Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Hot Tub in Quarters

Even though I was scheduled off work, I was still up ahead of Mindy and before well 630a. I headed downstairs where I started coffee then my exercises. I was shocked at the temperature. It was still 72 degrees. All the windows were steamed up from the humidity.

I headed out with Eiknarf near 630a. It was a lovely summer morning. Lovely that is, as long as you like it hot and steamy like me. As soon as we were back I delivered Mindy’s coffee. I decided not to rush to get in my run. Instead, I planned to wait until after the kids were on the school bus. I used the time to write in my blog.

Mindy left near 730a for school. I continued writing until just before school bus time.  I changed into my running clothes before walking the kids out. Man was it sticky! Chrissy asked about our tee-time. We didn’t have one, but hoped to get out soon after my run. Kenny went to a job site early but was expected back before 10a.

After the kids were on the bus I let Eiknarf walk a while out front where she took a second dump. I spent a couple more minutes writing before heading out for my run. It was still before 830a.

I wasn’t into my run more than a few hundred yards when I broke into a sticky sweat. I probably should’ve gone shirtless. It was already 80 degrees with extremely high humidity, a fitting start to June. Aside from the short sleeved wicking shirt feeling like seal skin, the run went well. Felt really good. I was surprised to see the Junk-King truck in front of the house when I returned and the two-man crew organizing their gear to remove the hot tub. I asked if they needed anything from me before getting started. Nope. I headed in for a shower.

They started cutting up the hot tub with a reciprocating saw in a hurry, and they were still sawing away once I was back downstairs dressed and preparing to leave for golf. I called Kenny to confirm our plans. He was just leaving a job site and on his way home. We talked about playing Phoenix or Split Rock. Split Rock made more sense due to the shade provided by the trees. We were expecting a high of 95 degrees.

While waiting on Kenny, I headed out to the deck and took a few pics off the cut up hot tub. I prepared two large tumblers of ice water for the crew. I thought about pulling a joke, flying out of the house asking what the hell they were doing to my hot tub. I thought better of it. The guy doing all the sawing looked a wreck with sweat. I asked if they needed anything from me before I left for the day. They asked if I would mind settling up right then. I put the service on my credit card.

I stuffed my golf bag’s small cooler with a bottled water and a large Gatorade then walked down to Kenny’s. We left for Split Rock a couple minutes later. We took I-71S to
Stringtown Rd
to Rt 104 to Rt 762. That eventually turns into
Scioto Darby Creek Rd
, the home of Split Rock. Not sure the time, but the parking lot was a bit more crowded than either of us expected. We expected it to be almost barren given that it was a work day. Probably 25 cars there – by no means full = but Split Rock never is.

I think it was $25 each with a cart. There was a twosome in front of us on the tee so we went to the putting green to warm up. They were just walking off the 1st green when we headed to the tee box. Kenny had the honors on the 1st tee box. He hit his brand new driver but sliced it horribly right landing somewhere in the 9th fairway. I hit my first drive straight down the middle about 230-240 yards. Thank you very much! I told Kenny to hit another. He hit his second drive much better – right side of the fairway.

In typical Jimmy fashion, I duffed my approach shot badly hitting a weak slice with a 7-iron. Kenny hit his 2nd shot within 8 feet of the hole. I hit my 3rd shot on but just barely. I left myself about a 40’ putt, which turned into a 3 putt. Kenny holed his putt for a birdie. I told him to take the birdie and not count the errant first drive. Told him I planned to take a mulligan at some point.

Hole #2 is a 150 yard par 3 down a steep hill with a concrete pond protecting the green. I was nervous standing over my shot hitting a 7-iron. My swing felt forced and uncomfortable but I got decent results leaving it just off the front of the green. I chipped on and two putted for a bogey.


Through the entire front nine I never once got myself in any trouble off the tee. I hit some darn good 2nd shots too. I still wasn’t putting well, though. Lots of three putts. Ended up shooting a 47 on the front. Uncharacteristic for Split Rock, we were held up on almost every hole by that twosome in front of us. They were playing really slow. The starter came out a couple times and asked if we wanted to complain. Nah. Kenny practically drove the green on hole #9. We think they pocketed his ball. Kenny asked but they denied it. As they pulled away in their cart, Kenny asked if one of them left a club behind. Oops! They had.

At the turn they let us play through. Unfortunately, the foursome in front of them was playing slow too. We could’ve jumped in front of them had we not opted for a break, but Kenny went in to stock up on Gatorade. I still had one in my bag.

As luck would have it, I pulled my drive hard right and into the trees on hole #10. Rather than a mulligan I decided to take my medicine. That was a bad move. The ground all around the area where I went out of bounds was mushy, wet mud in tall grass. I took two unsuccessful swings at the ball before picking it up and carrying it near where Kenny’s ball lied. I took a nine.

Luckily, I regrouped and went on a mini tear paring or bogeying the next several holes. Holes 16 & 17 I struck the ball really well but had nothing but a bogey and a double to show for it. But then hole #18 proved really unkind. I hit a straight but weak tee shot and tried to muscle my 2nd shot only to roll it about 80 yards. My next 3 wood left me still about 130 yards out. There was a tall tree between me and the green. I hit a PW as high as I could but couldn’t clear the tree. My ball careened into the crap to the left. Took me two more shots to get on and then I 3 putted for my 2nd nine of the back half. After tow nines I shot a 51 on the back bring my 18 hole total to 98. Kenny beat me fared much better shooting a 94. I gave up 5 or 6 strokes on the last three holes alone.

Regardless, it felt good to get in 18 holes. It was 315p. We headed for home. Kenny made a brief stop at some mini-mart in Commercial Point to get another Gatorade. I decided to wait until home. I hoped to be home before 4p to intercept the kids off the bus. Mindy texted earlier asking if I would. I responded that I’d try, but let her know that play was extremely slow.

Kenny dropped me at home at 350p. Much to my surprise, Mindy was already home. I went right for a big glass of ice water. The AC felt terrific.  I asked Mindy how good a job the hot tub removal guys did. She didn’t know. Hadn’t even considered giving it a look. I walked out to see for myself. I worried that they might leave all the crud and scrappy pieces, but they didn’t. Cleaned up nicely and left our yard undamaged. Excellent. Now I’ll need to decide what to do with the hole in the deck.

The kids arrived home less than ten minutes after me. Mindy asked how I felt about taking and retrieving Bella from gymnastics. No problem. Mindy was tired and headed upstairs for a nap. I did some reading from the deck until it was time to call Bella in for a quick dinner and a change of clothes. It wasn’t quite 530p when I walked over to Emily’s to fetch her.

She asked that I fix her a Hebrew National hot dog for dinner while she changed into her gymnastics uniform. I made myself a hot dog at the same time only mine was a Ballpark brand. I don’t care much for the Hebrew National’s. Bella ate hers plain. I rolled mine in a burrito tortilla with a load of melted cheddar. It was good.

We left for gymnastics at 545p arriving a few minutes early. As soon as Bella headed inside I had to decide whether to head back home or elsewhere. Last second I decided to make a stop at Target. It took a while to get there. They’ve finally started the long overdue widening project on
Hilliard Rome Rd.

At Target I picked up a new pair of sunglasses, a towel specifically designed to dry a car after washing to replace my worn shami, a bottle or Wet Tire, and a new Coleman queen sized air mattress. We have two already that we originally bought for camping, but the one we keep in the spare room for guests leaks, and it’s getting worse. I’ve been looking to replace it for several months. They were on sale for $26 or $3.99 off. Now was the time. I thought about buying an oscillating stand fan for the deck too, but my hands were full and I didn’t have a cart. Perhaps another time.

I had a little back and forth with the Target checkout girl. Wanted to charge me full price for the Coleman mattress. She phoned a clerk to fetch a price check. He called back stating the full price. I referred him to the big sign nearby. He confirmed my position - $26, but added that the sale had expired. Not my problem. The cashier gave me the posted sale price.

It was only 635p. I was back at the gymnastics studio five minutes later. Mindy called after waking from her nap to check on my whereabouts. Shared my decision to stay out until gymnastics was over. I put the seat back and took a brief nap. At the same time, there was a call-in show discussing Tressel’s resignation and Terrell Pryor’s future. Things aren’t looking too good right now in Buckeye land.

I headed inside at 658p. Bella was in the office sitting on Grandma Sharon’s lap. I gave Sharon a hug then Bella and I left for home. She asked if we could stop for ice cream but I nixed that notion. As soon as we arrived home she ran off to play.

I enjoyed some of the fried chicken Mindy picked up at Kroger on her way home from school. I then headed out to water the flowers front and back. I headed back inside around 8p. I spent the next hour or so writing in my blog. I checked my Blackberry, too, hoping to get some news regarding the job I interviewed for. Nothing yet.

We tucked the kids into bed just after 915p then headed to bed ourselves.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Tressel, Tawny, & Tim McGraw

I purposefully got up earlier than I wanted to facilitate a golf outing with Kenny. We never nailed down a specific venue or a specific time beyond soon after my morning run. I got up close to 7a.

I treated it much like any other morning, making coffee then doing calisthenics. I headed out with Eiknarf next. It was already sunny, hot and steamy – 72 degrees. We walked at a leisurely pace then returned home where I enjoyed the morning’s first cup of coffee.

I’m thinking it was just after 8am when I dressed and left for my run. I ran just three miles since I’d be golfing all morning and early afternoon. I ran up one heck of a sweat. These tight fitting short sleeved wicking shirts seem to cause an inordinate amount of sweating.

I was back at home just after 830a. I poured Mindy some coffee then headed up for a shower. Shared my plans to golf with Mindy. We talked about golf the day before, but we also talked about playing volleyball at nephew Joe’s. She was good with me golfing. I was quick with my shower and was downstairs by 9am. Jacob was up and asked if he could go. Was OK by me, just needed to run it by Kenny.

Called Kenny at 9a. He sounded tentative about golf. Had plans for a late afternoon cookout too, and would need to be home by 3p at the latest. I suggested we skip golf on Monday and plan instead on Tuesday. It’s the day I offered up originally anyhow. If nothing else, getting up, exercising and running before 830a gave me lots of unplanned time. Mindy got up shortly after 9a and joined Jacob and I downstairs. Shared that we wouldn’t be golfing after all.

I wasn’t immediately sure what I’d do but knew I’d find something to keep me occupied. Bella asked about planting her garden like I had promised since last fall. The only problem was that her mother and I filled the spot in question with flowers. Bella wasn’t pleased. Thinking it through more thoroughly, I knew we could find a way to squeeze it in. It was more important to keep my promise and do something that meant a lot to Bella.

I went to her room and offered that she and I go get some pepper plants at Lowes. Jacob asked if he could go to. Why not? As long as you don’t torment Bella, which he’d already been doing. Told Mindy that I was gonna stop at Advance Auto Parts to get her wiper blades replaced too. The kids and I left at 945a.

We stopped at Advance Auto Parts on
Cemetery Rd
first. I bought some wiper blades and another quart of transmission fluid for the Trooper, just in case. I asked the counter person if they would install the wiper blades. It’s a service they provide free of charge. An older gentleman met me out there to put ‘em on. Took no time at all. While out there he asked if I had been following the morning news. No, I replied. Why? Said that OSU football coach Jim Tressel resigned that morning. No fooling? Wow!

We tuned into 97.1 The FAN on our short drive to Lowes. Yep, sure enough. It was all over the headlines. At Lowes we walked through the nursery looking for small pepper plants. But all their vegetables were outside and in these pint-sized biodegradable cups for $2.98 each, and that was for one plant. The plants themselves, however, were no bigger than those that come 3 per pack at Straders for $1.49. Not wanting to drive all the way to Strader’s, I decided to bite the bullet and buy three plants there. We chose one each of the red, yellow, and green. I also picked up a one-sized-fits-all cocoa shell liner for a hanging basket. We headed for home.

It was only 1030-1045a but already hot. Bella and I planted the pepper plants in the same vicinity we grew them last summer. I let her do all the digging and planting. I used cut off tomato cages to surround/protect them. I had her water them in real good. She was quite pleased. We shoved plant labels into the ground by each of the plants for ease of identification. She quickly rain off to play with her friends in her swim suit.

Mindy was heading off to the grocery. While she was out I transplanted more impatiens and petunias in the old hanging baskets then suspended them from the red maples just off the deck. I filled the hummingbird feeder with nectar, and added what was left of a 20lb bag of bird seed in the two feeders.

At long last, it was time to prep Mindy's fountain. I thought I might wait until next weekend after the hot tub was gone, but decided this was the day. I carried up both sections from the shed then went to the garage for the guts I so carefully winterize each fall. I almost forgot about the new light kit we bought for it in what now seems like eons ago. That was way back in the first week of April. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the new light kit comes with a dusk-to-dawn sensor. That'll save some electricity. I took my time prepping the fountain, and as hard as I scrubbed the residual algae away last fall, there was still some present. A lot of it that was left was now flaking away, and what didn't flake off, scrubbed off with relative ease. I rinsed it well before filling and then strategically placed my collection of sea shells in and around it. Looks awesome.

After finishing the fountain I headed inside to prep some lunch. I put my leftover reuben in the oven for 20 minutes. While my sandwich warmed, I watered in all the flowers I planted out back over the last two days next. I headed inside to eat my sandwich. It was hot and crisp, just like I hoped.

Next up, adding more transmission juice to the Trooper. I pulled it into the garage after unfolding the large piece of cardboard I used last week. This time it went much smoother. While under there I discovered that several of the bolts holding the transfer case tight against itself were at least somewhat loose. It's the same area that appeared to be leaking. I tightened them, albeit carefully. I took it on a quick test drive around the block where it performed well. By the way, it took just a pint before it started to spill out the overflow.

After parking the Trooper I pulled the BM'er into position for a bath. Driving it last week in the rain left it dirty. It didn't take too long to get it sparkling clean. Once I was done with the BM'er I watered in the front flowers. Mindy got home from the grocery while I was watering. I had to back the Honda up the drive so she could unload the groceries. She was too paranoid with the BM'er out at the end of the drive. Good plan!

I failed to mention that I did most of the front yard work without a shirt. I had Mindy rub me down with sunscreen before she left for the grocery store. I got smidge of sun without burning ... perfect!

We planned to grill out with the neighbors around 5 or 6p. It was only 3-330p. I used the next hour to do some reading from the comfort of the chaise lounge on the lower deck. It's a perfect spot - mostly shade, but with a splash of sunshine. I must've sat out there for at least an hour reading and napping. Heavenly!

I needed a shower. I headed in to get one. It didn't take me long. Mindy headed down to the neighbors for the cookout ahead of me. She carried down the green bean casserole. I followed a few minutes behind with Eiknarf and a glass of ice water.

Chrissy sister Missy and her husband Guy were there. Haven't seen them since the Tim McGraw concert. Kenny's cousin was there with her boyfriend. Hadn't met her before. Two guys that work for Kenny, Ivan and Scott, were there too. Scott was on the phone with his girlfriend giving her directions to Kenny's. I asked if she was hot. He said she was and better show up looking spectacular since it was taking her so long. Imagine then my surprise when she showed up and it ended up being my cousin, Tawny. I was caught completely off guard, so was Tawny, but so was Scott. Tawny later said she was worried when she saw my face. Said she remembered that I lived two houses down once she pulled up.

After the initial shock wore off, I reintroduced Tawny to Mindy, who was out talking with others n the deck. Ben & Ryan arrived a short time later. They're always a lot of fun. Our kids spent the day with the O'Connell's at some lake near Groveport fishing and swimming. They showed up at Kenny & Chrissy's just after we finished our steaks, which by the way, Kenny sprang for and grilled all the steaks (NY strip and filets).  I ate just half a NY strip. I was saving room for beer. Kapil and Pabina stopped over a little later.

It was now after 9p. Mindy and the kids had school the following day. Before leaving for home, I exchanged contact information with Tawny, programmed her into my phone. Lastly, we listened to Chrissy's third and final speech. This time her topic was her favorite recording artist, Tim McGraw.

Mindy and the kids headed to bed while stayed up watching a little TV.  I didn't stay up too late, however, and can't even recall what I was watching. I'm guessing I headed to bed near 1030p.



Sunday, May 29, 2011

Tandoori Masala

I slept a little later than I did on Saturday but not by much. I was up by 715a. The sky was cloudy, but the forecast called for it to move out in a hurry. Within the hour it was fully sunny. Expecting it to reach 90 degrees too. That’s a quick switch. 

Because it was Sunday I didn’t plan on doing calisthenics, but did plan on running. I walked Eiknarf while the coffee brewed. We were out for about ten minutes like most other days.

I spent no more than 15 minutes online sipping coffee. I was eager to get my run completed. I dressed in fresh running clothes and headed out the door somewhere near 830a. It was completely sunny when I headed out. Mindy was still asleep in bed.

I ran the usual Sunday loop, just 3 miles. It was heating up in a hurry. Worked up one heck of a sweat. By the time I got back from my run Mindy was up and on the deck talking with Chrissy, who was back home after last night’s costume party. She didn’t stick around too long after I got back.

I didn’t have a ton of activities planned for the yard. Instead, we had two parties to attend: Kapil & Pabina’s going away party, and then Mindy’s three nieces b-day party. With the hour or so I had before the first get together, I transplanted leftover annuals into medium sized deck pots. The first get together was to begin at noon. That’s roughly the time I headed in for a shower.

We walked over to Kapil & Pibina’s around 1p. We took a card and a bottle of wine. Kapil’s parents were there along with a number of his friends and coworkers. Most of his peeps are doctors like he. In fact, one of his best buddies recently accepted a pulmonologists position in Portland, Oregon. Kapil’s headed off to Sacramento.

The catered food was really good- Indian cuisine. Very colorful stuff, and all very spicy.  Meanwhile, the afternoon was really heating up. Word was that it had already topped 90 degrees – our first scorcher! Jimaken dropped the kids at home near 3p. Mindy headed across the street to greet them. Surprisingly, neither wanted to return with her. When Mindy returned she said Bella didn’t feet well and Jacob was tired. They’d been swimming all day long.
We may have hung out for another 20 minutes before heading home to prepare for the nieces b-day party. We left the house around 340p.

I suggested we stop by Hugh White Honda so Mindy could see the new Civic. I promised it would only be a drive through – wouldn’t stop. The kids, of course, pleaded that we not, but Mindy was game. The sales guy I met last week told me that they’re typically open on the last Sunday of the month but that they’d be closed since it’s a holiday weekend. Well, he was wrong. The dealership was alive.

It just so happened, they had a 2012 black Civic EX-L right up front just like the one I built online. We stopped and took a peek inside. Mindy really liked it. As promised, we quickly headed off for Todd’s.

We arrived shortly after 4p, but even then we were still some of the last to arrive. We had to park out along the quiet road. The party was an outdoor yard party, and it was an excellent day for it. Most folks sought out some shade. Us Ohioans haven’t yet acquired our 2011 sun tolerance. The spread was plentiful and good. A couple of us started at the wrong end of the line and used the birthday cake plates for our food. Mindy’s mom made  a couple derogatory comments about those of us that followed that same pattern. It must be tough being perfect.

Todd had a few George Killian’s stashed in the water cooler. I partook in one of those. It was refreshing, especially given the sweltering summer heat. Nephew Joe arrived late. Mindy and I chuckled that he must’ve been at home sleeping it off. Todd has a nice trampoline in his big back yard. In kind, Mindy took the opportunity to run through the ‘Thompson’ technique – it’s one I think I’ve seen all of her sibs do a time or two. Todd did it a little later, although a bit daringly.

Cake and presents were next. The Barbie ice cream cake was a huge hit, especially with the kids. Bella, however, made ice pops into dinner. She must’ve had 4 or 5 of them. She was wearing the red one on her pretty white summery blouse. Oh well.

We hung out with family until 7p or so. I didn’t hear any of it, but apparently Mindy’s  mother was running us down to anyone that would listen for not having anything for our kids to do in our yard. Mindy felt inclined to defend our honor by showing off pics of yard to those gathered around. Mindy was incensed and shared as much on our drive home. Because I didn’t hear it, I wasn’t too bothered. I realized a while ago that there’s nothing I can do to please Gloria. Can’t control how she feels or what she says. What I need to do is please myself, and, well, Mindy. J

As we passed the auto mall I joked about pulling in again. The kids let out a resounding no! We were home a couple minutes later. I was excited to sit in the cool AC. Mindy and the kids quickly headed back down to Kapil & Pabina’s. Mindy returned a few minutes later encouraging me to join them. Said Kenny & Chrissy were there and all the kids were having fun. Said I’d be down in 5-10 minutes.

A majority of their guests had departed, but the party still going on. The kids had the hose out and were spraying one another. Kapil was noticeably  buzzed. He allowed the kids to soak him with the hose. Kapil’s parents, Raj and Gita were quite patient with all of us crazy Americans. Very warm and inviting. Gita kept replenishing the snacks. I initially brought over two beers and eventually went back for two more.

As darkness set in the party moved inside. Mosquitoes were really starting to bite. The conversation eventually turned to religion. We joked that Chrissy always is trying to save the world. Kapil and his parents were raised Hindu. They remain open to any religious beliefs others may hold separate from theirs. They made that very clear – nonjudgmental. Still, I am very weary of talking religion especially when drinking.

We probably hung out until almost 11p. Kapil was falling asleep on the sofa, and Makayla and Bella were sound asleep on Pabina’s cousin’s shoulder. Discovered Kenny headed off for home about an hour before everyone else. He and I made plans to golf the following morning. Mindy the kids and I headed to bed as soon as we got settled in at home.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

The Savannah Brewing Company

Though still sleepy and groggy, I was unable to stay in bed any longer. I crawled out of bed near 645a. Much to my dismay, clouds were the prevailing feature despite a forecast calling for an abundance of sunshine. I started a pot of coffee then completed exercises while also shaking off the cob webs.
I headed out with Eiknarf sometime after 7am walking around the backyard as well down the street. While on our walk I contemplated all I hoped to accomplish this long holiday weekend. More pointedly, I hoped to plant flowers, facilitate the removal of the hot tub, and cut the lawn that day. However, before doing any of that I wanted to enjoy some coffee then a run.
I spent another 50 minutes on the PC enjoying coffee before getting dressed for a run. It was about 825a when I headed out the door. It was an enjoyable run and one that ushered in the sunshine that I craved. Finally! By the time I was back at home blue skies had fully taken over the sky. Mindy was still sleep and remained in bed when I headed out to get started in the yard
I was eager to plant flowers, but before any of that I needed to disconnect the power feed to the hot tub. It took about 15 minutes to free the 220v feed from the hot tub cabinet. I already had the external disconnect pulled. With the hot tub now ready for removal, it was time to do some planting.
I've had a Bose iTouch docking station since Xmas 2009. I used it for the first time on Saturday. It made the planting that much more enjoyable. I started with the trailing plants I bought for the deck pots. I'm guessing it was near 10a when Mindy finally got up and joined me on the deck in her PJs. I reminded her that the hot tub removal guys were expected to show around 11a.
After finishing the deck pots I moved around to the front stoop to transfer a hanging basket of purple New Guinea Impatiens into the large pot resting there. I took the Bose docking station with me. I broke the four large plants in the original hanging basket into their individual plants so I could add a spike and a couple asparagus ferns. That went well. By design, I picked up a lot of dead English Ivy leaves that had fallen off the vines over the past couple weeks.
Next, I planted Wave petunias in the two large front beds. I bought two flats but didn't expect to sue them all. I've decided that less is more. In years past I've spent a small fortune on Wave petunias, some years buying as many as 8 flats. Because we have the blue May Salvia circling both beds we only need to add one row of petunias. Mindy headed off to yoga while I was out front planting. I did a cursory watering as I went along. I planned a more thorough watering later.
After finishing out front I took a brief break. I think I made some food but can't recall what I ate. I soon headed back outside to start on the lawn. I whacked, edged, cut, and blew. Got a tad over heated while cutting out front in the bright sunshine. Happens frequently. Mindy got back from yoga while I was finishing up the lawn.
After finishing the lawn I washed the Honda inside and out. Unless I'm mistaken, don't think it's had a thorough cleaning since last Memorial Day, though we may have vacuumed it a time or two between then and now. Mindy came out while I was washing away ready to leave. Can't recall where she was headed but believe it was Target. I still hadn't washed the outside. It took a good 45 minutes to vacuum and clean the inside (think dirty). Aside from the small dent in the back, it looked almost new once I finished giving it a bath. I showed Mindy why her wiper blades do such a sucky job. They're split!
As soon as the Honda was finished, Mindy headed off to Target. And since I had the hose out, I watered in the freshly planted petunias. That didn't take long at all. Still so much I wanted/needed to get done. Next up, I got out my soil, peat and sand mix to further overseed the few remaining bare spots in the west side yard.  The overseeding I did a couple weeks back is really taking hold, and I knew I'd have some additional spot seeding to do later. Now was later. Because all the grass is coming in so thick it would help hold the new soil and then provide a little shade to the new seed.
While working in the seed/soil mixture, Chrissy & Kenny brought Woody over. We agreed to keep him overnight while they went to Rachel's 30th b-day party. They planned to stay the night. I offered to tend to Molly as well. Asked for a key. Again, the b-day party was also an 80's costume party and they looked the part. Kenny was sporting a serious mullet and Chrissy Cindy Lauper look. I took a number of photos.
Not sure the time when Mindy got home but I'm guessing it was near 5-6p. Before or just after my shower we decided to go out for dinner. I suggested the new restaurant/pub in Grandview - Matt the Millers Tavern, though I couldn't remember the full name at the time. Mindy agreed. I'm thinking it was near 630-7p when we headed that way.

Grandview Ave
was alive with humanity. We parked at a meter just north of Matt the Millers Tavern. We used a credit card to cover the cost of parking. There were artisans everywhere selling their wares along the streets.  We looked at a few pieces of jewelry. There was another artisan whose work caught my eye. This guy creates custom greeting cards on the spot for $2. That’s a great idea.
Matt the Miller’s is located in the brand new construction that replaced the buildings that burnt to the ground a year or two ago. The new construction looks awesome. We were seated right away, and our server’s name was Beth. I eventually ordered a CBC Hop Odyssey  Uncle Rusty. Mindy went with an English stout. Can’t recall the exact name. We ordered a hummus plate as an appetizer.
The décor is was very pleasing to my eye with lots of rich colors and black wood work. We especially liked the faux tin ceiling panels, which is something I’d like to consider for our eventual basement remodel project. Being a creature of habit, I ordered their reuben sandwich with fries. Mindy ordered that black and blue flat bread. The reuben was built with both corned beef and pastrami and had an unusual but tasty slaw topping. The rye bread could’ve been thicker. I ordered a 2nd beer, a Sublimely Self-Righteous.
We wrapped up dinner around 8pm. I picked up the check. Before leaving, I suggested we make a quick stop at the Fish Market. Mindy quickly questioned my thinking. My reasoning was sound. I wanted some Bohdi, and I was certain they’d have some on tap. We made the short drive to the Fish Market and headed straight to the bar.
Janie was tending bar. I remembered her from our last visit which was after the Mannheim Steamroller concert last December. As hoped, they had the Bohdi on tap. There were only a couple other patrons in the bar. We carried on an extended conversation with Janie, who is very friendly and bubbly. Mindy asked if she knew Bob & Mary Ann. She didn’t know them by name, but remembered them easily after Mindy described them.
I ended up drinking 2.5 Bohdi’s – the extra half because Janie topped off my first pint as a joke. Mindy enjoyed one glass of wine. While sitting at the bar, Mindy received a call from Joe-Joe asking for a ride. He was obviously buzzed. When asked of his whereabouts he said Savannah, Georgia. Oh boy! He called back a few minutes later with an intersection of Franklin and Gilbert, said it looked like Savannah. We quickly Googled the location and told him to hang tight. We settled up our bar tab and went to retrieve Joe.
It didn’t take long for us to get there. We took 315S to 70E to 71N to the
Broad St
exit. The intersection in question was right around the corner. Sure enough, there was Joe. He was more buzzed than I’ve ever seen him before. Couldn’t recall how he got where he was. Said he wanted a ride to the Tipsy, a campus bar. Neither of us had heard of it but Mindy agreed to head that way. He didn’t want to go home. All of his roomies were supposedly there. We found it with little trouble, essentially at Lane and High. Joe insisted we join him, but Mindy said not. He then asked if I could join them – making it a boys night out. I was laughing hysterically. Mindy would have nothing of it. Frankly, I was surprised she agreed to drop him at the Tipsy instead of taking him home. The most important thing was that he wasn’t driving. Said he hadn’t eaten a thing all day long. That’s not good. We knew he’d be paying for that later.
We headed for home arriving around 1030p. Mindy headed down to the neighbors where she walked Molly while I walked both pugs at home. We headed to bed around 11p after another failed attempt at watching SNL.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Big Hair Cut Weekend

I was up on time. It was another cloudy start. I completed exercises then checked the weather. It was 62 degrees. Expecting partly cloudy skies with a high not expected to get much beyond 70. The weekend, however, promise sunshine and temps well into the 80's with an extended dry spell too.
Eiknarf and I did our ritualistic walk near 550a and we were out the usual ten minutes. Coffee was next, and it definitely hit the spot. For the sake of time, I kept meditation brief. Stretching took the typical 7 minutes and felt terrific. I delivered Mindy's coffee and the pug just ahead of 630.
Time to run. I dressed in summer running attire and headed out the door near 635a. Again, it was cloudy but warm. The air was thick and quite close. I ran the full 4.1 miles without even a hint of trouble and made it back home somewhere near 715a.
Eggs were ready and waiting. Mindy, the kids and I chatted gayfully about the long holiday weekend and the scant few 'get-ups' that remained to the school year - four to be exact.  Mindy departed at her usual time, and then the kids and I headed upstairs - me to the shower.
It didn't take me long to ready myself for work. My hair looked terrible (too long and all over the place). I hoped to get away at lunch for a haircut. I wore jeans and my CBC t-shirt. Before heading out to the bus stop I packed a lunch consisting of tuna, cheese, banana and fruit. The kids and I headed out at 757a.
I met Chrissy and Lillian at the bus stop. Lillian wasn't pleased that Makayla was staying home, at least for the morning, to accommodate a mid-morning dental appointment. Chrissy talked about Rachel's 30th b-day costume party Saturday night. We were invited but didn't think we'd be going. And speaking of Rachel, this was a Rachel day. Mindy was overjoyed. It's been 2-3 weeks. The bus arrived on time and soon the kids were off to school. I walked Eiknarf out front briefly before heading in to finalize preparations.
I left for work at 815a driving the BM'er, though with the top up. It was a fun, fast drive into the office. The morning was only moderately chaotic. Admittedly, my head was already looking forward to the long holiday weekend - a four day for me. Come lunchtime I left for two-destination trip. First stop was Strader's where I picked up a flat of Impatiens and then a flat of trailing basket stuffers. Amongst them, I found the bacopa that Mindy wanted along with some deep purple verbena and some asparagus fern.
I left Strader's and headed to Mill Run to get a haircut. Unfortunately, they were queued up 5 or 6 deep at Saturday's. Said it would be at least 35 minutes. I left and walked down to Great Clips, no more than five store fronts away. There were two others ahead of me, and the wait quoted at 5 minutes. I agreed to wait. The five minutes turned out to be more like ten, but that was OK. Four others came in soon after me. I hadn't given it much consideration prior, but it was the day before a big graduation party weekend along with a holiday.
The young lady who cut my hair did a good job. I didn't really want it cut as close as usual. Great Clips is $4 or $5 cheaper than Saturday's and every bit as good. The only difference is they don't shampoo you at Great Clips unless you ask, and then it's an extra charge. It's a service i have no need for. Believe it or not, I wash my own hair every day.  I didn't bother having the young lady put any lube in my hair. Instead, I planned to do it myself once back at the office. I was back shortly after 2p. The after moved quickly. I was eager for the weekend. Scott, the gentleman that interviewed me on Tuesday pinged and asked if I could stop up. Agreed to meet at 415p. Glad I got my hair cut at lunch.
Headed up at 415p. I thought he was gonna offer me the job right then, but he did not. Instead, he wanted to ask a couple more questions and clarify some things. It was a brief, informal meeting. Once again, I left feeling good about my prospects. And hey, even if I don't get the new gig, I still have my current job.
My boss and I got roped into a last minute conference call that went until 615p. Oh boy! I wrapped up for the day and prepared to leave just after 630p. My boss wished me a good three day weekend. I reminded him that I submitted for Tuesday as a personal day. No problem. See ya Wednesday!
I arrived home near 6p. The house was quiet and clean. Rachel had been there earlier in the day, the kids gone with their dad, and Mindy was off to dinner with Laura, a longtime friend who was in town from Jersey. After stowing my work gear, which always feels terrific, I headed back to the BM'er to unload the flowers I bought at Strader's. I spent a little time on my PC updating my blog until around 730p.
Mindy called shortly thereafter to say that she was on her way home. Bought me some XXIPA while at the Giant Eagle wine tasting event. Said that nephew Joe planned to join us at Barley's. Mindy wasn't home long before we left for Barley's. I'm guessing we arrived near 8p. Standing in the parking lot by the entrance were Bob & Mary Ann talking to Scott and Linda Pansing. Bob & Mary Ann rode their bicycle built for two. Looks like it's been cared for over the years. They locked it to a parking lot tree then headed inside with us.
Mindy's friend Phyllis was there already too, as was Steve Wonn and Little Rick. I had just received started on my first beer, a Hoptopus, when nephew Joe came in. And then not too far behind him were his parents (my sister & brother-in-law) Jodi & Larry. Jodi & Larry came in first and foremost to meet Justin, Joe's new friend. A few minutes later two of Joe's buddies, Chad and Cheech arrived. Chad's parents were there too. But that wasn't all. Tom Clark showed up a little later as did our neighbor Darwin. Quite the crowd. Joe invited us to stop over Monday for volleyball. We'd be seeing Mindy's entire family on Sunday afternoon at Todd & Missy's place where we'd be celebrating Mia, Sophie, and Lindy's b-days.
Throughout the evening I drank a total of four beers - 2 Hoptopus, a Sublimey Self-Righteous, and a Maharaja. Too much good stuff. I didn't eat a lick of food. Thinking it was near 1030-1045p when we left for home. Mindy drove.
We walked Eiknarf as soon as we got home. Checked for lights at the neighbors. It was pitch dark. Must've made it an early night. We headed for bed around 11p.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Bohdi - an Enlightening Double IPA




I was up on time, and guess what? It was raining again. This time, though, the rain was light and there didn’t seem to be any lightning or thunder like there was through the night. I put on my exercise shoes and headed to the living room where I whipped out 55 sit-ups.

After sit-ups I read headlines and checked the weather. It was 63 degrees with light rain. Expected it to rain throughout most of the day, too with a high temperature reaching the mid 70s. Looking ahead we should be getting a reprieve from the rain with temperatures heading into the upper 80’s just in time for the Memorial Day weekend. Nice!

I did push-ups next. Afterwards, Eiknarf and I headed out for our walk. We headed east, which is rare for the two of us. It’s a shorter walk, but one that seems to promote quicker relief. I can only assume because there’s a stronger cache of ‘other dog’ scent on those lawns. J

It was trash day, but ours wasn’t out yet. I quickly remedied that once we got back home. Good thing too. They came to pickup while I was stretching.  After meditation and stretching I delivered Mindy’s coffee. She was already in the shower so I set it atop the chest of drawers by our closet then gave her a kiss (touch one). I then headed to downstairs to quickly dress and depart for my run.

It was still sprinkling as I headed out the door, but it stopped shortly thereafter. That left it extremely humid which lead to a whole lot of sweating. The run went well, however. And by the time I got back from my run the sky was clearing and some sunshine was peaking through. It’s done that a lot this week.

Mindy was making scrambled eggs but they weren’t quite ready. I used those few minutes before breakfast was ready to remove the large drain plug to the hot tub allowing what water remained to quickly drain out. Bella came out to ask/see what I was doing. She wants us to get another hot tub, but the truth is we rarely use it. Not worth the expense. I can’t imagine there are too many folks that buy a second hot tub. And most hot tubs don’t make it even five years before breaking down.

Eggs were ready. Mindy shared that there were plenty still in the pan for Eiknarf, and that was after Bella decided she’d have some too. She was slow to decide on her breakfast item, which, for whatever reason, is becoming more the norm. This was field day at Beacon Elementary, although, according to the kids, it would be held inside since the school’s field is a swampy mess and they don’t want the school’s hallways getting muddy on the day of the art show. Jacob expressed total disdain. Bella seemed indifferent.

Don’t think I shared that Bella totally defaced her school yearbook earlier in the week. They just got 'em last week. Like a lot of other kids, it started out as having her friends sign it, but that deteriorated into using black indelible marker to color over the faces of several school mates – probably 50-100. Pages were ripped apart too. Mindy & I weren’t happy. We told Bella she’d be using her allowance to buy a replacement ($13).

I also learned the night before during pillow talk that Jacob used his own money to buy his friend Noah a yearbook, apparently after assuming that his family couldn’t swing the extra expense. I was touched. That’s a huge act of kindness from an 11 year old boy. Very proud of him.

Mindy left for school at her usual time, and I headed off to the shower a couple minutes later. Bella gave Eiknarf half the scrambled eggs we put on her plate, and there were still plenty in the pan. I placed those in a container and stowed them in the fridge for Friday.

I was showered and dressed for work by 750a. I used the time between then and bus stop time to cut up cheese. I still had Wednesday’s salad and fruit in the fridge at work. The kids and I headed out the door at 757a. The pugs really went at it while waiting on the bus, way more than usual. Chrissy suggested they have a play date later in the day.

Eiknarf and I headed back home after the bus left. She peed before heading inside. Not only did I pack up all of my gear, but loaded and ran the dishwasher, too. I took a cup of coffee to my computer where I purchased the new Lady Gaga release, Born this Way.

I didn’t leave for work until 820a or slightly after. I drove in with the top down but put it up before heading inside. Still a strong chance of rain.

Arriving at work, things were well under control. And while we were busy, it never got too out of control. Come 1pm I left the premise for lunch and headed to deMonye’s, which is out near the airport to buy Wave petunias. They always have plenty even after the more popular garden centers are picked over. Sadly, it was cloudy and threatening rain. I had to do the drive with the top up.

It’s quite a haul from Hilliard. Took me about 20-25 minutes to get there. The advantage to showing up at lunch time on a workday was a smaller crowd. But I was surprised there were as many people there as there were. Having made this pilgrimage a few years past, I knew right where to go. As I hoped, they had lots of healthy flats of various colors to select from. And while it’s tempting to buy the fuller more mature looking flats, I’ve learned that those plants end up being too spiney when separated from the others. Instead, I was looking for smaller, more compact Waves. I found two flats that met that criteria as well as the right color – purple (not the deep bluish purple, though).

I looked at some perennials too, but selected nothing else. I was surprised at checkout when she quoted me $60, or $30 per flat. I could’ve sworn they were $19.98 per. She assured me that I was incorrect. I thought about walking back out to that area to prove it to her and myself, but decided to just go ahead and pay and get. I loaded my two flats of petunias into the BM’ers trunk and headed back to Hilliard. The drive back seemed to go much faster. I was back by 215p. Not bad. Gone about 75 minutes.

In my office, I enjoyed my salad, cheese, and fruit. My boss called me to his office to show me an informal note from the guy who interviewed me. Wanted to know if he could have me in two weeks. His answer was yes. I hadn’t received an official offer and refused to assume anything until such a time. I stayed busy all afternoon dealing with the issues of the day, and there were plenty.

Meanwhile, it was a Jimaken Thursday, so to that end, I hoped to get away a tad early. Mindy and I exchanged a couple texts late afternoon. We pretty much agreed that we’d be going to CBC for dinner. I was more than eager to try May’s Hop Odyssey, Bohdi – a double IPA.

To that end, I left the office at 520p. The skies were looking rather ominous, and even more so than earlier. The clouds directly overhead were darn near purple. It stayed dry for the entire commute home. And by the time I arrive there, it started looking a bit more benign out west.

My dad’s trailer was still in front of the house. Mindy & I both chuckled that he most likely forgot about picking it up. We chatted briefly about our day then brushed up for dinner at CBC. It couldn’t have been quite 6p when we departed.

I kept an eye out to the east looking for a rainbow. The sun was breaking through the thinning clouds out west against a dark cloud covered sky in the east. I never did see one. During our drive downtown, Mindy shared her frustration with her new principal, Jim. Never follows through, and sounds to be very disorganized.

We hit a traffic jam near the 70E/71S meet point. It was slow crawling from there. Luckily, we didn’t have that far to go before the Front St exit. The CBC parking lot was jam packed, and probably more so than ever before. Lucky for us, someone was just backing out of the few spots just to the north of the building (not the main lot). We took that spot in a hurry.

Inside, the bar was packed too. Mindy got one of the last stools and quickly shared that the two young women next to her would be leaving soon. Jamie was working the bar. Without being asked, she poured me a sample of the Bohdi. Yum-yum! I deemed it gooooooood. Bring me five gallons, I proclaimed! CBC has a knack for brewing quality IPA with a citrusy, piney background that’s bitter yet without an unwanted (bad) after taste. This is right up there with the 12 Hops of Xmas. I was very happy.

Mindy? Not so much. Still no stout on the tower. She actually liked the Bohdi, but apparently not enough to get one for herself. She opted for a Patron & Gran Marnier  margarita. We watched Jamie make it. Wow! It was almost all booze – added only freshly squeezed orange and lime juice.

I finished my beer before ordering any food. Mindy order calamari and their salmon dinner. She was going all out! I ordered wings and a 2nd Bohdi. I took a number of photos from the bar, some of the skyline, but then some of unsuspecting patrons. One fella got a little perturbed when he caught me snapping a photo of him using my self timer function. I guess he saw the LED flickering, which I never gave any thought too. I had the flash disabled. When he called me out I quickly denied and showed him the 2nd most recent shot which was the downtown skyline. He backed off in a hurry.

We very much enjoyed our visit to CBC, but then again, when don’t we? Kate was serving tables, which is the first time I’ve seen that. Said she might see us at Barley’s on Friday. Remember, her boy friend is a new manager there – Zach.

Mindy agreed to pickup the tab. After all, she accounted for 67% of it. I agreed to drive home. That margarita was powerful. We arrived home I’m guessing around 740p. We beat the kids home by about five minutes. I think that we were on the deck when they came in.

At some point I found my way to the sofa while snacking on some pita chips. I was still hungry. Wings rarely fill me up. I tuned the TV to a program about the planet, but can’t recall the gist of it. It wasn’t long before I drifted off to sleep. I didn’t wake until 1005p, and everyone else was already in bed. I took my time making sure the house was secured and shut down. I crawled in bed just before 1030p.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Holding Church from Bed

 Slept maybe five minutes late, but that was hardly enough to throw me of course. There were clear skies over head, but unfortunately they didn’t last. By the time I did my calisthenics and headed out with Eiknarf it was clouding over in a hurry. We might’ve been out for 10 minutes.

Back at home I poured some coffee and returned to my PC for a few minutes. There, I read the Daily OM and scanned through brother Glenn’s blog. I also checked the forecast more thoroughly. Expecting strong storms and a high around 80. If the past couple days were any indication, there’d be plenty of sunshine mixed in too. At least I was hoping so.

I finished meditation and stretching around 625a. Both went well. Felt positive about life. I delivered the pug and coffee upstairs to Mindy, who was already mid-shower. I gave her a kiss, which constituted the first of 15 daily touches she’s requested. I planned to tap her on the shoulder to account for the other 14 touches, but that would have to be later. J

I dressed in my summer running attire and headed out the door at 635a. And while the sunrise was masked by the cloud cover, it was already showing signs of clearing overhead to the west. I ran the full 4.1 miles without any strife. Most of my thoughts centered around Tuesday’s job interview and what to do about my Trooper. However, I wasn’t stressing over either by any means, but instead just contemplating my immediate future.

The sun busted through the clouds at the run’s conclusion. That was uplifting. Once back at home I quickly shedded my sweaty shirt then headed out on the deck to take a peek at the recently planted flowers and new grass. The new grass is thickening up fast. The flowers were undisturbed, which was all I was hoping for. Deer can make a meal of my recent plantings in one fell swoop.

I enjoyed my fried eggs along with our usual breakfast banter. Mindy was still angry with me for the ‘boy cut’ comment. She shared as much and went as far as saying that she might not cook me dinner later that day. That upset Bella until Mindy assured her that she’d still be cooking for her. I wisely chose not to comment any further.  Mindy asked the kids to ride the bus home then gave Bella $20 for her lunch account. She left for work at or near 730a.

I had half my lunch packed before heading upstairs for a shower. There was no way I was going to go hungry again anytime soon. It felt good to get back into my ‘uniform’ - jeans and a black t-shirt. Felt like myself. I found myself downstairs early – 745a. I used the time to finish packing my lunch, including preparing a garden salad.

The kids, Eiknarf and I headed out at 757a. We met Chrissy, Woody, and the girls at the bus stop. We chatted briefly, about what I can’t readily recall. The weather was again gorgeous – sunny and already nearing 70. I planned to drive the BM’er. Eiknarf and I walked out front and long enough for here to take her second dump of the day.

I packed up all my gear and headed off to work in the BM’er near 815a. It was a lovely drive into the office.  I noticed gas prices now down to $3.55 per gallon after hitting about $4.20 two weeks ago.

The day started off with our weekly staff meeting. And I must say, I was a little surprised with the news my boss shared with the team. Meeting lasted about 40 minutes. I kept my phone clear and an eye out for a possible message about my second interview. Those details came around 1230p. It would be a phone interview at 230p.

I stayed busy into the afternoon and opted not to leave for lunch. I ate my packed food sometime around 1p. I did the phone interview at 230p as planned. Seemed to go really well. Once again, I got the impression that I was their guy, but one can never be sure until ‘the fat lady sings’. I definitely wasn’t gonna count my chickens before they hatched. Hey, that’s two cliché’s back to back.

Mindy called around 345p. Said she was on her way home. She asked if I had my 2nd interview. We then talked about her hair cut and my response. In the future I will not comment about my wife’s haircut. In the future I will not comment about my wife’s haircut. In the future I will not comment about my wife’s haircut. Only 497 to go!

The rest of the afternoon moved by in a hurry. But that’s nothing new, we’re always busy,  and time flies under those conditions. I managed to get out of the office at 540p. It was a nice summery afternoon, the temperature well above 80 degrees. I put the top down for drive home.  I did the same with the windows. It was a fun drive home.

Dad’s van was sitting out front. Inside I quickly greeted everyone then washed up for dinner. We were having grilled pork chops. They looked great and were about an inch thick. We had canned corn, garden salad, crescent rolls, and stuffing to boot. The chops were tender and juicy. Dad asked about the Trooper. I shared that it’s still slipping a little. May need more fluid.

Dad attended Mary Moore’s funeral service this week and shared that he ran into Gloria, Jodi, and Joe. We had no idea the connection, but Mary was Daniel’s (Joe’s bff) grandmother. And Daniel’s mom, Cheryl,  is a close friend of Jodi as well as a friend of ours. Mary worked with dad at National Graphics. Mentioned that he remembered meeting Shawn when he was 2 years old.   Small world.

The kids ran off to play after dinner. I managed clean-up while Mindy and dad carried on a conversation. I participated from afar. Dad said that he would come by on Thursday to pick-up his trailer that was still parked out front, understanding it a logistical problem for us with the Trooper being out of commission. He left for home around 730p.

After dad left I watered and fertilized the deck pots and hanging baskets. We sat on the deck for a short while leading up to Idol. We decided to watch the winner being crowned, and I’m glad we did. What a show. Not only did all of the top 13 perform, including my fave Haley, but there were lots of special guest appearances, too, including Tony Bennett who sang a duet with Haley. Tony Bennett is 85 years old! Tom Jones, Judas Priest, Tim McGraw, Marc Anthony, U2, and Lady Gaga were some of the others who performed. Lady Gaga was amazing. Steven Tyler and J.Lo were part of the show too. Steven performed Dream On. Great show. The actual announcement of the season 10 Idol winner was anticlimactic. Scottie won.

The show ran 2 hours and 7 minutes (odd). We all headed for bed as soon as it was over. I tucked Bella into bed. She was funny. Mindy & I held church from the pillow for about 15 minutes. We were asleep by 1030p.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Intraview

I was up a few minutes early and happy to report that the sky was completely clear with a half moon visible in the southern sky. The deck was wet after last night’s storm. I quickly slipped into my exercise shoes then started my calisthenics. In between sit-ups and push-ups I checked the weather via Yahoo. It was 64 degrees with an expected high of 76. Calling for a chance of rain all day long.  In fact, calling for rain the entire week.

Eiknarf and I headed out shortly after push-ups. It was nice to walk without the immediate threat of rain. My mind was racing and elsewhere thinking about my pending job intraview. I found myself walking the old Ykraps trail without even thinking about it.  We headed back home after Eiknarf took care of her business. It was coffee time.

I enjoyed coffee in front of my PC. I didn’t dwell there long, however. I wanted to stay slightly ahead of schedule. At 605a I headed to the family room for meditation and stretching. Both went well. During meditation I decided not to worry about the intraview. Make it fun. However, I planned to consider how I might answer the standard intraview questions during my run, which has always been a place for me to solve the world's concerns/issues/problems.

I delivered Mindy’s coffee and the pug around 620a. Mindy was just rolling out of bed. I helped her put it back together before heading downstairs to dress for my run. I wore summer running attire. By the time I headed out the door thin cloud cover had almost completely overtaken the sky. L Easy come easy go.

I ran the full 4.1 miles under dry skies. After Monday, I considered myself fortunate. During my run I contemplated my response to several basic interview questions. I felt at peace as my run drew to a close.  

As soon as I got home from my run I headed upstairs to iron the dress shirt I planned to wear to my interview. I planned to wear dress slacks and a tie as well. It didn’t take me long to iron my shirt. I haven’t used the iron in years.

During breakfast, Mindy asked if I was nervous or excited about my interview. I shared that I wasn’t, but that wasn’t entirely true. I was a tad nervous, but also confident. She expressed confidence in my strengths. Before leaving for school she reminded the kids to bus home to Noah’s and then wished me luck.

Jacob wasn’t 100% but was returning to school. He wanted to. I headed for a shower a couple minutes earlier than usual. I shaved with my quad bladed razor for only the second time in as many years. I don’t care for the clean shaven look at all, but it’s not about me. Sometimes it’s about the 'norm'. It took three tries to get my tie to hang just the way I wanted. I looked good but felt uncomfortable – unlike my real self.

I didn’t bother packing a lunch. Instead, I used the few minutes I had before bus time to prepare for my departure. I planned to drive the Trooper in again. The kids and I headed out at the usual time of 757a. Chrissy quipped about my snazzy attire – Interview, she asked? I said not. Didn’t want to talk about it.
After seeing the kids off on the bus I walked Eiknarf out front for a few minutes. She took a dump. I could feel the butterflies churning in my stomach knowing that I’d be in an intraview within the hour. After all, I hadn’t intraviewed for almost 14 years. I headed inside to grab my gear and head in to work. It was a Rachel cleaning day. Had it not been, I would’ve planned to return home to change clothes after the interview. As it was, I planned to simply remove the tie.

I arrived at work a couple minutes early. I was concerned about my team seeing me dressed up and then panic ensuing. I kept that in mind and took the back way into my office. I logged on but then quickly headed off to my intraview.

The intraview went about like I expected it might. I was confident but at the same time a little nervous. The nervousness quickly abated. I was honest about what I did and didn’t know technically. It's kind of funny, because over the years I’ve probably done 250 interviews asking some of the same questions. I found myself stumbling on a few that had I had more time to prep I would’ve totally nailed. I Am who I am however, and feel strongly that I conveyed that point. Nothing worse than overselling oneself.

I got really good vibes from the intraviewer. Seemed genuinely interested in bringing me onboard. We wrapped up after nearly an hour. Said he wanted to have another guy talk with me, a person I was somewhat familiar with. Figured in the next day or two. Said I’d have an answer by Friday. Cool. I walked back to my office relieved. I pulled off my tie before I got back to my office in the center.

A few folks commented about my more dressy than usual attire, but I simply downplayed it. I guess it’s the price one pays for wearing jeans and a black t-shirt almost every other day. My boss stopped by to get my thoughts. We talked about it for 10 or 15 minutes.

The only food I brought to work was a banana. I ate that around 10a. The weather did what it’s done for the past couple days, sun then clouds. A quick storm rolled through at some point. Can’t recall when that was. Nearing 1pm, I decided to take my lunch and headed to the Honda dealership to test drive both an Accord and a Civic. Trooper drove fine.

I met a kid named Tony right away, not the same Tony that sold us the Pilot, however. He was friendly and asked how I might be helped. Asked to test drive a new Civic EX-L if they had one. Found the keys to one that had just come in. It still had a foam bumper attached to the actual bumper and plastic over the aluminum wheels. Said the stereo wouldn’t work because they hadn’t yet prepped it. Made a copy of my driver’s license and turned me loose.

This was a 2012 Civic EX (not an EX-L) meaning it didn’t have leather seats. Otherwise, it would be a good representative of the model I was interested in. I noticed right away that it didn’t have power seats. That’s something I didn’t catch on the accessories sheet. Not even an option. It only comes in a 4-cylinder too. My guess is that they don’t want the Accord and Civic to compete with one another.
I loved the cool digital dash (speedometer and gas gauge). It was spunky, much like my Z3. However, there’s no mistaking it for anything other than a small car with a stiff ride. One would never mistake it for a luxury ride. But then again, that’s not its niche. Its reputation is that of a reliable, well built small car, and it boasts 39 mpg on the highway.

I didn’t go far after noticing that the fuel gauge was on E. I returned to find Tony out in the lot. I asked to drive the Accord EX-L next. He brought me a black one completely decked out. I realized right away, though that it was the 4-cylinder model. No since in that. I wanted to drive the V-6. He returned with an ugly maroon EX-L Accord with a tan leather interior. Can’t think of an uglier color, but it wasn't the color I was test driving.

I liked the feel of the Accord far more than the Civic. However, this was a 2011. The new Accords aren’t out yet and probably won’t be until September or even October. While 2012 won’t be a body style change, it will almost certainly come with more progressive technological features, comparable to that in the 2012 Civic.

I returned the car and chatted briefly again with Tony. He’s new to car sales, and I could tell. Never once did he try to sell me a car, or ask any probing/leading questions. I had to draw his attention to my Trooper through casual conversation. Neither car knocked my socks off or inspired me. I’m still a little jaded. Would prefer not to buy a new car at all if I could avoid it. What to do? I left after thanking Tony for the test drives.

I was gone from the office for about 90 minutes. I was crazy hungry but knew I didn’t have any food at the office. I’d simply have to tough it out. Lucky for me, one of my guys had a big bag of pretzels in his office. I enjoyed a couple handfuls of them mid afternoon.

The afternoon went by in a hurry.  I left the office at 525a. For one reason or another, I was super sleepy and had been since mid-morning. It might’ve been unrecognizable stress from the intraview and all. I called Mindy as I walked to the parking lot. We talked for about 15 minutes. She was curious abut the intaview. I shared what I knew. I then shared that I test drove the Civic and Accord at lunch. She was curious how that went too. Still undecided and largely unimpressed. She asked how the Trooper was holding up. I shared that it was fine while looking to knock on wood.

And don’t you know, at the next roundabout the transmission slipped, once again delivering fair warning that the problem was still there. I’m guessing it’s still low on fluid. Either that, or enough has since leaked out and it now needs more. Regardless, it got my full attention.

Before parting ways, Mindy reminded me that she was leaving to take Bella to gymnastics. From there she said she was running to Sam’s Club and almost certainly wouldn’t be home until after gymnastics. Jacob was staying home. Sounded like I’d be fending for myself relative to dinner.

I went straight for the peanut jar once I got home. I had two or three handfuls to help fend off my growing hunger. I didn’t want to stuff myself with them like I have a tendency to do sometimes. I put them away. After prepping Wednesday’s coffee I ate some cheese then decided to warm some of the leftover chicken and pasta. I topped it with two slices of pepper jack cheese. It was incredible! After my dinner I headed out to plant the cone flowers and canas. Carl gave us a bag with about 12-15 cana bulbs a couple weeks ago.

I planted them in the bed next to the A/C unit, which has proved to be a tricky spot over the years. A couple other items I’ve planted there lived a short life, and that includes a rose and butterfly bush. Not sure why, but suspect it’s because of the wildly varying conditions. Shady most of the day, but then it gets the harshest sunshine late afternoon. I’ve planted tomato & pepper plants there, too. They’ve typically done OK there long term but were prone to wilting in the late afternoon sun.

I spent about 30 minutes planting and then watering the cone flowers and canas. I then headed inside to wash up and nap. I fell asleep in the recliner in short order. Slept until Mindy got home. Don’t think I was out for more than ten minutes, but it was very restful sleep. Bella wanted to tune the TV to Idol, but it was only 730p. She watched some Nickelodeon or Disney Channel programming leading up to it.  Mindy invited me out onto the deck to sit and relax. It was a sunny & mild evening with very little humidity. All and all, a very nice evening for sitting on the deck.

Mindy was grading school papers. I went back inside twice. Once to get my BB gun to shoot the pesky geese, and then a second time to get a beer – a CBC IPA. After seeing my beer, Mindy went for one of her own. Jacob joined us a time or two. He was being awfully annoying. After the sun dipped behind the house, it actually got a little chilly. Both Mindy and I fetched our fleece jackets. We stayed outdoors until 8p or after. Neither of us had any interest in watching the Idol finale week. Sad, really. After all, we watched every week since January. But with our favorites out we couldn’t have cared less.

At some point Mindy shared that she got her hair cut again. I thought it looked freshly cut. She didn’t exactly ask for my opinion, but seemed to be prodding for my reaction. I shared my true feelings, which were displeasure. I don’t like her hair “boy short” or draping over her ears. I like it like I like it. Period! She wasn’t pleased with my candidness. I see no point in being anything but honest. I didn’t feel my comment was rude, but she obviously did.

Once we finally headed inside I went to the sofa recently abandoned by Bella. She was off to the shower. I quickly tuned the TV away from Idol and instead to one of the knowledge channels. I wasn’t enamored with any of the programming there either, but ended up on a crime solver type show. It was there that I fell asleep.

Can’t recall if Mindy woke me before she headed off to bed, but I’m thinking not.  I continued nesting on the sofa until waking at 1005p. I was still in my fleece but getting extremely warm. I wondered if Mindy might’ve turned on the furnace. She hadn’t, but the AC was off. As expected, she had our bedroom windows open.

I laid in bed for a few minutes, but like often happens after a restful sofa nap, I couldn't immediately fall back asleep. I ended up heading back downstairs to my computer where I edited four days worth of blog entries. All of the sudden it was near midnight. Suddenly, I was too tired to fool with publishing them. I headed for bed. I could see a few stars out the half moon window. Good night moon!

Monday, May 23, 2011

Rain Lightning Thunder Flowers & Sun

I was up at 530a. I noticed right away that it was raining – uhhh, actually storming. After brushing my teeth I headed downstairs where I quickly slipped into my exercise shoes then set my gaze out the back door at the rain.

I failed to set-up coffee the night before so I took care of that next. A couple minutes later I was busy whipping out my sit-ups and push-ups. It was raining pretty hard and the radar confirmed that it would continue to do so for a while. I delayed walking Eiknarf until there was a break in the rain. That came sooner than I guessed. We headed out at 6a. It was still raining, but not enough to justify the umbrella. We toughed it out.

We weren’t back home for more than five minutes when it really let loose. And this time it was accompanied by thunder & lightning. There was no way I was heading out for a run in that. I delivered Mindy’s coffee along with the pug around 635a. I was still downstairs contemplating my run and sipping coffee when Mindy came down from her shower. It was darn near 7a. She asked if I was already back from my run.

If I was gonna run before getting the kids on the bus I needed to be getting out the door in a hurry. The rain didn’t let up but the lightning subsided. I decided to head on out a couple minutes later.

I was just short of the two mile mark when a couple lightning strikes spooked me. The thunder was just a couple seconds behind. And that coincided with much harder rain too. Right then I made the decision to cut my run back to three miles. I don’t know that I’ve run any faster than I did covering that final mile. I was genuinely scared.

Mindy was moving the Honda from in front of Dad’s mulch trailer and up in the driveway as I ran by and in the house. It was 728a. Bella came to greet me right away. Said she was worried about me. Gave me a hug, even. Mindy came inside apologizing for not having a towel ready.  In the meantime, I was still trying to catch my breath.

Mindy had my eggs waiting in the microwave. She was all but finished with her own breakfast. Meanwhile, the rain didn’t let up. In fact, if anything, it started raining harder. The lightning, however, became more scattered. Before she left, Mindy reminded Bella to bus home as usual. Reminded me that Jimaken was coming to pick-up Jacob near 8a. Forgot to mention that Jacob was staying home from school ill. He was sporting a fever Sunday night and rules say that they must stay home.

I headed to the shower just ahead of 740a. It didn’t take me long. I was back downstairs and in the kitchen by 755a. I put together my lunch while Bella got in her shoes. It was still pouring rain so we decided to wait for the bus from the comfort of the garage. I still grabbed my umbrella so I could walk her to the bus once it pulled up.

Chrissy and Makayla walked down to join us. Chrissy said Woody needed to poop but hadn’t. Doesn’t like the rain. I took his leash and walked him out front with the aid of my umbrella. He went right away. The bus was about 5 minutes later than usual. Not sure why. She was just sitting down at the end of the street.

I planned on driving the Trooper, my thinking being that I might be taking a trip to the Honda dealership at lunch. It drove fine on Sunday. I really needed to run my dad’s trailer back too, but didn’t want to hitch it up in the pouring rain either. I did take a minute to raise the trailer jack to its highest point to help promote rain drainage.

I left for work at 820a, already five minutes later than desired. The rain was really coming down when I left the house. Traffic was backed up more so than normal at Wilson and Roberts. Last second, I noticed cop cars with their beacons going blocking the freeway entrance ramp. So even though I was in the left hand turn lane, I went ahead and made a right as soon as the light changed and took the back way into the office.  That would’ve been a huge burden.

It wasn’t until I arrived at work did I learn that both directions of traffic were shut down on I-270 between Roberts and
Hilliard Rome Rd.
Apparently a chemical truck tipped over. I sat chatting with my peer for the first hour of the day sorting out our new game plan. Our boss emailed that he wouldn’t be in until 10a. I think it was more like 11a when he finally arrived. He stopped by my office in passing to encourage both my peer and I to bid on this new job. Aside from that, it was a typical Monday.

The heavy storms continued through the morning hours, but as noon time neared the skies cleared out rapidly. The temperature shot right up too. Seeing the unexpected sunshine motivated me to make a lunch time run to Strader’s. I left near 1p. After last week’s Trooper debacle, I've been hyper sensitive to its ongoing operation. It ran fine, however.

At Strader’s I picked up two more hanging geraniums for the two ash tree baskets. I went with fuchsia this go around.  I bought four vinca vines too, and then five cone flowers – 2 white and 3 wildberry. Mindy asked for those. Their wave petunias, I noticed, were well picked over. What remained were ‘spindly’. I’ll most likely make the annual drive to deMonye’s to get some.

I took the time to peruse all of their perennials drinking in the spring/summer flora. Always does my heart good. The sky cleared fully by the time I made it back to the office – just gorgeous.

The afternoon moved along nicely. I enjoyed my packed lunch while working through a handful of issues. I also made arrangements for an internal job interview on Tuesday. Haven’t done that in years. Should be fun.

Talked with Mindy at some point late afternoon. She shared that it was 84 degrees. I let her know about the job interview and the flowers. Said we’d be having her spicy chicken pasta invention for dinner. Sounded good to me. I did my best to wrap up my day and get out on time. I actually left for home about five minutes early.

Traffic on I-270 moved along nicely, although they still had the far right southbound lane closed for the chemical clean-up effort. Word was that that section of freeway was closed for almost 10 hours.

Parked the Trooper in front of the house. Mindy was inside putting the finishing touches on her chicken pasta dish. Jacob was convalescing on the sofa. Said he felt quite a bit better, but still not perfect. Mindy said he still had a very slight fever.

I asked Mindy how much time I had before dinner. Five minutes. I went to the Trooper and carried the flowers I bought earlier around to the deck. I hoped to get them planted after dinner. It was 550p when Mindy served dinner. It looked really good. I asked for a bit more sauce, and so did Bella. Jacob had some too, although he ate very little.

I ate about 3/4s of what Mindy put on my plate. It was an awful lot. I stowed what remained in a Tupperware-type container. Mindy helped get what was left in the pan stowed too, but then left for another trip to the grocery to pick up a few items they were either out of or that she forgot on Saturday. Didn’t expect to be gone long.

I finished kitchen clean-up then headed to the livingroom where I planned to take a brief nap in the recliner. I closed my eyes for a few minutes but never did fall asleep. After sitting quietly for about five minutes I gained my second wind. I headed upstairs where I changed into shorts and t-shirt then headed out to transplant the geraniums into the hanging baskets with the vinca.

New neighbor Trena recently bought a brand new John Deere tractor, but she is still paying a service to mow her lawn. I asked her about it Saturday. She’s intimidated by the mower. Needs some direction. Told her I would be willing to help her. The guy was mowing her lawn while I worked on the flowers.

Mindy got home from the grocery as I was about half way through with the transplanting. She raved about the color of the geraniums. Kenny stopped down a few minutes later. By then the clear blue skies we enjoyed earlier were all but gone. Dark clouds were rolling in again from the west. Can’t say I didn’t expect it. Truth is, I expected the entire day to be a wash.

I told Kenny that I had a company (Junk-King) coming out Saturday to haul away our leaky hot tub. I’m just done screwing with it. Told him it’ll be about $300. He offered to help get rid of it for far less. Not sure how serious he was.

Mindy, Jacob and I sat out on the deck after I finished transferring the geraniums. I’d have to plant the cone flowers another day. I fetched my BB gun and shot at the nasty geese making their way around our yard a few times. Jacob got out his airsoft too. They’re relentless. Near 8p we whistled and hollered for Bella. She eventually came running home. She was instantly on full alert over the stormy looking skies.  And at some point she came rushing to my side crying that she was too young to die. She doesn’t handle thunder storms well at all. I did my best to assure her that she was safe, and so did Mindy.

We tuned to the radar to see what was up. Tornado warnings for Madison, Union, and Logan counties just to our NW.  A narrow band of red was about to move through Franklin county. It hit around 830p and came and went in a hurry. It got really windy for about 2 minutes and then it rained hard for another 20 minutes, but it fizzled out after that. Nothing but gentle rain from there forward.

The four of us settled in on the sofa watching The Universe, and more pointedly, a program about asteroids and meteors. I dosed on & off. Had Bella pinned to my side. She kept elbowing me by accident. Mindy declared it bedtime for the kids at 930p. She headed up herself a couple minutes later. Asked me not to be long.

I look forward to my alone time on the sofa. Nothing feels better than watching TV for the sole purpose of falling asleep. It worked. I was out in less than five minutes. Next thing I knew it was 1030p. I refilled my water glass and headed for bed. Good night rain.