April Ends Straders Begins

I was up on time and quickly downstairs to begin my morning routine. It was just after 530am. Wisely, I had everything I needed to get my eyes, stomach, and exercises out of the way without accessing the kitchen and waking Frankie. She likely heard me grunting halfway through my sit-ups and began to stir. However, I wouldn’t be deterred from my goal thus waited until my push-ups were in the bag before heading to the kitchen to free her from the pen. Happy to be free, she gave me lots of lovin’. I took her out after a few minutes of snuggling. She was good, doing both number #1 and 2. I sipped my first cup of coffee while sitting on the floor playing with Frankie. She eventually fell asleep on my lap. Trying hard to mesh my new world with the old, I used that time wisely. I did my meditation while she was sleeping on my lap. Effective and efficient use of time indeed! I handed her off to Mindy along with a cup of coffee then returned downstairs to stretch and ready for a run. It was in the mid 50’s under a clear sky, a lovely morning for a run. I ran four miles without incident. Trash pick-up had already been by to dump our garbage by the time I returned home. Mindy was starting breakfast and asked if I cared to fry my own eggs. Didn't know I had any??? Who knew? I agreed to do it. Soon Mindy was off to work, and I was off to the shower. The kids, Frankie, and I headed to the bus stop at 757am. I thought briefly about the driving the BM’er but didn’t. I was anxious to see if the check engine light was still on in the Trooper. Off to work. The check engine light was in fact still on but without any performance degradation. I didn’t worry too much about it, but did contemplate how I might proceed with plans to get a new vehicle sooner rather than later. I arrived at the work about ten minutes early. It was a challenging day work-wise, but I was careful to maintain an even keel in the face of adversity. Not only was the day busy, but I was on-call for the upcoming weekend too. That only added to the potential for stress. Barring any unforeseen issues, I planned on visiting Strader’s at lunch time to buy 4 hanging baskets for our backyard. However, before that, with my stomach already growling, I went ahead and ate the leftover pork chop I brought from home. Despite being inundated with to-do's, come 1245pm I managed to get away. Albeit brief, the time away at Strader’s would be like medicine. The crowd was larger than I anticipated, comprised mostly of older Arlington women filling their carts with flora. I had a plan and stuck with it. I bought four big, beautiful geranium baskets then four vinca vines as a complement. In addition, I bought 3 orange begonias and a 2 cubic foot bag of Miracle Grow potting soil. The entire cart load set me back $145. I wasn’t gone but about 45 minutes. I toyed with the idea of going elsewhere too but didn’t. Instead, I headed back to the office. By the way, the weather was superb – sunny and 70. I received an email from Bob I. indicating how nice it was on the golf course the evening before. I’ll bet. Wish I could’ve got out with them. The afternoon chugged along. I talked with Mindy late afternoon, but I had to keep the conversation brief as I was super busy. Quickly, she shared her intentions of going grocery shopping as soon as the kids left with their daddy. I hoped I could leave the office around 5pm, but before I knew it, it was 515pm. Everything in check, I headed out after packing up my laptop. I arrived home around 545pm. I was greeted by a sparkingly clean house. Almost forgot it was cleaning day. Thanks Rachel! Frankie was asleep in her pen and hardly acknowledged my presence. I headed back out after unpacking my gear to carry all of my plants around to the deck, although I stashed the more fragile vinca vines and begonias in the garage. The weekend forecast was calling for torrential rains both Saturday and Sunday with anywhere from 2 – 5 inches. I guess one could view that as a bright spot since I would be on-call anyway. Regardless, despite the ugly forecast and being on-call, I still hoped to get some of my flowers transplanted either Saturday or Sunday. I had plenty of time to play with Frankie after getting settled. I took her out back where she took care of business again. Good girl! Mindy got home while I was busy updating my blog. I helped her carry in groceries then the two of us walked down to Chrissy’s for a brief visit. Chrissy, Mindy, and Kenny’s mom were all gushing over baby shower gifts. Bored, I took to their sofa, put my feet up, and tried taking a brief nap. Hey, we’re neighbors! I got up around 705pm and said I was heading home. Mindy and Frankie followed. Mindy and I planned to head to Barley’s but promised to stop back down later, or after Barley's. We readied and left for Barley’s around 730pm. The bar had a crowd typical of a Friday evening. I had just been served my first beer, a Centennial IPA, when neighbors David & Becky showed up. Along with them was David’s mother, Celeste, whom I hadn’t met prior. Apparently Mindy had, however. She was very nice. Our favorite servers, Diedra and Beth, were both working, but also leaving for their long-planned cruise tomorrow morning. Mindy gifted each of them $25 (not a tip) to have as extra spending money. They take great care of us all year long. Mindy ordered food in a hurry. She went with the Southwestern Salad and I had a Cuban with bacon. Good eatin’! It was probably best, but there were no double IPA’s on tap. I had only three or four beers all evening long. We left for home around 1030pm. Mindy picked up the tab. She also drove. We took Frankie out then walked down to hang with the neighbors for a little while. I took only one beer. Kenny was home this time. His mom was busy in the kitchen baking some incredibly big and great smelling cookies. She offered us one but I declined citing a full belly and a cold beer. We stayed for no more than 30-45 minutes. And sometime close to 1130pm we headed home for bed.

Check Engine ... again

After waking at 525am, I decided to get up a few minutes early. I brushed my teeth, grabbed my running clothes, then headed downstairs. I woke Frankie as I went through my the early part of my routine- grabbing my exercise shoes, eye drops, and Prevacid. I could’ve kicked myself for not following through on my plan to place all of those things at the foot of the stairs before bed which I figured would allow me to complete my early routine a bit more transparently. As it was, I simply let her cry from her pen until my push-ups were in the bag. It had to be 545am when I finally let her out. She was excited to see me, anyone for that matter. I realize that. I sat with her calmly on the kitchen floor while she romped around. That lasted about five minutes before I decided to take her out. She took care of business quickly. I was proud of her. We headed back inside where I poured myself some coffee and tried to enjoy some peace and quiet. The truth is, I don’t get any quiet time until I drop coffee and the pug off to Mindy. Somewhat hurriedly, I checked the weather conditions and read the Daily OM. It was already 615am. Where had my morning gone? I spent the next 25 minutes meditating, stretching, and prepping for my run, not hitting the door until 640am. Ugh! I ran 4 miles with absolutely zero knee pain. – gone. And, if ever there was a morning when I half expected it, it would’ve been then – the morning after hitting 100 golf balls. Because of my somewhat late start, I was blessed with the sunrise from the very outset. Quite lovely. It was only 37 degrees at the time, but figured to reach 70 by mid-afternoon. The house was alive with activity upon my return. Jacob was outside with Frankie, and Mindy busy cooking breakfast. Bella was in one of her whiny moods. Jacob seized on the opportunity to tease her. Ouch! Mindy confirmed that Kenny was keeping Frankie again today and reminded the kids to bus home with Noah. She left at 730am. I was showered and was ready to go by 752am. I remembered that I said I’d take Rocky to a doctor’s appointment at 1pm, a commitment I made last Sunday. Honestly, I dreaded doing it. That meant leaving work no later than 1215pm, driving all the way to Lindsey’s, back to Hilliard for the appointment, back to Lindsey’s then back to Hilliard and work. In the end, a lot of driving to mask Lindsey’s inability to get her life together. The thought of it brings anger. I do it for the boys, not her. It’s not their fault. The kids were on the bus at their usual time. I handed Frankie off to Kenny then headed off to work. It was a gorgeous drive in. I was looking forward to the day’s lovely weather. I let my boss know that I had to leave for an appointment at 1215pm, and shared that I expected to be back around 130pm. We had a staff meeting that lasted about an hour, or until 11am. Lindsey phoned around 1145am to make sure I remembered. Yes. I left the office at 1215pm on the nose. There’s no quick and simple way to get to Kelly’s place from Hilliard. I took I-270 south to the Georgesville exit then cut across Clime Rd ultimately down Briggs Rd. I didn’t get there until 1245pm. Lindsey and boys were waiting out front. We were off. It dawned on me during the drive that I forgot to get the booster seats back from Mindy after last weekends Chiller trip. Oops! We headed back to Hilliard towards Dr Shultz’s office. Both boys asked if we could go to McDonald’s. I figured we could but didn’t fully commit. The cat stench that typically accompanies them where ever they go, was noticeably masked by heavy perfume. I didn’t say anything. We arrived at the doctor’s office right on time. Lindsey and Rocky headed in while Landon and I hung out outside in a nearby grassy area soaking up some of the warm spring sunshine. Landon had to pee so he and I walked over to Steak & Shake. Afterwards, we headed back to the car where we waited another 15 minutes or so. Lindsey & Rocky came out around 1:30pm. Lindsey had a prescription for Rocky. We headed over to the nearby Burger King where I bought the boys lunch. Lindsey wanted only a drink. Everybody happy we headed back to Kelly’s arriving around 2pm. I had already been gone from work for 1.75 hours. I decided to stop at home briefly to grab a couple monthly bills needing paid and perhaps some quick food. I was hungry. It was well past my typically lunch time. I decided to pay the bills from home rather than back at the office. Done. After a quick snack I was ready to head back to work. During the ten minutes that I was at home, a contractor for the county came by to assess my property value. Wanted to review it with me. I declined for needing to be busy with other things but offered freedom to roam my yard. I arrived back at work at 245pm. I’d been gone for 2.5 hours. I was a little stressed over being gone so long, especially on a golf night where I try to leave no later than 415pm. To that end, I didn’t feel right about bolting so early after being gone all afternoon. I decided that it was best for me to forego golf this week even though I really wanted to get out. I sent Bob I. and email indicating as much. My boss visited at 5pm. We chatted about the appointment. Shared that I should’ve left for golf, too. Also mentioned that he’d be off on Friday and would be deferring all of his escalations to me. Great!  I stayed busy until 530pm. I talked with Mindy well before via phone sharing that I wouldn’t be golfing and why. We agreed to make a Barley’s night of it since the kids were with Jimaken. On my drive home, I noticed that my Check Engine light was on again. Dammit! Are you frikin kiddin’ me? So far, no performance degradation, though. Still, I wasn’t the least bit amused. That’s it, I’m getting a new car. I am not gonna deal with anymore car troubles, especially repeat issues. I wasn’t happy about the dilemma, but at the same time, thankful to have the means to make it go away. I didn’t share my newest dilemma right away. Instead, I waited three minutes.  All Mindy could do was laugh. Me too. It’s crazy! We brushed up and headed to Barley’s. Janet was working the bar. Poured me a Centennial – Um good! Mindy went with a St Joan’s Revenge. We ordered food minutes later. Me buffalo chicken tenders, and Mindy their barb-q platter. Jill was sitting next to Mindy, a girl we met there a couple months ago. My buddy Doug showed up shortly after we placed our food order. We chatted with him for the duration of our visit. Always fun to hang out with the “do” side of Doomie.  Mie wasn’t in. She was working out at the gym. We stayed long enough for both Mindy & I to have second beers. Both of mine were regular IPA’s. Mindy’s were both of the high octane variety. I was done almost before Mindy started her second. I was fine to drive and did. I also picked up the check. We learned that our Friday server, Diedra has two pugs and absolutely loves ‘em. We headed for home just before 8pm. Mindy took a call from Jacob as we exited. The call was dropped. We assumed them already home waiting in the drive with their daddy. Yep, they were. I drug the trash can to the curb for tomorrow morning’s trash day before heading in. The kids were eager to see their puppy. I failed to mention that I contacted Teresa, the owner of the Clearwater Beach condo we stayed in July of ’08 earlier in the day. We booked it again for this summer. Having that booked, I was determined to secure our flights now too. To that end, I found ideal flights to and from on our desired dates and booked them. I’ll hold off on the car rental until it gets closer. Deals typically are for no more than 6 weeks out. Right now, the rates are through the roof. It felt good to have our summer family vacation booked. Mindy asked Bella to do her nightly reading with me. I listened while she read. Afterwards, both kids got showers. It was after 9pm in a hurry. At Mindy’s insistence, I went up to tuck in the kids at 940pm ahead of her. She was busy grading school papers. Bella threw a fit that I made her shut down the Disney Channel program she was watching. Jacob was watching the same show from his room. He didn’t pitch one though. In true Bella fashion, she cried to high heaven. And when her momma asked what was the matter, she chastised me for killing her show. Oh well! Mindy supported me, as expected. I didn’t want to be the first one up and the bad guy. I was forced. Bella went to sleep quickly. Mindy took Frankie out just before she and I headed to bed. Prior, Frankie laid on the sofa with me until 10pm in what’s become an every night thing. She loves to snuggle, something Ykraps never was into. Good night Sparky!

Range, Brats & Lawn

I was up on time and downstairs before 535am. Frankie immediately detected my presence and started crying for attention. Drats! I was disappointed in myself for not taking the time the night before to place all of my morning routine essentials somewhere out of her sight and convenient for me (I.E. my exercise shoes, eye drops, Prevacid). As a consequence, I had to endure her whining while I completed my sit-ups and push-ups. I’ve had to cut my PC time to almost nothing. Instead, I’m using that time to take Frankie outside a couple of times not wanting to risk an accident. I’m learning that she likes to frolic around and offer up some lovin’ for a few minutes before doing anything else. As I said, I took her twice. The first time she did nothing, the second time she pee’d. I had to balance coffee time & play time with Frankie. She needs the interaction. I’m repeatedly telling myself to be patient and help her establish a routine that both she and I can live with early mornings. I told Mindy the evening before that one solution is to put her pen in the basement. She didn’t seem to care too much for that idea. I delivered Mindy’s coffee as well as Frankie at 610am. They were delighted to see one another. I headed downstairs to peace and quiet where I somewhat hurriedly did a meditation and stretch routine. I dressed and left for a run at 635am. It was quite chilly. In fact, a coating of frost covered Mindy’s windshield. I wore hand covers but skipped the ears. I was fine. I ran four miles without as much as a peep from my knee. Fantastic! While running, I contemplated how I wanted my day to unfold. I planned to visit the driving range for lunch, then cut the lawn later that evening. All of that in addition to a good day at the office, of course.  I started Mindy’s Honda without being asked. We enjoyed breakfast as a family. Mindy bolted just after 730am and I headed to the shower. The kids and I headed for the bus stop with Frankie in tow. Once again, Kenny was staying home and happily agreed to keep her with Woody. Says it makes it easier with them both. We appreciate his kindness. Sooner or later, though, Frankie’s gonna have to go it alone. After the kids were off I headed back home for some last minute prep. Everything a go, I bolted for work. It was still quite chilly – only in the 40’s but under brilliant sunshine. The workday went about as well as one could expect. I left for the driving range around 115pm after getting stuck on a conference call prior. I decided to hit off the grass tees, thinking that would better simulate real golf conditions. Too, I planned to hit a lot of iron shots with crappy lies - out of divots if possible, again to simulate real golf conditions. It was pleasant enough – about 63 degrees and sunny. I got a jumbo bucket for a $1 more, once again figuring I’d leave what I couldn’t hit for someone else to enjoy. I mis-hit my first two swings but made solid contact with every club thereafter, and that included my 3 and 4 irons. I was happy. I took my time between shots too, trying to simulate a real golf shot versus practice drills. The end goal is transferring range results to the course. Part of golf is as much about good game management – club selection, proper alignment, address, and follow through. I hit many of my clubs as well as I ever have. I didn’t get out my 6-iron until I was warm. I hit most of those high, straight and long. Again, I was encouraged. I left about 20 balls for the guy next to me. Before leaving, I practiced putting. I was back at the office by 230pm. I ate my packed lunch, veggies and tuna. It was after 3pm when I finished my food. Where had the day gone? I talked with Mindy around 4pm. She was grilling brats for dinner after confirming that I didn’t feel like dining out. I shared my desire to cut the lawn. The grass is long and I’m on-call this coming weekend. The way I saw it, it was now or who knows when. She said she already assumed I might want to do that. I left work a few minutes early at 520pm, and was home by 540pm. The puppy was sound asleep in her pen/bed, apparently worn out from her day with brother Woody and Kenny. Too cute! Dinner was ready in a hurry. Again, we were having brats and potato salad. I ate two brats. One on a bun, the other without. I asked Mindy if she'd mind finishing clean-up duty so I could head out and start on the lawn. She agreed, but said afterwards she and Bella were taking Frankie to visit her mom. Gloria hadn’t yet met Frankie. Over the next 1.5 hours, I whacked, edged, mowed, and blowed. The lawn, especially the front, looked awesome when completed. I expected Mindy home sooner. I was able to get a shower and putter around the house some before she, Bella, and Frankie returned. They apparently stopped and Jodi & Larry’s house, too, introducing Frankie to her cousins. Somehow, Jacob talked his mom out of making him take a shower. The rest of the evening was spent readying for bed. Frankie and I napped on the sofa before Mindy woke us around 930pm to head up to bed.

Leftover Kabobs

I slept soundly netting just over 8 hours of sleep. So soundly, that I over slept by ten minutes, not waking until 540am. As a consequence, I felt somewhat hurried and allowed myself to become a little stressed. Add to that, I just knew that Franki would start her incessant whining once she caught wind of my presence. I tried my best to ignore her cries for attention as I worked through my early morning routine. Despite her cries, I didn’t free her from the pen until my push-ups were in the bag. She was yapping/barking like crazy! Using Monday’s results as my guide, I figured I’d let her have some water and food then wait ten minutes before taking her out. That back fired. She went immediately to the door and pee’d on the rug by the door. She wanted out but it was too late. While I was making my coffee I spotted her again only this time hunching over to poop.Just in the nick of time, I abandoned my coffee, scooped her up, and headed out the deck door. I was ill prepared for being outside. I was in just shorts and a tee shirt with the temperature below 40 degrees. Franki pooped in a hurry. I was proud of her for doing her business outdoors. When she’s done she lets you know. She tried to climb up my leg. Back inside she went right for food and water. Because of waking late, it was already time to wake Mindy. I carried coffee and Franki upstairs where I shared her antics with Mindy. She was very excited to see Mindy, even more so than me. Those two are bonding fast. I left Franki with Mindy and headed downstairs to meditate, stretch, then run. I was out the door by 635am. I felt great. OK, maybe a little stressed. But I still had a good run. I ran four miles without any problems at all. Not even the slightest twinge in my knee. The sky was clear overhead and it’s expected to remain that way through the week with rising temps – nearing 80 by Thursday. Mindy and the kids were dealing with breakfast and the dog upon my return. Mindy asked if her car needed started. I didn’t think so. No frost. We enjoyed breakfast time together all the while Franki chewed on Mindy’s slippers. Bella took her out again. She pee’d. After Mindy left for school, I headed upstairs for a shower. I was back downstairs and ready to go by 751am. Once again, Kenny agreed to keep Franki since he wasn’t working. Jacob carried the puppy to the bus stop. I told Kenny that I planned to visit the driving range at lunch. I handed over Franki as the bus pulled away. I started the dishwasher then headed off to work. It was 815am. I was very happy to have clear skies over head again. It was sunny, but slow to warm-up. It was still just 42 degrees during my short commute. Work was incredibly busy. The morning was gone in a jiffy. I probably could’ve escaped for a driving range date but after seeing that it was only 46 degrees helped persuade me otherwise. I decided to forego the range and work straight through. There was no shortage of issues requiring my attention. I tended to most of them. I ate my veggies and tuna around 130pm – a full 30 minutes earlier than is typical. Tasty! I must’ve talked with Mindy around 4pm, or just after she picked up Franki and then intercepted the kids. Said that everybody had a good day. We discussed dinner, agreeing to have leftover beef kabobs. Jacob would be at soccer practice, so it would be just the three of us. I stayed busy until my usual departure time of 530pm. It remained sunny but still on the cool side. It couldn’t have been warmer than 50. I tried phoning my mom on my drive home. She didn’t answer. I also tried to reach brother Tommy. No answer there either. I figure he and mom was somewhere sunny & warm on vacation? I arrived home just before 6pm. Mindy already had the beef kabobs in the oven warming. At my prompting, she made brown rice and leftover veggies as well. Franki was in her pen asleep in her bed, which fits nicely in the very back. Woody must’ve worn her out again. The beef kabobs were almost as good today as they were on Sunday. I dipped mine in A-1 sauce. Mindy dipped hers in the new, thick Worcestershire sauce. Bella didn’t want kabobs. Instead, she had a hot dog and fruit. After dinner clean-up, Bella bolted for Makayla’s to play. I toyed briefly with cutting the lawn but in the end opted not. Maybe Wednesday evening. The grass is getting long, especially out front. I did spread some grass seed over the same area that I over seeded a month ago and topped with Com-Til on Sunday afternoon. I’ll have that turf thick as thieves even if it kills me! After taking care of the simple lawn chore I headed back inside to spend some time updating my blog. I got caught up through Monday, and even added some photos, something I’ve been doing a poor job of lately. By the time I finished working on my blog it was after 8pm. I overheard Mindy talking with Bella about getting a shower. And since I was already heading up to get changed and brush my teeth, I started her shower. After the kids were tucked into bed I headed to the family room bent on watching some science-type TV. Although it gained my interest at the time, I can’t recall what I watched. But I do remember falling asleep not long into it. Mindy woke me up around 930pm and asked me if I wanted to head to bed. Yes, I did. I like getting 8 hours of sleep.

Stuffed Chops

I started to wonder if I’d ever fall asleep. I eventually did but lightly at best. I woke at 525am perhaps after maybe the best 45 minutes of sleep all night. I decided to get moving with my morning rather than risk another five minutes and have it turn into an hour. Surprisingly, despite the lack of quality sleep, I didn’t feel that bad or too tired. I knew that I hadn’t prepped any coffee the night before. So, after brushing my teeth, that was first on my agenda - even before eye drops. While prepping coffee, Frankie noticed my presence and started whining and yapping incessantly. For the time being I had to ignore her. I needed to do my calisthenics without worry of her. I realized then that my peaceful morning routine is likely to be turned upside down for a while. That won’t sit well with me. That’s my favorite time of the day. After eye drops, Prevacid, and sit-ups, I let Frankie out of her pen. She was crazy excited to see me, or any human form for that matter. I gave in and briefly stopped what I was doing and sat on the floor with her while she crawled all over me licking and biting. I took her out back to pee too. She went. I had to contend with her all the while whipping out 55 push-ups. That was a challenge! At 610am I prepped Mindy’s morning coffee. I carried her coffee and Frankie upstairs. Mindy was happily woken by Frankie. Jokingly, I shared that she had just stolen my morning peace. I returned downstairs to meditate, stretch, and ready for a run. I was ready to run before 630am. I headed out a little early. It was almost 60 degrees, but unfortunately, it was raining, too. I didn’t allow the rain to phase me at all. Actually, it felt pretty good and kept me cool. By mid run the rain was reduced to a light sprinkle. I ran four miles without my knee barking even once. That’s encouraging. The kids were both playing with the puppy and eager and willing to take her out on command. And that’s exactly what I wanted to see. So far, the puppy’s been pretty good about signaling her need to go out and the kids good about getting her out. We’ll definitely need to fine tune the morning thing, however. The puppy seems to have an affinity for Mindy’s black slippers. I suggested that she thinks it’s her all-black sister, Camilla. Mindy left for school and I prepped to head up for a shower. Left Bella on puppy patrol. Not sure what she did with her while I showered. Took her to her room I presume. We were ready for the bus stop a few minutes early. Jacob carried Frankie. She was scheduled to spend the day with Kenny & her brother, Woody. It was raining steadily. Bella and I both had umbrellas. We did our best to keep the puppy shielded from the rain. It was a rainy weekend and promised to be a rainy Monday, too. In fact, the day’s high temperature wasn’t expected to top 52 degrees. It had already dropped a few degrees since my run. We really needed the rain, though. After the kids were on the bus I handed Frankie off to Kenny. Judging by the weather, he didn’t expect to be doing much of anything. I headed home for some last minute prep then headed off for work. With my gas gauge near E, I had to make a fuel stop at Thornton’s. Took 18.5 gallons at $2.66 per. I was once again on my way to work by 815am. It was raining lightly through the brief commute and even as I walked into the building. I didn’t rush, however. I simply took the light spring rain in stride. The work day moved slow. As time moved forward I became increasingly tired, brought on, no doubt, from staring at my PC. I heard we had a very busy weekend at the office. Ugh! I’m on-call next weekend and not looking forward to it. In lieu of taking a formal lunch, I decided to close my door and take a short nap. The rest felt terrific no matter how short it was – probably 15 minutes. I woke refreshed. Otherwise, my day was intensely busy. The afternoon, especially. Not bringing mixed nuts to work for a mid-morning snack any longer, a practice I have followed for upwards of 8 or 9 years, leaves me extremely hungry come lunch. I stopped bringing nuts, by the way, thinking the salt bad for my sensitive tummy. For lunch, I ate all of my veggies then mixed a can of tuna with a can of chicken noodle soup. The combo was incredibly tasty. I didn’t hear from Mindy until I left work for home just after 540pm. She shared that she was baking stuffed pork chops and that my dad would be joining us. We didn’t talk all that long. I drove home in peace. My dad was already at the house when I arrived home, which was sometime just after 6pm. I was surprised that Frankie was asleep in her doggie bed. I guessed that she and Woody went at it all day long. She was tuckered. Dad shared that he leaves for Florida next Tuesday. That certainly came up fast. It wasn’t long before dinner was ready. At my prompting, Mindy broiled the stuffed chops for the last five minutes. That helped toughen the outer skin while leaving them tender and juicy inside. Bella doesn’t like pork chops. She asked for two hot dogs instead. The chops were delicious. We topped them off with pork gravy. Yummy! We weren’t finished with dinner for more than five minutes when Bella asked if she could go down and play with Makayla. Mindy made her finish her reading first. I didn’t have dessert, but others did – leftover Chiller birthday cake. It took a while to do clean-up in large part because the dishwasher was already full. I had to hand wash almost everything. I really meant to run it before leaving for work. Dad left for home around 730pm. I played with Frankie for a little while then went for my PJ’s. I then took to the family room floor lying flat on my back. That always feel really good, especially at day’s end. Mindy thought I’d fall asleep for sure, but it never happened. I helped tuck in the kids around 830pm then returned to the same spot. This time I did fall asleep with Frankie curled up next to me. Mindy called for me from the balcony. She was heading to bed. I asked that she come put the puppy to bed. I wanted to go for an early bedtime too. As expected, Frankie whined like crazy from her pen, but it lasted, at least to my ears, not too long at all. I’ll bet I was asleep by 930pm.

Com-Til & Beef Kabobs

I woke around 6am after a much better night of sleep than I got Friday. Thinking it much to early to get up on a weekend, I forced myself back to sleep. I woke again around 715am and popped out of bed eager to begin my day. Immediately noticeable was the blue sky. That helped my mood considerably after a gray, rainy Saturday. Franki was excited to have company. I left her in the pen while I prepped coffee, but fetched her soon after and took her outside to pee. Bella got up soon after to help take care of her. I played around online, among other things, catching up on the details of the NFL draft. Come 9am I readied and left for a run. For the time being, it was sunny and 55 degrees – really quite nice. The forecast called for temps nearing 70 but with afternoon thunderstorms possible. Like most Sundays, I ran three miles through the subdivision and out along Trabue & back down Hague. It looks like Modlich is selling the huge house he built some ten years ago on about 5 acres just south of my dad place. Wonder what he’s asking. I was back at home by 930am. I had no definitive plans for the day, or at least until Jacob’s late afternoon soccer game. Meanwhile, I stressed over missing out on getting Com-Til yesterday due to sleeping late. That’ll put me behind by an entire week. At that point I realized that it may make sense to pay more for it elsewhere and get it today (Sunday). I checked Ohio Mulch’s website to check their price. It’s $25 for a cubic yard, or about $8 more. But given that it’s 20 miles closer than the Com-Til plant and open on Sunday, that price seemed more than reasonable. I was determined to go get my Com-Til. Before notifying Mindy, I asked Jacob if he wanted to go along, perhaps stopping at Tim Horton’s for donuts along the way. He did. I let Mindy know that Jacob and I were heading out. We left Franki with her. Before leaving the house, I filled my air compressor tank with air just in case dad’s trailer tires needed some. After the debacle from two years ago, I always check the tire pressure before taking his trailer to fetch dirt, mulch, wood, or Com-Til. It dawned on me during our drive to dad’s that I didn’t bring a tarp to cover the Com-Til. I decided we’d forego it. It’s only a two mile drive. Ohio Mulch had just opened for business at 10am. We arrived just after. There were already a number of customers waiting, but we definitely beat the early rush. Must’ve been 5 or 6 customers pull up right after me. Just a load of Com-Til, please. We were out of there after less than 15 minutes. Cool. On to Tim Horton’s. Tim Horton’s had a line of 3 or 4 guests in front of us. It moved fast. We ordered a dozen donuts and 20 Timbits - $8.50. Jacob was excited that I let him pick most of the donuts. The way he saw it, at least four were just for him. We were home by 1040am. We hammered on the donuts right away. Mindy & I both opted for the chocolate walnut crunch. They were good. Later, during a break, I tried the chocolate frosted crème filled. I was disappointed. Not even close to being on par with that of the Der Dutchman. I headed out to start spreading Com-Til. Unfortunately, our sunny skies turned cloudy in a hurry. It looked like rain even. Just after I got started Mindy left for the grocery store. I filled my Deere trailer with a load and headed out to the Sparky flower bed, figuring I’d start with the furthest most point working my way towards the front. I didn’t get half of the first trailer load spread before it started to thunder & rain. Not wanting to take a chance with lightning, I headed inside, but not before throwing a tarp over the mother load of Com-Til out front in dad’s trailer. I used the time to add some pictures to my blog. The sun popped out after about 15-20 minutes. I headed back out. The radar was spotty. The forecast pretty much said to expect pop up showers all afternoon long. I could deal with that - forced breaks! I got all the rear beds covered in Com-Til pretty quickly. As expected, the sky alternated from sunny to cloudy numerous times, and I had to head in to avoid brief but heavy rain, lightning and thunder a couple more times. I was working hard to get all the Com-Til spread before Jacob’s soccer game. After topping off all the flower beds and trees, I used a trailer load as a topping for the sod I laid late last April. There’s a number of bare spots in that area. Still with quite a bit left, I hauled some to Kenny’s and covered his flower beds as too. While I was finishing up Mindy advised that it was time to go. Asked that I finish and meet her there. She also said she’d call if she got there and found the game was canceled. With spotty showers/storms all about town, it was hard to gauge. I tried my best to get the tools cleaned up and put away fast enough to make Jacob’s soccer game. Mindy called 15 minutes later to let me know that it was a go. Meanwhile, I was covered in Com-Til and still needed to hose out dad’s trailer. It would be an hour before I could be there. Mindy understood and gave me a hall pass. I wasn’t out of the shower long at all before Mindy & the kids got back from soccer. Jacob’s team lost again, 5-0 according to Jacob. Yikes! Mindy shared that she made plans to grill out with the neighbors. We’d be having beef kabobs. I placed a handful of the Great Lakes Pale Ales she bought me in the fridge and freezer so they would be nice and cold come dinner time. We headed to the neighbors around 530pm. The temperature dropped and the clouds thickened through the late afternoon. However, we wouldn’t let the less than desirable weather stop us. The pugs played (wrestled) for at least an hour. They were a lot of fun to watch going at it like brother and sister. Kenny grilled the meat to perfection – always does. Our kabobs were outstanding. Mindy had him grill all six of them. She said we’d eat the rest later in the week as leftovers. We had grocery store potato salad and blanched/grilled asparagus too. Everything was superb. Mindy suggested we head home around 730pm so the kids could get baths and be in bed at a reasonable hour for school Monday. Although, that 730pm curfew turned into 815pm when neighbor Kapil stopped over at K & C's for a brief visit. Mindy got the kids showers going as soon as we got home. Bella wanted a snack so I popped some popcorn. Franki was tuckered out after wrestling with her brother all evening. Chrissy and Mindy treat these pups like babies almost. Made plans to send Franki down to spend Monday with Kenny since he’ll be off work. I’m a fan of getting her used to real life sooner rather than later. All in our PJ's, we watched a program about missions to Mars, then a new program hosted by the infamous Stephen Hawkings about the possibility of alien life form somewhere in the universe. In a nut shell, his position was simply this: In an ever-expanding universe with at least 100 billion other galaxies out there, how could there not be? Sound rationale, I think. Somewhere along the line, I fell asleep. Big surprise. Mindy woke me for bed somewhere near 10pm. We put Frankie in her pen before heading up. She cried like nobody’s business, but only for a few minutes. Once in bed I couldn’t sleep. That happens every now and then. After laying there hopelessly for about an hour I gave up and got up. I played mindlessly on the PC for an hour hoping the sleepies would eventually come, but they never did. I headed back to bed hoping to force myself to sleep. It must’ve been almost 1am before I got my first real hint of sleep.

My Name is Franki

I had a tough time sleeping after about 600am, but luckily I was somehow able to force another two hours, which helped ward off any demons from a very raucous Friday night. I tried to remain somewhat quiet so not to wake the puppy, but she woke while I was busy making coffee. I left her there, however, and headed to the living room to start my exercise routine. While waiting for coffee, I took two more Advil and a Tagament. After push-ups I was feeling much better – almost normal. I caved and let the puppy out of her crate. She went right for water and food. Not a minute or two later, Bella got up and came down to deal with doggie duty. I was admittedly impressed with her sense of responsibility. Meanwhile, it had been threatening rain all morning long, but at least until then, we had somehow managed to stay dry. That didn’t last, however. By the time I started dressing for a run it started to rain, and fairly hard too. I waited a couple minutes before heading out. Good move. The rain slowed to a light drizzle and pretty much stayed that way for the duration. I ran four miles with no trouble. In fact, I felt really good. By the time I was back, everyone was up and about. Mindy asked if I was ready to share my list of puppy names. I printed it off to share with everyone. At the same time. Jacob was campaigning for Abby. That was a whole lot better than Daisy, but I still had a few others in mind. While sharing my list, I suggested we add Matilda, the name nephew Joe suggested. Mindy seemed to like three from my list right away: Juno, Isis, & Franki, the first two being references to ancient Greek/Roman goddesses of family and children. Franki is a reference to Frankenstein, the monster. All three fitting, I thought. Nobody cared for Tazor, Bone, or Henri. The kids didn’t like any of them initially, but at least I got them to agree to ponder them. I assured them that it would be a diplomatic process. Mindy eventually trimmed the list to two, Isis and Franki. The kids liked Franki a lot better than Isis. And before we knew it, both kids were calling our puppy pug Franki. Franki Isis is the name we eventually settled on. Mindy spotted Chrissy & Kenny, Mike & Julie out on the deck with their puppy pugs. She wanted to walk over and let Franki play and also share our pug’s new name while also picking up her purse, which she left there last night. While the three pugs played, we laughed about the concert, limo, and after party. Chrissy came out from the house with Mindy’ purse and her bra. Mindy seemed genuinely surprised to see her bra in Chrissy's possession. She took it off for all the guys last night. We hung out for about 30 minutes. During that time I fetched Mike & Julie some coffee and Advil. Kenny & Chrissy had to get their girls to soccer even while it threatened more rain. We headed home where we needed to get ready for Jacob’s birthday party at the Dublin Chiller. Mindy headed for a shower while I tidied up the kitchen. Kelly and Lindsey dropped off the boys around 1120am. Haven’t seen them since Easter, or for three weeks. Right away, I saw that Landon’s Mohawk was gone. I knew that would make Mindy happy. They both rushed upstairs to play with Jacob & Bella and our new puppy. Once Mindy was done in the bathroom, I got busy with a shower of my own. Felt really good. We were ready to head north by noon with the party set to start at 1230pm. It was a smooth drive up 270 and west on 33. We arrived at the Chiller a few minutes early. I failed to mention that Noah rode up with us. Deena dropped him off at our house while I was in the shower. I dropped everyone at the door and then parked the Honda. I had a little trouble finding everyone once inside. Finally, though, I found them in the reserved party room on the second floor. Deana (not neighbor) was our Chiller party host. She was friendly and helpful, explaining all the details of how the party might unfold. She emphasized that we were to have fun and leave the party organization and clean-up to her. Mindy forked over quite a bit of money. That made sense to me. After pizza, gifts, and cake, I was suddenly over come with the sleepies. I thought I might try and nap while every one went off to ice skate. Jimaken and I watched Mindy and all the kids hit the ice from above. My job was to guard Mindy’s purse and Jacob’s gifts. After I saw Kenny & Chrissy arrive and throw on ice skates I figured I should give it a go too. I carried Mindy’s purse and Jacob’s gifts to the Honda then joined everyone on the ice. I knew Mindy would appreciate it, if for no other reason, she’d have some help with Landon. But I hadn’t been on ice skates for ten years or more. Despite ten years off ice skates, I figured it would be like riding a bike. It wasn’t. I was like bambi. Not only that, but I worried about my knee too. The last thing I wanted to do was hurt myself ice skating and ruin my running and golf. I was very cautious. I took Landon for a while. He was actually doing pretty good after an hour or so on the ice. A few more times and I’m certain he’d have it down. Like Landon, I eventually got my ice legs, but nothing close to how I might’ve skated ten or more years ago. Now that I think about it, it was more like 13 or 14 years ago. Anyway, I couldn’t hockey stop or easily cross my legs through the turns like I could back then. I'll bet if I did it a time or two I’d get it down again. We skated until about 245pm even though Deana told us we could skate until 5pm. Most of Jacob’s friends were picked up by 230pm as stated on the party invite. We ended up adding yet another passenger for the drive home. Jacob brought another friend back home with us. Kenny and I discussed golfing later in the afternoon while skating. Told him I’d measure Mindy’s acceptance during the drive home. She was OK with me going provided I took the grandkids home first. That sounded fair, but not something I felt was right. I haven’t seen the boys for three weeks. I couldn’t tell them that they were going home so I could go golfing! Landon loves hanging out with us. The drive home left me overtly sleepy. Before doing anything, I needed a nap. I tried napping from the recliner but struggled to find restful sleep. The kids, meanwhile, were running through the house, all seven – eight of them. I asked Mindy to let Kenny know that I couldn’t golf. She agreed. Despite being unable to fully fall asleep, I laid around on the sofa for the rest of the late afternoon and early evening, finally getting up around 6pm to acknowledge my dad’s visit. He came by to see our new puppy and to see the great-grand kids. Landon talked me into pushing him in the baby tree swing. He loves that thing. The only problem is, he’s so darn pudgy that once he’s in, he’s in. It takes two people to get him back out.  We swung until it started to rain. Mindy told Lindsey we’d have the boys home around 7pm. To that end, we loaded up the Honda. Mindy talked about us doing dinner out after dropping the boys. Rocky said he was hungry and wanted Wendy’s. Mindy agreed to stop for them. We called Ashley to see if we could visit and see her new car and to show her our new puppy. We took Franki along for the ride. We offered to get Wendy’s for Olivia too, but as it turned out, they had just gotten back from there. We went through the drive-thru at the Westgate park Wendy’s, which is right around the corner from Ashley’s place. We could easily see her new car from there. While in the line we called Lindsey to let her know we were stopping by Ashley’s. Told her we'd be about 20 minutes. We offered to bring her some food too. She accepted. Olivia was excited to have visitors, all six of us, and 7 if you include Franki. Olivia wanted to hold our puppy, but what 3 year old wouldn’t? We didn’t stay long. Said hello to Steven who was upstairs for most of our visit. Seemed offended when we shared that Big Rocky cut away Landon’s Mohawk. Probably the only good thing he’s ever done for him.  Olivia was upset when I left. She thought I was staying the night. It was raining again. We quickly loaded into the Honda for Lindsey’s house. The kids ran into the house, barely saying goodbye to Mindy & I. Lindsey came out to see our puppy. We gave her the Wendy’s we picked up for her then split for home. Everybody was hungry accept for me. Bella was the only one from our house that got Wendy’s. Jacob held out for going to a restaurant. But none of us were up for dine in. I shared that Bella and I would simply go home while Mindy and Jacob were welcome to head back out to dinner. But by the time we got home, Mindy wasn’t in the mood for a sit down restaurant either. Her and Jacob left, but for where, we still weren’t sure. Bella and I took Franki out back. By the looks of it, it poured while we were gone. The street gutters swollen with run-off. Mindy & Jacob weren’t gone long. They returned with a bag full of Burger King. Mindy offered me her fountain Coke. I didn’t really want it, but graciously accepted it. But after one sip I asset it aside. It was terrible. Mindy tried it and came to the same conclusion. Bad! We made a lazy, uneventful night of it. Around 8pm we put in a DVD, Ice Age II. I enjoyed it enough for it to hold my loose interest. I drank two Jack & Cokes during the movie. At the movie’s conclusion we all headed for bed.

Party Like a Rock Star

I slept well waking only once unexpectedly after a strange, but now hard to remember dream. I woke again at 522am and decided to get up for good. I brushed my teeth then headed downstairs with running clothes firmly in hand. I doused my eyes with lubricating drops then quietly slipped off to the PC being careful not to wake the puppy. At the PC I spent just a few minutes catching up on the last pick of the NFL draft from last night. Afterwards, I turned my attention to the usual stuff: the day’s weather and the Daily OM. While pouring my coffee I must’ve been too noisy and woke the puppy. She started whining for attention. I resisted my fatherly instincts and left her whine from inside the pen hopefully making it clear that I don’t plan on being the primary care taker of the newest member to our family. I sipped some coffee then did my meditation early. I was finished by 610am. By then, the puppy had fallen back asleep. I made Mindy’s coffee then headed up to wake her. I let her know the puppy was up wanting/needing to go out. Said she’d tend to it after a shower. OK. I headed downstairs to stretch and dress for a run. The temperature was 44 degrees. I wore what I’ve worn every other day this week minus the ear covers. The puppy was up and whining for attention as I headed out the door. It had to be before 630am. I was well ahead of schedule. My knee felt excellent this morning. Not even the slightest twinge, not a twinge that is until about 2 miles into my run when I felt a few familiar pangs of discomfort. That said, I was still able to run the full four miles without cause for concern. Yesterday I spent several minutes online trying to align the pain I feel and timing of it with all the various knee ailments. None seemed identical to my situation. As expected, Mindy was up starting breakfast when I got back from my run. I moved our trashcan back to its place of rest after being dumped while I was off running. Jacob was outside with the puppy, something I was happy to see. Both kids need to share in the puppy care duty from jump. Mindy asked if I cared to fry my own eggs. Yes, I agreed to take over. She already had an English muffin in toaster just waiting to be pushed down. We planned to have Chrissy watch our puppy today while we’re all gone. She and Kenny were both off work for Tim McGraw day.  Mindy reminded me to carry the puppy to the bus stop. I was soon off to the shower where I flossed under my retainer but didn’t shave. I was ready to head out by 752am. The kids were downstairs playing with the puppy. Jacob, I believe, carried her out. Kenny was at the bus stop. He asked how golf went. Basically shared that I haven’t yet figured out how to translate range results to the course. He took the puppy. Said he may try and get out for some golf during the day. We’re expecting rain for 4 straight days starting tonight. However, for the time being, it was sunny and warm. I departed for work by 810am. We had a fairly busy morning at the office. My boss asked me to join a couple conference calls through the lunch hour, but unbeknownst to him, I had a scheduled follow-up eye exam that I just couldn’t miss. In the end, however, I was able to join the earlier call until 1pm when I had to leave for my appointment. It was a gorgeous afternoon with the temperature hovering around 70 degrees. I did my best to keep my eyes well lubricated all morning long to help facilitate good results with my eye exam. Dr Julie was waiting for me, called me back right away even though I was 10 minutes early. She looks like she could have that baby any day now. Said she feels good but is ready. She checked my eyes thoroughly. Right away she let me know that my vision was way better than just two weeks ago. Of course I already knew it. After all, I’m the one using the eyes.  Today’s results showed that I was getting very close to 20/20 in both eyes. Two weeks ago I was -.75 near sighted in both eyes but today only -.25 in my right and -.375 in my left, just as Dr Beran said would happen. What’s even better, my up close reading vision hasn’t slipped back as my distant vision continues to improve. Dr Julie was very excited with the positive results. Before leaving, we agreed to schedule another follow-up for early July, just after she returns from maternity leave. I had to remind JP, the optician, about my Oakley sunglasses. He was supposed to put the original sunglass lenses in my frames. AFter jolting his memory, he took care of it in less than five minutes. He handed me my transitional lenses wrapped in packing. Said they don’t recycle/donate without frames. I headed back to the office, but not before making a quick stop at CVS to pick-up a prescription for Mindy. The afternoon was much less eventful than the morning, although things did get a little bumpy just before quitting time. I needed to head out on time so not to hold up the Tim McGraw outing. To that end, I let the office at 530pm on the button. I arrived home at 545pm. Given my druthers, I would’ve taken a nap but I knew there wasn’t time. Joe & Jerry showed up around 550pm, or just about the time that Mindy headed up to ready for the show. The limo arrived at 6pm on the dot. The plan called for Mindy to take Chrissy’s kids as well as out own through the McDonald’s drive-thru in the limo then drop Chrissy’s kids off at their grandparents house. We had Kara coming over to watch Jacob & Bella. Kara called a little stressed. Said she’d be a few minutes late. No worries. Mindy hadn’t even left with the kids yet. Kara arrived just after Mindy and kids left. Joe & Jerry were out back on the deck. We killed time chatting while waiting on Mindy to return in the limo. We were expecting Chrissy’s sister, Missy and her husband, Guy too. Chrissy & Kenny, Mike & Julie were at Mitchell’s having dinner – all part of their pricey ticket package. We were heading there to pick ‘em up in the limo as soon as we could get rolling. This was my first time ever riding in a limousine. The Driver, Vinnie, was a very, very large man. The limo was actually old and not without a few mechanical problems. I definitely found humor in it. For one, Vinnie said he’d have to get under the hood to switch from heat to AC. Too, the inside bar rattled like the dickens as we made our way down the freeway towards downtown. Meanwhile, we were already hooting it up in the back drinking beer, wine and whisky. Chrissy phoned while we were in route wondering just where in the heck we were. She was getting antsy. We picked them up at Mitchell’s around 710pm. Next stop, Nationwide arena. My very first movie star-type arrival. We caught lots of glances as we exited the limo until a newer, shiny black limo pulled up right behind us. We snapped a few photos out front then headed in for the show. I worried that my ski flask full of Jack might be confiscated. It wasn’t. Didn’t check me. The warm-up act started as we gathered around the bar. I bought everyone’s first round after which we headed for our seats. We were in section 115, which provided an outstanding view of the stage – up just high enough to have a full view of everything yet close enough to see some facial detail. There were ten of us, but our seats were scattered. We sat with Missy & Guy. Joe & Jerry were close by but elsewhere. Chrissy & Kenny, Mike & Julie had “big money” seats down on the floor close to the big walkout stage. Personally, though, I thought our seats provided a better view. Without question, they were awesome. We drank through the entire show, paying premium prices for arena beer. I was drinking CBC Pale Ale. They were $7, I think. Guy was drinking the 24oz Bud Select in a can. They were a whopping $10 each. Mindy was drinking wine. Not sure what we paid for those. Tim McGraw put on a good show. Can tell he’s done this a time or two. The only song I knew was his final encore tune, Live Like you Were Dying. After the show the plan was to rendezvous by the bar, but somehow, many of us got separated after going potty. Not wanting to risk being left behind, I headed out towards the limo. Waiting, waiting, waiting. Finally, I spotted Chrissy wondering alone. Not long after, the others showed up. Everybody had a buzz, to be sure. After some banter, we piled back into the limo for the ride home. Mindy shared was hungry. To satisfy it, she phoned Barley's hoping to find the kitchen still open for business. The bar was open but the kitchen closed. Not to be defeated, she then phoned Minelli’s and ordered two extra-large pizzas for pick-up. Mindy guided Vinnie, our driver, to Minelli’s. In the meantime, everyone was hooting and hollering from the back of the limo. The beer and whisky was flying around, too. And unless I’m mistaken, a shirt came off as well. It wasn’t long before we arrived at Minelli’s on Wilson Rd. While Mindy went for the pizzas, others went for more beer at the drive-thru next door. We woofed the first pizza down in short order from inside the limo. We were home a minute or two later. We said our farewells to Vinnie then headed inside Chrissy’s for the after party. Neighbor’s Teri & Mike walked down to yuck it up with all of us. I believe that Mindy brought our puppy down to play with her brother, Woody. Suddenly, out of nowhere, while Joe and I sat admiring their rambunctious spirit, another neighbor, Alex came stomping in through the front door. He looked angry. I wasn’t immediately sure why. He walked right by Joe & I making a beeline for the deck, where Kenny, Mindy & others were gathered. Not a minute passed before he went stomping back through, again not exchanging pleasantries or saying anything to anyone. What was up his ass? I headed out to the deck to see what he might’ve said. I guess he complained to Kenny that everyone needed to quiet down. We were too loud and he couldn’t sleep. Hmm? Actually, we could’ve been way louder, and have been on many other occasions. On top of that, it was Friday night. Granted, it was somewhere around midnight, but hey. No one was too pleased with his request. At my prompting, Mindy headed out to fetch Dave & Becky’s for sale sign and then firmly planted it in Alex’s front yard. That brought many of us to our knees in laughter. However, even though he too thought it funny, Kenny thought better of it and headed out to remove it. The party started to break up after that, at least Mindy and I decided it time to head home. By then it had to be close to 1am. We gathered the puppy and walked home. Mindy asked where Joe & Jerry went. There were supposed to be spending the night. We figured them already asleep in the guest room. Nope. They were gone. Kara said Jerry came in and got his keys and left. She said she didn’t even see Joe. Hmm? Mindy was pissed. I was worried. We saw Kara off then headed to bed. Bella heard Mindy & I stirring climbing into bed and came to see us. While Mindy tucked Bella back into bed, I put drops in my eyes and then, for preventative measures, choked down 3 Advil.

New Dawg

I woke a few times during the night to the sound of Mindy getting up and out of bed. I knew that couldn't be good. I didn’t realize it at the time but apparently she was up getting sick. She knew going to bed that I planned on sleeping in. Come 630am I saw that she was still sleeping. I woke her asking if she was going to work. Said she was. I went back to sleep for a few more minutes but got up not ten minutes later. Mindy complained of feeling ill. Sounded horrible, but said it would be too difficult to miss work. I headed downstairs and started my workout. I delivered Mindy some coffee too. It dawned on me while sipping coffee that I needed to hurry and do my run, otherwise, Bella and Jacob might be home alone. It was almost 7am and Mindy typically leaves for work at 730am. I rushed through a stretch and then dressed somewhat hurriedly, too. I wasn’t out the door until 710am. By then, Mindy was downstairs. She realized that the kids might be alone for a few minutes. I asked that she advise Bella that I was out running when she woke her to prevent her from freaking out. She agreed. We weren’t expecting Jimaken until 745am. She could be alone for a few minutes. Out of necessity, I decided to trim my run to three miles, but even that I knew would be cutting it close. My knee felt a lot better but still barked a couple times. I got home around 740am. Jimaken’s car was in the drive, and Mindy already gone. Inside, both kids were up and playing with their daddy, Jacob dressed for a day at the office while Bella remained in her PJ’s. Jimaken and Jacob soon left. Bella shared that her momma told her I was out running. She said she wasn’t afraid and that Jimaken got there right after her momma left. Bella was in good spirits and was anxious for Lillian and Makayla to be coming down. We expected them around 8am. In the meantime, I was already logged into work and somewhat busy dealing with the same issue keeping me at work late the past two days. Bella asked if I would make crescent rolls. Of course. Unbeknownst to her, I put a "Jimmy" spin on the baking. For starters, I doubled them in size, making eight into just four. After baking, I painted them in butter then sprinkled sugar over top. They looked scrumptious! Bella agreed. It was now 830am but still no sign of Lilly & Makayla. They eventually arrived around 840am. They each enjoyed one of the special crescent rolls then headed outside to play jump rope. It was gorgeous, about 58 and sunny. I only asked that they not get dirty. After all, they were headed to school in a little over an hour. While the kids played outside I worked from my laptop. I noticed Kenny out back with the kids. I went out to chat. Keith was him, his brother-in-law, over to give me an estimate for sanding my deck. It’s something I would never thought to do on my own, but something Kenny recommends and did to his. Makes for a very smooth surface. I figured I’d see how much before deciding if it makes sense. I already plan to power wash and stain it later this spring. 10am came quickly. I hollered out back for the girls to get ready for the bus stop five minutes prior. They were quick to respond and we headed for the bus stop at 1000am sharp. Originally, I planned to already be showered, but I didn’t expect to be so fully engaged in work and so early. As it was, I was still in my running clothes after the school bus picked up the kids. I was quick back to the house and in the shower. I was ready to go by 1025am. Mindy phoned just before I left the house just to make sure all went well. Yes, of course. She sounded bad and said she planned on coming home at lunch time and going back to bed. I headed for work with my golf clubs and proper attire in tow. The first half of the day flew by. It was noon seemingly in the blink of an eye, definitely a byproduct from working at home all morning. I worked straight through my day. Mindy called sometime just before noon to let me know that she was home and crawling in bed. She still planned on receiving our new puppy after the kids left with Jimaken later that evening. She wanted it to be a surprise when they arrived home. I reminded her that I’d most likely be golfing but didn’t have the details of where or with who just then. I fired off an email to the Bob’s probably near 2pm. I heard back from Mr Imber in short order. He was out. Cited tendonitis in his arm. Plans to rest it. The other Bob didn’t show up for work. I called Tom C., Thursday being his day off. He was interested in golfing and agreed to call around for an opening. Called back a short time later to share that Dublin Golf Club could get us on at 430pm for 18 and a cart for $29. Wow, what deal! Haven’t played there but hear it’s a nice track. The only catch was that they would be teaming us up with another twosome unless we had a third or fourth. That wasn’t a bad thing, because I thought Kenny might want to play. I called him to measure his ability/interest. He couldn’t get away, committed to getting the kids off the school bus. He mentioned that he was holding our new puppy during the call. Said he tried calling Mindy but was unsuccessful. I shared that she was ill but still planned on getting it, but only after the kids left with their dad. I called Tom back to let him know that it would be just he & I. We both agreed the drive to Indian Springs would be worth the while – never a wait and a premium track. Agreed to meet there by 5pm. To that end, I made plans to leave the office at 410pm. But as often happens, my afternoon got incredibly busy. I felt under the gun, and for a moment thought I might have to call Tom back and cancel. Thankfully, though, I got things under enough control that I could comfortably bolt at 415pm. I called Mindy to let her know that golf was a go and to also check on her well being. She’d just woken up and reported feeling considerably better. Planned to run out to get puppy supplies once the kids were off with their daddy. She asked me if I wanted to discuss my concerns about having a new dog- the rules, etc.. No, not now. Later. I hate long drives. It’s the impatience in me. But I made a conscientious effort to try and enjoy the peace, scenery, and lovely weather. I must’ve been about 70 degrees. It’s a 27 mile drive to Indian Springs, most of it (20 miles) straight out Rt 161, a two lane highway. I arrived at 455pm. Tom was already there waiting on me for a change. Had our cart and green fees covered. Cool! Load ‘em up and go! Unfortunately, there was another twosome just teeing off, but no other golfers in sight. We opted to play the back nine first rather than wait. Hole #10, I hit a premo drive about 250 yards straight down the middle with a slight draw. I was happy. I was sitting at 155 yards. No time like now to get out the 6-iron and prove my demons behind me and finally display on the course what I fixed on the range. Unfortunately, I topped my 2nd shot slightly resulting in a weak line drive netting only about 90-100 yards. It went straight though. I wasn’t too worried. I still had work to do, however. I got out my trusty new 60 degree wedge and wacked it. Crap – weak left slice. What? NOOOOOOO! All I could do was shake my head. There’s no doubt that I felt uncomfortable over the ball. For some reason, my comfort on the range hasn’t yet translated to the course. Had a difficult shot to get it up and down already lying in three. I left myself a 15’ putt. Two putt for a double. Dang it! Next hole is a 150 yard par 3 over a giant frog pond. I hit two bad shots in the drink. Internally, I was beside myself. I had to hit number 5 from the drop zone. Ended up with 7. I know, horrible! The next hole is a fave of ours. To use Tom’s words, we both nutted our drives straight and long – right down the middle. I was pleased, Sadly, I hit my 3-wood poorly and ended up with a bogey. I joked that the bogey is my new par. We ended up playing 15 or 16 holes before giving way to the sinking sun. My driving was good, but my iron play and putting, very poor. You might guess that I’d be deflated, but I wasn’t. I know that I’ll get it back on track here soon. It’s apparently just gonna take a little longer than I had hoped. The one positive was that I had a handful of decent iron shots mixed in with the bad. I couldn’t say that last week. We didn’t finish until something like 810pm. And I tried phoning Mindy before driving off but she didn’t answer. Last time we played Indian Springs it was a week after my LASIK. I struggled driving against the oncoming headlights that evening. Thursday was a different story. My eyesight was far, far better. I was very happy about that. It turned out being 31 miles from the lot to my driveway, and it took about 38 minutes. Bella greeted me in the foyer eager to introduce me to our new puppy, Daisy? Oh no, this is the very name I absolutely refused to accept for any dog living in my house. Mindy & I already had that discussion. I was a little disappointed that she went ahead and shared that moniker with the kids. More importantly, I was ravenously hungry, and went for something that I could eat right now. I grabbed the potato chips & dip and began snacking away. Not sure what it is about golf that makes me so doggone hungry for carbs but it happens every time. After devouring nearly the entire bag of chips, I decided I needed something of greater substance. I nuked a hot dog. It was good, but I was still hungry. Next up, a bowl of Fruit Loops. They hit the spot, too. I reminded Jacob that the NFL draft was underway. He turned the TV on and to ESPN. The kids were very excited to have their new puppy. Bella pulled me aside and shared that we could give it back if it didn’t work out. I found her sincerity very endearing. I hadn’t spent anytime with her yet, the puppy that is. And by the way, she’s even smaller than Woody. Mindy bought a new bed, bowls, food, and a collar. The bed is very small, but then again, so is the puppy. The kids got to stay up until about 930pm or the 22nd pick in the draft. The Vikings weren’t slated to pick until #30, a byproduct of a season that ended seconds from a Super Bowl birth. Ouch! Still hurts a little. After tucking in the kids I iced my knee and sat on the family room floor watching more of the draft and determined to stay up for the Vikings pick. Mindy headed for bed around 1015pm after putting the puppy, along with its bed, in Sparky’s old pen. It didn’t take long for her to start whining and crying. After all, this is all new to her. After ten minutes, I caved and got her out and placed on my lap. She played some but seemed more interested in sleep. Her crying, by the way, sounds more like two dogs instead of one. It’s hard to describe other than saying I can hear two distinct noises being produced simultaneously. Freaky! So, getting back to the draft and the Vikings, after the long wait – until 1045pm – they traded their pick to the Lion’s. I was disappointed only because I stayed up waiting. However, I thought trading was a sound move. After seeing the Colts pick at #31, I put the puppy back in the pen and headed for bed. Good night moon.

Pilgramage to Strader's

It was just after 530am when I rolled out of bed. I was unusually stiff, a likely byproduct of hitting 120 golf balls the day before. I doused my eyes in drops and topped off my water cup then started my sit-ups. After sit-ups I sat in front of the PC long enough to check the current weather conditions and glance at a few headlines, not much more. I completed 53 push-ups then poured some coffee. I sipped it quickly before heading up to wake Mindy. She asked to be woken early, but never qualified by how much. I decided to wake her five minutes sooner than normal or at 605am. I moved through meditation and stretching swiftly but not before getting the full benefit of both. I was ready for my run even before 630am. It was 39 degrees so I dressed warmly. Even after icing my knee the night before, it barked at me more than usual. There’s little doubt that my golf swing puts undue torque on my leading knee. I ran four miles despite the minor discomfort under yet another lovely sunrise. Mindy had the front door unlocked & open for my reentry. Both kids were downstairs and in much better moods, and both were dressed in shorts. Jacob poked a little fun at Bella, but quickly stopped after Mindy lit him up. The kids asked if me and my brothers ever fought. Ah, yeah, all the time. Mindy said she and Todd did but typically not in the morning. Hmm? I quickly scrawled out a check to Paul P. for the backflow meter inspection and had Bella run it out to the mailbox. She likes doing it, putting up the flag and all. Mindy ate yogurt while Jacob and I ate scrambled eggs. Mindy hurried off to work while the kids and I finished up our breakfasts. I was off to the shower by 735am. I was ready quicker than usual, back downstairs by 751am. Didn’t shave. That must’ve been it. We headed out by 757am with Jacob out much sooner than Bella and I. The kids gushed over Woody again this morning. Give it another week. Chrissy and I chatted briefly after the bus left with the kids. She’s counting down to Friday’s Tim McGraw concert, which we’ll be attending along with her and Kenny. Said the pug thing should be resolved by Friday. My thoughts? Come what may. I left for work at 813am. Another gorgeous drive into the office. I always enjoy the walk from my car to the building. Lots of birds, flowering trees and greenery to admire. We had our usual Wednesday staff meeting but there wasn’t a lot to discuss. I guess you’ll have that on occasion. I planned to take my lunch at 1pm. Big surprise! I drove to Strader’s on Riverside just five minutes up the road. I make this visit every spring – a tradition of sorts. I browse the flora taking in the colors and smells not planning to buy a thing. It’s during this visit that I get my creative landscape juices flowing. Not to mention the fact that it naturally elevates my mood. The visit didn’t disappoint. I must’ve spent a good 40 minutes walking around getting ideas. The years go faster and faster. Seems like I was just there buying my annuals. After leaving Strader’s I drove east to my bank’s drive-thru to get some cash for the first time in many months – come to think of it, even before Xmas I think. I want to pay Chrissy in cash for the Tim McGraw tickets. It was almost 2pm and my stomach was growling. I knew I had veggies and tuna back at my office but the lure of the nearby Wendy’s was too hard to overcome. I went through the drive-thru and ordered a single combo meal. I ate the fries and sipped the Coke during my drive back to the office. I saved the burger until I was back in my office. Due to a meeting with one of my engineer’s I missed a call from Mindy just before 2pm. Finding it odd for her to call at that hour, I tried redialing her, but the call went to VM. Hmm? She called me back at some point, and I’m guessing it was after school let out. Among other things, she indicated that we would in fact be getting Woody’s sister, but not until Thursday evening. She also mentioned that her teacher pal, Karianne along with her 4-month old son, Garrett would be joining us for dinner. Hopefully, he doesn’t eat much!  She’d be grilling burgers. I ended up working late again stuck on another customer call until 630pm. Before leaving work I reminded my boss that I’d be working from home the following morning due to the kids’ scheduled late start. I arrived home around 645pm. By then diner was ready. They were waiting on me. I hadn’t seen Garrett since a couple days after he was born. He looks exactly like his momma – no denying it. Come to think of it, I hadn’t seen Kari since then either. She still the same chatty thing. She talks faster than anyone I know. Her and Mindy together are a gossip fest. I interjected a couple of times just to stay engaged and show interest. After dinner we had some of Jacob’s leftover ice cream cake. Yummy! After clean-up, I went to the family room floor for a nap. I had that familiar knot in my shoulder and neck. Again, hitting 120 golf balls the day before the likely culprit. I laid flat on my back. That felt best. Soon, I drifted off to sleep without even realizing it. Next thing I knew, the house was empty and quiet. Mindy came in seconds after I woke, but was quickly off once again, to the neighbors I presumed. Karianne called while Mindy was away to make sure and thank us for dinner. Said she forgot to. Kiddingly, I gave her hell for not saying goodbye. Said I was sleeping. The kids came in a short time later somewhat traumatized after Kenny and Chrissy’s kids told them they weren’t getting the pug. Mindy would only say that last she heard was that it was still up in the air. After the kids readied for bed we spent some family time together downstairs. At the same time, I iced my troubled knee and sipped a rum, Fresca, and grapefruit juice. I was excited about the prospect of sleeping in a little bit come morning since I’d be manning tomorrow’s late start. Mindy reminded me that Jacob still had to be up at his usual time. He was planning to attend “Take Your Kid to Work Day” with Jimaken. Jimaken was picking him up at 745am. Bella could sleep in, though. Mindy and I headed to bed shortly after 10pm.

Range of Emotion

I slept about ten minutes late but woke feeling totally revitalized after 8+ hours of sleep. After dousing my eyes with drops I started into my exercise routine. I had both sit-ups and push-ups behind me by 555am. I spent very little time on the PC primarily getting the current temp and day’s forecast. Currently 42 degrees with sunshine. 66 degrees on tap for later. I also sifted through Glenn’s blog curious if he received a FT job offer from MHCC. Apparently not. My hunch must’ve been incorrect. I delivered Mindy’s coffee then proceeded to mediate and stretch. I wasted little time completing both ahead of 630am. In fact, I was dressed and ready for my run by 632am. I wore a lighter wicking shirt under a fleece but still wore hand and ear covers. With temperatures below about 46, I will almost always wear hand and ear covers these days. It’s hard for me to imagine the years I went without both all winter. Crazy! And to think, I never once got sick. I ran four miles and could tell that I iced my knee the night before. Just the slightest hint of discomfort once or twice. I finished my run by 707am and was back in time to fry my own eggs. The kids were arguing with Mindy about her refusing to let them wear shorts. She snapped at ‘em both, which is rare. Brought back memories of my mom hollering at us as kids. Didn’t like it one bit. Once the kids and I were sitting together eating I jokingly whispered that we’d talk about it more once Mindy departed. I said it knowing that Bella would almost certainly snitch, and she didn’t disappoint. She immediately told her mom what I said. Mindy wasn’t pleased. I quickly shared that I was joking. Mindy was off to work. Mindy’s rule is 70 degrees before shorts are even an option. I think it’s a decent rule, but have privately countered many times past that as long as they’re wearing a jacket to help ward off the morning chill it’s really no big deal. After all, girls wear skirts all year long. I think it‘s safe to say, Mindy doesn’t buy that logic. Not sure why. Perhaps ego? Off to the shower. I was ready to go ahead of 755am. As always, Jacob was first out the door. I opened the garage overhead and carried my golf clubs to the Trooper. I planned to visit the range during lunch. Practice, practice, practice! Chrissy’s girls had the puppy at the bus stop again. Much more aggressive and curious today. Cute, too. Our kids naturally gush over the puppy. But that’ll fade in less than two weeks. Just watch! I tidied up the kitchen before heading off to work. It was 812am when I headed out the door. It was a lovely drive in and an even lovelier walk into the building. Spring abounds! The boss was out ill but figured to be working from home later in the afternoon. That left my plate fuller than normal. I had a busy morning. And in what has become a rare occurrence, I went for a cup of coffee around 10am. It went down easy. I was determined to head to the driving range at lunch keeping a commitment to myself to practice. How else does one become better at anything? To that end, I left the office around 1pm destined for Able’s Golf Center. The weather was lovely. I expected it to feel chillier. I was wearing a button down shirt with a black t-shirt underneath, which I promptly removed upon arrival. That enabled me to swing my clubs more freely. I paid for a jumbo bucket (110-120 balls) figuring I’d leave what I didn’t hit for someone else. It’s only a $1 more for a jumbo. I started out with my sand and 60 degree wedge. I hit them well. My reinvented swing was already feeling more comfortable and natural. Slowly but surely I progressed through my irons going 9, 7, 5, & 3. I hit all of them way better than last Friday with no sign of the problem that nearly brought my game to its knees. Those clubs aside, I knew I needed to hit my 6-iron well to gain back my confidence. I worked my way to it after hitting a few more with my 60 degree. I hit my 6-iron well - long and straight and with little effort, which is exactly what I needed. I eventually hit the iron’s I skipped earlier too, the 4 & 8. I didn’t hit my 3 & 4 perfectly by any means but far better than I have in the past 8 months. I probably hit my 60 degree the most, however, working on accuracy and feel from 55 yards out. I left a number of balls within 3 feet of the pin. I hit the last 5 or 6 with my driver with only marginal results, but by then I had already hit 110 balls. My arms were like spaghetti. Before leaving, I went over to the putting green to practice putting. After all, most stokes are racked up from on and around the green. I must’ve putted for 15 minutes. I would’ve worked on my sand game but there was an older gentleman in the trap getting a lesson. I was gone from the office for about 75 minutes. I felt really good about my practice. My swing seems to be coming around. I plan to keep practicing so I can continue to enjoy the sport I love to play. I ate my packed lunch, veggies and tuna, from my desk once back at the office. I was really hungry. The afternoon got dicey. I was on a customer conference call until 555pm. I left the office exhausted. I missed a call from Mindy. I called her back to let her know I was running late. It was a beautiful evening, about 66 and sunny. I made really good time getting home. It was 610pm. No Mindy or Bella. I assumed them at the neighbors. The Honda was there. Jacob, I already knew, was at soccer practice. I rushed through my usual chores, making coffee and placing my lunch dishes in the dishwasher. Mindy & Bella came in the back door from Teri & Mike’s. Mindy started heating up leftover pizza for Bella and got out the leftover strip steak for me. She was gonna have cereal. My steak was better than I expected. I doused it in A1 sauce. Delicious! After dinner clean-up was a snap. All paper plates! I decided last second to fire up the irrigation system so I could start watering the lawn. It would be a shame to let it dry out after such and early lush spring. I ran each zone manually long enough to watch each sprinkler head pop up and deliver water. Every zone worked flawlessly save for zone six. Three of the small pop-up heads in zone six needed my assistance popping up after being buried all winter. It didn’t take much help, however. In fact, one of the three eventually popped up on its own. All good. I was very pleased. Mindy was puppy sitting for Chrissy while she went after Jake at karate practice. Woody is a hoot! Neighbors Dave & Becky saw us out there with the puppy and came to see him. We ended up hanging out in their backyard for an hour or more. When Jake got home we threw the football while Mindy, Chrissy, and Becky chatted. Soon, Jacob arrived home from soccer and Kenny emerged from a shower. Kenny said there’s a good chance we may be getting Woody’s sister. Should know by Friday. My position is one of passivity. We headed in the house around 815pm. Mindy made Jacob shower while Bella received a free pass. Jacob stunk after soccer practice. Bella asked me to pop some popcorn. I did. I wanted some too. In fact, I popped two bags. I tied an ice pack to my knee for the rest of the evening, even after the kids headed to bed. I tucked both into bed just before 9pm. After returning to the sofa, big surprise, I fell asleep until approximately 930pm when Mindy woke me for bed. My knee was numb from the ice pack.

Purple Sage

I was up at 530am without any trouble. Before starting my exercises I refilled my water glass, took my Prevacid, and doused my eyes with lubricating drops. On the PC I checked the weather. It was only 34 degrees under clear skies. I took notice and planned to dress accordingly for my run later. By the time I had finished my push-ups and a half cup of coffee it was 605am. I decided to go ahead and meditate before waking Mindy all while knowing that would put me about five minutes in front of her typical wake time. I rationalized it by saying that she often lays there at least another five minutes anyway. I headed up to wake Mindy at 615am with coffee in hand. As expected, she didn’t fret one bit. Back downstairs I had only to stretch then dress for my run. I wore a thick winter wicking shirt, fleece, hand and ear covers. Attire more suited for 20 degrees or below, but considering that I am no longer used to winter-type chill, I didn’t want to risk being too cold. And as it turned out, I was perfectly comfortable for the run’s duration. I ran four miles with just an occasional twinge in my right knee, but nothing too concerning. Mindy was preparing breakfast at reentry. I fetched her keys and went to warm the frosted-over Honda. Haven’t had to do that in quite a while. Mindy shared that she was making scrambled eggs and wanted to know if I still wanted an English muffin. Yes. Bella woke tired and crabby. Whined at the breakfast table about everything. Mindy assured both kids that they’d be going to bed early Monday night. Mindy barked at me for teasing Bella. What can I say, low hanging fruit! Mindy scooted off to work at 730am and after remind the kids to ride Noah’s bus home. As usual, the kids were less needy after Mindy departed. It must have something to do with the roles we play. I quickly headed off to the shower. I floss everyday, but for the last couple of years, not under my retainer. But I have a dental appointment coming up in a couple of weeks and I want to avoid being chastised for not doing so. So, for the last four or five days, I’ve been taking the time to do it. Felt good. It was 755am on the nose when I made my way downstairs. Jacob was just heading out. As always, Bella waited for me. Chrissy and the girls were already at the bus stop and had Woody in tow, too. Kenny’s taking him in for his first shots late in the morning. Ouch! Off to work after some kitchen clean-up. Work wasn’t too bad at all. Had an impromptu meeting with my boss and peer that lasted about an hour, otherwise, it was business as usual. I headed to Home Depot and Lowe’s during lunch. I was hoping to find some healthy looking Midnight Purple sage. I saw some at Lowes last week. Home Depot didn’t have any. I didn’t hang out long, although I did buy two 18v replacement bulbs for my rechargeable flashlight. You knmow, the one I dropped Saturday during the dryer vent cleaning project. They were pricier than I expected – two for $10. I headed down the road a mile to Lowes. Overall, I’d say Lowe’s nursery stock is generally superior to HD both in quantity and quality. They had about a dozen mid-sized purple sage plants. I picked the three nicest, fullest. While there, I also picked up two Dianthus. They were all $5.99 each. I was back to work by 220pm. The afternoon sunshine left it feeling warmer than it really was. It was only 66 degrees, but gorgeous. The rest of the work day went by swiftly. It was soon time to head home. I called Mindy just before leaving work. She was browning ground beef for tacos, although started out believing she’d be making stuffed peppers. She shared that my dad would be joining us for dinner. I passed dad on my way home. He pulled up at the house right behind me. Dad spent his day at Buckeye lake test driving his boat with its new motor – one more suited to his age (requires much less manual intervention). Said it was chilly but nice out on the water. Liked the boats performance. While chatting, I replaced the bulb in my flashlight. Bulbs fit/worked. Good. Soon dinner was served. Everyone made their own burrito/tacos. I made two, a regular taco and burrito. I was stuffed after eating both. Mindy insisted we have some of Jacob’s ice cream birthday cake after dinner. She twisted my arm. It was good. I suggested both Mindy & dad follow me outdoors where I intended to plant the five perennials I bought earlier. I didn’t really have the energy initially but the fatigue quickly faded and I got all five planted. Dad left for home around 730pm while I was in the middle of the planting, which I might add, might be the earliest planting I’ve done. I watered them in before heading inside. I tinkered with the idea of firing up the irrigation system but once again didn’t. I was tired and ready to relax. Inside, I helped get the kids ready for showers. Bella was insulted by her mother, for what I can’t readily recall. She wanted only me to assist with the shower. Once I had her shower underway I headed back downstairs where I started icing my knee. Mindy had Bella do her daily reading with me prior to tuck in. The reading went fast. After tuck in I iced my knee until bedtime. I fell asleep on the sofa with the ice pack tied loosely to my knee. I woke around 940pm to go to bed.

Jacob gets Rich

I was up at 730am after a solid 8 hours of rest. Meanwhile, outside it looked to be another gorgeous but chilly spring day. It was 30 something but sunny. It was Sunday so I didn’t do any sit-ups or push-ups. Instead, I sipped coffee and updated my blog. After updating my blog, I searched for the perfect photo to put in our new frame for the kitchen eating area. After lots of scrutiny, I selected a picture that I took on Xmas eve 2004, the day after a huge snow storm that left a coating of ice on all the trees. It’s a photo of the sun rising through ice covered trees with a snowy backdrop. One of my all time faves. I had it framed & hung before 930am. Time to switch gears and ready for a run. I did my usual stretch then put on some fresh running clothes and headed out the door. I wore my new sunglasses too. I knew heading out the door that I’d only be running three miles. I took the typical Sunday route out of the subdivision and onto Trabue and eventually down Hague. I picked up a Nike golf ball, no doubt a seriously errant drive hit off tee #1 at Raymond. It was a good run on a gorgeous morning. I was home well before Mindy was up. It had been a really long time since I whipped up a big ‘ol breakfast. I was determined to do so today. I started making cheese omelets, steak, and potato cakes. Mindy finally got up while I was in the middle of cooking – good timing. She started putting up new window clings while I put the finishing touches on our breakfast. It looked yummy! Mindy thought so too. I pointed out the newly hung photo to which Mindy gave a very favorable nod. Great! I was worried that she might not like it. After cleaning up breakfast Mindy & I walked down to see the neighbor’s new puppy, Woody, a six week old pug. He’s cute and tiny. Not much bigger than a Guinea pig. Back home, I readied for some lawn work. I was determined to get as much of the lawn work done as I could before leaving for Jacob’s soccer game. I whacked and edged first. While edging, Jimaken pulled up with the kids. Confused at first, I later remembered Mindy saying something about him bringing Bella home early then taking Jacob to have soccer pictures taken. OK. I noticed an abundant number of dandelions sprouting up in our front lawn, especially in the new grass. I also noticed several areas beginning to show signs of stress from lack of rain. We haven’t had any appreciable rain fall for coming up on two weeks now. Rare for April. Not only that, but there wasn’t any in the immediate forecast either. I got the entire lawn cut, but lost track of the time while doing so. Mindy alerted me that is was 1245pm when I was just finishing up blowing off the drive and walks. She figured I could shower in 5 minutes. Crap! No way. I still had to secure the shed and garage, too. I did a simple clean-up/brush-up and changed shoes. I’d have to shower later. Off to soccer. We arrived at Jacob’s soccer game late – about 110pm. My dad called while in route. He was meeting us there but was lost. Wasn’t sure where the game was taking place. Mindy guided him in. He showed up about 5-10 minutes after us. As good as Jacob’s team looked last week, they looked almost that bad this week. Not sure if the other team was that much better or if we were simply off. We got beat soundly, something like 5-2. Jimaken shared that this was the best team in the league last year. All of their kids were big and athletic too. Jacob kicked his shoe off three times during the game. I wanted to say something to him but decided it wasn’t my place. The game was over by 210pm. Dad declined our invitation to join us later at the house while we celebrated Jacob’s birthday along with most of Mindy’s family. We planned to have pizza & cake. We stopped at the Silverhorn Kroger on our way home so I could pick-up some beer. Mindy wanted to pick-up a veggie tray too. I bought a 6-pack of CBC Summer Teeth lager & Great Lakes Burning River pale ale. And even though we have oodles of candy at home, I bought Bella a Musketeer bar. Jacob got some spicy hot Dorito’s. Mindy went back in to get a large bag of ice. Homeward! We had discussed arranging for the grandchildren to come over but decided against it with so little time to prepare for our other guests. Back at home, I prepped a cooler for beer and another for water and kiddie drink boxes. Mindy asked that I set up the corn hole boards too. I got out a football and Frisbee as well. While I was busy outdoors, Mindy was busy hanging party streamers and balloons inside. Bella was helping her momma. Before heading in for a much needed shower, I drug out the sprinkler and started watering some of the drier areas of the front lawn. I know I could’ve turned on the irrigation system, but that would’ve required a lot more time to inspect all the sprinkler heads. Maybe next weekend. I left the hose & sprinkler run while I showered. After my shower I moved the sprinkler a couple times addressing a couple other areas prone to drying out. It was approaching 4pm. We were expecting guests to arrive at 430pm. Mindy’s mom arrived early. Jacob went out to help her carry in her wares. What a nice grandson! After a few more minutes of watering along the curb, I moved the sprinkler to the middle yard to avoid sprinkling any more arriving guests. Jody pulled up at the same time. I helped her carry in a few things. Soon others arrived, including Jimaken and his parents. We invited our neighbors, Chrissy, Kenny & family, too. They brought Woody along. And as you might imagine, he was a big hit with everyone. Mindy ordered the pizzas to arrive around 530pm. To my knowledge, they arrived near then. Some gathered on the deck while others congregated in the kitchen. The weather was warm in the direct sunshine but still quite cool when it would slip behind the occasional cluster of clouds. I ended up sucking down three or four beers through the evening. Mindy bought two bottles of wine for the occasion. That went over well with many of our guests. Jacob opened gifts out on the deck. He made out like a bandit. Lots of cash and a bag full of new clothes. Ice cream cake was served inside soon after. I’m guessing folks started departing around 7pm. We started clean-up immediately. Eventually, Jacob and I headed out to hit some golf balls. I was anxious to see what he could do with his new clubs. Kenny helped Jacob with his swing. We hit balls until dusk then played a game of corn hole, Jacob’s request. I beat him 21 – 01. Mindy had the kids get showers sometime after 830pm. And it was almost 930 when we finally got them to bed. I plopped down on the sofa and iced my knee, eventually falling asleep. I woke around 1020pm and headed directly for bed.