For those of you who know Art Diaz you will understand what a treat it is when I get to see him. One would think that since he and Connie are retired that catching up with them would be easy, not to be. They are always going somewhere, visiting their other home is Indio, using their RV so when Art said he was going to be up here to visit this weekend I was delighted. He came over this morning about 7 and we did the circuit around the lake, easy stuff for him since he usually climbs some mountain as part of his walk. Then he treated me to breakfast at the Byron Inn Cafe. The oatmeal was perfect and the company was even better.
Once we came back home I asked if he could help me move the paddle boat from the water behind the house to the front yard so I could power wash it and get it ready to take to the church campout this weekend at Lake McSwain. We wrestled it out of the water and slide it on its side to the front yard where we applied the water pressure. While much of the filth came off there is still lots of staining remaining. Now it sits in the front driveway waiting further cleaning. Once Art was through helping he had to go.
I came into the house and found a packet the mix for a latte on the counter. I do not know where it came from but once I dumped it into the hot water it began to sizzle and pop. I should have dumped it right then but I drank it. My insides have felt like they were at war every since drinking the brew. And now at 9:20, many hours later, they still are churning and unhappy. I've napped and tried to rest and get past it but so far today has been a waste once Art left.
I look forward to the rest of the week. I have several orders to attend to right away and I'm very thankful for the work. I'm still remembering how much fun it was to attend Kallie's party yesterday. This afternoon when I saw her for a minute she came out, hugged me and said I had a party with a big winning smile. She certainly knows she is loved, its a nice feeling for all of us, to know someone cares in this highly busy and impersonal world.
Love to all,
Tim
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Kallie turns 2 and what a party!
Some people just know how to throw a party, Steve and Nikki are such people. When I arrived at 2:30 I found pony rides being given in the street and Kallie was loving every minute of it. Turns out she had three rides. Then as I ventured into the back yard I found a full blown petting zoo complete with ducks, chickens, rabbits, a pot bellied pig and a goat. The little fenced area was full of kids enjoying the little creatures and the farmer person in charge keeping everything clean and fun. Once back in the house I found Nikki and Steve had enlisted the neighbors who were cutting pineapples, watermellon, grapes, creating great eats for everyone and speaking of everyone, about 40 adults, over 17 kidos and mountains of presents that Kallie is probably still opening. She had a blast tearing paper, throwing it in the air and holding the new dollies, games, clothes, books etc.
Kallie enjoyed roaming inside and out, playing, smiling, saying cheese when someone took a picture. It seemed the entire block turned out and helped make this a huge success. Steve was doing burgers when I left, had already done hot dogs, had three chests full of water and drinks, since the theme of the party was little piggies the cupcakes were made with piggies on top, each child got a piggy bank to paint and color and take home. What an exciting moment in time to get to be a part of. I've included a few photos to try to convey the happy time.
This evening after the party I drove to Pleasant Hill and inspected a really nice place, it is going into a short sale probably but it sits by a little stream, has a beautiful pool and nearly 1/2 an acre yet is right in the middle of town. I loved the people, they were so kind and fun and ended sending a dozen eggs their chickens had laid right there at their place. That is what I love about my job, the contact with the wonderful people of this country, they live, they work hard, they dream big, they play hard, they have kids, they struggle. Its a privilege to be a part of the process and from time to time actually end up helping people with their struggles.
So good night all and good job Nikki and Steve, amazing and Keanna was right there helping the whole day, a very good sport.
Love
tim
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Kallie and Keanna brighten the day
Good evening family and friends,
It was pretty easy to pop up this morning and do the three miles. After walking yesterday and then riding the bike a long ways last evening my feet and knees complained a bit.
I picked the girls who were just finishing a big breakfast and we drove to Tracy searching all the while for cows to comment on as we drove. Once in Tracy we discovered that Emily was in charge of Sabbath School today and only had her little kido Luke in attendance. So I played the piano, Keanna came and helped out and we had a good Sabbath School, later a couple more little girls from the neighborhood joined in. Emily did a great job and I stumbled through the songs on the piano. Kallie had a blast and so did Keanna.
Then it was time to find lunch, today we found it at the McDonalds located in WalMart. At first the girls were not that hungry but their appetites grew as time passed. Kallie ended up eating 1/2 a bag of apple pieces, 2 apple juice boxes and fries while Keanna had 8 pieces of chicken, fries, a whole bag of apple pieces and one apple juice.
Once home I delivered happy girls to their adorning parents. They were glad to see them home.
I came home and napped with the doggies, then snacked a bit and finally went to meet my friend, just as I was leaving she called to say her dad wanted to tag along to see the condo once again, well that changed the plans a bit but I enjoyed meeting him and we took a hard look at the condo. There are good things and bad things about it. The floor has sunk in places causing cracking but the bath and kitchen are all newly updated. The price seems reasonable. So when we were through inspecting the condo they went their way and I found Olive Garden. Some good Eggplant and salad, it was great, I ate at the bar so could talk to the bartender, they are really interesting people, sure beats eating alone and talking to yourself.
Now I'm home and ready to head to bed. Not all of the day turned out as I had expected but it was good and I discovered I really enjoyed talking to my friend.
So good night to all,
Tim
It was pretty easy to pop up this morning and do the three miles. After walking yesterday and then riding the bike a long ways last evening my feet and knees complained a bit.
I picked the girls who were just finishing a big breakfast and we drove to Tracy searching all the while for cows to comment on as we drove. Once in Tracy we discovered that Emily was in charge of Sabbath School today and only had her little kido Luke in attendance. So I played the piano, Keanna came and helped out and we had a good Sabbath School, later a couple more little girls from the neighborhood joined in. Emily did a great job and I stumbled through the songs on the piano. Kallie had a blast and so did Keanna.
Then it was time to find lunch, today we found it at the McDonalds located in WalMart. At first the girls were not that hungry but their appetites grew as time passed. Kallie ended up eating 1/2 a bag of apple pieces, 2 apple juice boxes and fries while Keanna had 8 pieces of chicken, fries, a whole bag of apple pieces and one apple juice.
Once home I delivered happy girls to their adorning parents. They were glad to see them home.
I came home and napped with the doggies, then snacked a bit and finally went to meet my friend, just as I was leaving she called to say her dad wanted to tag along to see the condo once again, well that changed the plans a bit but I enjoyed meeting him and we took a hard look at the condo. There are good things and bad things about it. The floor has sunk in places causing cracking but the bath and kitchen are all newly updated. The price seems reasonable. So when we were through inspecting the condo they went their way and I found Olive Garden. Some good Eggplant and salad, it was great, I ate at the bar so could talk to the bartender, they are really interesting people, sure beats eating alone and talking to yourself.
Now I'm home and ready to head to bed. Not all of the day turned out as I had expected but it was good and I discovered I really enjoyed talking to my friend.
So good night to all,
Tim
Friday, May 28, 2010
Life is great
This adventure we call living certainly can be exciting. I started this day by walking around the lake in the beautiful morning air, then I made breakfast, 2 eggs, toast, vege sausage and strawberries.
It was straight to work and after writing two reports with a quick lunch break I was ready to unwind. Lois and I went shopping and searched for a small brass part that is needed to make the BBQ work for the motorhome again, no luck, the part is rare, not even located on the Internet yet. Then we went to purchase dog food, treats and a big bone for Jazz, her yellow lab.
Once we got home I decided to pull down the bike that hangs over my car in the garage, its so much easier to get down now than a year ago. I put air in the tires and enjoyed a nice ride to the storage yard where the motorhome resides. Once I got it home I started to work on the BBQ hookup thinking I could probably force the issue and make the quick connect work again, no such luck this time. Finally I gave up and came in, made a 100 calorie bag of popcorn and I'm writing to you dear friend.
I enjoyed a long talk with a special friend today and we remembered motorhome trips, camping and the wonders of church life from past years. I'll miss him on this upcoming trip. At the moment I'm trying to figure out how to carry the paddle boat to the campout. I think it would be enjoyed by many people if we could just get it there. Lois thinks she has lined up a little trailer I could use and I've also thought of hoisting it onto the top of the motorhome. It has been my experience that camping is more fun when you can not only sit by the water but also be on the water as well.
Kallie and her mother came to visit briefly this afternoon, Kallie lights up the room with her 100 watt smile, is busy with dolls, toys, puppies and the adventure of being at Papa's house instead of her own. I can't wait until she turns 2, imagine 2 years old, how very special. She has learned to sing Happy Birthday and now sings it to herself.
In the morning I have the rare privilege to convey both young ladies to Sabbath School. It is always a blast to see they enjoy such a good thing so much. Both Kim and Sylvia do a great job of teaching and along with Wes, Rod and Pat its time well spent. Keanna got her precious yoyo at school but I've not seen it yet. She counted out her money and had it ready to take to school to make the purchase. She didn't know that her mother had sent a check so she paid for it herself, pretty cute.
I'm having dinner with a long time friend tomorrow evening. We have worked together over the past few years, she ordering appraisals and helping us both. Now she is considering purchasing a little condo and needs my advice, well advice is best given over a nice dinner. Its sort of a new experience for me as she is somewhat taller than me and pretty attractive, it will be challenge for me to take this new step in life with someone like her, this is another of those times in life when you just have to walk forward even though you might be very afraid and unsettled. I can do this, I eat all the time, right! Now my dear friend, don't expect full disclosure on how it goes, there are some things that need to stay private.
So good night my friends, this week I lost an important client and so far have received 5 orders from a new one, one never knows what will happen next but I never walk alone.
Love
tim
It was straight to work and after writing two reports with a quick lunch break I was ready to unwind. Lois and I went shopping and searched for a small brass part that is needed to make the BBQ work for the motorhome again, no luck, the part is rare, not even located on the Internet yet. Then we went to purchase dog food, treats and a big bone for Jazz, her yellow lab.
Once we got home I decided to pull down the bike that hangs over my car in the garage, its so much easier to get down now than a year ago. I put air in the tires and enjoyed a nice ride to the storage yard where the motorhome resides. Once I got it home I started to work on the BBQ hookup thinking I could probably force the issue and make the quick connect work again, no such luck this time. Finally I gave up and came in, made a 100 calorie bag of popcorn and I'm writing to you dear friend.
I enjoyed a long talk with a special friend today and we remembered motorhome trips, camping and the wonders of church life from past years. I'll miss him on this upcoming trip. At the moment I'm trying to figure out how to carry the paddle boat to the campout. I think it would be enjoyed by many people if we could just get it there. Lois thinks she has lined up a little trailer I could use and I've also thought of hoisting it onto the top of the motorhome. It has been my experience that camping is more fun when you can not only sit by the water but also be on the water as well.
Kallie and her mother came to visit briefly this afternoon, Kallie lights up the room with her 100 watt smile, is busy with dolls, toys, puppies and the adventure of being at Papa's house instead of her own. I can't wait until she turns 2, imagine 2 years old, how very special. She has learned to sing Happy Birthday and now sings it to herself.
In the morning I have the rare privilege to convey both young ladies to Sabbath School. It is always a blast to see they enjoy such a good thing so much. Both Kim and Sylvia do a great job of teaching and along with Wes, Rod and Pat its time well spent. Keanna got her precious yoyo at school but I've not seen it yet. She counted out her money and had it ready to take to school to make the purchase. She didn't know that her mother had sent a check so she paid for it herself, pretty cute.
I'm having dinner with a long time friend tomorrow evening. We have worked together over the past few years, she ordering appraisals and helping us both. Now she is considering purchasing a little condo and needs my advice, well advice is best given over a nice dinner. Its sort of a new experience for me as she is somewhat taller than me and pretty attractive, it will be challenge for me to take this new step in life with someone like her, this is another of those times in life when you just have to walk forward even though you might be very afraid and unsettled. I can do this, I eat all the time, right! Now my dear friend, don't expect full disclosure on how it goes, there are some things that need to stay private.
So good night my friends, this week I lost an important client and so far have received 5 orders from a new one, one never knows what will happen next but I never walk alone.
Love
tim
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Working it through
Good evening,
This has been a week of production and I'm proud of that. Unlike some days when I have a very hard time settling down and working this week has been different. Oh I've had my moments to be sure but for the most part having deadlines to meet is a good thing and having the girls in the morning has been like outstanding frosting on a cake, they are just so precious. This morning I heard Keanna's feet hit the floor and then I heard Kallie making noises so I went up even though it was a bit early. Kallie was surrounded by books she loves in her bed and she began to hand them out to me, then she handed herself out and we got ready for the day. At breakfast both girls brought their appetites and Kallie found that she loved strawberries with a little bit of whipped cream to dip them in. I think we went through 6 berries before we ran out of time. Keanna had her food down in record time and was proud to count out money she was taking to school to purchase a yoyo. Nikki tells me she did get to purchase it this morning. Once they were both delivered to their places for the day then I headed back home to begin working up files. I've just put the finishing touches on number 3 for the day plus I did a local inspection and even collected the fee. The mails were kind to me today so at least part of the house payment is now covered, yea!
This evening I was invited to have dinner with Ron and Lydia, Wade and Jody and their little kido who is 2. What a delightful meal we had. Wade also caught me up on what I missed after I came home and he traveled on with the group. Pretty nice place they went to next, perhaps another time I'll visit it.
Well it is bed time but I'm told I'm not needed in the AM since Steve's job is taking a break tomorrow. Keanna has a day free from school so they will learn how to do the yoyo and have a good day together. I plan to walk first and then really work hard on the reports that need to be completed, make appointments for the new orders and even do a bit of housework to prepare the house for Sabbath.
Sending love to all of you, thanks to the kindness of someone that was going to go on the church campout but has decided not to go there is a campsite now available so the door has been opened so I can go to the campout. I love it there by the little Lake McSwain, just hope its not too hot.
Love
Tim
This has been a week of production and I'm proud of that. Unlike some days when I have a very hard time settling down and working this week has been different. Oh I've had my moments to be sure but for the most part having deadlines to meet is a good thing and having the girls in the morning has been like outstanding frosting on a cake, they are just so precious. This morning I heard Keanna's feet hit the floor and then I heard Kallie making noises so I went up even though it was a bit early. Kallie was surrounded by books she loves in her bed and she began to hand them out to me, then she handed herself out and we got ready for the day. At breakfast both girls brought their appetites and Kallie found that she loved strawberries with a little bit of whipped cream to dip them in. I think we went through 6 berries before we ran out of time. Keanna had her food down in record time and was proud to count out money she was taking to school to purchase a yoyo. Nikki tells me she did get to purchase it this morning. Once they were both delivered to their places for the day then I headed back home to begin working up files. I've just put the finishing touches on number 3 for the day plus I did a local inspection and even collected the fee. The mails were kind to me today so at least part of the house payment is now covered, yea!
This evening I was invited to have dinner with Ron and Lydia, Wade and Jody and their little kido who is 2. What a delightful meal we had. Wade also caught me up on what I missed after I came home and he traveled on with the group. Pretty nice place they went to next, perhaps another time I'll visit it.
Well it is bed time but I'm told I'm not needed in the AM since Steve's job is taking a break tomorrow. Keanna has a day free from school so they will learn how to do the yoyo and have a good day together. I plan to walk first and then really work hard on the reports that need to be completed, make appointments for the new orders and even do a bit of housework to prepare the house for Sabbath.
Sending love to all of you, thanks to the kindness of someone that was going to go on the church campout but has decided not to go there is a campsite now available so the door has been opened so I can go to the campout. I love it there by the little Lake McSwain, just hope its not too hot.
Love
Tim
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Life sure stays interesting
Good evening friends and family,
http://www.boreme.com/boreme/funny-2007/ellen-gladys-hardy2-p1.php
Before you do anything else click on the above and watch some of the funniest TV ever. Sylvia sent it to me and I'm still laughing minutes later. Just click on the line and your computer will find the site, it is amazing, an 88 year old lady and what a hoot.
Well this morning I not only had to go care for the girls but I also had to make a deposit or they might run me out of town. Where does all the money go? We had Belgium Waffles and they both ate very well. We got them to their places early today which was a nice change and proves it can be done, but probably not repeated!
After delivering Keanna I raced home, switched cars and went to my first appointment, a beautiful home located on the golf course. Then I raced back home and wrote up the appraisal on the spot. After emailing it out I started on the next one. Then it was time to pick up her highness. After picking her up I raced back home, dropped her off, had Lois watch her for a few minutes and headed for a 1 pm appointment. This appointment turned out to be a little different. For several months the wife has tried to get her ex to agree to the appraisal and he always breaks the appointment. Today he kept it but just as I started a local cop showed up and stood guard over the door for the entire time I was there. This husband and wife have very serious issues, I mean the atmosphere was icy in the house between them while I did my work, talk about tension. Of course the very best thing about it all was they both paid me on the spot and then I raced that money to the bank as well. After that I had an amazing $4.00 in the business account. Oh my, its time for clients to pay up I think. I'm working 12 hour days but no one is paying, its the lag from when I was in Costa Rica, just happens and the bank is good to work with me, still the OD charges were amazing and vile.
Once the appraisal was out of the way Keanna, Lois and I went to McDonalds. Lois had already given her the jello and popped popcorn for her. Still she downed the 6 pieces of chicken like it was nothing and played on the playground equipment with some friends from school. Finally we came back home and I started to work and she did her homework, then enjoyed working on sheets I printed from grandparents.com, a very nice site.
At 5:15 I delivered her to her mother and Nikki and I both drove to the spin class at the club. Nikki is really strong and can do a lot more than I can but I think I put out more sweat than anyone in the room, wow what a workout and a literal pain in the butt.
Once Spin class was history I drove home and went back to work, now I've finished another appraisal and its time to sleep.
Life is not boring and when Keanna is around it gets downright exciting. She is bright, driven, talented and loves to boss her Papa around, well that goes just so far but i do love having her in my life. Lucky me, blessed me actually.
Love to all
Tim
http://www.boreme.com/boreme/funny-2007/ellen-gladys-hardy2-p1.php
Before you do anything else click on the above and watch some of the funniest TV ever. Sylvia sent it to me and I'm still laughing minutes later. Just click on the line and your computer will find the site, it is amazing, an 88 year old lady and what a hoot.
Well this morning I not only had to go care for the girls but I also had to make a deposit or they might run me out of town. Where does all the money go? We had Belgium Waffles and they both ate very well. We got them to their places early today which was a nice change and proves it can be done, but probably not repeated!
After delivering Keanna I raced home, switched cars and went to my first appointment, a beautiful home located on the golf course. Then I raced back home and wrote up the appraisal on the spot. After emailing it out I started on the next one. Then it was time to pick up her highness. After picking her up I raced back home, dropped her off, had Lois watch her for a few minutes and headed for a 1 pm appointment. This appointment turned out to be a little different. For several months the wife has tried to get her ex to agree to the appraisal and he always breaks the appointment. Today he kept it but just as I started a local cop showed up and stood guard over the door for the entire time I was there. This husband and wife have very serious issues, I mean the atmosphere was icy in the house between them while I did my work, talk about tension. Of course the very best thing about it all was they both paid me on the spot and then I raced that money to the bank as well. After that I had an amazing $4.00 in the business account. Oh my, its time for clients to pay up I think. I'm working 12 hour days but no one is paying, its the lag from when I was in Costa Rica, just happens and the bank is good to work with me, still the OD charges were amazing and vile.
Once the appraisal was out of the way Keanna, Lois and I went to McDonalds. Lois had already given her the jello and popped popcorn for her. Still she downed the 6 pieces of chicken like it was nothing and played on the playground equipment with some friends from school. Finally we came back home and I started to work and she did her homework, then enjoyed working on sheets I printed from grandparents.com, a very nice site.
At 5:15 I delivered her to her mother and Nikki and I both drove to the spin class at the club. Nikki is really strong and can do a lot more than I can but I think I put out more sweat than anyone in the room, wow what a workout and a literal pain in the butt.
Once Spin class was history I drove home and went back to work, now I've finished another appraisal and its time to sleep.
Life is not boring and when Keanna is around it gets downright exciting. She is bright, driven, talented and loves to boss her Papa around, well that goes just so far but i do love having her in my life. Lucky me, blessed me actually.
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
A Long Successful Day
8:30 and I'm delighted to finally be at my desk in the home office. I could not sleep this morning after about 3 am, got up when the alarm went off at 5:45 and enjoyed having breakfast with the girls and delivering them to their places for the day. The I rushed home, loaded up the briefcase, water and snacks and set out for Sacramento. The first place was not all that great but the comps were nearby. Then I drove to Fairfield and arrived early for the next appointment. By this time rain was threatening to fall and I measured quickly. This home was really nice and the buyers were there to see their home a second time.
After Fairfield the next stop was Hayward and once again I arrived early. For this one I had a coded lockbox so I didn't have to wait for anyone, just did my job. It was a three story high townhome near the airport. Once that job was completed I headed over to the last property of the day, a totally updated little house that was so perfect but is selling well above the other comps, yikes that is always a challenge. I can see why the buyers were willing to pay the price but I have to rely on what other buyers have been willing to pay in the area.
Once that one was completed I turned for home and while traffic was nasty coming through Pleasanton I had a good Alex Cross book playing which helped the time pass quickly.
Now I'm home to discover one of the orders has cancelled, of course it is the last one I got from the company where I will not be getting any more work.
Now I'm faced with trying to to figure out which appraisal report to write up first. Its not an easy choice since I have so many right now.
I must say I enjoyed calls today from Sylvia who seems to be a mind reader, knowing just when friendly call is needed. Talking to Nikki also was a huge boost as she knows the stress I live under with finances stretched to the breaking point and long lags with no checks coming in. I also heard from Jason and is is facing the last day of the school year and graduation this weekend. I think he is ready for a change of pace.
Keeping hold of the good vibes of life is pretty challenging today. I'm meeting a friend at a place she wants to purchase this weekend, she just wants a second opinion and that scares me, one hates to be wrong in advising others in what steps they should take. If your advice turns out great then they could depend on you for the next advice and if it turns out lousy then its your fault.
Human relationships are so exciting, yet complicated at the same time. I'm constantly amazed at how dull some people are, just content to be part of the masses with no desire to achieve and I'm also struck in awe at some who are leaders, who think big thoughts, plan bold moves and seem to have success as a middle name.
Knowing God's will for ones life should come much easier at my age but I nearly always wonder what is next, what God has in mind, what I should do next or not do. I've always wrestled with knowing God's will or could it be I just don't like to accept His direction or suggestions. Can I just say it one more time, I miss Nan who had no trouble making decisions, had a very clear head about life and led an uncluttered life. Everyone knew where she stood on everything and she didn't care if one liked it or not. She cared about people but not about stuff, or power, or swaying others opinions of her. I miss her stability, her charms, her good cooking, great pies, fun planning and her humor which was pretty dry at times.
Well its time to find some soup and I think head to bed. Tomorrow promises to be another challenge and I want to be ready for it.
Love to all, friend and family
Tim
After Fairfield the next stop was Hayward and once again I arrived early. For this one I had a coded lockbox so I didn't have to wait for anyone, just did my job. It was a three story high townhome near the airport. Once that job was completed I headed over to the last property of the day, a totally updated little house that was so perfect but is selling well above the other comps, yikes that is always a challenge. I can see why the buyers were willing to pay the price but I have to rely on what other buyers have been willing to pay in the area.
Once that one was completed I turned for home and while traffic was nasty coming through Pleasanton I had a good Alex Cross book playing which helped the time pass quickly.
Now I'm home to discover one of the orders has cancelled, of course it is the last one I got from the company where I will not be getting any more work.
Now I'm faced with trying to to figure out which appraisal report to write up first. Its not an easy choice since I have so many right now.
I must say I enjoyed calls today from Sylvia who seems to be a mind reader, knowing just when friendly call is needed. Talking to Nikki also was a huge boost as she knows the stress I live under with finances stretched to the breaking point and long lags with no checks coming in. I also heard from Jason and is is facing the last day of the school year and graduation this weekend. I think he is ready for a change of pace.
Keeping hold of the good vibes of life is pretty challenging today. I'm meeting a friend at a place she wants to purchase this weekend, she just wants a second opinion and that scares me, one hates to be wrong in advising others in what steps they should take. If your advice turns out great then they could depend on you for the next advice and if it turns out lousy then its your fault.
Human relationships are so exciting, yet complicated at the same time. I'm constantly amazed at how dull some people are, just content to be part of the masses with no desire to achieve and I'm also struck in awe at some who are leaders, who think big thoughts, plan bold moves and seem to have success as a middle name.
Knowing God's will for ones life should come much easier at my age but I nearly always wonder what is next, what God has in mind, what I should do next or not do. I've always wrestled with knowing God's will or could it be I just don't like to accept His direction or suggestions. Can I just say it one more time, I miss Nan who had no trouble making decisions, had a very clear head about life and led an uncluttered life. Everyone knew where she stood on everything and she didn't care if one liked it or not. She cared about people but not about stuff, or power, or swaying others opinions of her. I miss her stability, her charms, her good cooking, great pies, fun planning and her humor which was pretty dry at times.
Well its time to find some soup and I think head to bed. Tomorrow promises to be another challenge and I want to be ready for it.
Love to all, friend and family
Tim
Monday, May 24, 2010
Uphill, downhill
Good evening
This has been a full day with joy and sadness. This afternoon an email came in that changed a lot of things, the lender, management company that I just recently was able to be approved with again after a month of no orders has decided that one level of management did not give approval so I can no longer receive orders. It was a huge blow as I was just starting to get into the groove to do their work rapidly and now its over. Yet to be honest another company just ordered their second appraisal today and inquired about a 3rd so there is still work to be done and my own bank ordered 4 appraisals in the last 24 hours, all local and all full pay.
Yet I was very bummed out, no one likes to lose a major client over a political decision. Otherwise its been a very good day, I helped the girls this morning and once they were delivered I headed to Stockton to see two houses. Once that was done I came home and wrote the one that was due today. Then I began to set up orders. I took a break at 5:30 for Weight Watchers where I discovered my sinful life had caught up with me and I gained a 1/2 pound. I thought it would be more.
Now I'm heading to bed. I have in incredible day tomorrow, girls at 6:30, Sacramento at 10:30, Fairfield at 1:30, Hayward at 4 and then 5:30, by then I'll be pretty tired and very anxious to head home.
Love to all,
Tim
This has been a full day with joy and sadness. This afternoon an email came in that changed a lot of things, the lender, management company that I just recently was able to be approved with again after a month of no orders has decided that one level of management did not give approval so I can no longer receive orders. It was a huge blow as I was just starting to get into the groove to do their work rapidly and now its over. Yet to be honest another company just ordered their second appraisal today and inquired about a 3rd so there is still work to be done and my own bank ordered 4 appraisals in the last 24 hours, all local and all full pay.
Yet I was very bummed out, no one likes to lose a major client over a political decision. Otherwise its been a very good day, I helped the girls this morning and once they were delivered I headed to Stockton to see two houses. Once that was done I came home and wrote the one that was due today. Then I began to set up orders. I took a break at 5:30 for Weight Watchers where I discovered my sinful life had caught up with me and I gained a 1/2 pound. I thought it would be more.
Now I'm heading to bed. I have in incredible day tomorrow, girls at 6:30, Sacramento at 10:30, Fairfield at 1:30, Hayward at 4 and then 5:30, by then I'll be pretty tired and very anxious to head home.
Love to all,
Tim
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The New Week looms large
Dear Family and Friends,
9 pm Sunday evening, the house is still except for quiet classical music playing through the online KDFC system, a lonely violin is playing something haunting from a live concert in Cleveland, the Cleveland Orchestra. Life is enhanced when great music is alive and nearby.
Today has not been a day when one would want to be outside. The wind has been buffeting the house all day. This morning after Ken and I braved the elements I arrived home to build a fire. It lifted the house to a livable level for the whole day, thanks once again to Jerry for bringing such excellent wood. I made a hearty breakfast of steel cut oats, a half slice of my homemade bread, a sausage patty and grapes and strawberries.
After breakfast I settled in to work and have written two reports today, both were due and have been emailed out. Another waits to be written but after caring for the little girls in the morning I'm off to Stockton to see two properties, then quickly return to write one of them up to email out in the afternoon. Then on Tuesday I'm off again to see properties in Sacramento and Fairfield as well as Hayward. Not at all close to each other.
It is nice to have work and to be able to complete it on time. Its a sort of forced discipline and frankly I like it, I value it and I'm enjoying work again.
Next Sunday will be a very special day, Kallie is turning 2 years old and celebrating her day will be very special. What a delight she has turned out to be, reminds me so much of her grandmother, nearly always pleasant, positive, happy and stubborn too.
Well for now I'm heading to bed. Early for once I hope unless I am waylaid as I walk to the bedroom from the office. It happens sometimes and two hours later I stagger to bed.
Love
tim
9 pm Sunday evening, the house is still except for quiet classical music playing through the online KDFC system, a lonely violin is playing something haunting from a live concert in Cleveland, the Cleveland Orchestra. Life is enhanced when great music is alive and nearby.
Today has not been a day when one would want to be outside. The wind has been buffeting the house all day. This morning after Ken and I braved the elements I arrived home to build a fire. It lifted the house to a livable level for the whole day, thanks once again to Jerry for bringing such excellent wood. I made a hearty breakfast of steel cut oats, a half slice of my homemade bread, a sausage patty and grapes and strawberries.
After breakfast I settled in to work and have written two reports today, both were due and have been emailed out. Another waits to be written but after caring for the little girls in the morning I'm off to Stockton to see two properties, then quickly return to write one of them up to email out in the afternoon. Then on Tuesday I'm off again to see properties in Sacramento and Fairfield as well as Hayward. Not at all close to each other.
It is nice to have work and to be able to complete it on time. Its a sort of forced discipline and frankly I like it, I value it and I'm enjoying work again.
Next Sunday will be a very special day, Kallie is turning 2 years old and celebrating her day will be very special. What a delight she has turned out to be, reminds me so much of her grandmother, nearly always pleasant, positive, happy and stubborn too.
Well for now I'm heading to bed. Early for once I hope unless I am waylaid as I walk to the bedroom from the office. It happens sometimes and two hours later I stagger to bed.
Love
tim
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Ryan is now a doctor!
Dear Friends and Family,
What an exciting day for the Whitted family. This morning at 10 am the service began in which Ryan graduated from 4 long years as a MD. The service took place at the beautiful Mondavi center on the UC Davis campus. It was a beautiful service and lasted for nearly 2 and 1/2 hours. There were 90 graduates and they are going into every speciality there is and around the country for their next step. Ryan heads to San Diego and then Tenn. where he will attend Vanderbilt University. He was very happy to have made this milestone and his parents were both jazzed too. Pam's mother and sister were there from Chicago, Bill's mom, sister and nephew and nieces were there. Other friends attended as well.
After the service was over we met at PF Changs on J street for an excellent lunch and more people joined us there. It was a happy group and the cake was both delicious and beautifully decorated.
I finally headed home around 5 pm and encountered rain as I drove down 5. This evening I've been doing laundry and the dryer is still making scratching noises as the drum turns. After all the work I can't believe it is still creating racket. At least I sort of know what to do about it now. It is not the same loud screech as before but it is still not quiet, this is just round 1. It will be quiet before I'm completed with it.
Once I got home and settled this afternoon I made a fire and kept it going all evening. The weather was cold, windy and a fire was great. I made popcorn, a little personal bag, a hot drink and watched the Good Wife, CSI Miami until I caught up. One personal note I will mention. Bill's best friend Stu who I've met many times over the years at gathering with Bill and the kids was there at the graduation service today. With him was his new wife of just a week. As I observed them interact I found it interesting that after caring for his wife for years and who cancer finally took away from him, a time of several years of being on his own, that using the Internet he found his new wife. Now I've got to say she would not have been my choice but that was not the point, I think I've been spoiled by having 36 years with Nan and then being surrounded by really terrific ladies, I no longer am willing to settle just to have someone live here. Either they are young at heart, sharp mentally, have a huge sense of humor and be able to keep up in conversations or they need NOT apply. Being alone is not so terrible that one has to sentence himself or herself to a boring relationship.
It will be very interesting in the months and years ahead to see what develops but life is really pretty exciting right now. I get great joy from watching the kidos develop, learn new phrases, words, behaviors, I love the feedback that I as Papa get from them. In this world right now my biggest admirers are my two dogs, Starr and Lady, they are at the door waiting, they jump up and confirm they are delighted to have me home. Then there are the kidos, Kallie runs at full speed and crashes into my legs saying Papa, Papa and I scoop her up and hold her. Keanna comes out the gate after school filled with adventures to share and so glad to see me, Timothy runs across his porch and looks down yelling Papa. Now that is great stuff. To get to be in their lives and render occasional assistance, well that is very good stuff. If you have grandchildren you know of what I speak, if not these words are just babble, just wait, your turn is coming and it is totally wonderful. Nan's biggest regret was not leaving me, it was leaving the little ones that she had looked forward to for so long and I'm biggest regret is that she didn't get to be here longer to enjoy them even more.
I would appeal to those of you who may be in the doldrums right now, sort of bored with life, feeling like you are stuck in a rut, perhaps you need a vacation, some time in nature, should you join a gym? start hitting the pavement again, use the phone more to reach out to friends and family. I'm pretty sure that good things do not usually come knocking, instead I think we have to go make good things happen, we need to refill the test tube that characterized our friendships. Unless we fill them up with time spent the tube starts to get lower and lower until it is empty and the friendship is passe, gone, finished, kaput, history....... Its hard work to love people, to listen to them, to care enough to really be there for them.
May I encourage you to get up, get started and do the right thing today, make a list, include people on the list, reach reach reach out of your shell and touch others with your love, your gifts, you support.
Love
Tim
What an exciting day for the Whitted family. This morning at 10 am the service began in which Ryan graduated from 4 long years as a MD. The service took place at the beautiful Mondavi center on the UC Davis campus. It was a beautiful service and lasted for nearly 2 and 1/2 hours. There were 90 graduates and they are going into every speciality there is and around the country for their next step. Ryan heads to San Diego and then Tenn. where he will attend Vanderbilt University. He was very happy to have made this milestone and his parents were both jazzed too. Pam's mother and sister were there from Chicago, Bill's mom, sister and nephew and nieces were there. Other friends attended as well.
After the service was over we met at PF Changs on J street for an excellent lunch and more people joined us there. It was a happy group and the cake was both delicious and beautifully decorated.
I finally headed home around 5 pm and encountered rain as I drove down 5. This evening I've been doing laundry and the dryer is still making scratching noises as the drum turns. After all the work I can't believe it is still creating racket. At least I sort of know what to do about it now. It is not the same loud screech as before but it is still not quiet, this is just round 1. It will be quiet before I'm completed with it.
Once I got home and settled this afternoon I made a fire and kept it going all evening. The weather was cold, windy and a fire was great. I made popcorn, a little personal bag, a hot drink and watched the Good Wife, CSI Miami until I caught up. One personal note I will mention. Bill's best friend Stu who I've met many times over the years at gathering with Bill and the kids was there at the graduation service today. With him was his new wife of just a week. As I observed them interact I found it interesting that after caring for his wife for years and who cancer finally took away from him, a time of several years of being on his own, that using the Internet he found his new wife. Now I've got to say she would not have been my choice but that was not the point, I think I've been spoiled by having 36 years with Nan and then being surrounded by really terrific ladies, I no longer am willing to settle just to have someone live here. Either they are young at heart, sharp mentally, have a huge sense of humor and be able to keep up in conversations or they need NOT apply. Being alone is not so terrible that one has to sentence himself or herself to a boring relationship.
It will be very interesting in the months and years ahead to see what develops but life is really pretty exciting right now. I get great joy from watching the kidos develop, learn new phrases, words, behaviors, I love the feedback that I as Papa get from them. In this world right now my biggest admirers are my two dogs, Starr and Lady, they are at the door waiting, they jump up and confirm they are delighted to have me home. Then there are the kidos, Kallie runs at full speed and crashes into my legs saying Papa, Papa and I scoop her up and hold her. Keanna comes out the gate after school filled with adventures to share and so glad to see me, Timothy runs across his porch and looks down yelling Papa. Now that is great stuff. To get to be in their lives and render occasional assistance, well that is very good stuff. If you have grandchildren you know of what I speak, if not these words are just babble, just wait, your turn is coming and it is totally wonderful. Nan's biggest regret was not leaving me, it was leaving the little ones that she had looked forward to for so long and I'm biggest regret is that she didn't get to be here longer to enjoy them even more.
I would appeal to those of you who may be in the doldrums right now, sort of bored with life, feeling like you are stuck in a rut, perhaps you need a vacation, some time in nature, should you join a gym? start hitting the pavement again, use the phone more to reach out to friends and family. I'm pretty sure that good things do not usually come knocking, instead I think we have to go make good things happen, we need to refill the test tube that characterized our friendships. Unless we fill them up with time spent the tube starts to get lower and lower until it is empty and the friendship is passe, gone, finished, kaput, history....... Its hard work to love people, to listen to them, to care enough to really be there for them.
May I encourage you to get up, get started and do the right thing today, make a list, include people on the list, reach reach reach out of your shell and touch others with your love, your gifts, you support.
Love
Tim
Friday, May 21, 2010
Hard charging week, now some peace and quiet
Keanna's latest masterpiece
Dear Family and Friends,
At long last this week draws to a close. For just coming back from vacation I've been amazingly busy and productive. I've enjoyed a week of success and accomplishments, time with the girls, spin class, rebuilt the clothes dryer, produced several appraisals, inspected properties, committed to a new web site, joined several more management companies and seen God's hand in it all.
This morning I grabbed the chance to take the 3 mile walk even though Ken had meetings and could not join me. I told myself that before I could work on the dryer, it lay in many pieces all over the hallway, that I had to complete the appraisal that was due today. So I did just that and once it was done, emailed out and signed out then I turned to the dryer. It did take one more trip to town for a an e clip. Then I started to assemble it, some of the parts were not easy to fit back together and it took some time to get it all lined up. Imagine my disappointment when I finally started it only to discover it still made some noises. It sort of rumbles now but perhaps when loaded with clothes it will be quiet once again.
Just now I'm back from a delightful dinner with Kallie, Keanna and Nikki at La Villa out in Bethel Island. Great food, reasonable prices and an enjoyable time.
Tomorrow morning I have the high privilege of witnessing Ryan Whitted's graduation from medical school at UC Davis. How proud we are all of his accomplishments and progress.
I am very grateful to our loving Lord for this week and for the new courage He has given me, for the hope and optimism. There is much to like about life.
Love
Tim
Thursday, May 20, 2010
The roll continues......
Good evening
I'm just in from a very long day of work and fun, just kidding about the fun part.
I was startled to see a little box at my door early this morning. It was the parts I ordered yesterday afternoon from Fresno, talk about fast. I had planned to work on the dryer tonight but I'm tired through and through so it can wait.
This morning I finally faced the piles of paper that had been collecting for months. I was working in this valley between piles of paper, all important items but put off. So this was the day and most of it was out of date, could be thrown away or multiple bills for the same small account. So I write checks, paid DMV for two of my vehicles on line, paid IRS payment on line too instead of fighting the mails, finally shipped out a form to Lodi for a duplicate marriage license which I need to collect Nan's retirement. Its a tiny amount each month but I can use tiny amounts too. It felt good to finally get to the bottom of a very tall stack.
At 1 pm today I met with Bob Okamoto and have decided to move ahead with a comprehensive web site which will market the company through the search engines. It will have about 7 pages and allows potential clients to see who Steve and I are as well as order appraisals, text questions or comments to us. I have long considered doing something like this but Bob is an expert on how to reach clients as an appraiser and has worked with appraisers for some time. We met at Starbucks and after our meeting I drove to Men's Warehouse to return the $71 shirt I purchased to do the wedding in. On that day that I bought the shirt I cam home and found the same shirt already in my closet so I made a decision, I didn't need to be out another $71 for a shirt. Today I took it back.
As many of you who know me well can tell it has become much easier for me to make decisions than it has been for the past 3 years. I feel so battered by the events that led to losing Nan that I could hardly hold my head up. Now for reasons that I partially understand things have changed drastically. The trip was a real threshold in my life. I am more at peace with who I am than I've been for years. Frankly if you don't like me, tough. I happen to like me, I know I have gifts, abilities and am still quite able to prosper and accomplish things. I will say that I'm definitely going to expand my circle of friends and reach out to a different kind of person than in the past.
This morning in an email from Bob and Carrol I learned that Carrol is having to once again take some Chemo as her numbers are once again high enough that they need to be controlled if possible. This Chemo is something she can do at home and appears to be very manageable. If anyone can cope and work through things it's Bob and Carrol. Their story is a very beautiful one, their life long marriage amazing. How I admire these people and I know they appreciate our prayers as they face this new chapter in their lives.
So my friends, enjoy your evening or morning, this is a wonderful cool time of the year and all too soon the heat will hit. This afternoon as I inspected homes in Modesto and then Riverbank I found the air pleasant, the home beautiful and the comps nearby. I praise the Lord for work.
Love to all
tim
I'm just in from a very long day of work and fun, just kidding about the fun part.
I was startled to see a little box at my door early this morning. It was the parts I ordered yesterday afternoon from Fresno, talk about fast. I had planned to work on the dryer tonight but I'm tired through and through so it can wait.
This morning I finally faced the piles of paper that had been collecting for months. I was working in this valley between piles of paper, all important items but put off. So this was the day and most of it was out of date, could be thrown away or multiple bills for the same small account. So I write checks, paid DMV for two of my vehicles on line, paid IRS payment on line too instead of fighting the mails, finally shipped out a form to Lodi for a duplicate marriage license which I need to collect Nan's retirement. Its a tiny amount each month but I can use tiny amounts too. It felt good to finally get to the bottom of a very tall stack.
At 1 pm today I met with Bob Okamoto and have decided to move ahead with a comprehensive web site which will market the company through the search engines. It will have about 7 pages and allows potential clients to see who Steve and I are as well as order appraisals, text questions or comments to us. I have long considered doing something like this but Bob is an expert on how to reach clients as an appraiser and has worked with appraisers for some time. We met at Starbucks and after our meeting I drove to Men's Warehouse to return the $71 shirt I purchased to do the wedding in. On that day that I bought the shirt I cam home and found the same shirt already in my closet so I made a decision, I didn't need to be out another $71 for a shirt. Today I took it back.
As many of you who know me well can tell it has become much easier for me to make decisions than it has been for the past 3 years. I feel so battered by the events that led to losing Nan that I could hardly hold my head up. Now for reasons that I partially understand things have changed drastically. The trip was a real threshold in my life. I am more at peace with who I am than I've been for years. Frankly if you don't like me, tough. I happen to like me, I know I have gifts, abilities and am still quite able to prosper and accomplish things. I will say that I'm definitely going to expand my circle of friends and reach out to a different kind of person than in the past.
This morning in an email from Bob and Carrol I learned that Carrol is having to once again take some Chemo as her numbers are once again high enough that they need to be controlled if possible. This Chemo is something she can do at home and appears to be very manageable. If anyone can cope and work through things it's Bob and Carrol. Their story is a very beautiful one, their life long marriage amazing. How I admire these people and I know they appreciate our prayers as they face this new chapter in their lives.
So my friends, enjoy your evening or morning, this is a wonderful cool time of the year and all too soon the heat will hit. This afternoon as I inspected homes in Modesto and then Riverbank I found the air pleasant, the home beautiful and the comps nearby. I praise the Lord for work.
Love to all
tim
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Making the best of a gray day.
Good evening
Another early morning and the bliss of seeing little ones wake to the day, Kallie wakes up more happy than Keanna but both quickly got ready for breakfast and then transport to their day time destinations. They are happy clever girls who love each other but each has her own personality totally.
After the girls were delivered I then inspected a local home, collected a check, drove to Brentwood where I collected yet another check and then came back to set up orders and prepare for picking up Keanna at 12:45. She came out full of life and chatting with friends, she is a total social creature and hugs kids and waves. Once in the van we headed for McDonalds where they totally messed up our order and I ended up with two drinks I never ordered but I think I paid for. We made a deposit at the bank, a quick trip home and then we were off to a facility where kids go and play on inflatable slides etc. It was a girls scout adventure. Deborah agreed to watch Keanna so I slipped downtown and picked up parts for the dryer. In the process I discovered a very nice little appliance store and delightful people.
After picking up Keanna I drove her home, rushed home to change clothes and went back to Spin class. Oh boy that was a work out but nothing like it used to be. While I can't keep up with the class all the time I never stop spinning and sweat heavily through the process. Afterwards I feel great and very glad I did it. I came home, put on the parts on the front of the dryer, baked a potato which I smothered in non fat cottage cheese, a sliced tomato and veges left over from yesterday.
This evening I've been watching some NCIS Los Angeles and relaxing a bit. Now its time for bed again.
Tomorrow is yet another very busy day with work to do, promised to keep and appointments to be honored. Life is pretty good, sure would be nice to share it with someone who also is into excitement, quiet mornings sipping mocha, watching ducks and geese as they work the waters, enjoying life to the fullest. At this point its sort of up to God as I don't really know how to even start searching. But at least I'll have a quiet dryer to offer someone! Not bad huh. To tell you how much things have changed. Instead of just dragging myself into the house after spin class tonight I vacumed the van, Keanna had spilled popcorn accidentally, took out the trash, put both cars away and then came in. Just a different way of living, instead of seeing how little I can get by doing now I'm seeing how much good I can pack into each day.
Love to all,
Tim
Another early morning and the bliss of seeing little ones wake to the day, Kallie wakes up more happy than Keanna but both quickly got ready for breakfast and then transport to their day time destinations. They are happy clever girls who love each other but each has her own personality totally.
After the girls were delivered I then inspected a local home, collected a check, drove to Brentwood where I collected yet another check and then came back to set up orders and prepare for picking up Keanna at 12:45. She came out full of life and chatting with friends, she is a total social creature and hugs kids and waves. Once in the van we headed for McDonalds where they totally messed up our order and I ended up with two drinks I never ordered but I think I paid for. We made a deposit at the bank, a quick trip home and then we were off to a facility where kids go and play on inflatable slides etc. It was a girls scout adventure. Deborah agreed to watch Keanna so I slipped downtown and picked up parts for the dryer. In the process I discovered a very nice little appliance store and delightful people.
After picking up Keanna I drove her home, rushed home to change clothes and went back to Spin class. Oh boy that was a work out but nothing like it used to be. While I can't keep up with the class all the time I never stop spinning and sweat heavily through the process. Afterwards I feel great and very glad I did it. I came home, put on the parts on the front of the dryer, baked a potato which I smothered in non fat cottage cheese, a sliced tomato and veges left over from yesterday.
This evening I've been watching some NCIS Los Angeles and relaxing a bit. Now its time for bed again.
Tomorrow is yet another very busy day with work to do, promised to keep and appointments to be honored. Life is pretty good, sure would be nice to share it with someone who also is into excitement, quiet mornings sipping mocha, watching ducks and geese as they work the waters, enjoying life to the fullest. At this point its sort of up to God as I don't really know how to even start searching. But at least I'll have a quiet dryer to offer someone! Not bad huh. To tell you how much things have changed. Instead of just dragging myself into the house after spin class tonight I vacumed the van, Keanna had spilled popcorn accidentally, took out the trash, put both cars away and then came in. Just a different way of living, instead of seeing how little I can get by doing now I'm seeing how much good I can pack into each day.
Love to all,
Tim
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
An excellent kind of tired........
Good evening,
9:25 and I've just completed the second writeup today. This morning I was at Nikki and Steve's place at 6:27. The kidos did not get up until 7:47 and both woke up ready to go. After breakfast we raced to the van to get Keanna to school on time.
Once the kids were in place I came home, did quick research and headed out for a property in Brentwood for a divorce appraisal. Once again I was saddened by the ravages of a divorce. I know the effects since my folks split when I was 11 and frankly it took years to recover for me. I firmly believe it is better to mend and care for relationships rather than divorce.
After completing the appraisal I headed home via Starbucks and a decaf mocha, oh so good and filling. It lasted all the way home and for awhile after I started to work.
Today I did a CIR, thats when we go back and reinspect a property that had problems that needed fixing. It pays a whole $75 for a second trip back but its part of the business.
Then I settled down to write the relo that was due today. That took several hours. For me to complete important pieces of work brings great satisfaction so I was feeling pretty good. And as the day moved along three orders came in too, one from a new client, Sierra Pacific Mortgage, they had just approved my being on their list today, that is huge good news. Yes I did have to pay a $150 fee to be considered and to run a back ground check but one order at $400 certainly covers it.
Mid afternoon I started writing another appraisal that was also due today and a few minutes ago I shipped it out. Great news!
I'm seeing one in the morning that will have a check, then I'm going to Brentwood to pick up a check for the one I saw today, checks certainly help and I'm thankful for them.
Now its bedtime. Early this evening Nikki called to let me know about an open house at Keanna's school. So after having a nice salad with Ray and Lois at the bargain night Aladino's pizza I went and enjoyed seeing Keanna's room. What fun to get to be with the family and then we ended up a Boardwalk for dinner as a family.
So there is a lot to tuck away as nice memories today, accomplishments, family, living life to the full.
Love
tim
9:25 and I've just completed the second writeup today. This morning I was at Nikki and Steve's place at 6:27. The kidos did not get up until 7:47 and both woke up ready to go. After breakfast we raced to the van to get Keanna to school on time.
Once the kids were in place I came home, did quick research and headed out for a property in Brentwood for a divorce appraisal. Once again I was saddened by the ravages of a divorce. I know the effects since my folks split when I was 11 and frankly it took years to recover for me. I firmly believe it is better to mend and care for relationships rather than divorce.
After completing the appraisal I headed home via Starbucks and a decaf mocha, oh so good and filling. It lasted all the way home and for awhile after I started to work.
Today I did a CIR, thats when we go back and reinspect a property that had problems that needed fixing. It pays a whole $75 for a second trip back but its part of the business.
Then I settled down to write the relo that was due today. That took several hours. For me to complete important pieces of work brings great satisfaction so I was feeling pretty good. And as the day moved along three orders came in too, one from a new client, Sierra Pacific Mortgage, they had just approved my being on their list today, that is huge good news. Yes I did have to pay a $150 fee to be considered and to run a back ground check but one order at $400 certainly covers it.
Mid afternoon I started writing another appraisal that was also due today and a few minutes ago I shipped it out. Great news!
I'm seeing one in the morning that will have a check, then I'm going to Brentwood to pick up a check for the one I saw today, checks certainly help and I'm thankful for them.
Now its bedtime. Early this evening Nikki called to let me know about an open house at Keanna's school. So after having a nice salad with Ray and Lois at the bargain night Aladino's pizza I went and enjoyed seeing Keanna's room. What fun to get to be with the family and then we ended up a Boardwalk for dinner as a family.
So there is a lot to tuck away as nice memories today, accomplishments, family, living life to the full.
Love
tim
Monday, May 17, 2010
Caring for the girls
Dear Family and Friends,
The day started with a quick trip over to Steve and Nikki's house. Nikki was already gone to her work for the department of energy for the federal government and Steve was about to leave for his day of work as well. I settled into the recliner and checked out the morning news, nothing exciting there, just more bad news, traffic piled up and rain coming.
Soon I heard the first indications on the monitor that Kallie was waking. She wakes up so happy and I could hear her playing in her crib. Eventually I took a bottle of milk up and spoke to her in the semi darkness for a bit. She was happy to see her Papa. Later I returned to snatch her out of the crib, change her diaper and get her dressed for the day. She does a very good job of pulling on her own shirt and even tried to help with the little socs.
About then Keanna came to the door and talked happily to Kallie after which we all headed downstairs. I made breakfast and then it was time to load up. None of these things happen quickly when you have two little ones. I quickly delivered Kallie to her sitters and then took Keanna to her school. Everything had gone great.
Then it was back to the office for quick research and a relocation appraisal in Brentwood. Then it was back to the office after picking up a bunch of meds at CVS and brief stop at Taco Bell for a burrito.
Once home I attempted to make an appointment for a property in Oakdale. The report is due tomorrow and the appointment came through so I quickly loaded the car and headed out. Everything went fine and after shooting 8 comps I headed directly to Brentwood and Weight Watchers. I set myself up by saying that if I'd not gained more than 5 lbs on the Costa Rica trip I would be OK. Turns out I had lost an other.6 lb so now I'm down 14.6 pounds. I continue to feel great but I did have a nasty bout of coughing today, bummer.
Tomorrow I'm out again to see something in the morning and then come back to write things up that are due tomorrow. Today was an overcast dreary day that can sap ones enjoyment yet its OK. The house is tidy, the dogs are happy I'm back, I'm eating the right things, feeling great and can't wait to get out and meet new people.
I just completed a book on the IPOD, what a great device and my friend Lois has put about 18 books on the IPOD so I have no trouble finding the next one to listen to. I've just completed listening to an Alex Cross book this afternoon and they are always well written and affirm family as in the story he is close to his kids and mother who lives with them.
So good night my friends,
Love to all
Tim
The day started with a quick trip over to Steve and Nikki's house. Nikki was already gone to her work for the department of energy for the federal government and Steve was about to leave for his day of work as well. I settled into the recliner and checked out the morning news, nothing exciting there, just more bad news, traffic piled up and rain coming.
Soon I heard the first indications on the monitor that Kallie was waking. She wakes up so happy and I could hear her playing in her crib. Eventually I took a bottle of milk up and spoke to her in the semi darkness for a bit. She was happy to see her Papa. Later I returned to snatch her out of the crib, change her diaper and get her dressed for the day. She does a very good job of pulling on her own shirt and even tried to help with the little socs.
About then Keanna came to the door and talked happily to Kallie after which we all headed downstairs. I made breakfast and then it was time to load up. None of these things happen quickly when you have two little ones. I quickly delivered Kallie to her sitters and then took Keanna to her school. Everything had gone great.
Then it was back to the office for quick research and a relocation appraisal in Brentwood. Then it was back to the office after picking up a bunch of meds at CVS and brief stop at Taco Bell for a burrito.
Once home I attempted to make an appointment for a property in Oakdale. The report is due tomorrow and the appointment came through so I quickly loaded the car and headed out. Everything went fine and after shooting 8 comps I headed directly to Brentwood and Weight Watchers. I set myself up by saying that if I'd not gained more than 5 lbs on the Costa Rica trip I would be OK. Turns out I had lost an other.6 lb so now I'm down 14.6 pounds. I continue to feel great but I did have a nasty bout of coughing today, bummer.
Tomorrow I'm out again to see something in the morning and then come back to write things up that are due tomorrow. Today was an overcast dreary day that can sap ones enjoyment yet its OK. The house is tidy, the dogs are happy I'm back, I'm eating the right things, feeling great and can't wait to get out and meet new people.
I just completed a book on the IPOD, what a great device and my friend Lois has put about 18 books on the IPOD so I have no trouble finding the next one to listen to. I've just completed listening to an Alex Cross book this afternoon and they are always well written and affirm family as in the story he is close to his kids and mother who lives with them.
So good night my friends,
Love to all
Tim
Sunday, May 16, 2010
I'm on a roll finally and enjoying it!
Good evening,
At this point in the evening I'm wrapping up for the day. I have to be at the kids house at 6:45 in the morning to care for the kidos and get them to the sitter and school at 8:30. It will be a nice challenge to work with them again. When Keanna was here for the sleep over she woke up ill. My house just seems to have too many dog hairs and bad stuff for her. She has been ill all day yesterday and was still lying low today. That makes me feel really awful, my house makes her ill. Its a problem that needs to be addressed.
I woke this morning to a call from Ken, he was up and ready to walk so I jumped up startling the dogs, dressed in shorts and tee shirt and headed out. I've not enjoyed a walk this much in a long time, not aches and pains, just pleasure at stretching the limbs again. Once I got home I was feeling so great I looked around to see what I could work on next. While I was watching a DVR recording of Mentalist from last week I cleaned up the kitchen, unloaded the dishwasher, started a loaf of bread baking, loaded the dishwasher and decided to try to clean the white table I had moved to the kitchen deck, I had some luck with that, its pretty dirty and stained. Then I fried eggs and made toast of the slim breads that are tasty but have few carbs and had strawberries. I took time to wash all the berries and move them to a tupperware along with all the grapes we had purchased. Much easier to grab fruit quickly this way. As I worked the bread began to gift the whole house a wonderful aroma. After breakfast I decided it was time to take on the dryer. For months it has been emitting a horrible squeak on every cycle as it does its work, even the closed door does not mitigate the horrible sounds. So I pulled it out and with the vacuum at hand began to removed parts, what I found was nothing short of amazing. Why that dryer had not started a fire I have no idea. Layers of lint were two inches deep on the back of the drum just above where an open flame provides heat to dry the clothes. Once I got inside I was sort of lost, enter the Internet. I put in GE Dryer squeak in the search line and discovered many entries with solutions. One had photos of each step to take to remove the drum and replace the rear bearing, others pointed out the glides that can be damaged in time. So I removed the drum after removing the front and opening the top. One of the glides that is supposed to be covered with a Teflon surface was torn into. So I removed the glides.
This afternoon with dryer parts lining the hall I headed out to do an appraisal in Patterson, a small town that is about an hour down Freeway 5. This poor little town has been clobbered with the downturn in values. The little house was perfect and sold for over $300 last time, this time is is in contract for $137,500 and I could not even support that price with closed sales nearby. Then it was off to Modesto to do a follow up inspection but I found a new padlock on the door so access was denied for today. A stop at Home Depot failed to produce the parts I needed so I came on home and set about writing the report. Now its done and I'm heading to bed.
How long this wave of energy and optimism will last I don't know but I'm going to ride it as far as I can. I'm very very thankful for the trip and the new perspectives it has given me on life in general.
So I'm sending love to all,
Tim
PS a special thanks to Lois and Ray, LeAnn and Ken for keeping an eye out while I was gone. They did a great job and also a special thanks to Loree and Steve who watched over the office and helped the main computer get back on line.
At this point in the evening I'm wrapping up for the day. I have to be at the kids house at 6:45 in the morning to care for the kidos and get them to the sitter and school at 8:30. It will be a nice challenge to work with them again. When Keanna was here for the sleep over she woke up ill. My house just seems to have too many dog hairs and bad stuff for her. She has been ill all day yesterday and was still lying low today. That makes me feel really awful, my house makes her ill. Its a problem that needs to be addressed.
I woke this morning to a call from Ken, he was up and ready to walk so I jumped up startling the dogs, dressed in shorts and tee shirt and headed out. I've not enjoyed a walk this much in a long time, not aches and pains, just pleasure at stretching the limbs again. Once I got home I was feeling so great I looked around to see what I could work on next. While I was watching a DVR recording of Mentalist from last week I cleaned up the kitchen, unloaded the dishwasher, started a loaf of bread baking, loaded the dishwasher and decided to try to clean the white table I had moved to the kitchen deck, I had some luck with that, its pretty dirty and stained. Then I fried eggs and made toast of the slim breads that are tasty but have few carbs and had strawberries. I took time to wash all the berries and move them to a tupperware along with all the grapes we had purchased. Much easier to grab fruit quickly this way. As I worked the bread began to gift the whole house a wonderful aroma. After breakfast I decided it was time to take on the dryer. For months it has been emitting a horrible squeak on every cycle as it does its work, even the closed door does not mitigate the horrible sounds. So I pulled it out and with the vacuum at hand began to removed parts, what I found was nothing short of amazing. Why that dryer had not started a fire I have no idea. Layers of lint were two inches deep on the back of the drum just above where an open flame provides heat to dry the clothes. Once I got inside I was sort of lost, enter the Internet. I put in GE Dryer squeak in the search line and discovered many entries with solutions. One had photos of each step to take to remove the drum and replace the rear bearing, others pointed out the glides that can be damaged in time. So I removed the drum after removing the front and opening the top. One of the glides that is supposed to be covered with a Teflon surface was torn into. So I removed the glides.
This afternoon with dryer parts lining the hall I headed out to do an appraisal in Patterson, a small town that is about an hour down Freeway 5. This poor little town has been clobbered with the downturn in values. The little house was perfect and sold for over $300 last time, this time is is in contract for $137,500 and I could not even support that price with closed sales nearby. Then it was off to Modesto to do a follow up inspection but I found a new padlock on the door so access was denied for today. A stop at Home Depot failed to produce the parts I needed so I came on home and set about writing the report. Now its done and I'm heading to bed.
How long this wave of energy and optimism will last I don't know but I'm going to ride it as far as I can. I'm very very thankful for the trip and the new perspectives it has given me on life in general.
So I'm sending love to all,
Tim
PS a special thanks to Lois and Ray, LeAnn and Ken for keeping an eye out while I was gone. They did a great job and also a special thanks to Loree and Steve who watched over the office and helped the main computer get back on line.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Keanna spends the night, Kallie goes to Sabbath School, Papa smiles!
Dear Family and Friends,
I'm just in from mowing the lawn, the sun sets fast but my yard is so small I can mow it by the porch light. Instead of my usual Sabbath nap I spent my time on the back deck playing with flowers, drip systems, moving table about and enjoying a perfect day.
I cannot begin to explain how good I feel since coming home from the trip. I am all for humid weather and tropical travel if the end result is to feel this good, to be this positive and to be able to move freely without joint pain, with almost no hunger at all and with a huge desire to mix it up with life again. In some ways it seems like the time of mourning has passed and in spite of huge obstacles with slow work, bills I feel like I'm ready to live again.
When I got home after dropping Kallie off as I changed my clothes I found myself sorting tee shirts, shorts that have not fit in years, organizing winter clothes to the back of the closet, putting away sweaters and in a few minutes things were in much better order. Its not like I plan to wade into projects, they just sort of jump out at me and instead of putting them off lately I just attack.
I would like to report I had a nice lunch but I can't remember what I had, must have been real significant or not. If I have one word of advice to people seeking to feel better, dump weight, be able to move more and easier its drink water, not a glass but a bucket and just keep drinking, Keep bottles everyone you might be and just grab the one nearest and drink, skip the soft drinks when you can, avoid the sugar drinks totally and drink the water, after a bit you get used to it and you crave it. I hate water usually but I've found these wonderful bottles that come in boxes of 24 at CostCo, they have blue lids that can be closed so there is no leaking if they fall over, they fit in your hand easily. Drink drink drink.
Right now the dryer is driving me nuts, every rotation of the drum puts out a horrible squeak, I mean mind numbing even with the door closed so I guess you know what I'm going to tackle next, out comes the drying from the wall and in goes the grease or WD 40. This noise has got to go.
I've never benefited more from a short vacation than this one, the timing, the interaction with people, the high level of activity, the outstanding fruit plates everywhere, best pineapple I've ever had and lots of it at all meals.
I sincerely hope things are progressing well for you in your life. No matter how old or young you are you can reach out and take control, the Lord is waiting for you to go for it and then the adventure starts again.
I'm going to share some photos taken by Rick Carino of the wedding. I want to share them so you can see just how beautiful the setting was. It was unforgettable.
Love to all,
Tim
Friday, May 14, 2010
A solid day that ends with joy, Keanna is here for a sleep over.
Good evening
Keanna is finally resting in her mom's old bed, I somehow fail to get her to bed as soon when I'm supposed to. Perhaps it goes with visiting Papa's house.
I woke at 6:30 this morning after finally going to sleep at 2 this morning. I've not been sleepy all day and have been amazingly productive. Orders are set up, bills paid, an appraisal written, appointments made and on a person level, the floors are mopped, all the laundry from the trip is completed and hung up, the sheets are clean and the grocery shopping is completed. Keanna offered to make the shopping list and it was so cute. Using her best spelling and sounding it out we took our list to the store and found all the things we needed. $71 later we strolled to the car. I showed her how to test veges to see if they are ripe, she selected tomatoes, avocado and grapes. We had a great time finding our way around the store. Her ability with the language is amazing to me and her side comments are just funny.
Now finally she sleeps, what a kid, changing right before my eyes. I'm gone a week and it seems she is older and wiser.
So a day that started with almost panic, the state I found myself in this morning when I first woke up gradually changed, it changed as I began to take action. There is a time for thinking but there is also a time to set the thinking and rethinking aside and begin the actions. I jumped out of bed, stripped the sheets, prepared the laundry baskets, came down and grabbed the mop, enjoyed my steel cut oats at nearly noon today, was too busy to eat before that.
Same with my desk. Orders were everywhere and needed to be logged and the files set up, contracts needed to be downloaded and printed so I set to work. The phones were working for a change and rang from time to time with business related calls. The desk is sort of cleared and there is order from the chaos of last night.
And now its Sabbath, a time to set aside the pressure and challenges of running a business and just enjoy the kidos, enjoy Sabbath School and be very thankful to God for a safe and highly enjoyable week.
Love
tim
Keanna is finally resting in her mom's old bed, I somehow fail to get her to bed as soon when I'm supposed to. Perhaps it goes with visiting Papa's house.
I woke at 6:30 this morning after finally going to sleep at 2 this morning. I've not been sleepy all day and have been amazingly productive. Orders are set up, bills paid, an appraisal written, appointments made and on a person level, the floors are mopped, all the laundry from the trip is completed and hung up, the sheets are clean and the grocery shopping is completed. Keanna offered to make the shopping list and it was so cute. Using her best spelling and sounding it out we took our list to the store and found all the things we needed. $71 later we strolled to the car. I showed her how to test veges to see if they are ripe, she selected tomatoes, avocado and grapes. We had a great time finding our way around the store. Her ability with the language is amazing to me and her side comments are just funny.
Now finally she sleeps, what a kid, changing right before my eyes. I'm gone a week and it seems she is older and wiser.
So a day that started with almost panic, the state I found myself in this morning when I first woke up gradually changed, it changed as I began to take action. There is a time for thinking but there is also a time to set the thinking and rethinking aside and begin the actions. I jumped out of bed, stripped the sheets, prepared the laundry baskets, came down and grabbed the mop, enjoyed my steel cut oats at nearly noon today, was too busy to eat before that.
Same with my desk. Orders were everywhere and needed to be logged and the files set up, contracts needed to be downloaded and printed so I set to work. The phones were working for a change and rang from time to time with business related calls. The desk is sort of cleared and there is order from the chaos of last night.
And now its Sabbath, a time to set aside the pressure and challenges of running a business and just enjoy the kidos, enjoy Sabbath School and be very thankful to God for a safe and highly enjoyable week.
Love
tim
Home again
Hi
Its 1:40 in the morning and I'm finally home. Sylvia was so kind to come meet me at the Dublin station of BART and then take me to my car in Brentwood so its a late night for her as well.
I started the day in San Jose, Costa Rica, enjoyed a slow breakfast at the hotel and then went out to see the sights. At 10 I hired a taxi to take me to the airport which took about 40 minutes. Then the flight to Houston was uneventful and the trip to SF was even more uneventful. I just feel very tired now and very low emotionally. Coming home to this lonely place after being with people is a tough transition. I was really glad to see Sylvia and to have Nikki call to see if I was home yet. I need people I have decided, fun exciting alive people.
Right now I need sleep even more so I'll sign off now and talk more later.
I will say this was a wonderful trip in every way, just wonderful and I've very thankful for it.
Love to all,
changes are coming
Tim
Its 1:40 in the morning and I'm finally home. Sylvia was so kind to come meet me at the Dublin station of BART and then take me to my car in Brentwood so its a late night for her as well.
I started the day in San Jose, Costa Rica, enjoyed a slow breakfast at the hotel and then went out to see the sights. At 10 I hired a taxi to take me to the airport which took about 40 minutes. Then the flight to Houston was uneventful and the trip to SF was even more uneventful. I just feel very tired now and very low emotionally. Coming home to this lonely place after being with people is a tough transition. I was really glad to see Sylvia and to have Nikki call to see if I was home yet. I need people I have decided, fun exciting alive people.
Right now I need sleep even more so I'll sign off now and talk more later.
I will say this was a wonderful trip in every way, just wonderful and I've very thankful for it.
Love to all,
changes are coming
Tim
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
On the way, what a beautiful place Costa Rica is
Dear Family and Friends,
Tonight I'm writing from the lobby of the Presidente Hotel in the heart of San Jose, Costa Rica, a city of perhaps a million people. I'm staying over tonight before heading out on a plane at 12:30 tomorrow for Houston and then one to SFO where I will catch BART for Dublin where I will catch a ride due to the kindness of Sylvia Ahn.
Today we had breakfast at our hillside hotel and then went to town for a little shopping for precious kidos. Then back to the hotel for a snorkeling trip out onto the open ocean. The two young guys piloting the boat were very nice and had decent equipment. I had a very enjoyable time in the ocean for a couple of hours chasing fish and getting burned. I'm pretty tired tonight but was very sad to drive away from the group at around 5 this evening for an eventful trip on two lane roads, slow trucks, a bus accident and a final arrival to find people already in our room.
It is hard to put into words the joy of being with such nice people and I miss them all already. Yet I'm very ready to get home, to see my doggies, my precious family, my helpful neighbors, mow my lawn and get back to work. Steve has been a great help while I've been gone.
So I'm sending Costa Rica greetings to all. How I wish you could come back with you so you could enjoy this very special country, kind people, many pockets of poverty but very clean, hard working, busy people. The rest of the group is traveling on to the volcano region tomorrow where there are hot springs, mountains to climb and more fun to be had. I wish them well as they go.
Love to all you precious friends and family, You are the best there is.
Tim
Tonight I'm writing from the lobby of the Presidente Hotel in the heart of San Jose, Costa Rica, a city of perhaps a million people. I'm staying over tonight before heading out on a plane at 12:30 tomorrow for Houston and then one to SFO where I will catch BART for Dublin where I will catch a ride due to the kindness of Sylvia Ahn.
Today we had breakfast at our hillside hotel and then went to town for a little shopping for precious kidos. Then back to the hotel for a snorkeling trip out onto the open ocean. The two young guys piloting the boat were very nice and had decent equipment. I had a very enjoyable time in the ocean for a couple of hours chasing fish and getting burned. I'm pretty tired tonight but was very sad to drive away from the group at around 5 this evening for an eventful trip on two lane roads, slow trucks, a bus accident and a final arrival to find people already in our room.
It is hard to put into words the joy of being with such nice people and I miss them all already. Yet I'm very ready to get home, to see my doggies, my precious family, my helpful neighbors, mow my lawn and get back to work. Steve has been a great help while I've been gone.
So I'm sending Costa Rica greetings to all. How I wish you could come back with you so you could enjoy this very special country, kind people, many pockets of poverty but very clean, hard working, busy people. The rest of the group is traveling on to the volcano region tomorrow where there are hot springs, mountains to climb and more fun to be had. I wish them well as they go.
Love to all you precious friends and family, You are the best there is.
Tim
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Zipping my way through the rain
Dear Family and Friends
This has been an amazing day. It started as we prepared to move from Jaco to the next location, Manuel Antonio. Tonight we are ensconced in a very beautiful hotel which offers views from many of the rooms. It is constructed on a hillside and offers sweeting view of the Pacific Ocean. The grounds are lush and robust, even now frogs are singing to each other and the night air is finally cool and finally has less humidity.
This morning at around 10 we loaded and drove the hour and a half to this new location. I cannot begin to fully share the job and excitement of being with this highly diverse and accomodating group of individuals. They range from two twins in their teens who are amazing kids. They react well to their parents but each have their own sense of individuality. They are cute kids to sum it up. There are also highly successful business people and seem to enjoy a chance to relax and play, a chance they rarely seem to find time for. Of course there are the parents and they seem to be getting along well in spite of divorces and remarriages. We have these two sisters who are cousins of Melissa the bride. Heather has the most beautiful long hair and is a shy yet very caring person. Her sister is sitting right here as I type so I'll fill you in later with a more complete description. Enough to say she is a pretty amazing person and helps everyone around her enjoy life more. She always looks like she just came from the fashion show and the two huge suitcases holds the key, outfits for every situation! In fact the photos that are with this blog tonight were taken by Ashley. She was kind enough to share some of the hundreds of photos she has taken so you can see a bit of the wedding that we all took part in last night. Thank you Ashley!
This morning I had intended to lie low and try to do some work in the room. I knew the group was heading out on an excursion but I had no intention of going, after all Jason had specifically warned me to NOT do the zipline. Then I found myself looking into Roxanna's face and she basically told me I needed to do this. Well no one can really say NO to Roxanna and live. In a few minutes we found ourselves loaded on small vans flailing down the roads toward the mountain. I had very big reservations about the whole process.
They took away our personal possessions and then we proceeded to the mountain staging area. Once there they strapped us into harnesses that put pressure on special places, get the picture. Then we started to walk up a muddy path, that was when the rain started in ernest. It rained for the next two hours, slowly our clothes became totally saturated and we sloshed up to the beginning point. We were taught how to use our gloved hands as brakes and then we started. With rain stinging our faces we shot down the cable, then used our hands in gloves to slow for the next station. Being heavy made the trip more interesting but I began to enjoy it more and more as we moved from cable to cable. Finally we went down a cable that was 1500 feet long. At the last station we rapelled down to the ground. All of this was accomplished in the pouring rain. Everyone had a incredible time in spite of mud, rain, stress, shaky platforms and rain in the eyes at thirty miles an hour. Once we were through our entire group were wet through and through yet warm due to the temperature.
Once we arrived back at the hotel everyone headed for the showers and dry clothes. We all felt really good about doing the zip line and would probably do it again tomorrow if we could.
This evening we've had a very nice dinner with the friends we have come to enjoy and love. Now I'm sitting in the lobby which is where the wireless internet works writing to you.
Tomorrow afternoon I start my trip home but I'll never forget these wonderful people.
Love to all and keep caring for each other,
Tim
This has been an amazing day. It started as we prepared to move from Jaco to the next location, Manuel Antonio. Tonight we are ensconced in a very beautiful hotel which offers views from many of the rooms. It is constructed on a hillside and offers sweeting view of the Pacific Ocean. The grounds are lush and robust, even now frogs are singing to each other and the night air is finally cool and finally has less humidity.
This morning at around 10 we loaded and drove the hour and a half to this new location. I cannot begin to fully share the job and excitement of being with this highly diverse and accomodating group of individuals. They range from two twins in their teens who are amazing kids. They react well to their parents but each have their own sense of individuality. They are cute kids to sum it up. There are also highly successful business people and seem to enjoy a chance to relax and play, a chance they rarely seem to find time for. Of course there are the parents and they seem to be getting along well in spite of divorces and remarriages. We have these two sisters who are cousins of Melissa the bride. Heather has the most beautiful long hair and is a shy yet very caring person. Her sister is sitting right here as I type so I'll fill you in later with a more complete description. Enough to say she is a pretty amazing person and helps everyone around her enjoy life more. She always looks like she just came from the fashion show and the two huge suitcases holds the key, outfits for every situation! In fact the photos that are with this blog tonight were taken by Ashley. She was kind enough to share some of the hundreds of photos she has taken so you can see a bit of the wedding that we all took part in last night. Thank you Ashley!
This morning I had intended to lie low and try to do some work in the room. I knew the group was heading out on an excursion but I had no intention of going, after all Jason had specifically warned me to NOT do the zipline. Then I found myself looking into Roxanna's face and she basically told me I needed to do this. Well no one can really say NO to Roxanna and live. In a few minutes we found ourselves loaded on small vans flailing down the roads toward the mountain. I had very big reservations about the whole process.
They took away our personal possessions and then we proceeded to the mountain staging area. Once there they strapped us into harnesses that put pressure on special places, get the picture. Then we started to walk up a muddy path, that was when the rain started in ernest. It rained for the next two hours, slowly our clothes became totally saturated and we sloshed up to the beginning point. We were taught how to use our gloved hands as brakes and then we started. With rain stinging our faces we shot down the cable, then used our hands in gloves to slow for the next station. Being heavy made the trip more interesting but I began to enjoy it more and more as we moved from cable to cable. Finally we went down a cable that was 1500 feet long. At the last station we rapelled down to the ground. All of this was accomplished in the pouring rain. Everyone had a incredible time in spite of mud, rain, stress, shaky platforms and rain in the eyes at thirty miles an hour. Once we were through our entire group were wet through and through yet warm due to the temperature.
Once we arrived back at the hotel everyone headed for the showers and dry clothes. We all felt really good about doing the zip line and would probably do it again tomorrow if we could.
This evening we've had a very nice dinner with the friends we have come to enjoy and love. Now I'm sitting in the lobby which is where the wireless internet works writing to you.
Tomorrow afternoon I start my trip home but I'll never forget these wonderful people.
Love to all and keep caring for each other,
The Wedding
Dear Family and Friends
I'm just back from being a part of a very spectacular wedding. Melissa and Ryan had done an outstanding job of planning and the wedding went off without a hitch. A little earlier it was touch and go as a heavy mountain shower hit the resort. We watched in fascination as the shower poured over the mountain and then steam and fog worked its way up from the ocean below. But by the time the wedding took place the skies were nearly clear, the sun setting over the ocean was unbelievable beautiful. The wedding took place in a small area surrounded by columns and the focal point was a tiled infinity pool. I stood in the front of the pool one step away and the bride and groom stood in front of me on a rose petal strewn path the wedding planner had created. There were seats set for the 20 or so guests, the waiters kept us drinking lots of water.
Behind the infinity pool was space but from the seats all that could be seen was the water of the pool and then the ocean hundreds of feet below. The entire resort was amazing and recently constructed of the highest quality materials and with heavy dependance of style and class. The room that Rick and Roxanna had was on the side of the hill with a downsweeping valley which extended all the way down to the ocean bays below. They had a large patio which facilitated the views. Rick and Ryan were busy taking photos with their high quality cameras of birds flying nearby.
I was nervous about conducting the wedding as its been a long time since I did one. The Lord was good to me and everything went exactly as planned. It really was a very beautiful service and the wedding planner asked if I would like to be on her list of wedding speakers. A nice thought.
I have never seen anything even close to the beauty of the place and I should mention that the food served at the dinner afterwards was excellent. They created a pasta plate for me that was the envy of those sitting nearby, it was that good. There was a live band and lots of dancing, I even was dragged onto the dance floor a couple times but having three left feet makes that painful for all and I quickly retreated to my chair.
It was very hot today but due to the cooling effects of the rain the wedding was performed in cooler air. However the reception was very hot and my suit, shirt and tie really took a beating. It was well worth it all.
Wade got here a couple hours after the wedding having obtained a new passport in Houston today. I was going to drive back to San Jose tonight to pick him up but I was talked out of it due to the dangerous roads and conditions at night. So a car brought him from the airport directly to the resort. So tonight Wade is finally here.
It has been a wonderful day, these people are so fun to be around, some are wealthy, some are more like me but everyone is so kind and pleasant. They are fun and this is a great big dose of pleasure for me that I am enjoying to the full. I'm really starting to love life again and I can't wait to bring family to this very special country and to this hotel, its a deal and so special.
So for now I thank those who helped out today in special ways back at the office and I thank God for helping me do a decent job on the service.
Love to all, photos tomorrow I promise.
Tim
I'm just back from being a part of a very spectacular wedding. Melissa and Ryan had done an outstanding job of planning and the wedding went off without a hitch. A little earlier it was touch and go as a heavy mountain shower hit the resort. We watched in fascination as the shower poured over the mountain and then steam and fog worked its way up from the ocean below. But by the time the wedding took place the skies were nearly clear, the sun setting over the ocean was unbelievable beautiful. The wedding took place in a small area surrounded by columns and the focal point was a tiled infinity pool. I stood in the front of the pool one step away and the bride and groom stood in front of me on a rose petal strewn path the wedding planner had created. There were seats set for the 20 or so guests, the waiters kept us drinking lots of water.
Behind the infinity pool was space but from the seats all that could be seen was the water of the pool and then the ocean hundreds of feet below. The entire resort was amazing and recently constructed of the highest quality materials and with heavy dependance of style and class. The room that Rick and Roxanna had was on the side of the hill with a downsweeping valley which extended all the way down to the ocean bays below. They had a large patio which facilitated the views. Rick and Ryan were busy taking photos with their high quality cameras of birds flying nearby.
I was nervous about conducting the wedding as its been a long time since I did one. The Lord was good to me and everything went exactly as planned. It really was a very beautiful service and the wedding planner asked if I would like to be on her list of wedding speakers. A nice thought.
I have never seen anything even close to the beauty of the place and I should mention that the food served at the dinner afterwards was excellent. They created a pasta plate for me that was the envy of those sitting nearby, it was that good. There was a live band and lots of dancing, I even was dragged onto the dance floor a couple times but having three left feet makes that painful for all and I quickly retreated to my chair.
It was very hot today but due to the cooling effects of the rain the wedding was performed in cooler air. However the reception was very hot and my suit, shirt and tie really took a beating. It was well worth it all.
Wade got here a couple hours after the wedding having obtained a new passport in Houston today. I was going to drive back to San Jose tonight to pick him up but I was talked out of it due to the dangerous roads and conditions at night. So a car brought him from the airport directly to the resort. So tonight Wade is finally here.
It has been a wonderful day, these people are so fun to be around, some are wealthy, some are more like me but everyone is so kind and pleasant. They are fun and this is a great big dose of pleasure for me that I am enjoying to the full. I'm really starting to love life again and I can't wait to bring family to this very special country and to this hotel, its a deal and so special.
So for now I thank those who helped out today in special ways back at the office and I thank God for helping me do a decent job on the service.
Love to all, photos tomorrow I promise.
Tim
Sunday, May 9, 2010
An idylic day in paradise
It could not really be nicer well other than have someone to share it with on a personal basis. After sleeping well I woke to hear someone knocking at the door. It took me a bit to get up and I saw Roxanna walking away. Thinking she was on the beach walking I hurried into walking clothes and headed for the beach. She was not there but then I saw Rick, they were having breakfast and what a breakfast it turned out to be. Great eggs, potatoes, wonderful juice, spanish cheese and something like bananas fried.
Since the total objective today was to write the wedding sermon I was focussed on that alone. Rick and Roxanna had other plans. Soon we were in a small van heading for a river cruise with crocs and exotic birds. We were the only ones on the cruise, Heather, Ashley, Roxanna and Rick. Our guide was excellent and the captain of the cruise boat was sharp as well. We saw many unusual birds and Rick took photos with his highly professional camera system capturing many of them in flight. Toward the end of the cruise we slid up on shore and soon a croc approached. The captain jumped on the shore and started splashing the water. Soon a huge croc was headed our way. The captain then proceed to feed Toranado, named so when locals saw this croc take a full size cow and whirl it around in the water until killing it. We have some pretty good shots of the croc eating right beside the boat.
After our river cruise we had lunch and then I sat out to begin the service but as I sorted through the various emails I had been sent I began to dose off, well a long nap came next under the air conditioner. Finally as the day wore on I settled into write. At about 6:30 I finalized the first draft and started to print it out only to have the printer run out of ink. Fortunately I had a backup that was still sealed in its package and works well. That could have been a disaster.
At 7 we had a wedding dinner here at the hotel and it was excellent. The group assembled has people that are relatives on both sides and several from Rick's company that know Ryan well. Melissa's boss is here with her husband. Tonight I sat with my friends Ron and Lydia who are Melissa's father and step mother and happen to be long time friends and who live in Discovery Bay. They arrived today.
Now I'm back to the cool room writing to you my friends and family. It has been a wonderful relaxing day and an excellent reminder of what life is about, friends, nature and beauty. Today on the river cruise I learned that when one is in nature and surrounded by trees that you actually get an oxygen high since the trees and plants are all producing fresh supplies of just what humans need. God is such a creative force in our lives, no wonder it feels so good to be out in nature from time to time.
Tomorrow will be an adventure once again. I'll tackle the roads in the rental car and drive to the destination where the wedding is to be held. I will conduct the wedding in very warm weather and then drive back to this hotel for the night before heading out to the next destination the next day.
Sending love to all,
Tim
After our river cruise we had lunch and then I sat out to begin the service but as I sorted through the various emails I had been sent I began to dose off, well a long nap came next under the air conditioner. Finally as the day wore on I settled into write. At about 6:30 I finalized the first draft and started to print it out only to have the printer run out of ink. Fortunately I had a backup that was still sealed in its package and works well. That could have been a disaster.
At 7 we had a wedding dinner here at the hotel and it was excellent. The group assembled has people that are relatives on both sides and several from Rick's company that know Ryan well. Melissa's boss is here with her husband. Tonight I sat with my friends Ron and Lydia who are Melissa's father and step mother and happen to be long time friends and who live in Discovery Bay. They arrived today.
Now I'm back to the cool room writing to you my friends and family. It has been a wonderful relaxing day and an excellent reminder of what life is about, friends, nature and beauty. Today on the river cruise I learned that when one is in nature and surrounded by trees that you actually get an oxygen high since the trees and plants are all producing fresh supplies of just what humans need. God is such a creative force in our lives, no wonder it feels so good to be out in nature from time to time.
Tomorrow will be an adventure once again. I'll tackle the roads in the rental car and drive to the destination where the wedding is to be held. I will conduct the wedding in very warm weather and then drive back to this hotel for the night before heading out to the next destination the next day.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Saturday, May 8, 2010
One could learn to enjoy this kind of day.
Dear Family and Friends,
The day is finally calming down but I can hear a rock band playing nearby, a club of some kind. Lots of drums. Today was enchanted. After a very chaotic start to the morning where the rental car was appearing at 10, then earlier I finally signed for the car that Wade was to be driving and we headed out, I didn't even eat breakfast since the grave concern was we would not be able to get out at all. This country got a new president today and that took place in a park adjacent to the hotel we were staying in. There were hundreds of police everywhere surrounding the park and the streets. Many heads of state came to be a part of the celebration, a woman was established as the new head of the government here. The entire country is thrilled or at least it seems so.
I followed a car driven by Lee and family, I had no idea of where I was going at all so I had to keep him in sight. After a couple hitches we got on the brand new highway which cuts an hour out of our trip to the next town. It was beautiful driving and I had the two daughters of Roxanna's brother in the car. They are a hoot and were great travel buddies. After driving a bit over an hour we arrived in the little town. Then we proceeded to search for the hotel. It is a charming place with just 16 suites, has its own pool and direct ocean front beach. My room is a suite, has a full kitchen, two large beds, a lanai out front with chairs and a table.
I spent much of the day just standing in the pool which was shaded, warm and pleasant. The group of people I am with are decent, enjoyable and friendly people. I've not talked or laughed this much for a long time. Ryan and Melissa are leading a group who are going diving in the morning somewhere and I have the day to write and perfect the wedding. I have internet, my printer, great food a few steps away and the pool by my room.
Tomorrow Ron and Lydia are arriving which will be enjoyable as I know them already for a long time. Being in a place this beautiful really makes me long for heaven, the people here are friendly, clean and hard working. This is an amazing country in every way.
Wade wrote to say he is doing OK in Houston while he waits to get his passport fixed on Monday. He will miss the wedding which is so so sad but he is keeping positive. Which would you prefer? Be in Costa Rica or Houston? Rough choice right.
I've included some photos I shot today around the hotel. What an enjoyable break in my rather dull life. I only wish my family could be here as I think everyone of them would love it kidos and all.
So for now I'm wishing each of you good night.
Love
tim
The day is finally calming down but I can hear a rock band playing nearby, a club of some kind. Lots of drums. Today was enchanted. After a very chaotic start to the morning where the rental car was appearing at 10, then earlier I finally signed for the car that Wade was to be driving and we headed out, I didn't even eat breakfast since the grave concern was we would not be able to get out at all. This country got a new president today and that took place in a park adjacent to the hotel we were staying in. There were hundreds of police everywhere surrounding the park and the streets. Many heads of state came to be a part of the celebration, a woman was established as the new head of the government here. The entire country is thrilled or at least it seems so.
I followed a car driven by Lee and family, I had no idea of where I was going at all so I had to keep him in sight. After a couple hitches we got on the brand new highway which cuts an hour out of our trip to the next town. It was beautiful driving and I had the two daughters of Roxanna's brother in the car. They are a hoot and were great travel buddies. After driving a bit over an hour we arrived in the little town. Then we proceeded to search for the hotel. It is a charming place with just 16 suites, has its own pool and direct ocean front beach. My room is a suite, has a full kitchen, two large beds, a lanai out front with chairs and a table.
I spent much of the day just standing in the pool which was shaded, warm and pleasant. The group of people I am with are decent, enjoyable and friendly people. I've not talked or laughed this much for a long time. Ryan and Melissa are leading a group who are going diving in the morning somewhere and I have the day to write and perfect the wedding. I have internet, my printer, great food a few steps away and the pool by my room.
Tomorrow Ron and Lydia are arriving which will be enjoyable as I know them already for a long time. Being in a place this beautiful really makes me long for heaven, the people here are friendly, clean and hard working. This is an amazing country in every way.
Wade wrote to say he is doing OK in Houston while he waits to get his passport fixed on Monday. He will miss the wedding which is so so sad but he is keeping positive. Which would you prefer? Be in Costa Rica or Houston? Rough choice right.
So for now I'm wishing each of you good night.
Love
tim
Friday, May 7, 2010
A big day of travel to Costa Rica
Dear Family and Friends,
As I write I'm sitting in a very nice room in San Jose, Costa Rica. I wish I could report that our trip here was smooth and uneventful but that would be a lie.
It started well this morning, alarm woke me at 6 after going to bed at 2:10 this morning. I fought my way through the fog of deep slumber, hit the shower and went right to the garage. I was in search of a huge hard sided suitcase that Nan and I lovingly called Big Bertha, not sure why but this time I looked up and there it was on a high shelf. Knowing the minutes were ticking I managed to get it down without being crushed. I raced upstairs with it and began to load in all the clean clothes I had just washed, found several pairs of shorts, some light shirts, a dress shirt and tie, dark shoes, the recently tailored suit, the breathing machine, the shave bag. It all fit easily. Then I let it ride down the stair chair, grabbed some string cheese and crackers, picked up the computer bad that was already loaded and made an ontime arrival at Wade and Jody's house in Brentwood. They were ready to go and we quickly loaded up and left.
We arrived with plenty of time at the airport and we used the automated machines to check in, it accepted both our pass ports with no problems. We found some breakfast which turned out to be very good and boarded our plane for Houston. The flight was smooth and perfect and I even had a salad. I enjoyed listening to an Alex Cross book on the IPOD as I sat.
We met other people heading the wedding in Houston, Lee and his wife and two daughters from Marin who are relatives of Ryan, groom and two girls coming from Southern California who are cousins. Wade was to keep watch over them, keep them safe.
All went well until Wade presented his boarding paper and passport. I looked back to see he was stopped. I had noticed his passport was sort of crinkled from going through the wash. Well in Houston they applied a different standard than in San Francisco and they refused to let him board the plane. I waited up until the last minute and they did not relent. They said he would have to stay in Houston until Monday when the passport office would open and then he could continue his flight. NOT GOOD NEWS. Wade had all the travel information and knowledge, he has enjoyed three trips to Costa Rica before and knew his way around perfectly. He had all the contacts with him for the various parts of the trip. I quickly called Dana who lives in Houston and gave Wade her phone numbers and I am assuming that he with with Dana and Ronnie this weekend. I certainly hope so. I felt so sorry for him. The people refusing to let him board were angry at the SF airport for letting him get that far, they said the passport was missing some important data.
So I am sort of keeping a watchful eye over the two girls, aged 20 and 28. They are great sensible girls and the other family are terrific. Once we got through customs here we boarded a van for a $23 trip to the Crown Plaza. We all fit nicely. There was a lot of confusion at the desk as our reservations for Wade and me were in his name. A message had been left for Wade at the front desk informing him that the car which was supposed to be delivered at 9 am in the morning, the one we were to use to drive an hour and a half to our next destination was to be delivered tonight and we had to leave town at 6 in the morning to avoid a huge celebration of a new president for the country. When I called the rental car company they could find no record of any car that was saved for us. They said call in the morning at 7:30 and we intend to call the travel agent who is supposed to have everything arranged.
Needless to say once again I am reminded that travel is hard work but still very exciting. I so hope Wade with with family tonight and OK. The airline said they would get him on the plane on Monday once the passport is cleared up but the wedding is on Monday and he might miss the services. That would be so very sad. I kept thinking someone would step up and make a decision to let him go but then the plane doors closed and we taxied out, no Wade. Such a sinking feeling and all of us on the plane were just in shock.
Right now the biggest decision I have to make is which of the two huge beds I will use for some serious shut eye.
Love to all, I had hoped the digital phone would work here but so far no luck. So any cell phone call is $1.59 a minute.
Take care,
Tim
As I write I'm sitting in a very nice room in San Jose, Costa Rica. I wish I could report that our trip here was smooth and uneventful but that would be a lie.
It started well this morning, alarm woke me at 6 after going to bed at 2:10 this morning. I fought my way through the fog of deep slumber, hit the shower and went right to the garage. I was in search of a huge hard sided suitcase that Nan and I lovingly called Big Bertha, not sure why but this time I looked up and there it was on a high shelf. Knowing the minutes were ticking I managed to get it down without being crushed. I raced upstairs with it and began to load in all the clean clothes I had just washed, found several pairs of shorts, some light shirts, a dress shirt and tie, dark shoes, the recently tailored suit, the breathing machine, the shave bag. It all fit easily. Then I let it ride down the stair chair, grabbed some string cheese and crackers, picked up the computer bad that was already loaded and made an ontime arrival at Wade and Jody's house in Brentwood. They were ready to go and we quickly loaded up and left.
We arrived with plenty of time at the airport and we used the automated machines to check in, it accepted both our pass ports with no problems. We found some breakfast which turned out to be very good and boarded our plane for Houston. The flight was smooth and perfect and I even had a salad. I enjoyed listening to an Alex Cross book on the IPOD as I sat.
We met other people heading the wedding in Houston, Lee and his wife and two daughters from Marin who are relatives of Ryan, groom and two girls coming from Southern California who are cousins. Wade was to keep watch over them, keep them safe.
All went well until Wade presented his boarding paper and passport. I looked back to see he was stopped. I had noticed his passport was sort of crinkled from going through the wash. Well in Houston they applied a different standard than in San Francisco and they refused to let him board the plane. I waited up until the last minute and they did not relent. They said he would have to stay in Houston until Monday when the passport office would open and then he could continue his flight. NOT GOOD NEWS. Wade had all the travel information and knowledge, he has enjoyed three trips to Costa Rica before and knew his way around perfectly. He had all the contacts with him for the various parts of the trip. I quickly called Dana who lives in Houston and gave Wade her phone numbers and I am assuming that he with with Dana and Ronnie this weekend. I certainly hope so. I felt so sorry for him. The people refusing to let him board were angry at the SF airport for letting him get that far, they said the passport was missing some important data.
So I am sort of keeping a watchful eye over the two girls, aged 20 and 28. They are great sensible girls and the other family are terrific. Once we got through customs here we boarded a van for a $23 trip to the Crown Plaza. We all fit nicely. There was a lot of confusion at the desk as our reservations for Wade and me were in his name. A message had been left for Wade at the front desk informing him that the car which was supposed to be delivered at 9 am in the morning, the one we were to use to drive an hour and a half to our next destination was to be delivered tonight and we had to leave town at 6 in the morning to avoid a huge celebration of a new president for the country. When I called the rental car company they could find no record of any car that was saved for us. They said call in the morning at 7:30 and we intend to call the travel agent who is supposed to have everything arranged.
Needless to say once again I am reminded that travel is hard work but still very exciting. I so hope Wade with with family tonight and OK. The airline said they would get him on the plane on Monday once the passport is cleared up but the wedding is on Monday and he might miss the services. That would be so very sad. I kept thinking someone would step up and make a decision to let him go but then the plane doors closed and we taxied out, no Wade. Such a sinking feeling and all of us on the plane were just in shock.
Right now the biggest decision I have to make is which of the two huge beds I will use for some serious shut eye.
Love to all, I had hoped the digital phone would work here but so far no luck. So any cell phone call is $1.59 a minute.
Take care,
Tim
Tomorrow is fly day
Dear Family and Friends,
After a very long day, up at 6 am, in Ripon at 8 am, then Modesto at 9:30, back to the office at noon, write up 4 reports, yes 4 since then, fix conditions, start to pack. Well its now 1:40 am and I'm ready to head to bed for a few hours.
I leave at 7 in the morning for Brentwood where Jody and Wade live. We will drive in together to the SF airport, board for a 11 am departure, arrive in Houston late afternoon, wait for 1.5 hours and then fly to San Jose, Costa Rica.
I have such mixed feelings re: the trip. I am getting excited about visiting that beautiful country, about getting out of Dodge for a few days but also fearful of missing out on important work. Life here is so tenuous that even a little downturn can have terrible effects, like the last two weeks with little work. Not good at all.
I'm thankful for this opportunity to help really nice people start their married lives together. I just pray that I'll be able to do what they are hoping for with the service.
I'm not sure if I will get to blog tomorrow or not. We will see how things go.
So I'm sending love to all,
Tim
After a very long day, up at 6 am, in Ripon at 8 am, then Modesto at 9:30, back to the office at noon, write up 4 reports, yes 4 since then, fix conditions, start to pack. Well its now 1:40 am and I'm ready to head to bed for a few hours.
I leave at 7 in the morning for Brentwood where Jody and Wade live. We will drive in together to the SF airport, board for a 11 am departure, arrive in Houston late afternoon, wait for 1.5 hours and then fly to San Jose, Costa Rica.
I have such mixed feelings re: the trip. I am getting excited about visiting that beautiful country, about getting out of Dodge for a few days but also fearful of missing out on important work. Life here is so tenuous that even a little downturn can have terrible effects, like the last two weeks with little work. Not good at all.
I'm thankful for this opportunity to help really nice people start their married lives together. I just pray that I'll be able to do what they are hoping for with the service.
I'm not sure if I will get to blog tomorrow or not. We will see how things go.
So I'm sending love to all,
Tim
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
A very long day with an hour of pure joy!
Dear Family and Friends,
Wow, what a day! This morning I rolled out at 6, showered quickly and made eggs and toast, had strawberries and loaded water on board the bug and took off. I arrived early and the agent was there too. We made quick work of a very beautiful home. Then I shot the comps and by 9 was on the road home. As I drove down 99 and the phone rang. It was Eric who was asking if I could stop in Galt and do an appraisal. I told him I had no comps. He said he would find some and he did. I'm not sure just how good they are but I got the dump inspected, really bad roof, horrible carpet, sheet rock busted in places, floor soft in places, back deck is totally rotten but the place has 2 acres, a barn and could be wonderful I guess. All for $180K so not too bad a deal. Used to be worth over $400K.
I had just one important appointment and that came next. I picked up the girls at their sitters and we went to McDonalds in Brentwood to play and snack. They did a lot of playing and not so much eating. Then I took them to music class and Nikki met me there. What a spirit lifter those little ones are. It is a huge honor to be able to help with them. They are bright, funny and always have plenty of energy. I love them. I also got to talk to Timothy who just returned from Hawaii yesterday. He was in good spirits.
Well its time to crash, I've hardly eaten anything today, just too busy.
In the morning I'll be at a house in Ripon at 8 am and then hopefully a Modesto property afterwards. Then back home to write up the reports, pack and prepare to fly to Costa Rica. Can't believe the trip is already here.
Love
tim
Wow, what a day! This morning I rolled out at 6, showered quickly and made eggs and toast, had strawberries and loaded water on board the bug and took off. I arrived early and the agent was there too. We made quick work of a very beautiful home. Then I shot the comps and by 9 was on the road home. As I drove down 99 and the phone rang. It was Eric who was asking if I could stop in Galt and do an appraisal. I told him I had no comps. He said he would find some and he did. I'm not sure just how good they are but I got the dump inspected, really bad roof, horrible carpet, sheet rock busted in places, floor soft in places, back deck is totally rotten but the place has 2 acres, a barn and could be wonderful I guess. All for $180K so not too bad a deal. Used to be worth over $400K.
I had just one important appointment and that came next. I picked up the girls at their sitters and we went to McDonalds in Brentwood to play and snack. They did a lot of playing and not so much eating. Then I took them to music class and Nikki met me there. What a spirit lifter those little ones are. It is a huge honor to be able to help with them. They are bright, funny and always have plenty of energy. I love them. I also got to talk to Timothy who just returned from Hawaii yesterday. He was in good spirits.
Well its time to crash, I've hardly eaten anything today, just too busy.
In the morning I'll be at a house in Ripon at 8 am and then hopefully a Modesto property afterwards. Then back home to write up the reports, pack and prepare to fly to Costa Rica. Can't believe the trip is already here.
Love
tim
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Whew
Dear Family and Friends,
Well the drought is over for a bit work wise. Now that I'm leaving the country for 6 days the orders are coming in fast. At 9 am in the morning I'll be seeing a place in El Dorado Hills above Sacramento, then race back to write it up and then get to spend some time with Keanna. On Thursday morning I'm seeing at least two in Modesto and then racing back to write them up. My stress level is pretty high right now, not a great time to take ones blood pressure. Yet it is very exciting to have work again at least for now.
I'm going to have to keep this short today so I can get some sleep. I figure I need to be up at 6 to get on the road for the day. On Friday morning early I board a plane for Houston where I sit and wait for 1.5 hours, then on to San Jose Costa Rica. At this point it seems like a distant dream but its coming up fast. So many things to get done, people to satisfy.
I'm thankful for work and it will help pay the next batch of bills.
Love
tim
Well the drought is over for a bit work wise. Now that I'm leaving the country for 6 days the orders are coming in fast. At 9 am in the morning I'll be seeing a place in El Dorado Hills above Sacramento, then race back to write it up and then get to spend some time with Keanna. On Thursday morning I'm seeing at least two in Modesto and then racing back to write them up. My stress level is pretty high right now, not a great time to take ones blood pressure. Yet it is very exciting to have work again at least for now.
I'm going to have to keep this short today so I can get some sleep. I figure I need to be up at 6 to get on the road for the day. On Friday morning early I board a plane for Houston where I sit and wait for 1.5 hours, then on to San Jose Costa Rica. At this point it seems like a distant dream but its coming up fast. So many things to get done, people to satisfy.
I'm thankful for work and it will help pay the next batch of bills.
Love
tim
Monday, May 3, 2010
14 pounds down!
Dear Family and Friends,
Just back from a successful run to college checks. Funds have come in from a variety of places, cash in Manteca, a check this afternoon upon completion of the land appraisal and then I thought why not give the party in Martinez a call. Long ago, perhaps 6 months, I did an appraisal but was never paid. So I began to call to collect but the people are really going through a rough time so I waited and called when I was in town, lowered what they owed me and just kept calling once in a while. So tonight I thought I'd call one more time and the owner said, sure you can pick up a check, music to my ears so I drove over to Martinez, picked up the discounted check and with that check I think I have the house payment covered at last.
Two of the four orders that came in last Friday have been cancelled, that was very disappointing but I still have two and one is half written while the other one is set to be seen at 11:30 in the morning.
Lois loaded a book in the IPOD for me and so for the last couple days I've been listening. The entire center theme of the book is a man losing his wife to a heart attack after they had been married many years. It then follows him as he stumbles through his terrible grief and then finally finds someone new. Listening was both hard and enjoyable, so many of the moments he was experiencing were very familiar to me. When someone loses a spouse of many years, no matter through death or divorce it is a devastating time, one you wonder if you will recover from and then time passes and you find yourself laughing at times, or smiling and becoming more at peace. The terrible unfairness always lingers, you just want to do something to make all the hurt go away. Thank you Lois for sharing the book.
I had very good news at Weight Watchers today. I fully expected to have gained some, mostly due to Jerry stuffing me with his good cooking and the many excuses we found to go out to eat yet I was down a full 2 pounds. I could not believe it. What do I attribute the loss to? Water is the best reason. I have water with me all the time and I drink, drink, drink. Second, when I am full I quit. Just quit. I have three different leftovers in the frig right now but frankly they will just be thrown away. One nice trick I've learned at WW is to dip your fork in the salad dressing and then put a bite of the salad on the fork, this rather than dump hundreds of calories on the salad. I first tried it tonight when I went to a new place in Antioch, the salad was a simple dinner salad and I dipped the fork each time in the dressing, the salad stayed crisp and it tasted great.
Sleep is overwhelming me as I write so I'll bid you each good night.
Love
tim
Just back from a successful run to college checks. Funds have come in from a variety of places, cash in Manteca, a check this afternoon upon completion of the land appraisal and then I thought why not give the party in Martinez a call. Long ago, perhaps 6 months, I did an appraisal but was never paid. So I began to call to collect but the people are really going through a rough time so I waited and called when I was in town, lowered what they owed me and just kept calling once in a while. So tonight I thought I'd call one more time and the owner said, sure you can pick up a check, music to my ears so I drove over to Martinez, picked up the discounted check and with that check I think I have the house payment covered at last.
Two of the four orders that came in last Friday have been cancelled, that was very disappointing but I still have two and one is half written while the other one is set to be seen at 11:30 in the morning.
Lois loaded a book in the IPOD for me and so for the last couple days I've been listening. The entire center theme of the book is a man losing his wife to a heart attack after they had been married many years. It then follows him as he stumbles through his terrible grief and then finally finds someone new. Listening was both hard and enjoyable, so many of the moments he was experiencing were very familiar to me. When someone loses a spouse of many years, no matter through death or divorce it is a devastating time, one you wonder if you will recover from and then time passes and you find yourself laughing at times, or smiling and becoming more at peace. The terrible unfairness always lingers, you just want to do something to make all the hurt go away. Thank you Lois for sharing the book.
I had very good news at Weight Watchers today. I fully expected to have gained some, mostly due to Jerry stuffing me with his good cooking and the many excuses we found to go out to eat yet I was down a full 2 pounds. I could not believe it. What do I attribute the loss to? Water is the best reason. I have water with me all the time and I drink, drink, drink. Second, when I am full I quit. Just quit. I have three different leftovers in the frig right now but frankly they will just be thrown away. One nice trick I've learned at WW is to dip your fork in the salad dressing and then put a bite of the salad on the fork, this rather than dump hundreds of calories on the salad. I first tried it tonight when I went to a new place in Antioch, the salad was a simple dinner salad and I dipped the fork each time in the dressing, the salad stayed crisp and it tasted great.
Sleep is overwhelming me as I write so I'll bid you each good night.
Love
tim
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