Speed & Distance

I was up right on time and downstairs by 535am. I glanced outside towards the sky. It was cloudy. I also looked for Mindy’s colored solar spheres, but none of the four were still aglow, though the hummingbird was.

I had to manually start the coffee maker apparently forgetting to hit the auto-start button the night before. I did sit-ups & push-ups next. I was finished well ahead of the coffee. I headed to the PC where I read a few headlines while waiting for the coffee to finish.

It was a balmy 53 degrees, and quite a bit warmer than it’s been early mornings of late. Time went fast while playing on the computer – always does. I walked away at 610am for meditation and stretching. By the time I finished both it was almost 625am. I headed upstairs to wake Mindy next. At Mindy’s prompting, I closed the bedroom window just before heading back downstairs.

I dressed for a run wearing a thin, long-sleeved wicking shirt and my fleece pullover. I headed out the door near 635am and ran the full 4.1 miles. The clouds thinned during my run and the sun was trying to peak through. Expecting high’s near 80 all week. That came out of nowhere. Looking ahead more than a few days is futile. Back home I leashed up the dog then headed out for our morning walk. I always look forward to those few minutes after my run is in the bag and I have all those yummy endorphins flowing.

Back at the house for fried eggs by 725am. Can’t recall if Mindy reminded the kids to go to Noah’s or not, but she usually does on Monday’s. She left for work around 730am.

Soon after Mindy bolted, I headed off to the shower. I hadn’t shaved since the Wednesday prior. Took a while. Was back downstairs in the kitchen near 8am. I spent the next several minutes packing my lunch and tidying up. I prepared the dishwasher for running but left the door open for the time being that way I could put my coffee cup and water glass in before leaving. The kids and I headed out at 808am.

It was a lovely morning and warming quickly. Chrissy asked if it was a BM’er day. I didn’t plan on it because of a healthy chance of thunderstorms. They were near the Indiana/Ohio state line. The bus arrived on time and soon Eiknarf and I were back at home. I poured myself a 2nd cup of coffee then paid the mortgage online. House payment went down again. Cool! I left my work laptop connected all weekend after working from home on Friday. Took me a while to get logged off and loaded up for work. I left the house near 830am.

It was a nice and sunny drive into the office. It was hard to walk into the building with such a lovely morning going on outside. I got situated quickly and went right to work. I popped my head out of my office a time or two glancing out at the weather. It was sunny every time I glanced out. Not sure where the storms were. I was busy enough that I didn’t bother taking a real lunch, though I did eat my packed food while working at my desk.

The day went by quickly. Usually does. I didn’t leave the office for home until 545pm. I celled Mindy once I was on the road for home. She was busy grilling pork chops. Mindy reminded me that Jacob wouldn’t have soccer practice since he had games on Saturday & Sunday and then another on Tuesday. Said she was not going to send Bella to gymnastics either, her main reason being tomorrow’s OAA testing. Wants the kids well rested. Wanted my take on it. Sure, dear.

Arrived home around 605pm. Both kids were out playing with their friends. Dinner was served around 615pm: grilled pork chops, macaroni, salad, and baked beans. Jacob wouldn’t eat the chops. Mindy acquiesced and let him eat cereal instead. Left up to me I would’ve insisted he eat what was cooked. The flexibility would’ve been any available leftovers. Mindy later said she just didn’t want to fight the battle.

The kids were done eating and back outside playing with their friends before 640pm. I managed kitchen clean-up with Mindy’s help. Finished up in the kitchen around 7pm. Soon after I headed upstairs to get into my PJs. I decided then to spend a little time catching up on some blog writing. Mindy didn’t seem too pleased. She wanted to spend some time on the deck. She headed out alone. I probably spent about 45 minutes writing, still trying to finish up Sunday. As for postings, I am about nine days behind. Yikes!

Around 8pm I headed for the family room and the TV tuning in to The Universe on the History Channel. Great program about the vast distances and speed of the universe. Hard for most folks to comprehend: the earth orbits the sun at approximately 66,000 miles per hour and travels about 578 millions miles in so doing . The sun in turn flies around the center of the Milky Way at about 500,000 miles per hour and takes about 200 million years for one orbit. Of course light travels at about 186,000 miles per second. The closest star is about 4 light years from Earth.

Colorful, Warm Sunday

After 5 beers I need all the sleep I could get. I woke initially around 5am with a dull headache, but too tired to get up and seek out some relief (AKA Advil). I fell back asleep and didn't wake again until just after 730am. By then the headache was thankfully gone.

I headed to the kitchen where I prepped a pot of coffee - a Starbucks dark roast blend. I then played on the computer until it was ready. Online I reviewed the Vikings NFL draft as a whole reading a little about all ten of the players selected. Enjoyed coffee until 9am when I decided to head out on my run. Mindy was still sleeping when I set out for the three mile run. And since we were up so early on Saturday, I didn't really expect her up for some time.

It was a gorgeous morning with completely clear skies and the temperature in the mid 40s. I never looked at the day's forecast but knew it was going to be much nicer than Saturday. Like most Sunday's, I ran three miles. It was warming quickly. By the time I was back from my run it was over 50 degrees. Just as I was coming in from my run Mindy & Eiknarf were heading out the front door for a walk. I turned around and walked with them. We walked a little further than we usually go enjoying the lovely spring weather along the way.

During our walk I shared that I thought I might go back to Straders and Lowes for more flowers and propane. It looked like it was going to be ideal weather for planting and with the 80s coming in the week ahead, I wanted to get a jump on my seasonal planting. Mindy encouraged me to do so, but not before we took a quick nap once we were back at home.

Around 11am I changed out of my smelly, sweaty running shirt into fresh running clothes that I could wear in the yard later. I headed off to Strader's & Lowes in the Pilot. This time I went to Strader's first, arriving around 1130am. There were far more cars than there were Saturday evening but then again far fewer than there will be next weekend.

I went for six potted 1' hibiscus: 2 yellow, 2 pink, and two orange. I bought two flats of purple Wave petunias as well as a mixed flat of sweet potato vines. I'll still need to get a few more flower before we're all done, but I was off to an excellent start and it was still only April. Leaving Strader's I headed south on Riverside until I reached Fishinger. There was a huge regatta going on at Griggs. Must have been a few thousand folks along the river bank.

Lowes was more crowded than Strader's. There I quickly picked a color that suited my fancy then headed to the paint counter where I had them mix me a quart of house paint. I asked the paint man about texturizing the paint with sand. Said to buy regular play sand. While he mixed the paint, I headed to the garden center where I picked up a bag of play sand and yet another large bag of potting soil as well as colorful perennial that caught my eye.

I did a propane exchange next. But only was I exchanging our empty tank, but also prepared to buy a 2nd tank filled. That way we won't run out of gas half way through grilling again.

I got home around 1230pm. Bella was home and helping Mindy in the kitchen. She reminded me that Jacob was off to his second soccer game in as many days with his dad in Chillicothe. Mindy & Bella were making a ham, cheese and veggie omelet. It was delicious and hit the spot. I was hungry. While enjoying the omelet, I asked Bella if she cared to help me paint the giant flower pots. She was game. I suggested she dress in clothes that didn't matter. I expected her to get covered in paint.

I carried up some painting supplies from the basement, including the handy painting tarp I bought some 10+ years ago and stretched it out on the deck. We mixed about 8 ounces of paint in a small plastic pail along with half a coffee can of play sand. Satisfied with the texture, we painted the two large deck pots. The paint covered nicely in one coat, and turned out far better and cheaper than using spray paint. Note to self.

We were expecting granddaughter Olivia anytime. Ashley said they'd be stopping by around 1pm. They showed up around 115pm, Ashley, Olivia, and Stephen. By then we were done painting and just getting ready to start planting. Mindy gave Olivia her Easter basket that we've had now for 3 weeks. Ashley & Stephen might've hung out for 15 minutes before taking off. Mindy invited both back for dinner. They were noncommittal.

Before potting flowers in the new burnt red flower pots I bought the day before (not the ones Bella and I painted) I drilled drain holes in the bottom. Otherwise, they tend to get swampy during heavy periods of rain. Bella and Olivia played in the backyard while I potted flowers/plants. I did two large pots and four hanging baskets. Took about 2 hours. By the time I finished around back, Mindy was off to the grocery store but not before the two girls had set up a lemonade stand out front. I could them both hollering out at passersby, both on foot and in car. Cute!

Bella shared that her momma showed her how to whip up a new batch if inventory started running low, which is exactly what happened. Their stand was a hit on what turned out being a gorgeous spring afternoon - sunny and 70 degrees. After finishing the pots and hanging baskets out back, I headed out front to sink Wave petunias in the front beds. This year I decided to plant my flowers before mulching. I've always mulched first saving myself the tedious task of mulching around the delicate plants. The argument for mulching later is that the flowers get better rooted in the soil. We'll see if there's a discernible difference this growing season.

Mindy was back from the grocery after being gone about 90 minutes. I didn't bother helping carry in the groceries, my hands were caked in black dirt. For the last hour we could hear the familiar sound of an ice cream truck rolling through the subdivision. Both girls had their hearts set on buying ice cream with their profits. Finally, it made its way by our place and I walked both girls across the street to pick out treats. I was shocked to see the prices - $2.50 for most options. The few $1 items they had on the menu were supposedly sold out. Of course! And I know it's not nice, but the folks inside looked scary - unsavory even. After hemming and hawing the girls both decided on orange ice cream sickles.

The girls soon grew weary of the lemonade stand about the same time that I was winding down from all the planting. Once I was finished I watered everything in really well. That took a good thirty minutes. By then Ashley was back for dinner but without Stephen. I forgot to mention earlier that Mindy took the time to set up her colorful solar globes and hummingbird in the back yard landscape while I potted flowers. She also filled and hung her new bird feeder. Our yard is definitely looking like summer!

While I showered, Mindy grilled brats and dogs and heated baked beans on the stove. We gathered for dinner I'm guessing near 6pm. Olivia was wired as usual, up and down from her seat at the table. I love Olivia to pieces but she's lacking any type of table manners and extremely loud. Very demanding of her mother too. I seriously doubt that Ashley even realizes it. I typically don't say a whole lot, choosing instead to appreciate the moments with the two of them. However, I do interject when it gets too bad. Ashley's very proud of the way her mouth is turning out. Dr Monfort's done a fantastic job restraightening her teeth. It makes me feel good hearing Ashley rave about the difference (helps her self-esteem).

Ashley was ready to head home around 730pm. About the same time Olivia began testing her patience as well as ours. She threw a little tantrum defying everything her momma asked her to do, including putting on her shoes. Having heard enough, I simply held her so Ashley could get the shoes on her. Olivia was pissed! She didn't walk out to the car with her momma either, but instead snuck around my Accord. I eventually sought her out, picked her up, and buckled her in her booster seat. She cried, kicked and fussed, and scratched my arm. I took her ice treat from her hands and tossed it away. Sorry, but no grand daughter of mine is going to act like that and still enjoy a treat.



Mindy let the kids play until 830pm or so when it was time to come in and get showers. I was planning a walk about the yard to look at the new colored solar lighting but never did. Instead, I spent my leisure time watching a couple episodes of The Universe on the History Channel. Mindy headed to bed shortly after 9pm. I stayed up until 10pm but DVR' the 10pm episode to catch another evening soon.

Rio Grande: The Legend of Bevo Francis

I’m guessing I fell asleep Friday evening around 930pm and slept really well. Still, 500am came around quickly – too quickly. But once I was up and downstairs I was fine. I started some coffee then spent a few minutes online. My goal was to head out for my run by 530am. That half hour went fast. I took Mindy some coffee at 530am then headed out for my run.

Like most Saturdays, I ran just three miles, all of it in the dark. Despite a forecast calling for clouds, rain and cool temps, it was partly clear with plenty of stars overhead during my run. Hmmm?

Mindy was just finishing up in the bathroom when I got back, which was just after 600am. I hustled into the shower and was ready 10-15 minutes later. I was a little surprised that Mindy was in the kitchen making all of us eggs, but we needed a good breakfast. I had my phone and camera fully charged. I verified with Mindy that she had printed directions to the gym. She did. I didn’t bother programming my Navigation. We’ve driven by the Rio Grande Exit twice now over the last few months. According to Mindy, the Rio Grande College was less than a mile off that exit.

By the time we were headed out of the house it was 635am – about 15 minutes later than I wanted to leave. The directions said it would take 111 minutes. We figured we could shave 5-10 minutes off that by going 4 or 5 mph over the limit. The beauty of leaving so early was that there was next to no traffic. We were on 23 south in not time at all. There was a lovely sun rise but it wouldn’t last. Thick storm clouds were moving in quickly from the south and west. There was even some lighting off in the distance. The drive went faster than it’s gone the last couple times, but we were still pushing it. Bella’s first event was slated for 830am which left us only 4 minutes of wiggle room. There wasn’t anyway we’d be getting there by 8am. That was clear from jump. My prediction was 817am and we were pretty much dead on that. The only trouble we had was finding the gym once we entered the Rio Grande campus. The directions were fabulous for getting us to the campus but nonexistent after that. Bella’s coach celled mindy as we followed my hunch. Sure enough, the building we needed was just ahead. I dropped Mindy and Bella at the door and then went to park the car. I snapped a couple of photos as I made my way to the gymnasium.

Mindy was waiting just inside the door after sending Bella in to join her team. They had already called her group to the floor for the double-mini tramp. Mindy paid my admission, so I all needed was a stamp. I found a seat near the top of the bleachers. The only thing I didn’t bring that I should’ve was my book to account for the time between Bella’s 2nd and 3rd events, which would be 2.5 hours! She had an 830a, 9am, and 1130am.

She did reasonably well on the double-mini but managed only to finish 4th, though we didn’t immediately know how she did. Trampoline was next, the even she does best. No sooner had she rejoined Mindy & I in the bleacher was she called for event #2 on the far side of the gym. We watched her warm-ups which were darn near flawless. I was impressed with the heights she reaches as well as her form. But during her official turn, which there is only one, she lost focus and inexplicably stopped after two quick bounces. What was that, we wondered? There are no do-overs.

As you might imagine, she was a pill to deal with when she rejoined us. Wanted no part of me. And she definitely didn’t want her picture taken. She even went as far as threatening damage to my camera. Somebody’s not in a very good mood. It was still before 930am. We’d be playing the waiting game now until her third and final event at 1130am.

After people watching for the next 30 minutes, I decided to tour the gym. I visited all the trophy cases reading about the school’s athletic accomplishments. Amongst them, there was quite the to-do about this guy name Bevo Francis. Later, I found an entire exhibit dedicated to this one former student athlete, Bevo. Turns out, Bevo holds the all-time college scoring record for points in one game – 113 points. He actually scored 116 in another game but the NCAA later disqualified that record due to the opponent being a two-year college. I was intrigued reading about his record, career, and life story posted on the wall. Read about their national championship soccer team in 2003 as well. Who knew? I headed back to the bleachers glad I went for the walk. We still had an hour before Bella’s third and final event. Ugh!

In hind sight, I probably should have gone off exploring the buildings on the campus, like the art department but didn’t. Instead, did more people watching. Saw brother Charles’ twin again. Finally, Bella was called to her final event – floor – at 1115am. That ended up being her best event. The same event she struggled with in Point Pleasant WV, last month. All we had left to do was wait for her scores to post, get her trophy, and then get out of town. I had no idea whatsoever where she and Mindy headed off to. It wasn’t until Mindy came and found me once again wandering the halls. She wasn’t happy and was giving me an earful. Honestly, I wasn’t sure why. I had no idea where the awards room was. Mindy said something about me getting on her last nerve, almost as if I were Jacob. I could’ve chosen to be angry but was too tired to worry about it.

During the final event I had taken the time to Google map Dakota’s in Jackson. I was surprised to see that it was less than a mile off route 35W. As soon as Bella got her 2nd place trophy and then found her tennis shoes we headed for the Accord. By then it was a partly cloudy over head and had actually warmed to near 60. I called Mom before we pulled out of the lot to let her know we were heading that way.

We didn’t get five miles down the road before the partly cloudy skies once again gave way to complete cloud cover and chilly temps. Back in the mid 40s. Jackson is something under 20 miles from Rio Grande. Instead of taking the route 32 exit we opted instead for McCarty lane, which is a direct turn off of 35W. If my Droid was accurate, the restaurant would be just a ½ mile up the road. It was. Even Mindy was surprised at close it was.

We opted to head inside rather than wait in the lot and were quickly seated in a booth. I would’ve called mom but didn’t have her cell number. We sat there eating peanuts and drinking soft drinks for at least ten minutes before I headed to the entrance looking to see if mom might be waiting in the lot. Yep, there she was. I waved her in. She struggled mightily getting her keys free from the ignition but finally did. Said she’d been sitting there for 10 minutes.

Our server seemed a little impatient waiting for our fourth guest, but it’s not like there was competition for our table. Only scantly attended. We ordered appetizers: chicken wraps and an onion bloom at mom’s request. We placed our dinner orders too. Mom went with their fish trio (appeared to be all deep fried). Mindy went with prime rib, and Bella and I with burgers, though hers off the kids menu.

The appetizers were good. I ate only one tiny finger off the blooming onion. I did eat at least three of the mini chicken wraps. Soon our food orders arrived. My burger was decent. Mindy’s prime rib looked awesome. In fact, everybody seemed to enjoy their food. I’m guessing we were there for about an hour. Mom talked about her brother Chuck and then how her car’s failing her. Talking about getting a new one. I suggested a Honda Civic – the perfect car, both economical and dependable. She talked about a used Toyota pick-up. Uhhh – no! I insisted that was a bad idea.

Mindy got a text from Lindsey sharing that she was on her way to our house to start her laundry after taking the boys in for eye exams. Said both need glasses. Sounded like Lindsey would be at our place when we got home.

Walked mom to her car after packing up her leftovers in a GFS foam container. We opted to follow mom north east on rt 32 until we came upon the 35W exit. That was just a mile or so up the highway. By then we were under a full on thunderstorm complete with heavy rain, lightning and thunder directly overhead. Bella was a tad worried then said she was sure that Jacob's soccer game would be canceled. I explained how it might very well be sunny in Hilliard, still a good 75 miles SE of home.

The drive home went by pretty fast, but I was getting crazy sleepy passing through Circleville and Bloomfield. Taking a nap immediately in the door was first on my list of things to do once home. The sky stayed gray for the rest of the drive home and the temperature hovered in the mid 40s. Aside from all the green, you'd hardly know that it was spring. At some point I shared how ironic it was that when we were traveling the same highway back in December and two weeks before Xmas it was in the 60s and sunny. Now, here it was almost May and only in the 40s.

As soon as we got home I rushed up to our room and leaped head long into our bed. I turned on the TV catching the final round of the NFL draft just before falling asleep. I must've slept for a solid 90 minutes. I heard Lindsey loud exhaust pull away. I took that as my cue to get up. My plan all along was to take the Pilot and pay a visit to Strader's to buy some of the flowers for our summer gardens. With the weather being somewhat raw, I knew their wouldn't be a crowd and the pickin's still premo. Supposed to be sunny and in the upper 60s on Sunday and then the 80s all next week. That'll bring out the nursery hounds in a hurry.

Mindy was fine with me taking the Pilot and heading to both Lowes and Straders. She asked if I wanted her to come along. I didn't mind but figured she might enjoy the alone time. Going after flowers is one of the most relaxing things I like to do. It's like a drug.

I headed to Lowes in Mill Run first, picking up a second 64quart bag of Scott's Miracle Grow potting soil, two 22" deck pots (burnt red), two grapevine hanging baskets, and yet another hose nozzle after snapping the handle off the brand new one I bought just a couple weeks ago. Don't ask! I was also very pleased to discover an entire wall of irrigation system supplies. I looked over the offerings feeling comfortable that anything else I might need to augment our existing system I can get there.

On to Strader's. The lot might've had five other cars. Now know this, had the day been sunny and 70 the lot might've been packed with more than a 100 cars. That's how fickle people are. Not only did I have free run of the nursery aisles, I had quite a selection to choose from too. I planned only to get hanging basket geraniums and vinca vines. I bought four giant geraniums, some the prettiest, most healthy looking you'll find anywhere. They're a little pricier than elsewhere but typically much higher quality. I picked up a new giant Hosta and another purple cone flower to replace the one I dug up by accident a month or so ago thinking it was weed.

It was already near 7pm. Mindy and I planned to do CBC for drinks and maybe even and appetizer. As it was, I was still pretty full from lunch at Dakota's. I quickly unloaded my haul into the garage. Mindy was still down visiting with the neighbors. She came walking across the yard just after I finished carrying everything in. After confirming our date, we readied for an evening out at CBC. I was looking forward to some Bodhi!

We drove the Accord and made great time getting downtown to CBC. Mindy agreed to drive and said she'd most likely only have one glass of wine. It was packed pretty full. Consequently, there were no bar stools to be had. But sure enough, a couple stools freed after a few minutes standing. Jamie & Vince were working the bar. This was Jamie's last night as a bartender. Starting Monday she's the new assistant manager.

Jen the manager stopped and talked to Mindy and I about her and her wife planning to have a baby in the near term. Ultimately, they may each carry a child, but they agreed that Keri would carry the first in fact, if I understood correctly, they've already selected the donor sperm. She shared her worry about not having a physical bond with the child. Mindy made sure to pooh-pooh that notion. Instead, insuring her that she'll feel attached from jump.

Vince kept the Bodhi's rolling my way ultimately serving me four. We brought in an empty jug too which I planned to take home full. We struck up conversation with those sitting near us. One woman looked an awful lot like Mel of Pat & Mel. I asked if she worked at Children's Hospital. Nope, but she did work at Riverside. We hung out at CBC until best guess, about 1030pm. Mindy picked up the tab and drove home.

Mindy was tired from getting up so early and ready for bed. Me, I was ready for one more beer. I didn't want to crack the jug of Bodhi, though, so instead I cracked open a Brew Kettle Winter Warmer and walked down to the neighbors who I could see were still up and at it. Josh & Rachel were over hanging with Chrissy & Kenny. I visited for about 45 minutes or until my beer was near gone. I headed home to find Mindy already sound asleep. I joined her in bed before 1130pm.

Bed by 9pm on a Friday

I opted to sleep in well past 530am waking somewhere closer to 6am. However, I planned to work from home, so I wasn’t behind much if at all. I quickly completed both sit-ups and push-ups then sipped coffee for a short time at my PC.

I headed up to wake Mindy ahead of meditation and a stretch. I closed the bedroom window and turned up the heat. It was clear outside and plenty chilly. According to Yahoo, only 34 degrees.

Left for a run while Mindy was upstairs blow drying her hair. Wasn’t sure if she’d still be there when I returned. It had to be approaching 7am. I shortened my run to just three miles getting me back home just ahead of 730am. Mindy was still at the house and had my breakfast waiting in the microwave. It was then that I shared my intentions to work from home. She wanted to know if I’d be there to get the kids off the bus. I assumed I would. She left a couple minutes later.

I opted to work in my running clothes since I planned to cut the lawn during lunch. If everything went as planned, I hoped to call it a day around 3pm to help balance out the extra hours I worked all week. It was a very busy morning. More and more it was looking it would be another full day. Come noon, I forced myself away and headed out to at least start on the lawn. It was beautiful and sunny, but also pretty chilly. Was still only 50 degrees.

I got all the push mowing done then headed inside to check in with work. Responded to a couple issues but then headed back outside to finish the lawn. I followed that same pattern for the next couple hours, heading inside to check in every 30 minutes or so until the lawn work was completely behind me.

Around 3pm I headed out to dig up some of the volunteer blue salvia and transplant it elsewhere. I also tried my hand at spray painting two bland looking old plastic flower pots that we use each year on the deck. A couple weeks ago I bought a can of textured brown spray paint that I thought would give them a more appealing look. I took them out to the tree house area to do the deed. I was very disappointed to run out of paint even before getting one pot close to completed. The pots looked terrible and it would take at least two more cans to complete the job. Plan ‘B’.

The kids got home while I was around back transplanting blue salvia. Mindy was home a few minutes later. She carried in my package from Fed Ex – the Rain Bird irrigation parts I ordered. I asked for her help watering in the transplanted plants then was ready to call it a day. Around 5pm I headed back to my PC to complete my weekly time reporting and set my out of office for the weekend after working 10 straight days. Felt good.

It was supposed to be a Jimaken weekend. Jim picked up Jacob around 5-530pm. Bella wasn’t going since she had a gymnastics event in Rio Grande, Ohio on Saturday. We’d have to leave the house between 6-630am to be there by 8am. Jacob and Jim had a soccer game in Hilliard early afternoon. I wasn’t at all looking forward to getting up at 5am Saturday to complete my run before leaving for Rio Grande, but that’s what you do when you’re a parent. Still, part of me wanted to scream. 

I called my mom around 6pm to see if she was up for meeting us for lunch in Jackson at Dakota’s after Bella’s gym meet. She was. We planned to meet there around 1pm. At the time I wasn’t sure how far it would be off the highway.

Mindy called Bella in from play around 8pm to get a shower and to ready for bed. She was upset and even crying about having to call it a night so early on a Friday. She was bellyaching about needing to be up so early for her gymnastics meet too. I could only laugh at that. The last thing that Mindy and I wanted to do was get up so stinking early on a Saturday.

Mindy, Bella and I figured to be going to bed early. After a much deserved shower, I cracked a beer and snacked on pita chips and hummus. I cracked a 2nd beer around 7pm. I started following the NFL draft again around 730pm, excited to see who the Vikings would pick. But because they traded their 2nd round pick for another late 1st round pick, it would be a while before they were up again. We headed for bed near 9pm with the NFL draft whirling on the bedroom TV. I got to see the Vikings pick then quickly fell asleep.

Green Chicken

A thunderstorm rumbled through in the wee hours just before my rise time. We had Bella and the pug in our bed. I got up near 530am. Completed push-ups and curls. The rain was intermittently heavy. The radar showed that the majority of the storm would be out of our vicinity by 645am. I was patient, waiting until 650am to set out on my run. By then the rain was reduced to sprinkles and the clouds only scattered. The temperature was a fairly mild 53 degrees.

It was a late start day for the kids meaning they would have to catch the bus until 1015am. I did my usual run and was back home just about the time that Mindy was ready to head off to work. I planned to work from home for the first couple of hours eating my eggs from my desk. I started working right away, but peeled away around 810am to go up and shower. I was showered and dressed by 835am.

The kids didn’t get up until somewhere close to 9am. They asked about wearing shorts. Why not? I made sure that Bella took her medicine and made sure they both ate. I let them know that I had to join a call right at 1015am so I wouldn’t be able to join them at the bus stop. I still planned to watch the bus pull up from the living room. The kids headed out at 1008am. I closed the front door to keep Eiknarf from barking at passersby.

The call was a quick one. It was over by 1030am. I enjoyed another cup of coffee then left for the office. Must’ve been around 1045am. It was an incredibly busy work day with all sorts of urgent issues to contend with. Because I didn’t arrive at the office until 11am or so, the day seemed to be flying by. I was totally shocked when I glanced at the clock and saw that it was after 3pm. Because of the late hour, I didn’t eat my salad. Instead, I ate only my nuts and cheese.

It was a very busy late afternoon in the office too. Didn’t leave for home until just after 530pm. Called and talked with Mindy. Said she was making pasta. I wasn’t too thrilled with the idea but didn’t complain either. The evening turned to be pretty nice. The sun came out and it was somewhere in the low 60s.

Mindy made pesto chicken and pasta. Both kids were somewhat turned off by the green chicken but didn’t dare complain so not to lose dinner moving forward. Mindy’s threat about 6 months ago still resonates amongst us. I wasn’t thrilled with the dish but it wasn’t bad. The kids headed out to play after dinner.

Just after dinner clean-up I got a call on my blackberry from a customer. Despite not being 24X7 I took the call. I ended up working for the next couple hours. Oh boy! I was too thrilled about it but it comes with the territory. Mindy and the kids tuned to Idol elimination night at 8pm while I was still busy with work.

Mindy headed to bed even before 9pm but still planning to watch the rest of Idol from her comfy perch. She asked that I DVR Touch. By then I was done working and joined Bella in the family room where we watched Touch. It was good. By the time the program was over I headed off to bed.

Old Queen

I was awake just ahead of 530am but made the conscious decision to steal a few more minutes of sleep. I felt good after almost nine hours of sleep counting the time I spent sleeping the chair before heading up to bed.

I was mostly clear overhead. I whipped out push-ups and sit-ups in all of about 10 minutes. Headed to the PC with coffee next. It was 46 degrees with an expected high approaching 70 under sunny skies early one. And after two days with a strong, chilly wind, it was finally gone. Read about Thursday’s NFL draft and who the Vikings might take with the 3rd pick. Lots of options and lots of BS’ng going on. I love following the NFL draft.

Meditation and stretching were next, both were completed by 625am and before I headed up to wake Mindy. I reached out and closed the bedroom window Mindy opened before bed with my foot. She didn’t realize it, but I turned the heat up a few degrees before I headed up to bed the evening before.

I headed downstairs to prepare for a run getting out the door near 635am. I skipped hand and ear covers but otherwise was in winter-weight attire. I ran the full 4.1 miles. The trash truck picked up our can just as I passed by the house after my initial warm-up loop.
It was a lovely sunrise. The run went quickly. I drug the trash can back to its resting place before heading in after the pug.

My feet were wet from walking the grass. Mindy brought me the leash. I waited at the bottom of the steps. She and I walked to the east and past Kenny’s house. She took care of business fairly quickly.

It was OAA testing day for the kids. Mindy insisted that both have eggs (brain food) for breakfast. Bella had a well-done dippy egg. Jacob had his scrambled and topped with salsa. I had two regular fried eggs. Mindy left for work near 730am. Reminded the kids that grandpa (my dad) would be there to greet them off the bus. She had a beef roast in the crock-pot for dinner. She reminded Jacob to dump the gravy over it when he got home from school.

I headed to the shower around 735am. Was downstairs and ready by 750am. Spent a few minutes throwing together my lunch. Keeping in my mind that I’d be working in New Albany, Mindy prepped cut veggies. That way I wouldn’t have to deal with salad dressing. Checked email before heading to the bus with the kids .Had an email announcing Lindsey’s car insurance policy renewal as well as an email from Rain Bird sharing that yesterday’s order has shipped. Cool!

Kids and I headed out at 808am. Met Kenny and the girls at the bus stop. Kids were all abuzz over the OAA testing, and what they were and weren’t allowed to do. Wished them well. It was a gorgeous start to the day, clear blue skies, no breeze, and warming quickly. Headed for home and any last minute preparations.

Left for New Albany just ahead of 825am taking 670 east. Traffic wasn’t an issue at all, though it did congest a bit as I approached the heart of downtown. Loosened up quickly and it was smooth sailing the rest of the way in. Made excellent time, arriving by 845am.

Was settled and logged in by 905am. Chatted with my main customer contacts then had our regular Wednesday call at 10am. That went well. Originally, I planned to help some of their folks located in another building across campus use some of our online tools. However, there was a credential issue still unresolved so we had to postpone the meeting for a few more days.

I was crazy busy all day taking care of numerous escalations, including some for my other customers as well. The day flew by without me taking a formal lunch break. Imagine how surprised I was near 4pm when I glanced at the weather expecting to find 70 and sunshine but found that it was only in the mid 50s and raining steadily. What happened? I left the campus just ahead of 5pm. First time I’ve gotten out of there that early in a while.

Called Mindy on my drive home. She was just pulling in the subdivision after seeing the orthopedic surgeon who was looking after her MCL tear. The news on that front was all good. She’s healed up nicely. Fitting her for a sports brace that she can use for both water and snow skiing. I took 270 around unwilling to chance taking 670, especially in the light rain.

After talking with Mindy I spent the rest of my commute home programming my mom and Ashley into my ‘handsfree’ feature. That way all I have to do is say their name and it auto dials. Took some doing to figure it out fully, but eventually did. Traffic was at a crawl from Tuttle to Roberts Rd. I used that to my advantage and barely noticed the inconvenience. I listened to XM 68 - SPA for the entire drive home. A song played by Ray Lynch that caught my attention. I quickly sent a text to myself with the artist’s name and title. It was incredibly pleasing music to my ear.

Arrived home near 545pm. Dad was already sitting at the dinner table, Bella was lounging on the sofa, and Mindy was putting the finishing touches on our dinner. As I organized myself for dinner, dad was sharing a story about brother Bob taking on the task of installing a new furnace. That’s a daunting task I wouldn’t dream of taking on myself.

Dinner was served near 6pm. Mindy dished up everyone’s plates. We had roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, salad, and rolls. Both Mindy and I had second helpings of meat. It was very good. Mindy planned to drop Bella at gymnastics then tend to a few errands including a stop at Kroger and dropping off our recycling. I was still managing clean-up when she and Bella departed. She said goodbye to my dad and wished him luck on his gambling boat trip Thursday.

Dad and I talked for another 20 minutes or so after the two of them left. I asked how the iPad is coming along. He’s used it, but sparingly. Doesn’t really know what or how to use it, or even do the basics. I suppose that it will take some time for him to recognize its true worth. Dad left around 7pm.

I finished tidying up the kitchen then headed upstairs to change into my PJs. I then spent some time on the PC. I made the mistake of checking work email and ended up getting involved in a work matter for the next couple of hours. I wasn’t happy about it but definitely didn’t want to disappoint the customer.

Mindy got home around 740pm. By then Jacob was back from soccer practice. Mindy saw that I was busy with work and made plans to go after Bella. I ended up working until almost 9pm, but took time out to catch most of the Idol contestants do their Queen songs. None of them were that good. Two of the surviving members, Brain May and Roger Taylor, opened the show performing with all six of the remaining Idol contestants singing. They’re looking pretty old these days. But then again, Queen was red hot in the mid 70s. Geesh, that was 37 years ago.

While Mindy was off getting Bella, Jacob enjoyed almost an entire box of cereal in one sitting. Once Bella was home from gymnastics we all watched the rest of Idol together. Bella wanted to vote after the show, so for the first time all season, we went to my PC and voted four times, twice for Holly, once each for Elyesse and Joshua. We all headed to bed immediately after the voting.

Mid-Week Enlightenment

I was up and downstairs by 535am. That’s as early as I’ve been up in the last couple weeks. I slipped into my exercise shoes then glanced out back. It was completely clear overhead. Great! I headed to the living room where I grunted through 50 sit-ups then headed to the family room where I whipped out 40 curls. By 550am I was sitting at my PC enjoying coffee.

Played around online for a good 15 minutes. It was only 41 degrees and still breezy. Expected a high in the low 60s’s with an abundance of sunshine. It’s always a struggle walking away from the PC, but I had to do it. Started meditation near 610am. That went OK. I headed upstairs to wake Mindy with a cup of coffee at 622am. At her request, I bumped the temperature up a few degrees when I headed back downstairs.

By the time I finished a stretch and dressed for a run it was 635am. Because it was so cool, I wore hand and ear covers again. The air didn’t really feel that chilly but the wind, oh yeah! I ran the full 4.1 miles without any problems. Felt great, in fact. If nothing else, the cool temps make for easy running.

I was back at the house with Eiknarf already downstairs awaiting my return. I leashed her up and headed outside. We walked across the street again. She likes the new territory. Must smell another subset of dogs. Her business finished, we headed back to the house for some eggs. Bella and Jacob were at the breakfast table. Bella was excited to be having Jello for breakfast. I insisted she eat something else as well sharing that Jello isn’t much more than a glass of Kool-Aid. Mindy agreed.

I had a plain omelet. It was good. Enjoyed that along with fruit, OJ and dry toast. Mindy reminded the kids to bus home with Noah and then asked if we would be going out to dinner. Wasn’t sure, but it was a Jimaken night. Mindy left for work, and I headed off to the shower.

I was ready and downstairs again by 851am. I put the finishing touches on my lunch then played on the computer until it was time to head out with the kids. I was surfing for pop-up sprinkler heads to augment or improve our existing irrigation system. The materials are dirt cheap. I just want to make sure I buy the right stuff for the desired affect.

The kids and I headed out for the bus at 808am. It felt warmer than I expected, though still chilly in the shade. The sun really warmed things up. Chrissy joined us at the bus stop. As soon as the bus was gone Eiknarf and I headed for home where I did some last minute prep and then started the dishwasher. I left for work around 825am.

I was busier than I was on Monday but still my day manageable enough that I could enjoy my work. That’s important. I talked with a couple old peeps down on floor 5. My boss shared a few nuggets relative to a new reporting structure. I’ll still report to him, but it looks like he’ll have a new boss, our VP.

I ate lunch at my desk choosing not to take a formal lunch break. The day flew by. It was 5pm in a hurry. All of my immediate to-dos addressed, I left for home. It felt good getting out of the office at 5pm. What a difference. Called Mindy as I was leaving the lot. She sounded way more alive then she did the evening prior. She shared that Jimaken was there to pick-up the kids. Said she’d call me back as soon as they were gone. That wasn’t necessary, heck, I’d be home in the matter of minutes. She called me back about the time I was entering 270s. We made plans to dine at CBC. We both needed a fun night after a very busy and tiring weekend.

Lots of mail, certainly more than usual. Mindy shared that it was two days worth. I almost pitched a check from my mortgage company reimbursing me for an overage in my escrow account. That’s happened like three other times. Cool! We didn’t waste too much time at home before heading off to CBC. All I needed to do was freshen up. We left the house near 535pm taking the Accord.

Traffic backed up almost to a standstill on 70 east between West Broad and the Mound St entrance ramp. The I-71 south lane (far right) was at least moving. We opted to take it to the Greenlawn exit and then east on Greenlawn to Front. That was slow but at least it was moving. We arrived at CBC near 550pm.

Wow, CBC was as sparsely populated as we’ve ever seen it. Maybe ten cars in the lot. It was a Tuesday and only 6pm. Only four or five others in the bar. Kate was tending bar and was as delightful ever. We both opted for Bodhi’s. yum-yum! We chatted with a young woman sitting just to our left. She’s a hospital administrator at Mt Caramel, and a former school teacher. Her name is Melissa. We had a lot in common, both professionally and family-wise. Enjoyed the conversation. Said she’s a regular.

Mindy and I ate some deep-fried asparagus and later ordered dinner. Mindy went with the salmon special, a spicier variation of their usual salmon dinner. I opted for a 2nd appetizer, artichoke dip and flat bread. I had a 2nd Bodhi too. Near dinner’s end, Mindy asked if I would/could drive. Yes. I stopped after two beers and switched to water. Mindy ordered a 2nd Bodhi.

Stuck around another 30 minutes or so while Mindy enjoyed/finished her beer. Mindy picked up the check. We left for home around 740pm. Mindy chatted with peeps on our way out the door. Me and the host joked about her propensity to chat.

Arrived home still before 8pm. The kids were long behind us. They pulled up while Mindy was upstairs changing and while I was walking the pug out front. Bella asked if she could run down to Makayla’s. Yes. Jacob asked about leftovers and was bummed to learn that there were none. We tuned into Pawn Stars and eventually American Pickers a few minutes later. I fell asleep even before 830p in the family room chair. I was out! I woke when Mindy and the kids headed to bed around 9pm. I slept a few more minutes then tucked in Bella then joined Mindy in bed. But just as often happens after a long nap, I got my second wind and couldn’t sleep. Around 955pm I got back up and headed downstairs to check on the Reds game and then to do some reading.

The Reds won big, 9-2. I headed to the family room to read around 1015pm. I read until almost 11pm, or until I was sleepy enough to crash. Bella came to railing around 1030pm telling me that she couldn’t sleep either. I suggested she read, but with the door closed so the light wouldn’t wake Jacob across the hall. She liked that idea. I headed to bed around 11pm.

Returning the Bike

I slept pretty well and right past my normal rise time of 530am. Running a bit behind, I wasn’t downstairs until almost 550am. The smell of fresh coffee already permeated the entire house. I slipped into my exercise shoes then glanced out back. Still mostly cloudy though I could see a few breaks directly overhead.

More sleep sounded good but not really possible. I whipped out sit-ups effectively putting an end to the sleepies. I wasted little time going from sit-ups to push-ups. Because I was a little stiff, the push-ups weren’t as easy as usual, but I managed to get them done. I headed to the PC with coffee near 6am.

I checked the forecast. It was currently only 41 degrees under cloudy skies. Calling for clearing skies, breezy conditions and a high only in the low 50s. But after a cloudy weekend, just having sunshine in the forecast was a welcome addition. As is often the case, time on the PC went fast. It was 610am before I knew it and time to move on. Meditation was next, but not as fruitful as usual. Already after 620am, I decided I’d better wake Mindy ahead of a stretch.

We went to sleep with the ceiling fan going and the window cracked, but I turned off the ceiling fan sometime during the middle of the night. Mindy asked that I close the window just after I woke her. I left her coffee on the night stand and headed back downstairs for a stretch.

The stretch felt great. After reading that there would be a cold wind blowing out of the north, I dressed for a run in full winter attire including wearing hand and ear covers and headed out around 640am. I ran the full 4.1 miles comfortably. The hand covers were a bit much but I opted to leave them on for the run’s entirety.

Not sure the time when I made it back home buy figured it had to be close to 720am. Like most mornings, I sat at the bottom of the stairs waiting for the pug. She came down fairly quickly and we headed off on our walk. The scattered clouds around earlier were gone. It was mostly sunny but still cool and breezy. Eiknarf took care of her business speedily. We headed back home for breakfast.

Mindy had my eggs ready and waiting in the microwave. Bella was having a maple log for breakfast. She asked that I pour her some OJ when she saw me pouring some for myself. Mindy soon left for work while we finished breakfast. Mindy reminded the kids to bus home as normal. Just before I headed up for a shower Bella asked me to warm her yet another sliver of the maple log. I granted her wish then headed off for a shower.

After a shower, I had a rough time managing my new haircut after trying to avoid doing the heavy get thing. I ended up using a gel sparingly to plaster down the stubborn spots. I wasn’t happy with the results but it would have to do. I was downstairs organizing my lunch and tidying up the kitchen by 8am. The kids and I headed out at 808am.

We met Chrissy and Lillian at the bus stop. Makayla wasn’t feeling well and wasn’t going to school. Chrissy shared that Kenny took Annie in to have her fixed. The bus arrived a couple minutes late. Noticed one of the boys on the kids’ bus was sporting a new do – a full-on Mohawk. I gave him a thumbs-up sign. He just smiled. Headed back home with the pug to finish my ready.

Poured a 2nd cup of coffee then logged off my laptop and packed it up for work. Left the house near 825am. Running low on gas, I thought about stopping for a fill-up but ended up driving right by. Maybe after work. Arrived around 840am parking in one of the many spots open in the front lot.

It was 9am by the time I was settled and logged in. My boss stopped by soon after to see how the Sunday conference call went. He was apologetic when I shared that the call went 14 hours. Told me to take OT/comp time.

Ended up being one of the easier days I’ve had in quite some time. That was nice after a two week run of being almost too busy. I used my lunch time to do a little writing. Hopefully the entire week plays out similarly.

The day moved quickly. It was late afternoon in the blink of an eye. I left for home around 505pm. It was only in the low 50s, sunny, but also very windy. I left my Droid at home my accident, so I paired my blackberry with my car’s handsfree feature and then gave Mindy a call. She sounded tired. Shared that she was so tired that she actually took a nap after getting home from school and just before the kids showed up. Wasn’t sure what we’d be having for dinner.

I hoped to take Jacob’s bike back to Target after dinner. It’s a lemon. I’m not paying $130 or a bike and having to fix the same things every other day. I wasn’t sure the policy on bikes and found myself a bit anxious when thinking through the whole ordeal. I envisioned them giving me a hard time about it. We’d just have to see.

Arrived home just ahead of 530pm. Jacob was already off to his soccer game with his dad. Mindy was up and making cream of chicken & rice. Bella was in an exceptionally good mood. The three of us enjoyed dinner together, Bella at least trying the cream of chicken over rice. She didn’t care for it and opted instead for some of the leftover meatball sub. I ate the rest of her rice.

When Mindy asked who was taking Bella to gymnastics I volunteered sharing my plan to return Jacob’s bike. She asked if I would be doing the pick-up too. Since Mindy was so tired, I planned on doing both. Still fairly early, I took a very brief nap in the big chair, probably no more than five minutes. Felt good. Mindy shared that Lindsey texted her earlier. She called her back after dinner. She needed/wanted money for food. Was on her way over. She asked that I be kind.

She showed up a few minutes before it was time to leave with Bella, but stayed just long enough to pick-up the money. After they left I headed out to load Jacob’s bike into the Pilot. Because I had to lay both seats down, Bella got to ride up front, something she was thrilled to get to do.
Bella asked if it was OK if she took her sketch pad along with her to gymnastics. I found that a bit odd but allowed it after she assured me that she wouldn’t forget it.

I couldn’t help but notice how bright and sunny it was at 7pm. Just a couple months ago it was already dark at 7pm. I headed on to the Hilliard-Rome Target arriving about five minutes later. I felt a bit odd wheeling a bike into the store, but I had the receipt and all the associated paperwork. Jacob’s had the bike for only a week and rode it only a handful of times. And just like I shared with the woman at the customer service desk, unfortunately, I’ve had to wrench on it as many times. She wanted to know my intent, do you want it repaired? No! I want to return it. I shared that I shouldn’t have to have a new bike repaired. I went on to say that we had no faith in the bike, and the biggest problem was with the brakes. She placed a call to some guy, presumably from that department or the back warehouse. He asked if we wanted it fixed or returned. Returned. He agreed.

After hanging up the call she apologized but shared that she had to get the OK first. I went on to share that with the trouble being with the brakes, we didn’t want to chance something bad happening. I was on my way out the door in with the return receipt in less than five minutes.

I stopped at the Wal-Mart just down the road and on the way home thinking I might surprise Jacob with one of their Mongoose BMX bikes. But once I was there and looking over the BMX bike selection I decided I’d better not. Instead, we’ll need to decide on another option together. I headed for home. It was 730pm. I thought Jacob would be home from his soccer game by then but he wasn’t. Mindy was fiddling with a load of laundry. She asked how the return went. Fine.

Jacob and Jim showed up a couple minutes later. They lost 1-0. That’s three close games, all of them 1 point losses. Jim said the team they lost to was the best team in the league. Jacob was far less depressed than he was after the prior two losses. Perhaps he’s becoming more comfortable with losing.  Jim soon headed for home. Mindy gave Jacob a handful of dinner options. He eventually settled on grilled cheese, but just as she was starting to gather the stuff he changed his mind, opting instead for cereal.

I played around online until it was time to go after Bella. I was getting sleepy just sitting around. It was still completely daylight at 830pm. Had to wait a few minutes for Bella to finish whatever the heck she was doing. I reminded her to grab her sketch pad. She would’ve left it behind had I not said something.

Mindy & Jacob were watching Pawn Stars when we returned. After getting into my PJs I joined then in the family room. Mindy gave Bella a hall pass on a shower. Jacob had to take one. He headed to bed on his own around 9pm. In fact, so did Mindy. I expected that given how tired she was. At my request, she handed me my book so I could do some reading in the family room. Bella stayed up with me after Mindy gave her until 930pm. We watched American Pickers for a while, but once Bella headed upstairs, I turned the volume down and did some reading. I read about 5 or6 pages before I started to dose. I laid on the sofa until 950pm when I gave up and headed up to bed. I dispatched the pug to Bella’s room. The sound or movement of me placing her in the bed woke Bella. She asked for a tuck in and a dog toy. After quickly obliging her request I headed for my own bed. Good night!

14 hour Conference Call with Family

Woke at 625am feeling rested enough to get on with my morning without feeling cheated out of sleep. Now given my druthers, I would’ve stayed in bed another hour or so. I needed to be on the conference call near 730am so I has little time to make and enjoy coffee then complete my three mile run.

After starting coffee I played on the internet until it was ready. Gulped down some coffee then dressed for a run around 650am. I was out the door right at 7am. It was chilly and gray, not a pretty morning by any stretch.

I ran the three miles and was back at the house right around 730am. During my run I became a tad panicked when I realized that I no longer could remember my access code to the security doors at the office. Using the main entrance as I have for the past year, I haven’t had to use it. My original plan to head into the office for the call after the family woke was probably not going to happen. I took my time getting out of my gear, topping off my coffee, then joining the conference call. Already the customer was calling my blackberry wondering where I was. Geesh, give me a break! I ended up calling the fella back to let him know I was joining. It was 735am when I joined the call.

Sounded a bit chaotic. For one, there were too many people talking all at once. My job was relatively simple – just listen until when and if needed. I was using the Bluetooth head set so only I could hear the conference. That way it wouldn’t distract others in the house. Mindy got up around 830 or 9am. She quietly started making breakfast for Jacob and his three guests. She baked some bacon and made homemade waffles.

Around 10am she asked when I planned to run. Told her that I already had. Jacob and his buddies slept in until almost 10am. Said they stayed up until 3am watching TV and talking. I kept listening in on the call for the rest of the morning. If all went well it would end before 4pm. Another 10 or 11 boys were set to arrive around 1pm for Jacob’s birthday party. Not counting against that total were Rocky & Landon who Mindy invited to come too. I headed up to our bedroom for the next hour or two where I could hear the call so much easier.

With little to do other than listen, I did some reading and eventually some napping. I took a shower around 12noon all the while the conference call whirled in the background. I headed downstairs around 1230pm to help with the party in any small way that I could. Jimaken was over to help, which was nice.

Sure enough, Jacob’s friends began to arrive one by one until they were all accounted for. They all headed out back for the tree house to play. Too bad the weather was so pathetic. It was cloudy, breezy and cool – only 43 degrees at 1pm. For the seven years we’ve celebrated Jacob’s b-day together, I don’t think we’ve had super weather once. I was certain that this year’s was going to be the one with sunshine and 80s, but that wasn’t to be.

Once things were under control I headed back upstairs for some quiet where I could more easily listen in on the conference call. I stayed up stairs through the pizza but rejoined Mindy to get a few photos of the cake and presents. Time moved fast. Mindy asked most parents to be there to pick up their kids around 3pm. Mindy’s family was coming over at 4pm for party #2.

I helped Mindy tidy up the house after all the boys were gone, including rocky & Landon. Lindsey asked if they could stay longer so she could clean the apartment but Mindy said no. As 4pm neared it was pretty clear to me that the call wasn’t going to end anytime soon. There were a few issues that the customer needed to address. Just the same, I needed to remain on the call just in case we were needed.

I was available and downstairs when family arrived, and I think I greeted everyone. I ducked out numerous times to rejoin the call making sure I wasn’t missing anything or that they didn’t need me. Mindy ordered more pizza and subs, only this time not from Poppa John’s, but instead, Sporano’s. Before the pizza arrived I headed back upstairs for some quiet so I could listen in on the call as required. I did that a couple more times through the day’s 2nd birthday celebration. Like earlier, I was downstairs for the cake ceremony.

Family members began departing around 7pm, some maybe a bit earlier. I’d almost forgotten that Lindy planned to cut Jacob and my hair after the party. Next trip downstairs, Jacob was already having his hair cut. It ended up, all four of us had our hair trimmed or cut. Mindy & Bella both got a trim. I went last. Aside from Lindy, Joe was the only remaining family member. I paid for all of the haircuts. Afterwards I helped Mindy with party clean-up, though it wasn’t that bad.

Lindy left for home around 830pm. Joe hung out another hour or so. I stayed on the conference call until just before 930pm when I begged off for the night, but shared they could reach me reactively if necessary. They were agreeable to those conditions.

Jacob liked the airsoft rifle one of his school mates brought to the party. I took note of the name and model and found one online. Jacob opted to buy one with the pile of birthday money he received. Actually, I ordered it and then he paid me. He shared that the brakes on his new bike came off again. That’s the third time. We’re taking it back. Not going to take our chances with that happening. That results of that could be catastrophic.

It must’ve been around 940pm when Joe left for home. Soon after he left we all prepared for bed. Mindy said she was exhausted, and despite a few cat naps earlier in the day, I was really tired too. I did some reading from bed then headed in to tuck in Bella after she made the late request. Mindy reminded me that a day will come when she won’t want tucked in anymore. True that. I temporarily set the book aside and headed in to do the deed. Once back in bed, I read a few more pages before turning off the light.

Up a Wall

I was up and out of bed somewhere near 730am. It wasn’t a very pretty morning with thin cloud cover and wet streets and walks. It obviously had rained overnight but had stopped at least for the time being. I started coffee then checked in with work. Nothing pressing at the time.

I enjoyed coffee from my PC for the next couple hours, most of the time alone and in complete silence. Paul Postle, the backflow inspector came by earlier than expected. I didn’t yet have the paperwork ready and at the door. But once I heard him out there I quickly gathered up the necessary form and hung it from the storm door in a large Ziploc baggie. He wasn’t there but five minutes. I went ahead and wrote out a check paying him right then. No since in having him waste money and time billing me.

Mindy was up a short while later, and I’m guessing between 9-930am while the kids slept in. Jacob was up before Bella and Makayla. I’m thinking it was near 10am when I finally headed out for my run. By then, it was drizzling light rain and was rather cool, somewhere in the low 40s. Wasn’t expected to get very warm, only the low 50s. Like most Saturday’s, I ran just three miles.

As soon as I finished my run I headed out back to hang the tire swing using the new S hook I bought on Friday. It worked fine. After hooking it over the swivel mounted to the tree branch, I tried unsuccessfully to close it with a pair of channel locks. It should be fine as it is.

Inside, Mindy was busy finishing up our laundry as we were expecting Lindsey over around 1pm to do her laundry. Oh boy! Jacob readied for his soccer game. His dad was coming by to get him around noon. It was raining lightly but steadily and expected to continue through the afternoon. I let Jim borrow my umbrella before the left.

I spent the early afternoon throwing my March photos on my web album then watched a couple YouTube videos, one on how to paint a stucco exterior and then on how to remove/replace broken ceramic floor tiles. YouTube is an excellent ‘how to’ source for such things. Lindsey and the boys showed up right on queue. It’s sad, but she has zero charm. Instead of a hello, how’s it going, she barges in hollering for and at the boys. And so it begins.

In mood for interaction, I kept my distance. I could hear her reviewing her finances with Mindy. Sounds like she’ll be hundreds short of meeting her monthly bills this month. This is the slippery slope I warned her about when she used her first paycheck of the month to catch up on last month’s deficiencies. It’s always somebody else’s problem.

Mindy was heading to the grocery while I stayed home with Bella and Makayla, and as it turns out, with Lindsey and the boys too. I kept to myself at my PC while Lindsey hung with the kids in the kitchen. Can’t recall who got home first, Jacob from his soccer game or Mindy from the grocery. The plan all along called for Mindy and I to head to Giant Eagle after steaks and beer after unloading the weekly groceries. Lindsey was still working on her laundry and it sounded like she planned to stay for dinner. When she asked Mindy if she would pick her up a few things like bread, peanut butter, and then boneless chicken breasts I gave her an earful. I am in no mood to give charity to someone who spends $20 a week on cigarettes then cries too poor to by food.

Before leaving, Mindy asked Lindsey to snap the tails off the fresh green beans she bought at Kroger. Mindy knew I wasn’t in a pleasant mood. Being around Lindsey makes me that way. I just don’t gel with her personality type. No where is it written that a parent needs to like their offspring. As we set out for the Giant Eagle Market District Mindy did her best to calm me. Not only was I frustrated with Lindsey, but also a recent escalation request from work. Between the two, I wasn’t in a pleasant mood. We wound our way through Arlington north on Tremont to Market District. It was crowded. We had to park pretty far out in the lot.

Mindy sent me after the steaks while she picked up a couple things she forgot at Kroger and then a couple things for Lindsey. The plan was to get more of their prime beef. It’s expensive but for our money, worth it. Instead of the filets, I opted for two large Delmonico steaks. Between the two, they were almost $50. Yikes! Mindy met me there. Before heading to the beer and wine department, we headed over to the cheese department where I bought a wedge of aged French gouda. It was on sale for $9.99 lb as opposed to the regular price of $20 lb.

In the beer & wine department I had my eye out for any new IPAs. I saw a Sam Adams variety pack of six different IPAs. I thought about it, but opted not. Instead, I went for a six-pack of White Rajah while Mindy bought herself a bottle of wine. She dropped a cool $108 with seemingly little in our small cart. We headed for the Pilot with Mindy giving me grief for sporting a bad attitude.

On the drive home, Mindy said she wanted to grill right away. I understood her eagerness, but needed to follow-up on that work issue first. I spent about 30 minutes escalating that then joined Mindy in the kitchen. It must’ve been about 530pm. At the same time Lindsey was just finishing up her laundry. I headed out to the grill with the steaks only to find the propane tank empty. Oops! I was wondering how long it would last. We’d have to broil the steaks inside. Mindy wasn’t too pleased and shared that we need to buy a 2nd propane tank. I agreed.

She had tater tots baking in the oven for the kids. We let those finish before switching over to the broil mode. It didn’t take long. While the steaks cooked I stayed on top of a work issue. Some of the kids and Lindsey wanted chicken. Mindy cooked that in the grill pan on the stove top. Dinner was ready just after 6pm. The steak was good, but not the discernable quality difference detectable with the filet mignon.

Lindsey and the boys left for home soon after dinner. Jacob, meanwhile, was hosting three of his friends for a birthday sleepover. They were expected to arrived around 7pm. We were still in kitchen clean-up mode when the first arrived. In fact, all three showed up in all of about ten minutes. Jacob asked if neighbor Evan could stay the night too, but Mindy pooh-poohed that idea sharing that it’s a bad idea to mix age groups like that. She’s right. Evan’s about 4 years younger than Jacob and his classmates. One of the boys brought his airsoft rifle. And all four of the boys headed out back to play well into the evening hours. And while there were only three spending the night, eleven more were expected to show up Sunday afternoon for his actual party. At the time, my plan was to head into the office to join Sunday’s planned all-day conference call, so dealing with 14 preteen boys wasn’t in my cards, or so I thought.

Jacob and his friend were little to no trouble. They spent most of their time in his room playing video games or watching a movie. Mindy popped the boys three bags of popcorn to go along with the movie. And while they enjoyed the movie and popcorn, Mindy, Makayla, Bella and I hung out downstairs where I cracked one of my new White Rajah’s. What a difference fresh makes. It was far tastier than the ones I still have left from Valentine’s Day.

Since I needed to be up around 6am, we headed to bed around 10pm. I did a little reading from bed as did Mindy & Bella. After reading a chapter or two with Bella, Mindy dispatched her to her own room I’m guessing near 1030pm.

Great Day for Play ... Too Bad I had to Work

I was up early enough to brush my teeth and still be downstairs by 538am. I briefly glanced out back seeing mostly clear skies. I completed 50 sit-ups and 50 push-ups by 550am then headed to my PC with coffee. There I spent about 15 minutes relaxing. Expecting another lovely spring day with sunshine and temperatures in the mid 70s. Unfortunately, the bottom's supposed to fall out for the weekend and into the next work week. A good chance of rain and highs only in the mid 50s for the next several days.

Meditation was next. That went OK. headed upstairs to wake Mindy near 620am. As soon as she was awake I headed back downstairs to stretch. That went well too. Felt terrific. The temperature was in the mid 40s, so I dressed in early spring running attire heading out the door around 636am.

I ran the full 4.1 miles thinking about everything I needed to accomplish later that day at the office. I've got a lot on my plate right now. At times it feels like too much. It was a gorgeous sunrise. Would've been a great day for golf, yard work, or reading from the deck. At home Bella was already up along with Mindy. I quickly leashed up Eiknarf then headed out for our walk.

The older couple I often encounter both on my run and then when walking the dog passed by during the walk. Eiknarf was fairly quick to take care of her business. I was back at home to enjoy fried eggs by 725am. Bella and I enjoyed our breakfast together though I can't recall what she ate. As he often does, Jacob skipped breakfast. Mindy left for work at 730am. I finished my breakfast then headed for a shower a couple minutes later.

I was ready in a hurry and back downstairs by 750am. I used the time to pay a few bills, including boat storage and the XM radio. I then cut up some cheese for lunch. I still had a salad and fruit in the fridge at work from Thursday. The kids, the dog and I headed out at 808am. Talked with Chrissy for a few minutes after the bus picked up the kids. She shared details about her and Kenny's latest spat. None of it was a surprise, typical stuff.

Headed home where I wrapped up a few loose ends before leaving for the office. I'm thinking that I  headed out at 825am arriving at the office 15 minutes later. I got one of the last up front parking spots. I was settled into my office by 850am and online a couple minutes later.

Thanks to a early morning conference call being canceled, I had most of the morning to take care of a few pressing matters. I joined a call at noon and then another at 1pm. Both went a little better than I expected. At 130pm I left for a Home Depot run. Originally, I was going to drive to Lowes to take back the adjustable link I bought for the tire swing on Wednesday, but last second I decided to stop at the closer Home Depot. There I picked up a large "S" hook with an opening large enough to accept the swivel for the tire swing. I looked at a few more things but bought nothing else. I headed back to the office near 2pm.

Among other things, I spent that last few hours of my day making sure all our ducks were in a row for the all-day Sunday conference call I'd be joining with one of my customers. I wasn't looking forward to it, but did have Tuesday off to help offset the additional hours. I the 6th floor was almost deserted by the time 5pm rolled around. I was there until 530pm.

Unfortunately, clouds were rolling in as evening set in. Seems to happen a lot lately, an otherwise sunny day giving way to clouds about the time I'm leaving for home. I called Mindy as soon as I was able to resynch my Droid with the Accord's hands free feature. Said she was sitting on her pondside patio enjoying the nice weather. Apparently the sun was still shining at home. She asked if I wanted to take the kids to Barley's for dinner. Maybe.

I arrived home around 550pm. Mindy was inside while the kids were off riding their bikes and playing with friends. We finalized plans to have dinner at Barley's.  Bella asked if Makayla could join us. Yes. Chrissy walked down to chat with Mindy & I. She shared that she's not going to drink beer for two weeks.

While Mindy readied for dinner out, I finished off a couple blog entries. Jacob came in around 615pm asking if he could stay home. Mindy was adamant that he not. We left for Barley's near 640pm. It was crowded. We parked in the adjacent lot out back. There were a few spots in the main lot but I didn't want to try and squeeze the Pilot in.

Because we had the kids, Mindy requested a table. While we waited we enjoyed a beer from the bar. I ordered the West Coast Palate Wrecker IIPA, and Mindy ordered a Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald. A booth became available a few minutes later. Sarah was our server. All the kids ordered Dr Pepper, and Mindy ordered a basket of fries to hold them over until dinner. We ended up ordering a 2nd basket of fries before dinner arrived.

Jacob ordered chicken tenders while the rest of us ordered wings. Bella & Makayla split an order. I ordered a 2nd Palate Wrecker with dinner. It was pretty darn good. I ate 7 of my 10 wings. I was full. AS usual, the kids were in a hurry to leave once they finished eating. I was still savoring my 2nd beer. They pressed for me to hurry up. Despite Mindy saying she would cover dinner, I ended up getting the dinner check.  She picked up the small, two beer bar tab. Mindy and the kids headed to the Pilot while I finished my beer.

We headed for home around 820pm. Mindy drove. The kids headed off to play as soon as we arrived at home. I poured a White Rajah then headed out on the deck. It was starting to cool off considerably. I grabbed a fleece on my way out. Mindy eventually joined me. I piped music out to the deck. Mindy asked if I wanted to head over to visit Pat S. across the pond. I was comfy and cozy where I sat. We opted to stay home. We let Eiknarf roam the backyard and as darkness set in she disappeared. I headed out back where I found her nosing around back by the tree house presumably eating goose poop. She eventually followed me back to the deck.

Mindy & I stayed out on the deck until almost 930pm. Bella came in with Makayla a couple minutes later asking if she could spend the night. Mindy agreed. Both Mindy & I were yawning. By 10pm all of us headed for bed.

Knuckle Under

 I slept like a rock, and didn’t get up until 545am. I needed a good night of sleep. It felt terrific. And the truth is, I could’ve slept for another hour easily. The coffee was finished brewing, but I didn’t pour any until my calisthenics were completed (sit-ups & curls). Was finally pouring coffee just before 6am. Yum-yum! 

I was a tad stressed over the prospect of the quarterly presentation I’d be delivering to my biggest customer. Was anticipating an audience of about 25-30. I did my best to relax during coffee and then get in the zone during meditation. That always helps put things in their proper perspective. After sleeping late, I was running behind, so I figured I’d better wake Mindy ahead of a stretch.  

Had to be near 625am when I delivered her coffee. For the first time, I noticed that daybreak was upon us ahead of 630am. After mindy was awake I headed back downstairs to stretch and then ready for a run. Got out the door near 640am. It was again in the upper 40s, still cool enough that it required a pullover fleece but then again warm enough to not need hand and ear covers. Pretty comfy actually.  

I ran the full 4.1 miles thinking through my presentation, and probably over thinking it too much. I am always happy once my piece is done and over. Feels so good. The run went well. I consider myself blessed one to be able to pull of a 4.1 mile run every day, and then two, to do it completely pain free. The only ache anywhere on my body right now is my left hand that I somehow injured the last week of January, when we took nephew Joe-Joe skiing with us at MRM. I think I over stretched a ligament/tendon in my hand loading/unloading skis from the Thule. It hurts almost as much today as it did the following morning. It’s been 2.5 months. One thing is for sure, I don’t heal as fast as I used to.  

As usual, I was home from my run around 720am and headed inside to leash up the pug. She came as soon as I turned my back to her and sat at the foot of the stairs. Works like a charm. She took care of business in a timely, efficiently manner. Good girl! We headed home for eggs. By the way, the morning was unfolding beautifully. It was sunny and warming quickly. It was expected to reach into the mid 70s later in the day. 

Mindy made a plain omelet. She’s done a fantastic job mixing it up each morning just as  I requested a couple months prior. However brief, all of us were at the breakfast table together before Mindy needed to depart for work. She asked the kids to bus home as normal but also shared that if by some slim chance she wasn’t home when they got off to the bus, to start on their homework. She would be home as soon as she picked up the boys from after school care at Magdalene. Soon after Mindy left, I was off to the shower. It had to be near 740am.  

I was downstairs again by 8am putting together a lunch. Aside from getting the kids on the bus, I wasn’t in any hurry. The quarterly presentation wasn’t until 10am, and I didn’t plan to leave the house until 9am. I saw the kids onto the bus. Chrissy was there and reminded me that it was their 4^th wedding anniversary. Said that Kenny was mad about something. Bummer! I wished her well. 

Back at the house I made sure I had the revised copy of the quarterly presentation, which meant I had to log on to intranet and download the Power Point to my laptop. That took a few minutes. I didn’t want to get too comfortable. I ended up leaving the house at 855am. It was a gorgeous drive through downtown and north again to New Albany. Was there by 915am.  

After a little doing, I found the elusive conference room where I met up with one of my peers. She and I joined our weekly staff call at 930am. That lasted only about 10 minutes. We chatted casually while awaiting the arrival of others. We got started a tad late thanks in part to one of our folks having to make his way in from their deep parking lot on crutches.  

My piece was fourth, which I absolutely hate. I always prefer going first, getting my stuff out of the way so I can relax. Instead, the tension mounts as each participant before presents. And then a slide or two in front of me I get really nervous. I quickly employ the ‘everybody is naked’ thing, but that really doesn’t work. What does calm me, though, is a quick meditative moment where I remind myself how smart, well-prepared and valuable I am.  

I had 5 or 6 slides to present and they went without much questioning. I felt a huge sense of relief after. I wouldn’t call it my best by any stretch. But more importantly it was over. At the end some customer survey results were shared with the entire group. I was embarrassed for all the written praise bestowed upon me. That was nice! 

I hung out afterwards to meet a few key folks I’d be working with over the next few weeks. I’m guessing that I was there for another 30 minutes or so. I left for the office around 1145pm. Where had the morning gone? 

It was a gorgeous, but long walk out to the Accord. No kidding, about a quarter mile. OK, maybe that’s a bit exaggerated, but it’s a long walk. I took 270 because I’d be exiting at Tuttle. That’s far quicker regardless of traffic. I arrived at the office near 1215pm. My boss stopped by a couple of times asking how things went. Good! I, in turn, walked to a peers office to see how the meeting went with one of my other customers’, which I had to miss due to the quarterly presentation. That meeting went well to, but there was a question I needed to answer for them. No problem.  

My afternoon was psycho busy. I had an awful lot going on seemingly all at once. It was a bit overwhelming but I managed through it all. And I’ll say this much, I earned my money and did a great job doing it. Just ask me! 

I didn’t get out of the office for the day until close to 530pm. I called Mindy once I was on the road for home. As planned, she picked up the boys and was busy prepping dinner – hodge-podge (leftovers). There was a gyro, blazin’ chicken, and meat loaf. I opted for meatloaf. Said all the kids were out playing with water balloons. Arrived home near 545pm. 

After greeting Mindy, I headed out to the tree house area to hopefully fix the tire swing. You may recall, I bought some chain and a variable link to hopefully reconnect it at the swivel on the tree branch. I took a step ladder and an assortment of wrenches with me. Oops! The variable link wasn’t big enough to fit around the swivel at the tree branch. I wasn’t able to finish the work right then. Crap! I hate that. And by the looks of it I wasn’t sure if the bigger size would even do the trick. I immediately started thinking of a plan ‘B’ as I made my way back to the house and for dinner. 

Everybody was eating inside. I hurried up and dished up my own plate before all the leftovers were gone. I had the rest of the meatloaf and mashed potatoes. It was quite good. The kids ate quick and headed back outside for more play time. Mindy shared that Rocky was now taking his ADD meds as prescribed and that Landon shared that he’s wearing a pull-up at night. So Mindy’s Sunday rant made a lasting or temporary impact.  While happy to hear all that, I reminded Mindy that one of Lindsey’s biggest problems is ongoing follow-thru. Baby steps! 

Speaking of Lindsey, she showed up around 645pm to pick-up the boys. As they often do, they asked to take home snacks much like we did at grandma’s house when we were kids. Lindsey asked when she could do her laundry. Mindy first shared that the boys were welcome to come to Jacob’s bday party on Sunday, but that she didn’t want Lindsey there doing laundry. Too chaotic. She recommended Saturday instead. NO further details discussed.  

Mindy walked down to talk with Chrissy after Lindsey and the boys departed. I shared that I might just nap. But in reality, I played on the PC. Mindy wasn’t gone long, and when she returned acted shocked that I was still vertical. We chatted quietly while the kids played outside. When Jacob finally came home around 745pm I headed out to the garage to fix the handle bars on his new bike. They weren’t tight enough and were all the way forward. Not only did I tighten the handle bars, but also adjust the front brakes as well as giving all the nuts an extra crank. Many were loose.  

Tim for American Idol elimination night. It was Mindy, Jacob and I. Bella was still out playing. She didn’t come home until almost 830pm. Just before she got home I suggested we act upset and share that she was supposed to be home at 815pm. In reality, mindy didn’t give her a curfew. Mindy wanted no part of upsetting Bella, but Jacob did. When she came in and settled on the sofa, both Jacob and I played off one another. First, I asked why she wasn’t home at the agreed upon time of 815pm. And when she said there was no agreed upon time, Jacob quickly chimed in that there was and that he clearly told her more than once. He did so convincingly, I might add. Bella, as you might guess, got upset and even cried. Mindy comforted her and told her that we were only teasing. She wasn’t a bit amused.  

As for American Idol, Colton was sent home much to the surprise of everyone. But at this late stage, anybody can be sent packing. After Idol ended we stayed tuned into FOX catching Touch. It was a very good episode. As usual, I dosed off for a few minutes towards the end but caught the most critical parts. We all headed to bed at 10pm. Mindy had me DVR because she was supposed to join Bella for some reading in bed, but she found herself so wrapped up in the plot that she couldn’t walk away. 

Like the night before, I hopped into bed and under the covers before Mindy made it in. I heard her tell Bella that I was already asleep when Bella asked that I tuck her in. Not wanting to let her down, I upped and headed to her room. She pouted to me about Mindy not spending enough time reading with her and instead watching Touch, though Bella watched too. I calmed her down and offered that she could read the book herself until she was sleepy. She agreed that was a good idea and tuned on her night stand light and settled in with her book. Good night Bella!

Desparate Sparrow

I slept better than I did Tuesday night but still not as good as I hoped/wanted.  It took me a while to fall asleep and then come 4am I woke every 20 minutes until it was time to get up for keeps. That was near 535am, and I was downstairs engaged in exercise a few minutes later.

One might conclude that having Tuesday off work would make the work week move by faster. However, I kept thinking it should be Thursday as I progressed through my morning routine. And once that thought was ingrained in my brain it was hard to shake.  I completed sit-ups and push-ups the n played at the PC. The morning’s top headline announced the passing of a legend, Dick Clark. He was 82! There’s no doubt, he played a formidable role in my youth. 

The day’s weather called for sun and the low 70s. By all accounts, a lovely spring day. In fact, it’s supposed to be nice through Friday but then rainy and cool for the three days after. At the time, it was 47 degrees under clear skies. I am on-call over the weekend so I wasn’t too bummed with the forecast. Let’s save the sun and warmth for my free weekends. J  

Enjoyed coffee and internet until 610am when I pulled myself away for meditation and stretch. Both went reasonably well. Delivered Mindy’s coffee at 622am. I noticed Mindy had our bedroom window opened and I had the heat on and up. I closed the window before heading back downstairs. I heard the trash truck emptying our can out front. Time to ready for a run. I dressed in spring weight running gear and my fleece pullover. No hand and ear covers.  

I was out the door near 640am. It was already daybreak. I ran the full 4.1 miles. Still a little stiff from Tuesday’s ladder work, but the Advil I took the evening before helped a bunch. As I reentered the house after my run I noticed how the front porch is staying relatively clean after removing the ivy. No more bird crap and nest remnants. No more darting birds either, although I am still seeing a few stragglers fly up and then cling to the stone facade as if saying, “what the… where’d my house go?”  

Leashed up the pug while Mindy and Bella toiled in the kitchen. Eiknarf and I headed out and across the street. She was slow to take care of business. A lot of sniffing and a lot less doing. Finally, joy. We headed home for eggs. Bella was having dry cereal and goldfish for breakfast. Seemed a bit unusual for her. She did, however, eat some fresh fruit as well. We always have a tray of fresh fruit out on the breakfast table. Mindy reminded the kids to bus home as normal then she left for work.  

I headed off to the shower around 740am and just after dishing up some eggs for Eiknarf.

Ready by 8am. The kids and I headed out to the bus stop at 808am. Met Kenny and the girls. Asked Kenny where I might find the composite plywood with wood grain. He suggested looking/calling fifth avenue lumber. Good idea. Bus arrived on time. Soon the kids were off to school and Eiknarf and I back home.  

Tied up a few loose ends then left for work in new Albany. Took 670 east through town then north on 270. Traffic backed up near downtown but loosened again quickly. Arrived near 855am. Our 10am meeting was postponed until 1030am and even then we talked about issues unrelated to its original purposes but still important.

Stayed busy with a handful of customer issues for the rest of the morning, including finalizing yet another monthly report.  Left for lunch and the Easton Lowes near 1pm. Wanted to see if they had any irrigation system parts. They did but nothing I could use. I was also there to look for outdoor spray paint for our large deck planters as well as to get 3’ of heavy-duty chain for our tree house tire swing. I got everything on my list after lots of casual browsing. Back to the office at 150pm. By mid afternoon it was absolutely gorgeous. It was sunny and 70 degrees. Just a perfect day. 

Spent my afternoon finishing up that monthly report. Left for home around 510pm. Decided it way more efficient to take 270 home. It’s longer but faster and typically without any major hold ups. Talked with Mindy until I passed the Tuttle mall. She was making dinner, blazin’ buffalo chicken. No sooner had we ended our call when the traffic backed up. Oh no! It was almost at a stand still for about a half mile but thankfully opened up again and was tight but smooth sailing the rest of the way home. Got home around my regular time of 545pm.  

Jacob was off to soccer practice and Bella out in the yard tossing Easter eggs into the pond. It’s an annual ritual. I wasn’t home but a minute or two when Mindy asked me to call Bella in for dinner, but she was already making her way back to the house. Mindy shared that she’d be picking up the boys for Lindsey Thursday evening so Lindsey could work OT. She definitely needs the money, so we willingly agreed.

Dinner was delicious. The blazin buffalo chicken was quite tasty. Bella enjoyed helping Mindy pound the boneless chicken breast with the meat hammer. When I asked Mindy if we were having some of the artisan French bread she bought Sunday, she said not. Already too hard. Bella quickly chimed in that she’d be happy to beat it with the hammer. We all got a chuckle out of that and then explained that it wouldn’t work to soften the bread. Bella ate quite a bit, and certainly more than she usually does. She had an ear of corn. Three helpings of mac and cheese, blazin buffalo chicken, and a few cucumbers. 

It was a gymnastics night. Bella readied for the go while I cleaned up the kitchen. I was tired before dinner and even more so afterwards. I couldn’t wait to lie down. As soon as the clean-up was behind me, I headed for the sofa. Mindy and Bella headed out around 650pm. I was out in a hurry. Slept until 712pm. A minute later I heard Mindy’s horn, presumably locking the car. She was home from dropping Bella.

We hung out for a few minutes alone until Jacob returned from soccer practice. We had a plate of Mindy’s special buffalo chicken waiting for him in the fridge, but he came in with a bag from Canes. He ended up eating that as well as what we had set aside for him. He was in a far better mood that he was the evening before. 

Even though I was already in my PJs, I threw on some lounging pants and headed off to pick-up Bella around 820pm, right after seeing two Idol contestants sing. Bella was ready and waiting when I got there for a change. She was in a good mood, but wanted to know why here mom didn’t come after her. She’s been very ‘momma needy’ lately. 

Back at home we watched American Idol and enjoyed some popcorn. Mindy and the kids watched I to its conclusion. After the popcorn was gone, I actually fell asleep on the family room floor with about 10 minutes still to go. I slept good and hard too.  I woke when everyone else headed for bed, but was in bed and settled before the others. I was tired!