A Pleasant Summer

Dear Family and Friends,
Well this has been a good one, lots of free labor accomplished and finally a report written and emailed out a few minutes ago.

Ken and I walked this morning at 6:30 and then I came in and just went to work.  We took some time this morning to teach Marilyn the basics of setting up new orders and of course she caught on instantly.  We ended up trying for a couple hours to make the lower office computer print to my three printers in the upper office.  We were never successful but I sure wasted a bunch of precious time.

We've had orders come in all day and now I've created a large board with each order clearly marked showing when we have it scheduled, when it has been seen and when it is due.  That will help keep things operating smoothly.

I dealt with many conditions today and questions, value checks and phone calls.  This evening I was able to settle in and work.  Now I'm totally exhausted, neck is sore, finger does not want to work but there is also a sense of accomplishment.  It is one thing to pray and hope for orders, then it is the followup taking care to communicate with the clients, the homeowners and agents.

This evening I was able to make my old camera work again but instead of taking the new one back I think I'll just keep it and enjoy its nicer features and very slick size.  It was only $100 so I think it is a worthy investment. 

With all this work its been disappointing to not receive any money in the mail for several days.  I know there is a boat load of checks coming but of course I want them now, not then.

Its a real trip to be busy again.  My personality is such that I do my best work when I'm facing deadlines.  I've appreciated Steve's help and today he got an order of his own from a management company.  That was so exciting for both of us as I want him to prosper, he is a very solid appraiser, just got shut out of the business, now with the abundance of work he is starting to enjoy creating appraisals again.

Its time to wind it up for the day.  This evening I've been listening to Frank Sinatra on XM through my computer, a nice change from the classical fare that I ususally have on.  What a great blessing music is, what a pleasure to enjoy all kinds of music and feel the effect music can have, a mood maker, a mood changer.

Sending to love to all,

Tim

Today is hard to explain.....

Some days certainly go smoother than others.  I started at 6 this morning, wrote an appraisal which was submitted at 9:30 after a number of hitches popped up.

We left for Tracy where I inspected a really great property with some acreage connected, an indoor pool, a huge shop and very friendly people.  As I walked up to the house and turned my camera on it failed.  No amount of coaxing could get it to work again.  Well I did that property with my IPhone camera and then headed to CostCo where I filled up the tank, we drove the Civic today since the bug needs brakes desperately.  Then I slipped inside and purchased a $100 camera, went to the car, opened it and found out how to set the photos on the lowest setting.  I also discovered that the battery was not charged and it takes a special battery, a rechargeable one. 

Our next stop was Best Buys where I purchased an inverter that puts out 110 volts so i could charge the camera.  1 hour late at this point we headed to Alamo.  Once again I found a beautiful property, spent time taking it all in and then went to the car to discover my research had been for Danville, not Alamo so there were no comps to shoot.

We quickly went over to Danville to see yet another property, inspected it and the camera went dead again, battery was not charged enough so we finished that inspection with the Iphone and shot some of the comps.  We were so tight on time that we had to leave to drive to Pittsburg to see a little duplex.  The agents promised to meet us there but of course no agents.  I did have my SupraKey so I opened it up, inspected it and we completed our work.

Then it was time to head to Pleasant Hill.  The inspection was a riot, the lady was so funny and bright, great visit.  Then we shot the comps and drove back to Danville to complete the comps, then Marilyn thought of the pizza we had enjoyed in Clayton so we drove there and had salad and pizza.  Terrific food.

Now we are home to an email full of orders, concerns, things to fix.  I will say this, it is certainly a busy time right now, amazingly busy and I am so thankful.  Just trying to keep up and its not easy.

Sending love to all

Tim

Long Day

Dear Family and Friends,

On my way to bed, wishing a good week for you and yours.  Worked all day, got a lot done, seeing 5 tomorrow. Up at 6 to write one more before 10 am in Tracy, then Alamo, Danville, Pittsburg and Pleasant Hill, should keep me busy.

Sending love to all

Tim

So the motorhome is once again on the road!!

This morning my renters arrived in mass. There were 5 of them and it took a couple hours teaching them the systems so their trip could be enjoyable.  They are very nice people and I enjoyed my time with them greatly.  The motorhome came together nicely so it looked good as they arrived.

Now I wait hoping all goes well for them.  They seem quite capable of doing things right and I hope the motorhome holds together for them.  Still have some left over issues from the last renters, broken front window, fuel gauge does not work etc.
I used some spot carpet cleaner that Bob Sorensen gave me long ago.  It worked magic on a couple stains so when it comes back I'll do more of that.

It has been a lovely warm day here.  Jason called to say it was in the 60s there.  He knows if he is having fog that we are having a hot day.  I got to talk to him for awhile while he was working the beach watching over the kids to keep them safe and behaved.  Tall order for teenagers!

Well its off to bed now as tomorrow has to be a production day from start to finish with as many reports out the door as possible.  many more orders have arrived so it looks like a great week ahead.  Thank you Lord for work.

Love

tim

It all comes together

Good evening
This was yet another whirlwind days.  I started out this morning at 6 and wrote an appraisal, then at 8:15 I started to do research for the three properties, Napa, Pleasanton and Apple Hill here in Brentwood.  Marilyn rode shotgun as we left for Napa, the traffic was decent but as we neared Highway 80 the fog bank moved in dropping the temperature to a nice 65 degrees.  The home is Napa was a typical rental, rough and very lived in.  The owner was a super guy and the visit went well.

On the way to Pleasanton we spotted a Sonic and made a quick stop grabbing a burger for Marilyn and a grilled cheese and tots for me.  It tasted as good as it was bad for me but it sure filled the spot.  Marilyn however objected to her burger which was warm on one side and cold and soggy on the other side, Picky picky!

Leaving the nice temps behind we arrived in Pleasanton to 97 degrees.  I quickly measured the cluster home, that is a home built very near to its neighbors and with all homes sharing a common driveway.  Once the comps were done we had time enough for a CostCo stop.  We found water, fresh peaches, strawberries, bananas, mocha and nice soft toilet paper!  Made my day.

We had taken the motorhome to Borden Junction Garage on Wednesday and Pat was able to get to it today.  He dropped the tank just enough to take out the guy's channel lock wrench and remove the wiring harness from where it had been squashed.  He was unable to find the wire that leads to the gas gauge so my renters will leave tomorrow without a fuel gauge which is not the best solution but with such a huge tank it will work out OK.  Our goal is to try to use the motorhome, burn the gas until it is nearly empty, then Pat can drop the tank out and solve the remaining problem.  He did not charge me today, just kept it in the computer for when we solve the whole problem.

So on the way back I stopped by to check up on the coach, dropped Marilyn and the groceries off and went on to Brentwood.  Once again a cute house, nice family and a pleasant time.  Once I was through I stopped by Ace and picked up the screws I needed to fix the door to the bathroom in the coach and came home.  I was so relieved to be through for the week, actually thrilled.

So we ask Lois to join us and we went to Kentucky Fried so Marilyn could get her fix.  I had a mac and cheese and root beer freeze.  Lois had a pot pie.  Then we went by the hardware store again and had keys made so everyone of the renters that are leaving for Burning Man tomorrow will have an access key to the coach.  We also picked up more screws to fix other things that had come loose in the motorhome.  A little WD40 made the door close easier and our fix of the bathroom door came out perfect.  It fits perfectly and you'd never know there was a problem.  We also fixed the curtain, secured the visor on the passenger side and discovered that a whole drawer of kitchen stuff is gone.  We need to ask our renters where it went, I think they took it out so they would have room for their stuff and its sitting in their garage right now.  Sylvia worked too hard to make sure everything was in the coach to have it disappear.

I am so thankful for the work this week has brought, for safety on the roads, for good health and for the energy to tackle tough assignments.  What a week this has been, lots of stress, pressure and rewards from jobs accomplished.

Love to all

Tim

A Very Long Day

Good evening

We are just back from doing two appraisals in Oakland.  The first was an amazing ultra modern house home with a nice family, she a fashion designer and he a contractor.  The second required our driving all over the oakland hills to find 7 comps the original appraiser had used in the report.

Now we are home and I'm so tired that this missive will be short.

I wrote two reports this morning, did reseach, made appointments and found out that the shop has not been able to even check out the motorhome yet, time is running very short for the repairs I need to make.

Lots of stress in the air right now with orders all over the place, people with needs asking for help but if I could stop coughing life would be pretty good, today the coughing has been awful and tonight my throat is very sore, raw even.  When I get the doctor bill paid I'll head back for a followup.

So thankful for work, just need strength to get it done.

Sending love

Tim

Cranking out the work

As long as the work is available I'm going to try to take advantage of it and crank through it.

Today I was able to see a couple properties with Steve so we both can get stuff done faster.  Its been warm today, warmer than usual for this nice summer.

This morning Ken and I walked at 6 and then he was kind enough to help me get the motorhome to Borden Junction Garage where I have my work done often.  I've not heard back from them today but I did have an unpleasant conversation with Jason, the manager of Meineke in Reno.  I don't think he gets it, how close he came to causing a fire that could have endangered the lives of this precious family.  He still has a lot of bluster, I asked him to pay the local shop doing the fix up work directly and he was pretty upset about that.  Not sure how all of this will shake out but I know the Lord is still in control.

Keanna came this afternoon, worked on her cursive writing, we read a story together and her ability to liven up a story is just great, had me cracking up.

Well I've seen two today and written two plus mess with the motorhome stuff as well.  Now its time for BED.

Love to all

Tim

And the beat goes on

Dear Family and Friends

Nearly in bed now, dead tired, satisfied too.  Morning came early at 6:30 we were walking, at 7:30 I was at my desk, picked up Keanna at 2:38 and then returned for more work.  She is doing so great on her cursive writing, her spelling, what a bright girl. 
At 4:30 I had to leave for appointments.

During the day I climbed under the motorhome to see what I could see of the fuel tank, pump and wiring. What I found was totally unbelievable.  You've all heard of a sponge being left in during surgery, well check out this photo!

Obviously there was some very shoddy work done in Reno.  At this point the manager of the Reno store is allowing me to take the motorhome in for repairs at my local shop and Pat at Borden Junction has been kind enough to fit the motorhome in for this work.  I was so shocked when I slid under the motorhome and put my head up, there was the wrench strapped securely in place and there was the wiring harness cramped flat under the other bracket.  No wonder I have no fuel gauge action.  Its amazing anything works.
All of this and orders coming out of my ears.  I guess everyone in the business is swamped right now with refi deals, rates are super low.

Well got to go but just wanted to share an example of Meineke work!  Thats the shop that fixed the motorhome, yikes, makes you wonder about the rest and all for just $1,429.  What a deal!

Love to all

Tim

A Great Summer

Dear Family and Friends,
This day started with doing something good for myself, do you find it is easier to do things for others than to just do things for yourself?  It is sure the case for me.  Do I need to exercise?  Well duh, do I faithfully exercise, well no!  Why not?  Well there is this vital report that needs to be written and the world will stop turning if I dare take an hour for a walk!

So Ken and I walked and it felt good.  When we got back we consulted on the needed bathroom door repairs and then I came in, showered, had oatmeal and set to work.  I wrote an appraisal and then left for Castro Valley, a really nice place to live.  The home was great and in perfect condition, the owner was a pleasant lady.  Once I left CV then I headed to Mountain House.  Mountain House is this small community where all the homes are new, 10 years ago it was an open field, now it has thousands of homes which of course have been terribly battered by the economy.  What I saw today was nearly 3,800 Sq.Ft. and selling for $405,000.  Lots of house for the money.  Once I had seen the house I beat it for Tracy where I had an oil change at Speedee.  I really like them and compared to the price I was quoted in Brentwood at $92 they were a bargain.  $74 for 5-40 synthetic and I'm good for a few more miles.

Following up on the motorhome today I called the local repair facilities connected to the company in Reno that did the shoddy work.  You see Reno said, oh my we are so sorry, just go to one of our places there and have it fixed.  Well first Tracy said no, then Antioch and finally Stockton, all telling the same story, they did not have any room to work on a motorhome and were pretty sure they could not help.  So I'm still in a lurch.  Even my own mechanic is not sure he wants to take this one when he has a full week planned already.  So I may end up having the work done by SpeeDee in Tracy, it might be an easy fix and it might be a huge job and the Reno shop is going to pay for it. 

My next renter called today and confirmed that he is picking it up this weekend, oh joy, no pressure or anything and I'm slammed with appraisal work.  Lord I need your calm direction and help.

So I'm thrilled to be busy, just want to keep up with everybody which is not easy to do.

Sending love to all,

Tim

The Motorhome is home

Dear Family and Friends,

So at long last the motorhome is home sitting in the driveway.  The interior is amazingly clean and it smells great.  In spite of all the rough times the family had a great trip and saw many exciting things, wolves, bears, dear, mountain goats, buffalow, mud baths, Old Faithful and a whole lot more.

The renter brought the motorhome back this afternoon and we went over its several new defects.  Plus I got the shocking number for the fuel pump installation.  Over $1,400 for the job that failed 15 miles later and poured fuel all over the road and motorhome.  Only the good Lord kept it from catching fire.

Last evening after the gas mishap Dave climbed under the motorhome and was able to click the fuel line into place where it stayed put for the rest of the trip.  The repair people caused the fuel gauge not to work so that is yet another problem.  I've asked that they stop payment with their credit card company and I'll get the motorhome fixed here locally and deduct the cost of the fix it repairs from the amount I'll pay for their work.  My dear renters could have been killed with raw fuel pouring all over and who knows for how long it has leaked.

So this afternoon Dave drove the motorhome here and then I drove him to his home in Danville.  At least they are home safely and ready for school, work and post vacation times.

This morning I crawled out determined to get work done.  I had planned for 5 but with having to take Dave home I only completed three but I'm pretty thrilled about that.

Right now I'm so tired from stress and concentration that I'm about to drop.  It is such a blessing to have work and I'm deeply grateful to have it.  This is a different kind of stress from that of having no work and thinking you are going under. 

So here comes the new week, are you ready?  Am I ready?  We will see.

Love to all,

tim

ps  Recently Jason and Jo gave me my birthday gifts and amoung them was one I treasure, a jar of jam that they made together after picking the berries.  Thank you for your thoughtfulness!  It tastes great, I mean really great.

Rental drama continues....

Dear Family and Friends,
As many of you know I rent the motorhome that Nan and I purchased in 2002.  So far the rentals have been pretty mundane with nothing happening.

My current 3 week rental has been anything but mundane. I got one text that said they were in Idaho and all was well.

This morning the call came in, they were stuck.  Last night when they pulled into the RV park in Reno the motorhome would not start.  so they had it towed this morning and found a repair place that dropped the fuel tank, replaced the fuel tank.  So at 4:30 this afternoon they texted they were leaving Reno, a little while later another text said, motorhome failed on freeway near border, calling tow truck.

Next text said, gas everywhere, have pulled everyone out of the motorhome, next text said, Dave clicked the fuel line back together, we are back on the road

Next text said, past Donner Summit, nothing more since then.  I think they might be home by now.  They have been so patient and level headed the whole trip.  It will take awhile to sort out everything but I'm just so glad that at this point they are safe, at least I'm praying that they are.

Take care my friend,  life has its challenges and we just step up and meet them or run from them.  Stepping up seems to work best.

Love to all

Tim

An Incredible Day

Some days go better than others.

Mine started at 6 am.  I came down and went directly to the office, started working and finished the third appraisal report at 5 this afternoon.  Other than mocha breaks, burger for lunch etc I just kept at the task.  What a rewarding feeling it is to get work done and beyond that to have so many orders to deal with.  Like wow!

After the appraisal was sent out Marilyn had dinner ready.  Whole wheat pasta with mock chicken and mushrooms.  It was really great.  Lois joined us since Ray was gone to San Jose.

After dinner I decided to face other challenges.  Why not make the lawn mower work?  So I headed out, put gas in and got out the starter fluid.  But before the starter fluid I decided to pull the cord, yep after a year without working it started right up and ran perfectly the rest of the time.  I even mowed Ray and Lois's lawn.  Then it was time for the edger and that ran well too.  Then I fed the lawn and turned on the sprinklers. 

This has been the day that I was hoping for for awhile.  Production and then there is the 5 new orders that came in today, when it rains it pours.  Now just to do the right thing, stay on it and get this work completed.

Well tomorrow morning Keanna plays soccer at 10:30 so I don't think I'll be doing SS.  Little Keanna charges around the field and wears herself out.  It is a great experience.

Well for now I'll just say this has been some day.

I am so thankful to our good Lord who seems to have a sense of humor, after a year of praying over the lawnmower it starts on the first pull, after months of little work now it floods in!  Thank you Lord.

Love to all,

special thanks to all who are helping Seth get back into MBA.  Your investment in a young person is just wonderful.

Tim

Helping hands

First off I just want to express gratitude for your helping hands with Seth, MBA student.  While more help is needed a special thanks to those who have responded so far,  you have made a huge difference in a young person's life.

This has been an epic day.  I crawled out at 6 and started work a few minutes later.  I set up orders, did research and at 11:20 we left in the little Civic for Petaluma.  Our trip was enjoyable and we arrived on time.  I found a very nice remodeled home.  Once we were through we located a Burger King for vege burger and salad.  Then we headed for Napa and once again arrived on time, in fact early enough that I grabbed a tiny nap.

The home was built in 1957 and in such great updated condition.  He is from England and enjoys his work in the vineyards for three different wineries.  Comps were hard to find for this home which is located in the older section of Napa.  Once we were through we set the GPS for Dublin and encountered some traffic as we made our way.  We arrived on time in Dublin where I found a very appealing condo in a huge 800 unit complex built by the Toll Brothers.  The little place had crown moldings, granite and stainless steel, high quality appliances and even had a fireplace.  The owner was a long distance bike rider and had several really great bikes in the living room.  I don't think he had an ounce of fat anywhere on his body.

Once we were through the sun had set and we turned for home.  Since the fuel light was on we found a station at the Livermore end of Vasco road where fuel was only $3.54 a gallon.  Upon filling the tank I made the happy discovery that we had obtained 35.9 mpg.  Not bad at all.  Now we are home, tired and heading to sleep, a much deserved sleep.  I think Marilyn is catching up on General Hospital which the DVR captured for her.

Tomorrow is a huge write up day, got to finish about 4 or else tomorrow.  So thankful for work.

Love to all,

Tim

You can help.

Good evening
Earlier today I received this email from my son Jason who is on the staff of Monterey Bay Academy as an english teacher.  He has a very special feeling for the students and is seeking some help for a very special student.  Here is Jason's email,

Hey Dad,


I am writing to you today on behalf of one of my seniors here at MBA named Seth who needs some help. Seth is a student who came new to MBA last year as a junior and made a profound impact right away. He's musically talented, creatively blessed and one of those kids who really brings his whole class up. At the end of the year, Seth was even elected as an Associated Student Body officer for his senior year.

Unfortunately, Seth's family has some struggles making the finances work. About two years ago, Seth's mom passed away after a battle with cancer and Seth's dad has three other kids who are also in Adventist schools, the oldest in Adventist college. Seth came to MBA because his mom was an alum and it was a place where he could heal and grow after losing her. His experience has been tremendous here and he wants to return in the worst way, but he has some financial hurdles to return. While MBA is ready to help Seth work out financial arrangements that would include a lot of aid for the coming year, the school has insisted that he pay off the balance of his bill from last year first. From what I understand, Seth needs about $600 to close the gap and finish off that bill.

I know that times are tough, but I need help to get Seth back to MBA. Jo and I have committed to helping him buy his school books for the coming year but we are not able to do any more for him financially. Can you help? Do you know anyone else who might be able to help? I wouldn't ask if I didn't believe in Seth. I do though; he is truly the kind of student that is worth the investment, both for the ways he contributes to our campus, but also for the ways he will contribute beyond our campus. I've been talking and praying with Seth throughout the summer and right now he needs a miracle to make this happen. We started school on Monday and Seth couldn't be here. He's already missing some school, but he is still fulfilling his ASB office via texting and email, which is I think is representative of his quality as a young man.

Seth is a great kid and it would be amazing to have him back here. Please help if you can.

Thanks,

Jason Mustard
 
I've had a chance to speak to some of you personally and have been gratified by the responses so far.  Funds need to be directed to MBA with a sticky note on the check that says Seth so the school will know where to apply the funds.
 
Checks should be made out to Monterey Bay Academy and mailed to the school at 783 San Andreas Road, La Selva Beach, CA 95076.  Any amount you could share would be a help and would have a direct bearing on a young life that is headed the correct direction.
 
If you have questions about MBA check out the web using any search engine and you will get a grasp of how special this institution really is.
 
If you have any reason to contact me my cell is 925 998 9855 or Jason at jmustard@montereybayacademy.org.
 
Thanks so much,
 
Love
 
tim

Writing from Daly City

Good evening
Today has been great. Started at 6 am. Up quick to write a report. Then arrange a new E&O policy, then set up five orders! Then do research and finally leave for Daly City to inspect a home built on a steep hill. We r talking very steep. Imagine my surprise when I looked across the street to see a little Asian girl pushing a baby buggy straight up the hill with two tiny children behind her. Quite amazing.  The slope of the hill was so steep I could hardly stand up yet here she was with her three children going straight up the hill.

I started this blog tonight on the iphone at a IHOP we found in Daly City.  Both of us were hungry so after a stack of whole wheat pancakes I felt much better.  There was almost no traffic coming home and we arrived just before 11.

This has been a good day.  While driving home this evening Jason sent me a touching text.  A young person who is trying to come to MBA is $600 short for his entrance and Jason was asking if I knew of anyone who could help.  I'll check with a few of you tomorrow to see if you could chip in something to help, it will be totally tax deductible and the money will go directly to MBA, not to an individual.  Should you want to be involved text me at 925 998 9855 or email at timmustard@yahoo.com and we will make the right connections.  How glad I am that Jason's heart continues to be with his students.

So now its time to fold, love to all

Tim

Piling up the miles

Dear Friends and Family,

I started this day at 6 am, wrote a report and 1/2 of another one before leaving at 10 for Watsonville.  After an uneventful drive I inspected a townhome with very nice owners, three charming doggies and a couple of very happy cats.  As soon as the inspection was over we drove over to MBA and managed to see Jason on his way to class and spent some really fun time with Timothy and Mia.

What fun to see these little ones in action.  Timothy was able to demonstrate his new bike riding skills and Mia showed off her new crawling and almost standing up skills.  There is nothing slow about these exciting kiddos.  Jo and Jason are doing a great job with these precious little gifts from God.

Once we left MBA we headed for Clayton, a town that is about 96 miles.  Although we encountered some traffic mostly it was a good trip.  The Clayton home had been updated in such an outstanding manner, had a direct view of Mt Diablo and a nice large site.  Afterwards we had some pizza from a local place that was outstanding.  Then we came home via the back roads and arrived here about 8:30. 

We drove hundreds of miles today and it was a very successful day.  We also picked up at least 4 new orders during the day which will help a lot.

So for now I'm sending each of you a pleasant dreams message.

Love'

Tim

Cranking out the work

Dear Family and Friends

This morning started with a 3 mile walk around the lake in the cool part of the day.  Ken and I were once again able to hook up for our little jaunt around the lake and enjoyed seeing many other walkers out enjoying the time.

Once I returned I had breakfast, eggs, toast from the bread I baked with cherry tomatoes and mushrooms cooked in.  Once a week I have to reload my pill box and with the addition of several D pills the boxes are really full.  Jim said I needed a lot more D so now I'm on board.

I was very sleepy during a part of the morning and settled into the recliner in my master bedroom and just snoozed finding it hard to eventually wake up, get up, shower and start working.  Eventually I did just that and after a couple ice teas I began to emerge from the fog.  For lunch I had a bacon and tomato sandwich which was very good.

I've written two fairly challenging reports this afternoon and evening but have a couple more to get out.  At this point my mind has shut down so its to bed after I finish this missive.   Tomorrow promises to be interesting as I need to travel to Watsonville for a small townhome, then back to Clayton for a reverse mortgage.  I also need to reinspect a property up Highway 9 near Ben Lomond but I can't get the owners to ever respond to my calls.

Today I heard nothing from my courageous motorhome renters so I hope that means everything is working well.  That is what I hope and pray for.

Its been a good day and this evening Marilyn forsake her laptop games, her avid TV watching and reading her kindle for the kitchen.  We dined on baked potatoes, salad, corn and it was all very good!!

So until next time, love to all,

Tim

Gerry Lammerding in the hospital

Dear Family and Friends,
We are just back from an afternoon drive to Roseville to visit our dear friend Gerry Lammerding.  Barb called this afternoon to tell me that Gerry woke and could not breath very well.  He asked her to call 911 which she did.  The results were that he was transported to the Kaiser ER and then admitted to the hospital.  Since that time they have been pulling a lot of fluid off his lungs where it had collected.  He has been informed that he suffers from Congenital Heart Failure.

When we walked in he was in great spirits, had just finished a good meal and had good skin color again.  We were able to stay with him for about 45 minutes and then left to dine at the Old Spaghetti Factory which is located nearby.  I'm sure that Barb and Gerry would appreciate your prayers this evening.

This morning I had the high honor of escorting Kallie to Sabbath School.  Emily was in charge and did a great job of leading out with the three little girls in attendance.  Later two more little girls came in, in time for treats.  After we were through with SS we caught lunch at McDonalds and drove to Oakley to see Keanna play very hard in a soccer game.  The little tykes are amazing as they race around trying to move the ball.

This afternoon I caught a few winks.  My day had started with the renter of the motorhome texting me that they had spent the night without any lights or electrical power but they were not complaining.  As I texted it came to me that perhaps when the guy towed the coach he had pushed the kill switch which disconnects the coach batteries.  Sure enough that was it and the last I heard from the renters they were in good spirits looking forward to the day and seeing more of the park.  I just hope the repairs the local repairman did this morning really will help keep the coach going.  I've placed their safety and vacation in the Lord's hands.

Well I'm very tired and worn out.

Sending love to all

Tim

At last its Friday

Another rollercoaster day.  Here's why!

This morning I rose at 5:30 so I could write and send an appraisal.  With that completed I had a quick breakfast of oatmeal and fresh peaches.  It was time to leave for Livermore, a 35 minute drive and that went well. Arriving at the home I found a beautiful structure on a large quiet lot, tremendous Jewish people and an enjoyable experience.  I was on the way back when I got the call.  My motorhome renter was on the phone and told me that after dumping the tanks the motorhome would not start, no amount of coaxing would get it started so Good Sam towed it to a service station, repair center near old faithful in yellowstone.

As soon as I got home I started called and after a long time I found the actual mechanic that was on it.  Would you believe he has just stopped working on GM cars for a different place and knew the problem, seems the fuel pump which is placed INSIDE the 55 gallon fuel tank had a wiring problem, by the time I talked with him he had tweaked the connections and had it running again but it was unreliable.  We decided to go for a new fuel pump and new wiring harness, he thought he could have them there by tomorrow, later he called to say it would be Tuesday.  He said the renters could park at the station and be safe.  Hours passed and then this evening the renter called to say they had no lights, no power and the generator would not start.  I asked him to plug in at the station but all the workers had gone home and the station was locked up tight.  So after many dropped calls and his battery failing we determined that he could start the motorhome engine and let it run for an hour charging up the coach batteries and then the generator would start once again.  The renters are being very nice about all this but I feel terrible not being there to solve their problems.  Somehow the batteries have been allowed to run down, I fear the inverter has been left in the on position, anyway I think they are set for the night.  In the morning the service station is going to try cleaning all the connections as well as possible and see if that will solve the problems.  I know this is in the Lord's hands and I'm just hoping they can have a good night with power and lights.

I picked up Keanna at 2:37 and then we picked up Kallie.  We all went to a dog wedding her friends had at the park.  It was a little crazy.  After dropping the girls off I ended up in Brentwood to get two more tires for the bug, one was really bad and needed replacing.  While they were off I saw that the brakes are gone so new pads are on the horizon, probably rotors too.

I made the mistake this morning while I was driving to Livermore of thinking that things were going pretty well, I had made a double house payment this morning and yet had a few bucks to pay other bills.  How quickly things can change.

So now we are entering those special hours that for me are Sabbath.  A time of rest and letting go what can be let go of.  In the morning I'll take Kallie to Sabbath School and then we will return to see Keanna play soccer, poor little thing, she runs her heart out and in the heat.  I'm so proud of her.

Well enjoy your weekend, please love the one you are with, love them so they know they are loved.  Remember, you get to do it, I don't so love them right while you have each other, right!

Love

tim

Back to work

Good evening

I'm just back from an afternoon of seeing properties.  The first was a delightful property located on a quiet court in Danville.  Complete with solar heated pool and spa, large creekside site, completely updated this home was near perfect.  Then it was on to a two story home on a street of duet homes, not so easy to find comparables for.  Then our last stop was at a place Nikki located some time ago.  The food is nearly instant and very good and we relaxed while catching our breath after fighting traffic, searching for the right comps and feeling the blood sugar drop.

Once we hit the road at 8:30 the traffic opened up and we had a nice ride home.

This morning at 8:15 I was at my doctor's office and before much time passed I was in seeing Jim.  The blood work really looked good on all counts so that was nice.  Now if I could just get my finger fixed that hurts a lot, solve the coughing problem and dump at least 20 pounds, well it is good to have something to look for, to hope for, to stretch for.

Tomorrow I'm back to Livermore at 9:30 to see a property, then back to the office to write and write, at 2:37 I pick up Keanna who wants to attend a dog wedding at the park, see life is never dull when you have little people in it!!

Remember all those sad days a month ago when I was longing for checks in the mail, recently it seems a check or two arrives nearly every day.  Can you imagine how thankful I am for these daily blessings and for the new work that comes in.

Right now I'm heading to bed to get up at 5:30 to write write write again.

Sending love to all of you and many thanks for the birthday greetings.  Right now it is over 60 face book happy birthday greetings.  How warm that makes me feel.  My friends, the kids friends, high school classmates, college contacts, business friends.  Nice to be remembered.

Love to all

Tim

One year older and medicare just two years away

Dear Family and Friends,

Well today has been remarkable in several ways.  Great conversations with Nikki and Jason, afternoon visit by Keanna, evening desert on the back deck next door with Ray and Lois and nearly 50 birthday greetings on Facebook.  I just want to express my appreciation for all the happy birthdays I received today through Facebook and then through the IPHONE.  What a surprise hearing from so many friends and fellow students from the past years.  It felt good and I appreciate it very much.

When I saw Nikki she handed me this cupcake, oh I treasure those things and it was sooooo good.  I came home and with a fork enjoyed every bite including the frosting, the crumbs and the delicious cake itself.  Wow.

The first thing this morning was 30 minutes on the tred mill.  It is rough duty.  I have only to turn my head and the direct view is the lake with the swam gliding across the water, the morning chill wafting through the room and of course FOX news bringing the me the great news that Scot Walker and his fellow republicans had beated back the organized efforts of the unions.  Who knows what the final outcome will be as a weak republican has offered to vote with the dems.  Someone must stop the spending, not just tweak it, stop it cold if we are to have a decent american for our little ones. 

On this happy day I've written up a report for a purchase for a young couple, researched new orders and set them up, done homework with Keanna, observed as she is doing better and better with her gymnastics and welcomed Marilyn back from the Sacramento jungles where she has been for the weekend.

In the morning I face the music, I mean I have a Dr. appointment with Jim and we will see how we are doing.  It is at 8:15, so the morning will be a rush once I get up.

I think I will like being 63, like what choice do I have?  Funny how young people cannot begin to understand what it is like to grow older, I know I had no idea, it just creeps up on each of us.  How I love being alive though, to get to watch keanna's mind work as she does her homework, as she wrestled with ethical realities, of dealing with older mean kids, of wanting to be a dancer, of just doing a great job with being a student.  Its great fun.

Hopefully I'll get to see Timothy and Mia soon.  I have an appraisal in Watsonville to see soon but so far the owner has not called me back.

To the many people who wished a happy birthday today I say thank you very much, it was a nice thing to do for an old guy.

Love to all

Tim

A Big Full Day

On the road again!

Up this morning at 6, breakfast over and working by 6:45, finished report and emailed it out, left for Fairfield at 11:15, stopped at Post Office to mail printed appraisals, arrived late in Fairfield, who knew they were rebuilding a bridge and traffic was limited to a slow trip across.

Lovely young renters, house was perfect, on the road again for Oakland, arrived in the roughest part of Oakland, not really fun, you just keep your eyes open and try NOT to make eye contact with anyone or show your camera until you just have to for the shot, gladly left oakland for Tracy at 3:30.  Arrived in Tracy to the minute on time.  The home was perfectly decorated and in wonderful condition outside as well. What a delight!

Then to Safeway for diesel for $3.96 a gallon.  Home to pizza with Ray and Lois, marilyn had arrived home, Ray knew so I texted her and she came to have some food and fellowship.

Now home to set up THREE new orders, yea!  I like things right now, wish it could keep going like this, orders coming from new clients which is so sweet.

Heading for bed, head aches, lots of coughing in the last hour, tired and worn out but feel so good about having a good work day.

Love to all

Tim

Moving forward

Dear Family and Friends,

Our weather continues to be wonderful, even now it has cooled off this evening, no AC needed and gentle breezes off the lake coming through.  Its a huge blessing to have such decent weather, helps with my work and saves big bucks.

Today was good, real good.  This morning started with an inspection of a little home on nearly an acre.  The young people that are buying the home already live there and have made it into such a cute place.  After I was there a bit I discovered that they know Steve really well and I almost missed my next appointment as I enjoyed the conversation so much.  The guy makes wake skates, a board with a very clever design.  He is making enough to sell now and is a professional wake boarder too.  Has a boat of the same vintage as mine only his works well.

After the appointment I next went to Quest Lab for a blood draw.  That actually turned out to be fun, nice staff running the place.

Then Steve and I had breakfast at the famous Byron Cafe, oh there food is so great.  While I was there Steve asked if I could pick up Keanna from school which I was very glad to do.  We had a fun time, hit the safeway store for popcorn and stuff and then came home where I worked and she did her homework.  This kid is so bright and loves school work.  Its a joy to watch her at work and see her mind churn out the answers.  later we went and picked up Kallie, brought her home and she was here for a little bit until her mom came and snatched them away.

This evening it was back to Brentwood for meds, just $110 for a month for this one really super injectible diabetes drug but now I'm set for the next month.  I also talked to my loan company for the house and they decided to accept payment for June and July which I'll pay by Friday.  I just might keep my house for awhile after all, thank you Lord!

Well now its time to crash, it was hard to sleep last night so I'm really ready now.  Tomorrow its Fairfield, Oakland and Tracy in that order, at least its work!

Love to all

Tim

Incredible weather for August

Dear Family and Friends,
After sleeping until Family Radio woke me on the alarm clock I showered and made steel cut oats in the microwave, not as good as slow cooked all night but with banana the bowl was pretty good.

After doing research and writing an appraisal I prepared to leave for Lafayette.  Ray decided he would like to go so we had a good time measuring and inspecting the very nice older home, shot the comps and then ended up at Frys where Ray walked me row by row showing me what they had to offer.  I am blown away by all the new stuff that is for sale, stuff that I don't even know what it does.  Row after row of cables, devices, things that are new to me.

I found what I was looking for and after standing in a very long line made my purchases and headed out.  Ray had seen a 99 cent store so he showed me the isles of that lovely place as well.  How can they fill a store with stuff that never sells for more than 99 cents?  Just amazing but if you cut off shipments from China the store would close, even food items are straight from China, amazing really.

I drove the back roads home and we arrived safe and sound after a long day. Lois reports Ray is fast sleep in his chair now.

Tomorrow morning is blood work time and then an 8:30 appraisal in Brentwood, then back for more blood work and then back home to write some things up.  I've very thankful that at the present time I have work and much of it is paying work!

Sending love to all,

Tim

An Unusually Restful Day

Dear Family and Friends,

This day started rather abruptly as the phone rang and it was a calm but concerned Nikki.  I had the important soccer bag in the trunk of the bug, I forgot it was there and did not leave it when I took the girls home last night.  Now it was morning, Soccer photos of the team were imminent and I had the bag.

So my casual morning was speeded up.  The bag got there and the photos were taken and Keanna played her heart out in this first of many games of the season.  We found shade under a row of trees at the edge of the huge field where the children played and it was just a nice time to catch up with my kids and friends who also had children on the team.

Once soccer was over everyone went their own way and I sought out breakfast.  Nations happen to come up first and their omelet was great and cheap.  I mostly rested during the day until this evening when Ray and Lois suggested a burrito at our little place in Brentwood.  While we were enjoying the meal Nikki called to suggest a BBQ they were having for friends and I jumped at the chance.  These are fun people to socialize with and Nikki and Steve always throw a very impressive party with great food.

Now I'm just home from the party and winding down for the night.  While I was out today I had some credit at the ACE hardware store so I picked up a tiny snake, the kind that you use to unclog drains.  I've had two sinks in the house that drain very slowly which is mildly irritating and has been for years.  No more, I came home and using the little snake cleared both drains in minutes, now the water can keep up with the flow from the faucet.  Its a little victory but nice.  Also when I woke from my nap this afternoon I looked around my bedroom and went yuk.  Pillows, folded blankets, breathing machine supplies and such were all over the room, it was cluttered and looked awful.  Funny I've not noticed it until today.  So I got up, put mounds of stuff where it belonged in the closet, threw stuff away that was no longer needed and uncluttered the room.  I moved the ski machine exercise device to a better out of the way location, cleared the recliner that has had noone sitting in it for years, plopped down and turning on the TV found the Gather Music Celebration.  It was a tremendous show with outstanding music and I just sat and enjoyed it.  I felt a strange longing inside to sing again.  Music has opened doors for me all of my life.  At 5 and 6 I was singing for Christmas programs for hundreds of people, at 15 I sang for the Oregon Gladstone Campmeeting with thousands in attendance, at 16 I cut my first album and sold it on graduation day, during college I made a second album and sold it to pay college bills, I've sung all over the world due to the kindness of others.  With the Stockton Chorale I've done Notre Dame in Paris, Saint Stephens in Austria, major concert halls in Australia and New Zealand and even Carnegie Hall in New York.  The voice God gave me has opened doors, created experiences, helped me persuade Nan to consider marrying me, helped in ministry, then helped with the Roger Peden Chorale and then the Adoration Singers.
I think I can once again sing, not like before but I think I can and why not.  So I feel the crack of a new door opening.

After a rather terrible day yesterday today has been a blessing of peace and calm.  For that I am thankful.

I just want to mention someone who has never given up on me, that is Dolly Vogel, she is faithful in her emails encouraging me and I just want to say how much I appreciate her kindness.

Sending love to all,

Here are a few photos of my very special kiddos:

A very Long day

Dear Family and Friends,

I'm just home at 1 am.  Not that I mind that at all.  For after a really tough day of ups and downs at 4 the girls came to visit.  We left at 5 for the soccer field in Brentwood and found it sort of by accident.  Keanna played her heart out and Kallie and I spent time in the shade, getting to know one of the moms and then ended up with Kallie leading me to the play structure where she used the slide, I pushed her in the swings and she had a good time.  Once Keanna was through with her hour and 10 minutes of soccer she wanted to play at the structure as well so back we went.

Once we left Keanna needed a rest room, parks do not have bathrooms anymore because so much of society just ruin them.  We had to drive to McDonalds for the bathroom and while there the girls developed an appetite.  Then they decided to play in the play area.  While there we witnessed a rather large lady who bossed and yelled at several children keeping at least one in tears at all times.  The girls watched sort of spell bound and later told me they would rather be there with me than her.

We drove back to their home and Keanna hit the shower, Kallie dressed for bed and after reading a cute story about Olivia she snuggled in for the night.  Keanna took a little longer to snuggle but eventually did.  The dogs and I turned the lights down and rested until Nikki and Steve arrived home from their wonderful concert with Toby Keith at the Shoreline.

It will be a short night as Keanna has to be back in Brentwood for soccer photos in the morning at 8:15.  I won't need to be there until 9:15 for some soccer action.

As I rethought the day the contrast between all that had gone down during the day and the time spent with the girls was remarkable.  I was reminded this morning of a concern expressed in the bible about the wicked prospering.  Someone who I have very little respect for was promoted to a position and sent me an email as a jab, saying Nan would be so proud.  It was just hard to deal with.  There is a lot more to the story that I can't go into here.  It was a hard task to climb out the funk the nasty email started but the girls sure did it well later in the day.

I'm very glad the Sabbath rest hours have arrived.  It seems there is stress and tension almost all the time in just trying to hold my little world together, the finances are always a huge challenge, a challenge I am gradually winning but the progress is so slow.  I can see that in two years the tides will begin to turn and if business increases the turn could come faster.  I literally think twice before I buy anything no matter how large or small.  For example I've discovered that one can purchase paper towels that come off in full sheets or half sheets, the half sheets save money.  I've reduced the lights in the house I turn on and never leave the TV on when I leave the room, I only use the AC if the kids are coming over or there are guests, I only buy just what I need for groceries and I never buy a drink with meals when I eat out now which saves nearly $2.00 at every meal.

Well since it is now 1:38 perhaps its time to let it go, express how much people mean to me, friends, new friends and dear family members, how I love to hear, to keep in touch.

Love to all,

tim

Back to work

Dear Family and Friends

I'm experiencing a different kind of work load now.  My two main clients, QVS and AppraiserLoft have given me NO orders for nearly 2 weeks but other clients have stepped up so I still have work to do.

This morning I rolled out early and came down to write a report.  At 9:15 I completed it and emailed it to the lender, felt good to get it done on time.  Then I left for Sunnyvale where I inspected an older home which was being purchased by grandchildren for their family.  Funny how the same house in Sunnyvale is worth nearly a million dollars that in another town would be worth $130K.  Its all location.  Imagine my shock when the buyer asked me as I drove up how much the report was going to be as he needed to give me a check.  Wow its been awhile since that happened so I came home with a check I did not expect.  Thank you Lord.

After inspecting the house my blood sugar was dropping so I found a Burger King.  A long time ago Yvonne mentioned how good the vegeburger was at Burger King.  She was right.  It really hit the spot today and I got to do a bit of people watching while I ate.  Then it was back to shoot about 9 comparables and head home.  On the way through Livermore diesel was $3.99, the lowest it has been in a long time.

This evening we went to the Boardwalk, a nice place here in Discovery Bay by the harbor.  I had a plate of pasta with vegetables in it and it was great and along with a glass of water was reasonable.

Tomorrow Marilyn leaves for Sacramento for a few days to see her long time friend Diane and I'll return to living alone.  Tomorrow afternoon I'll take Keanna to Soccer practice and then stay with the girls through the evening as Nikki and Steve head to a special concert, I'm delighted that they are getting to go out for the evening.

While no money arrived in the mail today I know a large check is on its way and a smaller check is also coming so things are looking up.  With the arrival of these checks I'll try to make a double house payment if they will accept it.  I hope they will.

Sending love to all,

Tim

Mustard Acres, RV Parking by Willow Lake

Dear Family and Friends,
This morning I woke to a stunningly beautiful RV in my driveway.  Art and Connie came in last night, we backed it in and they spent a quiet night.  So at 7:30 Art and I did the 3 mile walk around the lake and in the course of the hike we settled most of the worlds problems, took notice of several rather nice looking ladies who were also out walking, I noticed and of course Art being happily married looked the other way until they had passed!!

Afterwards we went to have breakfast at the Byron Inn, the food was incredibly delicious and a very enjoyable experience.  Then we drove to Brentwood to A1 Smog where we had the Odyssey tested and a smog certificate was emailed to Sacramento, all for an incredible $75 bucks.  What ever happened to the old days when smog check was $25?

Having finished our mission we returned home where Art and Connie gave guided tours to the interested parties, what a lovely interior the 5th wheel trailer has!  Then they pulled out to head to Tracy and I went to work. 

At 12:45 we picked up Miss Keanna who is delighting in her new teacher.  By the time we reached McDonald's she had her homework completed.  We enjoyed a lunch in a very busy crowd and then drove back home.  Smurfs are the toy they are giving out now and she got ones she already has.

At 3:50 I had Keanna at the Black Diamond gymnastics center where she had a blast with her class.  She is getting quite good at the things they do there and has real confidence.  Afterwards we hit up Taco Bell for a burrito for her with just rice, met up with Nikki at the club and I went to spin class.  Once again it was a good experience.  I wonder what my heart thinks, all week I laze around never pushing it very hard and then wham, here comes spin class with non stop pressure for 45 minutes.  Surrounded by younger hard bodies I do my best and I do much better than the first time a year ago.  Its a great workout and drenches my body in sweat.

This evening I've been working on an appraisal, it just went out and planning tomorrow where at 11 I'm in Sunnyvale across the bay for an appraisal in a very nice neighborhood.  I'm thankful for the work that is coming in day by day.

So that's it for today, I'm loving the tomatoes that Steve and Nikki shared, I'm relieved to hear Bob's surgery went well today, I'm feeling with Wes and Nanette as they cope with their loss and very hopeful as Lois heads to her doctor tomorrow that she can get some relief for her shoulder.

This evening we are having blessed cool breezes, they are so nice.

So I'm sending love to all,

Tim

On the Road again

Dear Family and Friends,
The larger font is for my friend Lois who mentioned its easier to read.

This morning we were on the road at 8:45 and arrived on time in Hercules at 10.  I met a person who has been sharing business with me for years for the first time today.  Alex is a great guy and really gets business done.  The house was nice, the comps nearby and then we were on the road again, this time for the little quaint town of Rio Vista.  We arrived there after lunch at the Olive Garden, their salad and soup is so great.

The house was a big cluttered as the lady likes to collect things but she was great, the house perfect, the bunnies, the chickens, the dogs and the cat were all very much at home there.  Once we were through in Rio Vista we headed out with out trusty McDonalds $1.00 ice tea.  We were only on the road for a bit when traffic came to a halt and an hour later we gave up, turned about and went to Lodi, down 5 and then home on the levee road.  We never learned the reason for the hold up but it was not fun and no one ever tried to let anyone know what was wrong.

A phone call a few minutes ago brought great news.  Art and Connie are coming home from several weeks on the road and they are coming here for the night, to park in my driveway.  I'm thrilled to have them.  I also got a call from the motorhome renters and they are having a great time on the trip.  They called because they were at a RV park and could not get the electricity in the coach to work.  We worked it out, they needed to flip the breaker at the RV junction box by the coach and they were happy again.

More orders today and from a new company or two.  Very thrilling, is there hope?  It think so.

Take care and our expressions of love and comfort go to Wes and Nanette who just lost Wes's mom this week.

Love to all

Tim

Back at it....

Dear Family and Friends,
So finally the dam broke today, this afternoon three orders came rolling in and they are full fee reports, something new.  This management company charges $10 per report to handling it instead of the a third of the total fee.  I can handle that!

So I'm going to Hercules, Rio Vista and Sunnyvale.  The Hercules and Rio Vista are set for tomorrow but the Sunnyvale number does not seem to be working for access.  Two of the three orders were from a new company and that is very good news indeed.

This afternoon after clearing my desk, dealing with conditions, I left with the bug to find two back tires.  I decided I would go from dealer to dealer to find the best price but at the first one, a converted gas station in Brentwood they made a good deal so 15 minutes later I had new tires.  But they warned me that the car needs shocks badly, well it just might, the ones on it are from when it was new 247,000 miles ago.  Perhaps its time to consider shocks.  The car drove so smoothly after the new tires, it just glided along.

This evening chef Marilyn pulled out  all the stops, made a delicious dinner with lots of free food, that is veges which are free at weight watchers.  There was corn, a new kind of vegetarian chicken, mixed veges, cottage cheese, tomato slices, avocado and it was all very good.  This morning we made bread in the little bread maker and that loaf turned out great, very tasty and hearty plus we had the wonderful odor in the house for awhile.

I picked up a book that Dolly had sent, written by Joyce Meyers, she is really an amazing woman and the chapter I read had such incredible information regarding hope and sticking at ones dreams and plans.  It was a great lift and very motivational.  How often I fail to feed good things into my life and just allow the negative events rule the day.  Its good to remember from time to time that we are not alone, that there is an enemy who wants us to fail and a friend and Saviour who longs for our salvation.  Which direction will be head?  Its so easy to get wound up in selfishness, pity, bitterness, anger and wallow in it when there is a better way to live.

So tonight I'm sending my best vibes to each of you, encouraging you to face the frightening challenges that are ahead and strive again to allow a loving God to guide us forward.  Your struggles are different from mine but I know you face some, weight, anger, discouragement, relationships, money, oh there are plenty of hits on us these days but a better day is ahead if we claim it.  We can't solve everything but we can solve something.

Love

tim

National American Miss!!

We are just back from Santa Clara where we witnessed 102 young ladies compete for a crown.  Kalie was amoung the girls on the stage and had a blast thought did not win.  We drove down for this evening's show and it was well worth it.  The whole organization seems to be one that does great things for young women and the effect on the participants seems positive though there were some tears for some of the girls who had hoped to win.

This has been a day of hitting up CostCo for a few things and primarily for getting the motorhome renters on their way.

Now that was an interesting experience.  The guy reminded me so much of Will Ferrell crossed with a super nerd.  He was a great guy but needed to know everything and then why it did that, meanwhile his two little girls were enjoying getting used to the motorhome.  The wife seemed to be very normal and just sort of put up with him.  It is always a tense moment when I wave good bye to people as they drive away with the coach.  At least this time they drove away with new tires and the motorhome is as good of condition as I've had it in a long time.  Would you believe it took over two hours to get them on their way and that included a small drive around Discovery Bay as he learned to keep it on the road and by the time we got home two doors were falling off cabinets.  So I found myself with a drill, a screwdriver and some new screws putting the doors back on.  Finally they drove away and I could relax.  Of course when they drove away they did so leaving a healthy check for the deposit and the rental fee.  I am thankful to the kind Lord for this income.

As I consider the week ahead I'm praying and hoping for orders.  The last order came in on Wednesday so I'm getting desperate again knowing there will be a very dry spot in the future down the road if I don't get work in.

I'm hoping you have a good productive week and that you can accomplish what you long to be able to do.

Love to all

Tim

In the photo, Jerry, Donna, Kalie and Cindy her mom.  You can see by their faces that they are tired and very ready to head to bed.  Kalie had a beautiful evening gown that she wore tonight.