Well I should have just kept writing last night because when I went to bed sleep aluded me. It was a rough night. I'm facing some work challenges and they just kept running past my thoughts. Finally at 12:30 I came down and finished up a report, shipped it out and its been sent on to the lender, then at 2 I went back to try to sleep, there was some sleep but then the birds started up strong about 5 am. So I closed the slider and grabbed a couple more hours. I wondered how I would do today.
Once I got down to the office the day began to unravel. The first one had no comps in the entire little town of Albany, I went anyway to see it and try to make something work. Then the second one of the day was put off by the agent who really wants to be there for the inspection and he was in Montana but will back by Monday, then the next one was impossible to pin down as the sellers want to be in the house. Finally that one worked out OK but the comps are terrible for it, won't support the sales price, yikes that will not settle very well.
Once I got home I settled down and wrote an appraisal and tweaked and shipped out one Steve had written. Then a text came in that Kallie was graduating tonight so all else was forgotten. It was so cute, the little service and then we went to UNO's for a delicious meal.
Now I'm heading for bed.
Love to all
I won't be blogging again until Sunday night. There is no cell service at the camp grounds by the lake. I will leave tomorrow afternoon late and come back on Sunday in time for Kallie's birthday party.
Tim
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Tired
These days get pretty long sometimes and in spite of the really nice people I meet I'm wearing down.
This morning was another battle over whether I would walk or not but I walked and I'm glad of it. I worked as hard and fast as I could this morning until it was time to leave for appointments.
The appointments were nice, the first was an attached home that was so perfect, surrounded by flowers, interior appointed perfectly and a very nice lady who seemed to really enjoy life. It was a pleasure to meet her and enjoy the home.
The next was a quick stop to take two more photos of the sides of a home i did long ago. Lenders just keep raising the bar, pretty soon we'll be video taping the property for our records in anticipation of being sued down the road.
My last appointment of the day was back to a home where I was stood up the other day. The owner was a nurse who had just arrived home from her job in Fremont. She was delightful and had a house filled with kids who were polite and very real. Once that property was tucked away I headed home where I've worked ever since. It is busy and only seeming to get more busy. While I will enjoy the chance to get away at the campout I'm leaving a pile of work undone to do so. I'm stressed and stretched right now and I'm not sure what to do to solve even a part of it.
Could use your prayers and I thank you in advance. I can only imagine what the Toon family is coping with right now. There is nothing so hard in this life to cope with as the loss of a long loved one. nothing fills the gap, only time begins to heal and reduce the pain.
Love to all
Tim
This morning was another battle over whether I would walk or not but I walked and I'm glad of it. I worked as hard and fast as I could this morning until it was time to leave for appointments.
The appointments were nice, the first was an attached home that was so perfect, surrounded by flowers, interior appointed perfectly and a very nice lady who seemed to really enjoy life. It was a pleasure to meet her and enjoy the home.
The next was a quick stop to take two more photos of the sides of a home i did long ago. Lenders just keep raising the bar, pretty soon we'll be video taping the property for our records in anticipation of being sued down the road.
My last appointment of the day was back to a home where I was stood up the other day. The owner was a nurse who had just arrived home from her job in Fremont. She was delightful and had a house filled with kids who were polite and very real. Once that property was tucked away I headed home where I've worked ever since. It is busy and only seeming to get more busy. While I will enjoy the chance to get away at the campout I'm leaving a pile of work undone to do so. I'm stressed and stretched right now and I'm not sure what to do to solve even a part of it.
Could use your prayers and I thank you in advance. I can only imagine what the Toon family is coping with right now. There is nothing so hard in this life to cope with as the loss of a long loved one. nothing fills the gap, only time begins to heal and reduce the pain.
Love to all
Tim
Monday, May 28, 2012
Great Weather
How I love this time of the year. The nights cool down to just the right sleeping temperature without nasty AC, the days are breezy and balmy, what's not to love.
Today I had a real battle with myself, do I walk to do I skip it. I walked and it made the day better. Once I got back and showered, had breakfast I was ready to work and I've had a productive day. In between appraisals I've ventured out into the front yard and started clipping off the roses that had bloomed and just hung there. Then I trimmed off the suckers, the shoots growing for the sky but with no blooms, then I waded into this huge bush that grows like a weed in front of the front window of the house. It was crazy out of control, well no more, its trimmed back like all the rose bushes are. A few minutes ago after completing a report I headed out again and picked up all the clipped branches overfilling the green bin which the idiots only pick up every other week, the garage people are not my favorite people.
Now I've retreated back into the house having spruced up the front yard a lot. Turns out LeAnn had already been trimming some of the roses and that helped a lot. Well ask me if I still have things to write up? Yes I do but I'm more caught up than I was, progress.
This evening I baked a potato, did the stir fry thing with burger, soy sauce, brown rice, mushrooms and I let it get a little black, it tastes so good over the potato, of course I slice a tomato and put a tiny big of cottage cheese on the plate too. It makes a very good meal.
So tonight I'm going to try to get to sleep early and get caught up on my rest. Seems I never make it past the TV and then its late before I fall into bed.
I'm looking forward to the church campout this weekend. I think the motorhome is ready for the trip and to spend all that time with my Tracy church family, what a huge blessing that will be.
I received sad news last evening, a long time friend, Bill Hand has died. His was a brave battle and he has fought it well, now Sherry must cope with a very quiet house. They have owned a number of loan companies and have given me hundreds of orders over the years. Bill will be missed.
Sending love to all
Tim
Today I had a real battle with myself, do I walk to do I skip it. I walked and it made the day better. Once I got back and showered, had breakfast I was ready to work and I've had a productive day. In between appraisals I've ventured out into the front yard and started clipping off the roses that had bloomed and just hung there. Then I trimmed off the suckers, the shoots growing for the sky but with no blooms, then I waded into this huge bush that grows like a weed in front of the front window of the house. It was crazy out of control, well no more, its trimmed back like all the rose bushes are. A few minutes ago after completing a report I headed out again and picked up all the clipped branches overfilling the green bin which the idiots only pick up every other week, the garage people are not my favorite people.
Now I've retreated back into the house having spruced up the front yard a lot. Turns out LeAnn had already been trimming some of the roses and that helped a lot. Well ask me if I still have things to write up? Yes I do but I'm more caught up than I was, progress.
This evening I baked a potato, did the stir fry thing with burger, soy sauce, brown rice, mushrooms and I let it get a little black, it tastes so good over the potato, of course I slice a tomato and put a tiny big of cottage cheese on the plate too. It makes a very good meal.
So tonight I'm going to try to get to sleep early and get caught up on my rest. Seems I never make it past the TV and then its late before I fall into bed.
I'm looking forward to the church campout this weekend. I think the motorhome is ready for the trip and to spend all that time with my Tracy church family, what a huge blessing that will be.
I received sad news last evening, a long time friend, Bill Hand has died. His was a brave battle and he has fought it well, now Sherry must cope with a very quiet house. They have owned a number of loan companies and have given me hundreds of orders over the years. Bill will be missed.
Sending love to all
Tim
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Lazy Sunday
Well this morning started strong, I came right down and waded into work taking care of many conditions. Before long it was time to leave for Lodi where Shawn and Cindy oldest was graduating from high school, it was a good service and over a million dollars of scholarships were given from various colleges and universities to the 27 graduates.
Pam and I caught lunch at Strings and then she drove home and I headed back, on the way the fuel light came on and by the time I arrived back in Discovery I had about 550 miles on the tank. Finally diesel prices are dropping and with discount it was $4.03 today, better than the $4.45 I've seen elsewhere.
I came home and chatted with LeAnn, our neighbor who is just home from time in Mexico, then I took a nice nap and finally got up to make dinner, I ended up going grocery shopping and then came home, decided to watch more episodes of Missing, such a great show. Now I only have one more show to watch as we are at the end of the season I think. Terrific story and so exciting.
Now its bed time and once again I still have a stack of work to complete. Tomorrow is the magic day to get stuff done.
Good evening, congrats to the Want family with one boy graduating from the 8th grade last week and Joshua graduating today. Very exciting.
Love
tim
Pam and I caught lunch at Strings and then she drove home and I headed back, on the way the fuel light came on and by the time I arrived back in Discovery I had about 550 miles on the tank. Finally diesel prices are dropping and with discount it was $4.03 today, better than the $4.45 I've seen elsewhere.
I came home and chatted with LeAnn, our neighbor who is just home from time in Mexico, then I took a nice nap and finally got up to make dinner, I ended up going grocery shopping and then came home, decided to watch more episodes of Missing, such a great show. Now I only have one more show to watch as we are at the end of the season I think. Terrific story and so exciting.
Now its bed time and once again I still have a stack of work to complete. Tomorrow is the magic day to get stuff done.
Good evening, congrats to the Want family with one boy graduating from the 8th grade last week and Joshua graduating today. Very exciting.
Love
tim
Saturday, May 26, 2012
A Sabbath Rest
Well I've enjoyed a day which was dominated by the appraisal world. Nikki had the girls ready and they looked lovely for Sabbath School. We arrived without any blood being spilled as the girls exchanged their normal banter on the way. Due to the small size of the bugs back seat area the girls safety seats are located within reach of each other, sometimes that is not so good as tempers flash.
Sabbath School was enjoyable for the girls and I even got a chance to say hello to Sylvia, one busy lady. Then it was on to Olive Garden where since we were the first diners we got quick service. Kallie likes her chocolate milk, Keanna her carrots from my salad.
We drove home to find a clean house, Nikki had been very busy and things not only looked great but they also had that clean smell, nice work!
Sitting at my computer I fell asleep for awhile. A quick run to CostCo this evening yielded water, peanut butter and another life jacket. Want to make sure I have life jackets for the upcoming campout to keep little paddle boat users safe and sound.
This evening I've put in a new garbage disposal, the old one was really gone, was filled with water even around the motor wirings, what a mess. I have a fan going in an attempt to dry the area below the sink in the kitchen, there was water everywhere, not good. While I was working I watched an episode of the Finder, a great program that I had on DVR.
Tomorrow I'll drive to graduation at Lodi Academy to witness the graduation of one of Shawn's kiddos. Shawn and his father created the home I live in and I was honored to do their wedding long ago. Then I will rush back to crank out appraisals, I'm behind once again, no fun.
I always enjoy seeing friends at church, seeing Becky using her walker is a cultural shock, Becky is like the strongest lady I know along with Sylvia and to see her recovering from a very bad break is always a surprise. Yet we all face our challenges and she is certainly doing well with her current battle.
Love to all,
Tim
Sabbath School was enjoyable for the girls and I even got a chance to say hello to Sylvia, one busy lady. Then it was on to Olive Garden where since we were the first diners we got quick service. Kallie likes her chocolate milk, Keanna her carrots from my salad.
We drove home to find a clean house, Nikki had been very busy and things not only looked great but they also had that clean smell, nice work!
Sitting at my computer I fell asleep for awhile. A quick run to CostCo this evening yielded water, peanut butter and another life jacket. Want to make sure I have life jackets for the upcoming campout to keep little paddle boat users safe and sound.
This evening I've put in a new garbage disposal, the old one was really gone, was filled with water even around the motor wirings, what a mess. I have a fan going in an attempt to dry the area below the sink in the kitchen, there was water everywhere, not good. While I was working I watched an episode of the Finder, a great program that I had on DVR.
Tomorrow I'll drive to graduation at Lodi Academy to witness the graduation of one of Shawn's kiddos. Shawn and his father created the home I live in and I was honored to do their wedding long ago. Then I will rush back to crank out appraisals, I'm behind once again, no fun.
I always enjoy seeing friends at church, seeing Becky using her walker is a cultural shock, Becky is like the strongest lady I know along with Sylvia and to see her recovering from a very bad break is always a surprise. Yet we all face our challenges and she is certainly doing well with her current battle.
Love to all,
Tim
Friday, May 25, 2012
Safely through another week
Dear family and friends,
Right now waiting for the kids to get back from the movies. Glad they had a night out. Today was full. Lots of travel. Nice properties, surprise rain!
Right now I'm looking forward to sleep.
It's been a good week but I feel like I'm battling with blood sugar all the time. And so far I feel like I'm not winning the battle.
Got the motorhome back this afternoon and they did great work on it. So many things work now. Step, slide cover, generator, polished out panels
New tire, new beauty rim, new frig cover vent, fixed inner wall that was rotted out. Put white tape on awning to save it a little longer, they did a lot and very good work. Glad to have it back. Lois drove me into Brentwood to get it. So helpful
Tomorrow sabbath school!
Love
Tim
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Nice dinner
Friends and family, I'm just home from a very nice dinner with my new friend. Spending time and having conversations with her feels very natural and enjoyable. We at at a local place I enjoy and had wraps, salads and a special soup. What a feast.
This morning I did my walk around the lake, I'm concerned that I'm not getting enough exercise and my feet and legs are needing movement. After a quick breakfast and some research I set out for Livermore. My heart did a skip when I saw the house, angles and very complicated custom build home, yikes it took over an hour to measure and my sketch is a mess. Then it was on to Pleasanton but alas it was not to be. I got stood up, the lady forgot and called me later to express her regret. By then I had had lunch at California Pizza Kitchen and was half way back to the office. I'll have to reschedule in a few minutes.
I've been having some pretty tough bouts with coughing again, its not fun and I have a concern that at some point my body is just going to get tired of the energy it takes and stroke out.
This afternoon the motorhome repair guy, Scot called to say the motorhome was about ready, he then called later to ask if I'd like to rent the motorhome out this weekend. Well I could use an extra $300 so I said yes. I've not heard back yet whether its going to happen or not.
Well I'm heading to bed now, dead tired and out of energy. I'm so thankful for the work and I wish I could just stay home tomorrow and get it out but instead of that I'm out seeing at least two and more orders have come in to set up and plan.
I'm so glad for Steve's help with both seeing places and doing writeups. This week would have a different outcome without his help.
Sending love to all,
Tim
This morning I did my walk around the lake, I'm concerned that I'm not getting enough exercise and my feet and legs are needing movement. After a quick breakfast and some research I set out for Livermore. My heart did a skip when I saw the house, angles and very complicated custom build home, yikes it took over an hour to measure and my sketch is a mess. Then it was on to Pleasanton but alas it was not to be. I got stood up, the lady forgot and called me later to express her regret. By then I had had lunch at California Pizza Kitchen and was half way back to the office. I'll have to reschedule in a few minutes.
I've been having some pretty tough bouts with coughing again, its not fun and I have a concern that at some point my body is just going to get tired of the energy it takes and stroke out.
This afternoon the motorhome repair guy, Scot called to say the motorhome was about ready, he then called later to ask if I'd like to rent the motorhome out this weekend. Well I could use an extra $300 so I said yes. I've not heard back yet whether its going to happen or not.
Well I'm heading to bed now, dead tired and out of energy. I'm so thankful for the work and I wish I could just stay home tomorrow and get it out but instead of that I'm out seeing at least two and more orders have come in to set up and plan.
I'm so glad for Steve's help with both seeing places and doing writeups. This week would have a different outcome without his help.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
And the beat goes on and on and on
Up at 6, could not get my eyes open, so beat but a hot shower cured the blahs for awhile.
Fought traffic and I mean it was lousy this morning, fought it to Alameda where I found a lovely home at the end of a court, a court so loved that they had laid out a volley ball court with boundaries painted on the pavement in the middle of the court. The family is being moved to somewhere else so this was a relo appraisal. It will be a joy to write up. They've done all the right things and the home is great. Once finished it was a rush back to get Keanna at school. Actually had a great trip home and had to listen to talk radio to keep me awake. I arrived home a little early and then worked my way through all the mothers and grandmothers who park in rows at the school. With a little patience I can always find a place.
We came back home and after popcorn she enjoyed her programs and then created things on the back up computer. At 3:45 I took her home and Nikki took her to a swim trials event, lasted from 4:30 to about 9 tonight, Keanna is tired I'm sure but probably very happy as she did well. She has come so far in so many ways, what a delightful child.
This evening I inspected a home in Brentwood, again very nice and somewhat unusual in its layout. Then I came back home and baked a potato, stir fried some vege meal starter, a bit of brown rice, califlower and some soy sauce. Then I cooked an ear of corn in the microwave. The meal was just great and felt good to eat something solid for a change. Oh and I cut up a huge tomato to go with it.
On my way back from Brentwood I diverted to the fruit stand which was still open at that late hour. I picked up more tomatoes, a basket of strawberries and some apricots. I think I spent $6 and what a feast of great fresh food.
Well at this point I'm going to bed. Oh yes there is lots of work to finish and there is tomorrow as well.
I start the day in Livermore at 10, then push on to Fremont at noon and back to Antioch at 4. All huge homes so the day should present challenges galore.
Love to all,
Tim
Fought traffic and I mean it was lousy this morning, fought it to Alameda where I found a lovely home at the end of a court, a court so loved that they had laid out a volley ball court with boundaries painted on the pavement in the middle of the court. The family is being moved to somewhere else so this was a relo appraisal. It will be a joy to write up. They've done all the right things and the home is great. Once finished it was a rush back to get Keanna at school. Actually had a great trip home and had to listen to talk radio to keep me awake. I arrived home a little early and then worked my way through all the mothers and grandmothers who park in rows at the school. With a little patience I can always find a place.
We came back home and after popcorn she enjoyed her programs and then created things on the back up computer. At 3:45 I took her home and Nikki took her to a swim trials event, lasted from 4:30 to about 9 tonight, Keanna is tired I'm sure but probably very happy as she did well. She has come so far in so many ways, what a delightful child.
This evening I inspected a home in Brentwood, again very nice and somewhat unusual in its layout. Then I came back home and baked a potato, stir fried some vege meal starter, a bit of brown rice, califlower and some soy sauce. Then I cooked an ear of corn in the microwave. The meal was just great and felt good to eat something solid for a change. Oh and I cut up a huge tomato to go with it.
On my way back from Brentwood I diverted to the fruit stand which was still open at that late hour. I picked up more tomatoes, a basket of strawberries and some apricots. I think I spent $6 and what a feast of great fresh food.
Well at this point I'm going to bed. Oh yes there is lots of work to finish and there is tomorrow as well.
I start the day in Livermore at 10, then push on to Fremont at noon and back to Antioch at 4. All huge homes so the day should present challenges galore.
Love to all,
Tim
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Traveling man
Dear Family and Friends,
George just called to remind me, no blog yet so I'm getting with it. As is usual at this time of day I'm very tired and after days of almost no coughing today is a bad one.
This morning I rolled out at 6, researched the day and left on time at 8 am. I arrived 20 minutes early in San Anselmo and this time the owner was home. It was a lovely home and she was great, cute little 2 year old so we talked kids and I enjoyed the visit.
Once I was through in San Anselmo I left for Napa. In Napa I found a less desirable home but met an agent named Vic who was great. We inspected the home together and found less of a mess than we expected. A good crew could change things a lot over a weekend. The property has a huge lot with plenty of room to build a second home or have a pool and tennis courts. At the present time the value is probably just over $200K in its present condition.
In Napa I found a shade tree and enjoyed the yogurt and water I had brought from home in my nifty new flexible ice lunch box. Then I left for Vacaville where I had to find a property management office, get a key and then drive to the house to see it. Its a rental that was just purchased less than a month ago. I think they hope to improve their rate on a new loan. It was OK and the lady at the management company was so nice. She dug out some rent comps for me. All the while I was listening to a book on the ipod as I travelled. This is a series set in the future with a lady detective who wrestles with her own past demons and puts away bad guys or women depending on the story. They are even worth listening to over at least once. Written by Nora Roberts and help pass the hundreds of miles I drive each week.
Met up with Ray and Lois at our local pizza place tonight and I had a huge salad plus a couple pieces of pizza. Brought the rest home in the box to be metered out over the next few days one piece at a time.
Tomorrow morning I'm in Alameda for a relocation report and then back to pick up Keanna from school. The work is continuing to come in for which I'm grateful. Steve is helping a lot right now which helps us both.
My friend who I had dinner with the other night keeps popping into my mind, I think that is a very good sign!
Love to all,
Tim
George just called to remind me, no blog yet so I'm getting with it. As is usual at this time of day I'm very tired and after days of almost no coughing today is a bad one.
This morning I rolled out at 6, researched the day and left on time at 8 am. I arrived 20 minutes early in San Anselmo and this time the owner was home. It was a lovely home and she was great, cute little 2 year old so we talked kids and I enjoyed the visit.
Once I was through in San Anselmo I left for Napa. In Napa I found a less desirable home but met an agent named Vic who was great. We inspected the home together and found less of a mess than we expected. A good crew could change things a lot over a weekend. The property has a huge lot with plenty of room to build a second home or have a pool and tennis courts. At the present time the value is probably just over $200K in its present condition.
In Napa I found a shade tree and enjoyed the yogurt and water I had brought from home in my nifty new flexible ice lunch box. Then I left for Vacaville where I had to find a property management office, get a key and then drive to the house to see it. Its a rental that was just purchased less than a month ago. I think they hope to improve their rate on a new loan. It was OK and the lady at the management company was so nice. She dug out some rent comps for me. All the while I was listening to a book on the ipod as I travelled. This is a series set in the future with a lady detective who wrestles with her own past demons and puts away bad guys or women depending on the story. They are even worth listening to over at least once. Written by Nora Roberts and help pass the hundreds of miles I drive each week.
Met up with Ray and Lois at our local pizza place tonight and I had a huge salad plus a couple pieces of pizza. Brought the rest home in the box to be metered out over the next few days one piece at a time.
Tomorrow morning I'm in Alameda for a relocation report and then back to pick up Keanna from school. The work is continuing to come in for which I'm grateful. Steve is helping a lot right now which helps us both.
My friend who I had dinner with the other night keeps popping into my mind, I think that is a very good sign!
Love to all,
Tim
Monday, May 21, 2012
Keeping up, a constant challenge
Well good evening,
I'm about to call it a day. Up at 6 this morning after working with very helpful Magic Jack tech on line from some place in the world, who knows. But the first one quickly handed me off to one of their best, she said, well this time she was right. Turns out that the little extension cord between the tiny unit and the front of the computer had failed, who knows why but it had, the USB cord was not working. So after the helpful lady suggested I plug the unit directly into the usb on the front of the computer in a few minutes it was working perfectly, I was so thankful as that is my business line and not having a business line is not really good for business. But the process is slow and did not end with success until about midnight, so once again I went to bed late, today I've been listless and had a hard time focussing. No wonder and it seems everything I eat drives my blood sugar straight up, very discouraging.
This morning I met Steve at an appointment in Antioch where we worked a house together, then I drove to Oakley to deliver an appraisal I completed yesterday for a rush client, then I drove to San Leandro and inspected a house built so close to Highway 580 that you could practically feel the cars going by, you could sure hear them. No wonder it sold for below market. Nice place but bad location and the worthless soundwall across the street only lifts the noise and directs it right into the subject property. Sound walls cost a million dollars a mile and are often a waste of money but then California has so much money to spend no problem!!
After San Leandro I drove home and set to work. I've logged many completed files out, brought the computer part of the way up to date on payments, had a nice tomato sandwich and sort of dragged myself through the evening. Now its time to say good night to you and turn in.
God gave me yet another day of safety on the road, held my little car together and rewarded me with more orders for which I am grateful.
I sincerely hope your life is going well, that you are finding ways to challenge yourself and that you are growing.
Sending love to all
Tim
I'm about to call it a day. Up at 6 this morning after working with very helpful Magic Jack tech on line from some place in the world, who knows. But the first one quickly handed me off to one of their best, she said, well this time she was right. Turns out that the little extension cord between the tiny unit and the front of the computer had failed, who knows why but it had, the USB cord was not working. So after the helpful lady suggested I plug the unit directly into the usb on the front of the computer in a few minutes it was working perfectly, I was so thankful as that is my business line and not having a business line is not really good for business. But the process is slow and did not end with success until about midnight, so once again I went to bed late, today I've been listless and had a hard time focussing. No wonder and it seems everything I eat drives my blood sugar straight up, very discouraging.
This morning I met Steve at an appointment in Antioch where we worked a house together, then I drove to Oakley to deliver an appraisal I completed yesterday for a rush client, then I drove to San Leandro and inspected a house built so close to Highway 580 that you could practically feel the cars going by, you could sure hear them. No wonder it sold for below market. Nice place but bad location and the worthless soundwall across the street only lifts the noise and directs it right into the subject property. Sound walls cost a million dollars a mile and are often a waste of money but then California has so much money to spend no problem!!
After San Leandro I drove home and set to work. I've logged many completed files out, brought the computer part of the way up to date on payments, had a nice tomato sandwich and sort of dragged myself through the evening. Now its time to say good night to you and turn in.
God gave me yet another day of safety on the road, held my little car together and rewarded me with more orders for which I am grateful.
I sincerely hope your life is going well, that you are finding ways to challenge yourself and that you are growing.
Sending love to all
Tim
Sunday, May 20, 2012
She responded!
Well today has been busy and all day as I drove to Oakley, then over the Antioch bridge to 12 and then up 5 to 50 to Fair Oaks where I inspected a home, as I drove I was wondering if my friend from last night would write back and affirm that she wanted to see me again or if I would just not hear anything. This evening a very nice email arrived and it contained great news. She had fun, thought I was upbeat! So that was good news.
After I got back from the traveling part of the day I located a box and put the little infant outfits in the box and drove over to Ron and Lydia's where a BBQ was in full swing. The shower was over and the guys could attend the BBQ. While I didn't have time to stay I enjoyed seeing friends again and especially Melissa and Ryan, parents of this very exciting little guy who is to join us in about 2 months. Art and Connie were there too so that was fun to see them and say Hi to Ron who was manning the BBQ.
Once I got home I met Duckie, Lois is nursing a little lost duck or gosling back to health. Then I settled in for some work. Now its bed time and I'm not done but at least I'm started and will finish in the morning before seeing three tomorrow, the fun just keeps on rolling.
So good night my dear friends, at this point this blog has been visited over 28,000 times by friends, family and others. Wow.
Love to all
Tim
After I got back from the traveling part of the day I located a box and put the little infant outfits in the box and drove over to Ron and Lydia's where a BBQ was in full swing. The shower was over and the guys could attend the BBQ. While I didn't have time to stay I enjoyed seeing friends again and especially Melissa and Ryan, parents of this very exciting little guy who is to join us in about 2 months. Art and Connie were there too so that was fun to see them and say Hi to Ron who was manning the BBQ.
Once I got home I met Duckie, Lois is nursing a little lost duck or gosling back to health. Then I settled in for some work. Now its bed time and I'm not done but at least I'm started and will finish in the morning before seeing three tomorrow, the fun just keeps on rolling.
So good night my dear friends, at this point this blog has been visited over 28,000 times by friends, family and others. Wow.
Love to all
Tim
Saturday, May 19, 2012
She is very nice
This has been a relaxed Sabbath. I got to see my dear friends in Tracy at church, Kallie and Keanna got to go to their Sabbath School programs where Kim and Sylvia did their normal outstanding job of teaching and inspiring.
We lunched at Sonic and it was surprisingly good, Kallie pursued all birdies that came around begging food and we enjoyed her attempts to "touch a bird", she didn't even get close.
This evening Nikki, Steve and girls are camping in a cabin somewhere in the delta, the girls were so excited about the prospect and mom and day were really into it too. I'm so thankful for my precious children and when they are happy it gives me instant happiness too.
This morning I had an email from a new friend I met through Seniors Meet, a web site for us aged ones. We have been emailing back and forth quite a bit and I found her ability to communicate outstanding. So this evening we had dinner at Mimi's in Antioch on Lone Tree Way. I was nervous, mostly about my weight and looks but also about stepping out of my comfort zone, just being alone most of the time. Well she was great, dressed casually, soft spoken and confident and was an excellent dinner companion. No wonder she can communicate well, she has a doctorate in education and is a retired instructor. Her life has been very interesting and she lost her precious husband after many years of a illness that struck and was responsible for his death about a year later. She learned how to manage pic lines and to do many of the things that reality had me doing with Nan. She speaks in glowing terms of her life with her husband but is testing the waters to see if she is ready to move forward. I cannot begin to convey what a good time I had and as minutes passed I realized how young she looks though she was born a month before me in 1948. She loves boating, RV camping, horses, hiking and is a very practical lady.
I hope to see her again and something stirred inside, a nice feeling for a nice lady.
Well on that happy note I'll be singing off, tomorrow I start in Oakley and then move on to Fair Oaks, then back to drop by a gift for Melissa at her shower, then write up the two reports and crash. Life is good, not great but good and great when I get to care for the grandchildren.
We lunched at Sonic and it was surprisingly good, Kallie pursued all birdies that came around begging food and we enjoyed her attempts to "touch a bird", she didn't even get close.
This evening Nikki, Steve and girls are camping in a cabin somewhere in the delta, the girls were so excited about the prospect and mom and day were really into it too. I'm so thankful for my precious children and when they are happy it gives me instant happiness too.
This morning I had an email from a new friend I met through Seniors Meet, a web site for us aged ones. We have been emailing back and forth quite a bit and I found her ability to communicate outstanding. So this evening we had dinner at Mimi's in Antioch on Lone Tree Way. I was nervous, mostly about my weight and looks but also about stepping out of my comfort zone, just being alone most of the time. Well she was great, dressed casually, soft spoken and confident and was an excellent dinner companion. No wonder she can communicate well, she has a doctorate in education and is a retired instructor. Her life has been very interesting and she lost her precious husband after many years of a illness that struck and was responsible for his death about a year later. She learned how to manage pic lines and to do many of the things that reality had me doing with Nan. She speaks in glowing terms of her life with her husband but is testing the waters to see if she is ready to move forward. I cannot begin to convey what a good time I had and as minutes passed I realized how young she looks though she was born a month before me in 1948. She loves boating, RV camping, horses, hiking and is a very practical lady.
I hope to see her again and something stirred inside, a nice feeling for a nice lady.
Well on that happy note I'll be singing off, tomorrow I start in Oakley and then move on to Fair Oaks, then back to drop by a gift for Melissa at her shower, then write up the two reports and crash. Life is good, not great but good and great when I get to care for the grandchildren.
Friday, May 18, 2012
Friday night, God's gentle brake pedal
Dear Family and Friends,
So here we are again, the cycle is ending, the excitement of Monday, the settling in of Wednesday, the stress of Thursday and the wrapping up of Friday is history now.
I worked in today after walking this morning, I've done the laundry over the last two days and am up to date on that, kitchen is pretty clean and tidy, new disposal needs to be installed but just didn't have time to take on a project of that magnitude during the week.
This afternoon two rush appraisals came in, both need to be seen on Sunday and completed by Monday. Monday is promising to be a busy day in the field so Sunday becomes even more important. One is in Oakley and one is in Fair Oaks and there is a BBQ later in the day that I really want to at least look in on, Melissa and Ryan are expecting and there is a baby shower mid afternoon, then a BBQ later in the day. Its very exciting as these are the young people I had the chance to perform a wedding for in Costa Rica, a trip of a lifetime and a wedding spot that is so beautiful, its unforgetable.
This afternoon Keanna and Kallie came by and then went to the park nearby with their mom, it was some sort of celebration by the local church / school where Kallie attends every day in pre school. Weather was perfect the girls had a great time in the rented bounce house and the food was good also. Steve came later and collected the little darlings and I went back to work for awhile.
Now its bed time and I'm so very ready.
Sending love to all,
Tim
PS Sabbath School in the morning for the girls and Pappa.
So here we are again, the cycle is ending, the excitement of Monday, the settling in of Wednesday, the stress of Thursday and the wrapping up of Friday is history now.
I worked in today after walking this morning, I've done the laundry over the last two days and am up to date on that, kitchen is pretty clean and tidy, new disposal needs to be installed but just didn't have time to take on a project of that magnitude during the week.
This afternoon two rush appraisals came in, both need to be seen on Sunday and completed by Monday. Monday is promising to be a busy day in the field so Sunday becomes even more important. One is in Oakley and one is in Fair Oaks and there is a BBQ later in the day that I really want to at least look in on, Melissa and Ryan are expecting and there is a baby shower mid afternoon, then a BBQ later in the day. Its very exciting as these are the young people I had the chance to perform a wedding for in Costa Rica, a trip of a lifetime and a wedding spot that is so beautiful, its unforgetable.
This afternoon Keanna and Kallie came by and then went to the park nearby with their mom, it was some sort of celebration by the local church / school where Kallie attends every day in pre school. Weather was perfect the girls had a great time in the rented bounce house and the food was good also. Steve came later and collected the little darlings and I went back to work for awhile.
Now its bed time and I'm so very ready.
Sending love to all,
Tim
PS Sabbath School in the morning for the girls and Pappa.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Home safe
I'm just home after a very long but good day. I saw places in Oakley, Albany, San Ramon and Livermore. Then I had dinner at Chili's, a very bad mistake. Understaffed and full of patrons tonight it took 2 hours to get a bowl of soup and a plate of pasta. My waitress should find other work, like going protesting or something, really awful. Never got silverware so ate the pasta with a spoon that came with my decaf.
Yesterday our town got hit with a bunch of crazy cops chasing people growing the medicinal marijana and they arrested many people took cars and boats, pretty much made a mess out of a lot of people's lives. you can grow the stuff legally in California with the right permits but the feds are a whole different story. I'm guessing that if you add up the man hours put into this by law enforcement it cost a whole lot more than what they found. I've sort of lost my trust in the police and a lot of public officials over the years. Anyway a bunch of people are in jail because of it with the possible outcome up to life sentences or at least 10 years.
Well since I have to get one more out and its past 10 I think I'll go back to work.
Take care my friends and family,
Tim
Yesterday our town got hit with a bunch of crazy cops chasing people growing the medicinal marijana and they arrested many people took cars and boats, pretty much made a mess out of a lot of people's lives. you can grow the stuff legally in California with the right permits but the feds are a whole different story. I'm guessing that if you add up the man hours put into this by law enforcement it cost a whole lot more than what they found. I've sort of lost my trust in the police and a lot of public officials over the years. Anyway a bunch of people are in jail because of it with the possible outcome up to life sentences or at least 10 years.
Well since I have to get one more out and its past 10 I think I'll go back to work.
Take care my friends and family,
Tim
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Slow day
In terms of accomplishments, well this was a slow one. Just could not wake up really fully all day. Of course I drove to Oakland tonight to shoot 7 photos for which I was paid $90, no traffic either way but I sure saw lots of stopped traffic on the other side while I was going 70 getting there. Once there it took 6 locks to get in and the keys were there this time, thank goodness. You see when I call the agents their english is so poor we can hardly communicate or is it my spanish is so lame that we can't talke, wait, this is America and we used to speak English here. Oh well the job is done and emailed and confirmed.
Keanna came this afternoon and turned a center of a toilet paper roll into the cutest little guy, it was a class assignment and she did it very well. She enjoyed her popcorn and a stop at the bank, then Starbucks and finally CVS where we found a cute little doggie as a reward for her doing well in a school project.
At this point I'm turning into a zombie and going to sleep, good night all, love to every one of you who read and enjoy.
Tim
Keanna came this afternoon and turned a center of a toilet paper roll into the cutest little guy, it was a class assignment and she did it very well. She enjoyed her popcorn and a stop at the bank, then Starbucks and finally CVS where we found a cute little doggie as a reward for her doing well in a school project.
At this point I'm turning into a zombie and going to sleep, good night all, love to every one of you who read and enjoy.
Tim
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Great day
Offsetting all those bad days this has been a good one. This evening we had a BBQ with Ray and Lois. They came over just after 6 and we cleaned the glass table on the back deck, the evening was perfect with a gentle wind coming across the lake, the tree providing shade. We cooked ears of corn in their husks, enjoyed burgers for Ray and Lois and a griller for me. Ray had made a desert which was so good. It was totally enjoyable and was a nice ending to a day of production.
I woke at 6:45 and walked around the lake, then through the shower and a small breakfast. I settled down to deal with some odious conditions, revisions they call them. The fact is that once you start fixing things it always goes faster than you think when you first see the list. So around 11 I finally was throught with the free labor and set to work doing actually money producing work. Steve had a couple that he had written up and I worked to finish those. Then I set up new orders and made appointments.
Later this afternoon the party that stood me up last Friday in San Anselmo called. They had been on vacation and decided to extend longer. They didn't have number so could not reach me. Well what do you do when they are on the phone, act ugly or just move forward. I moved forward and am set to see it next Tuesday. I love driving there and back, so fun.
Tomorrow Keanna comes to visit, already we are coming up on Wednesday. I am continually grateful for the work that keeps coming in but I do get so tired and bored of doing the same thing over and over. Oh well it could be worse, no work, losing everything. I'll take the direction things are going in over that.
So I'm sending out good vibes for all,
Love
tim
I woke at 6:45 and walked around the lake, then through the shower and a small breakfast. I settled down to deal with some odious conditions, revisions they call them. The fact is that once you start fixing things it always goes faster than you think when you first see the list. So around 11 I finally was throught with the free labor and set to work doing actually money producing work. Steve had a couple that he had written up and I worked to finish those. Then I set up new orders and made appointments.
Later this afternoon the party that stood me up last Friday in San Anselmo called. They had been on vacation and decided to extend longer. They didn't have number so could not reach me. Well what do you do when they are on the phone, act ugly or just move forward. I moved forward and am set to see it next Tuesday. I love driving there and back, so fun.
Tomorrow Keanna comes to visit, already we are coming up on Wednesday. I am continually grateful for the work that keeps coming in but I do get so tired and bored of doing the same thing over and over. Oh well it could be worse, no work, losing everything. I'll take the direction things are going in over that.
So I'm sending out good vibes for all,
Love
tim
Monday, May 14, 2012
A Very Long Day!
Its 9:45 and I just got home. The day started with a 3 mile walk around the lake. The morning was beautiful and the walk was good.
Once back, showered and breakfast concluded I set down to do research. It seemed to take forever and time began to slip away.
Finally I hit the road and drove to Napa where using a lock box code I entered a home where every inch of floor was covered with someone's possessions. Finally I finished that one and drove over to another place in hopes a door was open as the code has not yet been given me. Of course they want the report back tomorrow, well its not going to happen.
I left Napa for Oakland where I found a nice 4 plex and reconnected with a nice guy who has decided to give up on the crazies of California and move to Ashland. So I'm producing an appraisal so he can sell to one of his tenants. he wrote me a check on the spot, Nice.
Then it was on to Morgan Hill where I found a ranchette with a newly completed home that was 3400 sf and filled with angles, no sweat, Got it done and then drove to San Jose to see a little house, neat and clean for a private party, again cash on the spot. Nice green cash.
Now I'm home, back hurts, very tired but contented. Today Ray and Lois came to the rescue. In my haste to leave this morning I forgot to depost a large check, one that needed to be in to cover the house payment so I texted and they took care of it for me. That was a huge favor and I appreciate it very much.
So now good night
Love
tim
Once back, showered and breakfast concluded I set down to do research. It seemed to take forever and time began to slip away.
Finally I hit the road and drove to Napa where using a lock box code I entered a home where every inch of floor was covered with someone's possessions. Finally I finished that one and drove over to another place in hopes a door was open as the code has not yet been given me. Of course they want the report back tomorrow, well its not going to happen.
I left Napa for Oakland where I found a nice 4 plex and reconnected with a nice guy who has decided to give up on the crazies of California and move to Ashland. So I'm producing an appraisal so he can sell to one of his tenants. he wrote me a check on the spot, Nice.
Then it was on to Morgan Hill where I found a ranchette with a newly completed home that was 3400 sf and filled with angles, no sweat, Got it done and then drove to San Jose to see a little house, neat and clean for a private party, again cash on the spot. Nice green cash.
Now I'm home, back hurts, very tired but contented. Today Ray and Lois came to the rescue. In my haste to leave this morning I forgot to depost a large check, one that needed to be in to cover the house payment so I texted and they took care of it for me. That was a huge favor and I appreciate it very much.
So now good night
Love
tim
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Another mothers day without the first lady!
It was going pretty well, I had walked my 3 miles and made a healthy breakfast that centered around a whole wheat bagel, whats not to like about that!
I was deep into my appraisal writing when an ding told me a new email had arrived. Nikki had forwarded an access to the photo albums she keeps on the web. Called Snapfish its a place to store photos. Well as I looked for the latest addition I came across the Nan album. I spent the next 30 minutes on this mothers day moving between tears, laughs, memories. It was awful, it was grand. Reminded of what I had for those years and of what I've lost. It was a good experience and puts my life into focus, I must have done something right a few times because I managed to capture the lovely Nan, and we managed to have a couple terrific kids and travel, sing, fight, work, travel some more, cruise, fly, drive, motorhome, boat, back pack and most of all worship, pray, blend our talents into a business. What a great life we had. So thanks Nikki for prompting such a great excursion on this special day.
I've managed to stay on track today and tonight I'm fairly near to being caught up, what a nice experience after the last few days of stress and I tried to get caught up.
So life goes on, I've made contact with a nice lady in Antioch who lost her husband a few years ago and she was his caregiver. We are hoping to catch up with each other at a coffee shop this week. Who knows. I'd have a much better chance if I'd not let the weight go wild. At this point I'm a poor catch for anyone due to the health concerns, not my brilliant personality! Kidding.
Hoping your week goes well. I plan to make mine good.
Love to all.
Tim
I was deep into my appraisal writing when an ding told me a new email had arrived. Nikki had forwarded an access to the photo albums she keeps on the web. Called Snapfish its a place to store photos. Well as I looked for the latest addition I came across the Nan album. I spent the next 30 minutes on this mothers day moving between tears, laughs, memories. It was awful, it was grand. Reminded of what I had for those years and of what I've lost. It was a good experience and puts my life into focus, I must have done something right a few times because I managed to capture the lovely Nan, and we managed to have a couple terrific kids and travel, sing, fight, work, travel some more, cruise, fly, drive, motorhome, boat, back pack and most of all worship, pray, blend our talents into a business. What a great life we had. So thanks Nikki for prompting such a great excursion on this special day.
I've managed to stay on track today and tonight I'm fairly near to being caught up, what a nice experience after the last few days of stress and I tried to get caught up.
So life goes on, I've made contact with a nice lady in Antioch who lost her husband a few years ago and she was his caregiver. We are hoping to catch up with each other at a coffee shop this week. Who knows. I'd have a much better chance if I'd not let the weight go wild. At this point I'm a poor catch for anyone due to the health concerns, not my brilliant personality! Kidding.
Hoping your week goes well. I plan to make mine good.
Love to all.
Tim
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Sabbath with the girls
This morning we drove to SS in Tracy. At first Kallie was the only kiddo in the room but Kim started the program anyway, then Jackie came in and then there were two. Jackie is a little girl less than 2 years old and she likes to explore. Its very exciting as Kallie wants to do her own thing and Jackie is roaming the room but its all good and a very positive experience.
We got to see friends and saw George and Yvonne again at Strings were we had lunch. As we were walking out Kallie and Keanna comments on how much the liked Dr. George. Little people can tell when someone cares, I thought it was nice and I was proud of George for projecting such love to my little people.
Eventually I turned the girls over to their mom as today is picture day and they were headed there for birthday photos.
I came home and fell sound asleep in my work chair as I was reading emails. Of course its nice sitting in front of the AC and I just was tired. Later I stirred and went outside to work on the edger, it finally started but in the process I managed to get a whiff of starter fluid into my right eye, its not been the same since even though I flushed it out a couple times. I checked out the sprinkler system to make sure my tomato plants are getting enough water and knocked down some weeds here and there. After all in about a month Dana and the boys are set to arrive.
This evening Ray and I decided to do a BBQ but by the time we went to Safeway after dark it was too late so we'll do it tomorrow. Nikki shared some tomatoes she picked up somewhere and they are so good, its a nice thing about summer, the tomatoes are worth eating, so good.
Well the garbage disposal has died so I picked up a new one which I will install tomorrow. Fortunately that is something I've done many times over the years so that's how I'll celebrate mothers day. How I used to love the day with Nan. She was a great mom and once again we are robbed of having her here to thank. Part of life died with her that day, its just a fact.
Hope your day tomorrow will be pleasant and that you will get a chance to honor your mom, your wife, your special person.
Love
tim
We got to see friends and saw George and Yvonne again at Strings were we had lunch. As we were walking out Kallie and Keanna comments on how much the liked Dr. George. Little people can tell when someone cares, I thought it was nice and I was proud of George for projecting such love to my little people.
Eventually I turned the girls over to their mom as today is picture day and they were headed there for birthday photos.
I came home and fell sound asleep in my work chair as I was reading emails. Of course its nice sitting in front of the AC and I just was tired. Later I stirred and went outside to work on the edger, it finally started but in the process I managed to get a whiff of starter fluid into my right eye, its not been the same since even though I flushed it out a couple times. I checked out the sprinkler system to make sure my tomato plants are getting enough water and knocked down some weeds here and there. After all in about a month Dana and the boys are set to arrive.
This evening Ray and I decided to do a BBQ but by the time we went to Safeway after dark it was too late so we'll do it tomorrow. Nikki shared some tomatoes she picked up somewhere and they are so good, its a nice thing about summer, the tomatoes are worth eating, so good.
Well the garbage disposal has died so I picked up a new one which I will install tomorrow. Fortunately that is something I've done many times over the years so that's how I'll celebrate mothers day. How I used to love the day with Nan. She was a great mom and once again we are robbed of having her here to thank. Part of life died with her that day, its just a fact.
Hope your day tomorrow will be pleasant and that you will get a chance to honor your mom, your wife, your special person.
Love
tim
Friday, May 11, 2012
Totally exhausted tonight
Dear Family and Friends,
Well its Friday evening and thats a huge blessing! I'm just back from Aladinos, our local pizza place and I've had the honor of dining with the local family. The clown was there who makes such incredible balloon creatures and both Keanna and Kalli were rewarded with great renditions. It was nice to sort of unwind with Nikki and Steve. I confined myself to just two slices and a great salad.
I started this morning at 6, had breakfast of cheerios and a banana, then settled in my work chair to get some things done, next thing I knew it was late and too much time had passed. I had just enough time to quickly do research and hit the road.
My first appointment was in the little town of Rio Vista, that is where Humphry the Whale ventured a few years ago, up a fresh water river and away from the sea. He was finally coaxed back to the ocean but it took a while and Rio Vista had its moment of fame. The agent had just opened the door for me, the house was empty so that one went quickly.
I used Highway 12 which is commonly known as blood alley, in the past its been a very dangerous road and make much more so by the way people raced along getting killed on a regular basis. It is the way that lodi people travel to Pacific Union College up in Angwin and several young people have been hurt or killed using this stretch of road that reaches from Lodi to Fairfield. Now the road is new, widened, the blind spots removed and its a much safer avenue for travel.
I arrived in San Anselmo 30 minutes early and found no one home, so I measured what I could without going through back gates, then left a card and went to shoot the comps. Later I returned to the house and still no one there. So after over a hour of waiting I concluded that I had been stood up and headed back to Oakley for the last one of the day. I arrived at that home over an hour early but by phone the owner had said it was fine. By now it was really warm, about 91 and I moved slowly as I measured. I was glad to get it over with and drove home. I felt really low on energy but when I took a reading of my blood sugar it was 212, not at all what I expected.
Mostly I am just tired, worn out from a week of long hours and short nights. I'm very grateful for having work and especially thankful for Steve's help with writing up reports.
My wish for you is happiness, peace, a chance to chat with family and friends, a moment of real living, that is my wish for me as well. In the morning I'll take the girls to SS in Tracy, always a nice break from my busy routine. I'll also get to see my friends for a few minutes, always a great opportunity.
Now I'm sending love to all,
Tim
Well its Friday evening and thats a huge blessing! I'm just back from Aladinos, our local pizza place and I've had the honor of dining with the local family. The clown was there who makes such incredible balloon creatures and both Keanna and Kalli were rewarded with great renditions. It was nice to sort of unwind with Nikki and Steve. I confined myself to just two slices and a great salad.
I started this morning at 6, had breakfast of cheerios and a banana, then settled in my work chair to get some things done, next thing I knew it was late and too much time had passed. I had just enough time to quickly do research and hit the road.
My first appointment was in the little town of Rio Vista, that is where Humphry the Whale ventured a few years ago, up a fresh water river and away from the sea. He was finally coaxed back to the ocean but it took a while and Rio Vista had its moment of fame. The agent had just opened the door for me, the house was empty so that one went quickly.
I used Highway 12 which is commonly known as blood alley, in the past its been a very dangerous road and make much more so by the way people raced along getting killed on a regular basis. It is the way that lodi people travel to Pacific Union College up in Angwin and several young people have been hurt or killed using this stretch of road that reaches from Lodi to Fairfield. Now the road is new, widened, the blind spots removed and its a much safer avenue for travel.
I arrived in San Anselmo 30 minutes early and found no one home, so I measured what I could without going through back gates, then left a card and went to shoot the comps. Later I returned to the house and still no one there. So after over a hour of waiting I concluded that I had been stood up and headed back to Oakley for the last one of the day. I arrived at that home over an hour early but by phone the owner had said it was fine. By now it was really warm, about 91 and I moved slowly as I measured. I was glad to get it over with and drove home. I felt really low on energy but when I took a reading of my blood sugar it was 212, not at all what I expected.
Mostly I am just tired, worn out from a week of long hours and short nights. I'm very grateful for having work and especially thankful for Steve's help with writing up reports.
My wish for you is happiness, peace, a chance to chat with family and friends, a moment of real living, that is my wish for me as well. In the morning I'll take the girls to SS in Tracy, always a nice break from my busy routine. I'll also get to see my friends for a few minutes, always a great opportunity.
Now I'm sending love to all,
Tim
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Productive day
So now its bedtime and I'm so ready. Today has been a day to stick close to the office and crank out the work. There was lunch with Steve and Subway tonight but other than that it was sit and work.
I am very fortunate to have a comfortable office with a wall AC that keeps things cool, both me and the computers. Of course there were system hangups and wasted moments getting things working right again but mostly its just been a good day.
Tomorrow I'm in Rio Vista at 9, then on to San Anselmo for a noon appointment, then race back to pick up Keanna from class and then drive her to a hike in the warm Brentwood afternoon. Then once she is secure its to Oakley to see the last one of the week. Sabbath could not come soon enough after this stress fulled week.
Well good night all,
love
tim
I am very fortunate to have a comfortable office with a wall AC that keeps things cool, both me and the computers. Of course there were system hangups and wasted moments getting things working right again but mostly its just been a good day.
Tomorrow I'm in Rio Vista at 9, then on to San Anselmo for a noon appointment, then race back to pick up Keanna from class and then drive her to a hike in the warm Brentwood afternoon. Then once she is secure its to Oakley to see the last one of the week. Sabbath could not come soon enough after this stress fulled week.
Well good night all,
love
tim
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Is this all there is?
The best moments of the day arrived at my car at 12:50 when Keanna opened the door and climbed in. She was sad, had been searching for her ipod which is missing. We decided to go grocery shopping at Safeway and with that accomplished we picked up some lunch for her at McDonalds.
I worked and she enjoyed her afternoon watching some programs, creating a birthday card for her friend Summer and doing some computer games. Once Nikki arrived with Kallie we had a happy moment before they were gone.
Then it was time to look at Livermore comps and travel back to Livermore for a 6 pm appointment. That went smoothly and with traffic gone for the day the trip back was easy. Now I'm must back from picking up files on Steve and Nikki's front porch, now I'll put the photos in and ship the reports out to the lenders. They will be happy to get them.
Tomorrow I'm going no where, just cranking out reports and I have many to get done. New orders are arriving including a desk review request that arrived a few minutes ago. I'm thinking of turning it down. Its a 98 acre ranch in Livermore and the comps are up to 25 miles distant. Adjustments are huge and I just don't think I want to take it on, the risk is just too high. One adjustment was for a million dollars for a second unit on a property, a guest unit for a million dollars. I don't think so.
Now its bed time and I intend to be in bed on time tonight. The allergies got so bad that I picked up some allergy medicine and I've had a great afternoon with the sneezing and coughing nearly stopped, a nice relief time.
I'm feeling sort of over the edge lately, there is no relief, no letup, just more and more work with deadlines that are impossible to meet. When they give you 8 orders and all have the same due date its not humanly possible to get them all done and back at the same time. There has to be solutions and I know God knows the answers.
Sending love to all
Tim
I worked and she enjoyed her afternoon watching some programs, creating a birthday card for her friend Summer and doing some computer games. Once Nikki arrived with Kallie we had a happy moment before they were gone.
Then it was time to look at Livermore comps and travel back to Livermore for a 6 pm appointment. That went smoothly and with traffic gone for the day the trip back was easy. Now I'm must back from picking up files on Steve and Nikki's front porch, now I'll put the photos in and ship the reports out to the lenders. They will be happy to get them.
Tomorrow I'm going no where, just cranking out reports and I have many to get done. New orders are arriving including a desk review request that arrived a few minutes ago. I'm thinking of turning it down. Its a 98 acre ranch in Livermore and the comps are up to 25 miles distant. Adjustments are huge and I just don't think I want to take it on, the risk is just too high. One adjustment was for a million dollars for a second unit on a property, a guest unit for a million dollars. I don't think so.
Now its bed time and I intend to be in bed on time tonight. The allergies got so bad that I picked up some allergy medicine and I've had a great afternoon with the sneezing and coughing nearly stopped, a nice relief time.
I'm feeling sort of over the edge lately, there is no relief, no letup, just more and more work with deadlines that are impossible to meet. When they give you 8 orders and all have the same due date its not humanly possible to get them all done and back at the same time. There has to be solutions and I know God knows the answers.
Sending love to all
Tim
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Its hot out there
We are getting hit with a bit of summer and its early. My little bug displayed over 90 all day today even over in Fremont and Union City. Tracy was warm also but my time out in the heat is relatively short as measuring around regular homes involves less than 15 minutes usually and I move from shade to shade as I'm writing down the numbers. Still I prefer not to have it so hot. Oh well I could be in Houston where they have had it over 90 for days. Reports say Houston is growing but having been there I'm not sure why, miserable weather but wonderful people.
I had a chance to stop in and chat with Becky Lanza. Now if you happen to know the Tracy SDA church family then you know that Becky and Dick are pillars, they are the go to people to make things happen and recently while they were at their cabin in the mountains above Livermore Becky slipped on wet grass and went down breaking both bones in her leg in the process. The cabin is located way out away from civilization so Dick had to help her with their little 4 wheel vehicle up the hill and to the car. Then they had to drive to find help. They ended up in a Pleasanton hospital where surgeons put her let back together with a rod and pins.
So it was fun to visit a bit and they showed me movies and stills of their little cabin which they have improved so much since they started going there, amazing really, no electrical service, no running water yet they have it working great and enjoy it very much.
Once I pulled myself away I came on home to begin working, a usual days has some writing of new work and some dealing with complaints from clients about wording or typos and that work is usually irritating but part of the total process. It certainly keeps one humble as one gets his work torn apart by people half your age and with much less experience. You just have to keep still, thank them for bugging you and move ahead.
Today Jason and family are flying home. I know that is not a fun experience with little Mia, the altitude can get to the ears and just holding still for so long can be boring for a little one. I'm so glad they have had a chance to relax a bit before the next chapter in their lives.
Well for me its back to work. Right now I'm working on one in Sacramento, a sale of a nice home for a steal of a price, happens all the time.
Sending love to all,
Tim
I had a chance to stop in and chat with Becky Lanza. Now if you happen to know the Tracy SDA church family then you know that Becky and Dick are pillars, they are the go to people to make things happen and recently while they were at their cabin in the mountains above Livermore Becky slipped on wet grass and went down breaking both bones in her leg in the process. The cabin is located way out away from civilization so Dick had to help her with their little 4 wheel vehicle up the hill and to the car. Then they had to drive to find help. They ended up in a Pleasanton hospital where surgeons put her let back together with a rod and pins.
So it was fun to visit a bit and they showed me movies and stills of their little cabin which they have improved so much since they started going there, amazing really, no electrical service, no running water yet they have it working great and enjoy it very much.
Once I pulled myself away I came on home to begin working, a usual days has some writing of new work and some dealing with complaints from clients about wording or typos and that work is usually irritating but part of the total process. It certainly keeps one humble as one gets his work torn apart by people half your age and with much less experience. You just have to keep still, thank them for bugging you and move ahead.
Today Jason and family are flying home. I know that is not a fun experience with little Mia, the altitude can get to the ears and just holding still for so long can be boring for a little one. I'm so glad they have had a chance to relax a bit before the next chapter in their lives.
Well for me its back to work. Right now I'm working on one in Sacramento, a sale of a nice home for a steal of a price, happens all the time.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Monday, May 7, 2012
Back to work
Dear Family and Friends,
Well this will be short, I'm suddenly so sleepy that I've fallen asleep in my work chair. I'd just come in from planting some tomato plants that Steve and the girls grew from seeds, they are beautiful plants and it was time to get them into the ground.
I had a rough night last night, could not sleep and finally came down and worked for a couple hours in the middle of the night. The moon was so stunning, looked huge and bright. This morning I woke at 6, told myself I could get 30 more minutes of sleep, set the alarm for 6:30 and fell back into bed. It was so amazing, the next thing I felt was the alarm going off. The 30 minutes passed like it was a second.
I drove to Orinda in the early morning traffic, wow are people ever aggressive at that time of the day, you'd better bet awake and out of the fast lane or you'll have tracks down your back. Once Orinda was done I headed home, picked up an extension cord from a former motor home renter and then worked the rest of the afternoon. I'm still behind but Steve's help was great and allowed a couple more to go out today. What a guy!
So late this evening I headed out, carried the potting soil and the new resin barrel like containers, drilled holes in the bottom of them so they could drain and planted the tomato plants. Felt good to feel the earth, bend and work the shovel but when I came in I just went to sleep. Deep sleep.
So I'm off again in the morning to Fremont, then Union City and finally to Tracy before coming back to crank some more stuff out the door. I'm really getting tired of having no life, just working but not sure how to break out and do something else when so much work is staring me in the face. I love work and I love working but I'm feeling caged up by endless work and no social exchange. That is why I enjoyed being with the family last weekend, its was a nice change.
So now I'm giving it up for the day. Love to all
Tim
Well this will be short, I'm suddenly so sleepy that I've fallen asleep in my work chair. I'd just come in from planting some tomato plants that Steve and the girls grew from seeds, they are beautiful plants and it was time to get them into the ground.
I had a rough night last night, could not sleep and finally came down and worked for a couple hours in the middle of the night. The moon was so stunning, looked huge and bright. This morning I woke at 6, told myself I could get 30 more minutes of sleep, set the alarm for 6:30 and fell back into bed. It was so amazing, the next thing I felt was the alarm going off. The 30 minutes passed like it was a second.
I drove to Orinda in the early morning traffic, wow are people ever aggressive at that time of the day, you'd better bet awake and out of the fast lane or you'll have tracks down your back. Once Orinda was done I headed home, picked up an extension cord from a former motor home renter and then worked the rest of the afternoon. I'm still behind but Steve's help was great and allowed a couple more to go out today. What a guy!
So late this evening I headed out, carried the potting soil and the new resin barrel like containers, drilled holes in the bottom of them so they could drain and planted the tomato plants. Felt good to feel the earth, bend and work the shovel but when I came in I just went to sleep. Deep sleep.
So I'm off again in the morning to Fremont, then Union City and finally to Tracy before coming back to crank some more stuff out the door. I'm really getting tired of having no life, just working but not sure how to break out and do something else when so much work is staring me in the face. I love work and I love working but I'm feeling caged up by endless work and no social exchange. That is why I enjoyed being with the family last weekend, its was a nice change.
So now I'm giving it up for the day. Love to all
Tim
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Beautiful day with lots of scenery
Dear Family and Friends,
Well finally this morning good sense kicked in and the tredmill got used. It took the longest time to get the heart rate up but finally it went up to 165 at one point and eventually down to the 120s which is about right. The morning was perfect with chilly breezes blowing in from the lake and some good preaching on the bedroom TV.
I left for Santa Rosa a bit late, about 10:45 but had a hidden key so arriving at a certain time was not really mandated. The home was older but really clean and nice and the comps were all nearby. On the way out I found a Burger King and had a vege burger, this time without mayo and it tasted just about as good and I know I saved a bunch of fat in the process.
The road from Santa Rosa to Saratoga was long, down 101 and then to 580, across a beautiful bridge and onto 80 with its constant traffic, then 580 again down to Hayward, then 238 over to 880 and all the way to Saratoga. I called ahead and the owner was watching soccer so didn't care when I arrived.
The home was great, mature trees everywhere and such a nice area to live. He leaves for Europe tomorrow so that is why I had to get to the property today.
On the way home I hit up Taco Bell and was hearing from Jason who is doing a night dive in Hawaii this evening. He was jazzed but I'll feel better once I know he is back on the boat after the dive. Once a parent always a parent.
So now I'm off to bed, I'm tired and pretty glad to be home safe once again. The little bug just worked perfectly with no complaints. Now I have a mound of work to get written up and out and beginning at 9 am in Orinda tomorrow the day really begins once again.
Sending my best to each of you as you begin your new week. For some of you its mending from sore muscles, others are dealing with alergies while others are battling weight, we all have our challenges don't we.
Love to all,
Tim
Well finally this morning good sense kicked in and the tredmill got used. It took the longest time to get the heart rate up but finally it went up to 165 at one point and eventually down to the 120s which is about right. The morning was perfect with chilly breezes blowing in from the lake and some good preaching on the bedroom TV.
I left for Santa Rosa a bit late, about 10:45 but had a hidden key so arriving at a certain time was not really mandated. The home was older but really clean and nice and the comps were all nearby. On the way out I found a Burger King and had a vege burger, this time without mayo and it tasted just about as good and I know I saved a bunch of fat in the process.
The road from Santa Rosa to Saratoga was long, down 101 and then to 580, across a beautiful bridge and onto 80 with its constant traffic, then 580 again down to Hayward, then 238 over to 880 and all the way to Saratoga. I called ahead and the owner was watching soccer so didn't care when I arrived.
The home was great, mature trees everywhere and such a nice area to live. He leaves for Europe tomorrow so that is why I had to get to the property today.
On the way home I hit up Taco Bell and was hearing from Jason who is doing a night dive in Hawaii this evening. He was jazzed but I'll feel better once I know he is back on the boat after the dive. Once a parent always a parent.
So now I'm off to bed, I'm tired and pretty glad to be home safe once again. The little bug just worked perfectly with no complaints. Now I have a mound of work to get written up and out and beginning at 9 am in Orinda tomorrow the day really begins once again.
Sending my best to each of you as you begin your new week. For some of you its mending from sore muscles, others are dealing with alergies while others are battling weight, we all have our challenges don't we.
Love to all,
Tim
Saturday, May 5, 2012
A day full of family!
Dear Family and Friends,
This morning I picked up a very cute little Kallie and we drove to Sabbath School where Kallie enjoyed learning more about Noah and the Ark along with three other little girls.
Her choice for lunch was McDonalds so we went there next and this time she asked for cookies along with her happy meal. I had salad and we enjoyed lunch, then she played getting the bottom of her soxs totally black from the floors in the play structure, whoops.
At home I traded Kallie in for Keanna and we drove to the local McDonalds where she had lunch and we drove home where I changed my cold morning sweater for a cooler one. Then I went back to the shopping center to drop in a check that had arrived in the mail and visit Starbucks. While there in contact with Nikki we all decided to head to Stockton for dinner and to get Keanna her last birthday present, a colorful cover for her ipod. We ended up with two and had a very nice dinner at Spaghetti Factory. Now I'm home preparing for bed.
How nice to spend real time with the girls, not that they always get along but mostly they are just terrific, bright, quick witted and very interesting. Kallie is totally into being able to write and spell as well as count up as far as she can remember. Her letters are pretty good now. Keanna is into beating Angry Birds and other games. She was happy to be able to hook up on Wifi at Starbucks today.
Tomorrow I have another road trip, first I stop in Santa Rosa at 12:30 and once I'm through there I head to Saratoga. Like Nikki said the only thing those two cities have in common is that they begin with S. They are miles apart but I'll see some beautiful country and probably go across the Golden Gate Bridge in the process. How fun.
Sending love to all,
Tim
This morning I picked up a very cute little Kallie and we drove to Sabbath School where Kallie enjoyed learning more about Noah and the Ark along with three other little girls.
Her choice for lunch was McDonalds so we went there next and this time she asked for cookies along with her happy meal. I had salad and we enjoyed lunch, then she played getting the bottom of her soxs totally black from the floors in the play structure, whoops.
At home I traded Kallie in for Keanna and we drove to the local McDonalds where she had lunch and we drove home where I changed my cold morning sweater for a cooler one. Then I went back to the shopping center to drop in a check that had arrived in the mail and visit Starbucks. While there in contact with Nikki we all decided to head to Stockton for dinner and to get Keanna her last birthday present, a colorful cover for her ipod. We ended up with two and had a very nice dinner at Spaghetti Factory. Now I'm home preparing for bed.
How nice to spend real time with the girls, not that they always get along but mostly they are just terrific, bright, quick witted and very interesting. Kallie is totally into being able to write and spell as well as count up as far as she can remember. Her letters are pretty good now. Keanna is into beating Angry Birds and other games. She was happy to be able to hook up on Wifi at Starbucks today.
Tomorrow I have another road trip, first I stop in Santa Rosa at 12:30 and once I'm through there I head to Saratoga. Like Nikki said the only thing those two cities have in common is that they begin with S. They are miles apart but I'll see some beautiful country and probably go across the Golden Gate Bridge in the process. How fun.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Friday, May 4, 2012
Dining out at the Hilton, no CostCo!
I've been having fun texting and chatting with Jason and he and the family enjoy some down time in Kona. This morning I thought I understood that they were going to lunch by the lagoon at the wonderful Hilton and I was remembering how much I love that place, yummy garden burgers while watching people swim with the dolphins or paddle on the huge lagoon which is between the beach and the back of the Hilton with its multi story columns and panoramic views. This is the same Hilton where you can go to your room by gondola on a canal or by train or actually walk. Its a great destination and so fun to visit.
Later Jason texted to say they had dined at Costco and were on their way back to the unit for a nap. They are having a great time and I'm so very happy for them. They face some challenging times ahead as they must move, locate a new place to live, figure out the commute to SF every day for Jason, Jo needs to settle into her new job, lots of changes taking place so a little R&R is a great idea.
I rolled out, actually stagger would be more correct as it takes a minute for my head to adjust to movement. After a quick shower I came down and started working. Until a few minutes ago I've worked all day. First I did research and set up files, then left for Stockton to see a place, shot comps for the one I did not make it to the other night and then drove home. Before I left Steve had come by with the dogs and they had a great time swimming and chasing the tennis balls. In fact they were very reluctant to get back in the car and go home. Steve is helping by writing up a couple today, its a huge boost when he helps.
Once I rolled in I went to work and wrote up two this afternoon, one was the sale in Stockton and one was a sale in the hills of Oakland. Then I started work on one for Mantra but as the day progressed I decided to take a vacation. Heading outside I started up the edger and trimmed up the front yard, then pulled the faithful mower out and knocked down two weeks worth of grass, it looks so much better now. Then I attached the blower to the edger motor and blew the bits and pieces into the street, actually I just like to use that machine, so fun.
During the day while I worked I let the washer and dryer do a load too. Multi tasking makes great sense. This evening Nikki dropped in, life is so great when you get to talk to your son in Hawaii and see your daughter in the same day. She is enjoying her new job very much and the lack of a fight with traffic every day is very special.
She told me this evening to save the first weekend in June, its Kallie's first dance recital. Bummer, that is the church campout weekend and that makes me very sad. How I hate to miss when the kiddos do something special.
I think I have them for SS in the morning which will be great. Tracy SDA is such a special place.
Love to all and enjoy your Sabbath, your weekend, your chance to live life with those you love and adore.
Tim
Later Jason texted to say they had dined at Costco and were on their way back to the unit for a nap. They are having a great time and I'm so very happy for them. They face some challenging times ahead as they must move, locate a new place to live, figure out the commute to SF every day for Jason, Jo needs to settle into her new job, lots of changes taking place so a little R&R is a great idea.
I rolled out, actually stagger would be more correct as it takes a minute for my head to adjust to movement. After a quick shower I came down and started working. Until a few minutes ago I've worked all day. First I did research and set up files, then left for Stockton to see a place, shot comps for the one I did not make it to the other night and then drove home. Before I left Steve had come by with the dogs and they had a great time swimming and chasing the tennis balls. In fact they were very reluctant to get back in the car and go home. Steve is helping by writing up a couple today, its a huge boost when he helps.
Once I rolled in I went to work and wrote up two this afternoon, one was the sale in Stockton and one was a sale in the hills of Oakland. Then I started work on one for Mantra but as the day progressed I decided to take a vacation. Heading outside I started up the edger and trimmed up the front yard, then pulled the faithful mower out and knocked down two weeks worth of grass, it looks so much better now. Then I attached the blower to the edger motor and blew the bits and pieces into the street, actually I just like to use that machine, so fun.
During the day while I worked I let the washer and dryer do a load too. Multi tasking makes great sense. This evening Nikki dropped in, life is so great when you get to talk to your son in Hawaii and see your daughter in the same day. She is enjoying her new job very much and the lack of a fight with traffic every day is very special.
She told me this evening to save the first weekend in June, its Kallie's first dance recital. Bummer, that is the church campout weekend and that makes me very sad. How I hate to miss when the kiddos do something special.
I think I have them for SS in the morning which will be great. Tracy SDA is such a special place.
Love to all and enjoy your Sabbath, your weekend, your chance to live life with those you love and adore.
Tim
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Contrasts
Good evening,
So today I'm slugging through the rain, seeing 5 properties, San Pablo, Richmond, Vallejo, Concord and Bethel Island and I'm getting thoughtful texts from Jason and Jo who are roughing it in Kona. Now that is contrast. Of course there was last December when I was roughing it in Kona and they were in still working at MBA in the dead of winter. So fair is fair I guess.
Actually considering what they are facing in the future, Jason commuting to SF to law school and Jo teaching every day, they will have some very nice memories to keep them going.
My morning started at 5:30 when I could not stay in bed any longer. My body knew the day ahead and urged me to get up. After a hot shower and good breakfast I waded through a couple hours of research and left. While driving through Antioch I looked over to see that my supply of inspection sheets was down to one sheet and I had five houses to see. Bummer, already running on the edges of late I left the freeway for Staples and a copier, then the diabetes nurse from Kaiser called to say, where was I, I was supposed to be in her office, well I had no record of it so I was sort of read the right act while I needed to have the copies made, I felt the stress rising. Finally I got off the phone after being told I needed to decide what was more important, work or diabetes, great choice there! .65 cents later I had my copies and rejoined the masses on the freeway. I arrived about 30 minutes late but had no firm appointment. The house was crawling with workmen finishing up the newly constructed home. I quickly did my work and then after shooting the comps drove to Richmond where I found a two story combo house, some new parts, some old parts and a water heater stuffed in the closet sitting directly on the floor, not elevated like it is supposed to be.
I caught Taco Bell and then drove to Vallejo for an on time arrival, that one went great, lovely people and a very cute house. Then to Starbucks to be overcharged for a peppermint mocha no fat, none sugar drink.
In Concord I found an original Eichler home, its a special kind of home known for radiant heat in the floor, an atrium in the middle of the house and a nearly level roof. It was like a step back in time to the 50s. Once I was finished there the next stop was Bethel Island which is always an interesting stop. I found a three story high building of which only the top level is level living area, the rest was done after the county finalized the home so I can give it nothing but storage value. The home looked OK, thigh high weeds everywhere and inside the carpets looked awful, stained and filthy, the pergo floors sort of creepy. I finally managed to get it measured and then I was on the road again.
After a stop at Subway for a 6 inch vege sandwich I finally made it home. I'm back on the road in the morning to Stockton at 10 and then I think it will be back to the office to generate some reports.
Life is pretty exciting and tonight I'm very tired. Just took a break to enjoy, is that really possible, to enjoy an episode of Revenge, that show is intense but so interesting. Now I'm ready to push the slumber button.
I'm sending love to all, thanks for being my family, my friends and a special shout out to Becky Lanza who managed to break both bones recently. I was so sorry to hear about her misfortune. She is a great lady who I have great respect for.
Love
Tim
So today I'm slugging through the rain, seeing 5 properties, San Pablo, Richmond, Vallejo, Concord and Bethel Island and I'm getting thoughtful texts from Jason and Jo who are roughing it in Kona. Now that is contrast. Of course there was last December when I was roughing it in Kona and they were in still working at MBA in the dead of winter. So fair is fair I guess.
Actually considering what they are facing in the future, Jason commuting to SF to law school and Jo teaching every day, they will have some very nice memories to keep them going.
My morning started at 5:30 when I could not stay in bed any longer. My body knew the day ahead and urged me to get up. After a hot shower and good breakfast I waded through a couple hours of research and left. While driving through Antioch I looked over to see that my supply of inspection sheets was down to one sheet and I had five houses to see. Bummer, already running on the edges of late I left the freeway for Staples and a copier, then the diabetes nurse from Kaiser called to say, where was I, I was supposed to be in her office, well I had no record of it so I was sort of read the right act while I needed to have the copies made, I felt the stress rising. Finally I got off the phone after being told I needed to decide what was more important, work or diabetes, great choice there! .65 cents later I had my copies and rejoined the masses on the freeway. I arrived about 30 minutes late but had no firm appointment. The house was crawling with workmen finishing up the newly constructed home. I quickly did my work and then after shooting the comps drove to Richmond where I found a two story combo house, some new parts, some old parts and a water heater stuffed in the closet sitting directly on the floor, not elevated like it is supposed to be.
I caught Taco Bell and then drove to Vallejo for an on time arrival, that one went great, lovely people and a very cute house. Then to Starbucks to be overcharged for a peppermint mocha no fat, none sugar drink.
In Concord I found an original Eichler home, its a special kind of home known for radiant heat in the floor, an atrium in the middle of the house and a nearly level roof. It was like a step back in time to the 50s. Once I was finished there the next stop was Bethel Island which is always an interesting stop. I found a three story high building of which only the top level is level living area, the rest was done after the county finalized the home so I can give it nothing but storage value. The home looked OK, thigh high weeds everywhere and inside the carpets looked awful, stained and filthy, the pergo floors sort of creepy. I finally managed to get it measured and then I was on the road again.
After a stop at Subway for a 6 inch vege sandwich I finally made it home. I'm back on the road in the morning to Stockton at 10 and then I think it will be back to the office to generate some reports.
Life is pretty exciting and tonight I'm very tired. Just took a break to enjoy, is that really possible, to enjoy an episode of Revenge, that show is intense but so interesting. Now I'm ready to push the slumber button.
I'm sending love to all, thanks for being my family, my friends and a special shout out to Becky Lanza who managed to break both bones recently. I was so sorry to hear about her misfortune. She is a great lady who I have great respect for.
Love
Tim
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Hi
Dead tired, satisfied, many more orders today, buried but fairly organized.
Fun moments were when Keanna came to visit and practiced her speech about her hero, her sister Kallie, very cute.
Saw two this evening, ran out of light, life is good.
Love to all
Tim
Fun moments were when Keanna came to visit and practiced her speech about her hero, her sister Kallie, very cute.
Saw two this evening, ran out of light, life is good.
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
I prayed for work!
Good evening family and friends,
Steve came to my rescue this morning and picked me up at Road Runner RV where I dropped the RV off to have its repair work done. They are going to do a lot of little things that are needed to make the motorhome work better and the major repairs caused by the renter.
Then I came home and started to set up orders. Eventually I did research and drove to Oakland to a nice older neighorhood up the hill just below Freeway 580. The house was old but had really been nicely updated. Just as I left the person who ordered the rush appraisal I had just seen called to tell me the client refused to pay the $400 rush fee so i could have until Friday to get it done, well I had dropped everything because they were willing to pay the fee and wanted it by Wednesday am. Well at that point what do you do, throw a fit, won't help so I let the guy off the hook and agreed to $350. Then he called back with another appraisal and would have given me even more had I not been totally slammed with work right now. He had 10 to find homes for.
During the afternoon 2 more orders came in so my board is totally filled with orders now. One order came in yesterday that said it had to be seen by today as the people were leaving tomorrow. So on the way back from Oakland I stopped in Dublin and did that one, a little condo, nice guy, well well.
Then I stopped at CostCo for cat food, $135 dollars later I left to try to get everything into the bug. I did but it was pretty tight.
So I finally managed to get home about 7 after fighting traffic on Vasco Road. Now I have a tough one that has been eluding completion emailed to the lender. Its bedtime and life is pretty good. Sure would like to have a friend, I'd settle for one without benefits!! But friends of that kind take time and energy which I seem to have little extra right now. I'm told when I least expect it someone will come into my life, well I least expect it right now.
Sending love to all, my heart goes out to Jason and Jo, they have to leave in the morning for Kona for a week, poor dears, I hope they can manage!
Love
tim
Steve came to my rescue this morning and picked me up at Road Runner RV where I dropped the RV off to have its repair work done. They are going to do a lot of little things that are needed to make the motorhome work better and the major repairs caused by the renter.
Then I came home and started to set up orders. Eventually I did research and drove to Oakland to a nice older neighorhood up the hill just below Freeway 580. The house was old but had really been nicely updated. Just as I left the person who ordered the rush appraisal I had just seen called to tell me the client refused to pay the $400 rush fee so i could have until Friday to get it done, well I had dropped everything because they were willing to pay the fee and wanted it by Wednesday am. Well at that point what do you do, throw a fit, won't help so I let the guy off the hook and agreed to $350. Then he called back with another appraisal and would have given me even more had I not been totally slammed with work right now. He had 10 to find homes for.
During the afternoon 2 more orders came in so my board is totally filled with orders now. One order came in yesterday that said it had to be seen by today as the people were leaving tomorrow. So on the way back from Oakland I stopped in Dublin and did that one, a little condo, nice guy, well well.
Then I stopped at CostCo for cat food, $135 dollars later I left to try to get everything into the bug. I did but it was pretty tight.
So I finally managed to get home about 7 after fighting traffic on Vasco Road. Now I have a tough one that has been eluding completion emailed to the lender. Its bedtime and life is pretty good. Sure would like to have a friend, I'd settle for one without benefits!! But friends of that kind take time and energy which I seem to have little extra right now. I'm told when I least expect it someone will come into my life, well I least expect it right now.
Sending love to all, my heart goes out to Jason and Jo, they have to leave in the morning for Kona for a week, poor dears, I hope they can manage!
Love
tim
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