Good evening
I've a moment before Nikki and the girls arrive at UNOs for Keannas birthday dinner. I've been busy dodging the swirling wind. It's been blowing for days and drives the hay fever nuts. Not fun at all.
This morning we went to Byron inn for breakfast. So fun to watch the girls in action. It was pricey but oh so good.
Since the girls got so late this morning there was no Sabbath School for them, they were barely up. So it was a day of watering my flowers to offset the bad effects of the constant wind and talking to the neighbors. Ken is riding 50 miles tomorrow to benefit Diabetes. He is riding in the beautiful Napa valley and has raised a lot of money, his daughter is riding also. Ray was busy installing a new radiator in Lois's Volvo and had to improvise as he went to make the new one work.
This evening we had Keanna's birthday dinner at UNOs and when they sang for her she was so embarrassed, sort of like her Grammy who did not like to have them sing to her either. Well does anyone really? I hit CostCo and found tomatoes, strawberries, Romain hearts, soy milk, a mature tomato plant with green tomatoes already on it, planting soil, mocha's, you know vital stuff and water, they finally had the sport bottles. So I'm set for awhile now.
So tomorrow is clean up the office day, write a couple old appraisals, set up appointments for the two appraisals I have to see right now and try to figure out how to build Starr a wheel chair.
So good night friends and family,
love to all
Tim
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Keanna Turns Eight
Then it was time to venture into the party room. The ladies had everything ready to go, Nikki had supplied all the ingredients having learned from past years what works and what does not. Everyone had great food, super cake and ice cream and then it was time for the presents. Wow Keanna had fun opening the varied gifts all wrapped in beautiful paper or birthday sacks. She really enjoyed herself, after all you only turn 8 once in your life time.
Steve managed to get home in time to be there, this was after a huge day of laying sod at his beautiful landscaping job in Patterson. He has done such a great job and has proven once again that he can really manage workers, projects, planning and budgeting well. Now he is approaching the end of the job, the trees are in, the sprinklers are in, the sod, gravel, shrubs, dozens of yards of concrete is poured and the owner loves the job. Good job Steve.
Sending love to all and begging you, please enjoy the one you are with, when you are alone its harder todo that.
Love
tim
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Well we did pray for work!!
Dear Family and Friends,
Needless to say this has been another very busy day. I started with the girls this morning and found a less than excited reception of scrambled eggs. It was not the best of mornings but we all survived. We ended up taking Kallie without her blankie, a poor ragged little piece of cloth but with so much emotional value to Kallie. Sort of makes me wonder what kind of blankies we all carry around, I know mine is having something to eat in my mouth most of the time. Its a blankie I need to deal with but so far its been dealing with me. Other blankies might be addicted to work, something to think about.
Forgive me but I plan to sleep in tomorrow, I'll just not be able to wake at three to see some rich kids get hitched. I wish them well but somehow it seems widely out of step with a world that is broke and desperate. So can you take notes as you watch through sleepy eyes and if there is anything wonderful that happened tape it for me, OK.
The phone rang and there was a very wonderful and familiar voice speaking. Sylvia has returned from yet another epic bird watching quest. This time from Morocco and she said that the cafe that was blown up today was a place she visited last week. Yikes Sylvia, I know you like to live on the edge but really. So glad she is back in one piece, had a tremendous trip and is raring to go once again. I hope when I'm her age I'll have the energy she does..........
So now I'm going to bed, I've driven 3 hours to take a photo of someones garage, a photo of the attic and ground beneath a house and after facing the traffic and all I'm very thankful to be home with Starr. I know the neighborhood is safe tonight, Ray and Lois have returned from a long trip to San Jose to one of their other homes. I managed to be really helpful, who says one cannot laugh at himself, Ray called to ask me to put his medicine, insulin, into the frig when it came as it can't stand to be in the heat. So I checked three times and finally it was there. I took it in to the house, opened the box and put what I thought was the medicine into the frig, whoops, I really put the freeze bag in the frig and left the insulin sitting on the kitchen counter. Some favor I did Ray! I asked him for a list of flowers he wanted at his services.
Well good night to all,
love
tim
Needless to say this has been another very busy day. I started with the girls this morning and found a less than excited reception of scrambled eggs. It was not the best of mornings but we all survived. We ended up taking Kallie without her blankie, a poor ragged little piece of cloth but with so much emotional value to Kallie. Sort of makes me wonder what kind of blankies we all carry around, I know mine is having something to eat in my mouth most of the time. Its a blankie I need to deal with but so far its been dealing with me. Other blankies might be addicted to work, something to think about.
Forgive me but I plan to sleep in tomorrow, I'll just not be able to wake at three to see some rich kids get hitched. I wish them well but somehow it seems widely out of step with a world that is broke and desperate. So can you take notes as you watch through sleepy eyes and if there is anything wonderful that happened tape it for me, OK.
The phone rang and there was a very wonderful and familiar voice speaking. Sylvia has returned from yet another epic bird watching quest. This time from Morocco and she said that the cafe that was blown up today was a place she visited last week. Yikes Sylvia, I know you like to live on the edge but really. So glad she is back in one piece, had a tremendous trip and is raring to go once again. I hope when I'm her age I'll have the energy she does..........
So now I'm going to bed, I've driven 3 hours to take a photo of someones garage, a photo of the attic and ground beneath a house and after facing the traffic and all I'm very thankful to be home with Starr. I know the neighborhood is safe tonight, Ray and Lois have returned from a long trip to San Jose to one of their other homes. I managed to be really helpful, who says one cannot laugh at himself, Ray called to ask me to put his medicine, insulin, into the frig when it came as it can't stand to be in the heat. So I checked three times and finally it was there. I took it in to the house, opened the box and put what I thought was the medicine into the frig, whoops, I really put the freeze bag in the frig and left the insulin sitting on the kitchen counter. Some favor I did Ray! I asked him for a list of flowers he wanted at his services.
Well good night to all,
love
tim
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
What a day
And not is a good way, I suppose we should not expect that every day will go well.
My day started off fine, up, showered and to the kids on time, when they came down they had breakfast on the table, mini toast, sausage, grapes sliced in two, milk and cereal. I'd like to say they ate all of it but they did eat most of it. Keanna thought my mini toast was the dumbest idea ever, so much for trying something new.
Once delivered I turned to home. That is when it fell apart. Somehow something got into my Outlook Express and started sending emails to every address in the entire system so all day I've had hundreds of replies since many of the email addresses are business related and very old. Then this afternoon the Outlook Express quit working and the computer more or less froze up. So for nearly three hours I worked with Jim, my great IT guy and then Comcast chat box and finally about 7 it started working again. I was supposed to put out 3 reports this afternoon and I've just completed 1, I have two left over for tomorrow and then a day of fixing messes in the field even down to San Jose.
Not many things have gone right today and of course I was far too busy for spin class but I did think about it.
I'm hoping for a better tomorrow as when I explode then I have to calm down Starr as she thinks she did something very wrong.
Oh well I guess we should in everything give thanks. Thats a tall order for this day let me say. One nice thing was a decent check in the mail from one of the management companies, the faithful one that always pays on time.
So good night,
if you got an email from me today I'm sorry, I have no idea of how to fix it or even what it is thats doing it.
Love
tim
My day started off fine, up, showered and to the kids on time, when they came down they had breakfast on the table, mini toast, sausage, grapes sliced in two, milk and cereal. I'd like to say they ate all of it but they did eat most of it. Keanna thought my mini toast was the dumbest idea ever, so much for trying something new.
Once delivered I turned to home. That is when it fell apart. Somehow something got into my Outlook Express and started sending emails to every address in the entire system so all day I've had hundreds of replies since many of the email addresses are business related and very old. Then this afternoon the Outlook Express quit working and the computer more or less froze up. So for nearly three hours I worked with Jim, my great IT guy and then Comcast chat box and finally about 7 it started working again. I was supposed to put out 3 reports this afternoon and I've just completed 1, I have two left over for tomorrow and then a day of fixing messes in the field even down to San Jose.
Not many things have gone right today and of course I was far too busy for spin class but I did think about it.
I'm hoping for a better tomorrow as when I explode then I have to calm down Starr as she thinks she did something very wrong.
Oh well I guess we should in everything give thanks. Thats a tall order for this day let me say. One nice thing was a decent check in the mail from one of the management companies, the faithful one that always pays on time.
So good night,
if you got an email from me today I'm sorry, I have no idea of how to fix it or even what it is thats doing it.
Love
tim
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
A very full day
Talk about an emotional roller coaster! This morning was great as the kids came down to waffles, strawberries, sausage, milk. Keanna remembered that today was school photos and without her mom there to help her she took over, she went to the mirror, brushed and fixed her hair and did a super job of it. I was so proud of her. Kallie was full of life too and it was hard to get them fed and out the door since both had slept in a bit.
Once I close the door having left Kallie at the sitters I take a deep breath and then move into my day. Today that meant a quick fix of an appraisal and then onto the road to Crockett. I found a mess when I started looking closer at the appraisal I was reviewing. Now mind you this is a very hard market to work in. The town is little and has old home with direct water views, narrow streets and a huge range in values and quality of homes. So I know the appraiser had his or her work cut out. But after searching for an hour to find comp 2 which the report says was 3 to 4 blocks distant I discovered that it was in a town 15 miles away. Nothing in the report indicated that at all. Not good! So I took the time to drive to El Cerrito and find the home which had no view of the water as reported in the appraisal. Once I was through with that mess I headed to Orinda to do a driveby appraisal. Now in Orinda there is no way to hurry, the streets are so narrow that you do not dare meet another driver. Finally after hours searching the hills I was done and heading home. I had 7 reports to get written up waiting at home.
This evening I just picked one, the relo that was being requested and now its emailed out. It pays best and I love doing them.
Now its bedtime, well even past bedtime. On my way home an email came in that made me so upset I could hardly drive. They had a full page of things they wanted addressed or changed. I've been doing these for 22 years and some nitwit with a year's experience is reading a rule book and giving me grief. It will end up causing yet another trip to San Jose and all of this for 1/2 the fee I used to get. Sometimes this job gets to me but I suppose your job might get to you too, that is if you still work and then your spouse probably bugs you.
So good night
Love
tim
Once I close the door having left Kallie at the sitters I take a deep breath and then move into my day. Today that meant a quick fix of an appraisal and then onto the road to Crockett. I found a mess when I started looking closer at the appraisal I was reviewing. Now mind you this is a very hard market to work in. The town is little and has old home with direct water views, narrow streets and a huge range in values and quality of homes. So I know the appraiser had his or her work cut out. But after searching for an hour to find comp 2 which the report says was 3 to 4 blocks distant I discovered that it was in a town 15 miles away. Nothing in the report indicated that at all. Not good! So I took the time to drive to El Cerrito and find the home which had no view of the water as reported in the appraisal. Once I was through with that mess I headed to Orinda to do a driveby appraisal. Now in Orinda there is no way to hurry, the streets are so narrow that you do not dare meet another driver. Finally after hours searching the hills I was done and heading home. I had 7 reports to get written up waiting at home.
This evening I just picked one, the relo that was being requested and now its emailed out. It pays best and I love doing them.
Now its bedtime, well even past bedtime. On my way home an email came in that made me so upset I could hardly drive. They had a full page of things they wanted addressed or changed. I've been doing these for 22 years and some nitwit with a year's experience is reading a rule book and giving me grief. It will end up causing yet another trip to San Jose and all of this for 1/2 the fee I used to get. Sometimes this job gets to me but I suppose your job might get to you too, that is if you still work and then your spouse probably bugs you.
So good night
Love
tim
Monday, April 25, 2011
We will let the flowers tell tonights story.
Ice plant in spring
The little mini park iceplant goes crazy
Nan's memorial garden
Bursting in color
The front yard from the porch
Sunday, April 24, 2011
The flowers are in
I am happy to report that the flowers are in, the sprinklers work perfectly, the yard is taking shape, today between writing reports I trimmed roses, planted flowers, tried out the sprinklers. Ask Starr, I had her enjoying the grass of the lawn and accidentally turned on the sprinkler for where she was sitting. I heard her yelp and then I just darted into the spray and grabbed her out, toweled her off and she looked at me like I was nuts. She has forgiven me now and is ready to go to bed.
I'm still very sore but relieved to have this project completed. Now I'm more willing to take on other projects. Like start preparing the house to be painted, replace some wood around the chimney for the wood stove on the family room wall, get the planters going for tomato growing on the back deck, jack up the back deck to get it more level, get the spa going again, knock down some weeds, get the boat running, just little things like that.
This afternoon LeAnn and Ken let me join in their easter fun and she had things Ken and I could eat without sugar. It was great. Then later I picked up a couple little toys for the girls and delivered them and while I was out picked up the pizza for their dinner, got some pieces for delivery service, so good!
Well I'm off to bed now.
Sending love and great hopes for the upcoming week for all of us.
Love
tim
I'm still very sore but relieved to have this project completed. Now I'm more willing to take on other projects. Like start preparing the house to be painted, replace some wood around the chimney for the wood stove on the family room wall, get the planters going for tomato growing on the back deck, jack up the back deck to get it more level, get the spa going again, knock down some weeds, get the boat running, just little things like that.
This afternoon LeAnn and Ken let me join in their easter fun and she had things Ken and I could eat without sugar. It was great. Then later I picked up a couple little toys for the girls and delivered them and while I was out picked up the pizza for their dinner, got some pieces for delivery service, so good!
Well I'm off to bed now.
Sending love and great hopes for the upcoming week for all of us.
Love
tim
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Progress
Dear Family and Friends,
Ken and I trudged our 3 miles this morning and I had just started my oatmeal when Nikki called to ask if I still wanted to take the girls to SS, well yes of course so I speeded up the eating, the shower, the dressing and took the girls to enjoy Sabbath School. Keanna enjoyed a busy class and Kallie enjoyed being in a room full of children, it was great and Diane, today's teacher, just did a great job with everyone. Of course their favorite part is snack time and they made those little fish crackers disappear in record time. I got to see George and Wes as well as Loren, the Whites, Dick, Judy. Nikki picked up the girls after SS and they went to the zoo in Sacramento and I enjoyed the worship hour although Bernice mentioned that my eyes were often closed, its true no matter how hard I tried to stay awake I did slip off from time to time.
On the way home I decided on Olive Garden where I enjoyed salad, two bread sticks (from heaven), eggplant lunch portion and Bellini Ice Tea. For $12 bucks it was a tremendous lunch.
Once I got home I took Starr to the front yard and played with the project and by tonight had the sprinklers in, the ground covered with new soil enhancer, some little solar yard lights. In the morning I'll plant the flowers hoping they grow and look good. I consulted with Steve today about what I needed to do so I'm pretty confident it will work out well. It looks so much better with the weeds gone, the ground freshly rototilled, the lights twinkling. However I am so sore and tired I can't believe it, yesterday and some this evening has the limbs barely able to move. Once I finish this epistle I'm heading to the jetted tub in my bedroom. I can't wait to feel the warm currents swirling around and around.
I'm feeling better overall, less stressed and more in charge again. The week with its long days really worn me down and now I'm feeling sore but recharged. The hay fever is not too bad and the coughing is much better when I use the inhaler so I'm trying to remember to have it with me where ever I go. I plan to get a second one to keep in the car too.
Sending love and wishing everyone a happy Easter. Enjoy those people who are near to you, reach out in special ways to love and affirm that you do care. In spite of losing Nan at this point in my life I feel so blessed with my family, every one of them have talents, vitality, opinions, energy to burn and great creativity. I am humbled to be the papa for this group. How Nan would have loved to see everyone growing up and having so much success.
So I send love to family and friends tonight, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives.
Tim
Ken and I trudged our 3 miles this morning and I had just started my oatmeal when Nikki called to ask if I still wanted to take the girls to SS, well yes of course so I speeded up the eating, the shower, the dressing and took the girls to enjoy Sabbath School. Keanna enjoyed a busy class and Kallie enjoyed being in a room full of children, it was great and Diane, today's teacher, just did a great job with everyone. Of course their favorite part is snack time and they made those little fish crackers disappear in record time. I got to see George and Wes as well as Loren, the Whites, Dick, Judy. Nikki picked up the girls after SS and they went to the zoo in Sacramento and I enjoyed the worship hour although Bernice mentioned that my eyes were often closed, its true no matter how hard I tried to stay awake I did slip off from time to time.
On the way home I decided on Olive Garden where I enjoyed salad, two bread sticks (from heaven), eggplant lunch portion and Bellini Ice Tea. For $12 bucks it was a tremendous lunch.
Once I got home I took Starr to the front yard and played with the project and by tonight had the sprinklers in, the ground covered with new soil enhancer, some little solar yard lights. In the morning I'll plant the flowers hoping they grow and look good. I consulted with Steve today about what I needed to do so I'm pretty confident it will work out well. It looks so much better with the weeds gone, the ground freshly rototilled, the lights twinkling. However I am so sore and tired I can't believe it, yesterday and some this evening has the limbs barely able to move. Once I finish this epistle I'm heading to the jetted tub in my bedroom. I can't wait to feel the warm currents swirling around and around.
I'm feeling better overall, less stressed and more in charge again. The week with its long days really worn me down and now I'm feeling sore but recharged. The hay fever is not too bad and the coughing is much better when I use the inhaler so I'm trying to remember to have it with me where ever I go. I plan to get a second one to keep in the car too.
Sending love and wishing everyone a happy Easter. Enjoy those people who are near to you, reach out in special ways to love and affirm that you do care. In spite of losing Nan at this point in my life I feel so blessed with my family, every one of them have talents, vitality, opinions, energy to burn and great creativity. I am humbled to be the papa for this group. How Nan would have loved to see everyone growing up and having so much success.
So I send love to family and friends tonight, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives.
Tim
Friday, April 22, 2011
At last its FRIDAY
It could not have come soon enough.... Oh now nice it is to have the weekend with the precious Sabbath hours.
This morning started with making breakfast for the little ladies, then since Keanna's teacher needed the day off as did the whole school!! I took her to Black Diamond Gymnastics where they were having a day camp. Keanna had a blast even though she was not that jazzed about going at first. She was able to perfect a new move that she had been working on, great news for the achiever.
She suggested that perhaps we could go to her favorite Mexican place in Brentwood when I picked her up at 2.
I next dropped Kallie off at her baby sitters, they are real gems and do a great job with Kallie. She was going full bore conversation wise as we drove from Brentwood to Discovery Bay and she has good insight into lots of things. She adores her mom and day, that is clear to see.
Once I got home I set up orders and then settled in to complete a desk review for a property in Oakland. While I did not agree with everything the appraiser had done he made his case and I approved the appraisal. For that process I was paid $120. Then I set about solving the questions that a reviewer had raised about my ranchette appraisal. When I spoke to the owner she offered to shoot a couple photos they wanted and email them to me. She did and that part worked out great. One of the questions they raised was regarding the flood zone and needing a map showing the flood zone. For the next two hours I tried to wade through the FEMA information online and finally had to give up. Government can sure make things complicated and they keep growing government larger, a very bad idea for freedom.
At 1:50 I headed back to pick up her highness and we then went to Jalisco's, a place we both like. She ordered rice and a tortilla, apple juice and raided the chips they brought. This child dips her chips in the hot sauce. I'm amazed. I don't even like it on the table when I eat.
After we got back home I completed the report and shipped it out again, lets hope it gets through this time. Once Nikki came to collect Keanna and let Kallie play for a minute I changed shoes and plans. I was tired of pushing paper and moved out front to start in once again at removing the roots of a very large plant. After a few swings of the pick my chest felt like it was going to burst. It was very hard work and I'm very out of shape but eventually I found a rhythm and after an hour or so the roots were all gone. Then I fired up the rototiller and used that to work up the soil. By now it was starting to get cold and the sun was setting. I grabbed the push mower and clipped the lawn, put the edger attachment on and edged the lawn. Then I settled in to pull the weeds that have been choking Nan's memorial garden, the Iris's are blooming so beautifully now and as of this moment they have no weeds sticking up everywhere.
I can hardly move now, so sore but so pleased as well. This has been on my mind for a very long time and its done. Now I can put in the sprinkler line, the three sprinklers, select the flowers, plant them and finally have the color I've wanted for that corner for years. Yes!
So now its late and Ken and I are walking in the morning, first time in awhile. It will be nice.
Sending love to all,
Tim
This morning started with making breakfast for the little ladies, then since Keanna's teacher needed the day off as did the whole school!! I took her to Black Diamond Gymnastics where they were having a day camp. Keanna had a blast even though she was not that jazzed about going at first. She was able to perfect a new move that she had been working on, great news for the achiever.
She suggested that perhaps we could go to her favorite Mexican place in Brentwood when I picked her up at 2.
I next dropped Kallie off at her baby sitters, they are real gems and do a great job with Kallie. She was going full bore conversation wise as we drove from Brentwood to Discovery Bay and she has good insight into lots of things. She adores her mom and day, that is clear to see.
Once I got home I set up orders and then settled in to complete a desk review for a property in Oakland. While I did not agree with everything the appraiser had done he made his case and I approved the appraisal. For that process I was paid $120. Then I set about solving the questions that a reviewer had raised about my ranchette appraisal. When I spoke to the owner she offered to shoot a couple photos they wanted and email them to me. She did and that part worked out great. One of the questions they raised was regarding the flood zone and needing a map showing the flood zone. For the next two hours I tried to wade through the FEMA information online and finally had to give up. Government can sure make things complicated and they keep growing government larger, a very bad idea for freedom.
At 1:50 I headed back to pick up her highness and we then went to Jalisco's, a place we both like. She ordered rice and a tortilla, apple juice and raided the chips they brought. This child dips her chips in the hot sauce. I'm amazed. I don't even like it on the table when I eat.
After we got back home I completed the report and shipped it out again, lets hope it gets through this time. Once Nikki came to collect Keanna and let Kallie play for a minute I changed shoes and plans. I was tired of pushing paper and moved out front to start in once again at removing the roots of a very large plant. After a few swings of the pick my chest felt like it was going to burst. It was very hard work and I'm very out of shape but eventually I found a rhythm and after an hour or so the roots were all gone. Then I fired up the rototiller and used that to work up the soil. By now it was starting to get cold and the sun was setting. I grabbed the push mower and clipped the lawn, put the edger attachment on and edged the lawn. Then I settled in to pull the weeds that have been choking Nan's memorial garden, the Iris's are blooming so beautifully now and as of this moment they have no weeds sticking up everywhere.
I can hardly move now, so sore but so pleased as well. This has been on my mind for a very long time and its done. Now I can put in the sprinkler line, the three sprinklers, select the flowers, plant them and finally have the color I've wanted for that corner for years. Yes!
So now its late and Ken and I are walking in the morning, first time in awhile. It will be nice.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Thursday, April 21, 2011
An Enjoyable Day
7:30 arrive to help kiddos get ready for school and sitters, prepare breakfast, dress Kallie, brush hair, herd girls to van for short trip, on time arrival.
8:45 in office, do research for the day
10:05 leave for Oakland 10 am appointment, call and move forward while on the road
11:20 arrive at duplex in Oakland, nice agent waited for me
12:45 leave Oakland for San Jose
1:30 arrive in San Jose, find delightful family and perfect home in great area
3:00 leave San Jose for Antioch
5:25 arrive in Antioch, inspect another nice home
6:30 land at UNO's for delightful 5 grain pizza and salad
8:00 home to be greeted by Starr
During the day received many emails, Face Book connections, E Harmony contacts, business calls and have conversations with clients, family and wrong numbers all on the IPHONE, love that little device.
Now heading to bed, need rest, Starr needs rest.
Life has many challenges but many joys also. Mostly I'm just thankful!
Love
tim
8:45 in office, do research for the day
10:05 leave for Oakland 10 am appointment, call and move forward while on the road
11:20 arrive at duplex in Oakland, nice agent waited for me
12:45 leave Oakland for San Jose
1:30 arrive in San Jose, find delightful family and perfect home in great area
3:00 leave San Jose for Antioch
5:25 arrive in Antioch, inspect another nice home
6:30 land at UNO's for delightful 5 grain pizza and salad
8:00 home to be greeted by Starr
During the day received many emails, Face Book connections, E Harmony contacts, business calls and have conversations with clients, family and wrong numbers all on the IPHONE, love that little device.
Now heading to bed, need rest, Starr needs rest.
Life has many challenges but many joys also. Mostly I'm just thankful!
Love
tim
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Whoops
Well as you know by now I missed preparing a blog edition last night. I didn't realize it until late in the night. Some silly person sipped Arnold Palmers until going to bed forgetting that they have caffeine in every sip. So after dropping off to sleep I woke to a very long night, I had clarity of thought and worked through lots of things but I sure missed the sleep.
Sometime during the night I realized that I had forgotten to blog. I had worked on an appraisal right up to about 11 and then went to bed. The blog just slipped by, sorry faithful readers.
This evening I'm sitting at Nikki and Steve's while they are celebrating their 14th anniversary at UNOs, a great little pizza place we first discovered in Hawaii long ago. While they didn't have to go to Hawaii tonight, there is one now located in Antioch which is a 20 minute drive.
I helped with the girls this morning and they were great. I made waffles for them and small pieces of strawberry and milk. Then it was off to school and the sitters and I eventually drove over to see a nice home for a Relocation appraisal. You know I love those because they are the most honest appraisal around. Everyone involved in the process just wants to know the real answer and they pay $500. Wow, that seems strange in this current cheap fee world.
I spent hours this morning setting up orders and getting appointments for tomorrow. I'll be in Oakland, San Jose, Crockett and Antioch so the day should keep me busy. Plus I have lots to do in the office. Right now I'm seeing orders like manna from heaven, only I have to scramble to keep up with the load.
I had planned to drive to MBA this weekend to bring back Jason's car to get some work done on it in Brentwood but the kiddos have become sick so not sure what is the right plan to help them the most. Jason will be very busy this weekend since it is alumni day, a very important day for MBA and those who have graduated from the school over the years. I don't want to be in the way at all.
This evening after I complete this blog I'll start to work on an appraisal I've been working on using the remote control of my home computer, then when Igo home I'll finish it and eventually go to bed. I have this little project in the front yard I'm anxious to work on but so far I've just not had the time, that is a good problem though as the Lord is really trusting me with a lot of work to do.
This afternoon an order came in a text and I quickly typed accept in the iphone. I got the order and then here came another one on the same street and I accepted that one too. Nice to be able to do that, the first appraiser to reply gets the work and I usually don't get it, someone beats me to it so I was pleased to get the orders.
All day today the weather threatened rain but there was very little that came down. How awful for the people in N. Carolina who have had their homes destroyed and some even lost loved ones. Oh how we need the Lord's protection. Keanna just prayed for Mia and Timothy to get well before she fell asleep. These are different times than in the past. Nothing seems for sure anymore. Yet as Christians we know a few things for sure.
Love to all,
Tim
Sometime during the night I realized that I had forgotten to blog. I had worked on an appraisal right up to about 11 and then went to bed. The blog just slipped by, sorry faithful readers.
This evening I'm sitting at Nikki and Steve's while they are celebrating their 14th anniversary at UNOs, a great little pizza place we first discovered in Hawaii long ago. While they didn't have to go to Hawaii tonight, there is one now located in Antioch which is a 20 minute drive.
I helped with the girls this morning and they were great. I made waffles for them and small pieces of strawberry and milk. Then it was off to school and the sitters and I eventually drove over to see a nice home for a Relocation appraisal. You know I love those because they are the most honest appraisal around. Everyone involved in the process just wants to know the real answer and they pay $500. Wow, that seems strange in this current cheap fee world.
I spent hours this morning setting up orders and getting appointments for tomorrow. I'll be in Oakland, San Jose, Crockett and Antioch so the day should keep me busy. Plus I have lots to do in the office. Right now I'm seeing orders like manna from heaven, only I have to scramble to keep up with the load.
I had planned to drive to MBA this weekend to bring back Jason's car to get some work done on it in Brentwood but the kiddos have become sick so not sure what is the right plan to help them the most. Jason will be very busy this weekend since it is alumni day, a very important day for MBA and those who have graduated from the school over the years. I don't want to be in the way at all.
This evening after I complete this blog I'll start to work on an appraisal I've been working on using the remote control of my home computer, then when Igo home I'll finish it and eventually go to bed. I have this little project in the front yard I'm anxious to work on but so far I've just not had the time, that is a good problem though as the Lord is really trusting me with a lot of work to do.
This afternoon an order came in a text and I quickly typed accept in the iphone. I got the order and then here came another one on the same street and I accepted that one too. Nice to be able to do that, the first appraiser to reply gets the work and I usually don't get it, someone beats me to it so I was pleased to get the orders.
All day today the weather threatened rain but there was very little that came down. How awful for the people in N. Carolina who have had their homes destroyed and some even lost loved ones. Oh how we need the Lord's protection. Keanna just prayed for Mia and Timothy to get well before she fell asleep. These are different times than in the past. Nothing seems for sure anymore. Yet as Christians we know a few things for sure.
Love to all,
Tim
Monday, April 18, 2011
Grey day
yet how can one really feel grey when you start the day with two little fireballs, smiling, playing, daring you to make them eat their little breakfasts etc. Today was state test trial day for Keanna and she aced the test, the trial test she took today. I was amazed how seriously she takes the whole state testing process. I've been hearing about it for a couple weeks and she is very serious. She wants to do well. I'm impressed!
When I drop Kallie off she wants to pick up the newspaper and carry it to Sam and told me this morning that she can't pick the flowers on the front porch, they need to stay where they are for everyone to enjoy. She loves it there with other children and two very caring grandparents.
Today has been spent setting up new orders, praise the Lord, dealing with conditions and questions, errrr. This evening I've been working on a driveby in Brentwood at the top of the present market, $600,000. The top of the Brentwood market used to be more like $1,100,000. How things change. Interesting how local experience helps out. My #1 comp for this driveby report is a sale that I just appraised recently and that has now closed escrow. Talk about knowing all the details.
The Lord handed me two important orders today. One is from a Relo company and of course they pay very well, the second was a referral from someone who works in real estate locally. Its for a home who lost its owner recently and they need an appraisal for the estate, also pays well.
So now its time for bed, I have the girls in the morning and need to be rested to care for them properly.
Love to all,
Tim
When I drop Kallie off she wants to pick up the newspaper and carry it to Sam and told me this morning that she can't pick the flowers on the front porch, they need to stay where they are for everyone to enjoy. She loves it there with other children and two very caring grandparents.
Today has been spent setting up new orders, praise the Lord, dealing with conditions and questions, errrr. This evening I've been working on a driveby in Brentwood at the top of the present market, $600,000. The top of the Brentwood market used to be more like $1,100,000. How things change. Interesting how local experience helps out. My #1 comp for this driveby report is a sale that I just appraised recently and that has now closed escrow. Talk about knowing all the details.
The Lord handed me two important orders today. One is from a Relo company and of course they pay very well, the second was a referral from someone who works in real estate locally. Its for a home who lost its owner recently and they need an appraisal for the estate, also pays well.
So now its time for bed, I have the girls in the morning and need to be rested to care for them properly.
Love to all,
Tim
Sunday, April 17, 2011
yes I work Sundays!
Every once in awhile I get a desperate call from someone who needs an appraisal done over the weekend and to their mind that means Saturday. We my choice is not to work on my Sabbath so I suggest I could come on Sunday, while it always works out at first there is a pause and then they go ahead and let me come on Sunday. I saw this home in question this morning about about 11:30 and have just emailed the report to the lender now. They are paying me $420 for this order, the highest I've been paid in a very long time and it was due next Tuesday so I'm a bit ahead of the curve on this one.
The first property today was a unique one. Years ago a family decided to build a new home in place of the one they had so they offered their two story remodeled home to anyone willing to move it to a new lot. Someone took them up on it and moved a two story home several miles to a 5 acre parcel in Byron. Today I saw that home and its been fixed up really nice, an extra 3 car garage added and once again I discovered a common bond. This young woman who could not have been more than 30 lost her husband 5 years ago in an accident. She has struggled to pull things together and today is living a good life once again. I enjoyed meeting her and seeing the property. The down side was walking about the 5 acres and ending up with pretty awful hay fever as a result. Seems my head aches most of the time now in spite of the daily hay fever pill I take and the sneezes and coughing has my entire rib cage very sore right now, I coughed a lot yesterday and today I'm feeling it.
On the way home from the Antioch appointment I took care of a driveby appraisal, it was a very nice large home on a huge site in a newer area and the GPS guided me to every comp.
This afternoon I've been working as hard as possible all the while making bread and doing many loads of wash. Now I'm set to hit the sheets once I put them back on the bed. Starr is signalling she ready for bed now.
So here comes the new week, lots of important things to do this week, involving the mortgage, taxes, tax payments, mail back a book I got sweet talked into trying from Rodale, back it goes.
I'm hoping and praying for a good week for all of us. This evening I received a sad email regarding a friend who practices law in Brentwood, I've lost my friend Scott to cancer, yet another very sad chapter in this thing we call life.
Love to all,
Tim
The first property today was a unique one. Years ago a family decided to build a new home in place of the one they had so they offered their two story remodeled home to anyone willing to move it to a new lot. Someone took them up on it and moved a two story home several miles to a 5 acre parcel in Byron. Today I saw that home and its been fixed up really nice, an extra 3 car garage added and once again I discovered a common bond. This young woman who could not have been more than 30 lost her husband 5 years ago in an accident. She has struggled to pull things together and today is living a good life once again. I enjoyed meeting her and seeing the property. The down side was walking about the 5 acres and ending up with pretty awful hay fever as a result. Seems my head aches most of the time now in spite of the daily hay fever pill I take and the sneezes and coughing has my entire rib cage very sore right now, I coughed a lot yesterday and today I'm feeling it.
On the way home from the Antioch appointment I took care of a driveby appraisal, it was a very nice large home on a huge site in a newer area and the GPS guided me to every comp.
This afternoon I've been working as hard as possible all the while making bread and doing many loads of wash. Now I'm set to hit the sheets once I put them back on the bed. Starr is signalling she ready for bed now.
So here comes the new week, lots of important things to do this week, involving the mortgage, taxes, tax payments, mail back a book I got sweet talked into trying from Rodale, back it goes.
I'm hoping and praying for a good week for all of us. This evening I received a sad email regarding a friend who practices law in Brentwood, I've lost my friend Scott to cancer, yet another very sad chapter in this thing we call life.
Love to all,
Tim
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Reunion at PUC great adventure!
11:23 and home safely. Just got to say this was in incredible day! The drive up this morning was just stunningly beautiful. Its a lovely time of year and driving up the Silverado Trail is always special as one passes by winery after winery and through miles of vineyards. You'd think you were in the south of France. Upon arrival I found the first worship hour was over, there were special awards being given to the alumnus of the year and I had my first glimpse of the president. She is an amazing woman, has a huge head of hair and just beams. She is providing really good leadership for the college and everything went smoothly. Lunch was OK but I walked up to the table for the class of 1971 and could not remember many names. Yet in a few minutes there was busy chatter, kind comments regarding Nan's brave fight for life and warmth all around. Eventually we were herded into a room for a class photo. Sort of sad, out of a class of about 302 students there were probably 30 to 35 people there today.
During the afternoon we wandered through an art gallery where a PUC alum had his photographs on display, incredible color and totally enjoyable. Then it was a concert in Paulin Hall by current choirs and orchestra. The music was great and the arrangements were new and interesting. Dorothy was there, she was the director of the Adoration Singers that we sang in for years. She is looking great but has stopped teaching and is enjoying retirement now. I ran into several friends from the past, exchanged cards, email addresses etc.
Then it was time to find the spot where our class was having dinner. My GPS took me right there to a very special development where about 9 owners own the use of one of the villas for the year. Turns out Bryan and Monica are one of the owners of a villa. They just returned from a trip to Italy yesterday yet were up to preparing an outstanding dinner for the entire class this evening. Bryan, the attorney and Grant Mitchell another attorney presided over the little fry pans where they mixed the ingredients we had selected, tomato's, mushrooms, peas, artichoke hearts into the pan over a flame with the sauce we selected and then added one of three different kinds of pasta that had been prepared. The resulting meal was incredibly good and of course there was genuine french bread and a salad with real raspberries, dry cheese etc. We had a feast and as the evening cooled they turned on overhead heaters in the gathering place which had no walls, just a roof and a fireplace with comfortable seating. The group discussed the many who wanted to come but could not, the ones we have already lost in death, who was now married to whom. Finally knowing I had a two hour drive I was picked up along with others in a golf cart and driven to where my car was parked. It was a class act evening with wonderful people.
So now I'm home to get a bit of rest. Early in the morning I have to determine a value for a property in Pleasanton, there are three offers waiting and the owner asked me to do a driveby to arrive at a current value so he knows how to respond to the offers. Then at 10 am I inspect a local 5 acre ranch and at 11 I need to see a place for a rush appraisal in Antioch.
It was interesting to be out of cell phone range all day long today. Seems Verizon has a tower on the PUC land but AT&T has none so there was no service. I felt like I had been cut off, my how things change as we assume technology into our lives.
These kind of days are clearing to the senses. I'm reminded of a life I used to live, in the middle of church activities and happenings, also in the middle of being very social and active. I've let much of it slip away and I'm determined to reach out to people who might enjoy an afternoon on my back deck or a ride in the boat.
One sad note, this morning the girls searched for Easter eggs in the park near my place and I was away. I hated to miss this event in their lives.
Today had some sad moments, I reflected on the knoll where the receiving line was after I was ordained a minister, Nan and I stood there and shook hands for a very long time that day, I was also reminded constantly of life on the mountain during my senior year and her freshman year when we started our life together. But rather than sad it felt very good, I reflected on just how good it was and how blessed I had been to be there, to start our lives together there and then to remember what a blessing that life had been. Its really good, this 36 year chapter and I know God is still awake at the wheel as we all look to the future.
So now its really time to go to sleep, love to all.
Tim
During the afternoon we wandered through an art gallery where a PUC alum had his photographs on display, incredible color and totally enjoyable. Then it was a concert in Paulin Hall by current choirs and orchestra. The music was great and the arrangements were new and interesting. Dorothy was there, she was the director of the Adoration Singers that we sang in for years. She is looking great but has stopped teaching and is enjoying retirement now. I ran into several friends from the past, exchanged cards, email addresses etc.
Then it was time to find the spot where our class was having dinner. My GPS took me right there to a very special development where about 9 owners own the use of one of the villas for the year. Turns out Bryan and Monica are one of the owners of a villa. They just returned from a trip to Italy yesterday yet were up to preparing an outstanding dinner for the entire class this evening. Bryan, the attorney and Grant Mitchell another attorney presided over the little fry pans where they mixed the ingredients we had selected, tomato's, mushrooms, peas, artichoke hearts into the pan over a flame with the sauce we selected and then added one of three different kinds of pasta that had been prepared. The resulting meal was incredibly good and of course there was genuine french bread and a salad with real raspberries, dry cheese etc. We had a feast and as the evening cooled they turned on overhead heaters in the gathering place which had no walls, just a roof and a fireplace with comfortable seating. The group discussed the many who wanted to come but could not, the ones we have already lost in death, who was now married to whom. Finally knowing I had a two hour drive I was picked up along with others in a golf cart and driven to where my car was parked. It was a class act evening with wonderful people.
So now I'm home to get a bit of rest. Early in the morning I have to determine a value for a property in Pleasanton, there are three offers waiting and the owner asked me to do a driveby to arrive at a current value so he knows how to respond to the offers. Then at 10 am I inspect a local 5 acre ranch and at 11 I need to see a place for a rush appraisal in Antioch.
It was interesting to be out of cell phone range all day long today. Seems Verizon has a tower on the PUC land but AT&T has none so there was no service. I felt like I had been cut off, my how things change as we assume technology into our lives.
These kind of days are clearing to the senses. I'm reminded of a life I used to live, in the middle of church activities and happenings, also in the middle of being very social and active. I've let much of it slip away and I'm determined to reach out to people who might enjoy an afternoon on my back deck or a ride in the boat.
One sad note, this morning the girls searched for Easter eggs in the park near my place and I was away. I hated to miss this event in their lives.
Today had some sad moments, I reflected on the knoll where the receiving line was after I was ordained a minister, Nan and I stood there and shook hands for a very long time that day, I was also reminded constantly of life on the mountain during my senior year and her freshman year when we started our life together. But rather than sad it felt very good, I reflected on just how good it was and how blessed I had been to be there, to start our lives together there and then to remember what a blessing that life had been. Its really good, this 36 year chapter and I know God is still awake at the wheel as we all look to the future.
So now its really time to go to sleep, love to all.
Tim
Friday, April 15, 2011
Friday at last.
Good evening,
Are you getting hit with hay fever? I've been taking a pill every day for over a week and still there are times of sneezing, headaches and of course coughing. I know, it happens, live with it, I do.
This afternoon I drove to Fremont to see a property, one that the owner had cancelled and rescheduled me 5 times. Well once I entered I can see why. To think that someone has to live that way is amazing. Everywhere I moved I found piles of trash, old books, empty boxes, wrapping paper, old suitcases, junk. I think a dumpster could solve the entire problem along with a big shovel and garbage cans to haul the stuff out, I'm not sure you can begin to imagine just how much stuff there was, the kitchen counters were piled high, there were no chairs to sit on, every room had a narrow path between piles of stuff, I'm not really sure of the condition of the house due to the mounds of stuff. I worked on one bedroom for about an hour trying to clear a path so I could get up to the attic. I finally had to give up, there was just too much stuff in the way. I can understand how it happened. Our dear owner had a stroke and for months could not do anything, has no one to assist her and is probably too proud to ask for help and the stuff just piles up.
It reminded me that we all have challenges in our lives, sometimes the mounds of stuff are emotional, sometimes are relational, or financial. I know of no one who has such a charmed life that they never face tough times or times of angst. And so we need each other, to listen, to really hear, to lend support, to be a sounding board. We need less advice and more listening.
Tomorrow I'm going to PUC to my 40th reunion. There are parts of me looking forward to it and I hope to get there early enough to enjoy the services but there are also parts of me dreading the unknown. I can hardly remember most of my class mates names much less other things about them. Have you felt these feelings before?
Well I am very thankful to a loving God for His guidance, for the work, for the safety in travel, for the high gas prices (NOT) and for the chance to see the kiddos several times, at least the ones that live here. wish I could see the other ones and will soon.
So I'm wishing you a blessed weekend and remember to love the one you are with.
Love
tim
Are you getting hit with hay fever? I've been taking a pill every day for over a week and still there are times of sneezing, headaches and of course coughing. I know, it happens, live with it, I do.
This afternoon I drove to Fremont to see a property, one that the owner had cancelled and rescheduled me 5 times. Well once I entered I can see why. To think that someone has to live that way is amazing. Everywhere I moved I found piles of trash, old books, empty boxes, wrapping paper, old suitcases, junk. I think a dumpster could solve the entire problem along with a big shovel and garbage cans to haul the stuff out, I'm not sure you can begin to imagine just how much stuff there was, the kitchen counters were piled high, there were no chairs to sit on, every room had a narrow path between piles of stuff, I'm not really sure of the condition of the house due to the mounds of stuff. I worked on one bedroom for about an hour trying to clear a path so I could get up to the attic. I finally had to give up, there was just too much stuff in the way. I can understand how it happened. Our dear owner had a stroke and for months could not do anything, has no one to assist her and is probably too proud to ask for help and the stuff just piles up.
It reminded me that we all have challenges in our lives, sometimes the mounds of stuff are emotional, sometimes are relational, or financial. I know of no one who has such a charmed life that they never face tough times or times of angst. And so we need each other, to listen, to really hear, to lend support, to be a sounding board. We need less advice and more listening.
Tomorrow I'm going to PUC to my 40th reunion. There are parts of me looking forward to it and I hope to get there early enough to enjoy the services but there are also parts of me dreading the unknown. I can hardly remember most of my class mates names much less other things about them. Have you felt these feelings before?
Well I am very thankful to a loving God for His guidance, for the work, for the safety in travel, for the high gas prices (NOT) and for the chance to see the kiddos several times, at least the ones that live here. wish I could see the other ones and will soon.
So I'm wishing you a blessed weekend and remember to love the one you are with.
Love
tim
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Bone tired but content
Dear Family and Friends,
This evening I'm just back from a late afternoon trip to Lafayette to shoot additional photos for a report, then to Pleasanton to do a driveby and then to CostCo for needed supplies. The cat is thrilled to have food again. I explained to her earlier this afternoon that she should go eat birdies but she was not impressed.
I spent the morning wrestling with the IQ challenged helpers who man some of these management companies. Mindless robots without the ability to apply reason or common sense. You just would not believe some of the silly things they are coming up with. Crazy, everyone is afraid that the appraisal might have one item that might raise a red flag after the loan is sold, so they try to overthink everything and what a mess it causes.
Good news on the motorhome rental side. I have two different parties that are renting and sending in deposits now. That is great news and will help pay the motorhome payments and even help with the house payments.
So for now I bid you a good night. This Sabbath I'll return to Pacific Union College for my 40th reunion, can it really be that long ago? Events like this really make me miss Nan beside me. Who wants to show up alone at these events? Yet I'm going just to see how old others appear and for the free dinner on Sabbath evening, yea!
Love to all
tim
This evening I'm just back from a late afternoon trip to Lafayette to shoot additional photos for a report, then to Pleasanton to do a driveby and then to CostCo for needed supplies. The cat is thrilled to have food again. I explained to her earlier this afternoon that she should go eat birdies but she was not impressed.
I spent the morning wrestling with the IQ challenged helpers who man some of these management companies. Mindless robots without the ability to apply reason or common sense. You just would not believe some of the silly things they are coming up with. Crazy, everyone is afraid that the appraisal might have one item that might raise a red flag after the loan is sold, so they try to overthink everything and what a mess it causes.
Good news on the motorhome rental side. I have two different parties that are renting and sending in deposits now. That is great news and will help pay the motorhome payments and even help with the house payments.
So for now I bid you a good night. This Sabbath I'll return to Pacific Union College for my 40th reunion, can it really be that long ago? Events like this really make me miss Nan beside me. Who wants to show up alone at these events? Yet I'm going just to see how old others appear and for the free dinner on Sabbath evening, yea!
Love to all
tim
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A Busy Week
Here I am complaining about being busy, well lets clear the record, I'm delighted to be busy and enjoying seeing properties and writing reports. I've not been able to focus so intently on work for some time and it feels very good to be productive. What is frustrating is the poor pay for services. As I write there are active forces at work in Washington DC to try to force management companies to pay us reasonable and typical fees but of course they want to keep taking their cut, about $200 from each of our orders. Something will have to give or there will be no appraisers left, at least no good ones.
Right now I've been working on an incredibly nice property in Lafayette with a setting that looks like Tahoe. It has a creek running through it, deer patrolling the back yard and a totally quiet setting. But is it worth $800,000 like a recent short sale or $1.4 million like other homes that have sold? Hard to tell exactly what some properties are really worth.
Keanna came to visit this afternoon which also livens things up a bit. Starr gets so excited when visitors come. Sometimes they even give her treats which she really loves. I'd like some treats too but so far the visitors seem to forget the treats.
Tonight I tore myself away from the screen long enough to do the spin class. Tonight was harder than last week, I didn't like the bike I was stuck with and I could not keep up with everyone else. Oh well it was a great workout and I treated myself to a little Starbucks afterwards, nice!
So I'll get the girls in the morning, try to persuade them that breakfast is a great idea and then get started on my day. I hope you are enjoying your days this week.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Right now I've been working on an incredibly nice property in Lafayette with a setting that looks like Tahoe. It has a creek running through it, deer patrolling the back yard and a totally quiet setting. But is it worth $800,000 like a recent short sale or $1.4 million like other homes that have sold? Hard to tell exactly what some properties are really worth.
Keanna came to visit this afternoon which also livens things up a bit. Starr gets so excited when visitors come. Sometimes they even give her treats which she really loves. I'd like some treats too but so far the visitors seem to forget the treats.
Tonight I tore myself away from the screen long enough to do the spin class. Tonight was harder than last week, I didn't like the bike I was stuck with and I could not keep up with everyone else. Oh well it was a great workout and I treated myself to a little Starbucks afterwards, nice!
So I'll get the girls in the morning, try to persuade them that breakfast is a great idea and then get started on my day. I hope you are enjoying your days this week.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Very tired
Dear Family and Friends,
This will be very short as I'm worn out. I started the day by whacking with Ray's pick at a big set of roots from the bush I'm cutting out of the front yard. I thought that I could ride the treadmill and get nothing done or wield the pick and make some progress on the front yard. So for 30 minutes while Starr watched from nearby I huffed and puffed, felt my heart race, raised a sweat and got about a 1/3 of the roots out.
I came in and showered, then had a quick breakfast smoothie with berries, banana and Herbalife. Since that time I've written three full reports and my eyes, hands and neck are very tired. Of course one of the reports has already been bounced as they want even more stuff this week than last week included. I'll wait until I cool down, morning perhaps before answering that one.
This afternoon between two of the reports I carried the soiled carpet runner outside to the garage and using Lois's carpet machine I cleaned away much of Starr's indiscretions.
Wishing each of you a good night and a good Wednesday tomorrow.
Love
tim
This will be very short as I'm worn out. I started the day by whacking with Ray's pick at a big set of roots from the bush I'm cutting out of the front yard. I thought that I could ride the treadmill and get nothing done or wield the pick and make some progress on the front yard. So for 30 minutes while Starr watched from nearby I huffed and puffed, felt my heart race, raised a sweat and got about a 1/3 of the roots out.
I came in and showered, then had a quick breakfast smoothie with berries, banana and Herbalife. Since that time I've written three full reports and my eyes, hands and neck are very tired. Of course one of the reports has already been bounced as they want even more stuff this week than last week included. I'll wait until I cool down, morning perhaps before answering that one.
This afternoon between two of the reports I carried the soiled carpet runner outside to the garage and using Lois's carpet machine I cleaned away much of Starr's indiscretions.
Wishing each of you a good night and a good Wednesday tomorrow.
Love
tim
Monday, April 11, 2011
A Unique Encounter
Dear Fellow Travelers,
This morning started with a rather rude buzzing sound, it was the alarm clock reminding me I had an appointment with two very precious little girls. So the morning started. After the normal give and take between the two very headstrong girls, Kallie and Keanna they were finally at their places for the day. At that point I felt pretty awful, chest hurt, head was aching, its been much the same for days now as the allergies really set in. So after a small breakfast I set to work in the office finishing up on research. Then I took the short drive to nearby Bethel Island, a water front community that has existed for nearly 100 years.
I was not prepared for what would happen next. As I began to measure a slightly lady came out and greeted me, almost immediately we fell into conversation and I learned that she lost her beloved husband 10 years ago. As we talked we discovered many of the same feelings, the bittersweet memories of caring for our treasured spouses and finally facing the cold world without them, how no one really understands unless they have been there. So the rest of the inspection of the property was a delight. She has been a traveling professor of sociology and toured the world lecturing in many different universities in many countries. She is also quite a painter and sculptor and communicates very well. It was one of those perks that come with the job, of meeting a fine person that you would never ever meet otherwise. Will I see her again, I doubt it but for a moment our lives crossed and we could understand what the other person has experienced and felt.
After completing the Bethel Island appraisal I drifted back toward home and stopped at the Subway shop for a garden burger patty sandwich. It was great and along with some baked chips and a freshly brewed ice tea a total respite from the rush of the day.
This afternoon I settled in to complete a desk review of an appraisal that was recently completed in Livermore and then picked up Keanna. She worked on some very difficult homework and is so excited about the state testing that is about to happen to her class room. I never knew a child could be so excited about a state test but her teacher has done a great job of preparing the kids to look forward to the challenge and adventure of the test. So much for those who want us to believe that testing is a waste of time or detrimental to the child. I don't think so at all.
Eventually we met Nikki at the gas station and Keanna went her way.
This evening I drove to Rio Vista, a 40 minute drive by the Sacramento River, across the bridge and to the Trilogy 55 and over subdivision. I met the owners, a nice couple who had lots of dancing ribbons and trophies from their dancing careers. He also had loads of trophies from horse shoes which he has played all his life. Their home was cute and opened directly onto a golf course, no fence, no barriers, their lawn flowed into the golf course. Very nice.
Well not its time to close down shop for the day. Starr says she wants to go sit in the chair for a few minutes and sip a hot drink.
Love to all,
Tim
This morning started with a rather rude buzzing sound, it was the alarm clock reminding me I had an appointment with two very precious little girls. So the morning started. After the normal give and take between the two very headstrong girls, Kallie and Keanna they were finally at their places for the day. At that point I felt pretty awful, chest hurt, head was aching, its been much the same for days now as the allergies really set in. So after a small breakfast I set to work in the office finishing up on research. Then I took the short drive to nearby Bethel Island, a water front community that has existed for nearly 100 years.
I was not prepared for what would happen next. As I began to measure a slightly lady came out and greeted me, almost immediately we fell into conversation and I learned that she lost her beloved husband 10 years ago. As we talked we discovered many of the same feelings, the bittersweet memories of caring for our treasured spouses and finally facing the cold world without them, how no one really understands unless they have been there. So the rest of the inspection of the property was a delight. She has been a traveling professor of sociology and toured the world lecturing in many different universities in many countries. She is also quite a painter and sculptor and communicates very well. It was one of those perks that come with the job, of meeting a fine person that you would never ever meet otherwise. Will I see her again, I doubt it but for a moment our lives crossed and we could understand what the other person has experienced and felt.
After completing the Bethel Island appraisal I drifted back toward home and stopped at the Subway shop for a garden burger patty sandwich. It was great and along with some baked chips and a freshly brewed ice tea a total respite from the rush of the day.
This afternoon I settled in to complete a desk review of an appraisal that was recently completed in Livermore and then picked up Keanna. She worked on some very difficult homework and is so excited about the state testing that is about to happen to her class room. I never knew a child could be so excited about a state test but her teacher has done a great job of preparing the kids to look forward to the challenge and adventure of the test. So much for those who want us to believe that testing is a waste of time or detrimental to the child. I don't think so at all.
Eventually we met Nikki at the gas station and Keanna went her way.
This evening I drove to Rio Vista, a 40 minute drive by the Sacramento River, across the bridge and to the Trilogy 55 and over subdivision. I met the owners, a nice couple who had lots of dancing ribbons and trophies from their dancing careers. He also had loads of trophies from horse shoes which he has played all his life. Their home was cute and opened directly onto a golf course, no fence, no barriers, their lawn flowed into the golf course. Very nice.
Well not its time to close down shop for the day. Starr says she wants to go sit in the chair for a few minutes and sip a hot drink.
Love to all,
Tim
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Working while the sun shines
Dear Family and Friends,
Well this has been a long day and very successful. I rose this morning determined to complete three appraisals for a long time friend in Tracy, I've been planning to get to them for some time and decided today was the day.
This evening at about 6:30 I left for Tracy to deliver the finished reports and then have a late dinner at Olive Garden. Soup and Salad never tasted better. Along with their terrific decaf coffee and a couple pieces of bread, well lets just say I enjoyed my meal.
In the morning I'm helping with the girls so I had to tell Ken I could not walk in the morning. I'll be there at 6:30 and this will help Steve get a quick start to his huge project he is working on. I'm so proud of him for making the bid, creating the plans and now he is in the middle of the project taking a 1/2 acre lot from rough to finished with concrete steps, retaining walls, mature olive trees, irrigation systems, gravel, plants, and so it goes. A huge project and he is the right man for the job.
I'm really anxious to get out front and install a new sprinkler line and get some color planted. The roots of the huge plant I took out are still smiling at me but soon they are coming out. Who needs the gym when you have a yard to work in!
Good night,
Love
tim
Well this has been a long day and very successful. I rose this morning determined to complete three appraisals for a long time friend in Tracy, I've been planning to get to them for some time and decided today was the day.
This evening at about 6:30 I left for Tracy to deliver the finished reports and then have a late dinner at Olive Garden. Soup and Salad never tasted better. Along with their terrific decaf coffee and a couple pieces of bread, well lets just say I enjoyed my meal.
In the morning I'm helping with the girls so I had to tell Ken I could not walk in the morning. I'll be there at 6:30 and this will help Steve get a quick start to his huge project he is working on. I'm so proud of him for making the bid, creating the plans and now he is in the middle of the project taking a 1/2 acre lot from rough to finished with concrete steps, retaining walls, mature olive trees, irrigation systems, gravel, plants, and so it goes. A huge project and he is the right man for the job.
I'm really anxious to get out front and install a new sprinkler line and get some color planted. The roots of the huge plant I took out are still smiling at me but soon they are coming out. Who needs the gym when you have a yard to work in!
Good night,
Love
tim
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Active grandparenting
Dear Family and Friends,
What a great Sabbath! Up to ride the tredmill to help me wake up, then a quick smoothie and on time arrival for picking up the girls. They both were dressed in cute outfits. They chattered and sang songs as we drove to Tracy, then Keanna went her way where Rod led out and I took Keanna to her little group. Kim led out in a new program which involves caring for sheep but some of the sheep are missing, Kim was not amused and I'm guessing will locate the missing sheet before long.
After SS I got to see George for a few minutes. George is one of those people that radiates the love of Jesus and the love of people in all that he does. He and Yvonne have just been in Alabama where he drew up and still has roots and people he loves. He takes care of an amazing amount of details for several seniors there and they appreciate seeing him arrive.
After SS the girls had their hearts set on seeing the easter bunny who was in the mall. But when we walked up Kallie began to be reluctant and eventually decided against having her picture taken with the bunny. So as we walked away she waved at him. So instead we went to the Carosel and they both enjoyed riding the horses.
Burger King was nearby we lunch was our next stop. Then on the way out we checked out the kiddo arcade and Keanna won tons of tickets so was able to purchase several little toys for her and Kallie.
After that we walked to the van, loaded up, strapped in and drove home. They were happy to see their parents and I was happy to see their parents as well, I am always glad to take them on adventures and just as glad to return them to their parents. I think its a grandparent thing.
Later in the afternoon I rode my bike over to pick up the van only to discover they needed it for a little trip this afternoon so I brought Steves's Civic home and I'll return it and trade for the van on Monday when I take the girls to school early in the morning.
This evening I tackled a huge bush that Steve planted as a 5 gallon plant many years ago. It has grown huge and has a root ball that is 2 feet wide. Taking the sawsal to it I was able to get it cut down to the roots, now I just need to dig the roots out and I can plant some color in that corner. I also have everything I need to install better irrigation for that corner as well. So from tredmill, then bike ride against the wind and finally cutting and chopping on the plant I'm tired this evening. Yet it is a good tired, one that comes from having a really great day all around.
So I'm sending love to all,
Tim
What a great Sabbath! Up to ride the tredmill to help me wake up, then a quick smoothie and on time arrival for picking up the girls. They both were dressed in cute outfits. They chattered and sang songs as we drove to Tracy, then Keanna went her way where Rod led out and I took Keanna to her little group. Kim led out in a new program which involves caring for sheep but some of the sheep are missing, Kim was not amused and I'm guessing will locate the missing sheet before long.
After SS I got to see George for a few minutes. George is one of those people that radiates the love of Jesus and the love of people in all that he does. He and Yvonne have just been in Alabama where he drew up and still has roots and people he loves. He takes care of an amazing amount of details for several seniors there and they appreciate seeing him arrive.
After SS the girls had their hearts set on seeing the easter bunny who was in the mall. But when we walked up Kallie began to be reluctant and eventually decided against having her picture taken with the bunny. So as we walked away she waved at him. So instead we went to the Carosel and they both enjoyed riding the horses.
Burger King was nearby we lunch was our next stop. Then on the way out we checked out the kiddo arcade and Keanna won tons of tickets so was able to purchase several little toys for her and Kallie.
After that we walked to the van, loaded up, strapped in and drove home. They were happy to see their parents and I was happy to see their parents as well, I am always glad to take them on adventures and just as glad to return them to their parents. I think its a grandparent thing.
Later in the afternoon I rode my bike over to pick up the van only to discover they needed it for a little trip this afternoon so I brought Steves's Civic home and I'll return it and trade for the van on Monday when I take the girls to school early in the morning.
This evening I tackled a huge bush that Steve planted as a 5 gallon plant many years ago. It has grown huge and has a root ball that is 2 feet wide. Taking the sawsal to it I was able to get it cut down to the roots, now I just need to dig the roots out and I can plant some color in that corner. I also have everything I need to install better irrigation for that corner as well. So from tredmill, then bike ride against the wind and finally cutting and chopping on the plant I'm tired this evening. Yet it is a good tired, one that comes from having a really great day all around.
So I'm sending love to all,
Tim
Friday, April 8, 2011
Finishing strong
Dear Family and Friends,
On this blustery spring day I continued to keep busy. Up and to Livermore at 8:30 this morning I inspected a nice updated little home. Then to keep the momentum going it was fill with fuel and then head down 580 to 680 to Lafayette. It was very interesting to watch the computer in the van register the miles per gallon. I put a 1/2 tank in the was on the freeway in 5 minutes. Then noting the GPS displaying an on time arrival I idled back to 65 and then 60 mph. By the time I reached the exit in Lafayette the van was delivering 31.4 mpg. That is simply amazing for a car that heavy to get that kind of mileage. Of course when I left the freeway and was on surface streets it quickly dropped to about 24 mpg. After the Lafayette appraisal was over I then headed to Pleasanton for a nice lunch date with a friend. Unfortunately she had to leave work ill so we have to do a rain check.
With the extra time before picking up Keanna at school I went into Brentwood and had an estimate on the van for the damage caused by a piece of wood that flew up from the road when the van was coming back from Lodi. Amazingly the estimate is over $1,300 and I've turned it in to the insurance company so I'll only have to cover the deductible. Then it was school to pick up Keanna. She settled in for some down time and I discovered the the comcast internet was down. It turned out to be down the rest of the afternoon and then when it came back up the rest of the network went down. Hours later and with help from a good rep at ACN it is all back up and working well again. Not the way I planned to spend the afternoon time, planned to pull weeks but when the network goes down the ability to create work ceases, that is serious.
Now its time to head to bed. Not sure if the girls are going to SS in the morning or not. I'm going to their house at 9 am and I'll find out then. I hope they can go, last week I was away and so were they so its good to get back to SS again.
I thank the Lord for the many blessings of this week. I feel so encouraged by the volume of work that has come in and my ability to concentrate on getting it out. I'm going to close tonight with some photos taken in the backyard of the home in Lafayette today, Three deer were just totally comfortable living there and I walked to within a couple feet of them before they moved on. Always impressed with deer, they are so beautiful, of course they are murder on landscaping and gardening.
Love Tim
have a great Sabbath
On this blustery spring day I continued to keep busy. Up and to Livermore at 8:30 this morning I inspected a nice updated little home. Then to keep the momentum going it was fill with fuel and then head down 580 to 680 to Lafayette. It was very interesting to watch the computer in the van register the miles per gallon. I put a 1/2 tank in the was on the freeway in 5 minutes. Then noting the GPS displaying an on time arrival I idled back to 65 and then 60 mph. By the time I reached the exit in Lafayette the van was delivering 31.4 mpg. That is simply amazing for a car that heavy to get that kind of mileage. Of course when I left the freeway and was on surface streets it quickly dropped to about 24 mpg. After the Lafayette appraisal was over I then headed to Pleasanton for a nice lunch date with a friend. Unfortunately she had to leave work ill so we have to do a rain check.
With the extra time before picking up Keanna at school I went into Brentwood and had an estimate on the van for the damage caused by a piece of wood that flew up from the road when the van was coming back from Lodi. Amazingly the estimate is over $1,300 and I've turned it in to the insurance company so I'll only have to cover the deductible. Then it was school to pick up Keanna. She settled in for some down time and I discovered the the comcast internet was down. It turned out to be down the rest of the afternoon and then when it came back up the rest of the network went down. Hours later and with help from a good rep at ACN it is all back up and working well again. Not the way I planned to spend the afternoon time, planned to pull weeks but when the network goes down the ability to create work ceases, that is serious.
Now its time to head to bed. Not sure if the girls are going to SS in the morning or not. I'm going to their house at 9 am and I'll find out then. I hope they can go, last week I was away and so were they so its good to get back to SS again.
I thank the Lord for the many blessings of this week. I feel so encouraged by the volume of work that has come in and my ability to concentrate on getting it out. I'm going to close tonight with some photos taken in the backyard of the home in Lafayette today, Three deer were just totally comfortable living there and I walked to within a couple feet of them before they moved on. Always impressed with deer, they are so beautiful, of course they are murder on landscaping and gardening.
Love Tim
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Keeping up the pressure
Dear Family and Friends,
Another of those really productive days with a great outcome at the end.
Starr and I rolled out to find the room freezing this morning, at least it felt like it.
As soon as I came down I went to work, with a smoothie in one hand and Starr in the other we came to the office.
During the day I proceeded to get out 5 reports, now to be fair they were drivebys that do not require as much labor but I was motivated by a couple things. First was a nice checking waiting for me when I delivered the reports to Pleasanton and the second was a really nice lady to hand me the check. And everything I remembered from an inspection of her home long ago continues to be true. She is really a great lady. After I delivered the reports I located the local Red Robin and had a garden burger. What a great meal.
On the way over it started to rain and then it even snowed a bit on the windshield. Going over Vasco Road the hills were white, we really don't see snow that often around here. Brother Jerry says they have snow on the ground again and I sense he is tired of snow for the season. He told me about a concert they went to last night, a southern gospel trio that could make wonderful music and today he and Donna have listened to the CDs they got last night on their new Bose player. I can almost hear the great music.
Well its bed time once again. I'm in Livermore at 8:30 in the morning and then Lafayette at 10 and then lunch with a friend in Pleasanton. I'm looking forward to the day a lot.
Today I needed a certain amount of money, a lot and the check had already come from the insurance company demanding payment. In the mail nearly the exact amount appeared from a client, it was one of those slow down and just be thankful moments as I walked back into the house. Wow, what a blessing.
Love to all
Tim
Another of those really productive days with a great outcome at the end.
Starr and I rolled out to find the room freezing this morning, at least it felt like it.
As soon as I came down I went to work, with a smoothie in one hand and Starr in the other we came to the office.
During the day I proceeded to get out 5 reports, now to be fair they were drivebys that do not require as much labor but I was motivated by a couple things. First was a nice checking waiting for me when I delivered the reports to Pleasanton and the second was a really nice lady to hand me the check. And everything I remembered from an inspection of her home long ago continues to be true. She is really a great lady. After I delivered the reports I located the local Red Robin and had a garden burger. What a great meal.
On the way over it started to rain and then it even snowed a bit on the windshield. Going over Vasco Road the hills were white, we really don't see snow that often around here. Brother Jerry says they have snow on the ground again and I sense he is tired of snow for the season. He told me about a concert they went to last night, a southern gospel trio that could make wonderful music and today he and Donna have listened to the CDs they got last night on their new Bose player. I can almost hear the great music.
Well its bed time once again. I'm in Livermore at 8:30 in the morning and then Lafayette at 10 and then lunch with a friend in Pleasanton. I'm looking forward to the day a lot.
Today I needed a certain amount of money, a lot and the check had already come from the insurance company demanding payment. In the mail nearly the exact amount appeared from a client, it was one of those slow down and just be thankful moments as I walked back into the house. Wow, what a blessing.
Love to all
Tim
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
It hurts so good
Dear Friends and Family,
What a day, really good overall. Lots of production and Keanna came to visit at 12:45. We drove to Antioch, did a driveby review and then visited the ToyRUs where Keanna made a purchase with her own dimes, quarters and nickles. She counted them out and was so proud of her accomplishments. She also was kind enough to point out what is needed for Easter and for her upcoming birthday when she will be 8.
We also did a driveby in nearby Bethel Island while we were out. She played on my phone but the smurfs died because pappa was to cheap to buy them food (with real money no less).
After we got home I grabbed clothes and we dropped Keanna off with her mom and I headed for spin class. I'm so glad I did. Even though I hurt right now a bit the class was so incredible and today I was able to keep up for the first time, that means when others were up pumping I was too and when they were leaning on their handlebars called Butt Out per Kim the teacher I was too. The knees did not hurt today and I was able to do so much more. Felt good to walk out soaked but doing OK.
Came home and baked some potatoes in the oven while I showered and smothered them in broc and cheese that I made in the microwave oven. It was a great meal.
So now I'm going to bed. I've written three reports today, inspected three and took in three orders late this afternoon, blessed, you bet.
Love to all,
Tim
What a day, really good overall. Lots of production and Keanna came to visit at 12:45. We drove to Antioch, did a driveby review and then visited the ToyRUs where Keanna made a purchase with her own dimes, quarters and nickles. She counted them out and was so proud of her accomplishments. She also was kind enough to point out what is needed for Easter and for her upcoming birthday when she will be 8.
We also did a driveby in nearby Bethel Island while we were out. She played on my phone but the smurfs died because pappa was to cheap to buy them food (with real money no less).
After we got home I grabbed clothes and we dropped Keanna off with her mom and I headed for spin class. I'm so glad I did. Even though I hurt right now a bit the class was so incredible and today I was able to keep up for the first time, that means when others were up pumping I was too and when they were leaning on their handlebars called Butt Out per Kim the teacher I was too. The knees did not hurt today and I was able to do so much more. Felt good to walk out soaked but doing OK.
Came home and baked some potatoes in the oven while I showered and smothered them in broc and cheese that I made in the microwave oven. It was a great meal.
So now I'm going to bed. I've written three reports today, inspected three and took in three orders late this afternoon, blessed, you bet.
Love to all,
Tim
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Short and sweet
Hi
This has been one of those days with some positive parts and some rather negative ones.
I jumped up this morning and onto the tredmill, got to admit its pretty nice because as I ride I look to the left right out over the lake and in the morning it is beautiful and to the right is the flat screen TV I got for Nan's birthday several years ago, I bought it and Tom Miller installed in the same afternoon of the party. What a great friend Tom has been over the years, so capable and skilled.
So as I ride I watch Fox news bring me up to speed on all the wonderful things happening in the world and then I turn to look at the lake. Before long the 30 minutes of riding is over and then its shower time. Talk about pure pleasure, nothing like good hot water streaming over your shoulders and through your hair.
By then Starr is up and ready to be transported downstairs. I have a basket I carry her in.
Once downstairs I make the smoothie, this morning it had almonds, strawberries, banana, protein powder and soy milk. It is so good and is enough to make it to a late lunch later in the day.
This morning I was blessed with new orders so I set them up and made appointments. Then I set to work to write up reports and as usual some go easy and so go very hard.
This evening I went to Weight Watchers where I found the 5 pounds I had lost last time two weeks ago. That was a bummer so I celebrated my bad fortune by having pizza and salad with Lois and Ray. It was neighbors night because LeAnn and Gina were there too enjoying dinner.
I had purchased groceries at Food Maxx so I put them away. I noticed that NCIS was on so I took a break and watched a very good episode, love the ensemble of characters and the writing.
Now I've just finished another appraisal and shipped it out to the lender.
So life goes, we win some and we definitely loose some but we just keep living and loving life.
Love
Tim
This has been one of those days with some positive parts and some rather negative ones.
I jumped up this morning and onto the tredmill, got to admit its pretty nice because as I ride I look to the left right out over the lake and in the morning it is beautiful and to the right is the flat screen TV I got for Nan's birthday several years ago, I bought it and Tom Miller installed in the same afternoon of the party. What a great friend Tom has been over the years, so capable and skilled.
So as I ride I watch Fox news bring me up to speed on all the wonderful things happening in the world and then I turn to look at the lake. Before long the 30 minutes of riding is over and then its shower time. Talk about pure pleasure, nothing like good hot water streaming over your shoulders and through your hair.
By then Starr is up and ready to be transported downstairs. I have a basket I carry her in.
Once downstairs I make the smoothie, this morning it had almonds, strawberries, banana, protein powder and soy milk. It is so good and is enough to make it to a late lunch later in the day.
This morning I was blessed with new orders so I set them up and made appointments. Then I set to work to write up reports and as usual some go easy and so go very hard.
This evening I went to Weight Watchers where I found the 5 pounds I had lost last time two weeks ago. That was a bummer so I celebrated my bad fortune by having pizza and salad with Lois and Ray. It was neighbors night because LeAnn and Gina were there too enjoying dinner.
I had purchased groceries at Food Maxx so I put them away. I noticed that NCIS was on so I took a break and watched a very good episode, love the ensemble of characters and the writing.
Now I've just finished another appraisal and shipped it out to the lender.
So life goes, we win some and we definitely loose some but we just keep living and loving life.
Love
Tim
Monday, April 4, 2011
Productive day
Greetings from the work desk,
Today has been an incredible day in spite of the way it started. Awake at 4 am this morning a multitude of things rushed through my mind is swirls denying me the sleep I craved. Finally at 6:15 the alarm went off giving me a reason to get up. I felt lousy, throat hurt and the room was spinning a bit. Ken was waiting as I stumbled out the front door and we walked mostly in silence our three incredibly long miles.
By the time I got back I felt better and after the long hot shower I felt even better, still I was filled with foreboding about the day, there was so much to do. Instead of messing around I waded in in. I enjoyed a wonderful Herbalife shake, all 32 ounces of it. Into the mix went some almonds, Jo had suggested that, also a banana, strawberries and some extra protein powder. The end product tasted just great and lasted until about 2 this afternoon when I made a griller on thin bread. By that time I had finished the first appraisal, got all the orders set up and had made appointments for early evening to see properties.
When I delivered Keanna to her mom I went on, made a deposit at the greedy bank, then drove to CVS for meds they forgot to give me the other night, a wasted trip, errr. Then on to Antioch to see a pretty messed up house, shoot the comps, then drive back to Discovery Bay West, see yet another home and then finally arrive back at home. This evening I've been writing and just emailed out the second appraisal for today, it was a rush and now after this brief interlude its bed time. This one is going to feel real good. Starr has already signalled that she thought it was time to go to sleep.
I shot a photo as the sun set over our Willow Lake so I'll sign off with that photo. There is beauty in lots of places if we pause to look.
Love to all,
Tim
Today has been an incredible day in spite of the way it started. Awake at 4 am this morning a multitude of things rushed through my mind is swirls denying me the sleep I craved. Finally at 6:15 the alarm went off giving me a reason to get up. I felt lousy, throat hurt and the room was spinning a bit. Ken was waiting as I stumbled out the front door and we walked mostly in silence our three incredibly long miles.
By the time I got back I felt better and after the long hot shower I felt even better, still I was filled with foreboding about the day, there was so much to do. Instead of messing around I waded in in. I enjoyed a wonderful Herbalife shake, all 32 ounces of it. Into the mix went some almonds, Jo had suggested that, also a banana, strawberries and some extra protein powder. The end product tasted just great and lasted until about 2 this afternoon when I made a griller on thin bread. By that time I had finished the first appraisal, got all the orders set up and had made appointments for early evening to see properties.
When I delivered Keanna to her mom I went on, made a deposit at the greedy bank, then drove to CVS for meds they forgot to give me the other night, a wasted trip, errr. Then on to Antioch to see a pretty messed up house, shoot the comps, then drive back to Discovery Bay West, see yet another home and then finally arrive back at home. This evening I've been writing and just emailed out the second appraisal for today, it was a rush and now after this brief interlude its bed time. This one is going to feel real good. Starr has already signalled that she thought it was time to go to sleep.
I shot a photo as the sun set over our Willow Lake so I'll sign off with that photo. There is beauty in lots of places if we pause to look.
Love to all,
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Back from Paradise (MBA)
Good evening
I'm back from a weekend trip to Monterey Bay Academy located along the famous Monterey Bay near La Selva Beach and Watsonville. The weather was perfect, the family was in great shape, we ate great food, made smores by the fire, fixed a few things today and Timothy and I did a big puzzle together this afternoon before I left. I got to watch the sleeping kids while Jason and Jo slipped away to town for a bit this afternoon and they both stayed asleep for most of the time. Over the weekend I must have held Mia for hours and it was so great, she is strong, quick, active and smiles all the time. What a great little kiddo. Timothy is bright, stubborn, talented and totally enjoyable.
Today was so nice that even Virginia got to come out of her cage. She is a tortoise and loves to much grass and to travel around.
Today we fixed a few things, Jason helped mount some accessories on my bike and I was on the top of my motorhome securing the awning fastener that holds it to the coach, Fortunately I noticed it loose last night and took the awning down. The awning is reaching the end of its useful life and is showing signs of wear and tear after these 9 years. One more thing to spend money to repair or replace.
Well the week is upon us, it will be busy, productive and I hope income producing as well. I hope your week goes well for you as well. What are the current projects, dreams, goals you are working towards? Always good to have some idea of what you would like to accomplish or see happen.
So good night friends and family,
Love to all,
Tim
I'm back from a weekend trip to Monterey Bay Academy located along the famous Monterey Bay near La Selva Beach and Watsonville. The weather was perfect, the family was in great shape, we ate great food, made smores by the fire, fixed a few things today and Timothy and I did a big puzzle together this afternoon before I left. I got to watch the sleeping kids while Jason and Jo slipped away to town for a bit this afternoon and they both stayed asleep for most of the time. Over the weekend I must have held Mia for hours and it was so great, she is strong, quick, active and smiles all the time. What a great little kiddo. Timothy is bright, stubborn, talented and totally enjoyable.
Today was so nice that even Virginia got to come out of her cage. She is a tortoise and loves to much grass and to travel around.
Today we fixed a few things, Jason helped mount some accessories on my bike and I was on the top of my motorhome securing the awning fastener that holds it to the coach, Fortunately I noticed it loose last night and took the awning down. The awning is reaching the end of its useful life and is showing signs of wear and tear after these 9 years. One more thing to spend money to repair or replace.
Well the week is upon us, it will be busy, productive and I hope income producing as well. I hope your week goes well for you as well. What are the current projects, dreams, goals you are working towards? Always good to have some idea of what you would like to accomplish or see happen.
So good night friends and family,
Love to all,
Tim
Saturday, April 2, 2011
A great day with family.
Dear family and friends,
I'm writing as the kiddos are going to sleep. These r exciting kids with so much personality. It is so much fun to watch them in action. Getting to hold Mia and experience her wild arm movements, listen to her constant chatter and looking into her big eyes is very special. Both children are feeling better and this afternoon we walked over to the new children's play area where Timothy played with his friend the twins and their Papa, Scott. The sun had broken through and the afternoon was perfect.
This morning I rose to find a great breakfast prepared by Jason. We had chocolate chip pancakes, breakfast sausages and a terrific smoothly prepared by Jo. Then I got to hold Mia while Jo went to a woman's study group and Jason got ready for church. My church attendance was impossible since I had forgotten to include any pants in the supplied I loaded into the motorhome. I went for a bike ride which included stops by the ocean. Looking down from the cliff I watched the waves from several different vantage points and eventually made my way back to the house by riding up the sloping roads. It was a great morning to ride.
Jo prepared some great food for lunch. This evening we ordered Chinese food from a place we like that is located in Watsonville. It really hit the spot and even Timothy cleaned his plate. So good.
Timothy let me work on a puzzle with him until bedtime arrived. Then reluctantly Timothy went to sleep and Jason and I had a great chance to talk about many different things. I'm impressed once again that my kids, all four of them, are wise, thoughtful, dedicated and very special human beings. This afternoon while I was out by the awning attached to the side of the motorhome I noticed that the connection between the motorhome and the awning is coming loose. Three important bolts appear to be loose. So in the morning its up the ladder and onto the top of the motorhome to see what can be done. Is important as the awning could come lose from the motorhome and swing out into traffic. Glad I spotted it.
Tonight the sky is filled with bright beaming stars, its a fitting end to a meaningful day.
Sending love to all,
Tim
I'm writing as the kiddos are going to sleep. These r exciting kids with so much personality. It is so much fun to watch them in action. Getting to hold Mia and experience her wild arm movements, listen to her constant chatter and looking into her big eyes is very special. Both children are feeling better and this afternoon we walked over to the new children's play area where Timothy played with his friend the twins and their Papa, Scott. The sun had broken through and the afternoon was perfect.
This morning I rose to find a great breakfast prepared by Jason. We had chocolate chip pancakes, breakfast sausages and a terrific smoothly prepared by Jo. Then I got to hold Mia while Jo went to a woman's study group and Jason got ready for church. My church attendance was impossible since I had forgotten to include any pants in the supplied I loaded into the motorhome. I went for a bike ride which included stops by the ocean. Looking down from the cliff I watched the waves from several different vantage points and eventually made my way back to the house by riding up the sloping roads. It was a great morning to ride.
Jo prepared some great food for lunch. This evening we ordered Chinese food from a place we like that is located in Watsonville. It really hit the spot and even Timothy cleaned his plate. So good.
Timothy let me work on a puzzle with him until bedtime arrived. Then reluctantly Timothy went to sleep and Jason and I had a great chance to talk about many different things. I'm impressed once again that my kids, all four of them, are wise, thoughtful, dedicated and very special human beings. This afternoon while I was out by the awning attached to the side of the motorhome I noticed that the connection between the motorhome and the awning is coming loose. Three important bolts appear to be loose. So in the morning its up the ladder and onto the top of the motorhome to see what can be done. Is important as the awning could come lose from the motorhome and swing out into traffic. Glad I spotted it.
Tonight the sky is filled with bright beaming stars, its a fitting end to a meaningful day.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Friday, April 1, 2011
At mba with Jo, Jason, Timothy, mia
Good evening,
After a long day I've settled in for the night in the motorhome. Starr and I are enjoying this beautiful place once again. Jason and family are doing well. I have so much admiration for Jo after the weeks she has been through, up all hours with Jason helping all he can and still keep his eyes open to teach his many classes. I arrived abut 5:45 and Mia and Jo welcomed me from their elevated porch. Mia is growing so fast and is just this amazing baby, so fun to hold and talk to. Then there is Timothy who is already to throw a ball, play trains, read books, sing songs. What a guy.
I'm parked in such a way that I can see the ocean from the side window of the motorhome and if I open the windows I can hear the breakers hit the beach. Its cooling off nicely tonight after a rather warm day.
This morning I inspected a home in Mountain House near Tracy. It was perfectly maintained and they had a couple beautiful Japanese Maple trees that were just beautiful. After completing that job I headed for Pleasanton to do a couple driveby reports for an estate. Once that was done I turned for home and started loading up the motorhome. Starr grew increasingly unhappy thinking I was going to leave her. Well I didn't and in spite of her lack of mobility she loves to be in the motorhome. What a great little trooper she is.
So now its time to get some sleep. I've been up later than planned for many nights and tonight I'll do some catching up. In a lot of ways this has been a difficult week, some of the less than ideal moments are personal in nature, others you know about, the new challenge of finding enough funds to cover a monthly house payment again. Its an exciting challenge and I plan to meet it with increased income and spending less.
As I drove down this afternoon I was reminding myself of the security that comes from being connected to the God of the heavens. While the world gets more and more unsettled I find I just need to check in with God much more often. I live in this world where I have this ideal for myself, a world where I am disciplined, organized, frugal yet generous, balanced and get adequate amounts of rest, veges, fruits, water, exercise. Yet I fall so far short of the ideal, its disheartening and often nearly brings me to just give up.
Yet I was not raised to be a quitter, to give up on life, to cash it in. We are a family of problem solvers and so a weekend like this is so beneficial, it gives me a quiet chance to regroup, to be reminded of what is really important and then head home to take care of my clients and help with this wonderful family I've been granted.
So friends and family, lets pray for one another and hang on, Jesus is coming.
Love
tim
After a long day I've settled in for the night in the motorhome. Starr and I are enjoying this beautiful place once again. Jason and family are doing well. I have so much admiration for Jo after the weeks she has been through, up all hours with Jason helping all he can and still keep his eyes open to teach his many classes. I arrived abut 5:45 and Mia and Jo welcomed me from their elevated porch. Mia is growing so fast and is just this amazing baby, so fun to hold and talk to. Then there is Timothy who is already to throw a ball, play trains, read books, sing songs. What a guy.
I'm parked in such a way that I can see the ocean from the side window of the motorhome and if I open the windows I can hear the breakers hit the beach. Its cooling off nicely tonight after a rather warm day.
This morning I inspected a home in Mountain House near Tracy. It was perfectly maintained and they had a couple beautiful Japanese Maple trees that were just beautiful. After completing that job I headed for Pleasanton to do a couple driveby reports for an estate. Once that was done I turned for home and started loading up the motorhome. Starr grew increasingly unhappy thinking I was going to leave her. Well I didn't and in spite of her lack of mobility she loves to be in the motorhome. What a great little trooper she is.
So now its time to get some sleep. I've been up later than planned for many nights and tonight I'll do some catching up. In a lot of ways this has been a difficult week, some of the less than ideal moments are personal in nature, others you know about, the new challenge of finding enough funds to cover a monthly house payment again. Its an exciting challenge and I plan to meet it with increased income and spending less.
As I drove down this afternoon I was reminding myself of the security that comes from being connected to the God of the heavens. While the world gets more and more unsettled I find I just need to check in with God much more often. I live in this world where I have this ideal for myself, a world where I am disciplined, organized, frugal yet generous, balanced and get adequate amounts of rest, veges, fruits, water, exercise. Yet I fall so far short of the ideal, its disheartening and often nearly brings me to just give up.
Yet I was not raised to be a quitter, to give up on life, to cash it in. We are a family of problem solvers and so a weekend like this is so beneficial, it gives me a quiet chance to regroup, to be reminded of what is really important and then head home to take care of my clients and help with this wonderful family I've been granted.
So friends and family, lets pray for one another and hang on, Jesus is coming.
Love
tim
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