Pawpaw Pat

HaPpY 8tH bIrThDaY rOcKy!!!!

I woke sometime between 7-730am, brushed my teeth, then quietly slipped out of the bedroom and headed downstairs.  I started a pot of coffee then took a peek out back. The windows were once again completely covered with dew eliminating any kind of view of the weather.  I could tell that it was sunny, however.

After whipping out 55 sit-ups I checked the weather online. It was 76 degrees under mostly clear skies. Expecting the high once again to reach into the low 90s with high humidity and a chance of thunder storms. Just before the coffee finished brewing I completed 55 push-ups. I spent at least an hour enjoying coffee, writing in my blog, and playing around online.

Just after 9am I headed out back for a walk around the yard. It was quite lovely but incredibly humid. I had my camera along so I could photograph some summer blooms, but the humidity fogged over my lens rendering the camera temporarily useless. After spending ten minutes walking around the yard, I headed inside where I prepared and left for a run.

I ran the usual weekend route running a total of three miles. The sun was already heating things up and I was dripping in sweat head to toe by the time I made it back home. By then, it was somewhere close to 10am. I saw our bedroom door was opened so I guessed that Mindy was up and awake. She was out on the deck drinking coffee in the sunshine.

I poured some OJ then joined her. She commented that she didn’t feel all that great, and at the time wasn’t entirely sure she’d be going to yoga. However, as the morning progressed she decided to go. I didn’t have a whole lot planned but shared that I would likely spend some time in the flower beds pulling weeds and then fertilizing all our flowers with Miracle Grow. They’re all due for a shot.

Mindy reminded me that at some point we needed to shop for Rocky’s birthday present. Jimaken was set to pick-up the kids around noon,  and he called near 1045am to ask Mindy to make sure they packed swimming gear. Sounded like he was taking them to the Jazz & Rib Fest downtown along the Scioto Mile park. Offered to come get ‘em early too, but Mindy stomped on that. Kids weren’t fully up or ready.

Just before Mindy left for yoga, must of been around 1130am, I took Bella out to pick her first ripe cucumber. She was stoked. As soon as Mindy left I headed out to work in the front flower beds. Said she’d be back around 130pm. The kids, meanwhile, were still hanging out in their bedrooms. I was dripping with sweat as I pulled weeds and trimmed the dead flowers from the purple salvia.  Jimaken showed up to get the kids around noon. He had his pal Pez with him, and he had a young boy who I presumed his son in tow. They headed inside while I toiled in the yard.

They must’ve hung out inside for a good 20 minutes before reemerging with Jacob and Bella. Pez made some comment about heading inside before I’d melt. I shared how much I enjoyed the summery weather. One surely has to tire of hearing people complain of the heat. Lord, we know the same folks will be complaining about the cold and snow six months from now.

They were soon gone. After they departed I worked my way around back where I cut the dead flowers from the geranium baskets hanging on the deck before hitting all the deck pots and baskets with Miracle Grow. It was already 1pm when I headed inside to appreciate the AC.

I could just as easily have cut the lawn, but I didn’t have the energy to spend two more hours out in the hot humid sunshine. Instead, I played on the internet, updating my blog and uploading pictures from the past couple weeks. Mindy was home around 130pm. She talked with Chrissy about combining Rocky’s & Jake's birthday celebration on Sunday. We did the same thing last summer.

Mindy kept after me about going shopping for Rocky’s b-day gift. She showered around 3pm, and me about a half hour later. We had a couple ideas of what we might get him, but at the same time had some concerns with each. In fact, when we left for the Hilliard-Rome Rd Target we still weren’t entirely sure what we’d get him.

We drove the Accord and parked far away from everyone else. Looks like they’re finally widening

Hilliard-Rome Rd

around Target, Wal-Mart and Meijer, a project that’s 10 years overdue. At least it's getting done. In Target, we picked out a couple birthday cards first, then head around the perimeter of the store. We picked up some of Rocky’s favorite snacks and drink to put in his gift bag (mini-muffins and a twelve pack of orange soda). I guess you could say I’ve been influenced by my Grandma Wright’s b-day antics. She used to do that for us, though on a smaller scale.

As we passed the seasonal department currently outfitted for back-to-school, Mindy turned overtly away not wanting to even begin to consider summer’s demise and her imminent return to work. Too funny! As she moved on I peeled off into the car supplies aisle wanting to pick-up a new shami as well as a folding shade for my windshield. I ended up getting two, one for the Accord and one for the Pilot. I also picked up a micro- fiber carwash mit.

 I met Mindy in the toys/movie department. By then we had a number of items in our cart. Still not entirely sure what to get Rocky, Mindy suggested a Nintendo DS, something we know he really likes, but worry about it getting lost ,stolen, or even worse, traded away. While looking over the electronic games options, we noticed an employee removing items from our cart around the corner. I went to ask what she was doing. She embarrassingly shared that she thought it was a cart full of departmental returns.

We opted to get Rocky the DS along with a Mario DS game cartridge and a real nice carrying case. Combined, all those items were nearly $140. I paid for the game system and accessories in the electronics department. We looked at a few other items as we made our way around the rest of the store, but miraculously we didn’t buy anything else. Mindy paid for the rest of the carts contents.

At the car, Mindy asked where to next. Home, I shared. On the drive home, Mindy called Pat Shultz to see what their plans were for dinner and then after. We missed them Friday night after both of us fell asleep so early. They were swimming at sister-in-law Lori’s. Invited us over. We declined, but discussed meeting up some time after dinner, their place or possibly ours.

At home, we carried everything inside and then I headed out to try the new windshield shade in the Accord. Couldn’t get it to work/fit. Tried three or four times. I gave up in frustration. Headed inside where I looked over the wrapper and learned that we needed a bigger size for both the Accord and Pilot. We’d have to take both back. Mindy said she’d do that another time.

I spent a little more time updating my blog through Thursday. I think that Mindy walked down and talked with Chrissy again. When she got back we nailed down our dinner plans. Decided we’d visit and eat at the bar at the Columbus Fish Market. I offered the Buckeye Hall of Fame Café as an alternative. She liked the sound of the Fish Market.

I’m thinking we left for the Fish Market around 630pm. Got there cutting across

5^th avenue

through Grandview. I dropped Mindy at the door and went to park. Ran into a co-worker who was just leaving when I pulled in to park. Met his wife and talked for a minute or two. Headed inside where Mindy was already sitting at the bar. Matt was our bartender/server, though our friend Janie was there too, but just going off shift.

I made some small talk with Janie asking how her love life was going with the new boyfriend she went on about last time we were in (I think it was around Memorial Day weekend). She shared that she was ending it tomorrow. Said something about him being too narcissistic and how she’s almost 30 and needs to find the right guy fast.  Too bad. She did nothing but gush about the guy last time. Relationships are so fragile. And while her shift was over, she stuck around and bellied up at the bar next to a threesome of men. If you asked me it was an unbecoming move – desperate looking even.

Matt was very attentive. Served me a CBC IPA. In their Hop Odyssey tower they had the CBC Summer Teeth offering, which is not a fave of mine. We settled on a couple appetizers, barbequed bacon wrapped shrimp and then some muscles. Thought we might share a dinner entrée later, too.

The shrimp and muscles were quite good. Mindy suggested we deshell all the muscles first, and then eat them like soup. Good call. Worked out well. The bar filled up fast. Soon there was standing room only. We made conversation with the guy and two girls next to us. He was a chiropractor from Pittsburgh in town for a convention. The two young woman were assistants of his. We talked with them through the rest of our visit and dinner. Nice folks.

We eventually decided to follow through on the entrée and went with the special shrimp and scallops. They brought us the salad split into two portions (nice). Our main entrée didn’t arrive even after about 30 minutes of waiting. Finally, Mindy asked Matt about it. He was ashamed and shared that they’d be comping our entrée. The manager brought it 5 minutes later and apologized again. It was good, but not out-of-this-world good like some of their dishes.

All totaled, I drank three CBC IPAs with dinner. Mindy had one or two glasses of wine. She agreed to get the check. After deducting our entrée, it was only $38 before tip. Great value!

Mindy drove us home. It was dark when we arrived. Mindy asked if we should call Pat & Lisa. I suggested we simply walk over. I could see their deck mood lighting from our yard. That meant they were up. She agreed. She poured a glass of wine and I grabbed a few refrigerated beers and walked over taking Eiknarf along too.

Turns out, Lisa was just getting ready to head up to bed when Pat spotted us walking across the yard. He called for her to return and join us. She did. Good thing. Every time we visit seems Lisa is in bed. We joked that she hurries off when she sees us coming. Their youngest, Alaina joined us too.

As we often do, we made political small talk. Among other things, Pat shared his perspective on the budget crisis. I asked who he wanted to be our next president. Can’t recall his/her name now. But think it’s a congressman from Wisconsin - republican of course.

We hung out for a couple hours. Asked Lisa about her new job. Seems to like it a lot. Pat & Lisa eventually shared that they’re going to be grandparents. That’s great news! Asked how Jake’s liking his new gig at Time Warner. Lovin' it.

We hung out until after midnight. Mindy was yawning and suggested it time for us to leave. Lisa was tired too. We walked home this time taking the sidewalk versus cutting through the yards. We headed straight to bed. Good night moon.

See Ya in an Hour or so, Carmella

Happy 50th Brother Tommy!

After oversleeping on Thursday, I'm happy to report that I was up on time on Friday morning. Falling asleep around 830pm the night before didn't hurt at all. I got about 9 hours of sleep. Not sure why I was so tired. The heat?

I started coffee before cranking out sit-ups. It felt good to get through my exercise regimen. In between, I checked the weather and headlines. Supposed to be another hot & sunny summer day with the high temp once again reaching well into the 90s. At the time, it was 81 degrees, the first time I can recall it not dipping below 80 overnight.

 I enjoyed some coffee while sitting in front of my PC reading the Daily OM. I read some of Glenn's recent goings on, too I don't typically do that during my morning routine because too easily time can get away from me. Friday was no exception. It was 612am when I checked the time. Yikes! I had to move on.

Collectively, I spent about 20 minutes meditating and stretching, which is perhaps the best use of 20 minutes I can think of.  Felt terrific and in tune. I made sure to lube up well with Vaseline to eliminate the possibility of chaffing during my run. I headed out the door in just a pair of shorts between 635-640am.

The sun was just making its way above the houses on the horizon. It was already ridiculously soupy. In fact, it was 81 degrees with 90% humidity. I was dripping with sweat from head to toe in a hurry.  I wasn't over heating though, just warm.

I ran the full 4.1 miles without any problems and was back at home toweling off by 719am. I made a spinach and cheese omelet that I enjoyed with a big glass of diluted OJ along with some assorted fruit. Breakfast was good. At 740am I headed upstairs to wake Mindy and shower. She asked that I make sure she was up at shower time. When I entered the room she was lying in bed awake. I sat her coffee on the night stand then headed in to shower.

The morning plan called for me to meet Mindy and the kids at the Fletcher cemetery in Springfield for her Aunt Teet's graveside funeral. Mindy left printed directions to the cemetery on my computer desk. I'd no sooner be getting settled in at work when I'd be turning around and heading out again at 930am.  But that's the way I wanted to handle it. That way, I figured,  my day would be much better managed.

I was ready to go perhaps even a few minutes ahead of schedule. Mindy asked if I cared to spend some time on the deck. Are you kidding? I shared how warm and soupy it was.  She had no idea.  I didn't want to work up a lather in my work/funeral attire. We enjoyed a little more coffee in the comforts of the AC before I said goodbye then headed off to work.

It was a pleasurable drive into the office. I was there by 825am. I had just an hour to get settled and then crank out a handful of to-do's before I'd need to leave again. I was very focused on what I wanted to accomplish, and did just that. Felt good about the few big rocks I tackled before turning my attention to Aunt Teet's funeral.  Before leaving for the funeral, I sent brother Tommy an email wishing him a happy 50th b-day. Around 920am, I set my out-of-office to read that I was away but available via blackberry if needed. I left at 928am.

I took I-270 south to I-70 west. Springfield is about 30 miles west of CMH. I exited 70 onto Rt 40, or the Buck Creek exit. The turn for the cemetery was quick, not even a half mile after the exit. I missed the turn onto Center St the first time and had to turn around. The directions were inaccurate after that. Said to turn right off Center St onto Plattsburg, but Plattsburg only went to the left. Trusting the directions I stayed true and remained on what I assumed was still Center St thinking I would find Plattsburg to the right up ahead (a jog). After making my way to the railroad tracks about two miles further, I decided I 'd better turn around and try making that left after all. Oh boy! By the way, the area was very rural.

I headed back to the north and took the left (now right) on Plattsburg. I took that for about 4 or 5 miles before I decided I'd better call Mindy to make sure she didn't get lost too. She answered quickly but shared that she was already at the cemetery. I didn't like her wording at all, which went something like this: "where you went wrong was when you made the left on Plattsburg. You were supposed to keep going straight". No, the directions clearly said to turn right on Plattsburg. There was no right turn. Well, as it turned out, I was going the right way after all. Center St turns into Plattsburg. I got straightened out and found the cemetery five minutes later about another mile past those railroad tracks I found earlier.

Fletcher Cemetery is rather small - quaint even.  Towards the very back, I spotted a gathering under a tent, the only gathering nearby. That had to be it. I then spotted the Pilot. Yep, that was it. I walked up with another group that had just arrived. I introduced myself to them.

Mindy quickly greeted me and then introduced me to her cousin Shelly, Aunt Teet's daughter, whom I've never met. She introduced me to Shelly's son, Dane too. I then greeted b-in-law Craig, the only other person I knew in attendance. Mindy shared how the others (Larry, Jodi, Gloria, Todd and Julie), who were all riding together, were lost too. She called them via cell to help guide them in. Turned out, they were further off course than I was. Her tone wasn't a very pleasant one while giving directions. In fact, many of those already gathered under the tent chuckled at her curt instructions.

Already 10 minutes behind schedule, Shelly declared it time to get started for the sake of those with time constraints. Made sense.  The eulogy and funeral was brief. The others pulled up just as the pastor was telling a closing story, "See ya in an hour". It goes without saying, it was painfully hot and sticky. Felt like a 100 degrees in the sunshine.

After the funeral, the plan was to make our way to Shelly's house and spend some time together before going our separate ways. Wasn't sure where that was, but Mindy said she thought she knew the way. I remembered Mindy saying their house was close to the cemetery. I checked out a few old tombstones before exiting the cemetery. Some dated back to the mid 1800s (births mid to late 1700s). Cool!

Mindy lead a pack of us back towards Rt 40 and then west again towards Buck Creek, where I've been before with the boat. In fact, got the only ticket I've ever received while boating there back in circa 1992 for making white water in a no-wake zone. Officer reminded me of John Candy. I let him know it too. :)

The drive to Shelly's house was a winding drive. I was certain that Mindy was lost, but she knew the way and got us there after about 15 minutes of driving on the back side of Buck Creek. I didn't realize it until we arrived that Shelly's house sits on her mom's property (Aunt Teet). Beautiful piece of land, too -a golf course right behind them, and lots of gorgeous shade trees overhead.

As we got comfortable at Shelly's, I learned that she and her late husband built the house themselves. They did a real nice job. Built halfway into the ground. We spent about an hour visiting and eating. Shelly's fiancée ordered pizza. We brought a veggie tray and drinks. I wasn't hungry. I nibbled on some veggies and fruit, but that's it.

I planned to be back at the office by 1pm and prepared to depart at 1230pm. Craig left just before me, returning to work too, I assumed. After saying goodbye, Mindy walked me to my car. We toured the yard she had such fond memories of as a child. Gloria came out too. Showed me a maple tree she and her late husband, Dick (Mindy's dad) transplanted from their flower bed to Teet's yard. The tree is massive and towering providing lots of shade over Teet's old house. I took a photo of Gloria standing near it.

I left my keys in Mindy's purse, which was still in the house. Mindy went back in to retrieve them for me. Once in my car I programmed my Droid's GPS to help navigate back to Hilliard. Much to my surprise, it suggested going north, or the opposite of the way we came in. I trusted it and headed north. Turned out being a good move. Not even a quarter mile up the road was rt 334 east which connected with Rt 4 north to rt 29 east through Mechanicsburg. I am very familiar with that drive having used it to get to Indian Springs golf course a handful of times.

It took quite a bit longer to get back to work than I expected. Didn't arrive at the office until 130pm, but the drive was efficient and largely carefree. Hardly saw another car. I quickly got settled in and started tackling the few issues that cropped up while I was gone. I didn't mention it earlier, but I helped drive a couple issues while at the funeral and followed up a couple times while at Shelly's. I was discrete.

Mindy phoned around 2pm to make sure I got back to work. She and the kids were just leaving. Planned to stop at Lake Choctaw to drop-off Tara and Doug's boat keys she's been toting around for two weeks. I stayed busy for the remainder of the afternoon closing out 4 or 5 lingering to-do list tasks. Glad I returned to work and got all that done.

I spent the last hour of the day making flight and lodging arrangements for a possible two week stint in NYC coming up in early August. I'm excited about the trip, although I'll be working an awful lot of hours. Looks like I'll be staying in midtown Manhattan at a really nice hotel that's close to central park, the theatre district and Rockefeller plaza.

Talked with my boss and a peer as the day wound down. Left the office for home at 540pm. Avoided an incoming call from Mindy as I pulled into the Hilliard-Cemetery Kroger lot to fetch her some roses. I just figured if she wasn't going to buy me some, I'd be tall and go ahead and get her some. I was rewarded with a sale. Two dozen for $10. Wow, now that's a great deal! Occurred to me that I hadn't stopped in Kroger for flowers in a long time.

Called Mindy on my drive home from Kroger. By then it was already 10 till 6pm. She shared a little more about her afternoon with Shelly and family and How her Aunt Teet's mom's maiden name was Wright - Mary L. Wright I do believe.  I guess Gloria insisted she's shared that with us numerous times past, but Mindy says not. Hmmm? Related? Anybody's guess. On the other hand Gloria has more than once insisted that she may very well be related to my ex Kelly's father, Al.

I shared details surrounding my NYC trip. Mindy's thinking of joining me for a weekend in Manhattan. We'll have to see. Could be fun, though I'll be working god awful hours.

At home I presented Mindy with the roses. She immediately prepped them in a large vase. Look nice. We discussed our evening plans which included a trip to Barley's, one in which the kids, especially Jacob, were stoked about. I relaxed for a little while before we left spending some time online checking email and reading about the NFL labor dispute that continues.

We left for Barley's around 650pm in the Accord, Bella's first such ride. Jacob's first ride was from the cemetery to Shelly's earlier that same day. We arrived to a fairly packed lot but there were still a few spaces available. I opted, instead, to protect the Accord best I could by parking in the wide open adjacent lot in an end space.

As usual, Mindy greeted her peeps who sit at the table just outside the main entrance door. I waved and said hello, but headed inside to the AC with Jacob. I bellied up to the sparsely populated bar where I was immediately greeted by Katy & April, who laughed and joked about last Friday's antics - the singing and all. April said it was too much fun. Seems only Mindy didn't think so. I ordered a yummy Belgian IPA and sat at the bar to finish it. Mindy and the kids grabbed the first bar area booth served by our friend Sarah.

Bella briefly  joined me at the bar and asked me to come to the table. I'd only been there maybe ten minutes talking with Steve Wonn, but not wanting to disappoint, I joined the family in the booth where we eventually enjoyed some food.

I ordered nothing specifically for myself. Instead, I ate some of the smothered fries Mindy ordered for everyone.  Jacob and Bella both ordered chicken tenders, though Jacob got the adult portion with gates of hell sauce on the side. Mindy ordered the smoked half chicken dinner - think it was the lower half -   with a side salad. :)  I knew early on that I wasn't going to be a party animal that particular Friday night. I was feeling sleepy after just one beer, though did find the energy to enjoy a 2nd Belgian IPA.

We didn't stay too late at all. Thinking we left for home by 830pm. I picked up the tab after Mindy picked up Thursday's. I drove us home, too. Had Mindy snap a photo of the sun setting over I-70 west. Gorgeous. Missed the best shot, however.

Wasn't up too long. Ended up falling asleep on the living room floor.  Mindy wasn't up much longer than me. I remember hearing her say she was heading to bed. At the time, both kids were in the family room watching TV. I joined Mindy in bed around 930pm. She was reading a magazine or book. I was right back asleep in no time. Good night Carmella. We'll se ya in an hour or so.

So Hot the Heat Ate the Humidity (2 degrees cooler than Hell)

I was back on track and up at my regular time. It was so humid outside that I couldn’t see out any of the windows. I hit the go button on the coffee maker. All of sudden Bella was at my side. Said she couldn’t sleep and had been up most of the night. I encouraged her to go jump in bed with her momma. Next thing I knew she was gone. I guess she took my advice.

Completed sit-ups, then after a little time online where I checked the weather and headlines, I completed push-ups. It was gonna be another hot day with a high temp of 99 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Looking ahead, there’s not a big drop off in sight, either.

By 605am I was engaged in meditation and ten minutes later stretching. Meditation went particularly well. At 635am I headed out the door for my run.  It was 76 degrees and plenty humid – around 85%.

During the run my thoughts turned to three recent deaths in our world, those being Steve Sines, then Lainie, and lastly, Mindy’s Aunt Teet.  As we age I guess it becomes a more common event. Still, it makes one consider life, where we’re at and what we’ve done and/or plan to do.

I felt good and ran the full 4.1 mile track. I was very sweaty but strong. Running at 630am sure beats the hell out of 1pm in the afternoon like I used to do.  At home I started an omelet and organized a lunch. Mindy graciously prepped another salad the night before, which had become a common thing.

My omelet was a lazy mans version, one that I mixed while already in the pan. I topped it with Colby jack cheese. We were out of spinach, but happily, Mindy planned to grocery later in the day. I chased down my omelet with a glass of diluted OJ. I’ve been topping it off with cold water of late. I think I like it better thinned out.

Off to the shower. Yep, Bella was sound asleep in my spot in the bed. Mindy woke when I sat her coffee down. Then after my shower she shared that she was gonna stay in bed. I didn’t have a lot of time anyway. Said good bye and headed downstairs where I quickly grabbed my stuff and left for work.

Lovely drive into the office.  I got so busy that I lost track of time. The couple times I glanced at the time I was startled to find the time moving almost too swiftly. That’s when you know you’re busy and you like your job, when time goes too fast. I was very productive though didn’t get to half the stuff on my list.  However, I did get to the ‘big rocks’ – the really important stuff.

The day was gone before I knew it. Didn’t hear a peep form Mindy all day. That’s rare. She usually calls at least once. I left the office at 505pm, the earliest I’ve gotten away in days. This was date night, so I made extra effort to get out early. It was really hot,but surprisngly not too humid at all. My guess was that the extreme heat ate teh humidity. I don't know.

I called Mindy from the Handsfree Bluetooth feature. We talked briefly while she was getting ready for our date. She needed to go to finish her hair, I believe.

The house was quiet, clean and neat, just like I like it. Mindy was doing some thing in the kitchen. During my drive home we had already established our dinner venue, CBC. Haven 't been there since the week I was on vacation in early June while the kids were in the Outer Banks.

We left shortly after I got home, and drove the Accord. Traffic wasn't an issue at all. Made good time. Unlike our past few visits, the lot wasn't chalked full. I picked a spot that guarded one side of my car, which is always a preference.

Immediately inside the door we encountered Stella and her little girl, Olivia. Both are very attractive. Olivia has 50% Latino blood, and you can really tell it. They were just leaving and in only for a brief visit. Before moving much further, we ran into Tiffany (Willis) Dollins, a former student who works for the CMH Zoo. As Mindy likes to put it, she's the hands that hand Jack Hannah the zoo animals whenever he makes a TV appearance. She is cute - perhaps a little chunky. Lots of very cute 20 somethings in her click, too.

We eventually made our way around the bar to two open stools at a corner by John the long haired dude that's always there at happy hour and the brewer dude. Can't recall his name.

Jamie was working bar and asked if I wanted the Hop Odyssey, which was a Rye IPA. Sure thing! Mindy ordered a glass of wine. The Rye IPA was good, but not that strong, or even that hoppy. I enjoyed it for what it was. Uncharacteristically, we ordered food even before my first beer was gone. I ordered wings while Mindy ordered the salmon dinner entree.

My wings arrived well before Mindy's salmon. Jamie brought us two plates of wings. Said the second plate was on her, and one we could take home should we want to. The wings were good and really hit the spot.  I was very hungry having eaten only vegetables, cheese and fruit during the day.

Talked with Jennifer, the restaurant GM. Her stepdad owns both CBC and Milestone 229. Said her dad's been going crazy at 229. She's getting married next Saturday July 30th to her long time partner. She's very attractive, by the way, and also very sweet.

I ordered a 2nd beer, a regular CBC IPA. I noticed two cute lesbians at the end of the bar. It was the pair we met there a couple years ago and then later ran into them at MRM. We joked then that we were their stalkers. They came down to chat with us. We finally learned their names, Emily & Kiki, though Kiki isn't her real name. Neither Mindy or I could remember her real name. We talked with them for about 30 minutes while they were waiting on a table or stools at the bar, which ever opened first.

It was after 730pm and we needed to be home to intercept the kids by 8pm. Mindy picked up the check and we exited for home. On our way out I asked Tiffany if I could get a picture of she and Mindy together. She was more than game. They hugged and I snapped.  One of Tiffany's friends burst into laughter, but only later shared why. She mistakenly thought that Mindy must've recognized her from TV commercials and asked to have her photo taken with her. That got a chuckle out of everyone.

We arrived home at 10 minutes till 8. The kids weren't yet there. We walked down to visit with the neighbors briefly. The blinds were all drawn. We guessed them not home but knocked at the back door anyway. Mindy turned the knob and the door opened. She hollered in. Nothing. Great,  I said. You just set off their security system. Mindy realized what she had done and headed in to disable it. She knows their code. She hollered out a few seconds later that Kenny was indeed home but just finishing a shower.

Somehow our brief conversation got on the topic of erotic toys. Apparently Chrissy's just broke. Kenny was planning a run to the adult store to get three new ones. One for Chrissy, Mindy, and now neighbor Teri. Mindy left hers in the night stand at NMB. Too funny!

 We headed back home and weren't settled long before the kids arrived. Jacob was excited that we brought him home wings. He was gonna have them right away but then changed his mind and instead headed out to for some last minute play time. Mindy asked that they be in by 9pm.

While the kids played I updated my blog. Most entries got published unedited, which is always dangerous given how fast I write (lots of mistakes). But in the end, who cares?

After spending about an hour on my blog I ventured to the family room. By then the kids were in and ready for bed. I couldn't find diddly on TV. I tuned to a rerun of Fraser but watched only passively for maybe 15 minutes. Mindy was beckoning from the railing. I joined her in bed just ahead of 1030pm. Good night Eddie.

Quarks & Bosons

I slept about as good as one could hope. Don’t think I woke even one through the entire night. The only downside was that I didn’t wake for work until 620am. Oops! I haven’t overslept like that in forever. Holy smoke!

I moved with a little more urgency, but wasn’t in panic mode by any means. I’d simply have to be creative while carrying out the entirety of my morning routine. Once downstairs, I hit the go button on the coffee maker then started sit-ups. I always need a few minutes before starting push-ups, so I still got online and quickly checked the weather, email, and headlines.

Expecting a high near 95 under sunny skies. Still calling for 99 on Thursday, by the way. Checked the Reds final. They lost 2-0. Slackers! Headed to the family room where I did 55 push-ups just ahead of pouring some coffee. I sucked down my coffee then completed a brief but fulfilling meditation and then a full stretching regimen.

It was just after 7am when I set out on my run. The biggest difference between today and yesterday was that yesterday’s delay was weather related. Today was all on me. Once again, I trimmed my run to only three miles in an effort to regain some of the time lost to oversleeping. It was an enjoyable yet soggy run. And it’s not that it was too hot, but instead, crazy humid.

I was back at the house by 730am. I quickly pulled together my lunch and started some eggs. Landon was up and joined me downstairs. Said he couldn’t sleep any longer. Wanted to play Wii. I felt bad because everything he asked and wanted to do was a “no”. The list included Wii, playing guitar, and spinning on my computer chair. I offered cartoons and breakfast. He wanted neither. I eventually agreed to spin him in my computer chair as long as he was quiet. He held up his end of the bargain.

Including woofing down my food, all of that took 20 minutes. While prepping Mindy’s coffee for delivery, Landon asked me to spray some whipped cream on his finger. It’s something Bella started and now all the G kids like to do it too. Sure, why not.

I delivered Mindy’s coffee and then tried to encourage Landon to hop in bed with her. Mindy tried coaxing him in too. At his core, he’s a very shy boy and hung in the hallway instead.

I was showered and dressed by 810am. I didn’t have a lot of time to chill before leaving but managed to get myself back on track. Mindy got up and came downstairs before I left. By then Landon asked for scrambled eggs. Mindy was just starting to make them as I was leaving for work.

Mindy’s plans included taking the boys home and then joining nephew Joe for lunch and possibly a trip to Zoombezi Bay. I took the stuff I needed to get permanent plates for the Accord. The memorandum title arrived in the mail the day before.

I arrived at work just after 830am. It was a gorgeous morning but I could feel the heat and humidity coming on even at that hour.

Wednesday turned out being a great workday. I felt in control all day long. I was very busy but for the most part managed to stay on top of my daily to-do list tasks. In other words, not a lot of unforeseen matters crossed my plate. And for the first time all week, I was able to get away for lunch. I left around 115pm and headed to the BMV location in Hilliard, which is only a mile or two from the office and in the same center as the Kroger.

I half expected an unbelievably long line, but that wasn’t the case. In fact, there were more people working the counter than I’ve ever seen, all totaled, maybe 6 or 7 clerks. I was next in line. Mary was the clerk helping me. She was very knowledgeable and quick with my task. I let her know that I was hoping to get vanity (custom) plates if at all possible. She asked if I checked the availability online. Yes, I had done my homework. She then asked what specifically I wanted on the plate. I gave her the specifics for which she confirmed was indeed available. She then asked if I wanted to renew through my DOB 2012. Yes, otherwise I’d be back in a month.

I noticed that Mary’s name badge looked just like a license plate. I joked that I hoped she didn’t’ have to pay $50 for a vanity name tag like me. She had me fully processed quickly. She gave me a copy of my new vanity plate to use until the ‘real’ plates arrive in the mail. I started to exit the building then returned to ask whether I needed to remove the 30 day tags now. Mary said not.

Not wanting to leave myself a target for being pulled over, I knew then that I wouldn’t be sporting the temp plate in my rear window as she advised I do until my 30 day tags expire. Hopefully, I’ll have my new plates before the 30 day tags expire.

I headed back to the office by 2pm. The first thing I did was grab my packed lunch from the fridge. I enjoyed my lunch while digging back into the day’s work.  I spent the afternoon compiling data for a presentation I’ll be doing next week, and then I spruced up some graphs for my monthly report.

My boss sent an email telling me to take the time I needed for Mindy’s aunt’s funeral. That was nice. That, by the way, takes place on Friday. I left the office at 545pm, the earliest I’ve managed to get away all week.

I called Mindy from the car on my drive home. She shared how crazy her day was. Sounded busy, though the second half was spent at Zoombezi Bay.  I was surprised when she shared that they left after a hellish rain storm. I had no idea that it even threatened rain. It was sunny and hot when I was out at lunch, and then again when I left work. Said it rained at home, too, as made apparent by the residuals on the deck.

Dinner would be leftovers. Mindy pulled out enough stuff to cover the entire island counter top. I opted for leftover pizza, but there was chicken, hot dogs, salad, and other assorted offerings, including restaurant leftovers. Mindy graciously managed clean-up, though that was a simple task. We used paper plates. I took a brief break on the sofa playing with Jacob and Bella. As usual, Jacob was playing a little too rough. He eventually stopped.

The kids headed out to play with the neighbors when they saw that they were finally back from the pool. I headed to my PC to work on my neglected blog. A few minutes later Mindy asked me to join her walking Eiknarf. We walked down past the O’Connell’s where the kids were playing. We encountered all of them out front with both puppies, Shamrock & Chester following right behind. Very cute, but also worrisome. Granted, their so small that they’re almost turtle slow, but I feared they could dart out in the road and that would be that. The kids seemed unphased with my concern.

We turned around after Eiknarf peed. We encountered Kenny out front of his house and chatted only briefly. Said he was taking the kids to BW3s for dinner. Mindy & I headed back to the house. I did some more writing for my blog catching up through Monday. Sadly though, I haven’t had time to publish for about 11 days. Yikes! Feeling good that I was nearly caught up, I poured myself a Belgian IPA and headed out on the deck to water flowers.

Mindy joined me on the deck while I doused everything. Spent about 25-30 minutes watering. Mindy wanted to hang outside longer, but I was eager to get back in the AC. It was already after 9pm. Both kids were back from the neighbors. I tuned the TV to the Science Channel, Through the Worm Hole with Morgan Freeman. This particular episode was about quantum physics. Mindy and the kids headed to bed around 930pm. I stayed up to watch the whole thing. Love that stuff! I fell asleep after the first episode. There was a 2^nd one that started at 10pm, but I can’t even recall what it was about having fallen asleep right away. I woke at 1027pm and headed for bed. Good night bosons.

Late Rainy Start

I had a hard time falling asleep the night before worrying about work stuff. I got up around 1130pm and played around on the PC for about an hour in an attempt to create a mind diversion and at the same time bring on the sleepies. It worked fairly well. I over slept by 15 or 20 minutes. Not a big deal, though. Knew I could make it up with a few tweaks here and there. I did my best to peer outdoors but all I could see was the dew covering the windows, a clear indication that it was mighty steamy outside. On closer inspection, it was cloudy. I could hear a few rumbles of thunder. I completed calisthenics then checked the weather forecast and radar.

There was another bout of strong storms moving in again from the north/northwest. A pattern we've seen repeated several times this summer. It's far more common to see weather moving in from the southwest. Regardless of where it was coming from, it wasn't suppressing the heat. Still expecting a high near 93. Looking ahead to Thursday, they're calling for a high of 99!

I was at a cross road. It was 605am, the time I usually break away from the PC to meditate and stretch just ahead of a run. The storm was no over us, and there was plenty of thunder, lightning and rain. I double checked the radar. It was moving fast. I figured it would be gone by 7am.

While the storm rumbled through, I decided to steal a few extra winks from the sofa. It felt terrific. It stopped around 625am, or shortly before I got backup. It started up again midway through meditation and stretching. But judging by the radar, it would end anytime.

My calculations were spot on. By 7am the sky brightened and the rain stopped and thunder stopped. I headed out for a run at 705am. The sky still looked evil to the south but friendly to the north, the same direction our weather was moving in from.  I decided early on to limit my run to just three miles in an effort to regain some of the time I lost due to the storm. I was covered in a thick lather of sweat by the abbreviated run's conclusion.  Felt good though.

I was inside by 735am, about the same time that I'm usually off to the shower. I moved a bit faster than usual cooking my eggs and prepping my lunch. Once again, Mindy had a salad all ready for the go. That helped a lot. I finished my breakfast and was off to the shower by 755am.

I wore green Dockers and sky blue Polo golf shirt. I haven't been so colorful with my work attire for several years. Oh, I almost forgot,  I delivered Mindy's morning coffee before hitting the shower. I told her I had little time for pleasure after finding myself ready. She remained in bed when I left. I wasn't sure what the day held in store for her and the kids. Their original plan was to go out to Doug and Tara's and do some boating, but Mindy learned they had other guests coming out that day.

I left for work around 820am. And by the time I arrived at work the sun was already shining through the ever thinning cloud cover. Like I have for the past week or so, I completed a to-do list. And just like the day before, a couple urgent matters popped up right away that seemed to threaten my to-do list. I am not happy when that happens. I don't like the feeling of losing control. Horrid, I tell you!

I managed to knock the urgent/emergency issues out of the way by 11am and moved swiftly to my to-do list. It was a strange day. I had short bursts of time where I was amazingly productive relative to my to-do list completing far more than I could even imagine. But then there were a few more slowdowns that caused me to squirm a little. Each time I found a way to press through and attack the tasks causing me the most pain/stress.

My boss topped by for the first time in about two days. I shared how bogged down I felt with all the conflicting tasks that are common in my new position. But I also pointed out that I knew I had to go through a learning curve and that I expected to be somewhat overwhelmed. Otherwise, my job would be boring.

Like the day before, I worked straight through the day not stopping to do much more than pee and eat. In fact,  I ate while working. My goal all day long was to get on top of my mounting list of to-dos. I definitely didn't want to go home feeling like I did the day before. I managed through the day but once again ended up working later than normal. I was at the office until 6pm or just after. In the end, I felt really good about all I had accomplished.

I knew the grass needed cut, but wasn't looking forward to doing the deed at all. It was about 93 degrees with few if any clouds over head. At home, Mindy was busy on her laptop. She and the kids spent the afternoon at the pool. It was there that she learned her aunt Teet (her dad's sister) passed away.  Funeral would be held Friday at 1030am graveside. Wanted me to join her. I'd have to ask my boss.

I got the impression we'd be on our won for dinner, but a few minutes late she headed out to the deck and to the grill. I eventually followed and saw that she was grilling fish, Chilean sea bass.  She bought it at Whole Foods earlier that afternoon. Said she got my another 6-pack of Southern Tier XXIPA too. Cool!

Dinner was tasty and light, fish, salad, and a few of the leftover redskin potato wedges. After clean-up I declared it still too hot to cut the grass. It was still 91 degrees at 715pm. Lindsey & Kelly dropped off the boys around 715pm. They'd be spending the night so Lindsey and Kelly could go to court.

The boys ate a little and then headed over to the O'Connell's to play. I went to the recliner with my book, did some reading, then took a nap. Felt terrific. I got up around 8pm and headed out to cut the lawn. I couldn't wait any longer or I'd be battling darkness.

It was still hot. Less than five minutes into the task I decided to remove the t-shirt I was wearing. Way too warm for that.  I moved through the chore swiftly but carefully. I cut the front lawn long so not to leave clippings. And because I used the tractor for the back, it was much shorter out there. I was dripping head to toe with sweat. Mindy brought me a glass of ice water just as I was finishing up the pus mowing out back. It was near dark when I finished mowing. There was no time for whacking, edging or blowing.

I headed inside and quickly for the shower. And boy did that feel good! Mindy asked for my help getting the kids ready for bed. She already had Rocky and Landon bathed. It was already pushing 10pm. The evening went incredibly fast. After a quick snack, the kids were tucked into bed, but not before calling their mom to tell her good night. It was quite telling when Landon asked to talk with grandma Kelly right away.

Mindy and I sat up in the downstairs queen Anne chairs for about 20 minutes talking before we begged off to bed.  I really needed a good night of sleep.

Hermoine Granger, You'll Be a Woman Soon

I was up on time and woke feeling rested and rearing to go. I had to prep coffee after failing to do so the night before. I did that then started my exercise regimen. In between sit-ups and push-ups I always allow about 5-10 minutes to rest. In that span of time I checked headlines and the weather. It was already 73 degrees under clear skies. Expecting it to be hot later with highs in the low 90s. A slight chance of rain lingered, too. Looking ahead seven days, there wasn’t high below 93 and a low lower than 73. Can you say Sultry?

After push-ups I enjoyed some coffee again at the PC. I looked for any news about the NFL lockout ending but there was nothing new. I read the Daily OM then moved on to meditation and stretching. Both went well.

Somehow I managed to let time slip away. It was already after 635am by the time I slipped out the door for my run. It was incredibly humid and warm. I could feel the moisture in the early AM air. Soon I was dripping with head to toe with cool sweat. I ran the full 4.1 miles with no troubles. I passed the city trash truck in the cul-de-sac as last week. Both of us are creatures of habit, indeed.

Back home near 715am, I quickly but smoothly transitioned into food prep. Mindy was gracious enough to make me a salad the night before. I added some cut cheese, fruit, and a banana. That didn’t’ take long at all, and did so while the frying pan warmed. For breakfast I made an omelet. I was hoping to find spinach in the fridge but there was none, or at least I couldn’t find any.

Off to the shower by 735am. I delivered coffee to Mindy. She was asleep but woke when I walked in. After a shower she got up to join me for the few minutes I had before I needed to depart. We spent about ten minutes on the deck basking in the dappled morning sunshine. At the time, Mindy wasn’t sure what their entire day might entail. Originally, she planned to spend it with Wyoming friend Christa, who’s heading back home on Tuesday, but Christa let Mindy know that it wasn’t going to work out. Mindy did have plans to take Lindsey to a morning appointment downtown. While Lindsey was in the appointment, Mindy planned to take the boys and Bella to the new fountain park. She expected to be home by noon. I left for work at 810am.

I was looking forward to work and possibly completing my monthly reports. I compiled a to-do list to help keep myself on track. Had and have a lot of lingering to-dos. Bet even with the best laid plans, seems something always comes up that upsets the apple cart.  That was my Monday in a nut shell. For the first time in my new role, I was feeling completely inundated and overwhelmed.

Mindy sent a text with a photo mid-morning showing the boys and Bella in the fountain. Jacob wasn’t in the picture. She talked about allowing him to remain at home. I assumed that the case.

I took time to eat my packed lunch from my desk, but didn’t leave the office or take anytime just for myself. Because of that, I didn’t have an opportunity to release any work related frustration. Kept it with me all day long.

I ended up working fairly late too. Didn’t leave the office until almost 7pm. I talked with Mindy I’m thinking around 6pm t o tell her I’d be late. The one thing I noticed was that in that extra 1.5-2 hours, I was able to make some serious progress. No distractions!

Called Mindy via Bluetooth handsfree. Said she and the kids did some shopping. Jacob bought some new ear buds for his iTouch that has a mini-microphone which allows him to make VOIP phone calls as long as he’s attached to someone’s WIFI hot spot.

Mindy cubed most of Sunday’s leftover chicken breasts so we could make wraps. We had those and a salad. Mindy’s been busy with her weight watchers online, tracking her every point. I’ve noticed she drinking less soda pop (Fresca) and eating more healthy options like salad. She shared that a lot of veggies are zero points. If nothing else, weight watchers exposes one to portion control via simple awareness. 

I really needed to cut the lawn, but I had no energy or desire to head out in the heat, especially with a full belly after dinner. And besides, out of no where, a large storm cell was quickly moving our way from the north/northwest. On the radar there was lots of deep red, which always worries me. Think hail! They said as much too: “persons in the impacted areas should be on the lookout for large hail, strong winds and heavy torrential rains.” It got super windy and rained pretty hard, but thankfully, no hail. My new car was spared.  

I spent a little time online while Mindy and the kids settled in to watch a movie, the first Harry Potter movie. I joined them about five minutes in. I saw the first two in the series at the theatre. We watched the movie while it continued to rain outside. I hung in there as long as I could. I’d say about halfway through I grabbed one of the large pillows we stash behind the chair and tossed it on the floor where I could fully stretch out and sleep. I didn’t last long once down. I was out.

I slept while Mindy and the kids enjoyed the movie. I woke with plenty still to go and headed for bed. Mindy said she planned on pausing the movie until Tuesday at some point, but I think they ended up watching it all. Once in bed, I was quickly out. Good night Hermione Granger.

My Little China Doll

It was Sunday morning and I slept late. Wasn't up until a few minutes after 8am. Can't recall the last time I slept in past 8am. Been a while. The house was quiet. The wee ones were in one of the bedrooms watching TV. I assumed Bella's since she was at Emily's.

It was cloudy and warm outside - about 72 degrees. To my knowledge, it wasn't supposed to rain. I started a pot of coffee then fooled around on the internet. It wasn't long before the little kids were up. Rocky & Jacob remained asleep. I got them some breakfast and did my best to keep them relatively quiet so the others could remain sleeping. They played in the basement and in the family room. They were all over the place.

Around 845am me, Landon and Olivia took Eiknarf out for a walk. We all were in our barefeet. A fireman pulled up to the hydrant just as we were walking by. He was there to test the hydrant. Landon and Olivia quized him of his doings. He was kind and gave them a blow by blow. His last name was Kelley, usually at #2 unit but working #26. Asked if he knew Larry. He did. He asked if I knew where Mikey O'Connell lived. Of course, he's my neighbor.

Said he was supposed to fix his AC at his house but didn't show last week. Had half a notion to go by and wake him up. I pointed out his house and even encouraged him. :) We moved on as did he.

Back at home, it was too long before Mindy was up. After having some coffee she started some bacon and also planned to make pancakes. I prepared and left for a run. It was still cloudy but plenty warm. I ran the typical weekend trail -  three miles - without a problem.

At home, Mindy had the bacon and pancakes just about ready. Great timing! I had plain pancakes. Most of the kids dug up on the chocolate chip variety. The bacon was good too.  After we all had our fill, Mindy helped the wee ones get into some fresh clothes. I took them out back to play in the treehouse and swing. We played for about an hour.

We walked down to the O'Connell's so the kids could play on the trampoline. Looked like the girls had just woken up. Bella looked like a zombie. I told Mindy I don't think she'd slept. It was already after 12 noon. We planned to drop the G kids at home just before 2pm and then head to the wake service for little Lanie, Kenny's ex-wives baby girl who passed away on Tuesday.

Mindy and the kids got showers. By design, I went last. We were all set to leave the house around 140pm. Ashley called at some point and shared that we could simply plan on dropping Olivia off at Kelly's along with the boys. She was heading over there to visit. That made it easier on us. We dropped them near 2pm. Noticed Mindy's old minivan sitting out front. Courtney must've been over. Also noticed a handicapped sticker hanging from her rearview. Hmm?

As usual, both Courtney and Kelly scattered when we pulled up, purposefully moving out of eyeshot. Hilarious!  Ashley and Lindsey both came out to fetch their kids. We passed out hugs and kisses and were on our way.

We took the back way to the funeral home, Briggs, to 62 to Frank Rd to High St. The funeral home sits close to Whittier. Just a 1/2 mile from our destination, Mindy called both kids to attention in order to discuss what they might expect to see. Wasn't sure if it was an open casket or not, but she wanted to prepare them so they wouldn't be shocked. I thought it was afterwards. Bella was sound asleep and was very slow to wake, but eventually. Mindy told the kids that the baby would almost certianly look like a doll (unreal).  Having never before been to a babies wake, I wasn't sure what to expect either.

Arrived shortly after 210pm. It was packed full. We walked in with Kenny's mom. Haven't seen her in awhile. After greeting Kenny & Chrissy, we got in a long line to see Lanie, her mom and dad. I was nervous/sad. Michelle and Jason were most gracious. Michelle seemed to know Mindy right away and had nothing but pleasant things to say about us, our home and all the kids. She and Chrissy have built a relationship of sorts over the last year or so, in what once was a very tumultuous relationship.

Just as Mindy described, Lanie looked like a china doll. Her casket couldn't have been 30" long. We paid our respect and moved on. I ran into Jimmy Collins, and old high school pal and also a neighbor from our subdivision. Wasn't immediately sure of the connection. Apparently he's Michelle's uncle.

We didn't stay too long. Probably another ten minutes. Chrissy and Kenny planned to stay for the entire wake. We took Jake and Makayla home with us. Mindy had plans to cook dinner for all of us.

We arrived at home around 315pm. By then it was sunny, hot & steamy. Wasting not time at all, I quickly changed into my running shorts then headed out to power wash the deck, something I’ve had on my spring/summer to-do list since April.

I knew I didn’t have much gas left in my five gallon container and as expected, the power washer was nearly empty by design (never a good idea to leave gas setting idle for a year). I had more than enough to fill it, and probably enough for one more filling, but realized I needed to get some more gas soon. Going by past experience, I figured to use as many as three tanks of gas power washing the deck.

I decided to get started. Before starting the power washer, I moved all the smaller flower pots, chairs and other miscellaneous items to the backyard. I left the large pots on board, but planned to move them out of the way as needed. Took a few tries to get the PW started but eventually did.

Unlike times past, I started on the lower tier. The job is a tedious one, and it always seems like it’s gonna take forever. But once you get into a rhythm times seems to move along. Power washing is one of those tasks that allows you to think about other things, solve problems if you will.  It just takes a while to get the mind settled. The lower tier of the deck gets quite a bit of shade, so as a consequence, it build up a thin but tough coating of green algae or moss. Takes a little effort to power wash it off.  I’d guess it took about an hour to do the lower tier. Before moving on to the upper tier, I power washed the three plastic chairs we use on the deck. That went fast.

I topped off the fuel and was now just about out. Before starting it back up I kindly asked mindy for a favor, First, a refill of my ice water, and then asked if she would fetch me more gas. She happily agreed.

The upper tier was a much hotter job, all done in full sun. It had to be in the 90’s. The water mist felt great. The upper tier is larger and also sports a railing. Luckily, the vertical surfaces don’t get too dirty or mildewed. When doing the upper tier I always hit the stucco too. For some reason, the areas immediately perpendicular to the deck, and about 1-2’ up, tend to get some dark mildew growing on them. The power washer does a nice job of removing most of it. After finishing the upper tier, I gave the power washer a small break while I dumped out Mindy’s fountain to prepare it for a power washing. Over time, it’s built up a significant and unattractive amount of algae despite treating the water with algaecide periodically.

I laid it up on its side then power washed both sections (upper and lower). Next, I power washed the sea shells we put in it. Many were completely coated in algae. That algae is some tough stuff, but I won in the end. I put the fountain back together then refilled it. Looked like new just like the deck. After three hours of arduous work, I was ready to relax.

I carried everything I moved back up on the deck and then watered all the flowers before taking the power washer back to the garage. Covered with sweat and little bits of debris from the power washing exercise, I opted for another shower.

While I was busy power washing, Mindy was prepping dinner. She prepped a salad, red skin potato wedges, and boneless chicken breast for grillin’. We were having the neighbors over for dinner.

Dinner was quite good. I’m guessing it was near 630pm when we sat down to eat. The neighbors joined us but didn’t stay too long. I’m guessing they were outta there by 7-730pm.

As busy as our weekend was, there were a few chores needing done that I hadn’t had anytime to get to. For one, the grass sorely needed cut again, but that would simply have to wait. I also wanted to spray for weeds, but that would also have to wait until another day. I wanted to wash my new car too. That chore, I figured, I could still pull off. I headed out to the driveway with my car washing gear. I moved the Pilot to the curb to give myself some elbow room. It didn’t’ take long to wash the Accord, especially compared to the Trooper. But as you might guess, it takes a little longer than the BM’er, which I can usually whip out in 15 minutes or less.

I used this new micro-fiber towel I bought more than a month ago to dry it off. It worked OK, but nearly as well as a shami. I’ll need to buy a new shami.  Once the Accord was done, Mindy came out to chat.  I offered that we tag team the Pilot. She agreed. Before washing it, however, we tried figuring out where that unusual loud vibrational noise is coming from when tooling down the freeway. As suspected, we couldn’t pin point it with it simply idling in the driveway. I suspect it might have something to do with the add-on transmission cooler fan. We need to take it in before Mindy starts school.

With the two of us working together, it didn’t’ take long to wash and dry the Pilot. We even glossed up the tires. I thought briefly about doing the BM’er too but opted not in the end. It was getting late and the both of us were exhausted. I did take a few minutes to review the seat memory instructions in the handbook for the Accord. The first time Mindy drove it, she set it to her liking. Now, every time I get in I have re-adjust the seat. Frustrating! I figured it out and erased the position she set. Took a couple times, however.

It was 10pm in a jiffy. Even though I had bee nsucking down the water, I was crazy thirsty and craving soda pop, so I satiated my thirst with a Diet (Splenda) Coke. Nothing else would do.

I was a little stiff from all the day’s activity but resisted taking any Advil. Not really sure why. We shut the house down some time after 10pm and headed for bed. Time to return to work mode. Good night moon!

Shamrock & Chester

I was up at 710am. My head was a little foggy for the first 20 minutes or so, but by the time I started coffee and completed calisthenics, I was back in the game feeling no worse for the wear.

I spent a little time enjoying coffee while playing around online but then readied fairly quickly or a run. I ran three miles like most Saturday’s. It was warm and sunny. The run went well, but that’s what I expected.

We had a 1015am tee time at Foxfire Player’s Club. I was much looking forward to that. I headed to the shower as soon as I was back home. I took Mindy some coffee. I could tell that she expected me to feel bad. She seemed surprised when I said I felt fine.

I was showered and dressed by 850am. I planned to leave around 915am. Mindy joined me downstairs while I ate some breakfast. She confirmed her plans to attend yoga. Said Jim agreed to keep the kids a couple hours longer to enable her to. I warmed a leftover cheeseburger for breakfast. I packed a large Gatorade and bottled water for golf. I called Kenny just after 9am. He agreed to drive. Said he’d stop down to pick me up in a few minutes.

Talked with Ashley around 9am. Discussed her bringing Olivia and the boys over around 4 or 5pm. We’d work out the details later. She was working OT until 11am or noon.

I told Mindy she could take the Accord if she so desired. She didn’t think she would. No sense parking it along the street. Kenny showed up around 920am. Off we went to Foxfire.

Arrived at Foxfire around 945am. Lot was a bit more crowded than we expected. We found a spot right up front. Must’ve been from an ‘early bird’s’ departure. No sign of the Bob’s for another 10 minutes. While we were practicing on the putting green, the starter hollered for anyone ready to tee off. Said both boxes were open – Player’s Club and Foxfire. A large group set for 1045am took him up on it. I wasn’t pleased that he was letting 8 people slated to tee off after us go in front. The Bob’s had just pulled up in their cart.

I walked over and asked the starter why he did that in lieu of calling for us. It was only 1010am. He had no good reason. Seemed unaware of his foolish move. I did my best to let it go.

As you might guess, it took a while for the tee box to clear. The order was set. I was going next to last. Uncharacteristically, my first drive wasn’t a good one. Went straight but only about 50 yards. Topped it.  Urgh!

I followed that with a long 3-wood that landed slightly left of the fairway but within 140 yards of the green. I hit an 8-iron, needing to ensure I cleared a tree. I landed it just in front of the green, about 15-20’ from the hole. I chipped on but two putted for a double. I wasn’t too pleased with my inability to score.

I started to straighten things out on the next hole, a par 3 I believe. No one was playing all that well on the front. I was striking the ball well but not scoring. What’s new? I was determined to change that, and gave myself a little pep talk after hole #8.

As we made the turn both Bob I. and I caught fire. In the next 5 holes I had a birdie, 3 pars, and a bogey. All of the sudden I was scoring! Time to head into the woods to the two long par 5’s. Even when my game’s been down, I’ve managed to play those holes fairly well. I expected more of the same. Why not?

Well, unfortunately, my lucked changed. I shot an 8 then a 7. So much for stringing together nine holes under 40. I finished the last three holes fairly well, two bogeys and then a par on 18. I shot a 91 (47-44). I can’t be disappointed in the score. That’s my game, though I know I left a few easy one’s get away from me.

Throughout the round, we had a little side game going – cart against cart for 6 holes three times. Bob & Bob won two of the three sets by one stroke both times. Kenny and won the final six holes. We had to fork over a $1 a piece.

We chatted about doing it again two weeks out, perhaps playing Cook’s Creek or possibly even Chapel Hill. It was 310pm when we headed for home.  I called Mindy. She was home from yoga, but currently on the road to get a few things from Giant Eagle as well as some treats for Mike and Teri O’s two new Jack Russell puppies.

Their kids were pumped. They knew they were getting one, but didn’t know about the second. Mindy said they were giddy. Mindy asked about dinner plans. Asked how I felt about pizza. Fine with me. Said Ashley called and planned to bring the kids around 5pm.

We walked down to the neighbors to see their new puppies as soon as I got home.  Tiny and cute! 440pm I headed home to water flowers and then get another shower. I was sticky and a little itchy having played in the sunshine all day.

The G kids showed up a little after 5pm. Ashley walked down to see the puppies with Mindy. All the kids ran down too. They were all pumped up to staying at pawpaw’s place. J

Mindy suggested we order pizzas around 6pm. She did the ordering. I agreed to fetch ‘em. Before I left to get ‘em, I headed out to the tree swing with the wee ones and pushed both of them a time or two. Olivia was insistent.

Minelli’s gave an ETA of 20 minutes, but they’re always ready before that. I left after 15. Much to my surprise, I had to wait about 10 minutes. It was dinner rush. Mindy corralled the kids while I was out. They were waiting intently for the pizza when I got back. Neighbor Jake was joining us too. We had plenty – two extra-large pies, one pepperoni, and one pepperoni, sausage, and banana peppers. Both were exceptional, especially the pepperoni.

I must’ve had 6 or 7 pieces in total. It was going down easy.  I could’ve eaten more but wanted to save room for some Belgian IPA. I couldn’t wait to tap my jug.

Shortly after cleaning up the kitchen, I poured myself an IPA. The kids were off playing in one of the neighbors’ yards. They were all having a ball. Mindy and I walked down to the O’Connell’s so the wee ones could jump on their trampoline. While they jumped, the others played with the new puppies. Reminded me of Woody and Frankie. They barely had a chance to put their legs on the ground.

Walked down to Chrissy’s and Kenny a little later. Kenny was installing a zipline for Woody from the back of the house to a tree about 30 yards out.  I watched him work. Didn’t take him long. I refilled my pint glass a time or two, and eventually walked back to the O’Connell’s to get the kids. All the boys were planning to sleep in the tree house for the first time. I was happy to accommodate, but didn’t think they’d last long at all.

It was dark by the time we outfitted the boys with sleeping bags, a cooler with drinks, and flashlights. There were four of them: Jake, Jacob, Rocky, and Evan. While the boys were getting settled in the tree house, Mindy had a movie whirling inside for the wee one.

Mindy let me walk back down to the neighbors. It wasn’t five minutes before Evan came bopping back. Said the mosquitoes were too much and that he wanted to see his puppies. Bella asked if she could spend the night with Emily.  I called Mindy to ask permission. Yep, but she needed to head home first. I hung with the neighbors for a few more minutes, but headed home myself by 1015pm.

I wasn’t in the house five minutes before Jacob and Rocky came in calling off their camp out. Said the girls were lighting off fireworks near the treehouse and the mosquitoes were bad. I think they got a little spooked.

We all headed to bed before 11pm. Good night Shamrock & Chester.