Hoppy & Hoptopus

I woke near 530a only to realize that it was Saturday. Boy was I ever happy for that, especially given that I didn’t feel too well. I fell back asleep for another hour or so getting up for keeps at 645am. Mindy might’ve woken briefly as I slipped out of the bedroom and headed for the downstairs.

I started some coffee and took a few Advil. I decided to skip calisthenics to give my neck and shoulders some additional rest. I laid down on the sofa with Eiknarf until 730a. We got up and headed out for a walk a few minutes later. The weather wasn’t as nice as I hoped. Skies were partly to mostly cloudy. It was supposed to be sunny. The temperature was around 50 degrees.

I played around online and did some writing in my blog until 9a or so. By then it was time to get in my run. I headed out a few minutes later. Mindy was still upstairs asleep. I ran the 3 miles easily. Can’t recall for sure, but I think Mindy was already up when I got back home. It was between 930-10am. I had a lot I wanted to accomplish before leaving for Janet’s wedding, which was slated for 230p in Grove City. I made two slices of cinnamon bread with peanut butter and woofed them down in a hurry. Mindy was fooling with her laptop. Lost its internet connection. I asked if she needed my help before heading out.  I told her that I loved her too.

I went to the shed first, and gathered the things I’d need not only to plant the two new burning bushes, but also to remove the two dead root balls. I planned to haul the new ones to the site with my tractor and trailer, but the battery was almost dead and wouldn’t start. I opted instead to dig out the wheel barrow.

The two root balls came up easily, almost too easily. It’s like the roots never left the ball. Hmmm? I vacated both holes before retrieving the two new ones from the Trooper. It took some real umph to wheel barrow the two new bushes up the incline of the front yard. Aside from having to pull one of the bushes back out of its hole to make it slightly larger/deeper, the planting went smoothly. Not much to it. Done in less than an hour.

Next, I moved around front where for the second time in as many weeks, I transplanted several volunteer May Salvias (same ones as before) to make room for wave petunias in a couple of weeks.  Mindy came out to let me know that she was heading off to Target. I must’ve spent about 30 minutes transplanting the salvia.

One of my least favorite jobs each spring is clearing the flower beds of residual leaf debris. It’s a painstaking process, especially when it’s tangled amongst the English ivy. I took my time clearing out the same bed where I had just planted the burning bushes. I filled my collapsible yard debris can twice.

Mindy was home around 1230p. I asked what time we needed to leave for the wedding. She suggested no later than 145p. I asked that she alert me once the clock struck 130p. I still wanted to cut the front lawn. Before I did any mowing I put away all of my yard tools. I push mowed the front yard about as fast as I could. I didn’t bother doing any edging or whacking. Didn’t have time. Mindy came out with a time check just as I was finishing up. Good timing. All I had to do was lock the shed.. I decided to stow the mower in the garage since I’d probably use it on the back Sunday.

I headed in for a much needed shower. Mindy was already dressed and ready. I asked about proper attire. I didn’t want to wear a suit. I opted for Dockers and a sweater. I was ready to go by 145p. Mindy had me sign the gift card just before we left. We planned on going out afterwards, though we didn’t have a firm destination.

I tuned the Honda's XM radio to ESPN’s radio coverage of the NFL draft. Don’t you know, they were doing a story about the Vikings #1 draft choice, Christian Ponder.  Many are calling it a terribly risky pick. It didn’t take nearly as long as we thought to get to the Heimat Haus on route 104. We were there by 2p, a full 30 minutes early. We sat in the Pilot for a few minutes but decided to head inside a little early. Plenty others were already there too.

As we waited in the sign-in line, our old friend Lee joined up with us. Because we were early, we treated ourselves to premo aisle seating. We were soon joined by some of our Barley employee peeps, but still a rather small contingent. I took a bunch of photos from our perch. This marked our second event at the Heimat Haus. The last was for a wedding reception. And just like I did that time, I noticed a strong musty smell. It eventually goes away once you’ve been there for about 30 minutes.

The wedding started a little later than advertised, but I think that was intentional. The ceremony was quaint. The woman marrying Janet and Jacob had quite the sense of humor. There were more than a few laughs throughout. Ceremony lasted maybe 20-25 minutes. After the new couple was introduced to the crowd, everyone was invited into the adjoining banquet room for appetizers, wine and beer. The beer was provided Barley’s (Hoptopus and Scottish). Dinner was catered by Oscar Bickerdt. And as you might guess, authentic barbeque. Very good stuff!

Wasn’t long before the DJ got cranked up and the karaoke started. As I suspected, he had a plant amongst the guests, a starter if you will. The guy sang every other song for a while. During his first song I informed Mindy that he’d be singing Neil Diamond shortly. Sure enough, he did two or three. Too funny! Jimmy Cordle (former Buckeye) was introduced to the crowd and sang a song. Said something about the Giants drafting a tackle.

Most of the Barleyites, including the newlyweds, were said to be heading to Peddler’s, a local watering hole for more fun. Mindy and I opted not. It was near 6p, the very time we figured to be heading out. We decided to head to Barley’s. Mindy drove.

For whatever the reason, Barley’s has never been a crowded place on Saturday evenings. That was the case this time, too. The bar was only about half full. Tina was already working the bar after leaving the wedding reception around 5p. Justin had been at the wedding as well, and was serving tables.

We started having fun almost immediately. I ordered a Rogue Sublimely Self-Righteous black IPA. Mindy, a St Joan’s nitro. Zach was there (new manager). He texted his girlfriend Kate from CBC and then confirmed that she was coming in for a visit. He also shared that they went sky diving earlier in the day – thrill of a lifetime. Sounds like fun. Had a video and pics on his phone. Cool!

At some point some one, Mindy I think, decided to give some of the Barley employees seven dwarf nick names. That soon morphed into nicknames for everyone at the bar, even the strangers we’d just met. Soon everybody had a name tag with their nickname. There must’ve about 10-12 of them all totaled. I dubbed myself hoppy, and Mindy hoptopus. Tina was horny, and the other new manager, Jeff, goofy. She nick named Zach, spunky. We laughed our butts off.

Mindy texted nephew Joe soon after our arrival. He showed I’m guessing around 8-830p. Kate and Lawrence showed up just before Joe. Lawrence is from France and was quite entertaining.

Our intent all along was to hook Joe up with Justin, figuring them a good match for one another. At least initially, both seemed warm to the idea. At some point Mindy inquired about a ride home. Once Joe offered to be our DD, Mindy started drinking again. Not sure the time when we finally left for home, but I do know this, we were having a hoot of a good time. We left the Honda there while Joe drove us home.

Eiknarf was ecstatic to see us after being people deprived all afternoon and evening  I walked her out front before heading up to bed. I knew that she wouldn’t like being alone. I convinced Mindy that we needed to let her sleep with us.

Pesky Shih Tzus

I was up on time and downstairs a few minutes after 530a. The end of the work week couldn't come soon enough. When it did, it was ushered in by partly cloudy skies, but more importantly dry skies. I pushed through sit-ups and push-ups before hopping on the internet for about ten minutes. It was chilly, only 44 degrees. It was supposed to remain dry all day under partly sunny skies with a high only in the upper 50s. I’d take it. It’s been a very wet April.

Frankie and I took our morning walk heading out near 550a. I’m guessing we were out for about 10 minutes when she finallytook care of business. Back home I sipped coffee while reading the Daily OM. Time to move on.

Collectively, I spent the next 15 minutes meditating and stretching. That went reasonably well. Still dealing with a kink along the left side of my neck. Something’s out of alignment.

Took Mindy coffee and the pug. She was mid-shower. Headed back downstairs to ready for a run. Wore long running pants, thin long-sleeved wicking shirt and pullover fleece. Just about right. I was comfy/cozy throughout the entire 4.1 mile run. It was nice to see a splash of sunshine on the horizon.

Mindy made scrambled eggs again. I topped mine with a combination of peach mango salsa and green Tabasco sauce. Quite good. Before heading off to school, Mindy asked what our evening plans entailed, this being a Jimaken weekend. Barley’s, probably.

Off to the shower. I was back downstairs packing my lunch by 745a. I packed a banana, fruit medley, tuna pouch, and cheese. The kids and I set out for the bus stop at 757a. Chrissy was out with the girls, both of whom were wearing blue pea coats. Unusual for Chrissy’s girls to be ‘over coated’.

As soon as the kids were on the bus I spotted the older gentleman with the two yappy shih tzus was quickly coming our way. Instead of hanging out with Eiknarf, I opted to head directly back inside in hopes of avoiding the usual barkfest between our dogs. After a couple minutes I headed out to prep the Trooper for picking up shrubs at lunch. I put the rear seats down and its rear contents in the garage. With those pesky shih tzus now past, I took Eiknarf out for one last walk.

It was a pleasant drive into the office. I thought about stopping for a fill-up. The price of a gallon of gas was up to $4.09 at Thornton’s. That’s up $.35 over Thursday’s price.

Arrived at the office just ahead of 830a. The morning went smoothly, nothing out of the ordinary.

Meanwhile, the Vikings were atop the sports headlines for their questionable #1 draft pick, Florida State’s Christian Ponder. But really, who knows for sure how it will work out? Come 1p I left as planned for Darby Creek Nursery. Like the day before, I was the only customer in the lot. I went immediately to their stash of large burning bushes and picked the two I liked most. I then went to fetch an associate. They were fairly heavy so he called for assistance. I declared that unnecessary and offered to help load them onto a cart. Probably 60lbs each. He asked that I go pay while he and another guy loaded them into the back of my Trooper. In addition to the shrubs, I purchased 4 bags of peat/top soil that I plan to use for overseeding some thin areas in the back lawn. I was out of there in less than 25 minutes. Very efficient! Headed back to the office.

I was back ahead of 2p. I washed my hand thoroughly then went for my packed lunch. I was quite hungry. More than one person commented about the smell of tuna coming from my office. Like most Friday’s, the afternoon was incredibly busy, frustrating even. More than I could handle really. The saving grace was knowing that come 530p the weekend would be upon us, and I could let go for a couple days. 530p couldn’t come fast enough.

I ended up at the office until 540p. It felt great to be walking out with the weekend ahead. I talked with Mindy during the brief drive home. Discussed her day in brief then confirmed Barley plans. I arrived home just before 6p. Mindy asked what time I wanted to leave for Barley’s. I suggested 7p.

Until then, I was eager to rest, nap even. I decided to leave the two burning bushes in the Trooper until I was ready to plant them, which I hoped would be Saturday morning. I took a nap on the family room floor while Mindy changed clothes and tinkered around the house. I woke just before 7p and tuned to the NFL draft on ESPN. The Vikings were just about to make their 2^nd round pick. I was glued to the TV until the pick was made. Most pundits had them taking a defensive end. They surprised me and everyone else by picking a tight end from Notre Dame. We left for Barleys shortly after the pick.

The lot wasn’t full, especially surprising for a Friday. Inside, the bar was even less populated than the lot. I guess most guests were dining. We took refuge on a couple of bar stools facing north. Katy & Diedra were tending bar. I went with Rogue’s Sublimely Self- Righteous black IPA. Very good! Mindy had a St Joan’s nitro.

Friend Tom C. eventually joined us. Haven’t seen Tom since we golfed together in mid-March, or the day before our last ski trip to HV. Before forgetting, I asked for Hector the tree guy’s contact info. Tom swears by his work, and we have a large branch in one of our ash trees needing removed.

All three of us ordered food. I went with a Texas pile-it-on burger while Mindy went with the southwestern salad. Can’t recall what Tom ordered. The burger was absolutely terrific. I enjoyed a Centennial next. Darwin stopped in for carryout, and long enough to have a beer with us. Asked how long we’d be there. Mindy wanted to leave between 930-10p. Not long enough for him to return home with food, eat, then rejoin us. I had a 3^rd beer, another Centennial before heading home. I paid the tab. Mindy drove us home.

Mindy called Kenny on our drive home. Asked if they were up for company. Said they were, but not too late. Kenny had to catch a 6a flight to Florida Saturday (golf trip). We stopped home long enough to pee and corral Eiknarf. I grabbed my ½ full growler of IPA and a stout from the garage fridge for Mindy. We headed to the neighbors.

Visited with the neighbors long enough for me to drink two more beers. We talked about the royal wedding, which lead into a debate of the time difference. Well, given that I deal with various teams in the many time zones around the world, I was confident that London was on GMT and bet Chrissy $10 that I was right.  I lost because I didn’t account for London rolling to BST. Dammit!

Mindy and I walked home just after 11p. We didn’t stay up long before heading to bed. Mindy wanted to talk but I was ridiculously sleepy and wanted nothing more than my soft comfy pillow.  I rolled over and went to sleep.

Bones, Barleys & Rainbows

I was up on time. I was hoping I might see at least partially clearing skies but it wasn’t to be. Instead, nothing but clouds. At least it wasn’t raining. I proceeded with calisthenics.  I felt good after taking another 4 Advil just before bed. After calisthenics I spent about five minutes online. The forecast called for a chance of storms with the biggest chance yet that morning. At the time it was 50 degrees with a strong wind – about 20 mph. Expecting a high of 62 degrees.

Headed out with Eiknarf at 550a. We walked to the west. She did a lot of sniffing on the way out. Didn’t take care of her business until the walk back. Inside, I poured coffee and enjoyed it in front of the PC where I read the Daily OM and pre NFL draft scuttle. I checked my investment portfolio too. The markets have been performing well of late. Up, up, up!

Spent a solid 20 minutes in meditation and stretching. Both went fairly well. Delivered Mindy’s coffee next. Mindy shared, in no uncertain terms, that she needs more skin time. Yes dear. I left Eiknarf with Mindy and headed back downstairs to ready for my run.

I dressed warmly. Wore my pull over fleece. I ran the full 4.1 miles. Felt good. Time passed slowly, though, especially the first 3 miles. Back at the house, I rolled our trash can back to its home. Thanks to the strong winds overnight, lots of the giant green trash cans were lying over in the road this AM.

Mindy made scrambled eggs again. I topped mine with cheese and then some of that peach mango salsa. Jacob had eggs again too. He coated his in the hot salsa. Mindy left for school after giving Jacob some teacher-type advice for the OAA testing slated for later that day. "Don't doubt your first answer and don't change it unless you're absolutely positive."  Something like that.

I was off to the shower just after 730a. All clean and shiny, I was back downstairs by 749a. Jacob was busy pestering Bella. After several pleas for him to stop I had no choice but to interject parental control. It didn't cease until I threatened to take his airsoft guns away for an entire week. Aren't kids' toys great? You buy it. They get hooked. You then use it as a control device. I remember not so long ago, a teenage Lindsey espousing more than once that the only reason I ever bought her anything was just so I could take it away. 

Of course that's not true, but it does work out that way sometimes - OK, a lot!

We headed for the bus stop at our usual time. Can't recall whether it was Chrissy or Kenny out with the girls. Our wait was brief. After the bus swooped up the kids I headed back home with Eiknarf. I packed my iTouch, lunch, and phones then headed off to work. It was a Rachel day. She didn't make it on Tuesday as scheduled due to illness. This was the make-up day.

Not only was it Thursday, but it was NFL draft day too. I was excited to find out who the Vikings would select with the 12th pick overall. Of course it wouldn't start until 7 or 8p, but there was a lot of build up and scuttle leading up to it on ESPN radio .

The sky transitioned between clouds and sun for most of the day. The morning was slow to warm. Hovered in the low 50s all morning long.

Work, meanwhile, was busy enough that time whizzed by. I wanted to get away for lunch and held fast to that goal. I left the office at 1245p destined for Darby Creek Nursery, which is located directly across the street from the Hilliard soccer fields. I was curious to see if they had any large burning bush in stock. Strader's had some burning bushes but they were much too small to work in my mature landscape.

I might've been the only customer walking their grounds. That was nice. In a week or so, and once the weather breaks, all the local nurseries will be zoo-like. I found some burning bushes about the same size as the ones at Straders. Moving on, out amongst their trees, I found a cache of much larger ones, and equal to the size of my existing bushes. Perfect! They were priced at $50 each. Not bad considering the ones a 1/4 their size were $40. I contemplated folding the rear seats down in the Trooper and moving the few items I haul around to the front passenger seat so I could pick-up a couple of them right then. I thought better of it, thinking I'd come back possibly Saturday with dad's trailer. I definitely want to get them home and planted within the next week.

I headed back to work. My stomach was growling fiercely. During my drive back to the office I decided that I would almost certainly head back to Darby Creek Nursery on Friday to pick-up the two burning bushes, but only after stowing the contents of the Trooper in the garage before heading off to work. That way it would be bush-ready.

As big as they are, two of them will just fit.

Back at the office I washed my hands thoroughly. Not only had I touched lots of plants, but I handled several fertilizer type products, too. I woofed down my lunch, including the salad Mindy packed for me. Like most salads she makes, it contained as much meat as it did lettuce and such. It was very filling.

The afternoon went along as planned. Things quieted down a bit earlier than usual. I left for home around 520p, this a Jimaken Thursday. Mindy and I planned to dine at Barleys.

Got home around 540p. Mindy was out walking Eiknarf at the time. The house was sparkling clean, which is always a pleasant thing to come home to. Mindy & Eiknarf were back home in a jiffy. She and I readied for Barley's leaving the house just before 6p.

Barley's parking lot was no more than half full. Unusual. We parked near the entrance. Like the lot, the bar was equally barren. No more than 8 or 9 patrons around sitting around the bar. We bellied up to the bar with direct view of one of their flat panel TVs. We were both a little surprised that Janet was tending bar, now just two days before her Saturday wedding.

She poured me a Centennial and Mindy a St Joan's Revenge nitro. Sitting next to us was Tom the Mary Kay guy, and Rick and John, two older gentlemen that are frequently in on Thursday evenings. We talked with Stefanie, a newer manager. She introduced us to Zach, a brand new manager replacing tall Dan. Unlike many past Barley managers, he was very friendly from jump. We talked with him for at least 30 minutes. Turns out, his girlfriend is Kate, one of our favorite bar tenders at CBC. Zach's worked in a few of Cameron Mitchell's venues. Eager to try something new.

Mindy & I both ordered food. Me? I ordered the Thursday special, a smoked reuben and fries. Mindy ordered K.C. wings. Unusual for her. I had a second Centennial pretty quick but switched to water thereafter. I planned to drive home so Mindy could have a 2nd St Joan's.

We left for home around 8p. Jacob phoned just as we were leaving the parking lot. They were already out front at home awaiting our return. Inside, we immediately turned the TV to Idol elimination night missing the beginning. I fell asleep about 15 minutes in and didn't wake until they had the bottom three. Amongst them was Casey, which I found a little surprising since he may very well be the most talented of the entire bunch.

Yep, Casey was the unlucky one. Sent home. Again, you've got to consider who's doing the majority of the voting. Mindy sent the kids to bed after Idol while we stayed tuned to FOX watching Bones. We headed up to bed at its conclusion.

Here Fishy Fishy

I woke a few minutes late, or around 535a. It was 540a before I made it downstairs. I was greeted by trash spread across the entire kitchen floor. Looks like Frankie went berserk! I chased her to her pen out of frustration. I spent about 5 minutes picking up all the trash.

Meanwhile, I could hear the rain slapping against the roof. Sadly, a pattern all too familiar for the past couple of weeks. I slipped into my tennies then headed to the livingroom where I completed 55 sit-ups. My neck and shoulders felt 100 times better than they did at bed time the night before, thanks, no doubt, to the 4 Advil.

I checked the weather and headlines next. 61 degrees and raining. Looked like a break in the rain was just about upon us. However, predicting more strong storms throughout the day with strong gusty winds reaching as high as 40mph. Checked the Reds final too. They were tied when I headed to bed, but lost. Ugh!

Went to the familyroom to do my push-ups.  I freed Frankie from her pen and headed out for a walk. By then, thankfully, the rain had stopped. I couldn’t find the pooper scooper shovel. We left without it and walked across the street. She went in a reasonable amount of time. Started to rain again as we headed back to the house. I had to hurry Frankie along. I put her back in her pen afterwards.

Finally, I was able to enjoy a little coffee, but only for a few brief minutes. I was still behind schedule by about 10 minutes. As much as I hated to, I hurried through meditation and stretching. I headed upstairs with coffee at 630a. Mindy was mid-shower. I reported Frankie’s imprisonment and why.

 I headed back downstairs where I readied for a run. I wore shorts and a long-sleeved wicking shirt. It was pleasant, about 63 degrees. It stayed dry for the duration of my run. I ran the full 4.1 miles easily. Worked up a good sweat. Mindy was just putting the finishing touches on my fried eggs. I was happy to have them prepared as such after having them scrambled the previous two days. With them, I enjoyed some watermelon, strawberries and pineapple, the same mix I put in my lunch each day.

Mindy reminded the kids to bus home as normal.  Proposed having fresh fish for dinner and planned a stop at Whole Foods to get it. I am not a big fan of cooked at home seafood. Never tastes right. I said that I would happily eat leftovers. Mindy left for school near 730a, the same time that I headed up for a shower and right after I fed Frankie some leftover scrambled eggs from the fridge.

The kids were in shorts again, though figured it to be the last time this week. The high  temperatures aren’t expected to make it out of the 50’s Thursday & Friday. I was downstairs after my shower ahead of 750a. I spent the next 7 or 8 minutes pulling together my lunch, including packing a salad. The kids and I headed out at 758a. Chrissy was out with Makayla. For the time being, it was lovely, sunny and upper 60’s. It wasn’t expected to last. In fact, by the time I got organized for work the clouds had rolled back in. I left for work at 810a.

We had our weekly staff meeting at 9am. Went well. Lasted about an hour. The morning moved by swiftly. I took a formal lunch break at 1p and headed to Lowes.

At Lowes, I bought two new 16” hanging baskets and a 100 pack of 14” black tie wraps. I went to the paint & stain aisle before checking out to look at deck stain color options. I’m seriously considering going with a solid stain this go round. While perusing my options, I spotted two familiar faces coming up the aisle, Joey & Mindy Watkins. Haven’t seen those two in years. We chatted for a while. They seem to be doing well. Said they are now the proud owners of Hilliard Dry Cleaners. I let them know about the ‘76-’77 combo class reunion slated for this summer.

After heading through the Lowes outdoor checkout I headed back to the office. I was gone something less than an hour but felt refreshed and satisfied with my break.

The afternoon brought a couple more bouts of heavy rain. Becoming rather common place. I joked that the drought may finally be over as I glanced out my office window with a couple of my engineers. The afternoon went by in a flash. I left for home at 530p. I called Mindy shortly after exiting the parking lot. She was busy with dinner. I’d forgotten about the fresh fish thing. Said she and the kids went to Whole Foods and bought an array of seafood, including sword fish, Chilean sea bass, and shrimp. Said she was baking it via the recipe/direction given by the guy working the fish counter.

It was spittin’ rain again as I pulled up at home. Even though I cut the lawn Monday evening, it was already starting to look long in the tooth. I carried in my lunchtime purchases then took care of my usual chores. I had my lunch dishes taken care of and coffee prepped for the following day before dinner.

I decided to have some fish after all. The Chilean sea bass looked good to my eyes. In addition to buying fish, Mindy picked up some peach & mango salsa, and then this corn veggie mix. Bother were good. She made fresh gardens salads too.

Dinner was good and not too heavy. Bella refused to try the fish Mindy put on her plate. Ended up eating a hot dog. Jacob, on the other hand, had three helpings of fish. Never known a kid to like fish as much as he does.

I took care of kitchen clean-up. Took a while, too. Lots of big pan clean-up. As I was finishing up in the kitchen, Mindy said she was heading down to Chrissy’s for a visit. I asked that she check and see if I might’ve left my Columbia fleece there. Not sure where the kids were. Think they were outside playing.

The house completely quiet and all to myself, I took to the livingroom recliner with book in hand. Read about two pages before sleep came over me. At the time it seemed the most important thing in the entire world. Felt great.  I woke when Mindy and the kids came inside. Could’ve slept longer. I heard Mindy say it was time for Idol. I eventually joined the family in the familyroom to watch it. I missed the opening performance, Jacob Lusk.

Only 6 contestants remain. All were pretty good. I guessed Jacob would be sent packing. If not he, then perhaps Scottie.  Better not be Haley, though this week’s performance wasn’t her best.

Breaking In comes on after Idol. Now 930p, Mindy told the kids they needed to go to bed. I watched all of it. It's only a 30 minute program. Very funny show. Mindy headed for bed at its end. Ask if I was coming. I chose to stay up and watch the weather forecast. Expecting more severe weather overnight.  I headed for bed just before 1030p. For my money, too much sensationalizing and not enough substance. 

Air Soft Landing

Up on time and downstairs by 534a. I was shocked to see the moon hovering fairly high  in the eastern sky, expecting instead to find more clouds. While happy to see it, I wasn’t foolish enough to think it would last too long. After all, last I heard we were expecting heavy rain for the remainder of the week.

I slipped into my exercise tennies and headed to the living room where I typically do my sit-ups. After 55 sit-ups,  I checked the current forecast next. As suspected, we were in between storms. Plenty more coming our way from the southwest – a pipeline from the gulf.

After push-ups I leashed up Eiknarf and headed out for our walk. She only peed. The moon remained visible but at the same time there were a few flashes of lightning – no thunder detectable. Back home, I poured some coffee around 6a. I took a few minutes to enjoy it before segueing into meditation and stretching. Wouldn’t you know it, a quick thunder storm rumbled through just ahead of my run complete with lightning and heavy rain. Lucky for me, it lasted only a few minutes.

I dropped Eiknarf and coffee off to Mindy, who was fresh out of bed and preparing for a shower. I headed out for a run by 635a. The sky was almost completely clear again and fully daybreak. However, those fast moving storms clouds to our immediate east prevented the sunrise from being visible until about halfway through the run. I ran the full 4.1 miles in shorts and a thin long sleeved wicking shirt. I would’ve been more comfortable in a short sleeved shirt. It was 64 degrees and very humid.

Mindy made scrambled eggs for the second day in a row thanks to a request from Jacob. Today’s, however, were covered in cheddar cheese. There were more in the pan for Eiknarf again too. Mindy didn’t know it, but I had some of Monday’s in the fridge still. I ended up leaving them there, instead thinking I’d give those to Eiknarf on Wednesday.

Jacob has achievement testing 4 of the next 6 school days. He didn’t seem too thrilled about it. Tuesday’s testing was reading comprehension. Mindy asked the kids to bus home as normal. Asked if I planned to take Jacob shopping for another airsoft pistol after work, an agreement he and I made Monday. The plan was for me to intercept him at soccer practice, this also being a gymnastics night for Bella. That way Mindy could bail to pick-up Bella. The one variable being the weather, there was a strong chance that Jacob’s soccer practice would end up canceled due to all the rain. Mindy left for school at 730a.

Mindy wasn’t out the door a minute before I bolted off to the shower. I wasn’t long either. I was back downstairs by 750a throwing together my lunch. I hollered for the kids at 755a. We headed out the door separately. Jacob was the first one out. At the bus stop I noticed right away that Bella was no longer wearing the pants that Mindy had her wear with here spring shirt. Looked like she decided to make her shirt a dress. However, on closer inspection, she changed into a pair of shorty shorts. I gave her an earful and asked what she thought her mother would think. She basically said she’d never know. I then asked what made her think I wouldn’t tell, Hmmm? How much cash do you have? J Again, Bella’s Achilles heel – deception.

Meanwhile, Makayla was sulking because her mom had her in jeans. She wanted to be in shorts like Jacob and Bella. Tomorrow, I heard Chrissy say. The bus arrived on time – 804a. Eiknarf and I walked back home after peeing again. Mindy reminded me that it was a Rachel day before she left earlier, and also asked that I run the dishwasher before leaving for work. I did as requested. I left for work at 810a. Thought I might take my golf clubs and head to the range at lunch but forgot the clubs.

Arrived at work around 830a as usual. The sky remained partly sunny but rain clouds hovered to the SW, the same direction all our weather’s been coming from. I stayed plenty busy.  The morning went fast. Heavy rain hit a couple of times. But we got a few intervals of clearing too. Around 1pm I decided to take a much needed break and drove to Strader’s for my annual spring walkabout.

They didn’t disappoint. Had most of their annuals out and were well stocked. It’s so uplifting to walk around their expansive greenhouse. It's a'ways warm, humid and smells terrific. I must’ve spent about 45 minutes walking around looking at their offerings. There wasn’t a crowd either. That’s all gonna change here in a week or two. This up coming weekend would be best to make purchases ahead of Mother’s Day weekend when it’s routinely an absolute zoo. In no way am I anywhere close to ready to plant flowers in the beds. I could do my pots and baskets, though.

I headed back to work in a far better place mentally. Ahhh! Once back at the office I went for my packed lunch (tuna packet, cheese, and fruit). I made sure to wash my hands good after touching all sorts of fertilizers and stuff while at Straders.

The afternoon went by fast. Once again, our weather came in phases. When the sun came out the temperature would spring above 70 in a hurry. Still cool without it. Sent Mindy a text late afternoon letting her know that the Hilliard Soccer Complex’s website had a notice up indicating that the fields were closed for the day. No practice… again.

She sent an email a little later thanking me and also asking if I wanted to order pizza for dinner. No, I didn’t. We had oodles of leftovers in the fridge including inferno chicken, pork roast, and brats. I confirmed that I still planned to take Jacob shopping for another airsoft pistol.

Mindy & Bella were off to gymnastics when I arrived home. After addressing my immediate chores, Jacob and I headed off for Wal-Mart. Jacob was doubtful that Wal-Mart would have decent airsoft pistols. I knew different. I’d seen them there. There supply is every bit as good or better than Dick’s Sporting Goods. Less expensive too.

As luck would have it, traffic was at a crawl all the way west on Trabue. Took at least 20 minutes to make the usual five minute drive. But we weren’t in a huge hurry. I remained calm throughout the slow drive. We entered through the garden center and eventually made our way back to sporting goods. They’ve done a remodel since I was last in the Hilliard Wal-Mart. I like it much better. We compared the various models of airsoft pistols. I convinced Jacob that he didn’t need or want to deal with CO2 cartridges. I pointed him towards a pistol that had both spring and battery firing options. Like his rifle, it has an automatic mode too. It was priced nicely as well – only $21. We waited for the sports department dude to click the rack release. We made the purchase right there in the sporting good department.

We exited back through the garden center, which at the time was largely unvisited. As we exited the store a clerk came running our way shouting that she needed to check our bag. Those that know me, know how much I despise such actions. This time I chose to bite my lip and show her our purchase and receipt. I had a few smart ass comments whirling through my mind but opted to keep them to myself fearing I might influence Jacob negatively. We headed home. No traffic headed east at all.

We arrived home still in front of 7p. Jacob wanted to open his gun immediately, and understandably so. Forgot to mention, he paid me for the airsoft gun as soon as we got back in the car. It took a few minutes to figure out the operation of the gun but we finally did. Jacob took it out on the deck to put it to the test. A little kludgie at first until he figured it out fully.

Mindy & Bella arrived home while Jacob was out unloading his second chamber full of airsoft BBs. Bella quickly asked if she could run off to Makayla’s while Mindy, Jacob, and I whipped up our dinner, pork roast burritos. I did the whipping up. Mindy & Jacob had avocado on theirs. Not me.  Mine was just fine with cheese, red onion and sour cream.

After dinner Jacob asked if we could watch something interesting on TV. We ended up watching multiple episodes of Office back-to-back. For my money, it's one of the funniest TV shows out there. I continued watching Office even after the kids, and later Mindy, were off to bed. Mindy asked that I not be long. I headed to bed at 1010p. My neck was bothering me again. Couldn't get that kink to release. Mindy fetched me 4 Advil shortly after I crawled into bed.

Rain - Cut the Lawn - Pork

I slept better than I have in days. I was up on time and downstairs by 532am. A quick glance out the back door revealed more rain. Oh boy! I slipped into my exercise shoes then hit the ‘go’ button on the coffee maker.

Before heading to bed the night before, I took 4 Advil and also found a new way to stretch out my back by lying back first over the arm of the sofa. That single act cleared the lingering discomfort that had been plaguing me for days, weeks even. That painful kink in my left wrist was gone too.

I whizzed through sit-ups and push-ups. Frankie waited patiently nearby as if she was ready for our morning walk. I enjoyed a cup of coffee before hand. It was raining when we finally headed out but not enough to warrant an umbrella, though it picked up a bit as we walked along the sidewalk. She took care of business as expected. We hurried back home so to avoid the ever increasing rainfall.

I checked the radar. We looked to be teetering right on the edge of a big blob of rain. My hope was that it would quickly pass. Meditation and stretching went well. I delivered coffee and the pug to Mindy who was already mid-shower. It was still raining as I dressed for a run. I went with fresh running clothes after trashing others working in the wet and muddy yard Sunday afternoon. Since it was 57 degrees and rainy, I wore long running pants and a light weight wicking shirt along with a pullover fleece.

The rain continued through the run’s entirety, though the amount light. I ran the full 4.1 miles without any problems. I was good and wet by its end. Inside I stripped out of my wet clothes and tossed my shirt and fleece in an empty clothes basket. Jacob had just come inside from walking Frankie a second time. Said she did both again. Hmmm?

Mindy had plain scrambled eggs waiting. I knew instantly that I wouldn’t be able to finish mine. Too much. Mindy shared that there were some already set aside for Frankie too. Mindy reminded the kids to bus home with Noah since she had an after school staff meeting planned. Bella cheered. With an expected high near 70 degrees, we permitted the kids to wear shorts despite a forecast of rain. Mindy left for work after putting a frozen pork roast in the crock pot. She asked that I season it more thoroughly before departing for work. As it was, the lid wouldn’t close.

I headed for the shower at 733a and was back downstairs prepping my lunch at 750a. I packed a fresh lettuce-based salad, fruit medley, cheese chunks and a banana. The kids and I headed to the bus stop at 758a. It wasn’t raining as we walked out the door but started up again once at the stop. Kenny was out with the girls. Bella had her umbrella but wasn’t using it. I opened it up to use just as the bus pulled up. Bella wanted to take it to school. Kenny and I both scurried back to our homes as soon as the kids pulled away. I didn’t bother giving Frankie a chance to walk again. She’d already gone twice.

Inside, I packed up my work gear then tended to the pork roast. I still couldn’t get the lid to close, needed to thaw more.  I left the crock pot on high when I departed for work. It was 812a.

Not exactly a pretty drive into work. Spit rain most of the way. In my office by 830a. Not a bad start to the work week. The morning moved along at a good clip. Mindy called mid-morning just to chat. At the time I was in the middle of researching some data. Our conversation was brief.

It was a crappy day weather-wise. I didn’t bother leaving for lunch, but did close my door for a while to relax, write, and eat my packed lunch. Like the morning, the afternoon moved swiftly. A couple brief storms moved through the area mid-afternoon. It rained really hard during one of them. The sky began to show signs of brightening around 330p. If it stayed that way, I was hoped to cut the lawn after dinner.  The front could really use it. I left for home at 520p. The sky maintained its benign look. It wasn’t sunny by any stretch, but it wasn’t threatening rain anymore, either.

I pulled up at home at 535p. The family was gathered in the kitchen, Mindy tending to dinner, the kids doing their homework. I rinsed my lunch containers and prepped Tuesday’s coffee while interacting with the family. I went to check email while waiting on Mindy to put the finishing touches on dinner.

We had pork roast and Bob Evans mashed potatoes and gravy along with leftover cooked carrots and macaroni salad. Mindy said the roast didn’t get fall apart tender like it usually does. Probably because the crock-pot lid never closed all the way even after the roast fell in. however, it was still delicious. Both kids asked to be excused from the table. Jacob teased Bella to the point of frustration. He does that a lot. Somehow he avoided punishment.

Mindy agreed to manage dinner clean-up thus affording me the opportunity to cut the lawn. It was near 630p when the sun peaked out a time or two. I headed upstairs where I quickly changed into the running clothes I wore working in the yard on Sunday. No sense dirtying more.

I whacked and edged first. Glad I fixed the weedwacker head Sunday. Worked like a champ. Edging went about as well as could be expected. Really need the ground to dry out a bit more, though. Jacob & Evan were out back playing with their airsoft guns when neighbor Jake and 4 or 5 of his friends dashed out back to the tree house in close proximity to where Jacob and Evan were playing. I overheard one of Jake’s friends saying something about shooting out our windows with a BB gun. I stopped what I was doing and called the kid out. Point blank told the kid that I’d kick his behind. He got polite in a hurry.

Jake quickly assured me that he’d keep his friends in check. I wasn’t pleased that Jacob and Evan had to move their play to appease those boys. Jacob needs to learn to defend himself and resolve conflict with kids his own size.

I headed around front to mow. I set the mower blade extra high to start off, but quickly lowered it a notch after realizing that I’d be cutting again in 2 or 3 days at that high of a setting. Still had it set higher than normal. The lawn was thicker than it was last week, although there are still a few areas that haven’t taken off like the rest of the front lawn. I took my time out front. Glad I got it when I did.

I headed around back to hit some of the high spots. The growth in the back is still very spotty. And there was no way that I was gonna get the tractor out. The middle back yard is a giant mud puddle. I push mowed the entire upper half of the back yard. I noticed that Makayla and Bella were out in the tree house with all those boys. At one point I stopped the mower and asked them if they were OK. Said they were fine. After the boys left, the girls shared that they were ‘good’ boys.

Approaching 8p, I headed inside to get a much needed shower. I heard Bella bawling her head off to Mindy about something. She was coming up to shower immediately after me. I asked what was wrong. Said all her friends were still out riding their bikes. But because her own bike was still stowed on the garage ceiling, she felt left out. I promised to get it down on Tuesday. That did little to make her feel better at the time. Thing is, she still doesn’t know how to ride it as a two-wheeler. Still has training wheels on it. I might ask dad to work with her just like he did Jacob. That proved to be a game changing experience for him.

I headed downstairs to the family room and tuned to the knowledge channels looking for something interesting to watch. I happened upon a program about the texts not chosen to be part of  the Bible. I’ve seen most of it before, but still found it captivating. Mindy liked it too. Around 845p my eyes felt so heavy I could no longer keep sleep at bay. I dosed off for about 15 minutes. I woke just after the kids headed up for bed. Mindy did an early bedtime too. No later than 915p. I headed up to tuck the kids in to bed then headed back to the sofa where I watched more History Channel. I headed up to bed at 1010p. As I slipped into bed I noticed that the sky was clear. Hmmm? A fluke? Strong storms were forecasted for the overnight and again Tuesday and Wednesday.

Confetti Eggs for Easter

I woke around 745a, and aside from a stiff neck and shoulders, I felt pretty good. I tried to remain stealthy as I slipped off to brush my teeth, but Mindy woke just as I was heading out the bedroom door for downstairs. She asked me to lie down and hold her for a few minutes. I obliged her request. Must’ve stayed in bed for another 30 minutes.

While I started coffee and played on the internet, Mindy took a shower, presumably getting ready for church. Meanwhile, it was another cloudy, rainy, and moderately warm spring morning. Any hopes of a hot & sunny Easter were dashed. Expecting rain most of the day with the high reaching only 62 degrees.

I walked Frankie before Mindy & the kids were downstairs. She took care of her business in a hurry. Still before 9a, the kids finally woke up. Mindy’s trained them well. They always ask before they head downstairs on Xmas and Easter. Mindy granted their wish. Bella was down first. It took a few seconds for me to realize what she was doing. She was already gathering the hidden eggs Mindy stashed around the family room. Mindy made her stop until Jacob made it down. They both used plastic grocery bags to store their  eggs. Personally, I think they’re getting a little old & wise for a one room egg hunt. They found 51 of the 52 in the matter of a minute.

The kids opened some of the plastic eggs revealing their content. I'm quite sure that Mindy said 11 of the eggs held $1 each. The rest held candy. After the egg hunt, the kids attacked their personal baskets. Almost immediately Bella echoed displeasure with hers - the skimpy offering. Mindy wasn’t very happy to hear that from her. Jacob seemed pleased though.

After spending a few minutes rifling through their baskets we headed out back for a confetti egg fight. Mindy brought out the special eggs after taking cinnamon rolls out of the oven. What Jacob didn’t realize was that I already had one of the eggs in my possession. I nailed him in the high thigh from about 20 feet. Left a nasty read mark. A younger Jacob would’ve broke into tears. He laughed it off.

Both Mindy & I were a little surprised at the durability of these eggs. Actually hurt when they hit you, and most bounced off remaining whole. Bella took a couple to the head. Jacob plays rough. We finished the confetti egg battle after about five minutes. Left a mess in the grass. We headed back to the house. At some point I gave Mindy her Easter present, a dazzling new gazing ball. I think she liked it.

Mindy headed back upstairs to ready for church. At the same time she had the kids ready themselves. Before they left for church, she had me take a few pictures. Same dress she wore a few years back I noticed. After Mindy and the kids left for church, I started some bacon. I hadn’t had bacon and eggs in a while. Craving it. Last Easter, I remember hanging the new track lighting over the fireplace. As I recall, I did a lot of swearing. Not sure why that came to mind.

It dawned on me while I was cooking breakfast that I hadn’t yet ran. The holiday thing threw me a curve ball. Almost ready, I decided to go ahead and eat beforehand. I enjoyed my eggs and bacon then readied for a run. As long as I didn‘t stuff myself I knew I’d be fine.

I headed out the door around 1035a. Like most Sunday’s I rolled my run back to just three miles. It rained lightly on and off but wasn’t anything more than an inconvenience. Sadly, getting used to running in the rain. We go through a phase every spring when we become stuck in an endless loop of rain and cool temps. More often than not the pattern strikes a week or so ahead of Memorial Day. Perhaps we’re getting it out of the way early this year. Only time will tell.

After my run I headed out back to see if there were a few yard chores I could complete in the less than desirable conditions. I topped off the hot tub and then checked the long standing ant hill near one of the back yard red maples. I put down Ortho ant killer last week. Supposed to kill on contact and then keep them away for 90 days.  Looked like a mound of busy ants to me. I went and got more of the poison and applied an extra heavy dose. After topping off the hot tub I watered it in well, per the directions.

Mindy and the kids were home around noon. Mindy offered to make me a grilled cheese sandwich, but how could I finish my chores if I were a sandwich? J I declined. I cut back some honey suckle and then trimmed some dead growth from the shrubs out front. Before calling it an afternoon, I took 30 minutes to fix and clean the head on my weedeater, and then I replace the blade on the edger attachment, both perfect rainy day tasks.

The front lawn really needed cut again, but it was too wet. I held out hope that we'd get a dry afternoon during the coming week where I could then cut it after work. I headed in for a much needed shower. It was around 230p. Mindy wanted to head to her mom’s place around 3-330p. I was ready to go by 3p. In addition to the kids, we took Frankie and scalloped potatoes. We left the house at 315p.

Mindy had her XM set to “the Jesus Channel”. I tried switching to the classic vinyl station but couldn’t locate it. Mindy pointed out that it needs to be set to XM2. Ahh – OK. We arrived at Gloria’s place around 330p. We were the 3^rd car to arrive. Expecting at least 3 others. After a brief greeting, Jacob and I headed out back to shoot hoops. We brought the basketball the kids pulled from the pond. After adding a little air it seemed like a real nice ball.

While playing basketball, the sky cleared up and the temperature shot up in a hurry. Having checked the radar just before leaving the house, I guessed that it just might clear for about an hour. Jacob and I played two games of 1 on 1. I took both, but worked up one heck of sweat in doing so. Somehow or another I hurt my left wrist. Not sure when or how. Every time I took a shot a sharp pain surged along and behind the thumb and into my wrist.  I stayed outside soaking up the sunshine and warm temps while it lasted. Figured I better get it them. Looked like rain everyday during the coming week.

Dinner must’ve been served around 5p. There was ham, KFC chicken, macaroni salad, corn pudding, coleslaw, deviled eggs, and green beans. I ate plenty but avoided completely stuffing myself. After dinner I could’ve fallen asleep but didn’t. Several folks went on a neighborhood walk. Mindy & I did not.

Dessert was served around 7p – ice box cookie cake and strawberry flan cake.  I had two pieces of the ice box cookie cake. Yummy!

Already after 730p, I suggested we ready for home. Mindy agreed. Must’ve been around 745p when we headed out. Gloria gave each of the grandkids an Easter basket before they left. She made Easter treat bags for all the adults too. That was very nice. Mine was filled with lots of bulls eyes.

Arrived home just before 8p. Both kids pleaded for a little outdoor playtime, but Mindy quickly nixed that notion. Instead, she had them ready for bed. At Jacob’s prompting, we tuned the TV to the Discovery Channel’s Human Planet. Another excellent episode. I poured a pint of Centennial. Went down easy. We watched until 9p. I fell asleep on the floor for about 10-15 minutes. I woke shortly after Mindy sent the kids upstairs for bed. It was 915p. I played around on my PC for a few minutes until Mindy announced that she was heading to bed. I went back in the family room with Frankie for a few to hopefully get her settled for the night.

I headed upstairs to tuck in the kids. Eiknarf taken care of, Bella said she needed to talk to me about this boy at school, Joe. Oh boy, with Bella, you just never know where the conversation might lead. She went on and on about how he’s always chasing/following her. Brings other boys along too. Sounds like Joe has a crush on our Bella. Bella wasn’t happy that I was heading to bed. She likes for me to be up and downstairs until she falls asleep.

I wasn’t in bed but a minute or two when Frankie found her way to the bottom of the stairs and started whining. She wanted to be with her people. I’m usually with her on the sofa when she falls asleep. After talking it over with Mindy we agreed to allow Frankie to sleep with Bella, who had already made her way into our room to ask. Good night monsoon!

Playing Easter with the G-Kids

I slept fairly well Friday night and was up at 730a after about 9.5 hours of sleep. Downstairs I started a pot of coffee then whipped out sit-ups and push-ups before heading out with Eiknarf. It was warm, about 61 degrees, but once again cloudy and threatening rain. In fact, it started to rain while Eiknarf and I finished our walk. Ugh!

It was just after 8a when we returned home and I poured some coffee. I could hear Mindy upstairs and stirring. I was very surprised that she was up and downstairs a couple minutes later. She's rarely up before 9a on a Saturday.

We kept largely to ourselves, me on my PC and Mindy on her laptop until the kids were up. Not 30 minutes went by before Frankie insisted on going out again. This time Mindy took her out. I worked on publishing a few blog entries before heading out on my Saturday run. It was near 930a. I wasn’t sure how to dress but opted for long running pants and a wicking shirt. It was in the low 60s but also very humid. I was a tad too warm. Could easily have gone with shorts and a short sleeved shirt. The sky cleared briefly and the sun came out. That warmed things even more and also in a hurry. When I returned Mindy shared that Bella wanted some Tim Horton’s donuts.  Why not? I made it conditional. One, she had to go with me and two she had to pay. She said she’d go along but didn’t have enough money to buy.  I was kidding about her paying. We took the BM’er. Bella’s rode in it only one other time.

It was still sunny and warm as we headed down the road to Timmy’s. It didn’t take us long to get our dozen donuts, but by the time we were heading back towards home clouds were moving in again. L The lovely weather was short lived.  Nice while it lasted!

I enjoyed a cream filled donut before heading out. Mindy wanted to nail down our day’s plans. She offered that we should have the grandkids over to give them their Easter baskets. Wanted me to make the arrangements. I called both Lindsey and Ashley. Kelly agreed to bring the kids over. Ashley agreed to pick ‘em up around 730p. Mindy planned to grill brats and dogs. She was planning a trip to the grocery well before any of that and wanted me to take Jacob for a haircut. Jacob  was willing to pay me $20 not to take him. Mindy wasn’t amused when I accepted his bribe. Told her I’d end up taking him Monday. I gave him his money back.

While Mindy left for the grocery, Bella ran off to Makayla’s. Jacob and Evan had an airsoft battle out back. I gave him until 1245p. At that time I told him that we’d have to leave to get his haircut. He agreed. It rained on and off, but that didn’t detour the boys. Jacob was a muddy mess when he came back inside. By then I had already showered and was busy downloading some music from iTunes. I asked Bella to see if Chrissy would keep an eye on her while I ran Jacob to get his haircut. Kenny agreed. Jacob and I left around 1p.

We headed to the Great Clips by the Hilliard Giant Eagle. They were moderately busy but still able to take him right away. I walked back to give the stylist some pointers. It was a guy. Can’t recall his name. He’s cut my hair before. He did a good job. One of the best cuts Jacob’s had.

Mindy called just as we were finishing up at Great Clips. She was already on her way home from the grocery. Jacob and I headed across the street to Dick’s Sporting Goods despite his insistence that we not. I wanted to look at their skate boards. Bella’s Target special recently broke. They have some decent boards, but not like I was lead to believe. We didn’t buy one. There only about ten minutes we left empty handed and headed back towards home.

Mindy was already home. Jacob put on a pouty face as we entered the house. I wasn’t sure if he was joking or if he was playing it up for Mindy. He absolutely hates getting his haircut. Mindy gave me one of those looks as I entered. I assured her that he was only joking. He turned around laughing. Jacob headed back out to play with his friends. I headed out to work in the flower beds some.

My goals was to remove the English Ivy growing up the sides of the house and then cut down the two burning bushes that are completely dead on the west side of the house. As I shared earlier, it was only in the mid 60s but awfully humid. I worked up quite a sweat out there in the flower beds. Mindy came out for about 30 minutes to help. We filled an entire tarp with English Ivy clippings from the east side alone. Mindy broke off to head down to Chrissy’s house. They planned to cookout with us later once the gkids and dad were over.

I took a second shower after yard work. I was sticky, sweaty and dirty. The gkids showed up around 330p. Kelly dropped them off. Lindsey came over too. As usual, the kids were a little wild, especially at first. At Mindy’s prompting, I lit the grill around 5p. As luck would have it, it started raining again, heavy too. I checked the radar. It didn’t look like the rain was gonna last, at least not the heavy stuff.

Not sure the time when dad arrived, but it was after 5p. I headed out to grill the brats and dogs, about 15 of each. Mindy had potato salad and baked beans prepared too. Even before dinner, I started drinking  Jack & Coke. I needed the buzz to help deal with the chaos. J

Brats and dogs grilled up real nice. I had one of each along with some potato salad. Meanwhile, we had a houseful between the grand kids, neighbors, dad, as well as our own kids. Ashley arrived around 730-8p to pick-up the grandkids and Lindsey.

I kept the Jack & Cokes flowing into evening hours. I had quite a buzz going. At some point, as the evening wound down Mindy became annoyed with a comment I made about her mom. Let’s just say that she gave me an earful in front of the remaining guests - neighbors and dad. Ouch!

Not sure the time when Dad peeled off for home, but I’m guessing it was near 830p. The neighbors stuck around for a while. At some point Mindy got upset again, but for what I can’t recall. Not sure if it was me or Jacob. But anyway, she grabbed her purse and keys and left for about 20-30 minutes. Once Bella got word of that she was upset too.

Chrissy took that as her queue to depart. She begged off for home. Kenny and big Jake stuck around with Jacob and I. A little foggy on the details, but at some point big Jake asked if he could take a swig of Jack. Yes. He didn’t care for it at all. Not sure what he thought it would taste like. Kind of funny watching him deal with the inevitable burn. Jake gave Kenny hell for laughing and dared him to take a swig. Kenny promptly downed what remained in the bottle (not much) without emotion.

Mindy was back home a couple minutes later. Said she was going to bed. Kenny & Jake headed for home. They weren’t gone five minutes when Kenny returned to the front door saying that he forgot Makayla. Oops! :) She was upstairs with Bella. Jacob and I toyed with the idea of walking down to Kenny’s to shoot pool but never did. Mindy made him go to bed. I took refuge on the sofa watching TV and eventually falling asleep. Mindy got busy playing Easter bunny. She woke me around 11p, I think, to head to bed.

Cool & Rainy like Veteran's Day

I was up on time on what proved to be yet another rainy morning in April. It was supposed to be Good Friday, but the gloomy weather made it hard to find anything good about it. Seemed more like Veteran’s Day in mid November. I breezed through sit-ups and push-ups then checked the ugly forecast online. It was 44 degrees and raining. Later in the day, it wasn’t expected to warm beyond the low 50’s.

It was near 6a when Eiknarf and I headed out for our morning walk. She’s getting much better about taking care of business quickly ever since we switched her food. I can’t help but think it’s more than just a coincidence. Like I’ve shared before, she’s gobbling up her twice-a-day food allotment in one setting.

We were back home by 610a. Because it was Good Friday, both Mindy and the kids didn’t have school. In turn, that clipped several minutes from my morning routine. I enjoyed coffee for a while longer and took more time than usual with meditation and stretching, too. It was 645a when I headed out for a run. It was chilly enough that I was compelled to wear running gloves. It rained but only lightly. I ran the full 4.1 mile track getting back somewhere near 720a. Mindy wasn’t up so I prepared my own breakfast. I didn’t mind. I fried two eggs perfectly and enjoyed them along with fruit and ½ an English muffin.

I headed up for a shower around 740a. Mindy woke as I headed into the shower. I was quick with a shower, primping, and then getting dressed. Mindy was already out of bed and downstairs when I finished. Said she and the kids were gonna color eggs and maybe even have lunch with her mom. Sadly, there wasn’t gonna be any outdoor playin’ going on. Weather was miserable.

Left for work at 810a. I’d forgotten that my peer and I planned a 9a meeting with a handful of folks. No worries. We pulled it off. The work day wasn’t nearly as stressful as I thought it might be. Friday’s can get crazy quickly. I left for lunch at 115p making a stop at Wal-Mart & Home Depot to get Easter stuff for Mindy & the kids.

I went to Wal-Mart first. There I bought Jacob & Bella new fishing poles and tackle as well as a couple auto care items for me. I headed to Home Depot next. There, I picked up two new sprayers for the hose, odorless ant spray, parts for the weedeater, and a gazing ball for Mindy. I also bought two cool new tiki torches for the deck.

It was 230p. I headed back to the office for what I hoped would be a calm finish to the work week. I called Mindy during my drive home but got disconnected. She called back a couple minutes later. Shared that I got the stuff for the kids Easter Baskets as planned. She shared that they made confetti eggs and went to lunch with her mom at Minelli’s. She also said that Jacob asked if we could dine at Barley’s. Oh, and by the way, it was still raining and chilly.  I wasn’t sure about Barley’s. My neck & shoulders were bothering me all day long.

Inside, Mindy showed off the Easter crafts the kids made that day. Jacob asked about Barleys. I was noncommittal. I eventually made my way to the livingroon floor lying flat on my back trying to stretch out the kink. Mindy, the kids, and Frankie followed me. I wrestled with the kids a little. And unless I’m mistaken, I think I took a brief nap. It was raining at a good clip. Hard to get motivated to do anything, really. Mindy kept on me about dinner. Honestly, a Minelli’s pizza sounded good to me, but they had already been there earlier. I reminded Jacob that I had just been the Barley’s the evening before. I eventually acquiesced agreeing to do dinner at Barleys. It was after 7p when we headed out.

It was raining heavy enough that I let everyone out at the door. I found a parking spot towards the back of the lot. Mindy put our name in for a bar area booth. It was very crowded. I enjoyed a Centennial while waiting for a table. I also carried on a conversation with Scott P. about the Brew Kettle brewery's in-house brewing program where you pay like $175 to brew your favorite beer. That fee covers everything: ingredients, bottles, customer labels, etc. Sounds like fun.

Sarah was our server. Mindy ordered the hummus plate, and I ordered the Cuban with bacon. Haven’t had one of those for about a year, or ever since they changed the recipe to the more traditional Cuban. Loved their old one way better. Jacob ordered buffalo chicken tenders with Gates of Hell sauce on the side for dipping. Bella ordered a corn dog and fries. I ordered a 2^nd Centennial IPA too, despite having some left in my first.

Mindy left an empty growler at the bar when we arrived. Before leaving, I asked Katy to fill it with Centennial. I paid the bar tab and Mindy picked up dinner. We headed home around 9p. It was noticeably warmer as we headed out the door, at least 10 degrees warmer. Hmm? We talked about hanging with the neighbors once home, but they were also out for dinner - celebrating their anniversary.

I tuned the TV to FOX to watch Fringe. Mindy felt it too much for the kids but I assured her that it was PG. They watched intently.  I poured a Centennial from my growler but fell asleep before it was gone. We headed to bed around 10p, or after the program. Unusual for a Friday night. I had about ½ a beer left.  I covered it and placed it in the fridge.