Off with her knee!

It was Wednesday and I was up right on time. A quick glance skyward confirmed what was forecasted. Nothin' but clear skies, so the stars were out in full force. Very nice. Thank you universe!

Like I did the day before, I did my stretch routine before anything else. Felt good.

Good timing. Right after I finished my stretch, the coffee had finished its brewing process. I poured my first cup of coffee then headed to my PC to check the weather and headlines. Like a lot of days in the past couple weeks, it was 54 degrees. Expected a high in the mid 70’s with nothing but sunshine. Expecting the same for the next four or five days, too.

I must’ve spent about 20 minutes online, before walking away to first deliver Mindy’s coffee and then meditate. Finished both those tasks by 625am. Time to run, I wore a short sleeved wicking shirt along with a pullover fleece. I hit the street near 630am.

I ran the usual 4.1 mile track without a problem. It was nice to see the sky turn from indigo blue to a burnt orange. Back at home, I inspected the newly seeded areas of my front lawn. Finally, we have germination at the 10 day mark. Because it’s a mix of fescue and blue grass the germination schedule is wide - 10-21 days. I took a minute to give those areas a squirt of water to combat the all-day sunshine before heading in to breakfast.

Inside, everyone was in good spirits. Funny what nice weather will do for one’s attitude. Both kids were having Fruit Loops again. I had fried eggs. They were good. The available fruit, however, left a bit to be desired. The pineapple looked bad and the strawberries on their last leg.  I ate a few select strawberries, raspberries, and watermelon.

I’m pretty sure that Mindy told the kids to bus home with Noah for having another after school meeting. She left near 730am. I headed off to the shower a couple minutes later. I dressed somewhat casual since we were having our team symposium.

Checked the blinds.com website for any new shipping information for my recent purchase. Nothing. The kids and I headed to the bus stop at 810am. The bus was along after a few short minutes. Walked Eiknarf out front before heading inside. Left for work at 818am. I was in a hurry, needing enough time once at work to set-up my out-of-office.

Turns out, I had plenty of time. I was one of the first at the conference room. I introduced myself to all the folks I hadn’t met before (those that came in fro Cincy, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Louisville. We didn’t get started until about 930am.

I’ve never been one to enjoy round the room introductions. And if I have to do it, I much prefer to go first. I was close to last on this occasion, though I wasn’t as nervous as I thought I might be. Don’t ask me why I get nervous. Always have.

We went until 1130am when lunch arrived: pizza, salad, and pop. My boss was quick to share that I was gonna eat poorly with the rest of them this day. I was happy to partake. You see, eating extra healthy 95% of time affords me opportunities such as this to eat crap completely guilt free.

It was a working lunch. We continued marching through our tight agenda. At some point my peers and I headed off to another conference room to talk issues pertaining more specific to only us. We had some good dialogue.

We reconvened near 230pm to forge through our last hour together. We stuck to the agenda closely and called it complete at 330pm. I took a peer from Cincy downstairs to meet some of the engineers he’s worked with but had never previously met. I returned to my office to catch up on everything that built up through the day. I ended up working until almost 6pm. I had a lot to do.

And since I was working off site on Thursday, I had to remember to pack up all the essentials. I called Mindy on my drive home. Never asked what was for dinner. Got a text late afternoon from mom’s friend Denise sharing that her knee replacement surgery went well. Thanks Denise! If all went as planned, I hoped to head down to Adena Thursday after work.

Again, it was nice to drive home smothered in sunshine. Mindy and Bella had already eaten. They left some for me on the stove – tortellini and red sauce. It was good. It was Wednesday and a gymnastics night for Bella. Mindy said she'd deliver. Wanted me to pick-up. Still dealing with nagging cold symptoms, I really wanted to take a brief nap on the livingroom floor. However, Jacob was after me to toss the football. It's something we haven’t done in ages.

I put the nap on the back burner and headed out with Jacob, who wanted to use our regulation size football. We haven’t used it since we bought two or three smaller balls. I had to laugh while we tossed the ball thinking back to the first time he and I threw the football when he was 5 or 6. He’d frequently run in crying to Mindy after falling or taking the ball in chest, head, or groin. Not anymore. He’s gotten pretty good. Can throw the ball really well. It took a while for my arm to loosen. I’ll bet we tossed the football for 30 minutes. A good work out.

Inside, I took brief rest before going after Bella. Arrived a few minutes early. They quickly released Bella, but I asked if I could see her routine. Absolutely. Her coach called her to attention and had her run through the entire thing. She did a tumbling thing, then a mini-trampoline routine followed by one on the larger trampoline. She did great! I applauded her effort. I could tell she was proud of herself. As we walked to the car she told me that was the best she’s ever done. Wanted to confirm that I’d be at her first formal performance on the 15^th, too. Said she can’t wait. It did my heart good to see/hear here enjoying it that much. She’s definitely built like a gymnast.

At home both the kids readied for bed and had a snack. I dosed from the sofa for about 20-30 minutes. Mindy and the kids headed to bed shortly after 9pm. I woke and felt wide awake. I ended up popping some popcorn. I enjoyed it by my lonesome while watching Dark Matters. Good night moon!

aND sO iT bEGINS

SNOWING ON MT HOOD!!

I woke Tuesday eager to see clear skies. I was disappointed to find thick fog. Not only that, but I woke about 15 minutes late. I wasn't at all worried though. Because I was planning to skip calisthenics, I was really behind schedule. Before doing anything else I glanced out at the fog. After a minute of that I decided to do my stretch routine even before having coffee. Felt good to stretch first thing, but if one day is any indication, I am much looser, more flexible after sit-ups and push-ups and coffee.  Note to self.

After a stretch I headed to the PC. It was 605am. I checked the forecast almost dreading a change. There wasn’t. Was supposed to be sunny after the fog burnt off. Sunny and 70 degrees at that. Checked the MNF final. Colts lost. They’re 0-4 just like my Vikings. Still, little consolation. I enjoyed coffee and internet for the next 10 minutes. Delivered Mindy’s coffee around 615am and just before meditation.

Meditation went well. Headed off on my run at 632am. It was foggy and 50 degrees. I skipped the ear covers, but still wore gloves. I ran the full 4.1 miles. Sadly, missed the trash truck. Jacob didn’t do his duty the night before. Had it been more of a concern, I guess I could’ve drug our can across the street. There trash isn’t picked up until last (ours is first). I chose to let it go. Only half full anyway.

Mindy had my eggs ready and waiting. I calmly coached Bella just as her mother did the night before. “Be sure to read all the answers before making your final selection. She went on to explain how her reading teacher taught her the same technique. Good. I was happy she was so receptive. Bella’s strength isn’t really her patience and focus. J

Mindy was soon off to work and me off to the shower. Nothing new.  I was downstairs and ready to go by 750am. I spent a few minutes tracking the solar shades I bought on Sunday via the supplied UPS tracker tool. Not a lot of details. Just a shipping number and weight.  The kids and I headed out to the bus stop at 810am. Still foggy but I could tell it wouldn’t be long before the sun was shining. In fact, soon as I hit the freeway towards work, the sky started to clear. It was nice to see the sunshine. I hope to drive the BM’er at least once this week.

Work was very busy. I split my time between reactive and proactive stuff. My boss stopped by a couple of times to give me some props. I was feeling a little overwhelmed and I think her sensed it. Let me know I’d be getting another big customer. I am a little worried for my sanity and ability to deliver top notch service to both. But we’ll see.

I didn’t leave for lunch again. Had no where I needed/wanted to go. I ate my lunch from my desk and did a little writing over the span of an hour. I left for home around 540pm. And I’m happy to report that it was sunny and warm. That was so nice to see! Was about 72 degrees. Perfect!  Talked with Mindy late afternoon. She was making enchiladas.

Arrived home around 6pm. Jacob was already off to soccer practice. Bella came running to give me a hug. Asked her about the OAA tests. Thinks she did good. We sat for dinner a couple minutes later – chicken enchiladas. They weren’t as good as the last batch but still tasty. Bella didn’t like them at all. Opted for cereal instead. After dinner clean-up, I spent a lot of time dealing with a work issue via blackberry. I also played on the computer.

Jimaken dropped Jacob off around 730pm. By then it was almost dark.  Sometime during the day I started feeling like I might be coming down with a cold. I didn’t take anything and was hopeful it wouldn’t get any worse. As it was, I had a slightly stuffy nose and felt a tad feverish. I felt tired too. I ended up snuggling up on the sofa and falling asleep. It must’ve been about 830pm. I slept for about half an hour. Woke long enough to tuck in the kids and then spend a little more time on the PC but then headed for bed. I was hoping that after a good night’s sleep I would leave the cold symptoms in the dust. Good night moon!

What if I say Please?

It was Monday and the beginning of another work week. I could see a few stars behind a thin veil of cloud cover. I hoped the clearing would prevail. I was up slightly ahead of 530am and ready to go about the business of exercise. It took me a few seconds to remember that I wasn’t planning to do any for another full week. That simplified things. I played on the PC waiting for the coffee to finish.

It was chilly, and according to Yahoo, only 39 degrees.  Burr! Expecting a high near 60 with the promise of sunshine after Monday and for the next several days.  I don’t think we’ve had more than two partly sunny days in a row since late August.  I was hopeful this forecast would stick.

I enjoyed coffee then stretching early, before taking Mindy her coffee. My plan was to leave meditation for last, or just ahead of my run. That’s what I did. After meditation I headed out for my run bundled warmly with hand and ear covers for the second day in a row. I felt good and did the 4.1 miles in about 38 minutes.

Mindy had my fried eggs ready and waiting. Mindy joked with Bella that her b-day was over. Also told her she wasn’t planning to take her to gymnastics that evening since she had OAA testing on Tuesday. Wants her to get plenty of rest ahead of the test. Bella didn’t seem to mind.

Both kids enjoyed some of Bella’s fruit loops for breakfast. Mindy left for work at 730am while I scooted off to the shower. Mindy placed a roast in the crock pot just before departing. Asked me to remove the bottom packaging once melted and then season. Of course, dear.

At the bus stop at 810am. By then it was mostly cloudy. UGH! Both Chrissy and I commiserated over the less than stellar weather. Soon the kids were on the bus and I was off to work. I was extremely busy with proactively pulling the previous months statistics for my customer. I didn’t bother taking a formal lunch break. Worked hard. The day just flew by.

Called Mindy just before heading home. Said my dad was over for dinner.  I ended up working a few minutes late, but nothing out of control. Think I left at 545pm. By then the sky was clearing and it was warm even. If the forecast was correct, we’d see sunshine for the next 6 or 7 days. Wahoo!

Sure enough, dad was at the house when I got home. Looked as good as he has in years. In fact, I even complimented him on his haircut. Did it himself. Always has. Said he was feeling good too. Asked if I or any of the brothers planned on attending mom’s surgery Wednesday. Couldn’t be on a worse day for my schedule. I will be in an all day symposium that day.  Dad was noncommittal about his presence, though didn’t really expect him to be there. I quipped that maybe Bobby would go.

Dad also shared that aunt Linda’s stone was installed and looked really nice, even had grass growing over the area now. Good news! We enjoyed roast beef and mashed potatoes – one of my favorites. Mindy heated canned corn too. It tasted surprisingly fresh.  After dinner Mindy offered up some of Bella’s leftover b-day cake as desert. It was yummy – fresh – moist.  Makayla was over by then and had some too.

I’m thinking it was near 715pm when dad headed for home. Once the kitchen was sparkling clean I headed to the livingroom where I took a nap from the floor with my legs propped up on a chair. Crazy comfortable! I woke just before 830pm when I heard Mindy and Jacob going back and forth over what channel they could find the MNF game. They were all over the place. Not sure if they ever figured it out. Can’t remember. At any rate, it’s 1301 – ESPN.

I joined just before kick-off - Colts vs. Tampa Bay. It was a close game, and enjoyable to watch. Mindy and the kids were in bed by 9pm, but Bella was busy until about 915pm. Rarely goes right to sleep. I stayed up until halftime. I believe the Colts lead at that point. Good night moon! That’s right, it was back!

Crystal Eyita Lopez Reyes

Happy 9th Birthday Bella!

I heard Mindy get up a time or two and talk to the girls. Not sure the time. I got up for good at 745am. I was excited to see nothing but blue out the half moon window in our master bedroom. Mindy wanted to snuggle but I wanted to start coffee and see some sunshine.

I headed downstairs where I started some coffee then headed to the PC. I checked the final of the Wisconsin game. They ran away with it. We don’t have a prayer against either. I could already tell that my decision to skip sit-ups and push-ups for a while was paying off. My shoulders, neck and upper back were feeling as loose as they have in weeks. In the back of my mind, however, I worried about going soft. But given the choice between soft and in constant pain I guess I’ll choose soft. With few exceptions, I’ve been cranking out 55 sit-ups and push-ups everyday for the last 15 years. About 300,000 push-ups/sit-ups. That’s a lot of push-ups! I guess it’s OK to take a little siesta.

All the girls were up and downstairs a little while later. Mindy thankfully got up too. I took Eiknarf out for a walk. It was cold, only about 40 degrees. I left for a run while Mindy started waffles for all the girls. I wore running gloves and ear covers for the first time this season. That’s probably earlier than ever before. The important thing was being comfortable. It was sunny, so sunglasses were in order too.

The run came easy. Felt terrific. And believe me, it was nice to be in the sunshine without a cloud anywhere to be seen. The girls were done eating their breakfast by the time I returned. Hungry, I opted for three plain waffles as opposed to those with embedded chocolate chips.  I’m quite sure Mindy told most parents that the pick-up time should be around 11am. Still only about 1015am, I readied to cut the lawn. I didn’t want to waste a minute of the gorgeous, yet chilly, fall weather.

I cut the front and eastside yard first, and raised the blade for the most of the front. The lawn was tall, thick, green and damp. I thought I might go over it twice but decided against it. Looked good and clump free. As I headed around back I lowered the blade an inch. I had to rake away all the fallen walnuts before I could do the west side. Saturday’s rain, wind and cold brought ‘em all down. I did the tractor part next. That’s always refreshing. While I was busy whacking, edging and blowing the last of the parents came by to fetch their daughters. Mindy was about to leave for the grocery just as I was finishing up in the yard. She had the house pretty much ready for Bella’s family party before she left.

She wasn’t gone but a few minutes when Bella came in pouting that she had no one to play with and then ran off to her room. I left her alone for about ten minutes but then went looking for her. We had a nice little chat. I felt bad for her since it was her 9^th birthday and she was sad with no one home to play with. All of her friends had to run here of there with their parents.

I offered to do whatever she desired, and gave her a list of options since she couldn’t think of anything. Everything was a no, until I suggested Frisbee. Said she didn’t know how but would try. She and I headed out back into the sunshine with the purple 160 gram Frisbee. Despite a stiff breeze, Bella did terrific. And certainly better than both Mindy & Jacob. I was impressed. Not only could she throw it, but she could catch it too. We threw Frisbee for a good 30 minutes.

She was laughing and smiling by the time we finished. We only stopped when a mallard duck came up to us from the pond. It was by its lonesome and seemed eager for some human time. By then neighbor Lillian was back home and joined Bella by the fearless duck. In all my years by the water, I’ve never had one so willing to approach and take food right from a hand. They typically get close but back away until you drop what you’re feeding them. Not this one.

I went inside to get some bread from the trash, bread I saw the girls waste and throw out earlier. Sure enough, the girls were afraid and back away at first, but I assured them that if they sat down and held out their hand the duck would eat from it. It did. It ate from their hands, my hands, and even their laps. I got a couple cool photos too. Then, out of nowhere, it must’ve heard one of its friends. I noticed it tip its head and then turn and run. I went to see where it went in such a hurry. Sure enough, another duck was waiting in the water. Hmmm?

The plan all along was for us to head to Minelli’s north at 415pm to meet the family for dinner. Jimaken brought Jacob home after an airsoft birthday party that he attended earlier around 4pm. After Jacob changed clothes, we all rode to Minelli’s as a family, Jimaken included.

Minelli’s being just around the corner, we were there in a jiffy. Mindy had alerted Kathy of our large party before  hand. We figured on 20. As usual, we were seated by the window.  Mindy and I took the center table. Gloria wasn’t present. Mindy gave her a call to see what gave. It seems she was waiting for someone to call to arrange her pick-up. Didn’t want to be driving in the dark later. Niece Julie gleefully rose to the occasion and went after her. Jimaken’s parents were there too. First that Candy has been out of the house for several weeks after a series of medical mishaps. She’s always pleasant as is Jim’s father, Tom.

I think niece Lindy was the last to arrive for a total of 20. Mindy told Kathy to give us the check. Bella’s b-day, the dinner was on us. Everybody ordered their Minelli’s favorites. Mindy & I split an extra-large 4 topping pizza. Dinner was yummy. After about 90 minutes of Minelli’s fun we all headed back to our place for cake and presents. That, of course, was after getting nephew Joe’s car started. Seemed to be an issue with his solenoid/starter.

Mindy got the cake and gift thing underway while I walked Eiknarf. She quickly did both. I walked back inside with b-in-law Larry, who was still monkeying around with Joe’s car.  The parenting never ends. Never!

Bella spent about 20 minutes opening her presents. She seemed to enjoy them all. She got a good balance of clothes, which almost every girl appreciates, and fun stuff. If a smile and laughter is any indication, she really liked her airsoft gun and couldn’t wait to head out side and shoot it with the boys. And from an outfit standpoint, I think it’s fair to say that she liked the purple jeans and blingy shirt that Katie and Julie got her most. I liked them them most too.

It was comical listening to Julie’s trepidation over the airsoft guns all the kids were slinging around on the back deck. Judging by her reaction I’ll assume her pro gun control. Like with anything, good parenting and good values is the more critical element.

After presents it was time for singing the b-day song and cake. Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Bella, happy birthday to you! B-in-law Larry volunteered to work OT at the firehouse. He planned to go in right after leaving our place. He asked if he could borrow a shaving razor so he could ‘neaten up’ before heading in. Not owning a true electric razor ( I use a beard trimmer) I hooked him up with my manual razor, the one I only use, I don’t know, 5 or 6 times  a year. I tried putting in a new blade not remembering how old the one in it was. However, the blades I tried wouldn’t fit. I later learned for good reason. They were the blades from my old, old razor. I found the right ones in the under cabinet after everyone left. He used the old quarto blade and it apparently worked fine. I got a chuckle out of the whole thing.

Soon everyone departed for home. I’m guessing it was near 730pm. We let the kids play outside until completely dark. The house was comparable easy to get back together after doing the dinner thing out. Note to self, especially when you’ve got to work the following day.

Spent a little time online reviewing the headlines about the Vikings loss to the hapless Chiefs. They're now 0-4. Maybe next year. L At some point we tuned into SNF featuring the Baltimore and the NY Jets. The Ravens were manhandling the Jets when I headed for bed. Can’t recall the time but think it was near 10pm. The clear skies from earlier were gone. We were completely socked in under clouds once more.  Really?

Skating Away on the Thin Ice of a New Day

I slept well and didn’t get up until almost 8am.  I felt fine, and after brushing my teeth I headed downstairs where I started coffee then played on the internet. Mindy, by the way, didn’t budge. I guessed she wouldn’t be joining me anytime soon. However, she couldn’t sleep too late, because we needed to be in Marysville for Jacob’s soccer game by 10am. Oh boy!

It was beyond crappy outside, blustery even. It was rainy, windy and only 40 degrees. Heading out for a run was gonna be a real treat, but even worse would be sitting/standing on the sidelines of a soccer game.

Mindy was up just ahead of me heading out for a run. She planned to shower while I was away. Said she had a bit of a hangover. No, really? Without many options, Around 845am, I headed out for my run in the sloppy autumn weather around. Believe me, I wasn’t looking forward to it.

I ran the typical weekend trail – only 3 miles. It was chilly and raw but I warmed quickly with my own body heat. It was near 930am by the time I was back home and Mindy was downstairs ready. She shared that Jacob called and reported not having his soccer shorts. Needed us to bring them. Not good. I had already decided not to shower. Why? I’d just get all wet again, and besides, I planned to wear my wicking running clothes anyway. I did change out of my sweaty/wet shirt and pullover fleece. I woofed down a cheese stick or two as well ,but was still hungry.

Mindy was struggling to get directions to the soccer field in Marysville. Said we’d have to use GPS. I only asked that she get it ready before we walked out. She was stressing about us being late while fumbling with her Droid. Never did get it working. I said I’d use mine after I finished my cheese stick. I also shared that we wouldn’t be stressing about getting there. If we were late, we’d simply be late. Nothing we could do about it.

I programmed my Droid to get us to the Millcreek soccer park in Marysville. Found it, no problem. Said it was a 30 minutes trip. We left the house at 945am. I had just over a ¼ tank of gas, so I planned on stopping. Mindy stressed over needing to stop for gas a little too. I asked what our options were. She agreed. We stopped and filled up. No worries! Once we were on the road I asked that she try phoning Jimaken to at least let him know our ETA, which would be about 1015am. He didn’t answer. She left a VM.

We made good time. The directions were spot on. We arrived by 1010am, or five minutes earlier than GPS predicted. We talked about watching from the parked Accord, but that proved to be impossible given the proximity of the parking lot to the field itself. The parking lot was across the street from the soccer field which was down a hill in a little holler. The field was fine, but nowhere near the accommodations of Hilliard or Gahanna. And the weather had only worsened if that’s even possible. It was 42 degrees with

sideways blowing rain. Bella was standing at her daddy’s side with just a light zip fleece on. Once she spotted the two of us she came running over.

We brought her a camp chair, which we ended up not using. Instead, she sat on Mindy’s lap bundled up in the blanket we brought along. But even that was little comfort in the almost wintry conditions. While we suffered with the other parents on the sideline, the kids played their soccer game. It wasn’t long before Jacob’s team was behind 3-0. At the half, we could take it no more and walked back to the car to warm up. Not dressed for the inclement weather, Bella was freezing. Mindy and I were wet and cold too. We sat in the car for a while getting warm. Finally overcome with guilt, Mindy headed back out to watch the rest of the 2^nd half. I sacrificed my desire to see more soccer and volunteered to stay back in the warm car with Bella.

Figuring the game about over, we backed out of our parking spot after about 10-15 more minutes and pulled up alongside the soccer field. The game was over, but Mindy was down yacking with another soccer family. She, Jimaken and Jacob were the last folks off the field. And since Bella came with her daddy, she left with he & Jacob for home. Jimaken was bringing both kids back to our house around 3pm so we could go to Bella’s b-day skating party. Mindy and I headed towards home.

As we neared home we decided that lunch at El Vaquero sounded awfully good. We both agreed the Riverside Dr  location would suit us best. Not entirely sure of the time, but I’m guessing it was near 1145am when we pulled in. Much to our amazement, the place was a wreck, at least on the outside. Going through an external renovation. However, despite looking as if it were recently bombed, they were open for business. We headed in the through the temporary entrance where we were quickly ushered to a table.

The Vaq, more often than not, is crowded and often requires a wait. Not today. We were one of only a handful of patrons. Service was fast and efficient – always is. I woofed down a basket of the complimentary nachos in no time. Mindy ordered enchiladas. I ordered a burrito/enchilada combo. Food was good. Hit the spot. We ate pretty fast and were out of there and on our way home in a jiffy.

A rainy, dreary day, and a belly full of food, I plopped down on the sofa to watch some college football. Mindy, meanwhile, begged off for a formal nap in our bed. She slept for nearly two hours. I slept a little too, but only for about 15 minutes here and there. I got off my rear around 230pm and began to straighten up around the house. Looked like a tornado had been through. We’d be having a houseful of Bella’s friends over before and after the skating party. I wanted our house to look presentable.

Mindy was up a short time later. I asked her to jump in and help. She wasn’t too thrilled with me barking orders being fresh out of bed, but she still jumped in to assist. It took us about half an hour to get the house back in order. I headed for a shower around 315pm. The kids were home around then too. Jim planned to meet us at the skating party a little later.

Mindy left to fill-up the Pilot just before 4pm. Somehow she always seems to disappear at the time when guests are supposed to start showing up, leaving me to do the meet and greet. She knows I hate it. Sure enough, the first kid and parent arrived right after Mindy left. I did my best to struggle through the details. Thankfully, Mindy was back home before any others showed up.

Instead of having parents drop their kids at the skating party, Mindy agreed to be the shuttle service to and fro. We were worried about travel accommodations for as many as ten kids were expected. Chrissy agreed to bring her three. That helped big! We traveled with 8, including Mindy & I.

I knew right where we were going having worked out there in my Time Warner days. However, I’d never been in United Skates of America before. I figured it had to be similar to the old Skateland and it was. Missing was the organ, but added was hip music, a DJ, and a bit more pizzazz and color. Aside from that, pretty much the same thing as it was some 40 years ago.

Mindy and I outfitted ourselves with skates too. I headed out as soon as the kids were all skated up. I negligently wore half sock which caused some rubbing action around the ankle area. Hadn’t been on roller skates since my girls were small when we used to visit the Grove City roller rink once a month with Magdalene.

I bored of the skating quickly. Plus, it got ridiculously crowded in a hurry. I was somewhat entertained by the ‘skate heads’. You know, the guys that obviously do this almost every day. They would dance, bob, and weave in and out of the mostly beginner type skaters showing off their roller prowess. I could see them looking for watchers out the corners of their eyes.

I kept a loose eye on the Buckeye game too. But that was looking hopeless. We were at risk of being shut out for the first time at home since 1982. We got lucky and scored a TD with only seconds left. And because we only allowed 10 points, we still had a chance, albeit a slim one, for an onsides kick recovery and a miracle play or two for the win.

The onside kick should’ve been recovered by the Buckeyes, but like everything else all game long, the break didn’t come our way. We lost 10-7. USofA did a nice job organizing the skate party. They had drinks, pizza, game tokens, decorations, and a hostess to help. We sang happy birthday and then watched Bella open a few gifts. We were welcome to stay until 8pm, but we organized everybody for the trip home at 715pm. By then Jimaken was there. He was helping shuttle kids back to our house since Chrissy had to leave to make dinner out with her hubby.

Jimaken took Jacob, Evan, Jake, and Emily. We took the rest. It was starting to get dark as we arrived home. They sky was partially clearing too. Wahoo! I wasn’t going to hold my breath, but they were promising sunshine on Sunday – chilly but sunny.

Lillian was in charge of Bella’s birthday balloons as we got in and out of the Pilot. Sure enough, as soon as the door was opened at home they went airbourne. Needless to say, Bella wasn’t pleased – cried even. Big Jake went in hot pursuit but to no avail. Don’t think they ever came down.

Jimaken and Jacob soon departed for his place. Jacob was in heaven having his daddy all to himself. Mindy had crafts ready and organized for all the girls as well as Jake and Evan. While they did crafts, I poured myself a CBC IPA and tuned the TV to Saturday night college football. Neighbor Teri came down to drink a beer. Enjoyed her brief company. Didn’t stay long. Girls headed upstairs for a movie and make-up around 830-9pm. They weren’t loud at all. That I appreciated. Shelly came to pick-up GD Kaileigh around 9pm. She couldn't spend the night for having a cheer leading competition the following morning.

After one CBC IPA I cracked open the rocket of Two Brothers Hop Juice double IPA that I bought from Barley’s the night before. It was their last one. It was good, but not as good as I remembered it being. I like my new White Rajah way more.

The football game featured Nebraska at Wisconsin. Back and forth early, but Wisconsin started pulling away even before the half. I headed for bed around 11pm. Mindy was already there. All seven girls, meanwhile, were sleeping in just two beds – their choice. Good night and goodbye rain!

Goodbye to the Month of ME

I was up on time on what was yet another crappy morning weather-wise. What’s more, the weekend forecast wasn’t any better, in fact even worse, at least on Saturday. For the time being it was raining and 54 degrees. Saturday wasn't expected to escape the 40s with clouds, wind and rain. Not an ideal beginning to October, but I suppose in synch with what we’ve been experiencing here in late September.

I enjoyed coffee and internet ahead of meditation, stretching and running. Somewhere in between, I woke Mindy. I’m guessing it was near 615am. Weighing on my mind was the fact that I needed to give Lindsey a ride to work as well as deliver b-day snacks to Bella’s classroom, all this before getting myself to work. I expected Lindsey to find a way to our house ahead of the ride to work so I could at least carry out my normal morning duties without harm.

As usual, I headed out for my run around 630am. I completed the 4.1 miles in damp & dreary conditions. I suppose the nicest thing I can say about the weather was that the wind wasn’t blowing. Back at home I toweled off in the laundry room where I was met with a strong urine-type stench which I tracked to Jacob’s soccer cleats. I told him about it as I sat down at the table for breakfast. Of course he responded with a smart alecky retort.

His timing couldn’t have been worse. I just wasn’t in the mood. For the next couple minutes our morning was filled with dysfunction. I’ll say two things. One, there’s no doubt that I could have handled the whole smelly shoe problem much better. Two, had I responded to my father as he did me, I would’ve been knocked into tomorrow.

The tension eased as Jacob headed up to his room and Mindy headed off to work. Before heading up for a shower I loaded three trays of cupcakes into a Macy’s bag for easier transporting.

I was done with my shower and downstairs by 750a. Lindsey was soon at our door while I was putting the finishing touches on my packed lunch. Because Eiknarf hadn’t yet been walked Lindsey volunteered to do it to save all of us a little time. Bella headed out for the bus stop first (rare). I stopped Jacob just before heading out the door and told him that neither of us handled the shoe thing as well as we should’ve but that there would definitely be some level of discipline coming his way for his not so wise response. Told him Mindy & I would discuss later.

According to Lindsey, Eiknarf took care of her business on their walk. Left her inside as we headed to the bus stop. Lindsey came along too. We met Kenny and the girl there. I joked that Lindsey was going back to elementary school to try over again. After the kids boarded the bus I shared the Jacob shoe encounter with Kenny. A minute or two later,  Lindsey & I headed off to work.

We made really good time around I-270 to

Sawmill Rd

and then east on Snouffer to Cane. Her office is in the Farmer’s building. It was something close to 840am – early for her, but late for me. I still needed to drop Bella’s b-day cupcakes at her school. I made good time getting there too. Arrived around 850am. Jacob & Bella’s bus was one of the early ones. In fact, Jacob was out front of the school with his peeps. The principal was out there too. She allowed me to park in the bus lane as long as I hurried in with the baked goods. I was in the office and back out in less than a minute. Off to work. I didn’t see Bella anywhere.

Arrived on the 6^th floor right at 9am. I would never have guessed I’d make it in that early. My workday was a real stressor from the outset. For starters, I was summoned to an impromptu meeting in one of the posh conference rooms just down the hall. Not good news. Add to that, there was more going on than I could possibly handle. It was crazy all morning long.

I wanted/needed to make a Target run at lunchtime to pick-up a few small items for Bella’s b-day gift bag. I left for Target near 1pm. It was raw and raining on & off, by most accounts an ugly last day of September.

I found a handful of items that would work perfectly in her gift bag. I felt good about them all. Back at the office around 2pm, I jumped right back into the flames. To help ease the stress, I let some Pink Floyd whirl in the background. That helped immensely.

Mindy called as she was leaving school. We missed each other’s calls earlier in the day. We talked about the morning’s shoe incident and came to an agreement on how we should proceed. We agreed to talk more once I got home. She and I had plans to enjoy an evening at Barley’s while the kids spent the night with their dad. It would be our only opportunity for down time for the entire weekend with a 10am soccer game, Bella’s skating party and sleepover on Saturday, and then a family birthday party on Sunday.

Work was crazy until my departure at 545pm. Thought the weekend would never come. As it was, though, I felt conflicted because there were still hot issues dangling out there.

I called Mindy from the Accord. She was at Kohl’s on a planned shopping spree. Figured to be gone for a while but home in time to go to Barley’s. I arrived home around 610pm. It was nice having more than an hour of alone time to unwind after a tumultuous work week. I used the time to listen to some more Pink Floyd and update my blog. It was a near religious experience.

Mindy must’ve gotten home around 720pm. By then I was in pretty good spirits. Almost immediately and without asking, Mindy headed upstairs to change for an evening out. I’m thinking we left for Barley’s around 740pm. We drove the Accord.

During our drive Mindy asked if I’d heard back from my mom about her coming up this weekend. She sent an email Thursday, I think, asking about it. I responded being sure to share that we were having a 10 girl slumber party on Saturday night. Didn’t want her to be surprised. I never got a response.  Mindy was going to call her as we drove but got side tracked.

Good crowd at Barley’s. Not a lot of regulars, but our peeps Ben & Ryan were there. Haven’t hung with then since pre NYC. It was good to see them. Drank a couple Centennials and a White Rajah. Spent some time chatting with Thad & Monica, too.

Somewhat out of character, Mindy didn’t eat a thing all evening long and drank wine, beer, and even did a couple shots (buttery nipples) with Ryan and Ryan’s sister-in-law. She had quite a buzz going when we left for home. We bought Little Bob and his wife Carol a beer in commemoration of Bob’s retirement from the Columbus Public Library.

We arrived home around 11pm. I worried that Mindy would wake Saturday feeling as though she’d been run over by a truck. Good night September, the month of me.

Relax, Don't Do it, When You Want to Go to It

Since I knew I'd be skipping calisthenics, I allowed myself a few extra minutes of precious sleep. I didn't get up until 535am. And what do you know, I could see a few stars overhead. But realize, too, it was by no means clear. Instead, just a rare break amongst almost constant cloud cover.

Skipping sit-ups and push-ups felt unusual, almost sinful. But I know it's better for me and my back/neck in the long run. Before the coffee was ready I checked email and weather. It was cloudy and 54 degrees. Expected a high of 69 with partial clearing skies a possibility. Geesh, you know it's getting bad when they start forecasting a chance of sun! :)

Finally, the coffee alarm sounded. I headed to the kitchen and poured myself a cup the usual way, with caramel vanilla creamer, whipped cream, cinnamon and caramel syrup. Yum-yum! Back at my PC I read almost all the Yahoo headlines, including the depressing news about the almost certain double recession. Ugh!

Come 605am I peeled myself away for meditation. I took another knock-off Aleeve too. Meditation went extremely well. I felt so much better afterwards. It's certainly not magic or a silver bullet,  but it's been an invaluable exercise of the mind for me for the last 6 or 7 years. Near 620am I made and delivered Mindy's coffee. She was most appreciative. After a hug and a smooch I turned off the ceiling fan then headed back downstairs to stretch and prep for a run.

Stretching went well, and was just what the doctor ordered. I was a bit more deliberate and slow working through my usual routine. Come time to run, I slid into a fresh short sleeved wicking shirt (the prior day's was still a tad damp) and then my pullover fleece. I was out the door at 633am.

Once again socked in by cloud cover, I simply shrugged it off and went about my run. Starting to see it more as the norm rather than the exception. I ran the same old 4.1 mile track. But it really never gets old. It's as much a mental thing as it is physical. Sometimes I don't physically see it, if that makes sense. Instead, I see my thoughts. On this run I sorted through several things weighing heavily on my mind. That's just how I roll! I was done before I knew it.

Checked my over seeding for any potential early germinators. There were none. Toweled off, at least partially, with my fleece. I ran up one heck of a sweat. Inside, I toweled off again only this time with a beach towel. Mindy had eggs fryin' on the stove. As soon as Bella came down I quizzed her about the b-day. How many days? Two, well, three officially. She's psyched!

Jacob walked Eiknarf while I enjoyed my eggs, but lucky for her I remembered to save some. Enjoyed fruit too: pineapple, strawberries and giant raspberries. Washed it all down with a tall glass of OJ. Mindy left for school at 730am. There were no special instruction for the kids, I don't believe.

I slid my leftover eggs into Eiknarf's bowl and then headed off for a shower. I dressed in a new pair of black dress slack and an burnt red button up. I looked good, but probably not as good as I look in black or pink. ;) I was downstairs at 755am. The kids played in their rooms until 805am. We headed out together at 810am.

Met Chrissy at the bus stop. Shared that she missed class the night before for having a flat tire when she pulled out of the parking garage. Called AAA. The bus arrived at 815am - right on time. Eiknarf and I walked back home. She didn't do any more business, having recently taking care of both on a walk with Jacob.

I made double sure I had everything I needed for a remote work day then headed off. Once again, I opted for the safe route taking I-270N all the way around. Took 25 minutes exactly and the trip was 25 miles too, so a mile a minute. I needed to be on our weekly staff call at 9am. I hurried to my make shift desk to get  situated. I used my blackberry and bluetooth headset to join the call. My PC takes way too long to boot up, especially when connecting to a foreign network.

Joined just as it was getting started. No Earth shattering info. Let's see, we talked about next Wednesday's symposium agenda, and  I can't recall what else. Just before the call ended,  I chimed in with an escalation update on an issue our team's been pursuing for a couple weeks now.

I prepared for a couple more meetings and joined another conference call ahead of my 1pm monthly presentation. I felt well prepared for that, this my third go around. Even still, I headed to the conference room ten minutes early to get set up. Waiting, waiting, waiting. Had technical difficulties with the conference phone. Had to wait for the customer to get that under control. Had many join via bridge. Only one other person live. They were all chasing down urgent issues. That's the nature of our work. Plus, that's how we want it be - my monthly review being the least of their concerns.

The monthly review lasted about 45 minutes. I was back at my desk ahead of 2pm. Spent most of the afternoon working that same technical issue. Complex.  One of the TAC managers stopped by to ask if his team is coming by much for my help on my on-site day. Honestly, no, not a lot, but some. We both agreed that they should be utilizing my presence more.

I stuck around until about 520pm, or about 20 minutes later than I hoped. It takes a bit longer to get home than it does to get in. I talked with Mindy at some point during my commute. Can't recall what we discussed. Oh, wait, she and Bella were off to Target. Jacob was at soccer practice. I'd be home alone for a little while. She asked if I needed anything from Target. Nope!

Arrived home near 6pm. Sure enough, nobody home but us elves. I unloaded my stuff, including my lunch dishes, and then prepped Thursday's coffee.  Even got my Wednesday blog entry posted before Mindy and Bella got home. I'm thinking it was near 630pm when they finally showed up. By then I was relaxed and at a good place after a very busy day of work and then a little time by my lonesome. It should've been the perfect night.

I'm thinking it was near 745pm when Jacob got home from soccer practice. By then, I was in my relaxation pose, flat on my back with my feet/legs elevated on the Queen Anne chair from the living room floor.  I was awake but asleep - crazy relaxed. I heard the family going about their business but participated only as a witness.  Jacob was hungry. I remember hearing him bitch about at his momma immediately in the door after she asked him to walk Eiknarf, who'd been recently scratching at the door. She reminded him of his resolute to take care of his chores without talking back. She offered that his dinner would be ready upon his return - sloppy joes. From my relaxed perch, it was all kind of humorous, really.

I rose from my meditative slumber around 815-830pm and went to the family room where I tuned into Thursday night college football, which was Southern Florida vs. Pitt. It was very close and back and forth, at least while I watched. I called it a night around 1030 pm. By then, Mindy and the kids had been in bed for at least an hour.

Pretty in Pink

I knew my bedroom clock was running 3+ hours fast, but only figured the ‘plus’ to be about 5 minutes. It turned being about 12 minutes. As a consequence, I was up and downstairs by 520am. I wouldn’t exactly call it clear, but there were a few stars visible, something not so easy to come by through most of September.

I’ve consciously opted not to do push-ups or sit-ups for the next several days after coming to realization that my strengthening exercises may not be helping my achy neck, back and shoulders. I may shelve them for as much as two weeks and then measure the results.

Without exercises to do, I had plenty more free time. I didn’t abuse it, though. I decided I’d use the time for a more thorough meditation, much like the old days. I ended up spending a solid 20 minutes in meditation. That worked well. I felt more centered, at peace, and relaxed afterwards. I delivered coffee to Mindy next. She sounded much better than she did the two morning’s prior.

Back downstairs I readied for my run. It was in the low 50’s so I wore my fleece over top a short sleeved wicking shirt. And I’m happy to report that I could detect daybreak on the horizon, something that’s also been elusive over the last month. I ran the full 4.1 miles and felt good with where my head was at. The run was fulfilling. Returned home feeling great. I took a few minutes to cool down out front while also checking out my freshly planted grass seed. It hasn’t germinated yet, but I didn’t expect it too so soon either. One thing’s for sure, if I was a grass seed, I’d be digging this weather. J

Inside, Mindy was busy at the stove and island making lunches and breakfast. Looked like scrambled eggs were on the menu. My eggs were soon ready. Unless I’m mistaken, Mindy ate only some yogurt. Could it be that she’d done something to the eggs? They were good. Jacob coaxed Eiknarf out for a walk while I ate my eggs. She was hiding just under the edge of the table hoping to get eggs first and foremost. I promised to save her some.

Mindy left at 730am after clarifying that it was a Bella gymnastics night. Wasn’t sure what we’d be having for dinner. As promised, I saved eggs for Eiknarf. There were some leftover in the skillet too. I gave her both. Soon I was off to the shower.

I wore old black Dockers and a pink polo. I like the look. Only real men can pull of pink. Downstairs by 755, I finished packing my lunch. Mindy had already made me a salad, so all I had to do was gather some fruit and cut some cheese. Went fast!

The kids and I headed out at 810am. And while it was blue and sunny overhead, clouds were already looming to our immediate west. Yeah, bummer! As soon as the kids were on the bus Eiknarf and I headed back home. And yes, she took a dump.

I was heading into the office on a Wednesday for one of the few times since late July. I changed my off-site work day to Thursday to facilitate month-end results review. I was settled into my office by 845am. The day got busy in a hurry. Had a whole lot of reactive stuff going on. Things seemed to be clicking, however, and most were resolved surprisingly fast. Fantastic!

I made it a point to leave for lunch and drove to Lowe’s. I was looking for some sort of garage wall mount for Jacob’s new snowboard. I perused all their offerings not real happy with any of them. For one, our garage wall space is at a premium and almost nonexistent. I quickly realized, I’m gonna have to think this one through a little better. The basement may very well be the answer.

Back at the office by 2pm, I got sucked into another round of reactive issues. I did my very best trying to help. For probably the first time in my new role, I could sense some serious tension between myself and a peer. The reactive work kept me busy all afternoon long. I got a call from Ashley late afternoon updating me on her OSU dental appointment. Sounds like several more visits lined up before her root canal and crown are completed. She also shared how her recent supervisory interview went. Sounds excited about it.

I didn’t talk with Mindy all afternoon. Thought I’d call on my way home. I left the office at 540pm. I called home as soon as I was safely on the road. Bella answered. We talked for a minute or two before she shared that she had Jim on the other line. Took me a second to figure out what she meant – Jim, her daddy. I didn’t really need anything, but asked her to have her momma call me back.

I was home around 6pm. By then it was raining again. Oh dear! Mindy was busy finishing up dinner – sloppy Joe’s. I was thinking either chicken enchiladas or tacos. I guess I was wrong. While waiting on dinner I did my usual chores.

I topped my sloppy joe with a pile of cheese, mustard, and red onion. The sloppy joe’s were good but awfully sweet. You might even call it a Gloriaism. It occurred to me then to ask what type if meat I was eating. Mindy asked that I guess. I knew then there must be turkey in it. Yep, 50-50. I enjoyed another garden salad too. I was full after one sloppy joe. Jacob headed out with his airsoft stuff looking for Evan while Bella readied for gymnastics. After dinner clean-up, I went to my PC to play.

Mindy and I agreed that she’d do the drop and I’d do the pick-up. Mindy & Bella left around 645pm. While they were away I updated my blog. Had about four days to post. I edited and posted some pics to boot.

While Bella was at gymnastics and Jacob off playing with his friends, Mindy and I hung quietly at home. Like the evening before, I took a siesta on the family room floor lying flat on my back with my legs propped up on the coffee table. Felt great. Fell asleep for at least 20-30 minutes.

Mindy woke me at 815pm. Time to fetch Bella. Took a minute to wake-up. Headed out a couple minutes later. Took the Accord. Arrived at 825pm. I headed inside to watch Bella do her thing. Grandma Sharon’s daughter Shelly was the instructor. Bella says she’s mean.  She’s always pleasant to me. Hmmm?

Bella and I headed home. I jokingly told her no Wendy’s! She didn’t want it anyway. Told me what she needed was a good night of sleep. That was very grown-up (9) of her.

It was 9pm in the blink of an eye. I spent a little more time on the PC while Mindy headed off to bed. She asked that I come up soon. I was loosely following the two baseball games with meaning on the last night of the regular season. I stayed up until 945pm. Joined Mindy in bed. Good night moonless sky.

Rain Sun Rain

I overslept a little and wasn’t downstairs until 542am. So I’m guessing I was up somewhere near 537am. Not too bad. I could see that it rained again overnight but wasn’t at the time. I was hopeful that it would remain that way at least through my run. I was still a little tired after getting about 2 hours less sleep than I’m used to. You may recall, I was up late tending to a work related matter.

I completed calisthenics with my back and shoulders feeling considerably better after taking two doses of Target brand Aleeve the day and night before. I checked headlines and weather. A good chance of rain throughout the day with the high reaching the mid 60’s. At the time it was 56 degrees. I planned on wearing a fleece pullover atop my shirt.

Just ahead of meditation I sent a status update concerning last night’s work issue. After meditation I woke Mindy with coffee. That was near 615am. She asked that I shut off the ceiling fan as I exited the room. I headed back downstairs where I did a thorough stretch before leaving on a run. It was trash day. Jacob placed our can at the curb the evening before. It was near capacity, which is unusual for us these days.

I ran the full 4.1 miles. It was about 15 degrees cooler than it was on Monday. Felt good though. Our can was emptied by the time I made it back to the house. I drug it around to its usual resting place then went to the deck door seeking entrance. As luck would have it, neither Mindy or Jacob was around to open the door. I might’ve waited about three minutes before giving up and walking around to the front.

Jacob was at the breakfast table by the time I was back inside and Mindy just coming out of the restroom. Bella was still upstairs. When she finally made an appearance I quizzed her on the b-day count down. How many days? FOUR! During breakfast, Mindy reminded us of the day’s after-work/school agenda. Jim was taking Jacob to soccer early, but we’d need to meet them there at the Gahanna soccer field before 630pm. I planned to leave work a little early. Traffic across town is never fun that time of day. Weren’t sure what we’d do about dinner.

Mindy left at her usual time and the kids and I carried on with our routine too. After Jacob walked Eiknarf I fed her some leftover eggs. I also reminded Bella to fill her food bowl. I headed to the shower at 735am.

I dressed in black head-to-toe. Felt good. Was having a horrible hair day, though. Not a lot I could do about it. I moved on. Before heading out to the bus stop, I logged off my laptop and packed it for work. The kids and I headed out at 810am.

We met Chrissy and the girls at the bus stop. Chrissy said that Woody hasn’t been himself and wasn’t eating well, either ever since Molly’s passing. I wondered if it wasn’t more them than him. In a poor attempt at cheering her up, I suggested that at least they could get grass to grow around the base of the deck now. Molly used that area as her personal urinal, and she was one of those dogs with grass killin’ pee.  Chrissy didn’t seem amused. We talked Tuesday evening soccer games, too, ours in Gahanna, theirs in Canal Winchester.

The bus arrived on time. With the kids aboard the bus, Eiknarf and I headed for home, but not before she took a dump out front. Glad I had a bag in tow. To avoid walking across the wet grass in my dress shoes, I left the bag on the front porch, just like I did the morning before. But now with two poop sacks setting there, I knew I needed to properly dispose of them both quickly. So on my way out to the Accord, I walked both bags to the trash can.

I pulled out of the drive near 825am and arrived at the office about 15 minutes later. It didn’t take me that long to get logged on and set for my day. I finished my proactive month end reports first. Glad I did, too. The rest of my day was a reactive versus proactive nightmare. Did find the time to change this week’s customer-site work day from Wednesday to Thursday, however.

Mindy called after school to check on my ability to leave work around 5pm so we could get to Jacob’s soccer game in Gahanna. Seemed doable. I told her I’d try to leave by 510pm. And as things turned out, I was able to leave even earlier. I left at 455pm. It was fairly cool when I exited the building with a mix of sun and clouds. My car said it was 61 degrees.

Called Mindy while in route home. Jacob and Jimaken were just leaving the house for the soccer game. Arrived home around 510pm. Mindy and Bella were getting ready when I got home. I changed out of my work clothes into something comfy, and namely jeans, a t-shirt, and sweatshirt. I planned to wear my casual fleece jacket too. We were all set to go even before 530pm.

Of course it started spitting rain again as we backed out the driveway. It wasn’t a pretty evening. We jumped on eastound 70/670 despite knowing we’d almost certainly run into killer traffic. Aside from doing the I-270 thing, it’s about the only way that made any sense – pretty much a straight line there. Traffic was slow through downtown and then again once on 670 all the way into Gahanna, but at least it kept moving. We were fortunate. I could tell, one little miscue and this route would be a mess.

The soccer field was in east Gahanna, meaning we had to cross town once in town. The park was really nice though, but only one soccer field that I could see. There was a sign up, visible as we pulled in, advising that the fields were closed. Oh no! Despite the signage, both teams were out warming up, and the refs were there, too. Looked like a soccer game was happening after all.

Surprisingly, there were blue skies directly overhead but really dark clouds moving in from the WSW. Looked like heavy rain was a certainty. The only question was how long until it would hit. When the game started, Mindy & Bella set up camp chairs along the sideline. I finished reading about some Pilot features I wasn’t fully aware of prior, like the telescoping steering wheel. Promised Mindy to be out in a minute.

They had my chair set-up and waiting for me. I joined them a few minutes into the game. Like the other two games I’ve attended (they had played three) the game was played mostly at our defensive end, meaning we couldn’t get the ball down to our offensive end to save our lives. Our little goalie was good, but it was just a matter of time given all the scoring chances they were getting. It was 2-0 at the half. Jacob had two decent shots on goal but both narrowly missed going in.

And once again, our kids were getting frustrated with one another and giving each other the dickens. That’s when I knew our goose was cooked. It never did rain. Still not sure how the threatening skies skipped over us.  In the end, Jacob’s team lost 3-0 dropping their overall record to 0-4.

Jacob always waits for his dad, and since Jim’s the coach, he’s always the last one there. By the time the game ended it was pretty much dark. Jacob had his head down as he walked towards the car. Mindy knew what was coming and so did I. And so it began.

Not one positive thing came out of his mouth during our drive home. And once again he blamed everybody else but himself and his dad. Even referred to his team as they, which bothered me. He also picked on Bella profusely. It started raining once we got just east of downtown. Jacob wanted to stop for McDonalds. Mindy threatened not stopping to get him to stop. I’m thinking we were in Grandview by then. J It was getting really hard to take.

We went through the McDonald’s drive-thru at Wilson & I-70, the first time I’d been there in 10 years, I’ll bet. I think Courtney worked there when it first opened. We got food only for the kids. Both Mindy & I planned to have some chicken & noodle leftovers. Sounded good given the rain and chill.

I’ll admit, Jacob was a lot more tolerable once he had some food in his belly, pleasant even. Mindy sent them both for showers as soon as they were done eating. After finishing my noodles and then tidying up the kitchen, I laid flat on my back on the family room floor. I eventually rolled over onto my belly completely face down and fell asleep. Not entirely sure how long I slept but I’m guessing for only about 10 minutes.

Mindy declared it time for bed around 930p. She was really surprised when I agreed and joined her heading up. I think she’d forgotten that I was up late working the night before. I was exhausted. Pitter-patter, pitter-patter. Are we in Oregon?

Playin' Cowboys & Indians

I was up on time and just a tick before the coffee maker kicked into gear. And I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but it was raining again. Early on, at least, it was raining only lightly. The good news was that it was quite warm and almost 70 degrees.

I completed sit-ups and push-ups then spent time on the internet. Saw that the Colts lost their hard fought battle against the Steelers. Woke Mindy near 615am with coffee. Asked if she was going to work. She was coughing all night. She was even though she sounded bad – croupy even.

I completed meditation and a stretch ahead of my run. I wore long running pants but with a short sleeved wicking shirt. Thankfully, the rain was reduced to a mere spit during most of my run. It would pour buckets later. I ran the full 4.1 miles without cause for concern. In the back of my mind I was a tad worried about possible lightning at every turn. It was forecasted but never materialized.

Back at the house, Mindy shared that she placed a beach towel by the door. I walked right past it on my way to fill the front porch watering pail. While thinking about it, I wanted to water both flower pots still in full bloom on the front porch. I toweled off after taking care of the flowers. Thanks dear.

As soon as Bella was downstairs I started the birthday/birthday party count down. She’s very excited about this one (#9) in particular. Six days and counting! Mindy reminded Bella that she put the bday party invitations for her school mates in her book bag and to give them to her teacher. Apparently her teacher was willing to discretely stuff them into the proper homework folders to help avoid certain kids from feeling left out.

Jacob walked Eiknarf during egg time. She always looks sad and confused when Jacob comes a calling with the leash about then. But I made sure to save some for her. She was happy about that. Mindy left at her usual time after reminding Bella repeatedly to bus home with Noah. Jacob wouldn’t be there to remind her. He had a Beacon Ambassadors meeting planned for after school. He would have the pleasure of attending the school board meeting which was being hosted at his school. As I understood it, a lot of fun activities planned too.

The kids and I were ready for the bus stop at 805am. I waited as long as possible due to the moderate but steady rainfall. I headed out with my umbrella. Bella took cover under it too. Jacob did as well initially, but he must’ve gotten uncomfortable with the closeness. Once the neighbors headed out he left himself out in the rain. What a goof ball! Kenny was out with the girls for what seems like the first time this school year, at least while I’ve been on bus duty.

Kenny had the day off and said he hoped to continue power washing if the weather cooperated. It was raining at the time but expected it to stop sometime soon. Kids were on the bus by 815am. Eiknarf and I walked back towards home where she took a dump in the rain. Lucky for me, I had a plastic grocery bag in tow.

I gathered all my gear, secured the home, then headed off to work at 825am. Rained through the entire commute as well as the walk into the building. It was raining hard, too. Deployed my umbrella for the walk from the car to the building.

Dealt with the remnants of an on-call weekend issue first thing in the AM.  My day got a little dicey as the morning progressed. All of the sudden I was feeling overwhelmed with issues needing my urgent attention.  Happily, I was able to get most of them under control quickly leaving me the time to focus my energy on a couple other areas of concern.

I started another Home Depot list but wasn’t planning to head there that afternoon, or for that matter, leave for lunch at all. For one, I had a 1pm conference I needed to join, which only netted me more to-dos.   

After eating my packed lunch my outlook was much improved. Funny how that works. Food is king! Stayed real busy all afternoon - one of my busiest days in recent weeks.

I didn’t talk with Mindy until I was headed home. That was sometime after 530pm. She was busy making burgers for dinner. She wasn’t grilling them, though. I know because I asked. Mindy sounded bad/ill still.

 Jacob wasn’t home. He was at school doing the Beacon Ambassador thing. It would be a busy shuttle night. Jacob needed picked up at school near 8pm and Bella would need a ride to and from gymnastics.

I wasn’t at home long before dinner was on the table – burgers and tater tots. Dinner wasn’t fancy, but very tasty. Mindy and I worked out the shuttle plans. She’d take Bella and then retrieve Jacob. I’d pick-up Bella.

After dinner and clean-up, I took a nap on the living room floor, at first laying flat on my back but then flipping completely over and onto my belly. That actually felt so much better this time. Jacob called around 725pm to alert Mindy that he was finished and ready to be picked up. I woke about the same time he called.

While Mindy headed out after him, I did some work on my blog. They were home before 8pm. I talked with Mindy while Jacob played in his room. I left to fetch Bella at 818pm. It didn’t take long at all. Arrived at DCW at 825pm. Hadn’t seen grandma Sharon in a long time. Gave her a hug. Headed back to gym to catch a few minutes of Bella doing her thing on the trampoline.  

We headed for home by 830pm. As I guessed she might, Bella asked if we could stop at Wendy’s on the drive home. I agreed, but reminded her that she didn’t even finish her dinner earlier. She gave me some excuse about not wanting to be too full for gymnastics. J We stopped at the drive-thru and got her some chicken nuggets and fries.

Jacob was in the shower while Bella ate her snack. Jacob had pizza for dinner at school. I tuned the TV to MNF – Washington vs. Dallas already in progress. It was something like 3-0. Can’t recall who was ahead. Mindy and the kids weren’t up much longer. Mindy cited feeling under the weather and headed for bed shortly after 9pm. She asked that I make sure the kids were in bed by 915pm. They both did a good job of heading up to bed when the time came without being asked.

It had to be just after 930pm when my eyes started getting heavy. Out of the blue my blackberry rang (figures!) I ended up getting pulled into a work related matter until almost midnight. I was really sleepy by the time I headed to bed. I am a creature of habit. Up past 1030pm and I am really draggin’. There were stars visible overhead at the time, but the forecast called for cloudy skies again overnight with a chance of rain, of course.