Some days are just more exciting than other days. Today I just worked, no social contact and it is boring. But work has to be done too. I've driven in so much rain today, the car better be clean. It was even raining when I filled the tank with diesel. No fun but I'm home now working up stuff in a warm office and that is better. I keep a warm drink nearby and a few minutes ago I went for a griller, just had to go to the kitchen. I do a griller for 1 minute in the microwave, then put on a single slice of bread with avocado and tomato slices. I can eat it fast and it really fills me up.
This morning was a first for me. That BMR index, perhaps I'm saying it wrong, its the ratio of fat to muscle in ones body. Well mine used to run about 40 most of the time, this morning I broke out of the 30s and am 29. Now is that good news or what. So very happy about that and now I'm in the 180s weight wise so that part is good too.
Well its back to work for me now, this morning I hopped up and walked the 3.2 miles with Pooka, then off to San Lorenzo, about a 1 hour drive, I found a Starbucks because I get bathroom calls often with all the water I drink. Then back on the road to pick up a check for an appraisal, then discover that I have another check at the house so both are safely in the bank now. This the time of the month when auto payments come out of the account and it needs cash.
My friend has taught me a lot about money and making sure none gets wasted. I've learned a lot that will effect my life as long as I live. Very wise woman.
Well I hope you are dry and safe tonight,
Love to all
Tim
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Ready for a new week, a new month
Good evening family and friends,
Tonight as I write my family is spread all over the world. Jo and the kids are in Malaysia which is really half the way around the world, Jason is in San Jose, Steve and Nikki and family are here in Discovery Bay. What an age we live in.
I've been seeing someone who is here from China so I'm learning a lot about different foods, customs, clothes, colors, flowers and even language. What fun it has been to try to communicate clearly but sometimes it just does not work out.
Today has been a write up reports day in the office plus a bit of socializing as well. It was surprisingly cold in Walnut Creek this evening and I was in shorts and a t shirt. Now that 37 pounds are gone I tend to feel the cold a bit more than before. I was 189.5 this morning and being in the 180s now is very exciting for me personally and for my family.
I'm asking for your prayers this evening that God will guide me and touch lives with His magic touch. Life can get very exciting and its easy to make all our own choices without consulting with our Maker. I know God loves us all and can see ahead, I know that we can trust His guidance and leading, I know that He wants us to be happy and within His will. I want all of that to happen in my life and in the lives of those close to me.
Tonight I send my love to all,
Tim
Tonight as I write my family is spread all over the world. Jo and the kids are in Malaysia which is really half the way around the world, Jason is in San Jose, Steve and Nikki and family are here in Discovery Bay. What an age we live in.
I've been seeing someone who is here from China so I'm learning a lot about different foods, customs, clothes, colors, flowers and even language. What fun it has been to try to communicate clearly but sometimes it just does not work out.
Today has been a write up reports day in the office plus a bit of socializing as well. It was surprisingly cold in Walnut Creek this evening and I was in shorts and a t shirt. Now that 37 pounds are gone I tend to feel the cold a bit more than before. I was 189.5 this morning and being in the 180s now is very exciting for me personally and for my family.
I'm asking for your prayers this evening that God will guide me and touch lives with His magic touch. Life can get very exciting and its easy to make all our own choices without consulting with our Maker. I know God loves us all and can see ahead, I know that we can trust His guidance and leading, I know that He wants us to be happy and within His will. I want all of that to happen in my life and in the lives of those close to me.
Tonight I send my love to all,
Tim
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Rainy winter day, perfect
So here's to another very good day.
Did the walk quickly this morning, picked up Keanna and a friend, I did church, they did Sabbath School. Then we went to Olive Garden and back home. I was able to spend the afternoon with my friend and it just seems every time we have time like this its better. So yes it was a very good day for sure.
When I got home I built a little fire, sort of chilly but I see its gone now. Wish I could see the fire from the office but not possible.
I'm in another of those time when waiting for appraisals to get paid for is hard. I really need the money now but of course it will come when it comes and I'll need it then too. Just made the first payment on the new IRS agreement that I'm so pleased with, felt good to make it and have the first of many paid in. Its so easy now, just log into the website called EFTPS and I have a pin and a code and they pull it right out of the bank locally.
Well hoping all of you had a good day today, we need the rain so badly that I don't think anyone is complaining at all. Walnut Creek felt so fresh after the rain, the streets are nice there and the plants and trees are already in bloom everywhere.
Love to all
Tim
Did the walk quickly this morning, picked up Keanna and a friend, I did church, they did Sabbath School. Then we went to Olive Garden and back home. I was able to spend the afternoon with my friend and it just seems every time we have time like this its better. So yes it was a very good day for sure.
When I got home I built a little fire, sort of chilly but I see its gone now. Wish I could see the fire from the office but not possible.
I'm in another of those time when waiting for appraisals to get paid for is hard. I really need the money now but of course it will come when it comes and I'll need it then too. Just made the first payment on the new IRS agreement that I'm so pleased with, felt good to make it and have the first of many paid in. Its so easy now, just log into the website called EFTPS and I have a pin and a code and they pull it right out of the bank locally.
Well hoping all of you had a good day today, we need the rain so badly that I don't think anyone is complaining at all. Walnut Creek felt so fresh after the rain, the streets are nice there and the plants and trees are already in bloom everywhere.
Love to all
Tim
Friday, March 28, 2014
Very busy week
Good evening,
I am at peace this evening, not that everything is easy or settled in my life, not at all but I'm very happy. PG&E had said that they would have our power off from 9 to 2 today, the 28th. Well they never turned it off after all. But I planned my day as if they would. So I saw 5 properties from Antioch, Hercules, Richmond and Pittsburg. All were small homes with the largest being only about 2500 sf. After the big ones I've seen this week today seemed easy. I finished up an excellent book called the Shack. I can urge anyone to listen to or read this book. It has some of the best ways of explaining how God works, How He thinks and what is our way back to Him. Its a moving story and a real library find. It has touched my life and given me help in a relationship I'm in. I don't think I will ever forget the story it told. The author living near Portland and was nearly broke having lost his home, his cars and gradually his wife urged him to write a story that his kids could read, out of the humble beginnings came this outstanding book that has had a big effect on readers around the world.
But as books tend to do this one came to an end and now I'm listening to one about 15th century England and the court intrigues. Not as meaningful but still interesting.
I would like to ask the readers of this blog to ask Jesus to guide in my life. My life has changed so much over the last four months. This is the first morning I've not walked or done the treadmill for the last 4 months but this morning as I thought the power was going off at 9 I had many things to do. I'm down 36.5 pounds and will soon be in the 180s instead of the 226 range. People at Starbucks look up and say, what happened to you, you look so much younger now and I explain my 4 rules, no eating at night period after dinner, walk 3 miles a day, drink water all the time and when you do eat eat carefully, just use your brain, if you are going to eat enough to be satisfied then you've had too much. Use salads where ever you are, McDonalds, Burger King both have cheap salads, don't drink soft drinks at all, drink only decaf coffee, if you find something that works just keep eating the same thing, I have oats every morning, they cook 3 minutes in the microwave oven, 1/2 cup with 1 cup water. I have one piece of toast, double fiber, I use avocado as my butter but I keep it spread thin, I have one banana or some berries and that is the meal for breakfast. I don't get tired of it because I know how to prepare it quickly, it always tastes good, I'm starved from the walk on a very empty tummy. I now have new habits formed so the same urge to back slide is less. When the relationship is going tough then it would be easy to snack in the evening but I stop as I don't want to go back to the former me.
I have energy to write reports, I have energy to carry my ladder and climb stairs, I am bright, alert, no cough, no chest pains. Biggest problems are these, my shirts and slacks just look funny, way too big and my friend is helping me with getting some better looking clothes, I now care about how I look because my friend is much younger and looking like her father is not much fun or helpful. As I write reports better I'm getting more work, God has so blessed me with lots of work to do and I'm getting it done in less time because my evenings are full with my personal life.
My friend is very blunt with me which was shocking at first but now I'm really appreciating it. This is the first time in a very long time that what I think, how I act and how much I tend to run off at the mouth is being challenged. I'm learning new things daily about me and while painful I'm becoming a better and more focused person, I'm very grateful even though sometimes it hurts to see just how thoughtless I have been in dominating conversations, perhaps even losing friendships in the process. Whether my relationship ends up positive or it ends up gradually unraveling I'm grateful to God for His leading me to this special person and for what I've been urged to face and for the gentle push into a better, more healthy life. All of the numbers in the latest blood work were vastly improved. When triglycerides move from 236 to 75 that is positive, other numbers changed in the same dramatic fashion.
Something else has changed as well. For so many years since losing Nan I've been sort of on a life path that had little direction. I just didn't care about anything enough other than the family but even there when the kiddos were here I just let them do their thing without any leadership. Now I find it very easy to determine who is in charge, I've taken control of my life again as it should be. My depression is gone. I love life and I intend to live it well. I'm renting the motorhome again which pays its monthly payment and insurance, I've got my house cleaned up a lot with clutter gone and I'm on my way to do more and more, I'm much more organized, on time to appointments, better at getting reports written and back on time.
No one should ever discount the effect of a good woman in a guy's life, not a push over woman but one with spirit, backbone, integrity and hard questions. I've squirmed under the questions, been a jerk with fits and selfish retorts but mostly I've learned lessons that I could not have learned anywhere else. For that experience I'm very grateful.
The Sabbath is here and I hope that during these hours you will take time to tell those you care about why, give hugs, flowers, hold hands and thank God you are not alone. Alone is no fun.
Sending love to all,
Tim
I am at peace this evening, not that everything is easy or settled in my life, not at all but I'm very happy. PG&E had said that they would have our power off from 9 to 2 today, the 28th. Well they never turned it off after all. But I planned my day as if they would. So I saw 5 properties from Antioch, Hercules, Richmond and Pittsburg. All were small homes with the largest being only about 2500 sf. After the big ones I've seen this week today seemed easy. I finished up an excellent book called the Shack. I can urge anyone to listen to or read this book. It has some of the best ways of explaining how God works, How He thinks and what is our way back to Him. Its a moving story and a real library find. It has touched my life and given me help in a relationship I'm in. I don't think I will ever forget the story it told. The author living near Portland and was nearly broke having lost his home, his cars and gradually his wife urged him to write a story that his kids could read, out of the humble beginnings came this outstanding book that has had a big effect on readers around the world.
But as books tend to do this one came to an end and now I'm listening to one about 15th century England and the court intrigues. Not as meaningful but still interesting.
I would like to ask the readers of this blog to ask Jesus to guide in my life. My life has changed so much over the last four months. This is the first morning I've not walked or done the treadmill for the last 4 months but this morning as I thought the power was going off at 9 I had many things to do. I'm down 36.5 pounds and will soon be in the 180s instead of the 226 range. People at Starbucks look up and say, what happened to you, you look so much younger now and I explain my 4 rules, no eating at night period after dinner, walk 3 miles a day, drink water all the time and when you do eat eat carefully, just use your brain, if you are going to eat enough to be satisfied then you've had too much. Use salads where ever you are, McDonalds, Burger King both have cheap salads, don't drink soft drinks at all, drink only decaf coffee, if you find something that works just keep eating the same thing, I have oats every morning, they cook 3 minutes in the microwave oven, 1/2 cup with 1 cup water. I have one piece of toast, double fiber, I use avocado as my butter but I keep it spread thin, I have one banana or some berries and that is the meal for breakfast. I don't get tired of it because I know how to prepare it quickly, it always tastes good, I'm starved from the walk on a very empty tummy. I now have new habits formed so the same urge to back slide is less. When the relationship is going tough then it would be easy to snack in the evening but I stop as I don't want to go back to the former me.
I have energy to write reports, I have energy to carry my ladder and climb stairs, I am bright, alert, no cough, no chest pains. Biggest problems are these, my shirts and slacks just look funny, way too big and my friend is helping me with getting some better looking clothes, I now care about how I look because my friend is much younger and looking like her father is not much fun or helpful. As I write reports better I'm getting more work, God has so blessed me with lots of work to do and I'm getting it done in less time because my evenings are full with my personal life.
My friend is very blunt with me which was shocking at first but now I'm really appreciating it. This is the first time in a very long time that what I think, how I act and how much I tend to run off at the mouth is being challenged. I'm learning new things daily about me and while painful I'm becoming a better and more focused person, I'm very grateful even though sometimes it hurts to see just how thoughtless I have been in dominating conversations, perhaps even losing friendships in the process. Whether my relationship ends up positive or it ends up gradually unraveling I'm grateful to God for His leading me to this special person and for what I've been urged to face and for the gentle push into a better, more healthy life. All of the numbers in the latest blood work were vastly improved. When triglycerides move from 236 to 75 that is positive, other numbers changed in the same dramatic fashion.
Something else has changed as well. For so many years since losing Nan I've been sort of on a life path that had little direction. I just didn't care about anything enough other than the family but even there when the kiddos were here I just let them do their thing without any leadership. Now I find it very easy to determine who is in charge, I've taken control of my life again as it should be. My depression is gone. I love life and I intend to live it well. I'm renting the motorhome again which pays its monthly payment and insurance, I've got my house cleaned up a lot with clutter gone and I'm on my way to do more and more, I'm much more organized, on time to appointments, better at getting reports written and back on time.
No one should ever discount the effect of a good woman in a guy's life, not a push over woman but one with spirit, backbone, integrity and hard questions. I've squirmed under the questions, been a jerk with fits and selfish retorts but mostly I've learned lessons that I could not have learned anywhere else. For that experience I'm very grateful.
The Sabbath is here and I hope that during these hours you will take time to tell those you care about why, give hugs, flowers, hold hands and thank God you are not alone. Alone is no fun.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Thursday, March 27, 2014
A long but very good day
Good evening
In a few minutes I'll be in bed.
Walked, showered, at, weighted in at an even 190 today, lowest yet I think. I feel great all the time, no coughing at all, no insulin at all, few allergies, strength to do my work, can't sleep as long now, up at 6 or so no matter when I go to bed.
Today I worked in the office, took breakfast to a friend, wrote an appraisal, got a new order while driving, accepted it, scheduled it and this evening I drove to San Jose to exchange cars with Jason and we met at the house, he helped me inspect and shoot photos, we shot comps, then we had dinner at Olive Garden, now I'm home. What a great day, I'm so thankful to a loving God for His many blessings in so many different ways.
Tomorrow I see 4 properties. I have to be out of the office since at 9 am PG&E is turning off all power until 2 pm. So I see properties all day, seemed like the right thing to do.
Love to all
Tim
In a few minutes I'll be in bed.
Walked, showered, at, weighted in at an even 190 today, lowest yet I think. I feel great all the time, no coughing at all, no insulin at all, few allergies, strength to do my work, can't sleep as long now, up at 6 or so no matter when I go to bed.
Today I worked in the office, took breakfast to a friend, wrote an appraisal, got a new order while driving, accepted it, scheduled it and this evening I drove to San Jose to exchange cars with Jason and we met at the house, he helped me inspect and shoot photos, we shot comps, then we had dinner at Olive Garden, now I'm home. What a great day, I'm so thankful to a loving God for His many blessings in so many different ways.
Tomorrow I see 4 properties. I have to be out of the office since at 9 am PG&E is turning off all power until 2 pm. So I see properties all day, seemed like the right thing to do.
Love to all
Tim
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Short night, long ay
Last night I was preparing a report on the 4.2 million dollar sale in Saint Helena, I finished at 12:30, hit the wrong button and lost the entire report. So I started over and at 2 am sent it to the lender. There are usually two appraisals done for this kind of sale and the other appraiser also submitted her report.
This afternoon the lender called me to say our sketches are very different from each other, would I please change mine and send in a new report. They sent me the sketches so I could see hers. Its a huge mess. The home has a 45 degree angle but she failed to capture that at all, the lower and upper floors are the same outer walls but hers are totally different. She came in with 5000 sf for the main house and I came in at 4300 sf. If she does not get her sketch cleaned up I think she is in trouble. The photos of the house clearly show it has a 45 degree angle, you can't miss it, well I guess you can because she missed it badly. I've had to go back to houses many times because the sketch was not working out in the office. Its not pride at that point, its being fair to the property owners, you got to get it right.
I've been so sleepy today driving around, saw properties in Rodeo, Oakland, Brentwood. Had dinner at PF Chang in Walnut Creek tonight, very good food, reasonable prices for what we had.
Sending love to all,
Always appreciate your prayers for guidance from God for my life.
Tim
This afternoon the lender called me to say our sketches are very different from each other, would I please change mine and send in a new report. They sent me the sketches so I could see hers. Its a huge mess. The home has a 45 degree angle but she failed to capture that at all, the lower and upper floors are the same outer walls but hers are totally different. She came in with 5000 sf for the main house and I came in at 4300 sf. If she does not get her sketch cleaned up I think she is in trouble. The photos of the house clearly show it has a 45 degree angle, you can't miss it, well I guess you can because she missed it badly. I've had to go back to houses many times because the sketch was not working out in the office. Its not pride at that point, its being fair to the property owners, you got to get it right.
I've been so sleepy today driving around, saw properties in Rodeo, Oakland, Brentwood. Had dinner at PF Chang in Walnut Creek tonight, very good food, reasonable prices for what we had.
Sending love to all,
Always appreciate your prayers for guidance from God for my life.
Tim
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
A day of contrasts
Hi
Right now I'm writing up an appraisal for a property I inspected in Saint Helena this morning.
Getting there required an early ride on the treadmill and on the road but I arrived on time. It was raining and the vineyards just looked beautiful everywhere.
The home was about 5,000 sf and had a panoramic view, a huge pool, a guest home and a green house, perfect landscaping and a selling price of 4.2 million. Highest I've ever appraised. Had I know the sale price I would have turned this one down. Then when I had just finished the comps which took another hour as I found every little road the client called to say they would pay another $100 on top of the $505 they were already paying me if they could have it in the morning, not Thursday morning as agreed. promised of putting me on a special approved appraiser list and the president of the loan company loving me were made. So here I am writing up this report with fear and trembling. The comps support the price and are within a few miles so I think the outcome will be good.
The contracts came when I inspected a little house in Antioch of less than 1000 feet. The owners were so sweet but this home could have fit in the living and family rooms of the big house. Was one owner happier than the other, not really, just moved in different circles obviously.
So I measured in the rain and through the landscaping, not all that fun really.
Suddenly my orders are piled up, guess I'd better settle down and work, I 'm so thankful to have the work. God is good through all the challenges of life.
Sending love to all
Tim
PS Jason says on the facebook account that he got to talk to Jo this morning from Malaysia. He was jazzed and I don't blame him. I used to be happy to hear back from Nan when she was just in Texas.
Right now I'm writing up an appraisal for a property I inspected in Saint Helena this morning.
Getting there required an early ride on the treadmill and on the road but I arrived on time. It was raining and the vineyards just looked beautiful everywhere.
The home was about 5,000 sf and had a panoramic view, a huge pool, a guest home and a green house, perfect landscaping and a selling price of 4.2 million. Highest I've ever appraised. Had I know the sale price I would have turned this one down. Then when I had just finished the comps which took another hour as I found every little road the client called to say they would pay another $100 on top of the $505 they were already paying me if they could have it in the morning, not Thursday morning as agreed. promised of putting me on a special approved appraiser list and the president of the loan company loving me were made. So here I am writing up this report with fear and trembling. The comps support the price and are within a few miles so I think the outcome will be good.
The contracts came when I inspected a little house in Antioch of less than 1000 feet. The owners were so sweet but this home could have fit in the living and family rooms of the big house. Was one owner happier than the other, not really, just moved in different circles obviously.
So I measured in the rain and through the landscaping, not all that fun really.
Suddenly my orders are piled up, guess I'd better settle down and work, I 'm so thankful to have the work. God is good through all the challenges of life.
Sending love to all
Tim
PS Jason says on the facebook account that he got to talk to Jo this morning from Malaysia. He was jazzed and I don't blame him. I used to be happy to hear back from Nan when she was just in Texas.
Monday, March 24, 2014
Quick and dirty
Good evening, long day and I'm preparing for a trip to Saint Helena tomorrow. I thought I was going to see a 1 million dollar home but I'm seeing a property worth nearly 5 million and 5,000 sf in size. I'll be there at 10 in the morning and it will be quite a day to be sure.
Wow, today has been a good day with various ups and downs but I'll be glad to go to bed tonight.
Up early or I won't get to walk and I don't want to lose that.
More tomorrow
love
tim
Wow, today has been a good day with various ups and downs but I'll be glad to go to bed tonight.
Up early or I won't get to walk and I don't want to lose that.
More tomorrow
love
tim
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Pretty good day
As I mentioned the girls, Kallie and Keanna, were here from about 4:30 on yesterday. Kallie comes with loads of toys but Keanna is mostly into books and the IPAD so moving her is easier. They played while I worked on the breaker box and when that was all done and everything worked again then I came in.
At about 8 we went to LaVilla, a Mexican place out at Bethel Island, a 10 minute drive. The girls were very good at dinner and both ate well. I ended up eating too much and felt it all night. Whole beans or not they have a result in ones body.
Once we got home Kallie was a goner but Keanna stayed up late I think. This morning when my alarm went off at 7 Kallie was already up, she tends to rise early. She came in and played on my phone while I did 30 minutes on the treadmill and then 15 minutes on the ski machine. While I was on the ski machine she learned how to use the treadmill and walked on it for quite a while. Very cute.
We had waffles for breakfast and then I took them home and headed to Stockton to take one photo of a strapped water heater. The owner had already sent the photo to me with a text but the lender insisted I make the inspection. So I wasted an hour and half to make $75. Then I drove to Brentwood to see a 4600 sf home. It was a very nice home and I enjoyed meeting the lady of the house. Both she and her husband are Deputy Sheriffs and her husband had a shift today in Discovery Bay. The one thing that really stood out about the home was that is was just big, every room was huge and there were plenty of rooms.
Once that was finished I drove home, made a nice lunch with salad and a griller chopped up along with a boiled egg, mushrooms, tomato. Then it was time to set up orders in the office, write up a deposit slip for the bank, quite a lot of money came in over the weekend.
In the morning I'll be right here at the desk writing up reports. I am so thankful to God for family, friends and this new lease on life I have since losing the weight. 36 pounds is no small accomplishment and now walking, riding my bike, carrying things, working outside, nothing phases me at all. I am so thankful for new habits, new mental attitudes toward life, toward exercise, toward relationships. Life is very good right now and I praise God for that.
Sending love to all,
tim
At about 8 we went to LaVilla, a Mexican place out at Bethel Island, a 10 minute drive. The girls were very good at dinner and both ate well. I ended up eating too much and felt it all night. Whole beans or not they have a result in ones body.
Once we got home Kallie was a goner but Keanna stayed up late I think. This morning when my alarm went off at 7 Kallie was already up, she tends to rise early. She came in and played on my phone while I did 30 minutes on the treadmill and then 15 minutes on the ski machine. While I was on the ski machine she learned how to use the treadmill and walked on it for quite a while. Very cute.
We had waffles for breakfast and then I took them home and headed to Stockton to take one photo of a strapped water heater. The owner had already sent the photo to me with a text but the lender insisted I make the inspection. So I wasted an hour and half to make $75. Then I drove to Brentwood to see a 4600 sf home. It was a very nice home and I enjoyed meeting the lady of the house. Both she and her husband are Deputy Sheriffs and her husband had a shift today in Discovery Bay. The one thing that really stood out about the home was that is was just big, every room was huge and there were plenty of rooms.
Once that was finished I drove home, made a nice lunch with salad and a griller chopped up along with a boiled egg, mushrooms, tomato. Then it was time to set up orders in the office, write up a deposit slip for the bank, quite a lot of money came in over the weekend.
In the morning I'll be right here at the desk writing up reports. I am so thankful to God for family, friends and this new lease on life I have since losing the weight. 36 pounds is no small accomplishment and now walking, riding my bike, carrying things, working outside, nothing phases me at all. I am so thankful for new habits, new mental attitudes toward life, toward exercise, toward relationships. Life is very good right now and I praise God for that.
Sending love to all,
tim
Saturday, March 22, 2014
A different kind of Sabbath - kiddos in the air
Good evening,
Just checked with Jason and Jo with Mia and Timothy are set to land in Japan in the next little while. They have been flying since noon today and will be there for 40 minutes and then leave for Malaysia, a total of 20 hours flying.
Jason let me know when they would be leaving this morning so I rose early, skipped my 3 mile walk for the first time in nearly three months and was at their home before 9 am. I got to see the kids and they were wired for their big adventure. We all drove to the airport and saw them off as well as one can these days with security being as it is. Then Jason and I went back to his place to chat for awhile and watch his active bird feeder. I left about 1.
This morning I picked up Jason's Subaru from Borden Junction where combined we spent $917 in repairs yesterday, all so the check engine light would go out and we could do a smog. When I arrived to pick up the car it started without the check engine light on but in the next 10 miles the light came on. I was really upset, we had just spent all this money for new converters at $400 a piece and here the light was back on again. So I did not leave the car with Jason but drove it back so they could fix it right this time. When I came back I went by my favorite little tire place in Brentwood to ask them why the steering wheel shook in my hand. The owner ran his hand over the front tires and said they had slight bumps in them. He suggested we move the front tires to the back and the back to the front. We did and $15 dollars later the car rides smooth. When I started the car the check engine light was out!!
For weeks I've been meaning to get my hair cut so today I went to my favorite lady, Amber and waited until she could give it a quick cut. After Amber I decided to just drive by the smog guy to see if he was even open. He was not only open he took the car without the paperwork, did the smog, it passed and now its done.
Then I picked up Keanna and Kallie as they are staying the night, a papa sleep over!
When I got home I went out to the power box and shut the entire house down with the big master breaker. Then I installed the two new breakers I purchased yesterday and put the other two back in that I was told were fine. Once I had everything snapped into place and wires tightened I turned the big master back on and everything now works. Breakers get their electrical power from making contact with a bar that runs from the top to the bottom the entire box. Little fingers are supposed to hold the power bar tightly but two of mine were so weak that they were arcing across and not making proper contact. The new ones work like a charge and are great. Now I'm going to clean up the floor under the frig and then roll it back into place out of the middle of the kitchen floor. The garage door and freezer work well again, nice to get it back right without killing myself.
And with that report I'm heading to bed soon.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Just checked with Jason and Jo with Mia and Timothy are set to land in Japan in the next little while. They have been flying since noon today and will be there for 40 minutes and then leave for Malaysia, a total of 20 hours flying.
Jason let me know when they would be leaving this morning so I rose early, skipped my 3 mile walk for the first time in nearly three months and was at their home before 9 am. I got to see the kids and they were wired for their big adventure. We all drove to the airport and saw them off as well as one can these days with security being as it is. Then Jason and I went back to his place to chat for awhile and watch his active bird feeder. I left about 1.
This morning I picked up Jason's Subaru from Borden Junction where combined we spent $917 in repairs yesterday, all so the check engine light would go out and we could do a smog. When I arrived to pick up the car it started without the check engine light on but in the next 10 miles the light came on. I was really upset, we had just spent all this money for new converters at $400 a piece and here the light was back on again. So I did not leave the car with Jason but drove it back so they could fix it right this time. When I came back I went by my favorite little tire place in Brentwood to ask them why the steering wheel shook in my hand. The owner ran his hand over the front tires and said they had slight bumps in them. He suggested we move the front tires to the back and the back to the front. We did and $15 dollars later the car rides smooth. When I started the car the check engine light was out!!
For weeks I've been meaning to get my hair cut so today I went to my favorite lady, Amber and waited until she could give it a quick cut. After Amber I decided to just drive by the smog guy to see if he was even open. He was not only open he took the car without the paperwork, did the smog, it passed and now its done.
Then I picked up Keanna and Kallie as they are staying the night, a papa sleep over!
When I got home I went out to the power box and shut the entire house down with the big master breaker. Then I installed the two new breakers I purchased yesterday and put the other two back in that I was told were fine. Once I had everything snapped into place and wires tightened I turned the big master back on and everything now works. Breakers get their electrical power from making contact with a bar that runs from the top to the bottom the entire box. Little fingers are supposed to hold the power bar tightly but two of mine were so weak that they were arcing across and not making proper contact. The new ones work like a charge and are great. Now I'm going to clean up the floor under the frig and then roll it back into place out of the middle of the kitchen floor. The garage door and freezer work well again, nice to get it back right without killing myself.
And with that report I'm heading to bed soon.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Wow, the week ends nicely
Good morning
Well I sort of had a late night tonight but really enjoyed myself at a very nice Thai restaurant in Walnut Creek, the food was just incredibly good and the company was even better. I am thankful for moments like these.
Today was filled with differing adventures. First off Pooka and I did the 3 mile walk, then the breakfast and I started working. Soon I decided that I'd tackle the garage power situation. For over a week the power for the entire garage including the freezer has been on and off with the only reason being the electrical service box on the side of the house. so this morning with a screw driver, a pliers and a wire stripped I faced the power box. Not wanting to shut everything down I worked on it live. Not long after I started I let something tough something else and there was a huge fireball of light and sound, I was not hurt but could have been. I ended up taking a couple breakers out and going to town to buy more but found out my breakers were fine, they were working great. Before I got through messing with the service box I had one bank of kitchen plugs out including the one for the frig. Eventually I ran drop cords to various devices that had power failures, that included a cord to the garage door opener, to the freezer in the garage, to the scanning computer in the office and to the frig in the kitchen. I moved the microwave oven to the other side of the kitchen where the power is still fine.
So right now the house is a mess.
Late this afternoon I drove to a special electrical supply store and purchased two more breakers just so I'd have them on hand if I need them. I hear some arcing where the breaker plugs in the power bar but the guy said I can clean the contacts and that should solve that problem. So there will be more working around the 200 amp electrical service before these problems are solved.
I took time to write an appraisal and then hit the road first for a car wash, my friend does not like dirty cars, is never critical but comments when it is clean so that is a great reason to have it clean.
Then I drove to the electrical supply store and then back to see a property in Antioch. They had two beautiful little pugs and work with pug rescue so they are on my good list.
Tomorrow morning I hope to rise early enough to get to San Jose to see my little ones off on their big trip to Malaysia. Jason's car is finally repaired at a high price but converters do not come cheap!
Love to all,
Tim
Well I sort of had a late night tonight but really enjoyed myself at a very nice Thai restaurant in Walnut Creek, the food was just incredibly good and the company was even better. I am thankful for moments like these.
Today was filled with differing adventures. First off Pooka and I did the 3 mile walk, then the breakfast and I started working. Soon I decided that I'd tackle the garage power situation. For over a week the power for the entire garage including the freezer has been on and off with the only reason being the electrical service box on the side of the house. so this morning with a screw driver, a pliers and a wire stripped I faced the power box. Not wanting to shut everything down I worked on it live. Not long after I started I let something tough something else and there was a huge fireball of light and sound, I was not hurt but could have been. I ended up taking a couple breakers out and going to town to buy more but found out my breakers were fine, they were working great. Before I got through messing with the service box I had one bank of kitchen plugs out including the one for the frig. Eventually I ran drop cords to various devices that had power failures, that included a cord to the garage door opener, to the freezer in the garage, to the scanning computer in the office and to the frig in the kitchen. I moved the microwave oven to the other side of the kitchen where the power is still fine.
So right now the house is a mess.
Late this afternoon I drove to a special electrical supply store and purchased two more breakers just so I'd have them on hand if I need them. I hear some arcing where the breaker plugs in the power bar but the guy said I can clean the contacts and that should solve that problem. So there will be more working around the 200 amp electrical service before these problems are solved.
I took time to write an appraisal and then hit the road first for a car wash, my friend does not like dirty cars, is never critical but comments when it is clean so that is a great reason to have it clean.
Then I drove to the electrical supply store and then back to see a property in Antioch. They had two beautiful little pugs and work with pug rescue so they are on my good list.
Tomorrow morning I hope to rise early enough to get to San Jose to see my little ones off on their big trip to Malaysia. Jason's car is finally repaired at a high price but converters do not come cheap!
Love to all,
Tim
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Good day
I heard from my friend Steve Souza, we used to work together doing appraisals and helping with the loans he would originate. He was writing to tell me of his medical issues and also to ask about the book I mentioned enjoying. Well the book ended today, I always feel like I'm saying good bye to a good friend when my books come to an end. It was very exciting but sure did not make evangelical Christians look very good. Still a great read.
This morning I loaded the bike in the Subaru and drove to Borden Junction, our local garage. Then I left the car to have repairs and rode my bike home. It felt pretty good and with the weight loss and the new strength the 4 miles back was super easy.
Then I did some research on local colleges for my friend and her daughter, did research for the day and left for Oakland where I did a couple appraisals. I had some nice time with my friend this evening and now I'm ready to crash but alas my bed is not made. I washed all the blankets, sheets and pillow today so I'll have to make the bed before I can lie in it.
Very thankful for safe travel as I was on a lot of narrow streets today, on fast freeways, in tunnels and put on quite a few miles.
Love to all
Tim
PS I hope Steve's medical issues are about over and he will feel much better.
This morning I loaded the bike in the Subaru and drove to Borden Junction, our local garage. Then I left the car to have repairs and rode my bike home. It felt pretty good and with the weight loss and the new strength the 4 miles back was super easy.
Then I did some research on local colleges for my friend and her daughter, did research for the day and left for Oakland where I did a couple appraisals. I had some nice time with my friend this evening and now I'm ready to crash but alas my bed is not made. I washed all the blankets, sheets and pillow today so I'll have to make the bed before I can lie in it.
Very thankful for safe travel as I was on a lot of narrow streets today, on fast freeways, in tunnels and put on quite a few miles.
Love to all
Tim
PS I hope Steve's medical issues are about over and he will feel much better.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Really good day
Back on the trail this morning and the 3 miles went by fast, just ask Pooka! Then a quick breakfast, some research and I was off to Fairfield. I met a really nice guy who works on hospital machines for Kaiser that are GE, Xray and such. So fun to meet these nice homeowners. After Fairfield it was on to Oakland which is amazingly only about 30 minutes away down 80.
The Oakland house was bizarre. Point bright yellow and bright green it was unforgettable. It was so bright to measure that my eyes hurt. Snapped that one quickly and then I got a call cancelling my next appointment. Well I went by just in case it turns in to a driveby and shots some photos, then hit the road to spend time with my friend, tonight she was introduced to Mexican food and while she was not wild about it she can handle most anything but chocolate. She really has changed my life, I'm down 36 pounds and I know that its because of her example, she probably weights 110 or so.
New orders came in today and for that I'm very thankful to a loving Heavenly Father. Right now I'm listening to a book I got from the library, its so good, about a super collider built in the Arizona desert in the middle of a Mesa, its the story of the team and how when they get the machine up to 100% they discover God talking to them through the machine. Its just a great read.
Well to bed now, life is very very good right now.
Love to all
Tim
The Oakland house was bizarre. Point bright yellow and bright green it was unforgettable. It was so bright to measure that my eyes hurt. Snapped that one quickly and then I got a call cancelling my next appointment. Well I went by just in case it turns in to a driveby and shots some photos, then hit the road to spend time with my friend, tonight she was introduced to Mexican food and while she was not wild about it she can handle most anything but chocolate. She really has changed my life, I'm down 36 pounds and I know that its because of her example, she probably weights 110 or so.
New orders came in today and for that I'm very thankful to a loving Heavenly Father. Right now I'm listening to a book I got from the library, its so good, about a super collider built in the Arizona desert in the middle of a Mesa, its the story of the team and how when they get the machine up to 100% they discover God talking to them through the machine. Its just a great read.
Well to bed now, life is very very good right now.
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
It was not boring
Having two very bright little girls, 5 and 10 for the past few days has been quite an experience. While they do not often agree and sometimes even come to blows for the most part they were great.
We had meals in and meals out, the TV was on a lot and Netflix really came through with some good shows. Keanna decided to make clay yesterday, found a recipe on the ipad and tried it. I just threw it away, it set up OK but really had an odor. It was fun to see her measure it out and make it happen.
Amazingly the girls let me work and I got caught up while they were here. I tried hard to get everything inspected in the days prior to their coming so I had work to do in the office. That plan worked out great and tomorrow I'm back out inspecting three properties.
I'm so blessed to have this great family and the girls are an important part of the whole family. They look out for each other most of the time and are very helpful to their Papa.
Nikki and Steve had a good time in Vegas and came home a little richer and probably short on sleep. Nikki is now officially 40 years old, how her mother would have loved to see the day.
Well I'm growing sleepy now so good night.
Love
Tim
We had meals in and meals out, the TV was on a lot and Netflix really came through with some good shows. Keanna decided to make clay yesterday, found a recipe on the ipad and tried it. I just threw it away, it set up OK but really had an odor. It was fun to see her measure it out and make it happen.
Amazingly the girls let me work and I got caught up while they were here. I tried hard to get everything inspected in the days prior to their coming so I had work to do in the office. That plan worked out great and tomorrow I'm back out inspecting three properties.
I'm so blessed to have this great family and the girls are an important part of the whole family. They look out for each other most of the time and are very helpful to their Papa.
Nikki and Steve had a good time in Vegas and came home a little richer and probably short on sleep. Nikki is now officially 40 years old, how her mother would have loved to see the day.
Well I'm growing sleepy now so good night.
Love
Tim
Monday, March 17, 2014
Full day with the girls
So today has been a combo day, we combined Tanya coming to clean the house, the girls playing and me writing appraisals and working. We've been to the bank twice, to Red Robin for lunch, just now to Jeliscos (Mexican place in Brentwood) for dinner and amazingly it all has worked out. Are the girls angels all the time, well frankly NO but they do pretty well. Both are bright, stubborn and know the right things to do, just don't always do the right things.
Nikki and Steve are enjoying their time in Vegas and send photos of what they are seeing from time to time to my phone. They will be back about 5 tomorrow evening and it looks like I'll make it through after all. The girls say they look forward to seeing their folks but have really had a good time here as well. My social life is suffering a bit but its OK.
This morning not being able to leave the house to walk my 3 miles I did the treadmill for 30 minutes but found the normal pace was too slow so speeded up a lot and covered more miles with my time. Then I climbed on the ski machine and did 15 very hard minutes. I was pouring sweat when I left the machines so I think I got my work out OK.
I've eaten too much today and will suffer at the scales in the morning, bummer on that.
Well I'm going to complete a Stockton report yet tonight while the girls are winding down.
Love to all
Tim
Nikki and Steve are enjoying their time in Vegas and send photos of what they are seeing from time to time to my phone. They will be back about 5 tomorrow evening and it looks like I'll make it through after all. The girls say they look forward to seeing their folks but have really had a good time here as well. My social life is suffering a bit but its OK.
This morning not being able to leave the house to walk my 3 miles I did the treadmill for 30 minutes but found the normal pace was too slow so speeded up a lot and covered more miles with my time. Then I climbed on the ski machine and did 15 very hard minutes. I was pouring sweat when I left the machines so I think I got my work out OK.
I've eaten too much today and will suffer at the scales in the morning, bummer on that.
Well I'm going to complete a Stockton report yet tonight while the girls are winding down.
Love to all
Tim
Sunday, March 16, 2014
A different kind of Sunday, the kiddos are here for 3 days! Yikes, am I up to this? Well actually I am
Good evening,
I picked them up at 7:45 this morning, they filled the car with their stuff, Nikki sent special food and we stopped at Safeway for milk. We have had a good day. The girls are very good about letting me work so I've gotten a lot done today, more than usual really but part of that is I'm so much quicker now that my brain works better and faster. I got up and walked before daybreak today so I could get it in. Tomorrow I'll do the treadmill and the ski machine for my 50 minutes, just can't pass up exercise at all.
The girls have used their electronic devices, watched TV, we went to the park, they have their scooters so they make the trip quickly. We went to a new Mexican place for lunch. A very simple place but the food was OK. We got 20 pieces of McNuggets and have them in the frig, the girls had frozen waffles for breakfast. Tonight Keanna helped me make pasta which she ate with a large bowl of green beans.
Now they are moving toward their bed time and I'm very ready for them to settle in for the evening.
Its different to be with kiddos as I've been with my friend nearly every evening for several days for dinner and I feel like I've let her down. She knows what I'm doing and is glad that I'm able to help with the girls, she understands perfectly as she has a daughter that is precious to her too.
So I'm sending a message of love this evening, life is good, loving others is the best way to live and our families are very special to us all.
Love
Tim
I picked them up at 7:45 this morning, they filled the car with their stuff, Nikki sent special food and we stopped at Safeway for milk. We have had a good day. The girls are very good about letting me work so I've gotten a lot done today, more than usual really but part of that is I'm so much quicker now that my brain works better and faster. I got up and walked before daybreak today so I could get it in. Tomorrow I'll do the treadmill and the ski machine for my 50 minutes, just can't pass up exercise at all.
The girls have used their electronic devices, watched TV, we went to the park, they have their scooters so they make the trip quickly. We went to a new Mexican place for lunch. A very simple place but the food was OK. We got 20 pieces of McNuggets and have them in the frig, the girls had frozen waffles for breakfast. Tonight Keanna helped me make pasta which she ate with a large bowl of green beans.
Now they are moving toward their bed time and I'm very ready for them to settle in for the evening.
Its different to be with kiddos as I've been with my friend nearly every evening for several days for dinner and I feel like I've let her down. She knows what I'm doing and is glad that I'm able to help with the girls, she understands perfectly as she has a daughter that is precious to her too.
So I'm sending a message of love this evening, life is good, loving others is the best way to live and our families are very special to us all.
Love
Tim
Saturday, March 15, 2014
A great day
Dear Family and Friends,
I'm sitting here in my office chair yawning, its time to give it up and go to bed.
This morning I walked, nearly ran, had breakfast and then went to church. The kiddos were busy and decided not to attend. Church was worthwhile and then I came back home, changed clothes and went to spend an afternoon with my friend, that was a very nice experience and we enjoyed the warm sunshine as we strolled. We ended at a Sushi bar where she found a Chinese waitress who spoke fluent Chinese so that helped her know what to order. I had a simple sale but it was so excellent that I felt good about eating there.
Keanna was on stage with her musical drama group that she is a part of. At 5pm today she performed with singing, on pitch, dancing and some word parts too. It was very cute and she really did great. she loves the stage.
Then we went to UNOs to celebrate Nikki's birthday and that was very nice as well. I probably won't lose any weight today but this morning I had dumped another two pounds, down 36 pounds, over 16% of my body weight is now gone so I'm feeling pretty good about that.
Right now I think sleep is calling,
Love to all
These are very exciting times, not sure of the outcome but I sure enjoy the process.
Tim
I'm sitting here in my office chair yawning, its time to give it up and go to bed.
This morning I walked, nearly ran, had breakfast and then went to church. The kiddos were busy and decided not to attend. Church was worthwhile and then I came back home, changed clothes and went to spend an afternoon with my friend, that was a very nice experience and we enjoyed the warm sunshine as we strolled. We ended at a Sushi bar where she found a Chinese waitress who spoke fluent Chinese so that helped her know what to order. I had a simple sale but it was so excellent that I felt good about eating there.
Keanna was on stage with her musical drama group that she is a part of. At 5pm today she performed with singing, on pitch, dancing and some word parts too. It was very cute and she really did great. she loves the stage.
Then we went to UNOs to celebrate Nikki's birthday and that was very nice as well. I probably won't lose any weight today but this morning I had dumped another two pounds, down 36 pounds, over 16% of my body weight is now gone so I'm feeling pretty good about that.
Right now I think sleep is calling,
Love to all
These are very exciting times, not sure of the outcome but I sure enjoy the process.
Tim
Friday, March 14, 2014
34 pounds
Great news this morning, I now weigh 192.5, lowest in 20 years. I am so grateful to those who have inspired me, especially my special friend. I feel great, no longer take insulin, no longer cough, no longer huff and puff when I carry my ladder up stairs, no longer fall asleep when I'm writing reports. My life is totally different and I'm very thankful to family and friends and especially to our creator God.
Today was 3 mile walk, then race to Kaiser for fasting tests. Amazing how much better things are now. Cholesterol is 73 now, that's one of the numbers I remember. Waiting to see the A1C but so far that test is not being reported.
Then I went to the cafeteria for oatmeal and scrambled eggs, what a treat.
Then it back home to quickly write a report and head out to Orinda to see a very cute home, then on to Benicia. I was going there to meet Jessie but as I drove that way through terrible traffic she texted me to say she had been in a bad accident and her car was destroyed. So I did not see her but the car was towed and I went ahead and did the appraisal for her friend in Benicia.
Then I headed back to find dinner for my friend and it all turned out very well.
Tomorrow I take Kallie to SS and then in the afternoon at 5 Keanna is in her musical drama play. Can't wait and then in the evening we celebrate Nikki's birthday probably at UNOs.
So it will be a day filled with family and celebration.
Love
Tim
Today was 3 mile walk, then race to Kaiser for fasting tests. Amazing how much better things are now. Cholesterol is 73 now, that's one of the numbers I remember. Waiting to see the A1C but so far that test is not being reported.
Then I went to the cafeteria for oatmeal and scrambled eggs, what a treat.
Then it back home to quickly write a report and head out to Orinda to see a very cute home, then on to Benicia. I was going there to meet Jessie but as I drove that way through terrible traffic she texted me to say she had been in a bad accident and her car was destroyed. So I did not see her but the car was towed and I went ahead and did the appraisal for her friend in Benicia.
Then I headed back to find dinner for my friend and it all turned out very well.
Tomorrow I take Kallie to SS and then in the afternoon at 5 Keanna is in her musical drama play. Can't wait and then in the evening we celebrate Nikki's birthday probably at UNOs.
So it will be a day filled with family and celebration.
Love
Tim
Thursday, March 13, 2014
A very long day
Even though I slept very well last night the 7 am alarm was a surprise. I jumped up, prayed, seems like I have a lot to talk to the Lord about these days, never needed His guidance more than now.
Did the 3 mile in record time and started research in the office. I had a noon appointment in Brentwood and the renter was a really nice guy, heavy and experiencing severe foot pain from arthritis. Felt bad for him.
Then I found a GNC, my friend had asked that I locate a certain med that someone told her would help with bone and heart. While I was there I found a couple more, what a great place, pricy but really good stuff.
Then I inspected a second Brentwood house, empty and very nice. Then it was on the road and to deliver the meds, that done and she fed me a banana, peanut butter crackers and water, I felt like I had a feast, I was so hungry. Then it was off to see a place in San Ramon where on the phone the sales lady sounded sort of short tempered. But when I got there it was totally different. Heavy set and jovial we had a great time as I prepared for the appraisal with her sales office comps. After I left San Ramon the traffic getting back up to Walnut Creek was awful. A 10 minute drive took an hour. Found some food at Panda Express, delivered it to my friend, ate with her and then headed home.
Now all I have to do is write a full appraisal and hit the hay. Tomorrow morning I do not eat. I go to Kaiser for fasting blood work. will be very interesting to see the outcome. Then back home to work and then to Orinda for a 3 pm and to help Jessie with her friends house that needs a Historical appraisal in Benicia. After that I can relax a bit.
Good night, please keep me in your prayers, I need guidance, patience and a fast lesson in relationships!
Love
tim
Did the 3 mile in record time and started research in the office. I had a noon appointment in Brentwood and the renter was a really nice guy, heavy and experiencing severe foot pain from arthritis. Felt bad for him.
Then I found a GNC, my friend had asked that I locate a certain med that someone told her would help with bone and heart. While I was there I found a couple more, what a great place, pricy but really good stuff.
Then I inspected a second Brentwood house, empty and very nice. Then it was on the road and to deliver the meds, that done and she fed me a banana, peanut butter crackers and water, I felt like I had a feast, I was so hungry. Then it was off to see a place in San Ramon where on the phone the sales lady sounded sort of short tempered. But when I got there it was totally different. Heavy set and jovial we had a great time as I prepared for the appraisal with her sales office comps. After I left San Ramon the traffic getting back up to Walnut Creek was awful. A 10 minute drive took an hour. Found some food at Panda Express, delivered it to my friend, ate with her and then headed home.
Now all I have to do is write a full appraisal and hit the hay. Tomorrow morning I do not eat. I go to Kaiser for fasting blood work. will be very interesting to see the outcome. Then back home to work and then to Orinda for a 3 pm and to help Jessie with her friends house that needs a Historical appraisal in Benicia. After that I can relax a bit.
Good night, please keep me in your prayers, I need guidance, patience and a fast lesson in relationships!
Love
tim
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
kiddo day
So today's high point was picking up the girls at school, taking them through the book fair and then McDonalds, then the car repair place to have Jason's care checked out, then home to work and play.
The girls do a good job of caring for themselves and it was an enjoyable afternoon.
I was able to crank out some work and right now I'm still cranking work.
So thankful to have work and a good profession that has treated me very well over the years. Howard and Dolly Vogel certainly did a big thing when they talk Nan and I the profession years ago. What a huge difference that makes to have something that is needed in society and to be able to deliver it day after day.
My prayer every morning is that I will do good, honest work and take good care of the people I work for.
Yesterday I spent some time with a guy that lost his sweet wife in the spring of 2013. She fought a good battle and they eventually lost but it was good to be able to relate to him, not avoid the subject but just deal with it in our conversations as we inspected two homes he owns. Felt God's leading as we talked over what we feel and how something like music can cause a spring of emotions.
Well back to work now,
Love to all
Tim
The girls do a good job of caring for themselves and it was an enjoyable afternoon.
I was able to crank out some work and right now I'm still cranking work.
So thankful to have work and a good profession that has treated me very well over the years. Howard and Dolly Vogel certainly did a big thing when they talk Nan and I the profession years ago. What a huge difference that makes to have something that is needed in society and to be able to deliver it day after day.
My prayer every morning is that I will do good, honest work and take good care of the people I work for.
Yesterday I spent some time with a guy that lost his sweet wife in the spring of 2013. She fought a good battle and they eventually lost but it was good to be able to relate to him, not avoid the subject but just deal with it in our conversations as we inspected two homes he owns. Felt God's leading as we talked over what we feel and how something like music can cause a spring of emotions.
Well back to work now,
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Excellent day
Dear Family and Friends,
Tonight as I write I'd like to report I've done 4 appraisal inspections, two this morning, an hour with my friend in the early afternoon and then 2 more this evening. Guess which part of the day I enjoyed most!
I slept well last night content that God could handle everything, it takes some time to really allow Him access to our most pressing problems, we don't want to trust Him with them, He might cause a different outcome than we desire.
I enjoyed the people I met today as I was traveling around. Of course people tend to be on their best behavior when the appraiser comes to visit, that part is nice, I get offers of beers, wine, soda's and water. I sometimes take the water.
This morning I was down 31.5 pounds and it felt good. This evening after the last appraisal I stopped at Red Robin. Sitting at the bar I ordered a vege burger wrap and a side salad. What a great meal and it probably had very few calories or carbs at all. It was nice.
Well its bedtime very soon for me. I'm tired and worn out but contented with my personal life at the moment, its not heading in the way I had hoped but its OK and we are very very good friends at the moment, not a bad thing to be.
Love to all
Tim
Tonight as I write I'd like to report I've done 4 appraisal inspections, two this morning, an hour with my friend in the early afternoon and then 2 more this evening. Guess which part of the day I enjoyed most!
I slept well last night content that God could handle everything, it takes some time to really allow Him access to our most pressing problems, we don't want to trust Him with them, He might cause a different outcome than we desire.
I enjoyed the people I met today as I was traveling around. Of course people tend to be on their best behavior when the appraiser comes to visit, that part is nice, I get offers of beers, wine, soda's and water. I sometimes take the water.
This morning I was down 31.5 pounds and it felt good. This evening after the last appraisal I stopped at Red Robin. Sitting at the bar I ordered a vege burger wrap and a side salad. What a great meal and it probably had very few calories or carbs at all. It was nice.
Well its bedtime very soon for me. I'm tired and worn out but contented with my personal life at the moment, its not heading in the way I had hoped but its OK and we are very very good friends at the moment, not a bad thing to be.
Love to all
Tim
Monday, March 10, 2014
Change of plans
Good evening,
Last night after I had completed the blog or at least I think after the blog a long conversation took place and the outcome was very sad for me.
Had a rough night and today has been very depressing for me as well. Not everything goes well in life, some things just turn out sour, bad so that's where I'm at tonight, depressed and feeling lonely and sad.
Today I stayed focused on work and I accomplished a lot in spite of the turmoil going on inside. I am glad the day is over and I hope to be able to sleep tonight, last night was the worst night since after Nan died so it was pretty awful.
I am blessed to have good friends and a great family and some of them have been helpful today.
I'm trying to hold onto the health routines I'm in right now and not let them slip because my personal life is in the toilet at the moment. So far I've not started eating at wrong times, kept walking the big 3 in the morning and the weight is holding pretty steady.
Through all of this I've been just crying out to God for his peace and His direction. He knows outcomes, He knows what is best but I've sure been begging Him for the outcome I desire. I know He hears and cares.
So appreciate your prayers for me and my friend.
Love
Tim
Last night after I had completed the blog or at least I think after the blog a long conversation took place and the outcome was very sad for me.
Had a rough night and today has been very depressing for me as well. Not everything goes well in life, some things just turn out sour, bad so that's where I'm at tonight, depressed and feeling lonely and sad.
Today I stayed focused on work and I accomplished a lot in spite of the turmoil going on inside. I am glad the day is over and I hope to be able to sleep tonight, last night was the worst night since after Nan died so it was pretty awful.
I am blessed to have good friends and a great family and some of them have been helpful today.
I'm trying to hold onto the health routines I'm in right now and not let them slip because my personal life is in the toilet at the moment. So far I've not started eating at wrong times, kept walking the big 3 in the morning and the weight is holding pretty steady.
Through all of this I've been just crying out to God for his peace and His direction. He knows outcomes, He knows what is best but I've sure been begging Him for the outcome I desire. I know He hears and cares.
So appreciate your prayers for me and my friend.
Love
Tim
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Follow up on Sunday night
Before I take them back to the Library in Brentwood I wanted to mention two books that I've just finished listening to.
One is called Run and is by Ann Patchett. Its a very enjoyable story that is told very well and I think helps a person to consider life in a slightly different way. I highly recommend it.
The second is Downriver, written by Will Hobbs. It too is a moving story about young people and the adventure they end up taking down a river. Well worth finding and reading.
Just wanted to pass these recommendations along to those who enjoy reading.
Tim
One is called Run and is by Ann Patchett. Its a very enjoyable story that is told very well and I think helps a person to consider life in a slightly different way. I highly recommend it.
The second is Downriver, written by Will Hobbs. It too is a moving story about young people and the adventure they end up taking down a river. Well worth finding and reading.
Just wanted to pass these recommendations along to those who enjoy reading.
Tim
Another great day
I'm finally settled in the office at home after a busy day. This morning I worked in for a bit, wrote up an appraisal that needed to be delivered and then drove to Stockton to meet Bob for the play. It was called Avenue Q. It was an adult play, some situations and words were a bit racy but the music and story line was great, the actors just knock themselves out and their musical talents are very good. This play even had a live orchestra with a few performers playing a number of instruments. All in all it was a great experience, seats were perfect and comfortable. Afterwards we went to Olive Garden for soup and salad which was perfect as usual.
Once I was free I sped to Tracy and did a field review where the dumb appraiser felt it needed to include 8, that's right 8 comparable they were all over. Now I get to take a closer look at the report and make some decisions about whether it is accurate or now.
It felt strange not to have dinner with my special friend but we need space as well as time together and today was space.
I'm looking forward to some rest tonight. Tomorrow the house keeper Tanya comes to put some polish on the house, that will be nice, its pretty much clutter free now but basic cleaning will help too.
Sending love to all and I so need your prayers for God's guidance in my life.
Tim
Once I was free I sped to Tracy and did a field review where the dumb appraiser felt it needed to include 8, that's right 8 comparable they were all over. Now I get to take a closer look at the report and make some decisions about whether it is accurate or now.
It felt strange not to have dinner with my special friend but we need space as well as time together and today was space.
I'm looking forward to some rest tonight. Tomorrow the house keeper Tanya comes to put some polish on the house, that will be nice, its pretty much clutter free now but basic cleaning will help too.
Sending love to all and I so need your prayers for God's guidance in my life.
Tim
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Busy Sabbath Day
Dear Family and Friends
Since Nikki was at twins sale at the Alameda County Fairgrounds yesterday and today I had the girls.
I picked them up this morning and we all went to church, Rod did a great sermon.
Then the girls went to Michaels and Dollar Store. We went to Olive Garden and then I delivered them to a birthday party in the park by my house. I hung around to keep them safe until 3:30 when they were done and I took them home to Steve.
Then I considered my options and opted to spend the evening with my friend. That way I knew she had a good meal and we spent time shopping at the mall. Finally I took her back home and headed home myself. Jerry, my brother, and I talked nearly the entire trip home.
Now I'm anxious to head to bed, I've very sleepy, slept poorly last night.
Tomorrow Bob and I attend a play in Stockton which should be enjoyable and then the new week hits with lots of new challenges.
Love to all
Tim
Since Nikki was at twins sale at the Alameda County Fairgrounds yesterday and today I had the girls.
I picked them up this morning and we all went to church, Rod did a great sermon.
Then the girls went to Michaels and Dollar Store. We went to Olive Garden and then I delivered them to a birthday party in the park by my house. I hung around to keep them safe until 3:30 when they were done and I took them home to Steve.
Then I considered my options and opted to spend the evening with my friend. That way I knew she had a good meal and we spent time shopping at the mall. Finally I took her back home and headed home myself. Jerry, my brother, and I talked nearly the entire trip home.
Now I'm anxious to head to bed, I've very sleepy, slept poorly last night.
Tomorrow Bob and I attend a play in Stockton which should be enjoyable and then the new week hits with lots of new challenges.
Love to all
Tim
Friday, March 7, 2014
Great great day
Good evening,
It really is, at last I enjoyed some time with a special friend and it all worked out very well, I'm thankful to a loving God that He cares for us in all ways.
This morning I walked, ate Oatmeal, wrote one of the toughest appraisals I've ever faced and then left to see two properties at 1:30. Money had arrived in the mail so I deposited that on the way out and arrived in San Ramon on time. The lady of the house turned out to be a college student daughter, looking to make her mark as a counselor. Talking with her was helpful, she is really intelligent and insightful. The home was lovely with Indian influences throughout including beautiful artwork.
The next appointment was in Pleasanton where a Pulte built was had sold for 1.5 million. It had a huge site which was perfect in every way, a stunningly beautiful pool with spa and a great interior. It turned out to be busy to measure and photograph. The seller was a gracious lady who was easy to talk to. All in all the appraisal went very well and the comps were nearby.
Then it was time to meet up with my friend and the next two hours were the best yet.
Now I'm home and ready to crash. Its been a super day, safe, sound and enjoyable.
Love
Tim
tomorrow the girls and I are coming to SS and church. Love the new arrangement so I can attend church and the sermons by our local people have been very very good and helpful. Tracy SDA is a special place that God has blessed with wonderful people.
It really is, at last I enjoyed some time with a special friend and it all worked out very well, I'm thankful to a loving God that He cares for us in all ways.
This morning I walked, ate Oatmeal, wrote one of the toughest appraisals I've ever faced and then left to see two properties at 1:30. Money had arrived in the mail so I deposited that on the way out and arrived in San Ramon on time. The lady of the house turned out to be a college student daughter, looking to make her mark as a counselor. Talking with her was helpful, she is really intelligent and insightful. The home was lovely with Indian influences throughout including beautiful artwork.
The next appointment was in Pleasanton where a Pulte built was had sold for 1.5 million. It had a huge site which was perfect in every way, a stunningly beautiful pool with spa and a great interior. It turned out to be busy to measure and photograph. The seller was a gracious lady who was easy to talk to. All in all the appraisal went very well and the comps were nearby.
Then it was time to meet up with my friend and the next two hours were the best yet.
Now I'm home and ready to crash. Its been a super day, safe, sound and enjoyable.
Love
Tim
tomorrow the girls and I are coming to SS and church. Love the new arrangement so I can attend church and the sermons by our local people have been very very good and helpful. Tracy SDA is a special place that God has blessed with wonderful people.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Great work day
Some days are just meant to be enjoyed. As I prepare to take Keanna to her musical drama class as a favor to her mother who is tagging for the twins sale this weekend. Every item has to have a bar code on it so there are some long hours involved.
I'm finishing up a really good day, walked of course in good time, lost 1/2 a pound, and inspected a beautiful ranch nearby, just could not be better, what a great place and a great high price too!
Have to have it completed by tomorrow due to the huge rush fee, $25, imagine, that's a tip, no rush fee. Anyway I'm glad to get it done. Then tomorrow afternoon I see a large home in San Ramon and follow it up with a house in Pleasanton that is selling for a cool 1.5 million. Wow.
This has been a very busy week and I've managed to fit in some personal time as well. yea to that.
Well its time to load up and give Keanna the ride she needs. Then I'll go to Starbucks and set up my computer to do some work, then bring her back home. Will be a nice break for me to get out of the house for a change today.
Sending love to all
tim
I'm finishing up a really good day, walked of course in good time, lost 1/2 a pound, and inspected a beautiful ranch nearby, just could not be better, what a great place and a great high price too!
Have to have it completed by tomorrow due to the huge rush fee, $25, imagine, that's a tip, no rush fee. Anyway I'm glad to get it done. Then tomorrow afternoon I see a large home in San Ramon and follow it up with a house in Pleasanton that is selling for a cool 1.5 million. Wow.
This has been a very busy week and I've managed to fit in some personal time as well. yea to that.
Well its time to load up and give Keanna the ride she needs. Then I'll go to Starbucks and set up my computer to do some work, then bring her back home. Will be a nice break for me to get out of the house for a change today.
Sending love to all
tim
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Quick and dirty
I'm beat, been to Scots Valley, Pittsburg, visited San Ramon and wrote two reports today plus drove hundreds of miles to get there and back.
So heading to bed now, I know you will understand.
Love to all
Tim
So heading to bed now, I know you will understand.
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
From one day to the next, moods swing
Well here I am again only this time I'm just shaking my head, in light of a very nice time last night today has been a total reversal, my friend has been having a bad day, have no idea why but can't seem to render any help. So I'm working, writing up reports and I have no small number to deal with tonight. Wow has it gotten busy again, big ones, 1.5 million in Pleasanton and of course in a rush, the agent won't call me back, a big one in Tracy, several here in Discovery Bay, today was rush over to Vallejo for a tiny little one and then back to Discovery for a big one, both nice in their own way.
So far I've been able to hold onto my new routine, walking, drinking water, eating small meals, not eating at night, last night I had a mocha at about 9 and I had a rough night, could not sleep, felt like I was awake for hours so no more mochas at night, got to learn what works and what does not work.
I had a shock yesterday. On Sunday I had made a deposit of $750 so I knew everything was good at the bank on Monday, wrong, they did not post the deposit at all so everything was upside down and I had a $100 in overdraft charges just that quick. Well this morning I found the deposit slip the ATM printed out, photographed it, send it as an attachment to my bank manager and they were nice enough to find the money after all, never admitted that they had made a mistake but reverse all the charges and I'm good again. What a shock that was. I raced home from Vallejo today hoping for a check in the mail, it was not to be and that was a disappointment.
Well I guess I'd better get back to writing reports now, trying to get one more completed this evening before I crash.
Sending love to all
Tim
So far I've been able to hold onto my new routine, walking, drinking water, eating small meals, not eating at night, last night I had a mocha at about 9 and I had a rough night, could not sleep, felt like I was awake for hours so no more mochas at night, got to learn what works and what does not work.
I had a shock yesterday. On Sunday I had made a deposit of $750 so I knew everything was good at the bank on Monday, wrong, they did not post the deposit at all so everything was upside down and I had a $100 in overdraft charges just that quick. Well this morning I found the deposit slip the ATM printed out, photographed it, send it as an attachment to my bank manager and they were nice enough to find the money after all, never admitted that they had made a mistake but reverse all the charges and I'm good again. What a shock that was. I raced home from Vallejo today hoping for a check in the mail, it was not to be and that was a disappointment.
Well I guess I'd better get back to writing reports now, trying to get one more completed this evening before I crash.
Sending love to all
Tim
Monday, March 3, 2014
Another charmed day
When you see a title like that I guess you can imagine that I was privileged to spend some time with my friend. Actually a couple hours and it was really great. I am so thankful to God for His leading and at this point I really don't the future but I sure like the present!
Pooka and I walked this morning our 3 miles, could she force us to stop even more times to smell and take a leak, breaks my stride, errr.
This morning I wrote up an appraisal and got it out just as I needed to leave for San Leandro. I inspected a nice condo with a super owner, then drove to Walnut Creek to see a very nice townhome with gentle older people who are selling and moving to a more safe environment.
Then I scooted through the rain to find some requested Kentucky Fried Chicken for my friend and some veges for me.
Now I'm home and counting my blessings for a safe day in spite of the rain and wind. God is very good isn't He?!
This afternoon as I was walking out of a rest room at the chicken place Dale called to offer me three appraisals, all in Brentwood and the check will be for $900. That certainly helps a lot with the bills.
Love to all,
I need your prayers that I will be wise as well as alive.
Tim
Pooka and I walked this morning our 3 miles, could she force us to stop even more times to smell and take a leak, breaks my stride, errr.
This morning I wrote up an appraisal and got it out just as I needed to leave for San Leandro. I inspected a nice condo with a super owner, then drove to Walnut Creek to see a very nice townhome with gentle older people who are selling and moving to a more safe environment.
Then I scooted through the rain to find some requested Kentucky Fried Chicken for my friend and some veges for me.
Now I'm home and counting my blessings for a safe day in spite of the rain and wind. God is very good isn't He?!
This afternoon as I was walking out of a rest room at the chicken place Dale called to offer me three appraisals, all in Brentwood and the check will be for $900. That certainly helps a lot with the bills.
Love to all,
I need your prayers that I will be wise as well as alive.
Tim
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Busy Sundaybut I get to see Timothy and Mia.
Well this day was like most others, walked with Pooka, found weight held at 196 in spite of popcorn at the movies last night, great news.
Saw a local place in Discovery Bay at 11, highly unusual to get to see a Discovery Bay property so it was an easy commute. Even got to include a stop at Starbucks for a decaf. Then home to do research and have lunch, Garden Burger on a single slice of double fiber toast, yum yum.
Hit the road for San Jose to take two photos, you see the appraisal is a historical one for July of 2008, the townhome has been sold to new owners so I can't inspect but I do need a photo of the front of the home so I can prove I've been there. Plus I had to talk my way through the guards at the gate. This is an exclusive development for those over 55 and the guard is monitored carefully. Finally after pleading my case I was allowed to enter promising not to bother the owners. Well I did not bother them, got my photos and then checked in with the family. Jason was home preparing for a huge test at law school, Jo was working at the school, Mia was sleeping, Jason urged me to come by and I did. We got to chat for bit and then Mia got up and played her piano loudly providing background music for our talk. Jo came home and we spent a few minutes talking about the trip. In two weeks Jo, Mia and Timothy are joining Jo's mom and aunt to fly to Malaysia to visit a grandfather who is failing fast. What an adventure for the kiddos and Jo is excited as well. Jason will stay home to hold down the fort while they travel half the way around the world. No wonder everyone is excited, now a mad scramble to get passports for the kiddos.
After a bit I left their home and found a nearby Subway where I had a vegeburger on flatbread and a salad. Excellent food and a water made it right.
Now I'm home and so thankful for yet another safe day and for work to help pay life's expenses.
Sending love to all and lets pray for a good week ahead. I hope to be at 190 soon. Found a new belt that works nicely and is smaller than the last one. Waist is shrinking fast but the gut is still with me.
Love
Tim
gut reducing ideas are welcome. email to me at discoapp@comcast.net
Saw a local place in Discovery Bay at 11, highly unusual to get to see a Discovery Bay property so it was an easy commute. Even got to include a stop at Starbucks for a decaf. Then home to do research and have lunch, Garden Burger on a single slice of double fiber toast, yum yum.
Hit the road for San Jose to take two photos, you see the appraisal is a historical one for July of 2008, the townhome has been sold to new owners so I can't inspect but I do need a photo of the front of the home so I can prove I've been there. Plus I had to talk my way through the guards at the gate. This is an exclusive development for those over 55 and the guard is monitored carefully. Finally after pleading my case I was allowed to enter promising not to bother the owners. Well I did not bother them, got my photos and then checked in with the family. Jason was home preparing for a huge test at law school, Jo was working at the school, Mia was sleeping, Jason urged me to come by and I did. We got to chat for bit and then Mia got up and played her piano loudly providing background music for our talk. Jo came home and we spent a few minutes talking about the trip. In two weeks Jo, Mia and Timothy are joining Jo's mom and aunt to fly to Malaysia to visit a grandfather who is failing fast. What an adventure for the kiddos and Jo is excited as well. Jason will stay home to hold down the fort while they travel half the way around the world. No wonder everyone is excited, now a mad scramble to get passports for the kiddos.
After a bit I left their home and found a nearby Subway where I had a vegeburger on flatbread and a salad. Excellent food and a water made it right.
Now I'm home and so thankful for yet another safe day and for work to help pay life's expenses.
Sending love to all and lets pray for a good week ahead. I hope to be at 190 soon. Found a new belt that works nicely and is smaller than the last one. Waist is shrinking fast but the gut is still with me.
Love
Tim
gut reducing ideas are welcome. email to me at discoapp@comcast.net
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Incredible day
Well its the Sabbath so of course its good.
Walked, ate, picked up Keanna, helped with leading worship with Sylvia for both services, coughed my way through but still was glad to be there helping. Bruce Gray gave the sermon and did an excellent job, really terrific thought provoking sermon that certainly worked for me. What I will remember is this, love is a choice and his bottom line was that we need to find God as love, the most important thing we can learn in life is God is love.
Afterward Keanna pleaded for food so we did Sonic today. It was fun and the food was tasty but not exactly what I eat anymore. Later in the afternoon I felt faint and my blood sugar was 111 which for me is pretty low. I had some pasta and a small glass of soy milk and then went outside to clean up an area that was desperately in need of attention. I am now through with it and it is much much better now. I'm pleased and have two huge contractor bags of yard trash to show for my work. I have the spa running but have decided to go to the movies. Tonight I'm seeing Son of God, the new movie about Jesus that so many people are talking about. It will be great to enjoy and be moved by.
I thank the good Lord for friends at church, friends here in Discovery Bay and a family that tolerates me and loves me.
Life is good, could be better but I'll have to wait for the better part if it comes.
Love to all
tim
Walked, ate, picked up Keanna, helped with leading worship with Sylvia for both services, coughed my way through but still was glad to be there helping. Bruce Gray gave the sermon and did an excellent job, really terrific thought provoking sermon that certainly worked for me. What I will remember is this, love is a choice and his bottom line was that we need to find God as love, the most important thing we can learn in life is God is love.
Afterward Keanna pleaded for food so we did Sonic today. It was fun and the food was tasty but not exactly what I eat anymore. Later in the afternoon I felt faint and my blood sugar was 111 which for me is pretty low. I had some pasta and a small glass of soy milk and then went outside to clean up an area that was desperately in need of attention. I am now through with it and it is much much better now. I'm pleased and have two huge contractor bags of yard trash to show for my work. I have the spa running but have decided to go to the movies. Tonight I'm seeing Son of God, the new movie about Jesus that so many people are talking about. It will be great to enjoy and be moved by.
I thank the good Lord for friends at church, friends here in Discovery Bay and a family that tolerates me and loves me.
Life is good, could be better but I'll have to wait for the better part if it comes.
Love to all
tim
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