5:55 shower 6:20 leave for Nikki and Steve's house 6:33 arrive and see Nikki leave for work 6:34 watch channel 2 news and read emails on Nikki's laptop 7:45 kidos wake up, both smiling, Keanna helps dress Kallie and even wants to change her diaper, talk about a good big sister. 7:55 make waffle, sausage, pour milk, encourage both girls to eat more, watch Curious George less. 8:40 load and leave for Brentwood, 9:00 drop Keanna off at summer camp meeting place, drive Kallie back to Discovery Bay - she cries when I leave, wants to come with me, my heart breaks a little. 9:30 take meds and eat a bite, Tonya the house helper has arrived and has started finding dirt EVERYWHERE, she does not leave until mid afternoon. What a difference she makes everywhere. 9:45 I work in the office and complete a report after driving around Disco Bay to shoot comps photos, 2:30 leave for Martinez to see a sale for $499K, higher than most but very nice, 4:30 leave Martinez for Castro Valley to shoot comp photos, leave Castro Valley at 6:30 for home and have dinner on the way, home at 8:30, proceed to motorhome to work on medicine cabinet, use both tools Steve gave me several months ago, glad to have them, 10 pm medicine cabinet installed, 10:25 set down to blog.
Who knew life could be so exciting at 61 years old?
Love to all
Tim
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Getting help from India, very trying.
Dear Family and Friends,
All was going pretty well until the pop ups started. Every 10 seconds there it was again, a box with yellow header telling me I needed to update my Norton Virus Protection. Trouble is, I've not used that system in years but here was the constant barrage of pop ups, nothing would cause them to cease and I could not work while they were on the screen. This started about 3:45. I called my faithful IT guy but he must be on vacation, can you imagine, going on vacation when I needed him! Finally in desperation I started searching for help on their web site. Of course no phone numbers were in evidence, someone might actually call and take their time. So finally I located a way to have a web chat, that sounded good and soon I was chatting with Alar, he was very helpful, even took over my computer and started to search for a repair but then I lost him, that was after 1 hour. Then I tried again and that tech demanded to know if I was working with another tech, convinced that I was he signed off and left me stranded. So I tried again and got a 3rd Mohammad was helpful and things looked good until after rebooting the computer nothing happened for 10 minutes and the cursor was frozen in place. Hours later the 4th time the guy went right to it and deleted Norton 2002 from the computer. True at least one of the programs I use all the time won't work now but I don't have to see the pop ups before my eyes. It only took about 4 hours and high blood pressure. Finally I was able to start working on the report at around 7:30 when I had started at 3:30. Oh what an interesting time we live in. A world where we make nothing here in our own country, pick up anything, even an american flag and its made somewhere else. Filters for the frig, Taiwan, medicine cabinet for the motorhome, China, and so it goes.
This morning Papa cared for the girls, we made waffles, drank our milk, ate sausages and I delivered Keanna to the park in Brentwood 10 minutes early. Then Kallie and I drove back to her place for the day which is in Discovery Bay and delivered her to the door. On the walk to the door there is a little puddle from the sprinklers. You can see her wind up for it ahead of time and she jumps in the water. Now tell me is that learned or did it come from somewhere deep inside, something compels little ones to jump in water puddles.
Today I've enjoyed some real delights from my Tupperware which is filled with fruit, strawberries, blackberries, grapes and melon. Oh is that stuff good.
Our weather is gradually cooling a bit but at this moment at 10 pm the little AC is still grinding away and its very warm outside still. Tomorrow the house cleaner arrives at 9 so I've promised her the house will be cooler for the day as she works hard and there is plenty to do in this house at this time.
Well this is the report for today, life is good, at least average, health is OK, orders are in hand for now and this weekend will be a chance to see family, yea!
Love
tim
All was going pretty well until the pop ups started. Every 10 seconds there it was again, a box with yellow header telling me I needed to update my Norton Virus Protection. Trouble is, I've not used that system in years but here was the constant barrage of pop ups, nothing would cause them to cease and I could not work while they were on the screen. This started about 3:45. I called my faithful IT guy but he must be on vacation, can you imagine, going on vacation when I needed him! Finally in desperation I started searching for help on their web site. Of course no phone numbers were in evidence, someone might actually call and take their time. So finally I located a way to have a web chat, that sounded good and soon I was chatting with Alar, he was very helpful, even took over my computer and started to search for a repair but then I lost him, that was after 1 hour. Then I tried again and that tech demanded to know if I was working with another tech, convinced that I was he signed off and left me stranded. So I tried again and got a 3rd Mohammad was helpful and things looked good until after rebooting the computer nothing happened for 10 minutes and the cursor was frozen in place. Hours later the 4th time the guy went right to it and deleted Norton 2002 from the computer. True at least one of the programs I use all the time won't work now but I don't have to see the pop ups before my eyes. It only took about 4 hours and high blood pressure. Finally I was able to start working on the report at around 7:30 when I had started at 3:30. Oh what an interesting time we live in. A world where we make nothing here in our own country, pick up anything, even an american flag and its made somewhere else. Filters for the frig, Taiwan, medicine cabinet for the motorhome, China, and so it goes.
This morning Papa cared for the girls, we made waffles, drank our milk, ate sausages and I delivered Keanna to the park in Brentwood 10 minutes early. Then Kallie and I drove back to her place for the day which is in Discovery Bay and delivered her to the door. On the walk to the door there is a little puddle from the sprinklers. You can see her wind up for it ahead of time and she jumps in the water. Now tell me is that learned or did it come from somewhere deep inside, something compels little ones to jump in water puddles.
Today I've enjoyed some real delights from my Tupperware which is filled with fruit, strawberries, blackberries, grapes and melon. Oh is that stuff good.
Our weather is gradually cooling a bit but at this moment at 10 pm the little AC is still grinding away and its very warm outside still. Tomorrow the house cleaner arrives at 9 so I've promised her the house will be cooler for the day as she works hard and there is plenty to do in this house at this time.
Well this is the report for today, life is good, at least average, health is OK, orders are in hand for now and this weekend will be a chance to see family, yea!
Love
tim
Monday, June 28, 2010
Starr goes to the doctor
Good evening
This afternoon after seeing Starr stumble when she rose from her little bed and then refuse a treat I decided that a long put off trip to see the vet was in order. At 2:20 we arrived and were ushered into a little room. Shortly later the doctor came in and looked her over, then the fun began. Starr needed her nails clipped and her glands expressed, whoopee, I'll pay for that one for sure. But of course the doctor came up with a long list of possible things to be done which I'm sure will be in the hundreds of dollars, blood work, sedation, do this, do that, well I got out today for just $88 and I felt like running. They were kind but they sure have it wired. Yes they could supply a special dog food that would help her lose weight, yes it is by prescription only for $60 a bag, such a deal, yes I could wash her ears out with their special doggies ear wash at just $29 a bottle, yes I could start her on pain meds since she is old and that would be just $60 for each month and on it went.
Starr probably expressed it best, the second we got outside on the sidewalk she took a dump and seemed very pleased with herself! Oh the joys of caring for a much loved pet. Yes I should give her a bath once a month, never have before but its time to learn how. Well that trip ate up a huge chunk of the afternoon and on the way a phone call really made my day. Seems Citibank dumped me from their approved list in 2003 but didn't bother to tell anyone. So loans that are now going there through another loan company are suddenly getting hit with a huge review fee on every deal. So tomorrow I go back in time and try to fix whatever was wrong back in 2003. I don't even have files that old. I only am required to keep them 5 years and then they can be dumped. Oh the joys of being in business and trying to stay in business.
This morning after the walk I took a few minutes to do some work I enjoy, that is work with tools and my hands. I'm replacing the medicine cabinet in the motorhome, the one it came with has totally given up the ghost. Well the new one I purchased is a bit larger than the old one so I spent a few minutes this morning cutting a larger hole in the motorhome, feels sort of strange to be doing that and you sure hope you are right as you cut away.
At 5:20 I went to Weight Watchers and discovered that in spite of my evil ways I had only gained .6 of a pound for the past two weeks. The talk was excellent and I walked out so motivated that I drove directly to the club and did a full workout. I was delighted to see Nikki there between her classes. Afterwards in spite of being hungry I ventured into ACE and picked up some little pieces I need to complete the medicine cabinet installation. Then I made a stop at FoodMax, got some great buys and finally got home about 8:30 or so.
This has been a very hot day here, about 100 or so and its still warm this evening. I hope a cooling trend hits soon as the electricity bill will be huge. I'm having the house cleaned this Wednesday which will be a nice uplift. Tonya does a great job.
So good night to all,
love
tim
This afternoon after seeing Starr stumble when she rose from her little bed and then refuse a treat I decided that a long put off trip to see the vet was in order. At 2:20 we arrived and were ushered into a little room. Shortly later the doctor came in and looked her over, then the fun began. Starr needed her nails clipped and her glands expressed, whoopee, I'll pay for that one for sure. But of course the doctor came up with a long list of possible things to be done which I'm sure will be in the hundreds of dollars, blood work, sedation, do this, do that, well I got out today for just $88 and I felt like running. They were kind but they sure have it wired. Yes they could supply a special dog food that would help her lose weight, yes it is by prescription only for $60 a bag, such a deal, yes I could wash her ears out with their special doggies ear wash at just $29 a bottle, yes I could start her on pain meds since she is old and that would be just $60 for each month and on it went.
Starr probably expressed it best, the second we got outside on the sidewalk she took a dump and seemed very pleased with herself! Oh the joys of caring for a much loved pet. Yes I should give her a bath once a month, never have before but its time to learn how. Well that trip ate up a huge chunk of the afternoon and on the way a phone call really made my day. Seems Citibank dumped me from their approved list in 2003 but didn't bother to tell anyone. So loans that are now going there through another loan company are suddenly getting hit with a huge review fee on every deal. So tomorrow I go back in time and try to fix whatever was wrong back in 2003. I don't even have files that old. I only am required to keep them 5 years and then they can be dumped. Oh the joys of being in business and trying to stay in business.
This morning after the walk I took a few minutes to do some work I enjoy, that is work with tools and my hands. I'm replacing the medicine cabinet in the motorhome, the one it came with has totally given up the ghost. Well the new one I purchased is a bit larger than the old one so I spent a few minutes this morning cutting a larger hole in the motorhome, feels sort of strange to be doing that and you sure hope you are right as you cut away.
At 5:20 I went to Weight Watchers and discovered that in spite of my evil ways I had only gained .6 of a pound for the past two weeks. The talk was excellent and I walked out so motivated that I drove directly to the club and did a full workout. I was delighted to see Nikki there between her classes. Afterwards in spite of being hungry I ventured into ACE and picked up some little pieces I need to complete the medicine cabinet installation. Then I made a stop at FoodMax, got some great buys and finally got home about 8:30 or so.
This has been a very hot day here, about 100 or so and its still warm this evening. I hope a cooling trend hits soon as the electricity bill will be huge. I'm having the house cleaned this Wednesday which will be a nice uplift. Tonya does a great job.
So good night to all,
love
tim
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Its getting hot
Good evening,
PG&E must be smiling this evening, the weather has turned really hot, at least in the 90s. I have a little room AC in the office that just does a great job and then the house system is set to come on at 78. This afternoon its been on a lot which is not so good for the upcoming bill. I'm thankful I have a cool place to work and rest.
This afternoon Ray came over to visit and we ended up in the kitchen, I was hungry and warmed up some vege burger in a fry pan, cooked some peas in the microwave and I mentioned that I had this huge frozen sack of broccoli in the freezer. Ray share an idea of how to turn some of the contents of that sack into very good tasting food. He insisted and we discovered that I had a can of Italian bread crumbs, a large container of garlic, some stick butter and some oil. He took several pieces of broccoli out of the sack and placed them in a bowl, then he ran water over and around the pieces to wet them, then he put the bread crumbs all around the pieces, then added garlic, butter and pepper. He stirred the ingredients all around so the crumbs were sticky and microwaved it for 6 minutes. What came out was a tasty feast. I was ready to throw the sack of frozen pieces away as I had been told that they were probably not going to be much good. Wrong, they are great and now I know another way to make good food more interesting.
Today I've been a busy boy. Ken and I beat the pavement this morning and found that even at 7 am it was starting to get warm. Once people were up I followed up on a contact I had made regarding a tow dolly. I've been interested in one for the last 2 years. With a tow dolly I can take the bug with me when I travel and once I stop and park I have a car to do appraisals, go sight seeing, go into town to buy food, whatever. Its been a dream and I follow listings on Craig's list all the time. Imagine my surprise when I discovered a listing for one right here in Discovery Bay. It seemed the price was a bit high but I asked Steve if he would go with me to look at it this morning. We both liked what we saw. While not perfect it is strong, well built and in good condition. It was the first time in years that I've tried to bargain and it worked out really well. He came down $140 from his initial price which put the final price right where I thought it should be so we agreed. This evening he delivered it to my driveway. I have thought long and hard about doing this knowing there is still a chance I might have to let the motorhome go but then I realized that if the motorhome had to go I would just turn around and sell the tow dolly and probably not lose any money in the process. I cannot begin to tell you how pleased I am to finally have a tow dolly and I'm looking forward to the freedom it will allow for future camping.
Once that was over and Steve and I had breakfast I came back home to settle in to work and a break here and there I've gotten lots of work completed.
Now its time for bed, 6:30 walk comes early in the morning.
I hope your weekend has gone well for you and that you have had moments of bliss, moments of peace and moments of joy.
Love
tim
PG&E must be smiling this evening, the weather has turned really hot, at least in the 90s. I have a little room AC in the office that just does a great job and then the house system is set to come on at 78. This afternoon its been on a lot which is not so good for the upcoming bill. I'm thankful I have a cool place to work and rest.
This afternoon Ray came over to visit and we ended up in the kitchen, I was hungry and warmed up some vege burger in a fry pan, cooked some peas in the microwave and I mentioned that I had this huge frozen sack of broccoli in the freezer. Ray share an idea of how to turn some of the contents of that sack into very good tasting food. He insisted and we discovered that I had a can of Italian bread crumbs, a large container of garlic, some stick butter and some oil. He took several pieces of broccoli out of the sack and placed them in a bowl, then he ran water over and around the pieces to wet them, then he put the bread crumbs all around the pieces, then added garlic, butter and pepper. He stirred the ingredients all around so the crumbs were sticky and microwaved it for 6 minutes. What came out was a tasty feast. I was ready to throw the sack of frozen pieces away as I had been told that they were probably not going to be much good. Wrong, they are great and now I know another way to make good food more interesting.
Today I've been a busy boy. Ken and I beat the pavement this morning and found that even at 7 am it was starting to get warm. Once people were up I followed up on a contact I had made regarding a tow dolly. I've been interested in one for the last 2 years. With a tow dolly I can take the bug with me when I travel and once I stop and park I have a car to do appraisals, go sight seeing, go into town to buy food, whatever. Its been a dream and I follow listings on Craig's list all the time. Imagine my surprise when I discovered a listing for one right here in Discovery Bay. It seemed the price was a bit high but I asked Steve if he would go with me to look at it this morning. We both liked what we saw. While not perfect it is strong, well built and in good condition. It was the first time in years that I've tried to bargain and it worked out really well. He came down $140 from his initial price which put the final price right where I thought it should be so we agreed. This evening he delivered it to my driveway. I have thought long and hard about doing this knowing there is still a chance I might have to let the motorhome go but then I realized that if the motorhome had to go I would just turn around and sell the tow dolly and probably not lose any money in the process. I cannot begin to tell you how pleased I am to finally have a tow dolly and I'm looking forward to the freedom it will allow for future camping.
Once that was over and Steve and I had breakfast I came back home to settle in to work and a break here and there I've gotten lots of work completed.
Now its time for bed, 6:30 walk comes early in the morning.
I hope your weekend has gone well for you and that you have had moments of bliss, moments of peace and moments of joy.
Love
tim
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Low key day
Dear Family and Friends,
Not too much to say about a very low key day. Ken and I hit the pavement this morning doing our normal 3 miles and then it was breakfast of eggs, potato's, fruit and orange juice on the back deck. It was a beautiful morning and the ducks and geese lazed on the lake.
Then I checked the computer and promptly fell asleep in the chair, eventually I woke, showered and fell asleep again in the recliner upstairs.
Eventually I found some lunch and took it easy. Some days are just like that, you just unwind and relax.
Now tomorrow will be a different story with lots to do, appraisals to write up, projects to accomplish and even perhaps a trip to the gym.
Carrol continues to improve and is making rapid progress with her therapy which is great news. She is just off of chemo so she has to be very careful about exposure to any ones bugs. I know she and Bob appreciate the kind thoughts and prayers from all of you.
Well its now officially time to be sleeping.
Love
tim
Not too much to say about a very low key day. Ken and I hit the pavement this morning doing our normal 3 miles and then it was breakfast of eggs, potato's, fruit and orange juice on the back deck. It was a beautiful morning and the ducks and geese lazed on the lake.
Then I checked the computer and promptly fell asleep in the chair, eventually I woke, showered and fell asleep again in the recliner upstairs.
Eventually I found some lunch and took it easy. Some days are just like that, you just unwind and relax.
Now tomorrow will be a different story with lots to do, appraisals to write up, projects to accomplish and even perhaps a trip to the gym.
Carrol continues to improve and is making rapid progress with her therapy which is great news. She is just off of chemo so she has to be very careful about exposure to any ones bugs. I know she and Bob appreciate the kind thoughts and prayers from all of you.
Well its now officially time to be sleeping.
Love
tim
Friday, June 25, 2010
Wrapping up another week
Good evening
10:30 and I'm just in from having dinner with the girls at Olive Garden in Tracy. No I never tire of eating there, the food is fresh, tasty, reasonable and the service is prompt, the servers friendly. Nikki is extra tired after not only going to work every morning at 6:25 but also being at the church until 9 each evening. The week has taken its toll on her and tonight she is exhausted. Keanna was excited since she has a neighbor girl staying with her for a couple days while her parents are away. Kallie was in good spirits until her mother dared to insist that she eat a piece of chicken before having more bread or the mint. Kallie did not like that at all and let us know briefly before moving on to the next thing.
Today has been interesting for me work wise. Remember how I was deeply concerned about the lack of work as I started the week. I pleaded with God regarding some orders and He has seen fit to send several. This morning I rose at 6 and began work finishing the first report by 9 when I was set to leave for an Oakland appraisal. Just one problem arose though, I did not have the address of the property. Elizabeth had called to ask if I could be there at 10 and promised to email the address. She was distracted and did not do it. I tried last night and many times this morning to reach her. Finally at 10:10 I reached someone in her office, they gave me the address, I quickly researched it and left arriving at 11:45. Once that assignment was over, the cash collected and the comps shot I moved on to Antioch where I made a quick stop at Taco Bell for lunch. Then it was on to Brentwood to complete an appraisal started yesterday and then on to Discovery Bay to measure a huge home. By that time it was warm and the house seemed to resist my efforts to measure it. Finally an hour later I was finally completed with the inspection, shot the comps and headed home. Upon arriving at home I attempted to nap after viewing the emails for the day but changed my mind and went out to mow and edge the lawn. I love this new edger Jason is letting me use of his. What a great tool. Once the lawn was mowed I then turned to some bushes that were growing out of control and clipped them back to a decent shape and size. By then it was time to leave for Tracy and the Olive Garden.
At this point I am pretty busy with work which is a whole different experience from last Friday. I am thankful, words do not seem to convey the full impact of how I feel. At this point in my life when the work dries up then I see everything crumbling, the house, the ability to pay my bills, it all comes quickly into question and once work has arrived it seems those fears slip back into the darkness for the time being. Most appraisers are having a rough time right now. Many have quit or retired, in fact we have lost many of the best and brightest over the government controls over the appraisal process. Believe me, its a mess and this is one area that the government is totally wrong on. Their solution has hurt buyers, agents, appraisers and has helped no one other than these new management companies that literally do nothing vital but take a huge piece of the pie out of our way of life. Yet in spite of that some work has slipped through the cracks and into my hands, for that I praise God.
Tomorrow I hope to be able to spend some time with Carrol who is adjusting to her new life in the rehab hospital. She is pleased with the food, is sleeping and is already on her feet briefly per a message from Bob.
We have a lot to be thankful for and yes a great many things we long for as well.
Love to all
Tim
10:30 and I'm just in from having dinner with the girls at Olive Garden in Tracy. No I never tire of eating there, the food is fresh, tasty, reasonable and the service is prompt, the servers friendly. Nikki is extra tired after not only going to work every morning at 6:25 but also being at the church until 9 each evening. The week has taken its toll on her and tonight she is exhausted. Keanna was excited since she has a neighbor girl staying with her for a couple days while her parents are away. Kallie was in good spirits until her mother dared to insist that she eat a piece of chicken before having more bread or the mint. Kallie did not like that at all and let us know briefly before moving on to the next thing.
Today has been interesting for me work wise. Remember how I was deeply concerned about the lack of work as I started the week. I pleaded with God regarding some orders and He has seen fit to send several. This morning I rose at 6 and began work finishing the first report by 9 when I was set to leave for an Oakland appraisal. Just one problem arose though, I did not have the address of the property. Elizabeth had called to ask if I could be there at 10 and promised to email the address. She was distracted and did not do it. I tried last night and many times this morning to reach her. Finally at 10:10 I reached someone in her office, they gave me the address, I quickly researched it and left arriving at 11:45. Once that assignment was over, the cash collected and the comps shot I moved on to Antioch where I made a quick stop at Taco Bell for lunch. Then it was on to Brentwood to complete an appraisal started yesterday and then on to Discovery Bay to measure a huge home. By that time it was warm and the house seemed to resist my efforts to measure it. Finally an hour later I was finally completed with the inspection, shot the comps and headed home. Upon arriving at home I attempted to nap after viewing the emails for the day but changed my mind and went out to mow and edge the lawn. I love this new edger Jason is letting me use of his. What a great tool. Once the lawn was mowed I then turned to some bushes that were growing out of control and clipped them back to a decent shape and size. By then it was time to leave for Tracy and the Olive Garden.
At this point I am pretty busy with work which is a whole different experience from last Friday. I am thankful, words do not seem to convey the full impact of how I feel. At this point in my life when the work dries up then I see everything crumbling, the house, the ability to pay my bills, it all comes quickly into question and once work has arrived it seems those fears slip back into the darkness for the time being. Most appraisers are having a rough time right now. Many have quit or retired, in fact we have lost many of the best and brightest over the government controls over the appraisal process. Believe me, its a mess and this is one area that the government is totally wrong on. Their solution has hurt buyers, agents, appraisers and has helped no one other than these new management companies that literally do nothing vital but take a huge piece of the pie out of our way of life. Yet in spite of that some work has slipped through the cracks and into my hands, for that I praise God.
Tomorrow I hope to be able to spend some time with Carrol who is adjusting to her new life in the rehab hospital. She is pleased with the food, is sleeping and is already on her feet briefly per a message from Bob.
We have a lot to be thankful for and yes a great many things we long for as well.
Love to all
Tim
Thursday, June 24, 2010
The Winds are blowing at my back
Good evening
Well its been a good day, how bout you? Good day too. Ken and I walked at 6:30 in pleasant weather and then the morning began. A small breakfast launched me into the day where I foundered for a bit wasting precious time on a variety of tasks, first off the computer mouse froze in place, then a warning from Symtec popped up every 10 seconds and no matter what I did it would not stop. A call to my faithful IT guy Jim had him taking over the computer by remote control and jerking every place in the entire computer where that program showed it head. That solved that problem and the computer began to settle down and work again but at least an hour was blown.
As I was sitting at the computer suddenly I remembered that I had made a 10 am appointment a couple weeks ago to see a local property so I quickly changed focus and prepared myself for that appointment. What a pleasant experience to renew a friendship with a nice lady who was a broker for a very long time here in Discovery. Now she is contemplating a move with her son to Battle Ground Washington. I found that interesting as that is where my mom and step dad lived for many years, Andy for all of his life and my mom for the last 25 years of her life. So I could fill them in a bit on what they could expect once they make the move.
After the appointment and welcome check it was back home to prepare for the next appointment in Brentwood. I saw that one just before picking up Keanna from sunmmer camp at the club. She was full of energy and ideas so we drifted over to a very nice McDonalds in Brentwood and she snacked on a full meal and enjoyed the play structure. Then we shot comp photos and headed home. While we were driving a call came in from a management company I had applied to long ago but never heard from. Quality Appraisals was asking if I would do an FHA for a sale right here in Discovery Bay. Of course they were offering $325 for a report I usually charge $450 for. Yet I accepted it as I would to develop all the avenues of orders I can find. It felt like the Lord prompted her to call and she was excited saying she had no one on her approved list for this area. Such is the way this week has gone. Now I have rush orders to complete, some people have already paid me for work and I've gone from very slow to as busy as I could be at least for now. I'm waiting for yet another order for Discovery Bay and then one for Hayward to materialize as well. They have been promised, now to see them in hand!
At the present time I'm working my way through 3 books and am encouraged by all three. I'm realizing that as I read the one about coping with grief that most of that process is now behind me. My thoughts of Nan are positive, they make me smile, I remember our time together as a gift and one I will always treasure. I also view the present as a time to discover what the future holds and have even realized that I might experience life in ways I have never experienced before, that is a new and exciting thought.
Just now Lois and I had a rather unusual experience. She will be out of town quite a bit over the next few days and wanted to let me have a way into her house in case cats and dogs need food or water etc. We thought the easiest way would be to program #3 interlink in the van to open her garage door. I have the other two links set to open my garage doors. We carefully followed the instructions and at first it worked, the door went up and down and I headed home. Yet the next time we tried it neither her remote or the car one would touch the door. We tried over and over to program it but to no avail. Finally I decided to make sure the path between the little red and green lights at the bottom of the door that reverse the door if there is any obstruction. Amazingly we had shifted an old motorbike just enough that its tire was in the way of the beam. When I shoved it in suddenly the door worked for both remotes and we finally had the success we were seeking. Now I'm home beginning to write an appraisal I started much earlier in the day.
Late this afternoon both Kallie and Keanna were here for a bit until their mother picked them up. They are so much fun. I know for those of you who have little ones you get bored reading about mine and for those of you who do not yet have the blessing well you just can't know how much total joy it is.
So I bid each of you a good night.
Love
tim
Well its been a good day, how bout you? Good day too. Ken and I walked at 6:30 in pleasant weather and then the morning began. A small breakfast launched me into the day where I foundered for a bit wasting precious time on a variety of tasks, first off the computer mouse froze in place, then a warning from Symtec popped up every 10 seconds and no matter what I did it would not stop. A call to my faithful IT guy Jim had him taking over the computer by remote control and jerking every place in the entire computer where that program showed it head. That solved that problem and the computer began to settle down and work again but at least an hour was blown.
As I was sitting at the computer suddenly I remembered that I had made a 10 am appointment a couple weeks ago to see a local property so I quickly changed focus and prepared myself for that appointment. What a pleasant experience to renew a friendship with a nice lady who was a broker for a very long time here in Discovery. Now she is contemplating a move with her son to Battle Ground Washington. I found that interesting as that is where my mom and step dad lived for many years, Andy for all of his life and my mom for the last 25 years of her life. So I could fill them in a bit on what they could expect once they make the move.
After the appointment and welcome check it was back home to prepare for the next appointment in Brentwood. I saw that one just before picking up Keanna from sunmmer camp at the club. She was full of energy and ideas so we drifted over to a very nice McDonalds in Brentwood and she snacked on a full meal and enjoyed the play structure. Then we shot comp photos and headed home. While we were driving a call came in from a management company I had applied to long ago but never heard from. Quality Appraisals was asking if I would do an FHA for a sale right here in Discovery Bay. Of course they were offering $325 for a report I usually charge $450 for. Yet I accepted it as I would to develop all the avenues of orders I can find. It felt like the Lord prompted her to call and she was excited saying she had no one on her approved list for this area. Such is the way this week has gone. Now I have rush orders to complete, some people have already paid me for work and I've gone from very slow to as busy as I could be at least for now. I'm waiting for yet another order for Discovery Bay and then one for Hayward to materialize as well. They have been promised, now to see them in hand!
At the present time I'm working my way through 3 books and am encouraged by all three. I'm realizing that as I read the one about coping with grief that most of that process is now behind me. My thoughts of Nan are positive, they make me smile, I remember our time together as a gift and one I will always treasure. I also view the present as a time to discover what the future holds and have even realized that I might experience life in ways I have never experienced before, that is a new and exciting thought.
Just now Lois and I had a rather unusual experience. She will be out of town quite a bit over the next few days and wanted to let me have a way into her house in case cats and dogs need food or water etc. We thought the easiest way would be to program #3 interlink in the van to open her garage door. I have the other two links set to open my garage doors. We carefully followed the instructions and at first it worked, the door went up and down and I headed home. Yet the next time we tried it neither her remote or the car one would touch the door. We tried over and over to program it but to no avail. Finally I decided to make sure the path between the little red and green lights at the bottom of the door that reverse the door if there is any obstruction. Amazingly we had shifted an old motorbike just enough that its tire was in the way of the beam. When I shoved it in suddenly the door worked for both remotes and we finally had the success we were seeking. Now I'm home beginning to write an appraisal I started much earlier in the day.
Late this afternoon both Kallie and Keanna were here for a bit until their mother picked them up. They are so much fun. I know for those of you who have little ones you get bored reading about mine and for those of you who do not yet have the blessing well you just can't know how much total joy it is.
So I bid each of you a good night.
Love
tim
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Looking up, just a bit
Dear Family and Friends,
So here I am at the old computer 24 hours later than last time. I will share this, my life is usually not boring in any way, lonely sometimes, but not boring.
Since Ken had a alleged meeting this morning I walked by myself. The walk did lift my spirits which had been troubled all night, it was a warm night and not wanting to spend the money for the little AC I just slept warm. Starr was very displeased with the temperature and could not settle down either. I was awake many times with thoughts of despair filling my mind.
After the walk I came back and made oatmeal, toast and had some very good fruit. Then I sat to work but before long the course of the day changed. Jason and Jo made contact and wanted to see if meeting for lunch somewhere half way sounded good. Well getting to see my kids and Timothy is always a great idea so we med at a Vegan place in Milpitas which was very good and crowded. Once we finished eating we moved things from car to car and they headed back and I headed to a 3 pm appointment in Oakland to see a vacant lot. I arrived early and so had the owner. We discussed the needed report and he paid me in CASH, that felt very good. For the next two hours I drove all over Oakland shooting comparables and hoping I could be back for spin class. Well terrible traffic took care of that.
Just before I left to meet Jason and Jo a rush order came in complete with credit card information. I needed to see the property today and have the report completed by tomorrow. Only problem was, how to get in? My MLS electronic key only opens homes in my area, not in San Joaquin and to get one for that area would mean hundreds of additional dollars to join the board and get the key. I've not felt I could do that yet. So as I drove I called the agents involved and finally lined up a very nice agent who opened the door for me this evening. So when I left Oakland I drove directly to Mountain House, inspected the house and finally arrived home. Needless to say I am very tired tonight but also very pleased. This afternoon my friend from Sierra Pacific Home Loans called to ask if I could do a rush in Brentwood, well I guess you can imagine my response, YES. While I don't have that order in hand yet it is coming tomorrow so an orderless week has turned around for the good.
So this evening I'm sending you my very best counsel, hang on God is not through yet.
Love
tim
PS I just started the dryer and it sounds terrible, friends are saying give up and buy a new one and I may need to do that but I'm going to take at least one more try at fixing it, after all it opens up very easily and I'm sort of learning my way around inside now.
So here I am at the old computer 24 hours later than last time. I will share this, my life is usually not boring in any way, lonely sometimes, but not boring.
Since Ken had a alleged meeting this morning I walked by myself. The walk did lift my spirits which had been troubled all night, it was a warm night and not wanting to spend the money for the little AC I just slept warm. Starr was very displeased with the temperature and could not settle down either. I was awake many times with thoughts of despair filling my mind.
After the walk I came back and made oatmeal, toast and had some very good fruit. Then I sat to work but before long the course of the day changed. Jason and Jo made contact and wanted to see if meeting for lunch somewhere half way sounded good. Well getting to see my kids and Timothy is always a great idea so we med at a Vegan place in Milpitas which was very good and crowded. Once we finished eating we moved things from car to car and they headed back and I headed to a 3 pm appointment in Oakland to see a vacant lot. I arrived early and so had the owner. We discussed the needed report and he paid me in CASH, that felt very good. For the next two hours I drove all over Oakland shooting comparables and hoping I could be back for spin class. Well terrible traffic took care of that.
Just before I left to meet Jason and Jo a rush order came in complete with credit card information. I needed to see the property today and have the report completed by tomorrow. Only problem was, how to get in? My MLS electronic key only opens homes in my area, not in San Joaquin and to get one for that area would mean hundreds of additional dollars to join the board and get the key. I've not felt I could do that yet. So as I drove I called the agents involved and finally lined up a very nice agent who opened the door for me this evening. So when I left Oakland I drove directly to Mountain House, inspected the house and finally arrived home. Needless to say I am very tired tonight but also very pleased. This afternoon my friend from Sierra Pacific Home Loans called to ask if I could do a rush in Brentwood, well I guess you can imagine my response, YES. While I don't have that order in hand yet it is coming tomorrow so an orderless week has turned around for the good.
So this evening I'm sending you my very best counsel, hang on God is not through yet.
Love
tim
PS I just started the dryer and it sounds terrible, friends are saying give up and buy a new one and I may need to do that but I'm going to take at least one more try at fixing it, after all it opens up very easily and I'm sort of learning my way around inside now.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The Drought continues.......
Dear Family and Friends,
What a low key day today has been. This morning I assisted with the girls, got them fed, dressed, shoes and sox's on, sort of matching outfits, well that until Nikki came home and saw Kallie and burst into laughter at what I had dressed her in, oh well she was dressed at least. Being very low on diesel I stopped in Brentwood this morning to fill it up with the girls in the car. The thought of running out of fuel with the tykes on board was to horrible. I had only traveled 550 miles on this tank but the diesel was $3.13 a gallon which was a full 18 cents cheaper than my station.
Once I signed Keanna in for her day of rock climbing, craft making, song singing and general fun I turned to getting Kallie to her sitters for the day. I had committed the unthinkable in that I left her pink security blanket at home, that caused some anxiety at nap time, got to do better next time.
I came home and worked on getting on some new lists for obtaining work. I also worked on and completed an appraisal for a set of lawyers for a divorce. Later I delivered on of the appraisals and picked up a check, the other check will come later I guess.
Taking time for lunch I made a salad with some absolutely wonderful cherry tomatoes Steve had shared with me, they are incredible and the salad was perfect with a few pinto beans, the tomatoes and the lettuce mix. I also warmed up a couple potato patties and had broccoli warmed in the microwave. It was a fine lunch and I enjoyed it.
At 2 I had to go back to Brentwood to collect Keanna from camp. On the way home we went to the post office, bank, Blockbusters to rent a movie for her to watch and Safeway for Jello. We finally arrived at home but she was engrossed in her Strawberry Shortcake Movie which had a very cute story line about caring for each other. She downed a large sack of healthy popcorn (no butter) and then it was time to pick up Kallie and deliver them both to their parents. They were very happy to see their mom and were bound for VBS in Tracy tonight where Nikki is helping out.
Once I was free of my little darlings I came home and worked a bit more. Then I climbed up the motorhome and installed the new life time warranty vent over the bathroom. The cheap ones keep failing and blowing away. This one is built of sturdy stuff but in spite of having instructions written in three languages on the box none of them were in English. Its a good think I've done this many times before so I didn't need to learn how. What a world we live in, who knows where it was made, certainly not America which is too bad.
I am very careful once I'm on the top of the motorhome as it would be very very easy to tumble off and crash to the concrete below. That could be life threatening. I was very relieved to once again feel my feet on the driveway and have the job done.
Then trying to fight depression from another day with no work, no emails about work, no phone calls regarding work, its like I retired but no one told me. So decided to head to town once again to find a bulb for my desk lamp, a little 20 watt 12 volt lamp for my Tensor lamp and go work out at the club. Ace hardware had the bulb and an ice cream sandwich! Then I went to the club and worked muscles until they burned and complained. Once finished with my routine I am now home with the day behind me. Tomorrow I'll try to meet the owner of a empty lot in Oakland, he needs to know the value for his upcoming bankruptcy proceeding and hopefully see a rental property in Brentwood. So far the tenant is not reachable.
Please pray that God will provide the work He wants me to have.
I spoke to Bob a little while ago and Carol has been moved to a rehab hospital which is located near the hospital where her surgery was done. She may have to be there for up to a month as she makes her body move again. She faces a tough time but her attitude is very good. She and Bob were working to make the bed sort of comfortable so she could get some rest. He was on his third trip home to get more pillows and supplies. They are a wonderful caring couple and a real inspiration to the rest of us. They can certainly use our prayers as well.
So my friends as the world slowly turns there is not a lot of excitement or bubbly joy at my house. The kidos are such a blessing in that they laugh, smile, love and enjoy life a lot. Its catching and that's a very good thing.
Love
tim
What a low key day today has been. This morning I assisted with the girls, got them fed, dressed, shoes and sox's on, sort of matching outfits, well that until Nikki came home and saw Kallie and burst into laughter at what I had dressed her in, oh well she was dressed at least. Being very low on diesel I stopped in Brentwood this morning to fill it up with the girls in the car. The thought of running out of fuel with the tykes on board was to horrible. I had only traveled 550 miles on this tank but the diesel was $3.13 a gallon which was a full 18 cents cheaper than my station.
Once I signed Keanna in for her day of rock climbing, craft making, song singing and general fun I turned to getting Kallie to her sitters for the day. I had committed the unthinkable in that I left her pink security blanket at home, that caused some anxiety at nap time, got to do better next time.
I came home and worked on getting on some new lists for obtaining work. I also worked on and completed an appraisal for a set of lawyers for a divorce. Later I delivered on of the appraisals and picked up a check, the other check will come later I guess.
Taking time for lunch I made a salad with some absolutely wonderful cherry tomatoes Steve had shared with me, they are incredible and the salad was perfect with a few pinto beans, the tomatoes and the lettuce mix. I also warmed up a couple potato patties and had broccoli warmed in the microwave. It was a fine lunch and I enjoyed it.
At 2 I had to go back to Brentwood to collect Keanna from camp. On the way home we went to the post office, bank, Blockbusters to rent a movie for her to watch and Safeway for Jello. We finally arrived at home but she was engrossed in her Strawberry Shortcake Movie which had a very cute story line about caring for each other. She downed a large sack of healthy popcorn (no butter) and then it was time to pick up Kallie and deliver them both to their parents. They were very happy to see their mom and were bound for VBS in Tracy tonight where Nikki is helping out.
Once I was free of my little darlings I came home and worked a bit more. Then I climbed up the motorhome and installed the new life time warranty vent over the bathroom. The cheap ones keep failing and blowing away. This one is built of sturdy stuff but in spite of having instructions written in three languages on the box none of them were in English. Its a good think I've done this many times before so I didn't need to learn how. What a world we live in, who knows where it was made, certainly not America which is too bad.
I am very careful once I'm on the top of the motorhome as it would be very very easy to tumble off and crash to the concrete below. That could be life threatening. I was very relieved to once again feel my feet on the driveway and have the job done.
Then trying to fight depression from another day with no work, no emails about work, no phone calls regarding work, its like I retired but no one told me. So decided to head to town once again to find a bulb for my desk lamp, a little 20 watt 12 volt lamp for my Tensor lamp and go work out at the club. Ace hardware had the bulb and an ice cream sandwich! Then I went to the club and worked muscles until they burned and complained. Once finished with my routine I am now home with the day behind me. Tomorrow I'll try to meet the owner of a empty lot in Oakland, he needs to know the value for his upcoming bankruptcy proceeding and hopefully see a rental property in Brentwood. So far the tenant is not reachable.
Please pray that God will provide the work He wants me to have.
I spoke to Bob a little while ago and Carol has been moved to a rehab hospital which is located near the hospital where her surgery was done. She may have to be there for up to a month as she makes her body move again. She faces a tough time but her attitude is very good. She and Bob were working to make the bed sort of comfortable so she could get some rest. He was on his third trip home to get more pillows and supplies. They are a wonderful caring couple and a real inspiration to the rest of us. They can certainly use our prayers as well.
So my friends as the world slowly turns there is not a lot of excitement or bubbly joy at my house. The kidos are such a blessing in that they laugh, smile, love and enjoy life a lot. Its catching and that's a very good thing.
Love
tim
Monday, June 21, 2010
From the depths
Dear Family and Friends,
This morning was tough to cope with, thank goodness for the kidos who were happy, filled with joy and ready for the day when they woke up. That was a lift. Once I came back home after delivering Keanna at 9 I just felt defeat. I had no new work to schedule, my two main clients who have been there are both gone now, one has moved to ordering cheap BPOs from brokers instead of full appraisals and the other has decided that they have enough appraisers without me. It really was a hard time and I kept going and reading yet another page from the Joel Olsteen book which is all about moving forward in faith and seizing the next opportunity. So even though I did not feel optimistic at all I went through the motions, I searched for new places to get orders, I followed up on any and all leads and I just trusted that God would be there opening doors. At 2 I picked up Keanna from camp and she was full of commentary on camp, singing songs and begging for popcorn. I got her all set up with popcorn, some good programs I had DVRed that were age appropriate for her and then came back to work, within 5 minutes two orders came in over the phone. Neither were from usual sources, both were from local people who had special appraisal needs and both promised to pay COD. What a lift to have 2 new orders to begin to set up, research and plan for.
As of now I've already seen one of the properties and I'll see the other one tomorrow and I was quietly amazed at how God just pulled these out of the air and handed them to me.
I'm not sure how many of you have faced the same situation that I face. Instead of dozens of orders pouring in like in the good old days now they trickle in one at a time and to get two in 5 minutes, well that did tend to get ones attention.
Tonight Nikki drove to Tracy to help with VBS. That makes a very long day for her and Keanna since she has to be on the road at 6:30 in the morning. It is a real commitment and I know the kidos appreciate having her help.
So now its time to wind it down for yet another day. Can I say I am just humble this evening, amazed and ready for the next shoe to drop, well more like the next care package to float in.
Love to all,
Tim
This morning was tough to cope with, thank goodness for the kidos who were happy, filled with joy and ready for the day when they woke up. That was a lift. Once I came back home after delivering Keanna at 9 I just felt defeat. I had no new work to schedule, my two main clients who have been there are both gone now, one has moved to ordering cheap BPOs from brokers instead of full appraisals and the other has decided that they have enough appraisers without me. It really was a hard time and I kept going and reading yet another page from the Joel Olsteen book which is all about moving forward in faith and seizing the next opportunity. So even though I did not feel optimistic at all I went through the motions, I searched for new places to get orders, I followed up on any and all leads and I just trusted that God would be there opening doors. At 2 I picked up Keanna from camp and she was full of commentary on camp, singing songs and begging for popcorn. I got her all set up with popcorn, some good programs I had DVRed that were age appropriate for her and then came back to work, within 5 minutes two orders came in over the phone. Neither were from usual sources, both were from local people who had special appraisal needs and both promised to pay COD. What a lift to have 2 new orders to begin to set up, research and plan for.
As of now I've already seen one of the properties and I'll see the other one tomorrow and I was quietly amazed at how God just pulled these out of the air and handed them to me.
I'm not sure how many of you have faced the same situation that I face. Instead of dozens of orders pouring in like in the good old days now they trickle in one at a time and to get two in 5 minutes, well that did tend to get ones attention.
Tonight Nikki drove to Tracy to help with VBS. That makes a very long day for her and Keanna since she has to be on the road at 6:30 in the morning. It is a real commitment and I know the kidos appreciate having her help.
So now its time to wind it down for yet another day. Can I say I am just humble this evening, amazed and ready for the next shoe to drop, well more like the next care package to float in.
Love to all,
Tim
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Father's day
Yes it happened once again, a day to reflect on the value of fathers, the memory of fathers, the challenge facing today's fathers.
I spent it quietly here working. I took the dogs to the park and they loved the cool morning. Then I made a late breakfast, scrambled eggs with olives, some vege burger, OK but not great. The toast was actually better! Then to work writing reports.
At around 3 I remembered lunch and microwaved veges with cheese sause, along with a potato patty and sliced tomato. Very filling and tasty, both meals eaten on the back deck, need to let the beautiful lake refresh the emotions and lift the somber mood I was in. The mood descended when I realized that I was working on the very last orders I had. You know the old, what is to become of me line of thinking. Fortunately Dolly had sent me a really positive book by Joel Olsteen and reading a bit of that reversed the negative thinking. I've really got to believe that something very good is about to break for the little company.
Late this afternoon as I was working on yet another report I discovered when doing the sketch that the home was much larger than what was reported in public record, also much larger than any of the comparables I had selected and photographed so at 6 this evening I set out for Pinole, about an hours drive, shot the photos and drove back with a short stop at a Taco Bell. I was listening to an interesting book so the trip went quickly. Now I can get the report out in the morning and perhaps impress the lender with this speedy turnaround, perhaps, will they even notice? One can hope.
On the way home I intended to stop at Winco but forgot until I reached our local Safeway so I spent the extra money and did my shopping there. Now I'm sort of set for a few days with grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, salad, juice and string cheese.
In the morning it is my opportunity to be with the kidos so at 6:30 I'll be there waiting for their first waking sounds, then breakfast and then deliver them to their destinations for the day. I just love to observe them when they first wake up, they stretch and search for their first smile of the day.
On my way home Jason called to report on the day. He and family had been at Pebble Beach for the day, had seen all the golf greats battle it out for the win. He said they had been trying to reach their car for over 3 hours and then had the drive home. Seems there are lots of people there to enjoy the day. Timothy talked to me and wished me a Happy Fathers day, earlier the girls had done the same as they drove somewhere. Hearing from the little ones is sure nice, like hearing little angels speak.
Love to all,
Tim
I spent it quietly here working. I took the dogs to the park and they loved the cool morning. Then I made a late breakfast, scrambled eggs with olives, some vege burger, OK but not great. The toast was actually better! Then to work writing reports.
At around 3 I remembered lunch and microwaved veges with cheese sause, along with a potato patty and sliced tomato. Very filling and tasty, both meals eaten on the back deck, need to let the beautiful lake refresh the emotions and lift the somber mood I was in. The mood descended when I realized that I was working on the very last orders I had. You know the old, what is to become of me line of thinking. Fortunately Dolly had sent me a really positive book by Joel Olsteen and reading a bit of that reversed the negative thinking. I've really got to believe that something very good is about to break for the little company.
Late this afternoon as I was working on yet another report I discovered when doing the sketch that the home was much larger than what was reported in public record, also much larger than any of the comparables I had selected and photographed so at 6 this evening I set out for Pinole, about an hours drive, shot the photos and drove back with a short stop at a Taco Bell. I was listening to an interesting book so the trip went quickly. Now I can get the report out in the morning and perhaps impress the lender with this speedy turnaround, perhaps, will they even notice? One can hope.
On the way home I intended to stop at Winco but forgot until I reached our local Safeway so I spent the extra money and did my shopping there. Now I'm sort of set for a few days with grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, salad, juice and string cheese.
In the morning it is my opportunity to be with the kidos so at 6:30 I'll be there waiting for their first waking sounds, then breakfast and then deliver them to their destinations for the day. I just love to observe them when they first wake up, they stretch and search for their first smile of the day.
On my way home Jason called to report on the day. He and family had been at Pebble Beach for the day, had seen all the golf greats battle it out for the win. He said they had been trying to reach their car for over 3 hours and then had the drive home. Seems there are lots of people there to enjoy the day. Timothy talked to me and wished me a Happy Fathers day, earlier the girls had done the same as they drove somewhere. Hearing from the little ones is sure nice, like hearing little angels speak.
Love to all,
Tim
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Excellent day
Dear Family and Friends,
What fun the Sabbath is! Ken and I took our usual walk this morning but found brisk winds and chilly air.
I picked up Keanna who was dressed for Sabbath School and we had a great conversation while we drove to Tracy then after Sabbath School I allowed her to check out a yard sale where she made a purchase that she enjoyed, lots of finger nail polish, trinkets and a little dog. The we met Nikki and Kallie at Olive Garden and using the kind gift Jason and Jo shared last week we had lunch.
After lunch we parted company and I drove to Lodi, found Carol's room and surprised her with a little plant and flower. After a nice conversation in which it became clear that Carol is already on the mend I drove home, took a quick round at the club and then Sylvia called. She had some free time so came out and we sat on the back deck in the wind with blankets and chatted for a bit. Then some nearby weeds that were growing in the pot with the Camilia's drove her to action and she went and pulled out the mullet that the birds had planted. We tweaked plants and moved things about a bit and finally went inside. Sylvia headed home and I found the house so cold I built a fire and watched Sherlock Holmes while sipping a mocha.
Now its bedtime and the rest of the Sherlock Holmes is going on the DVR.
Its been a great day and I enjoyed seeing my kidos, Nikki, my friends at Sabbath School, Carol and then Sylvia. Friends are the true riches of our adult lives so I had a rich day for sure.
Love
tim
What fun the Sabbath is! Ken and I took our usual walk this morning but found brisk winds and chilly air.
I picked up Keanna who was dressed for Sabbath School and we had a great conversation while we drove to Tracy then after Sabbath School I allowed her to check out a yard sale where she made a purchase that she enjoyed, lots of finger nail polish, trinkets and a little dog. The we met Nikki and Kallie at Olive Garden and using the kind gift Jason and Jo shared last week we had lunch.
After lunch we parted company and I drove to Lodi, found Carol's room and surprised her with a little plant and flower. After a nice conversation in which it became clear that Carol is already on the mend I drove home, took a quick round at the club and then Sylvia called. She had some free time so came out and we sat on the back deck in the wind with blankets and chatted for a bit. Then some nearby weeds that were growing in the pot with the Camilia's drove her to action and she went and pulled out the mullet that the birds had planted. We tweaked plants and moved things about a bit and finally went inside. Sylvia headed home and I found the house so cold I built a fire and watched Sherlock Holmes while sipping a mocha.
Now its bedtime and the rest of the Sherlock Holmes is going on the DVR.
Its been a great day and I enjoyed seeing my kidos, Nikki, my friends at Sabbath School, Carol and then Sylvia. Friends are the true riches of our adult lives so I had a rich day for sure.
Love
tim
Friday, June 18, 2010
Report from Lodi Memorial
Good evening,
Its 10:40 and I'm just back from being with Bob as he waited in the waiting room. Pam Whitted came to sit with us and together we helped the time pass. The 1 hour surgery turned into more like 3 hours but when I left we had just been allowed into the recovery room and Carol was talking and had come through the process very well. The surgeon said it was a tough break and took a while to get fixed correctly but he anticipates that in a month she will be well along on her way to recovery. I a few days she will move across the street to a recovery facility where she knows many of the people. She was a home health nurse for many many years in the Lodi area and even her recovery nurse used to work with her in the past. Bob is holding up well and was headed home to pick up a few things that Carol needed and then was coming back to sleep in the room in a special chair that becomes a narrow bed. He knows about keeping an eye on the entire program, no one knows Carol better than he or cares more.
Bob wanted to make sure you knew how much he appreciated your prayers for Carol this afternoon and evening. She has a long ways to go before being mobile again but knowing Carol it will be sooner than anyone expects.
Love
tim
Its 10:40 and I'm just back from being with Bob as he waited in the waiting room. Pam Whitted came to sit with us and together we helped the time pass. The 1 hour surgery turned into more like 3 hours but when I left we had just been allowed into the recovery room and Carol was talking and had come through the process very well. The surgeon said it was a tough break and took a while to get fixed correctly but he anticipates that in a month she will be well along on her way to recovery. I a few days she will move across the street to a recovery facility where she knows many of the people. She was a home health nurse for many many years in the Lodi area and even her recovery nurse used to work with her in the past. Bob is holding up well and was headed home to pick up a few things that Carol needed and then was coming back to sleep in the room in a special chair that becomes a narrow bed. He knows about keeping an eye on the entire program, no one knows Carol better than he or cares more.
Bob wanted to make sure you knew how much he appreciated your prayers for Carol this afternoon and evening. She has a long ways to go before being mobile again but knowing Carol it will be sooner than anyone expects.
Love
tim
Carol Sorenson in surgery
Dear Family and Friends,
One of our best friends Carol fell last night. She is just completing a round of chemo and certainly did not need this new challenge. As I write, 6 pm Friday evening she is in surgery in Lodi at Lodi Memorial Hospital. I'm heading there now to sit with Bob for a few minutes. Please pray for Carol. The break is a clean one and will require a rod to be inserted not a new hip joint, this is per Bob a few minutes ago.
Thanks, Bob is asking that we pray and so we shall.
Tim
One of our best friends Carol fell last night. She is just completing a round of chemo and certainly did not need this new challenge. As I write, 6 pm Friday evening she is in surgery in Lodi at Lodi Memorial Hospital. I'm heading there now to sit with Bob for a few minutes. Please pray for Carol. The break is a clean one and will require a rod to be inserted not a new hip joint, this is per Bob a few minutes ago.
Thanks, Bob is asking that we pray and so we shall.
Tim
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Good news
Dear Family and Friends,
Its 9:50 and I'm shocked at how fast the evening has passed.
This morning I was determined to get the walk in and once it was over I turned to the partially completed task of replacing the fan blower for the VW. Parts were strewn all over the floor on the passenger side of the car and there was no good way to position my body to avoid pain. I knew I needed to locate two more little bolts that would release the broken blower and after twisting my head nearly backwards I located them, found the right socket, a 6 mm and suddenly the blower was falling out as promised. Then I opened the box with the new blower which had been purchased via the Internet and began the reverse process of reassembly. With minor grunts and groans the parts began to fit back together and within an hour it was all back together and working perfectly. Here are the facts. I paid about $67 total for the new blower while VW offered it for $281 plus shop time to install it. So I figure that I saved over $300 by doing it myself. I also have the satisfaction of knowing the projects like this are worth taking on and winning.
After finishing the blower installation breakfast was next, then a shower, then some face time at the computer. Knowing that the bug was quite illegal to drive since it had not passed smog yet I decided to take on that challenge next. I called a person I had met while doing an appraisal who I knew owned a shop in Concord and he agreed to see the car. So in an hour I was there and he hooked it up to his little reading device. 30 seconds later he told me he had turned the fix engine light off and it should now pass smog. He suggested a 76 station nearby that he uses. They agreed to take the car and in 15 minutes announced that it had passed the smog test and I owed them $47. That was a very low figure compared to quotes I had from other places so I paid quickly, said a quiet thank you to Heaven and drove to a 3 pm appointment in nearby Pinole. There I found a beautifully maintained home and a very nice Mexican family, a family that was very excited about a trip to Cancun tomorrow to see family and friends.
Once the appraisal and comps were completed I headed home, faced some traffic, used a 15% discount at Staples to buy a box of paper and a new toner cartridge and then drove on home. It was very nice to be back in the bug again and know I was getting 43 miles per gallon. The blower was silent and powerful as it delivered cool air to the cabin.
Now its bed time once again, tomorrow morning I get to see the kidos since Steve is working with his friends. Then I will head out to a home in San Leandro after which I will come home to work things up. This has been a win win day for which I am very thankful. For you dear friends I am eternally thankful, for you dear family my life is rich due to having you to call my own.
Love
Tim
Its 9:50 and I'm shocked at how fast the evening has passed.
This morning I was determined to get the walk in and once it was over I turned to the partially completed task of replacing the fan blower for the VW. Parts were strewn all over the floor on the passenger side of the car and there was no good way to position my body to avoid pain. I knew I needed to locate two more little bolts that would release the broken blower and after twisting my head nearly backwards I located them, found the right socket, a 6 mm and suddenly the blower was falling out as promised. Then I opened the box with the new blower which had been purchased via the Internet and began the reverse process of reassembly. With minor grunts and groans the parts began to fit back together and within an hour it was all back together and working perfectly. Here are the facts. I paid about $67 total for the new blower while VW offered it for $281 plus shop time to install it. So I figure that I saved over $300 by doing it myself. I also have the satisfaction of knowing the projects like this are worth taking on and winning.
After finishing the blower installation breakfast was next, then a shower, then some face time at the computer. Knowing that the bug was quite illegal to drive since it had not passed smog yet I decided to take on that challenge next. I called a person I had met while doing an appraisal who I knew owned a shop in Concord and he agreed to see the car. So in an hour I was there and he hooked it up to his little reading device. 30 seconds later he told me he had turned the fix engine light off and it should now pass smog. He suggested a 76 station nearby that he uses. They agreed to take the car and in 15 minutes announced that it had passed the smog test and I owed them $47. That was a very low figure compared to quotes I had from other places so I paid quickly, said a quiet thank you to Heaven and drove to a 3 pm appointment in nearby Pinole. There I found a beautifully maintained home and a very nice Mexican family, a family that was very excited about a trip to Cancun tomorrow to see family and friends.
Once the appraisal and comps were completed I headed home, faced some traffic, used a 15% discount at Staples to buy a box of paper and a new toner cartridge and then drove on home. It was very nice to be back in the bug again and know I was getting 43 miles per gallon. The blower was silent and powerful as it delivered cool air to the cabin.
Now its bed time once again, tomorrow morning I get to see the kidos since Steve is working with his friends. Then I will head out to a home in San Leandro after which I will come home to work things up. This has been a win win day for which I am very thankful. For you dear friends I am eternally thankful, for you dear family my life is rich due to having you to call my own.
Love
Tim
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Slipping a bit
Dear Family and Friends,
As I write this evening I find myself in just a bit of a funk, some of the excitement and energy that has driven me since Costa Rica has slipped a bit. Yesterday I really had too much to eat and not the best things either. I know one can't be high all the time but I really don't want to lose the momentum of the last few weeks. One thing that concerns me is the lack of new orders. I know from past years that this time of the year can often produce a slow down in work. I'm well behind where I was last year in orders to date. That is not a good sign.
This morning I got up at 5:30 and came down intending to go for a walk. It never happened. I ended up writing an appraisal which took several hours. Then the appointments I was seeking for today came together and I ended up at Mountain House at 1:30. The home I was there to see was really beautiful. It is nearly 4,000 Sq.Ft. with a complete 475 Sq.Ft. inlaw unit with its own single car garage. The property was nearly a half an acre. The investor had the carpets cleaned well and painted the entire interior of the home professionally. The home is beautiful and perfect. Now of course comparables are always challenging for something like this but I think it will come together all right.
Once I was finished with the Mountain House appraisal I turned Jason's Subaru Forester toward Martinez. Arriving there late afternoon I found a cute little home that had been severely damaged by fire recently and updated. Without the GPS finding the comparables took a bit longer but soon it was completed. Then I went to purchase fuel since the tank was nearly on empty. Using my debit card for the business I found it was refused. Since I made a large deposit yesterday I found that hard to understand. I had another back up card and that one worked fine. What was even more interesting was 30 minutes later I was at Home Depot and returned a screen door protector that was the wrong size, was given a cash refund and then when I purchased the new larger one the same card worked perfectly. Does someone have an explanation for what took place?
The weather was warm but pleasant today and the entire day was a pleasure. In spite of no checks in today's mail for the most part things are OK. I am currently reading two really interesting books. Being a man you can guess where I keep the books! Joel Olsteen has a new book that Dolly sent me and it is a real spirit lifter. Friend Ron loaned me a book by the author of Men are from Venus and Women are from Mars or do I have that backwards. This book deals with losing someone you love either through death or divorce. So far it is excellent and gives clarity to some of the things I've stumbled through. One thing that is so right is the loss of a special person who is your special person to come home to, to share everything with, who loves you when the whole world goes wrong, to suddenly no longer have that person on your side, by your side and constantly with you, that is a very real part of this whole recovery process.
This afternoon the fan arrived for the VW, now I just need to find the last two bolts that allow the old one to fall out and plug the new one in. Perhaps in the cool morning I'll tackle that right after my walk. Friend Ken is off in the south somewhere consulting with a software company, regarding software that he uses and has had lots of issues with, they tired of his calls and asked him to come back and tell the programmers directly what is wrong. Ken is not shy so I rather think he is enjoying himself on this trip. I miss his walking companionship.
Life is filled with ongoing challenges, friends who are having tough times with jobs, relationships, etc. Life seems to be a mixture of some happy moments, pleasant tastes, beautiful sunsets with crushing defeats, results of aging, disappointments and setbacks.
Wishing all of you the best and thanks for your encouraging emails, they mean a great deal.
Love
tim
As I write this evening I find myself in just a bit of a funk, some of the excitement and energy that has driven me since Costa Rica has slipped a bit. Yesterday I really had too much to eat and not the best things either. I know one can't be high all the time but I really don't want to lose the momentum of the last few weeks. One thing that concerns me is the lack of new orders. I know from past years that this time of the year can often produce a slow down in work. I'm well behind where I was last year in orders to date. That is not a good sign.
This morning I got up at 5:30 and came down intending to go for a walk. It never happened. I ended up writing an appraisal which took several hours. Then the appointments I was seeking for today came together and I ended up at Mountain House at 1:30. The home I was there to see was really beautiful. It is nearly 4,000 Sq.Ft. with a complete 475 Sq.Ft. inlaw unit with its own single car garage. The property was nearly a half an acre. The investor had the carpets cleaned well and painted the entire interior of the home professionally. The home is beautiful and perfect. Now of course comparables are always challenging for something like this but I think it will come together all right.
Once I was finished with the Mountain House appraisal I turned Jason's Subaru Forester toward Martinez. Arriving there late afternoon I found a cute little home that had been severely damaged by fire recently and updated. Without the GPS finding the comparables took a bit longer but soon it was completed. Then I went to purchase fuel since the tank was nearly on empty. Using my debit card for the business I found it was refused. Since I made a large deposit yesterday I found that hard to understand. I had another back up card and that one worked fine. What was even more interesting was 30 minutes later I was at Home Depot and returned a screen door protector that was the wrong size, was given a cash refund and then when I purchased the new larger one the same card worked perfectly. Does someone have an explanation for what took place?
The weather was warm but pleasant today and the entire day was a pleasure. In spite of no checks in today's mail for the most part things are OK. I am currently reading two really interesting books. Being a man you can guess where I keep the books! Joel Olsteen has a new book that Dolly sent me and it is a real spirit lifter. Friend Ron loaned me a book by the author of Men are from Venus and Women are from Mars or do I have that backwards. This book deals with losing someone you love either through death or divorce. So far it is excellent and gives clarity to some of the things I've stumbled through. One thing that is so right is the loss of a special person who is your special person to come home to, to share everything with, who loves you when the whole world goes wrong, to suddenly no longer have that person on your side, by your side and constantly with you, that is a very real part of this whole recovery process.
This afternoon the fan arrived for the VW, now I just need to find the last two bolts that allow the old one to fall out and plug the new one in. Perhaps in the cool morning I'll tackle that right after my walk. Friend Ken is off in the south somewhere consulting with a software company, regarding software that he uses and has had lots of issues with, they tired of his calls and asked him to come back and tell the programmers directly what is wrong. Ken is not shy so I rather think he is enjoying himself on this trip. I miss his walking companionship.
Life is filled with ongoing challenges, friends who are having tough times with jobs, relationships, etc. Life seems to be a mixture of some happy moments, pleasant tastes, beautiful sunsets with crushing defeats, results of aging, disappointments and setbacks.
Wishing all of you the best and thanks for your encouraging emails, they mean a great deal.
Love
tim
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Its a great time of year.......
Love these days with cool breezes blowing, sunshine, tomatoes growing like weeds, flowers blooming and little kidos happy. Pretty good stuff.
This morning while the little ones slept I used Nikki's laptop to order a new vent for the motorhome, seems the ones I keep buying fail about once a year, I've replaced many so far. We on the web I discovered for a little more I could purchase one with a life time warranty, now that sounds good as i don't really enjoy walking around on the roof of the motorhome any more often than I have to. Love this web stuff, you search, you buy, they ship and before long it is at the front door.
Then when it was time for the kidos to wake I whipped up the Belgium Waffles and they enjoyed eating something different for breakfast. Both Kallie and Keanna were in great moods today which makes it even more fun to play with them. Finally it was time to load up and today I delivered Kallie first, then took Keanna to the Diamond Gym where her week long summer camp takes place. She loves it and you'd better get that hug as she is leaving the car because she is gone once you are inside.
Once the kidos were delivered I came home and went to work. During the day a couple orders came in and I was able to write about three to deliver via the Internet. The weather made the day so pleasant and cool breezes were blowing through most of the day. This morning I had a lengthy call with my sister Sibyl who lives in Ohio and is now living in a rehab hospital for a little while. Her health problems are pretty serious but she is always filled with such good cheer when we talk. Having conversations with her and Jerry sure take me back to my childhood. I came along later after my parents had mellowed a lot so of course they wrongly remember that I got away with a lot of things that they did not get away with. Its true to they took the breaks for me and the folks had learned how to deal with quality when I came along, they always said that they could reason with me when Jerry and Sibyl were more stubborn, who knows but it was fine for me coming later.
So this day has been one of production, fun with the kids, fun on the phone with family and friends, good meals and even a Starbucks stop this morning. Who can complain.
Sending love to all,
Tim
This morning while the little ones slept I used Nikki's laptop to order a new vent for the motorhome, seems the ones I keep buying fail about once a year, I've replaced many so far. We on the web I discovered for a little more I could purchase one with a life time warranty, now that sounds good as i don't really enjoy walking around on the roof of the motorhome any more often than I have to. Love this web stuff, you search, you buy, they ship and before long it is at the front door.
Then when it was time for the kidos to wake I whipped up the Belgium Waffles and they enjoyed eating something different for breakfast. Both Kallie and Keanna were in great moods today which makes it even more fun to play with them. Finally it was time to load up and today I delivered Kallie first, then took Keanna to the Diamond Gym where her week long summer camp takes place. She loves it and you'd better get that hug as she is leaving the car because she is gone once you are inside.
Once the kidos were delivered I came home and went to work. During the day a couple orders came in and I was able to write about three to deliver via the Internet. The weather made the day so pleasant and cool breezes were blowing through most of the day. This morning I had a lengthy call with my sister Sibyl who lives in Ohio and is now living in a rehab hospital for a little while. Her health problems are pretty serious but she is always filled with such good cheer when we talk. Having conversations with her and Jerry sure take me back to my childhood. I came along later after my parents had mellowed a lot so of course they wrongly remember that I got away with a lot of things that they did not get away with. Its true to they took the breaks for me and the folks had learned how to deal with quality when I came along, they always said that they could reason with me when Jerry and Sibyl were more stubborn, who knows but it was fine for me coming later.
So this day has been one of production, fun with the kids, fun on the phone with family and friends, good meals and even a Starbucks stop this morning. Who can complain.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Monday, June 14, 2010
Productive day, it would have been our 39th Anniversary today.
It all started with waking up early, before the alarm could do its job. I slowly rolled out, showered, led the doggies downstairs, ate a quick breakfast and then drove to take over at the Shipley house so Nikki could leave for work. She cautioned me that Kallie might not wake at her normal time. No kidding, at 8:20 she finally announced that she was awake and ready for some attention. I let her help me wake keanna who was sleeping soundly as well.
We had a quick run by some food and then drove to Black Diamond where Keanna is in summer camp / gymnastics camp this week. She loves it and it keeps her busy and learning up until 4 pm when today her mom picked her up. After we dropped Keanna off then Kallie and I drove to her baby sitters, a lovely couple who just love kids and run a really good daycare. They play, eat, sleep and learn things.
After dropping Kallie off I came back home / office and finished writing an appraisal that was needed, a little condo in South San Francisco for just $345,000, a real bargain.
Once I completed the appraisal I had lunch which was salad and a rye toast. Then I checked the mail and was overwhelmed with two checks that totalled a house payment. That was very good news. I set out for Concord to see a little condo, this one is going for $115,000, can we say location location location. Once finished with the condo I headed home using the back roads through the hills. Then per Nikki's suggestion I went to the gym first since I was ahead of schedule and did a full blown workout, oh I will be sore in the morning.
The next stop was Weight Watchers and once again I was rewarded with weight loss. I have now lost an official 17 lbs. I wonder how much better I would do if I journaled what I was eating all the time like one is supposed to do per the Weight Watchers program. Guess I'd better get with it and dump some serious weight. And yes I can certainly tell that I've lost the weight. Size 36 pants now fit perfectly and for the first time in nearly three years. I think Nan would have been very delighted with this progress.
From time to time I've paused in my thinking to reflect on different points in our married life. I remember our cross country trips to the seminary, to Texas, to Canada, Mexico, our cruises to Alaska, Mexico, Caribbean from both Galveston and Miami, our many hours of listening to books together as we drove places, our weekend get aways to Vegas or Tahoe and how much we loved to go to the cabin, Barb and Gerry's little paradise up at Tahoe. We had a normal life, high points, low points but we really clung to each other and needed all the love we could count on during the final years. I do not regret one minute with Nan, she was a one of a kind woman and a treasure to my heart. I am thankful God led us together, held us together and watched over it all.
Good night my friend, my family,
love
tim
We had a quick run by some food and then drove to Black Diamond where Keanna is in summer camp / gymnastics camp this week. She loves it and it keeps her busy and learning up until 4 pm when today her mom picked her up. After we dropped Keanna off then Kallie and I drove to her baby sitters, a lovely couple who just love kids and run a really good daycare. They play, eat, sleep and learn things.
After dropping Kallie off I came back home / office and finished writing an appraisal that was needed, a little condo in South San Francisco for just $345,000, a real bargain.
Once I completed the appraisal I had lunch which was salad and a rye toast. Then I checked the mail and was overwhelmed with two checks that totalled a house payment. That was very good news. I set out for Concord to see a little condo, this one is going for $115,000, can we say location location location. Once finished with the condo I headed home using the back roads through the hills. Then per Nikki's suggestion I went to the gym first since I was ahead of schedule and did a full blown workout, oh I will be sore in the morning.
The next stop was Weight Watchers and once again I was rewarded with weight loss. I have now lost an official 17 lbs. I wonder how much better I would do if I journaled what I was eating all the time like one is supposed to do per the Weight Watchers program. Guess I'd better get with it and dump some serious weight. And yes I can certainly tell that I've lost the weight. Size 36 pants now fit perfectly and for the first time in nearly three years. I think Nan would have been very delighted with this progress.
From time to time I've paused in my thinking to reflect on different points in our married life. I remember our cross country trips to the seminary, to Texas, to Canada, Mexico, our cruises to Alaska, Mexico, Caribbean from both Galveston and Miami, our many hours of listening to books together as we drove places, our weekend get aways to Vegas or Tahoe and how much we loved to go to the cabin, Barb and Gerry's little paradise up at Tahoe. We had a normal life, high points, low points but we really clung to each other and needed all the love we could count on during the final years. I do not regret one minute with Nan, she was a one of a kind woman and a treasure to my heart. I am thankful God led us together, held us together and watched over it all.
Good night my friend, my family,
love
tim
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Timothy comes to lunch
Dear Family and Friends,
So here it is 10 pm on Sunday night and today has been a hot one. I think it reached 95 or so, perhaps the warmest day of this year yet. This morning I went to work on the bug, trying to reach the heater blower assembly to remove it. The instructions were great right up to the moment when the heater blower was to fall out of the dash, it would not fall, not even close so that's where I'm at on the project. The new blower does not arrive until Wednesday or Thursday so I have time to get it figured out.
Jason, Jo and Timothy drove over this morning and we met at Olive Garden in Tracy. Timothy has grown up so much and Jo is showing evidence of our newest little girl in the making. We had a very nice lunch and then we switched cars, they left in the van and I left in Jason's car. I happen to enjoy Jason's car in the same way I enjoyed driving Steve's car, both have automatic transmissions and drive very nicely.
I came back home and started work on an appraisal of a condo over in South San Francisco. Then at 6 I inspected a house for a divorce settlement. What a nice place. The renters have it decorated in a beautiful manner and are very sweet people. The lady of the house helped me at Bank of the West when I closed out Nan's remaining balance in her account and was very nice at that time. The two adult kids work at the club and I know them from there, they are also kind and thoughtful. Its a small world here in Discovery Bay.
After completing that assignment I decided to go grocery shopping and $60 something later I came home with 5 sacks of much needed items.
In the morning I get to spend time with the kidos again as Steve has an early job so I'll be at their home at 6:25 in the morning. Needless to say I'm heading to bed now, the alarm will be unwelcome when it goes off.
Love to all,
Tim
So here it is 10 pm on Sunday night and today has been a hot one. I think it reached 95 or so, perhaps the warmest day of this year yet. This morning I went to work on the bug, trying to reach the heater blower assembly to remove it. The instructions were great right up to the moment when the heater blower was to fall out of the dash, it would not fall, not even close so that's where I'm at on the project. The new blower does not arrive until Wednesday or Thursday so I have time to get it figured out.
Jason, Jo and Timothy drove over this morning and we met at Olive Garden in Tracy. Timothy has grown up so much and Jo is showing evidence of our newest little girl in the making. We had a very nice lunch and then we switched cars, they left in the van and I left in Jason's car. I happen to enjoy Jason's car in the same way I enjoyed driving Steve's car, both have automatic transmissions and drive very nicely.
I came back home and started work on an appraisal of a condo over in South San Francisco. Then at 6 I inspected a house for a divorce settlement. What a nice place. The renters have it decorated in a beautiful manner and are very sweet people. The lady of the house helped me at Bank of the West when I closed out Nan's remaining balance in her account and was very nice at that time. The two adult kids work at the club and I know them from there, they are also kind and thoughtful. Its a small world here in Discovery Bay.
After completing that assignment I decided to go grocery shopping and $60 something later I came home with 5 sacks of much needed items.
In the morning I get to spend time with the kidos again as Steve has an early job so I'll be at their home at 6:25 in the morning. Needless to say I'm heading to bed now, the alarm will be unwelcome when it goes off.
Love to all,
Tim
Saturday, June 12, 2010
The girls go to Sabbath School
Good evening,
This morning was already a bit warm and very windy when I trudged around the lake. Then a quick breakfast and off to collect the little ladies. They were wall to wall smiles as we drove to Tracy. Keanna decided to assist with Kallie in the little people room and we ended up having an excellent time. Kallie certainly has things she enjoys, after the program was over she said rock and we all knew what that meant. We pulled out the sturdy blanket, she climbed on and we rocked her back and forth, she loves it and had a hard time letting others take turns. Kim did an excellent job as usual and Emily provided the music.
After a quick stop at McDonalds we headed home and Kallie was finally asleep when we arrived. Daddy Steve did his excellent job of getting her out of the seat and up into her bed without waking her, how does he do that and with a bad back to make it even harder. Keanna and I played with her huge doll house, she did the work and I got to make nice comments and then I drifted home for a nap. I tried the Christian Satellite and found that they moved all the programming to a different satellite than before so I could get nothing. Finally I came in and checked it out on the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network and they had a detailed set of instructions in how to move the dish so it could get the new satellite. Well two hours later and with dozens of trips in and out of the house I still had not found the right place in the sky. Finally Ray came over and we found a spot which looked like it would work, however the signal was just too weak and the picture was scrambled so I need help getting this thing pointed correctly. I really really don't like to give up on a project but after over two hours I had to give up on it for now.
I'm just back now from eating a piece of banana nut bread over at Ray and Lois's place, now its time to wind it up and head to bed. High point of tomorrow will be a lunch with Jason, Jo, Timothy at Tracy Olive Garden where we will do a trade, my van for his Subaru. Family is coming to visit and the van will hold them all. I love it when the kids can use and van and enjoy it. I love it a lot.
Well I'm one chapter into a book that Ron shared with me and so far it is great. I have three books that I am going to read over the next week or so. I'm looking forward to each one and I'll give a review once I'm done or at least well into them.
So my friends, love to all
Tim
This morning was already a bit warm and very windy when I trudged around the lake. Then a quick breakfast and off to collect the little ladies. They were wall to wall smiles as we drove to Tracy. Keanna decided to assist with Kallie in the little people room and we ended up having an excellent time. Kallie certainly has things she enjoys, after the program was over she said rock and we all knew what that meant. We pulled out the sturdy blanket, she climbed on and we rocked her back and forth, she loves it and had a hard time letting others take turns. Kim did an excellent job as usual and Emily provided the music.
After a quick stop at McDonalds we headed home and Kallie was finally asleep when we arrived. Daddy Steve did his excellent job of getting her out of the seat and up into her bed without waking her, how does he do that and with a bad back to make it even harder. Keanna and I played with her huge doll house, she did the work and I got to make nice comments and then I drifted home for a nap. I tried the Christian Satellite and found that they moved all the programming to a different satellite than before so I could get nothing. Finally I came in and checked it out on the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network and they had a detailed set of instructions in how to move the dish so it could get the new satellite. Well two hours later and with dozens of trips in and out of the house I still had not found the right place in the sky. Finally Ray came over and we found a spot which looked like it would work, however the signal was just too weak and the picture was scrambled so I need help getting this thing pointed correctly. I really really don't like to give up on a project but after over two hours I had to give up on it for now.
I'm just back now from eating a piece of banana nut bread over at Ray and Lois's place, now its time to wind it up and head to bed. High point of tomorrow will be a lunch with Jason, Jo, Timothy at Tracy Olive Garden where we will do a trade, my van for his Subaru. Family is coming to visit and the van will hold them all. I love it when the kids can use and van and enjoy it. I love it a lot.
Well I'm one chapter into a book that Ron shared with me and so far it is great. I have three books that I am going to read over the next week or so. I'm looking forward to each one and I'll give a review once I'm done or at least well into them.
So my friends, love to all
Tim
Friday, June 11, 2010
This thing we call life
Well another week under the belt and one wonders what was accomplished. Were the days, the hours just spent or were they invested in creating happiness, success, joy, peace, prosperity or were they just frittered away? Some of both I suppose.
This evening as I turned on the christian dish I found to my dismay that it now gets no stations at all. Seems something changed when I was not watching and now I'll get to scramble to find out what to do. I know there were these warnings on the bottom of the programing for the last several weeks I was watching, perhaps they would be good to observe.
A minor crisis today is I can't locate my IPOD. I'm trying to remember where I had it last and so far, no luck. I can remember it sitting in the console of the VW but now where is it? I love my IPOD and asked Lois to load some new books on it for me and then realized I didn't know where it was. Yikes, I am so forgetful these days.
I'm looking forward to taking my precious little kidos to Sabbath School in the morning, I have not seen them all week and I'm in withdrawal. Hope they have not grown up too much since I saw them last.
This evening it is very hot here in Discovery Bay, after 24 hours of intense winds it has now grown calm and very very hot, could be an interesting night.
Wishing each of you an enjoyable Sabbath / weekend with family, a good book, a time to recharge.
Love
tim
This evening as I turned on the christian dish I found to my dismay that it now gets no stations at all. Seems something changed when I was not watching and now I'll get to scramble to find out what to do. I know there were these warnings on the bottom of the programing for the last several weeks I was watching, perhaps they would be good to observe.
A minor crisis today is I can't locate my IPOD. I'm trying to remember where I had it last and so far, no luck. I can remember it sitting in the console of the VW but now where is it? I love my IPOD and asked Lois to load some new books on it for me and then realized I didn't know where it was. Yikes, I am so forgetful these days.
I'm looking forward to taking my precious little kidos to Sabbath School in the morning, I have not seen them all week and I'm in withdrawal. Hope they have not grown up too much since I saw them last.
This evening it is very hot here in Discovery Bay, after 24 hours of intense winds it has now grown calm and very very hot, could be an interesting night.
Wishing each of you an enjoyable Sabbath / weekend with family, a good book, a time to recharge.
Love
tim
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Mellow day
Good evening
Some days seem to be light fireworks, something shooting up, something loud happening and then others just quietly move along like a great conveyor belt, today is the belt. Ken was tied up in work this morning so I walked alone, that is a different mind set than in the past but walking has become a friend, something to be welcomed and this morning I even tried a few jogging minutes and survived that too. It was a splendid morning, cold, chilly, windy and it felt like the beach, very nice.
After a nice long shower breakfast slipped by, the meds went in and I commuted to the office, about 20 steps away, there was no traffic and all systems were go.
While I was doing research for the morning appointment in Hayward a new order came in by fax, always a welcome event, new orders I went ahead and worked that one up as well.
Before letting the day slip away I left for Hayward where a lockbox gave me access. For this one I just put in a 4 number code, the door opened and there was a single key. The home had been mostly updated, had a corner setting and yielded to my inspection without a whimper. After a few minutes of driving passed I had all the comparables shot and headed back to the office.
Arriving back around 1 pm I napped and then began the tedious process of writing a report that was due tomorrow at 3 pm. I was completed by 4 pm today and having submitted that one the front yard beckoned to me, it was like a field of hay. First I fought the edger into life and edged the boundaries, then I started the mower only to discover the top of the grass catcher had given way. What to do, freshly clipped grass was blowing right into my face. Lois had come to supervise and was sitting on a chair in the driveway, she suggested duct tape and I laughed it off at first, having no other better idea I found the roll of duct tape and started applying the tape. I had no hope that it would hold the top on the bag but when I started the mower it did hold and it is still holding now. I was able to render the lawn back to a more respectable height. What a difference a few minutes makes.
She also helped me back the motorhome in to the driveway so I could dump the tanks using a cleanout I had installed when the house was built years ago. By having her help I did not run into the house as I was backing up.
Later in the afternoon after the work was completed we went to Subway where she treated me to a vege sandwich on wheat bread. During the day I've done loads of wash but oh the dryer, it still needs major help. It squeaks and groans all the while drying the clothes very quickly. Perhaps after I open it up once more and look closer I can find out why it sounds so bad, I have noticed that new dryers sure look good in the stores now but who can afford that?
So this mellow day draws to a close, the weather has been cool and friendly, the food I've had today has been great what is not to like about this life.
Love
tim
Some days seem to be light fireworks, something shooting up, something loud happening and then others just quietly move along like a great conveyor belt, today is the belt. Ken was tied up in work this morning so I walked alone, that is a different mind set than in the past but walking has become a friend, something to be welcomed and this morning I even tried a few jogging minutes and survived that too. It was a splendid morning, cold, chilly, windy and it felt like the beach, very nice.
After a nice long shower breakfast slipped by, the meds went in and I commuted to the office, about 20 steps away, there was no traffic and all systems were go.
While I was doing research for the morning appointment in Hayward a new order came in by fax, always a welcome event, new orders I went ahead and worked that one up as well.
Before letting the day slip away I left for Hayward where a lockbox gave me access. For this one I just put in a 4 number code, the door opened and there was a single key. The home had been mostly updated, had a corner setting and yielded to my inspection without a whimper. After a few minutes of driving passed I had all the comparables shot and headed back to the office.
Arriving back around 1 pm I napped and then began the tedious process of writing a report that was due tomorrow at 3 pm. I was completed by 4 pm today and having submitted that one the front yard beckoned to me, it was like a field of hay. First I fought the edger into life and edged the boundaries, then I started the mower only to discover the top of the grass catcher had given way. What to do, freshly clipped grass was blowing right into my face. Lois had come to supervise and was sitting on a chair in the driveway, she suggested duct tape and I laughed it off at first, having no other better idea I found the roll of duct tape and started applying the tape. I had no hope that it would hold the top on the bag but when I started the mower it did hold and it is still holding now. I was able to render the lawn back to a more respectable height. What a difference a few minutes makes.
She also helped me back the motorhome in to the driveway so I could dump the tanks using a cleanout I had installed when the house was built years ago. By having her help I did not run into the house as I was backing up.
Later in the afternoon after the work was completed we went to Subway where she treated me to a vege sandwich on wheat bread. During the day I've done loads of wash but oh the dryer, it still needs major help. It squeaks and groans all the while drying the clothes very quickly. Perhaps after I open it up once more and look closer I can find out why it sounds so bad, I have noticed that new dryers sure look good in the stores now but who can afford that?
So this mellow day draws to a close, the weather has been cool and friendly, the food I've had today has been great what is not to like about this life.
Love
tim
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Living the dream
Dear Family and Friends,
Well why not, it might not be everyone's dream, working about 12 hours a day, fitting in tiny meals around work, sitting in a work chair and facing the computer screen, taking phone calls, helping people discover their dream, home ownership, sure could be worse.
Ken and I walked this morning, it was cold and Ken kept reminding me since I went in a tee shirt and shorts and he was in a jacked and hat. But half way round he discovered he was warm and I was fine. We enjoy our route which involves walking down Willow Lake Road to River Lake Road, then turning onto Discovery Bay Blvd. and then walking until we reach Willow Lake Road which is our final leg of the route.
This morning I discovered that my body fat was 36 instead of 44 like it used to be and the weight was down to 218. How happy I'll be when it hits 200 and even more happy when it hits 175, by then I'll be dancing in the streets.
Did I tell you about my misfortune with the straw? I made a nice mocha drink with ice cubes on Sunday, it was so good that I went back for a second one, when I had it made I could not locate my straw so I got another one, then I noticed flakes of red and blue in my drink, then to my horror I realized that I had blended my straw in the second drink and had already downed about 5 ozs of it. I threw the rest out and made a new non plastic drink. So far all I can tell is that I sure spend time in the little room with great results. I do not recommend plastic as a filler for the system.
When Nan looked at me with tears streaming down her face and said, who will take care of you, she had only an inkling of just how bad it would be, yes she did a wonderful job of caring for me over the years and I've made a pretty big mess of it since she is gone. She was right and yet she would be so proud of how things are now with me, I'm eating bread I make myself, I had corn tonight I cooked myself, for breakfast I had stripples I made myself and enjoyed more pineapple I prepared myself. I get to appointments mostly on time, my clothes are clean and hung neatly in three closets, tee shirts and shorts are folded and in drawers in neat stacks. Even the pillows are freshly washed. I have flowers blooming on the back decks, tomatoes are growing, I played music all day today while I worked using the Direct TV receiver. I'm in the best physical shape I've been in for several years and have more strength and endurance. I love caring for the kidos and can do it well including diapers, who doesn't love diapers?
So while there are miles to go before I even think of sleeping life wise still I've made great progress and am loving it. Now I'm starting to turn my attention to the physical world around me, the landscaping of my property is horrible. I need to get things cleaned up, house painted, deck power washed and stained, one section jacked up and resupported under neath, a safety fence installed to keep kidos out of the lake and safe, oh yes there are lots of things to do, then there is that garage and the toys that Nikki played with, the holy land tapes for George to edit, the albums to convert to CD and IPOD. No shortage of projects around here and finally the will and strength to begin facing them.
God has been very patient with me over the years. I am a very faulty human being with lots of past to forgive. I pray and hope that I get a chance on some kind of future when the timing is right. Whatever God is good, humorous and involved. My prayer tonight is that He will bless my kids in the special ways they need right now.
Love to all,
Tim
ps Two rush appraisals came in this afternoon, need to be done by Friday afternoon, that will wake you up for sure. Instead of spin class tonight I was measuring a 3300 sf house in Brentwood.
Well why not, it might not be everyone's dream, working about 12 hours a day, fitting in tiny meals around work, sitting in a work chair and facing the computer screen, taking phone calls, helping people discover their dream, home ownership, sure could be worse.
Ken and I walked this morning, it was cold and Ken kept reminding me since I went in a tee shirt and shorts and he was in a jacked and hat. But half way round he discovered he was warm and I was fine. We enjoy our route which involves walking down Willow Lake Road to River Lake Road, then turning onto Discovery Bay Blvd. and then walking until we reach Willow Lake Road which is our final leg of the route.
This morning I discovered that my body fat was 36 instead of 44 like it used to be and the weight was down to 218. How happy I'll be when it hits 200 and even more happy when it hits 175, by then I'll be dancing in the streets.
Did I tell you about my misfortune with the straw? I made a nice mocha drink with ice cubes on Sunday, it was so good that I went back for a second one, when I had it made I could not locate my straw so I got another one, then I noticed flakes of red and blue in my drink, then to my horror I realized that I had blended my straw in the second drink and had already downed about 5 ozs of it. I threw the rest out and made a new non plastic drink. So far all I can tell is that I sure spend time in the little room with great results. I do not recommend plastic as a filler for the system.
When Nan looked at me with tears streaming down her face and said, who will take care of you, she had only an inkling of just how bad it would be, yes she did a wonderful job of caring for me over the years and I've made a pretty big mess of it since she is gone. She was right and yet she would be so proud of how things are now with me, I'm eating bread I make myself, I had corn tonight I cooked myself, for breakfast I had stripples I made myself and enjoyed more pineapple I prepared myself. I get to appointments mostly on time, my clothes are clean and hung neatly in three closets, tee shirts and shorts are folded and in drawers in neat stacks. Even the pillows are freshly washed. I have flowers blooming on the back decks, tomatoes are growing, I played music all day today while I worked using the Direct TV receiver. I'm in the best physical shape I've been in for several years and have more strength and endurance. I love caring for the kidos and can do it well including diapers, who doesn't love diapers?
So while there are miles to go before I even think of sleeping life wise still I've made great progress and am loving it. Now I'm starting to turn my attention to the physical world around me, the landscaping of my property is horrible. I need to get things cleaned up, house painted, deck power washed and stained, one section jacked up and resupported under neath, a safety fence installed to keep kidos out of the lake and safe, oh yes there are lots of things to do, then there is that garage and the toys that Nikki played with, the holy land tapes for George to edit, the albums to convert to CD and IPOD. No shortage of projects around here and finally the will and strength to begin facing them.
God has been very patient with me over the years. I am a very faulty human being with lots of past to forgive. I pray and hope that I get a chance on some kind of future when the timing is right. Whatever God is good, humorous and involved. My prayer tonight is that He will bless my kids in the special ways they need right now.
Love to all,
Tim
ps Two rush appraisals came in this afternoon, need to be done by Friday afternoon, that will wake you up for sure. Instead of spin class tonight I was measuring a 3300 sf house in Brentwood.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Rat race in high gear
Dear Family and Friends,
What a great day! I had both breakfast and lunch on the back deck. This morning as I munched down my home made break lightly toasted with a sheen of real butter and some cheddar cheese, drank my smoothie filled with freshly cut pineapple and strawberries with a ripe banana and watched the breeze play with the water below by the water a family of geese with little ones were hunting bugs and talking to each other. Fish were swimming and the temperature was just perfect. It was a magic moment.
I finally dragged myself into the office and began to work. A client who was facing her divorce lawyer this morning needed her report. It was long overdue and so after the walk was completed I had sat down and finished the report in time for her to take it with her. That felt good to get it done. And since it was less than she thought value wise and more than he thought value wise I was probably close to being spot on.
Then I sat to work to solve several little problems around the house, the disposal was stuck and that took about 1 second with a nut driver to rock it loose. The kitchen counters looked terrible, loaded with dishes and serving plates so I tackled that as well, then I washed down the tile countertops. I noticed that the pineapple was ready to cut. Having never cut one before I gingerly began the process. It turned out to be much easier than I expected and the fruit is wonderful, almost too ripe the taste is like Costa Rica. I have some saved in the frig for tomorrow and of course used some in the smoothie. Fruit is so wonderful and our bodies just love it. It is not expensive but goes fast so it need to be purchased often. I'm treating myself to a tiny bit of low fat whipped cream on the fruit.
For lunch I found brown rice, pinto beans and some vegeburger. Placed on a paper plate and under cover I warmed them for 1 minutes. Talk about great taste, so yummy. The thing about foods that have lots of fiber and low calories is they fill you, they last and the tend to taste really good.
This evening I had to run to Dublin to see a property and then I found dinner at a place that Nikki suggested. The food was great, I mean really great and the price was reasonable.
Now I'm back home and ready to hit the hay once again. Today I've chased motorhome batteries, lined up how to change the heater fan in the VW with advice found on the web, purchased fish food, ordered meds and done loads of wash from the trip in the motorhome.
All in all its been a great day and the weather is just amazing right now, its so amazing that my brother Jerry even got to plant his garden hoping that the snow and frost are over for the season. I had my first tomato for lunch today off my vines, can we say wow, what tangy taste!
Love
tim
What a great day! I had both breakfast and lunch on the back deck. This morning as I munched down my home made break lightly toasted with a sheen of real butter and some cheddar cheese, drank my smoothie filled with freshly cut pineapple and strawberries with a ripe banana and watched the breeze play with the water below by the water a family of geese with little ones were hunting bugs and talking to each other. Fish were swimming and the temperature was just perfect. It was a magic moment.
I finally dragged myself into the office and began to work. A client who was facing her divorce lawyer this morning needed her report. It was long overdue and so after the walk was completed I had sat down and finished the report in time for her to take it with her. That felt good to get it done. And since it was less than she thought value wise and more than he thought value wise I was probably close to being spot on.
Then I sat to work to solve several little problems around the house, the disposal was stuck and that took about 1 second with a nut driver to rock it loose. The kitchen counters looked terrible, loaded with dishes and serving plates so I tackled that as well, then I washed down the tile countertops. I noticed that the pineapple was ready to cut. Having never cut one before I gingerly began the process. It turned out to be much easier than I expected and the fruit is wonderful, almost too ripe the taste is like Costa Rica. I have some saved in the frig for tomorrow and of course used some in the smoothie. Fruit is so wonderful and our bodies just love it. It is not expensive but goes fast so it need to be purchased often. I'm treating myself to a tiny bit of low fat whipped cream on the fruit.
For lunch I found brown rice, pinto beans and some vegeburger. Placed on a paper plate and under cover I warmed them for 1 minutes. Talk about great taste, so yummy. The thing about foods that have lots of fiber and low calories is they fill you, they last and the tend to taste really good.
This evening I had to run to Dublin to see a property and then I found dinner at a place that Nikki suggested. The food was great, I mean really great and the price was reasonable.
Now I'm back home and ready to hit the hay once again. Today I've chased motorhome batteries, lined up how to change the heater fan in the VW with advice found on the web, purchased fish food, ordered meds and done loads of wash from the trip in the motorhome.
All in all its been a great day and the weather is just amazing right now, its so amazing that my brother Jerry even got to plant his garden hoping that the snow and frost are over for the season. I had my first tomato for lunch today off my vines, can we say wow, what tangy taste!
Love
tim
Monday, June 7, 2010
Thankful for work.
Dear Family and Friends,
Are you happy that the work week has begun again? Of course there is the dynamic duo, Art and Connie, they are staying a couple more days at their RV park along the river up in Oregon, doesn't your heart just go out to them, poor dears!!
Ken and I walked this morning, then I settled in to complete appraisal #3 and then do #4 before leaving for San Francisco to see a condo. It was a very busy morning with many phone calls, orders, questions, free advice etc. And of course those blessed political calls, I've found the stop button for those.
The trip to the city was pleasant, I'm driving Steve's little Honda and it is such a great car, comfortable, quick and a joy to drive. The condo was located fairly near the ocean but does not have a view. From the outside it looked like a confusing mass of angles but once I got to measuring it all came together. A point of life here, so many times from a distance a task just seems impossible but once we wade in and start then it sort of falls into place, at least some of the time that happens. Today was such a day. Once the appraisal was finished I set the GPS for branded and weight watchers meeting. Due to traffic I arrived somewhat late but I'm so glad I went. Today I discovered that I have lost 15.7 lbs so far and that was great news. Another thing that my scales is telling me is that my body fat ratio has moved from 42 to 37. Now I know I have a long ways to go before I'm in the 20s where I belong but I'll take movement and rejoice in it.
So good night all, tomorrow I made the largest one day deposit this year. I've seen nothing for days and then all of a sudden it comes in. I'm just humbled and grateful. Hard work does pay off sometimes.
Love
Tim
Are you happy that the work week has begun again? Of course there is the dynamic duo, Art and Connie, they are staying a couple more days at their RV park along the river up in Oregon, doesn't your heart just go out to them, poor dears!!
Ken and I walked this morning, then I settled in to complete appraisal #3 and then do #4 before leaving for San Francisco to see a condo. It was a very busy morning with many phone calls, orders, questions, free advice etc. And of course those blessed political calls, I've found the stop button for those.
The trip to the city was pleasant, I'm driving Steve's little Honda and it is such a great car, comfortable, quick and a joy to drive. The condo was located fairly near the ocean but does not have a view. From the outside it looked like a confusing mass of angles but once I got to measuring it all came together. A point of life here, so many times from a distance a task just seems impossible but once we wade in and start then it sort of falls into place, at least some of the time that happens. Today was such a day. Once the appraisal was finished I set the GPS for branded and weight watchers meeting. Due to traffic I arrived somewhat late but I'm so glad I went. Today I discovered that I have lost 15.7 lbs so far and that was great news. Another thing that my scales is telling me is that my body fat ratio has moved from 42 to 37. Now I know I have a long ways to go before I'm in the 20s where I belong but I'll take movement and rejoice in it.
So good night all, tomorrow I made the largest one day deposit this year. I've seen nothing for days and then all of a sudden it comes in. I'm just humbled and grateful. Hard work does pay off sometimes.
Love
Tim
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Adventure
Dear Reader,
Friday did not go real well and I finally got out of town with the motorhome, trailer and paddle boat about 7. The trip was going nicely until on a straight stretch of Highway 99 people began passing me and pointing to the trailer. I stopped as quickly as I could and found that I had NO boat, just one strap left hanging. Thinking that the motorists passing by had been concerned about the free strap in the trailer I began to retrace my steps and ended up driving all the way back to Discovery Bay, a 30+ mile detour. I found no boat as I drove and began to steel myself to never seeing it again. I left again from Discovery Bay just before dark, about 8:30 and kept my eyes watching for signs of a crash or a broken paddle boat. When I neared the place where the pointing had taken place I slowed as much as I could without causing a traffic jam. I had talked to God and let Him know I knew this was not a very important thing to be asking about but I also told him I was trying to do a good thing, to share the boat with a lot of people that never got out on the water, well in His humor he suddenly pointed my eyes to a fast passing white streak in the bushes, buried almost totally out of sight. Again I made a hurried stop, got off the highway and began to try to backup in the dark, not such a great idea as the little trailer kept heading for the slow lane of traffic, horns resulted. Finally I stopped, put on the flashers and started walking back with my trusty flashlight until I reached the boat. Expecting to see broken pieces I found instead a boat that appeared to have no damage at all. It was just sitting the weeds having been stopped by them from going 55 mph. I began to pull it out of the weeds and was amazed and thrilled that it appeared to be in good condition. Then I gazed down the road to where the motorhome blinked in the distance. Moving the boat is usually a two person process at least. I was short a person, I silently thanked the good Lord for spin class, for exercises and for better fitness than the old days. I grabbed the boat and started dragging, I would drag as far as my breath would last, then stop and rest, finally after many surges and stops I reached the trailer, stepped right up into it and pulled the boat into place.
Having retrieved it I was not about to let it get away again so I found a new bundle of nylon rope and cut a short piece off the end and lashed the front handle of the boat to the trailer, then I started to lace the rope over the boat and around the arms of the trailer until it was very very secure. Only then did I restart my trip in ernest. From that point on I kept the little TV camera that shows up in the dash on the mirror on so I could see it at every minute. At 11:33 the GPS guided me to my campsite and I backed it in and went to bed after hooking up the electrical power at the post. Of course Sabbath morning I was awake at 6:30 so hoped up, shall we say ambled up and took a nice long walk with the doggies who were more than ready.
Sabbath was a glorious day if a little warm. We had a great breakfast and then attended a Sabbath School in the round with Bruce leading out, then after a break the pastor spoke and that was followed by a baptism in the cold cold lake. It was a short service!
Lunch was produced by everyone and it was incredible. The paddle boat had been unloaded first thing Sabbath morning and it never stopped being used until dark that night. Adults and kids alike had great fun and some went great distances which is no easy process when you are doing it all by cranking your legs.
In the evening after the heat of the day people makes hotdogs and smores over a charcoal fire, sang songs into the night and enjoyed the cool breezes that finally found us.
This morning was another community meal. I try to figure out what I can contribute without causing food poisoning! This morning I broke out the Belgium Waffle maker and made dozens of waffles and at Becky's suggestion used the motorhome oven to keep them warm. They certainly made a hit and were gone long before the meal was. I took fresh strawberries and black berries with whipped cream for a topping.
Knowing I had a full plate of work at home I left after breakfast. The guys helped carry the paddle boat back to the trailer, we lashed it down and the trip home was UNEVENTFUL! Once I got home I did not unpack but came in and went to work on these 4 critical appraisals. As of now I have two gone and will have yet another one finished tonight. The final one will be done in the morning and then I'm off to San Francisco to see a condo at around 1 pm.
This has been one of those quick yet very rewarding escapes from routine. I've just spent a weekend with some of the world's nicest people, kind, funny, devoted, caring and mentally sharp. It was a win win for me as I got to play with my favorite toy again, the motorhome, to share the paddle boat, to get sun burned, well fed and relaxed for the week ahead. Thanks for allowing me two days without a blog. Once I had lost the boat I came very close to just staying home and giving up on the trip, now I'm glad I didn't.
Love to all
Tim
Friday did not go real well and I finally got out of town with the motorhome, trailer and paddle boat about 7. The trip was going nicely until on a straight stretch of Highway 99 people began passing me and pointing to the trailer. I stopped as quickly as I could and found that I had NO boat, just one strap left hanging. Thinking that the motorists passing by had been concerned about the free strap in the trailer I began to retrace my steps and ended up driving all the way back to Discovery Bay, a 30+ mile detour. I found no boat as I drove and began to steel myself to never seeing it again. I left again from Discovery Bay just before dark, about 8:30 and kept my eyes watching for signs of a crash or a broken paddle boat. When I neared the place where the pointing had taken place I slowed as much as I could without causing a traffic jam. I had talked to God and let Him know I knew this was not a very important thing to be asking about but I also told him I was trying to do a good thing, to share the boat with a lot of people that never got out on the water, well in His humor he suddenly pointed my eyes to a fast passing white streak in the bushes, buried almost totally out of sight. Again I made a hurried stop, got off the highway and began to try to backup in the dark, not such a great idea as the little trailer kept heading for the slow lane of traffic, horns resulted. Finally I stopped, put on the flashers and started walking back with my trusty flashlight until I reached the boat. Expecting to see broken pieces I found instead a boat that appeared to have no damage at all. It was just sitting the weeds having been stopped by them from going 55 mph. I began to pull it out of the weeds and was amazed and thrilled that it appeared to be in good condition. Then I gazed down the road to where the motorhome blinked in the distance. Moving the boat is usually a two person process at least. I was short a person, I silently thanked the good Lord for spin class, for exercises and for better fitness than the old days. I grabbed the boat and started dragging, I would drag as far as my breath would last, then stop and rest, finally after many surges and stops I reached the trailer, stepped right up into it and pulled the boat into place.
Having retrieved it I was not about to let it get away again so I found a new bundle of nylon rope and cut a short piece off the end and lashed the front handle of the boat to the trailer, then I started to lace the rope over the boat and around the arms of the trailer until it was very very secure. Only then did I restart my trip in ernest. From that point on I kept the little TV camera that shows up in the dash on the mirror on so I could see it at every minute. At 11:33 the GPS guided me to my campsite and I backed it in and went to bed after hooking up the electrical power at the post. Of course Sabbath morning I was awake at 6:30 so hoped up, shall we say ambled up and took a nice long walk with the doggies who were more than ready.
Sabbath was a glorious day if a little warm. We had a great breakfast and then attended a Sabbath School in the round with Bruce leading out, then after a break the pastor spoke and that was followed by a baptism in the cold cold lake. It was a short service!
Lunch was produced by everyone and it was incredible. The paddle boat had been unloaded first thing Sabbath morning and it never stopped being used until dark that night. Adults and kids alike had great fun and some went great distances which is no easy process when you are doing it all by cranking your legs.
In the evening after the heat of the day people makes hotdogs and smores over a charcoal fire, sang songs into the night and enjoyed the cool breezes that finally found us.
This morning was another community meal. I try to figure out what I can contribute without causing food poisoning! This morning I broke out the Belgium Waffle maker and made dozens of waffles and at Becky's suggestion used the motorhome oven to keep them warm. They certainly made a hit and were gone long before the meal was. I took fresh strawberries and black berries with whipped cream for a topping.
Knowing I had a full plate of work at home I left after breakfast. The guys helped carry the paddle boat back to the trailer, we lashed it down and the trip home was UNEVENTFUL! Once I got home I did not unpack but came in and went to work on these 4 critical appraisals. As of now I have two gone and will have yet another one finished tonight. The final one will be done in the morning and then I'm off to San Francisco to see a condo at around 1 pm.
This has been one of those quick yet very rewarding escapes from routine. I've just spent a weekend with some of the world's nicest people, kind, funny, devoted, caring and mentally sharp. It was a win win for me as I got to play with my favorite toy again, the motorhome, to share the paddle boat, to get sun burned, well fed and relaxed for the week ahead. Thanks for allowing me two days without a blog. Once I had lost the boat I came very close to just staying home and giving up on the trip, now I'm glad I didn't.
Love to all
Tim
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Sometimes I just wonder.........
Dear Friends and Family,
It was just a simple act, having too many things in my hands I reached out the window and put the packet of Niaspan meds on the roof of the van so I could get out. Once out I walked into the house and left them there accidentally. Later in the day I made a snap decision to rush to spin class and using the van I drove away with the package still on the roof. Today as I retraced my path the meds were gone, do you have any idea of how silly that makes me feel, blowing off needed meds. Now I know you've never done anything like that before, just me.
This morning I rolled out and hit the path for the 3 miles marathon. Then I had breakfast, showered and went to work. Nikki emailed to ask if I would like to do lunch at Olive Garden and of course that sounded great. So during the morning I did a desk review of someones appraisal, shipped that out and then drove to Tracy with the girls. We had a nice lunch and then it was back to work again. The afternoon grew warm so I started the little AC that sits in the window of my office and the dogs and I stayed here for the afternoon not wanting to be in the other section of the house where the temp was 80 degrees.
I managed to finish another really challenging appraisal, this one ended up having 8 comparables to try to make sense out of this crazy market. For the last several days I've been on a constant hunt for something to eat, Steve and Nikki gave me several beautiful tomatoes that were left over from the party and I've been eating them in every manner I can find. They are wonderful and one slice covers an entire slice of thin bread.
I was on the receiving end of a very kind gesture today. Dr. Jim set aside some samples of the new medicine that controls blood sugar levels and appetite as well but his office is in Antioch and I knew I needed to get work done today. Lois was going to Kaiser appointment which was near my doctors office so I called this morning rather early to ask if she could help. Turns out she could not sleep much during the night and was still very much asleep when I called, not a good thing to do to a nice neighbor! She consented to picking up the meds and did so this afternoon. What a help that was and tomorrow morning I'll get back on my meds again and see if we can get the appetite controlled again, just in time for the church campout. At some point tomorrow I'll leave for camp McSwain in the motorhome. I'm going to pick up the trailer in the morning to ferry the paddle boat behind the motorhome.
Knowing ahead of time that there is no WiFi anywhere near the camping site I am driving to I need to let you the faithful ready know that I won't be writing again until Sunday evening. So no Friday or Sabbath editions.
So I wish you all a good weekend and my prayer is always that you will care for the things that mean the most to you with your best actions, words and gestures. Love the one you are with with gusto.
Love
tim
It was just a simple act, having too many things in my hands I reached out the window and put the packet of Niaspan meds on the roof of the van so I could get out. Once out I walked into the house and left them there accidentally. Later in the day I made a snap decision to rush to spin class and using the van I drove away with the package still on the roof. Today as I retraced my path the meds were gone, do you have any idea of how silly that makes me feel, blowing off needed meds. Now I know you've never done anything like that before, just me.
This morning I rolled out and hit the path for the 3 miles marathon. Then I had breakfast, showered and went to work. Nikki emailed to ask if I would like to do lunch at Olive Garden and of course that sounded great. So during the morning I did a desk review of someones appraisal, shipped that out and then drove to Tracy with the girls. We had a nice lunch and then it was back to work again. The afternoon grew warm so I started the little AC that sits in the window of my office and the dogs and I stayed here for the afternoon not wanting to be in the other section of the house where the temp was 80 degrees.
I managed to finish another really challenging appraisal, this one ended up having 8 comparables to try to make sense out of this crazy market. For the last several days I've been on a constant hunt for something to eat, Steve and Nikki gave me several beautiful tomatoes that were left over from the party and I've been eating them in every manner I can find. They are wonderful and one slice covers an entire slice of thin bread.
I was on the receiving end of a very kind gesture today. Dr. Jim set aside some samples of the new medicine that controls blood sugar levels and appetite as well but his office is in Antioch and I knew I needed to get work done today. Lois was going to Kaiser appointment which was near my doctors office so I called this morning rather early to ask if she could help. Turns out she could not sleep much during the night and was still very much asleep when I called, not a good thing to do to a nice neighbor! She consented to picking up the meds and did so this afternoon. What a help that was and tomorrow morning I'll get back on my meds again and see if we can get the appetite controlled again, just in time for the church campout. At some point tomorrow I'll leave for camp McSwain in the motorhome. I'm going to pick up the trailer in the morning to ferry the paddle boat behind the motorhome.
Knowing ahead of time that there is no WiFi anywhere near the camping site I am driving to I need to let you the faithful ready know that I won't be writing again until Sunday evening. So no Friday or Sabbath editions.
So I wish you all a good weekend and my prayer is always that you will care for the things that mean the most to you with your best actions, words and gestures. Love the one you are with with gusto.
Love
tim
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Pastor Jessica comes to visit
Dear Family and Friends,
Another really terrific day. What I mean to say is that I was able to accomplish a lot of work today, went to spin class and then came home to tidy up the house a bit as I knew the pastor was coming for a visit.
Spin class was work, it always is but I notice that I'm able to handle it better each time and I think that is great news. Our instructor is so inspiring, she won't let us fail and for 30 minutes we spin, we stand up and pump, we lean over and pump and we stretch and mostly I just sweat. Tonight there was a brave new lady there and she perspired a lot too, I felt for her.
This morning after caring for the kidos I drove to Knightsen, a tiny little town with a post office, one store, a bar and a fire station. I was seeing a little house that is selling for just $75,000. It was totally cute and has been in the family for many years, now a younger daughter is buying it from the estate. What a nice place and her dad was really interesting to get to know. He has been the fire chief for many many years until the county took it over, drove it under financially and is now talking about closing it. Government is often not the best answer to everyday problems.
I enjoyed the visit with the pastor tonight. We sat on the back deck and ate badly burned popcorn and I was impressed once again that God has placed her in our Tracy SDA Church for very good reasons. she is really terrific at communication and loves the Lord.
Right now I'm heading to bed, the day has been long, the weather warm and rest is over due.
Love
tim
Another really terrific day. What I mean to say is that I was able to accomplish a lot of work today, went to spin class and then came home to tidy up the house a bit as I knew the pastor was coming for a visit.
Spin class was work, it always is but I notice that I'm able to handle it better each time and I think that is great news. Our instructor is so inspiring, she won't let us fail and for 30 minutes we spin, we stand up and pump, we lean over and pump and we stretch and mostly I just sweat. Tonight there was a brave new lady there and she perspired a lot too, I felt for her.
This morning after caring for the kidos I drove to Knightsen, a tiny little town with a post office, one store, a bar and a fire station. I was seeing a little house that is selling for just $75,000. It was totally cute and has been in the family for many years, now a younger daughter is buying it from the estate. What a nice place and her dad was really interesting to get to know. He has been the fire chief for many many years until the county took it over, drove it under financially and is now talking about closing it. Government is often not the best answer to everyday problems.
I enjoyed the visit with the pastor tonight. We sat on the back deck and ate badly burned popcorn and I was impressed once again that God has placed her in our Tracy SDA Church for very good reasons. she is really terrific at communication and loves the Lord.
Right now I'm heading to bed, the day has been long, the weather warm and rest is over due.
Love
tim
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Back to work
Good evening
This brief word from production man. Kidos this morning, total fun, then back home to work in the office until early afternoon, then head out to see properties in Oakley, then the fan fails in the bugs heating and cooling system so back home to trade it for the van, then head out again, make a healthy deposit, (yea) then to Oakley a second time, then to Fairfield for a late appointment. Reason, their family had terrible news today that a pain in their dad's back was actually a death sentence, cancer was throughout his body and they were coping with the shocking news. My going later allowed them to do what they needed to do during the day with hospitals, tests, decisions etc. I understood and was delighted to be able to help them in any way I could. A few years ago their son was thrown from a car he was riding in and is now pretty much in a wheel chair all the time, yet this was a happy and peaceful family with a beautiful home and yard.
Once I got back home I finished a report that was due this morning, have just emailed it and now I say goodnight to you.
love
tim
This brief word from production man. Kidos this morning, total fun, then back home to work in the office until early afternoon, then head out to see properties in Oakley, then the fan fails in the bugs heating and cooling system so back home to trade it for the van, then head out again, make a healthy deposit, (yea) then to Oakley a second time, then to Fairfield for a late appointment. Reason, their family had terrible news today that a pain in their dad's back was actually a death sentence, cancer was throughout his body and they were coping with the shocking news. My going later allowed them to do what they needed to do during the day with hospitals, tests, decisions etc. I understood and was delighted to be able to help them in any way I could. A few years ago their son was thrown from a car he was riding in and is now pretty much in a wheel chair all the time, yet this was a happy and peaceful family with a beautiful home and yard.
Once I got back home I finished a report that was due this morning, have just emailed it and now I say goodnight to you.
love
tim
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