So Keanna turned 11 today. She is so pleased, her friends at school gave her nice cards and things and she is at the Giants Baseball tonight with her dad. A very nice thing to do for her as she loves Baseball.
The girls came this afternoon from school after a Safeway stop for more Popsicles. Keanna worked on her homework and Kallie played. It was a happy afternoon that ended all to soon.
I've been cranking out work today but not as fast as I need to.
God is very good to all of us and sometimes He slips us a special gift that touches our hearts. I know how that feels. It feels good.
This evening I've been trying to get the paddle boats loaded in the trailer as Kallie and I drive up either Friday night late or early Sabbath morning to the campout. I know the Tracy church family enjoys the paddle boats so I try to bring them to enjoy. This time they are coming dirty as I've not had enough time to clean them properly.
Sending love to all
Tim
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Another really full day
I've been working long hours lately between seeing properties and trying to get them written up in the office.
This morning I went to Berkeley to see two little houses on one lot, then I drove to Concord to see a sale property and then I drove to Brentwood to have an alignment on the bug to save the new tires. Well 4 hours later I finally drove out. The inner t rod was so frozen in place that they could not get it apart. I finally ended up buying a new rod from the local parts store for $30 and they were then able to do the 4 wheel alignment. the car drives like a dream but my work time was mostly used up. so tomorrow becomes even more important to get stuff worked up and out the door. The girls will be coming in the afternoon and that will be nice.
So thankful for work and friends. Family is always wonderful too. Tomorrow Keanna turns 11, so hard to believe but she is sure ready for her fun time.
Love
Tim
This morning I went to Berkeley to see two little houses on one lot, then I drove to Concord to see a sale property and then I drove to Brentwood to have an alignment on the bug to save the new tires. Well 4 hours later I finally drove out. The inner t rod was so frozen in place that they could not get it apart. I finally ended up buying a new rod from the local parts store for $30 and they were then able to do the 4 wheel alignment. the car drives like a dream but my work time was mostly used up. so tomorrow becomes even more important to get stuff worked up and out the door. The girls will be coming in the afternoon and that will be nice.
So thankful for work and friends. Family is always wonderful too. Tomorrow Keanna turns 11, so hard to believe but she is sure ready for her fun time.
Love
Tim
Monday, April 28, 2014
Back
I'm told that I missed a couple nights, I was not aware of this happening as I've been pretty busy with a variety of things, many of which I'll not go into here in the blog at this time.
My life is pretty happy right now and I'm enjoying being paid for some past work and getting new orders in as well.
On Friday night as I was driving home from Stockton where I had dinner with Steve, Nikki and the girls I heard a sudden thumping noise. Slowing the car to a crawl it stopped but as soon as I sped up it was there. Turns out a part of the tire came off and was still attached at one end. Upon arrival at the tire store in Brentwood they discovered that bad alignment had cause the inner 1/2 inch of each tire to be eaten away totally. So $180 and two new tires later the problem is mostly solved. However not totally as the car now needs a wheel alignment and needed a new front t rod. So at some point tomorrow I'll get it solved and the green bug will be back on the road.
Today I drove to Vacaville to see a nice little place, great agent and pleasant experience.
Now I'm writing and will write until I drop tonight at about 10 pm.
Sorry I stopped writing, I didn't even realize I had missed. That should give you some ideal of my mental state, not bad but sorting things out but very happy in the process.
Love to all
Tim
My life is pretty happy right now and I'm enjoying being paid for some past work and getting new orders in as well.
On Friday night as I was driving home from Stockton where I had dinner with Steve, Nikki and the girls I heard a sudden thumping noise. Slowing the car to a crawl it stopped but as soon as I sped up it was there. Turns out a part of the tire came off and was still attached at one end. Upon arrival at the tire store in Brentwood they discovered that bad alignment had cause the inner 1/2 inch of each tire to be eaten away totally. So $180 and two new tires later the problem is mostly solved. However not totally as the car now needs a wheel alignment and needed a new front t rod. So at some point tomorrow I'll get it solved and the green bug will be back on the road.
Today I drove to Vacaville to see a nice little place, great agent and pleasant experience.
Now I'm writing and will write until I drop tonight at about 10 pm.
Sorry I stopped writing, I didn't even realize I had missed. That should give you some ideal of my mental state, not bad but sorting things out but very happy in the process.
Love to all
Tim
Friday, April 25, 2014
Late
I could not believe it, even leaving near to on time did not change the outcome. I was late to the graveside service for Gerry today. Talk about stress as the traffic slowed and stopped on Highway 50, lanes are being updated so traffic is jammed into a couple lanes. It was raining hard the entire trip. The family was so gracious and Dennis met me with an umbrella when I arrived. Then we proceeded and as I began to speak I looked out and noticed that Doug Bachelor and Karen were there. Well Doug is one the churches best speakers and its always a bit stressful to be speaking when someone is much more experienced in the audience. But I was there for a reason, the family had asked me to be there and I knew Gerry very well from our years of friendship. It was a great honor to be able to recount a few examples of what kind of person Gerry was. All the while I was speaking it was pouring rain, we were all huddled under a little green tent, sure was good to have it there. At the end many dropped Roses on the casket. Gerry sleeps now, his place is marked by heaven and I believe he will be raised when Jesus comes. Praise the Lord.
Afterwards we all drove to a pizza place that Gerry and Barbara loved and fellowshipped together. It was very fun.
This evening as I was driving home after having dinner with the kids at Spaghetti Factory something broke loose under the bug and is making a horrible thumping noise. I slowed to 25 mph and limped home. Tomorrow I'll figure out what happened. I think a piece of the drivers front tire has ripped off and is hitting the car, oh well it held up all day as I drove from place to place.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Afterwards we all drove to a pizza place that Gerry and Barbara loved and fellowshipped together. It was very fun.
This evening as I was driving home after having dinner with the kids at Spaghetti Factory something broke loose under the bug and is making a horrible thumping noise. I slowed to 25 mph and limped home. Tomorrow I'll figure out what happened. I think a piece of the drivers front tire has ripped off and is hitting the car, oh well it held up all day as I drove from place to place.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Long day, still working
Good evening
Up early this morning, walked with dog, breakfast as normal
Cranked out work until time to leave for Livermore at 12:30, OK home there, then onto a place in Lafayette, not so nice but still very valuable.
Then I found Starbucks for a multi grain bagel and decaf which got me all the way home. Talked with clients and friends today, that part, the friends was really great.
Tomorrow morning I leave about 9 to help with Gerry's memorial service in Lincoln which is at 11 am. Then to lunch at Gerry's favorite place and back home to write things up that are due. Perhaps I won't walk in the morning, just roll out and write up reports that are due tomorrow morning.
Life is good, friends make it rather exciting.
Love to all,
Tim
Up early this morning, walked with dog, breakfast as normal
Cranked out work until time to leave for Livermore at 12:30, OK home there, then onto a place in Lafayette, not so nice but still very valuable.
Then I found Starbucks for a multi grain bagel and decaf which got me all the way home. Talked with clients and friends today, that part, the friends was really great.
Tomorrow morning I leave about 9 to help with Gerry's memorial service in Lincoln which is at 11 am. Then to lunch at Gerry's favorite place and back home to write things up that are due. Perhaps I won't walk in the morning, just roll out and write up reports that are due tomorrow morning.
Life is good, friends make it rather exciting.
Love to all,
Tim
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Windy days of spring
Dear Family and Friends,
So the evening darkens on another day of life. Did I do anything significant today? Probably not. I've written a report for a property that is as near to perfect as one can find located in Mountain House. Over $90,000 spent in the backyard and it shows very well. It seems Safeway has been sold to a group of investors and with that happening other grocery and food distributers are involved in a the resulting shakeout of the industry. The owner of this property I'm working on is high in the food industry and had an opportunity to return to Chicago and out of this turmoil so she took it. It is doubtful if my work is really going to be needed since several offers have already come in on the property and I'm just finding a value that the owners employer would pay for the home if it did not sell. It has been a nice challenge to try to get it right. These appraisals pay well and promptly so I always love to do them. This morning a different client sent an email asking of I would consider doing a relo in Mountain House. It was interesting because that is exactly what I was doing today, writing up a relo in Mountain House. So of course I responded with an affirmative answer and I hope I'm chosen to do a future relo appraisal there.
A couple orders came in today and I'm seeing one tomorrow at 1. They are paying a rush fee and I'll need to have it completed by Friday morning before I leave for Lincoln for Gerry's graveside service. I enjoy deadlines a lot, they keep me working and focused in a manner that I don't do well without them. If I were leaving for Hawaii in two days I'd have a clear desk, yes I can do more when I'm facing a hard deadline.
I've been enjoying fresh strawberries from a little fruit stand that is located west of Discovery Bay. I've purchased food items from them for years, they are always very nice to work with and have great food. The strawberries are just amazing. They only last about 2 days as they are so fresh when purchased they won't last. But who cares, I eat them for Breakfast, lunch and dinner and can't get enough of them, so good, so special. As a little boy I grew up on a 80 acre ranch with creeks, wide open hay fields, deer and cattle, an old barn with hay to slide down. We had a huge garden area with berry plants extending as far as a little boy could see. We had raspberries, strawberries, black berries and oh they were so good. What a blessed way to grow up. So loving berries is a natural for me and so finding wonderful berries takes me back to a more innocent time.
Still battling the huge desire to eat eat. After so many months of being on time of it and losing pounds every day now its a challenge. So far I'm holding and that is good but I'm wanting to head on down to 175 while I'm in the process.
Sending love to all and especially to Barbie who has been thrust into this world of being alone day and night. Its not all bad but its sure not all good either. I will not be alone for much longer, let me just say that.
Tim
So the evening darkens on another day of life. Did I do anything significant today? Probably not. I've written a report for a property that is as near to perfect as one can find located in Mountain House. Over $90,000 spent in the backyard and it shows very well. It seems Safeway has been sold to a group of investors and with that happening other grocery and food distributers are involved in a the resulting shakeout of the industry. The owner of this property I'm working on is high in the food industry and had an opportunity to return to Chicago and out of this turmoil so she took it. It is doubtful if my work is really going to be needed since several offers have already come in on the property and I'm just finding a value that the owners employer would pay for the home if it did not sell. It has been a nice challenge to try to get it right. These appraisals pay well and promptly so I always love to do them. This morning a different client sent an email asking of I would consider doing a relo in Mountain House. It was interesting because that is exactly what I was doing today, writing up a relo in Mountain House. So of course I responded with an affirmative answer and I hope I'm chosen to do a future relo appraisal there.
A couple orders came in today and I'm seeing one tomorrow at 1. They are paying a rush fee and I'll need to have it completed by Friday morning before I leave for Lincoln for Gerry's graveside service. I enjoy deadlines a lot, they keep me working and focused in a manner that I don't do well without them. If I were leaving for Hawaii in two days I'd have a clear desk, yes I can do more when I'm facing a hard deadline.
I've been enjoying fresh strawberries from a little fruit stand that is located west of Discovery Bay. I've purchased food items from them for years, they are always very nice to work with and have great food. The strawberries are just amazing. They only last about 2 days as they are so fresh when purchased they won't last. But who cares, I eat them for Breakfast, lunch and dinner and can't get enough of them, so good, so special. As a little boy I grew up on a 80 acre ranch with creeks, wide open hay fields, deer and cattle, an old barn with hay to slide down. We had a huge garden area with berry plants extending as far as a little boy could see. We had raspberries, strawberries, black berries and oh they were so good. What a blessed way to grow up. So loving berries is a natural for me and so finding wonderful berries takes me back to a more innocent time.
Still battling the huge desire to eat eat. After so many months of being on time of it and losing pounds every day now its a challenge. So far I'm holding and that is good but I'm wanting to head on down to 175 while I'm in the process.
Sending love to all and especially to Barbie who has been thrust into this world of being alone day and night. Its not all bad but its sure not all good either. I will not be alone for much longer, let me just say that.
Tim
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Windy days of spring
And then the allergies hit!
Some of us tend to dread spring, the winds, the flowers, the fruit trees because along with all of this comes the dreaded allergies. For the last two days I've been hit pretty hard and so I rely on these little tabs that dissolved on your tongue. But I think they effect me pretty badly, sleepy at first and then just sort of a downer on the day. Something has turned my appetite on lately and its been very hard to stop eating. I want to get down to 175 before I level off and right now I'm around 190 and moving up and down around that number. I don't want to stop here but somehow I've got to stop eating so much. Yikes, I don't want to slip back.
This morning I drove out to Castro Valley and inspected a home where a dear lady died recently and now her reverse mortgage is being called. So I get called to determine how much the place is worth. This time the daughter was really nice, last time the person would not even let me make an appointment so we did a driveby only. Bad move by the children as an on site would probably have been a higher value, good for them equity wise I think.
While I was there I found the Starbucks, once again I was so pleased with the courtesy and kindness shown to me by the workers. They are really amazing in almost every case. Kind and thoughtful once again, clean bathrooms, a very good organization in my opinion. One of the best on the scene today. I just walk in and pay with my phone, I get decaffeinated coffee with room for sweetener and cream. It lasts for a couple hours in the console of my bug sitting in its little designated place and I sip when I think of it.
These days I'm listening to Who Killed Kennedy by Bill O'Reilly. It is an amazing book, well paced, solid information and background on all the characters in his life at the time. I'm loving it and will enjoy getting the other O'Reilly books to listen to. I've been enjoying the last few books to much, ones from the library. This one was a gift from someone, not sure who but I want to thank them right here. My last book was by the creator of the Gong Show. Turns out he was also a hit man for the CIA while he was producing this show and many others. Its a great read.
I've been working this afternoon trying to stay in my chair. Just now I finally got another one out the door and need to get one done in the morning before the girls come at 1:15 tomorrow afternoon. I'm thrilled to have work and even more thrilled to get checks in the mail.
Last night the wind whipped through the bedroom in the slider door and out the window. In a vain attempt to lose weight I tend to sleep with very light covers but last night was too cold but I never woke up enough to grab a second blanket so I was just cold all night, tonight is once again cold and this time I'll have a second blanket, no use freezing all night. I tell you it is my intention not to be sleeping alone for much longer. I'm fed up with the world passing along, everyone else seems to have someone and I'm alone. This is going to change and of course I'm going to accept God's timing as He knows what is best.
So I'm sending love to all tonight. Please remember Barbie and the boys as they cope without Gerry. This Friday we'll do a graveside service at 11 and I hope to be able to return the favor that has been granted to me of knowing Gerry for all these many years.
What a guy he was! I've included a photo of the two of us taken on that last Sunday when we visited and Barbie and Marilyn fed us all such a great lunch.
Good night all,
Tim
Some of us tend to dread spring, the winds, the flowers, the fruit trees because along with all of this comes the dreaded allergies. For the last two days I've been hit pretty hard and so I rely on these little tabs that dissolved on your tongue. But I think they effect me pretty badly, sleepy at first and then just sort of a downer on the day. Something has turned my appetite on lately and its been very hard to stop eating. I want to get down to 175 before I level off and right now I'm around 190 and moving up and down around that number. I don't want to stop here but somehow I've got to stop eating so much. Yikes, I don't want to slip back.
This morning I drove out to Castro Valley and inspected a home where a dear lady died recently and now her reverse mortgage is being called. So I get called to determine how much the place is worth. This time the daughter was really nice, last time the person would not even let me make an appointment so we did a driveby only. Bad move by the children as an on site would probably have been a higher value, good for them equity wise I think.
While I was there I found the Starbucks, once again I was so pleased with the courtesy and kindness shown to me by the workers. They are really amazing in almost every case. Kind and thoughtful once again, clean bathrooms, a very good organization in my opinion. One of the best on the scene today. I just walk in and pay with my phone, I get decaffeinated coffee with room for sweetener and cream. It lasts for a couple hours in the console of my bug sitting in its little designated place and I sip when I think of it.
These days I'm listening to Who Killed Kennedy by Bill O'Reilly. It is an amazing book, well paced, solid information and background on all the characters in his life at the time. I'm loving it and will enjoy getting the other O'Reilly books to listen to. I've been enjoying the last few books to much, ones from the library. This one was a gift from someone, not sure who but I want to thank them right here. My last book was by the creator of the Gong Show. Turns out he was also a hit man for the CIA while he was producing this show and many others. Its a great read.
I've been working this afternoon trying to stay in my chair. Just now I finally got another one out the door and need to get one done in the morning before the girls come at 1:15 tomorrow afternoon. I'm thrilled to have work and even more thrilled to get checks in the mail.
Last night the wind whipped through the bedroom in the slider door and out the window. In a vain attempt to lose weight I tend to sleep with very light covers but last night was too cold but I never woke up enough to grab a second blanket so I was just cold all night, tonight is once again cold and this time I'll have a second blanket, no use freezing all night. I tell you it is my intention not to be sleeping alone for much longer. I'm fed up with the world passing along, everyone else seems to have someone and I'm alone. This is going to change and of course I'm going to accept God's timing as He knows what is best.
So I'm sending love to all tonight. Please remember Barbie and the boys as they cope without Gerry. This Friday we'll do a graveside service at 11 and I hope to be able to return the favor that has been granted to me of knowing Gerry for all these many years.
What a guy he was! I've included a photo of the two of us taken on that last Sunday when we visited and Barbie and Marilyn fed us all such a great lunch.
Good night all,
Tim
Monday, April 21, 2014
Successful day
Dear Family and Friends,
Just back from BJs where I found a baked potato filled with steamed veges along with Bisque Tomato soup. Great meal.
Up at 6:30 today walking, I moved it earlier because I'm always away then anyway. Since I lost weight and eat better I sleep shorter nights.
I've pretty much worked in the office all day with the exception of going to see a newly completed home at 5:30. 2900 sf on all one level. Its big and pretty nice I guess for $569,000. Tiny lot though.
Today was a cheer up day as many dollars came in the mail. Enough to head off an impending disaster at the bank when the tax checks hit. Thank you Lord for the money.
There are very few orders out there right now. I sure wish I could snag a few more of them but I'm still busy getting totally caught up and will see something tomorrow morning at 11 am. I'm thankful for what I have.
Sending love to all this evening,
Tim
Just back from BJs where I found a baked potato filled with steamed veges along with Bisque Tomato soup. Great meal.
Up at 6:30 today walking, I moved it earlier because I'm always away then anyway. Since I lost weight and eat better I sleep shorter nights.
I've pretty much worked in the office all day with the exception of going to see a newly completed home at 5:30. 2900 sf on all one level. Its big and pretty nice I guess for $569,000. Tiny lot though.
Today was a cheer up day as many dollars came in the mail. Enough to head off an impending disaster at the bank when the tax checks hit. Thank you Lord for the money.
There are very few orders out there right now. I sure wish I could snag a few more of them but I'm still busy getting totally caught up and will see something tomorrow morning at 11 am. I'm thankful for what I have.
Sending love to all this evening,
Tim
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Good evening
Dear Family and Friends,
As I write this evening I'm tired, tired of looking at this screen, tired of writing reports and so very tired of always being alone. I know many of you are alone and some of you just relish it, like the best thing ever. Well I did not feel that way when Nan left me and I don't feel any better about it now. Its like a forced jail sentence imposed for who knows what reason. So I'm in this big house with lots of space and I take up a tiny part of it for my activities.
So goes life. In a few minutes I'm heading out to sit in the spa. My neck hurts a lot as a result of sleeping wrong last night. I'm hoping the spa will help a bit.
Just had a nice talk with my brother, always enjoyable to chat with someone you feel safe with.
Its been an ok day. Sure wrestling with the desire to eat all the time. I've lost my inspiration to be slim and now its in the hard part, just sticking with the plan even though the future looks different.
As always need your prayers and I know Barb, Dennis and Michael would appreciate your prayers in their behalf as they cope with losing Gerry. I'll go up this Friday to help with the graveside service, its a honor to be able to do this for Gerry and the family.
Sending love to all tonight,
Tim
As I write this evening I'm tired, tired of looking at this screen, tired of writing reports and so very tired of always being alone. I know many of you are alone and some of you just relish it, like the best thing ever. Well I did not feel that way when Nan left me and I don't feel any better about it now. Its like a forced jail sentence imposed for who knows what reason. So I'm in this big house with lots of space and I take up a tiny part of it for my activities.
So goes life. In a few minutes I'm heading out to sit in the spa. My neck hurts a lot as a result of sleeping wrong last night. I'm hoping the spa will help a bit.
Just had a nice talk with my brother, always enjoyable to chat with someone you feel safe with.
Its been an ok day. Sure wrestling with the desire to eat all the time. I've lost my inspiration to be slim and now its in the hard part, just sticking with the plan even though the future looks different.
As always need your prayers and I know Barb, Dennis and Michael would appreciate your prayers in their behalf as they cope with losing Gerry. I'll go up this Friday to help with the graveside service, its a honor to be able to do this for Gerry and the family.
Sending love to all tonight,
Tim
Saturday, April 19, 2014
A very full day
7 walk fast around the lake with Pooka - hard work
10 watch Kallie search for Easter eggs at the new community center - fun work
spend time with Nikki, Kallie and Keanna at the park
11 leave for Napa
1 arrive at Dolly and Ken's home in Napa
1:30 have lunch at the Red Grape in Sonoma - salad and soup Yummy
2:00 visit with Dolly's friend who is currently mostly paralyzed after a surgery on his spine
learned so much as he spoke about his life and interests. spent a couple hours there and experienced meeting a great guy who is facing tough times with courage
5:30 arrive back and Dolly and Ken's after a nice drive through the vineyards and beautiful Napa country side. She knows all the back roads well and is a super driver.
6:00 had dinner with Ken and Dolly at the Black Bear, great food
7:30 stop for brief visit with Jessy as I was traveling through Benicia, great to see her
9:00 arrive home tired and very satisfied with the day, Thank you Lord
Love to all
Tim
10 watch Kallie search for Easter eggs at the new community center - fun work
spend time with Nikki, Kallie and Keanna at the park
11 leave for Napa
1 arrive at Dolly and Ken's home in Napa
1:30 have lunch at the Red Grape in Sonoma - salad and soup Yummy
2:00 visit with Dolly's friend who is currently mostly paralyzed after a surgery on his spine
learned so much as he spoke about his life and interests. spent a couple hours there and experienced meeting a great guy who is facing tough times with courage
5:30 arrive back and Dolly and Ken's after a nice drive through the vineyards and beautiful Napa country side. She knows all the back roads well and is a super driver.
6:00 had dinner with Ken and Dolly at the Black Bear, great food
7:30 stop for brief visit with Jessy as I was traveling through Benicia, great to see her
9:00 arrive home tired and very satisfied with the day, Thank you Lord
Love to all
Tim
Friday, April 18, 2014
Evening
Interesting day to be sure.
An email from Marilyn Bitzer alerted me to the Gerry passing away. That sort of set the tenor of the day, losing one of your best friends is never easy or fully understandable. My thoughts went to Barbie, faithful wife for 57 years. Can you imagine that, 57 years.
As the day progressed I worked on the motorhome for hours thinking that renters were coming this evening to check it out. They cancelled late this afternoon so I lost the $1100 rental that I was hoping for. But it does mean I can attend the church campout at Lake McSween as I had planned for. Otherwise I was not going to be able to enjoy the church campout that I've attended for years. This way I can bring the paddle boats that they kids enjoy so much at the lake.
This evening I was at Olive Garden and not thinking ordered the wrong food. I had planned to order the eggplant parm but I opened my mouth and ordered Fettichini Alfredo, a food I never let myself have due to the fat and carbs it contains. Oh well it was great to feast on that and salad. I know I spelled it wrong, so wrong that the spell check can't find the correct spelling.
Now its bed time.
Love to all and special prayers for Barbie and family this evening. Our graveside service will be next Friday and I'll be helping with that service. Its not set in yet with me that Gerry is actually no longer with us. He has always been there since Nan and I came to Central church so many years ago. Gerry is a fixture in time and will always be treasured as a real individual.
Love
Tim
An email from Marilyn Bitzer alerted me to the Gerry passing away. That sort of set the tenor of the day, losing one of your best friends is never easy or fully understandable. My thoughts went to Barbie, faithful wife for 57 years. Can you imagine that, 57 years.
As the day progressed I worked on the motorhome for hours thinking that renters were coming this evening to check it out. They cancelled late this afternoon so I lost the $1100 rental that I was hoping for. But it does mean I can attend the church campout at Lake McSween as I had planned for. Otherwise I was not going to be able to enjoy the church campout that I've attended for years. This way I can bring the paddle boats that they kids enjoy so much at the lake.
This evening I was at Olive Garden and not thinking ordered the wrong food. I had planned to order the eggplant parm but I opened my mouth and ordered Fettichini Alfredo, a food I never let myself have due to the fat and carbs it contains. Oh well it was great to feast on that and salad. I know I spelled it wrong, so wrong that the spell check can't find the correct spelling.
Now its bed time.
Love to all and special prayers for Barbie and family this evening. Our graveside service will be next Friday and I'll be helping with that service. Its not set in yet with me that Gerry is actually no longer with us. He has always been there since Nan and I came to Central church so many years ago. Gerry is a fixture in time and will always be treasured as a real individual.
Love
Tim
We have lost a great man, Gerry Lammerding
Not sure how many of you knew Gerry, those who did will mourn his passing last night. Gerry was unique, loved airplanes, cars, people, eating, laughing, helping with plans for construction, the Reno air races, his cabin, his motorcycles and fun in general.
Barbie has been such an excellent to a man that could be a little difficult at times. Born of German stock this guy was something else. For years he was a building inspector for the county and as such traveled all over looking hard at places being constructed or remodeled. His travels including the top of the TV tower seen in the distance as one traveled south out of Sacramento. Somehow he talked his way to the top of the tower, not something I would ever want to do. I remember being the back seat when he was learning to fly and I took a video of the experience. Gerry was always child like in his love for adventure and fun. I see him in Hawaii on little scooters he insisted we rent. I held out for days but Gerry was pretty good at selling an idea. So we ended up putting along beside a highway for hours on our little scooters. It was a great day. And there was that day beside the pool on a cruise ship when somehow he decided the social director needed to be thrown into the pool. Oh yes Gerry was a character bigger than normal life.
There was a day, the day before he was to have hernia surgery, when we rented a post hole digger that took two of us to operate and we dug holes for the piers for my new deck. By evening we were both so tired we could hardly move and the next day he has his surgery. Amazing really.
Gerry loved things in order so when he came to visit and my garage was a huge mess he spent the day and that night we could park cars in it again. He designed the second story when I was building the home I'm in now, he designed the deck shade covers and then came to help build them.
When Nan was ill Gerry and Barb would come for a few days to help. They were wonderful in all that they did to cheer Nan up. Gerry always cheered Nan up by his antics and comments, what a great bigger than life guy he was. Not always easy to be with, he sometimes would just push too hard but his motives were always good. He just loved to live and wanted everyone else to live life big too.
Will I miss him? Oh yes and so much. He is one of those people who can't think about without smiling, Jesus had his work cut out when he made Gerry and I think He is pleased with the life of family, service, dedication that Gerry lived. God bless Gerry Lammerding. He has finished his work and we bid him a teary good bye.
In the second coming Gerry will be the one beside Jesus urging him to try something new or telling him about a new airplane that is just coming out. He will be Gerry for eternity.
In Christ,
Tim
Barbie has been such an excellent to a man that could be a little difficult at times. Born of German stock this guy was something else. For years he was a building inspector for the county and as such traveled all over looking hard at places being constructed or remodeled. His travels including the top of the TV tower seen in the distance as one traveled south out of Sacramento. Somehow he talked his way to the top of the tower, not something I would ever want to do. I remember being the back seat when he was learning to fly and I took a video of the experience. Gerry was always child like in his love for adventure and fun. I see him in Hawaii on little scooters he insisted we rent. I held out for days but Gerry was pretty good at selling an idea. So we ended up putting along beside a highway for hours on our little scooters. It was a great day. And there was that day beside the pool on a cruise ship when somehow he decided the social director needed to be thrown into the pool. Oh yes Gerry was a character bigger than normal life.
There was a day, the day before he was to have hernia surgery, when we rented a post hole digger that took two of us to operate and we dug holes for the piers for my new deck. By evening we were both so tired we could hardly move and the next day he has his surgery. Amazing really.
Gerry loved things in order so when he came to visit and my garage was a huge mess he spent the day and that night we could park cars in it again. He designed the second story when I was building the home I'm in now, he designed the deck shade covers and then came to help build them.
When Nan was ill Gerry and Barb would come for a few days to help. They were wonderful in all that they did to cheer Nan up. Gerry always cheered Nan up by his antics and comments, what a great bigger than life guy he was. Not always easy to be with, he sometimes would just push too hard but his motives were always good. He just loved to live and wanted everyone else to live life big too.
Will I miss him? Oh yes and so much. He is one of those people who can't think about without smiling, Jesus had his work cut out when he made Gerry and I think He is pleased with the life of family, service, dedication that Gerry lived. God bless Gerry Lammerding. He has finished his work and we bid him a teary good bye.
In the second coming Gerry will be the one beside Jesus urging him to try something new or telling him about a new airplane that is just coming out. He will be Gerry for eternity.
In Christ,
Tim
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Plugging along
Up early to walk early this morning.
Then to the hospital for labs, results are not all in yet but they look pretty good so far.
Eye examine for results of diabetes, no problems found
Finally lunch, salad at the café at the hospital, so ready after a 12 hour fast. Tasted extra good.
Then see a home in Antioch, then go home for office work, then drive to Livermore to see a property, the dinner at Subway, flatbread with garden burger, yum.
Now home, computer slow, Jim works on it and it now flies again.
Now bed time.
Love to all
Tim
Then to the hospital for labs, results are not all in yet but they look pretty good so far.
Eye examine for results of diabetes, no problems found
Finally lunch, salad at the café at the hospital, so ready after a 12 hour fast. Tasted extra good.
Then see a home in Antioch, then go home for office work, then drive to Livermore to see a property, the dinner at Subway, flatbread with garden burger, yum.
Now home, computer slow, Jim works on it and it now flies again.
Now bed time.
Love to all
Tim
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Struggling right now
Good evening,
After a recent change in my social situation I've been finding it very hard to be motivated to not eat, to stick with the program that got me down 40 pounds. I seem to be hungry all the time and frankly I'm sort of depressed. God has given me work to do and I've been doing it aggressively. yesterday two orders came in and I saw them both in the day. Today I've seen been to two appraisals, one in Tracy and then next in Concord. That order came in last night and I've not only seen the property but come home and with the kiddos cooperation I've written the report and it is in the hands of the lender. They paid a rush fee and got a rush report.
This afternoon the girls came to visit and we first went to McDonalds since they were hungry, then we traveled home where I worked and they did their homework and played. This evening I took Kallie to the local community center for her swim meet, met Nikki there and she took Keanna to meet the teachers at middle school. Yes we are getting close to Middle School. I just can't believe it already. Kallie is here watching TV right now and Nikki will pick them up pretty soon. I hope that we go out to eat.
After weeks of spending nearly every day with someone special to no longer do that takes some getting used to. I've met a wonderful woman who just happens to live on the other side of the world but chatting with her has been very rewarding. I just hate facing everything alone all the time, wears a person down.
The weather is very warm here today, in the 80s and the sun feels good, pretty sure I'll have some color after the afternoon at the pool with Kallie and Nikki. I'm ready for color, for sun, for boating, for living again.
I'm writing early tonight because I'm putting off doing the next appraisal. Yet if I want the checks to arrive on time I need to do the work.
So asking once again for your prayers as my mind moves forward. God grant me wisdom.
Love
Tim
After a recent change in my social situation I've been finding it very hard to be motivated to not eat, to stick with the program that got me down 40 pounds. I seem to be hungry all the time and frankly I'm sort of depressed. God has given me work to do and I've been doing it aggressively. yesterday two orders came in and I saw them both in the day. Today I've seen been to two appraisals, one in Tracy and then next in Concord. That order came in last night and I've not only seen the property but come home and with the kiddos cooperation I've written the report and it is in the hands of the lender. They paid a rush fee and got a rush report.
This afternoon the girls came to visit and we first went to McDonalds since they were hungry, then we traveled home where I worked and they did their homework and played. This evening I took Kallie to the local community center for her swim meet, met Nikki there and she took Keanna to meet the teachers at middle school. Yes we are getting close to Middle School. I just can't believe it already. Kallie is here watching TV right now and Nikki will pick them up pretty soon. I hope that we go out to eat.
After weeks of spending nearly every day with someone special to no longer do that takes some getting used to. I've met a wonderful woman who just happens to live on the other side of the world but chatting with her has been very rewarding. I just hate facing everything alone all the time, wears a person down.
The weather is very warm here today, in the 80s and the sun feels good, pretty sure I'll have some color after the afternoon at the pool with Kallie and Nikki. I'm ready for color, for sun, for boating, for living again.
I'm writing early tonight because I'm putting off doing the next appraisal. Yet if I want the checks to arrive on time I need to do the work.
So asking once again for your prayers as my mind moves forward. God grant me wisdom.
Love
Tim
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Orders/ tax day/ inspections.......
But still no money in the mail, bummer. Sure do need it right now.
Walked, ate, worked, orders came in, made appointments, saw them, one in San Ramon and the other in Mountain House. Nice people, enjoyable day.
Now bone tired, ready to sleep, work suddenly piling up, love it, money will be coming!
So glad for my friends to talk to about all that is happening in my life, lots of exciting stuff, to hot to publish but keeps me busy to be sure.
I can sure tell you this, when there are lots of challenges in life it drives one to God, where peace and answers flow.
My letter from the IRs was not an audit, I was so relieved over that one, the wire transfer with money from France for a summer motorhome rental arrived today. We have been working on that for weeks.
thanks for hanging in with me my blog friends and family. In time all will be evident.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Walked, ate, worked, orders came in, made appointments, saw them, one in San Ramon and the other in Mountain House. Nice people, enjoyable day.
Now bone tired, ready to sleep, work suddenly piling up, love it, money will be coming!
So glad for my friends to talk to about all that is happening in my life, lots of exciting stuff, to hot to publish but keeps me busy to be sure.
I can sure tell you this, when there are lots of challenges in life it drives one to God, where peace and answers flow.
My letter from the IRs was not an audit, I was so relieved over that one, the wire transfer with money from France for a summer motorhome rental arrived today. We have been working on that for weeks.
thanks for hanging in with me my blog friends and family. In time all will be evident.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Monday, April 14, 2014
Busy time
Good evening,
Well Jim worked on the computer for nearly 4 hours last night, took out many bad guys and yet this morning it still had a problem. I rose early to begin my work, at 6 and skipped the walk today, first day in 4 months but I settled in to crank out work. I had a friend call from Malaysia at 6 am and that was a great way to wake up. But as the morning passed the computer failed again, I could not get access to do a sketch. Finally the IT guys at the software company took over the computer and found the solution. I was able to complete that one before I had to leave for personal business.
I had a wonderful afternoon and even traffic coming home cooperated. I picked up a check in Brentwood for the appraisal I did first this morning and came home to get out of the nice clothes and into shorts, the office is hot this evening. Now I'm about to begin again on writing up reports that are due to the clients.
I've been having a fairly stressful time for the last couple days, gradually it is getting better but I've sure been seeking God's guidance and help a lot. Oh that I knew His intentions for me and for my future. So tired of being alone but not finding it that easy to change that circumstance. Oh well, others have been alone, some even love it. Not me.
As always I ask for your prayers that I will be guided to do what is right and caring for others.
Love to all
Tim
Well Jim worked on the computer for nearly 4 hours last night, took out many bad guys and yet this morning it still had a problem. I rose early to begin my work, at 6 and skipped the walk today, first day in 4 months but I settled in to crank out work. I had a friend call from Malaysia at 6 am and that was a great way to wake up. But as the morning passed the computer failed again, I could not get access to do a sketch. Finally the IT guys at the software company took over the computer and found the solution. I was able to complete that one before I had to leave for personal business.
I had a wonderful afternoon and even traffic coming home cooperated. I picked up a check in Brentwood for the appraisal I did first this morning and came home to get out of the nice clothes and into shorts, the office is hot this evening. Now I'm about to begin again on writing up reports that are due to the clients.
I've been having a fairly stressful time for the last couple days, gradually it is getting better but I've sure been seeking God's guidance and help a lot. Oh that I knew His intentions for me and for my future. So tired of being alone but not finding it that easy to change that circumstance. Oh well, others have been alone, some even love it. Not me.
As always I ask for your prayers that I will be guided to do what is right and caring for others.
Love to all
Tim
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Very exciting times
This has been a really good day. There is much that I can't discuss at this time, lots of very interesting things happening in my life and it will all become clear in the future. God is really leading in some exciting ways and that includes tomorrow afternoon.
This morning I took time to reenter the appraisal that I lost on Friday afternoon. I am getting paid $300 for this report and I've spent about 8 hours on it. I sure hope they like it, it has 9 comps when 6 are normal, I've been back a second time to take more photos and i've lost it in the computer and had to start over. I certainly do know this property by now.
This afternoon I inspected three properties. The first was a huge home in Brentwood, the people could not have been nicer, a great family with 3 kiddos. Then the second one was in Lathrop in an area that I had not worked before. Huge homes and right out where it used to flood, yikes I'd think twice about living there. Then back to Antioch to see a home on a driveby basis for an estate.
My computer has stopped working, Jim the trusty IT guy has been working by remote for hours on getting it cleaned up. There were viruses on viruses in it and he is still pulling them out one by one and killing them. Its ugly and the reports I was supposed to have written tonight did not happen at all. So it looks like an early morning once he gets it done. He is pretty good at what he does, how many people would work on Sunday night to help a friend? He is appreciated very much. Of course I'll pay him but still what he is doing is keeping me working.
Lets hope we all have a good week coming up. I got my yard sprinklers working again, funny how a couple new batteries help out.
Sending love to all, I'm on the little laptop right now and it feels really funny to be working on.
Tim
This morning I took time to reenter the appraisal that I lost on Friday afternoon. I am getting paid $300 for this report and I've spent about 8 hours on it. I sure hope they like it, it has 9 comps when 6 are normal, I've been back a second time to take more photos and i've lost it in the computer and had to start over. I certainly do know this property by now.
This afternoon I inspected three properties. The first was a huge home in Brentwood, the people could not have been nicer, a great family with 3 kiddos. Then the second one was in Lathrop in an area that I had not worked before. Huge homes and right out where it used to flood, yikes I'd think twice about living there. Then back to Antioch to see a home on a driveby basis for an estate.
My computer has stopped working, Jim the trusty IT guy has been working by remote for hours on getting it cleaned up. There were viruses on viruses in it and he is still pulling them out one by one and killing them. Its ugly and the reports I was supposed to have written tonight did not happen at all. So it looks like an early morning once he gets it done. He is pretty good at what he does, how many people would work on Sunday night to help a friend? He is appreciated very much. Of course I'll pay him but still what he is doing is keeping me working.
Lets hope we all have a good week coming up. I got my yard sprinklers working again, funny how a couple new batteries help out.
Sending love to all, I'm on the little laptop right now and it feels really funny to be working on.
Tim
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Calm day
Good evening,
Today I played the piano in the kindergarten department in Tracy. Rachael does such a nice job teaching, has so much energy and kindness so it was fun to play and sing along with the little songs. Then we served a snack and it was over. I had just settled into the worship service when Jason contacted me and thought we should have lunch in Pleasanton. So we ended up at a place called Blossom Vegan for lunch. The food was great and it was so nice to see the kiddos and get their little hugs.
After we finished eating we found a park where the kids could plan and we could talk. Jo and the kiddos really enjoyed their trip to Malaysia but are glad to be home again. It was so nice to see them all and catch up again. They do not have an easy life right now with Jason deep in his law school and Jo teaching a full room of children. I'll be so glad when Jason completes his studies, passes the bar and can begin to built a career.
Kallie started T Ball this morning here in Discovery Bay. I can't wait to see her in action. I am so blessed with these great kiddos and solid parents who are doing everything they can to raise good kids. Its the greatest blessing a person could hope for.
Tomorrow is Sunday but I'm actually busy out seeing properties tomorrow, one in Antioch, one in Brentwood and then one in Lathrop and of the three two have to be delivered on Monday. Busy again for at least a day. I'm so thankful for life and for the chance to experience each day, my prayer is that I can help someone during the day in some way, either by listening or encouraging or just smiling and in some cases just not running them off the road when they drive poorly or selfishly.
This evening I trimmed, mowed, fed my lawn and then got the sprinklers working, well I hope I got them working, understanding the controls for a sprinkler system is never easy and mine had dead batteries which did not help, I'm not sure I have it on even now.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Today I played the piano in the kindergarten department in Tracy. Rachael does such a nice job teaching, has so much energy and kindness so it was fun to play and sing along with the little songs. Then we served a snack and it was over. I had just settled into the worship service when Jason contacted me and thought we should have lunch in Pleasanton. So we ended up at a place called Blossom Vegan for lunch. The food was great and it was so nice to see the kiddos and get their little hugs.
After we finished eating we found a park where the kids could plan and we could talk. Jo and the kiddos really enjoyed their trip to Malaysia but are glad to be home again. It was so nice to see them all and catch up again. They do not have an easy life right now with Jason deep in his law school and Jo teaching a full room of children. I'll be so glad when Jason completes his studies, passes the bar and can begin to built a career.
Kallie started T Ball this morning here in Discovery Bay. I can't wait to see her in action. I am so blessed with these great kiddos and solid parents who are doing everything they can to raise good kids. Its the greatest blessing a person could hope for.
Tomorrow is Sunday but I'm actually busy out seeing properties tomorrow, one in Antioch, one in Brentwood and then one in Lathrop and of the three two have to be delivered on Monday. Busy again for at least a day. I'm so thankful for life and for the chance to experience each day, my prayer is that I can help someone during the day in some way, either by listening or encouraging or just smiling and in some cases just not running them off the road when they drive poorly or selfishly.
This evening I trimmed, mowed, fed my lawn and then got the sprinklers working, well I hope I got them working, understanding the controls for a sprinkler system is never easy and mine had dead batteries which did not help, I'm not sure I have it on even now.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Friday, April 11, 2014
Another week behind us
Well is God good or what? If we could only get the hang of loving like God loves us. Recently when I listened to the Shack, an excellent book, I was forced to think about the reality of God's love in ways I had never considered before. I really need to listen again because the author of the novel may not have gotten everything right he certainly said things that make one think. There is a lot about God's love and the problems we face when we try to judge each other.
This week has been a challenge because I've been out of contact with my special friend. However God has led me through the week and I'm expanding my horizons and enjoying life very much. While I could sure use more work, its slow and slow means little money coming in yet life is good overall. I've not lost more weight but I've not gained a lot either. Still walking my big three in the mornings and trying to eat carefully.
I had a disappointing work day today. I struggled with a tough property most of the day only to lose the entire appraisal out of the computer this afternoon. So I'll have to reenter much of the data which is never fun. I was very angry at the time it happened. I was at the point where I write the summary and ship the report when something happened, it did not save and only the first 1/3 of the report is intact. Come Monday morning I'll be on the phone to the software designers, good people and working hard and get this solved. There is an auto save function but twice recently it has failed. I want to know why.
I'm thankful for life, thankful that Connie is back at home with Art, she has been undergoing some tests and in the hospital for a few days. I'm thankful that my brother has finished the new leach line for his septic tank and he can now take it easy for a few days. I'm thankful that Pooka got her grooming and that hair is no longer flying through the house. There are always many things to be thankful for if we stop and consider.
Sending love to all, Kallie starts baseball in the morning but I've promised to be at Sabbath School to help play for the little people so I guess I'll be there.
Tim
This week has been a challenge because I've been out of contact with my special friend. However God has led me through the week and I'm expanding my horizons and enjoying life very much. While I could sure use more work, its slow and slow means little money coming in yet life is good overall. I've not lost more weight but I've not gained a lot either. Still walking my big three in the mornings and trying to eat carefully.
I had a disappointing work day today. I struggled with a tough property most of the day only to lose the entire appraisal out of the computer this afternoon. So I'll have to reenter much of the data which is never fun. I was very angry at the time it happened. I was at the point where I write the summary and ship the report when something happened, it did not save and only the first 1/3 of the report is intact. Come Monday morning I'll be on the phone to the software designers, good people and working hard and get this solved. There is an auto save function but twice recently it has failed. I want to know why.
I'm thankful for life, thankful that Connie is back at home with Art, she has been undergoing some tests and in the hospital for a few days. I'm thankful that my brother has finished the new leach line for his septic tank and he can now take it easy for a few days. I'm thankful that Pooka got her grooming and that hair is no longer flying through the house. There are always many things to be thankful for if we stop and consider.
Sending love to all, Kallie starts baseball in the morning but I've promised to be at Sabbath School to help play for the little people so I guess I'll be there.
Tim
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Warm day
Good evening,
Well its been a busy day. This morning Kallie knocked at about 6:30 but I was awake and ready to ride the treadmill. Once I was through she rode a few steps too. We made waffles for breakfast and then it was off to school with her.
Then I drove to East County European Auto Repair where the guys put on a new timing belt, mine was worn but not ready to fail yet, new water pump and all the rest of the goodies. $1075 later it runs fine and I'm broke for sure.
Then I drove to San Leandro to see a home that I inspected last fall. The 81 year old Asian lady is so precious and spunky, just a great visit always. Once I was through then I drove to Fremont to shoot additional photos for a different appraisal, found Olive Garden and soup and salad. Then I drove home to pay for the VW repairs and drove home hoping to find a pile of money in the mail. The answer was NOT TODAY. The dog groomer came at 4 pm and Pooka looks like a different dog, what a mess she was and the groomer earned her money this time.
Then I needed to get the car back from town so coaxed Ray and Lois to dinner at Burger King and they brought home the extra car. Lettuce and tomato, vegeburger patty, side salad and water, so good.
This evening I've been playing on the computer a bit and now its bed time as I'm pretty tired. I keep waking up with different things going through my mind about my friend. Will be so glad to see her again.
Sending love to all
Tim
Well its been a busy day. This morning Kallie knocked at about 6:30 but I was awake and ready to ride the treadmill. Once I was through she rode a few steps too. We made waffles for breakfast and then it was off to school with her.
Then I drove to East County European Auto Repair where the guys put on a new timing belt, mine was worn but not ready to fail yet, new water pump and all the rest of the goodies. $1075 later it runs fine and I'm broke for sure.
Then I drove to San Leandro to see a home that I inspected last fall. The 81 year old Asian lady is so precious and spunky, just a great visit always. Once I was through then I drove to Fremont to shoot additional photos for a different appraisal, found Olive Garden and soup and salad. Then I drove home to pay for the VW repairs and drove home hoping to find a pile of money in the mail. The answer was NOT TODAY. The dog groomer came at 4 pm and Pooka looks like a different dog, what a mess she was and the groomer earned her money this time.
Then I needed to get the car back from town so coaxed Ray and Lois to dinner at Burger King and they brought home the extra car. Lettuce and tomato, vegeburger patty, side salad and water, so good.
This evening I've been playing on the computer a bit and now its bed time as I'm pretty tired. I keep waking up with different things going through my mind about my friend. Will be so glad to see her again.
Sending love to all
Tim
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Somber day
Every day that my friend is away I seem to miss her more. Today was pretty rough, not awful but just not a happy carefree day at all.
The girls came this afternoon and that is always a good experience. Steve came shortly after we came home and picked up Keanna as the three of them are at the Giants game tonight in the city. Kallie stayed with me and we are just back from a nice meal at UNOs in Antioch. It was her pick.
I had to be at a Tracy property this morning at 8:30 and it did not turn out well. When I got there my heart sank. The house is a triple wide manufactured home and it sits on 5 acres. Very few lenders will even consider making loans on manufactured homes at this time so its very likely I'll make no money for my 2 hours of work. The home is beautiful but lenders have a serious issue with loaning on them and its gotten worse over the years. People who had an existing loan on one of these homes would find that if they did a refi the same lender would not issue a new loan on the same property. It was a beautiful morning though and I enjoyed that part of it.
Then I came back to begin work in the office, set up orders and started to write up appraisals. I'm enjoying texting a new friend that Jo knows and saw on their trip recently. So we text internationally through this special service for no charge. But there is an 8 hour difference in time so we have to be careful not to wake the other person or to bother them when they are at work. She is a very nice lady and I'm enjoying getting to know her better.
Right now I need to get started as there is one more report that has to be written tonight and its already late. Not fun.
Sending love to all and I so need your prayers that God will guide in my life and in the life of my friend. Only God can see the future.
Love
Tim
The girls came this afternoon and that is always a good experience. Steve came shortly after we came home and picked up Keanna as the three of them are at the Giants game tonight in the city. Kallie stayed with me and we are just back from a nice meal at UNOs in Antioch. It was her pick.
I had to be at a Tracy property this morning at 8:30 and it did not turn out well. When I got there my heart sank. The house is a triple wide manufactured home and it sits on 5 acres. Very few lenders will even consider making loans on manufactured homes at this time so its very likely I'll make no money for my 2 hours of work. The home is beautiful but lenders have a serious issue with loaning on them and its gotten worse over the years. People who had an existing loan on one of these homes would find that if they did a refi the same lender would not issue a new loan on the same property. It was a beautiful morning though and I enjoyed that part of it.
Then I came back to begin work in the office, set up orders and started to write up appraisals. I'm enjoying texting a new friend that Jo knows and saw on their trip recently. So we text internationally through this special service for no charge. But there is an 8 hour difference in time so we have to be careful not to wake the other person or to bother them when they are at work. She is a very nice lady and I'm enjoying getting to know her better.
Right now I need to get started as there is one more report that has to be written tonight and its already late. Not fun.
Sending love to all and I so need your prayers that God will guide in my life and in the life of my friend. Only God can see the future.
Love
Tim
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Good day
Right now I feel its important that I keep busy and keep my mind mostly on doing my work in a professional manner.
I saw one here in Discovery Bay, very nice and with a pool. Then I saw one where the order just came in this morning. It was in Concord and a very brave lady met me there who has MS and has had it for many years. That visit was very enjoyable.
Then I drove on to Martinez and inspected one for an estate. While there I was shocked to hear what a commercial appraiser is charging them to do a little garage that fixes foreign cars and is located in Walnut Creek. The appraiser is charging them $3100 to do a simple appraisal. I charged $325 to do the one for the single family home. That just seems really wrong to charge so much.
On the way home I stopped at Olive Garden for soup and salad. Soup is 100 calories and salad is 150 and water is 0. One bread stick and then I was done. After a quick stop at Costco I'm home, oh yes just remembered I have things in the truck of the Civic. Yikes.
Well I took a break and brought the tomatoes, avocadoes, peanut butter in from the trunk. Glad I did not forget them there.
Since I still have to complete an appraisal yet tonight and then be in Tracy to see a ranch at 8:30 in the morning I think I'll wind this epistle down now.
Please pray that God will lead in our lives, I know what I would like but what I really desire is to have God's blessing on everything that takes place.
Love to all
Tim
I saw one here in Discovery Bay, very nice and with a pool. Then I saw one where the order just came in this morning. It was in Concord and a very brave lady met me there who has MS and has had it for many years. That visit was very enjoyable.
Then I drove on to Martinez and inspected one for an estate. While there I was shocked to hear what a commercial appraiser is charging them to do a little garage that fixes foreign cars and is located in Walnut Creek. The appraiser is charging them $3100 to do a simple appraisal. I charged $325 to do the one for the single family home. That just seems really wrong to charge so much.
On the way home I stopped at Olive Garden for soup and salad. Soup is 100 calories and salad is 150 and water is 0. One bread stick and then I was done. After a quick stop at Costco I'm home, oh yes just remembered I have things in the truck of the Civic. Yikes.
Well I took a break and brought the tomatoes, avocadoes, peanut butter in from the trunk. Glad I did not forget them there.
Since I still have to complete an appraisal yet tonight and then be in Tracy to see a ranch at 8:30 in the morning I think I'll wind this epistle down now.
Please pray that God will lead in our lives, I know what I would like but what I really desire is to have God's blessing on everything that takes place.
Love to all
Tim
Monday, April 7, 2014
Another boring day but work got done
So not every day can have great exciting moments in it.
Did the walk, did breakfast, worked in the office to get out a Mountain House report. Then I turned to the mail and there was NO money in it, bummer.
Broke down and made an appointment to have the timing belt replaced in the 2006 VW new beetle, due at 90K it now has 111,000 miles and I'm told that if the belt should fail at freeway speeds the engine would be destroyed. That would be thousands of dollars so better to spend the $1075 and have it done for the next several years. Seems there is never a good time to spend large amounts of money.
The family from France that had been deciding for the last month about renting my motorhome for 18 days in July made their decision. They are wiring me the deposit as soon as they can figure out how to do that little deed. I'm very pleased and I cut my prices as low as I could to make this happen. They seem like such nice people and I know they will enjoy themselves very much on their trip.
My brother has been involved in a huge project replacing the leach lines for the septic system at his place in Weed. He is 10 years older than I am and is out there working like a teenager every day moving rock, pipes, dirt. But he is sure tired at night. He thinks the project will be completed by tomorrow. I wish I could drop everything and go up and watch him work, maybe even help him a little but I can't do that right now.
Well I have to cut this short as I still need to write up a report this evening and get it shipped out to the client.
Sending love to all and please continue to pray that God will work His way in my personal life.
Love to all
Tim
Did the walk, did breakfast, worked in the office to get out a Mountain House report. Then I turned to the mail and there was NO money in it, bummer.
Broke down and made an appointment to have the timing belt replaced in the 2006 VW new beetle, due at 90K it now has 111,000 miles and I'm told that if the belt should fail at freeway speeds the engine would be destroyed. That would be thousands of dollars so better to spend the $1075 and have it done for the next several years. Seems there is never a good time to spend large amounts of money.
The family from France that had been deciding for the last month about renting my motorhome for 18 days in July made their decision. They are wiring me the deposit as soon as they can figure out how to do that little deed. I'm very pleased and I cut my prices as low as I could to make this happen. They seem like such nice people and I know they will enjoy themselves very much on their trip.
My brother has been involved in a huge project replacing the leach lines for the septic system at his place in Weed. He is 10 years older than I am and is out there working like a teenager every day moving rock, pipes, dirt. But he is sure tired at night. He thinks the project will be completed by tomorrow. I wish I could drop everything and go up and watch him work, maybe even help him a little but I can't do that right now.
Well I have to cut this short as I still need to write up a report this evening and get it shipped out to the client.
Sending love to all and please continue to pray that God will work His way in my personal life.
Love to all
Tim
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Visiting Gerry
Today dawned bright and clear and soon I was out charging along like I do above a walk and not quite a run. I actually see little as my head is down and I'm racing along, that is until the dumb dog stops so she can smell this or that, oh she tried my patience but she does not seem to care.
I knew Jessy was coming today, my part time office helper. She was coming as a favor to get the office in order and she certainly did.
I was destined to drive up to Lincoln today to see my ailing friend Gerry Lammerding. He has been a fellow traveler to Hawaii several times, on cruises, on visits to his cabin at Tahoe dozens of times, for many visits when Nan was ill. Barb and Gerry have been friends since we arrived in Sacramento to youth pastor the church. What a great blessing their friendship has been.
You know how you pray for someone every day and after a while it seems like it has become a routine but has less meaning. Well I've prayed for Gerry every day for many months since it was found that he was suffering from Congestive Heart Failure. Now the condition has become much more serious and his ability to do things has been greatly reduced. Michael, their younger son, is with them for a couple months and its certainly kind of God to allow him to be there. Along with Barbie, Barbie's sister Marilyn and other friends they have provided Gerry with a support system that along with Hospice is giving Gerry all the help he needs during this tough time.
I enjoyed my time with all of them so much and was able to sit with Gerry, to talk Mustangs, planes, trips, people and his current state as well. Barbie and Marilyn made a delicious lunch and we all ate and fellowshipped. I left mid afternoon knowing Gerry needed rest. While not easy to see a friend in trouble its far better to go than not to go, I went and I'm thankful I did. Barb and Gerry came so many times to be with Nan and help with her trips to radiation or whatever. GREAT friends for ever and eternally.
On my way home I had a chance to talk with my friend and just hearing her voice was such a lift. She sounded fine and was checking in on me to see how I was doing in her absence. Well while I miss her I'm committed to doing fine, have lots of work to do and I know God will watch over her so I'm pretty much at peace. Still it was so good to hear the voice and the smiles in her voice as we talked.
Jason texted to say that Timothy rode his bike for the first time today without trainer wheels. That is a great accomplishment for sure. I can remember when Jason took off for the first time so long ago. Jason is enjoying having his family back, I can tell.
I'm including a photo I snapped a few minutes ago with the iphone as I sat here at my desk. While it does not show much weight loss it still is still my current look. Tomorrow I check into contact lenses. I have glasses that get darker in the sun but never dark enough to really protect my eyes so I drive around for hours every day with my eyes squinting. With contact lenses I can wear normal real sunglasses and cut the glare so much more and I saw that at Walmart they are cheap. Well cheap is good!
Here is hoping for lots of work for all of us this week. I'm seeking to know God's will for this week.
Please pray that I will know what I'm doing on so many different levels, so personally and professionally.
Love to all
Tim
I knew Jessy was coming today, my part time office helper. She was coming as a favor to get the office in order and she certainly did.
I was destined to drive up to Lincoln today to see my ailing friend Gerry Lammerding. He has been a fellow traveler to Hawaii several times, on cruises, on visits to his cabin at Tahoe dozens of times, for many visits when Nan was ill. Barb and Gerry have been friends since we arrived in Sacramento to youth pastor the church. What a great blessing their friendship has been.
You know how you pray for someone every day and after a while it seems like it has become a routine but has less meaning. Well I've prayed for Gerry every day for many months since it was found that he was suffering from Congestive Heart Failure. Now the condition has become much more serious and his ability to do things has been greatly reduced. Michael, their younger son, is with them for a couple months and its certainly kind of God to allow him to be there. Along with Barbie, Barbie's sister Marilyn and other friends they have provided Gerry with a support system that along with Hospice is giving Gerry all the help he needs during this tough time.
I enjoyed my time with all of them so much and was able to sit with Gerry, to talk Mustangs, planes, trips, people and his current state as well. Barbie and Marilyn made a delicious lunch and we all ate and fellowshipped. I left mid afternoon knowing Gerry needed rest. While not easy to see a friend in trouble its far better to go than not to go, I went and I'm thankful I did. Barb and Gerry came so many times to be with Nan and help with her trips to radiation or whatever. GREAT friends for ever and eternally.
On my way home I had a chance to talk with my friend and just hearing her voice was such a lift. She sounded fine and was checking in on me to see how I was doing in her absence. Well while I miss her I'm committed to doing fine, have lots of work to do and I know God will watch over her so I'm pretty much at peace. Still it was so good to hear the voice and the smiles in her voice as we talked.
Jason texted to say that Timothy rode his bike for the first time today without trainer wheels. That is a great accomplishment for sure. I can remember when Jason took off for the first time so long ago. Jason is enjoying having his family back, I can tell.
I'm including a photo I snapped a few minutes ago with the iphone as I sat here at my desk. While it does not show much weight loss it still is still my current look. Tomorrow I check into contact lenses. I have glasses that get darker in the sun but never dark enough to really protect my eyes so I drive around for hours every day with my eyes squinting. With contact lenses I can wear normal real sunglasses and cut the glare so much more and I saw that at Walmart they are cheap. Well cheap is good!
Here is hoping for lots of work for all of us this week. I'm seeking to know God's will for this week.
Please pray that I will know what I'm doing on so many different levels, so personally and professionally.
Love to all
Tim
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Jo and Kiddos land in San Jose
This afternoon I got a very happy text from Jason that told me his family had touched down. Its been an enjoyable trip but everyone is very happy to be home again. Jason has been working to get the kitchen faucet replaced and has the house cleaned for their return. He is very good about helping out with housework.
Just had to tell you they were back and safe.
Lov
Tim
Just had to tell you they were back and safe.
Lov
Tim
Gentle day, joy at seeing friends, peace from worship, Jo and Kiddos are back in the US.
Dear Family and Friends,
A day of contrasts, all good.
Since I went to bed late last night I just did not set the 7 am alarm. I walked my 3 miles later but still got it in. Then Oatmeal and head to church. The sermon was by a guest speaker from the conference but he was so excellent in his delivery and content, just touched all the right places for my troubled heart. And I got to catch up with George and Yvonne, turns out George had surgery at Loma Linda last week and is doing very well. When he spoke he mentioned that he had experienced about 10 surgeries in his short life. And he never looked better. He and Yvonne have been losing some weight and look good. Its so good to have Loma Linda nearby for those special needs that come up.
Church is always a chance to see friends, lots of them and one feels warmed by being with the family again. No girls today as they had swim tryouts for the swim team right here in Discovery Bay at 10:30 this morning.
After the worship hour I caught soup and salad at Olive Garden and happened to have Michele as my waitress. When I mentioned that I only wanted one bread stick the very attractive waitress asked why so I told her of my 40 pounds weight loss, she said she was a personal trainer and then gave me some great tips on getting my tummy reduced. She was really helpful and came back several times to talk some more. I guess you know she got a good tip.
Then on a whim I drove to Amber my hair specialist and had my hair dyed brown again. Got to do what you can to stay young, I think it looks pretty good but I had no idea how long the process takes. Amber is a young 30 year old from Vietnam and is highly regarded in Brentwood for her excellence in working with both men and women's hair. While we were working she told me how she got her tummy flat again after her daughter was born. She said she used a 75 cm exercise ball and just sat on it and lifted up and down. So after my hard was 10 years younger I drove to Walmart and found the exercise ball. So in one afternoon I got three great tips about flattening my tummy, talk about getting help. Then since I was at Walmart I picked up some tomato plants, came home and planted them in the big planters on the back deck. Then I decided to retrieve my green boat that was half full of water and looked terrible. In the process of bailing out water the rope untied and the boat headed out to sea without a captain. The wind was helping and soon it was back against my neighbors property. So I made my way over there and in spite of ankle deep water in the bottom I found a piece of wood I could use as an oar and got it back.
I have been praying a lot over my friend who is away right now, just hoping I would hear from her and mid day a text came in inquiring how I was doing, it was from my friend and that little text sure helped me relax and let her be in God's hands. I told her I was doing OK but missed her and hoped she was having an enjoyable time.
I've also been texting a friend who I met at a house she had purchased in Richmond months ago. She is a beautiful Chinese lady who has come to America and really done well. She was able through texts last night and this morning to help me understand how Asian women tend to see things a little differently than American men. We are going to meet at Starbucks this week so she can teach me a few more things she thinks I might want to understand. I appreciate her help so much. Interesting how in life making friends is always worthwhile.
So I feel pretty good this evening, friends, worship, exercise, great food, new hair color!
A few minutes ago Gerry Lammerding called to say they were planning on driving down tomorrow for a visit mid day. Gerry is very ill these days so this visit will be extra special.
I wish you well this evening. God is good all the time.
Love
Tim
A day of contrasts, all good.
Since I went to bed late last night I just did not set the 7 am alarm. I walked my 3 miles later but still got it in. Then Oatmeal and head to church. The sermon was by a guest speaker from the conference but he was so excellent in his delivery and content, just touched all the right places for my troubled heart. And I got to catch up with George and Yvonne, turns out George had surgery at Loma Linda last week and is doing very well. When he spoke he mentioned that he had experienced about 10 surgeries in his short life. And he never looked better. He and Yvonne have been losing some weight and look good. Its so good to have Loma Linda nearby for those special needs that come up.
Church is always a chance to see friends, lots of them and one feels warmed by being with the family again. No girls today as they had swim tryouts for the swim team right here in Discovery Bay at 10:30 this morning.
After the worship hour I caught soup and salad at Olive Garden and happened to have Michele as my waitress. When I mentioned that I only wanted one bread stick the very attractive waitress asked why so I told her of my 40 pounds weight loss, she said she was a personal trainer and then gave me some great tips on getting my tummy reduced. She was really helpful and came back several times to talk some more. I guess you know she got a good tip.
Then on a whim I drove to Amber my hair specialist and had my hair dyed brown again. Got to do what you can to stay young, I think it looks pretty good but I had no idea how long the process takes. Amber is a young 30 year old from Vietnam and is highly regarded in Brentwood for her excellence in working with both men and women's hair. While we were working she told me how she got her tummy flat again after her daughter was born. She said she used a 75 cm exercise ball and just sat on it and lifted up and down. So after my hard was 10 years younger I drove to Walmart and found the exercise ball. So in one afternoon I got three great tips about flattening my tummy, talk about getting help. Then since I was at Walmart I picked up some tomato plants, came home and planted them in the big planters on the back deck. Then I decided to retrieve my green boat that was half full of water and looked terrible. In the process of bailing out water the rope untied and the boat headed out to sea without a captain. The wind was helping and soon it was back against my neighbors property. So I made my way over there and in spite of ankle deep water in the bottom I found a piece of wood I could use as an oar and got it back.
I have been praying a lot over my friend who is away right now, just hoping I would hear from her and mid day a text came in inquiring how I was doing, it was from my friend and that little text sure helped me relax and let her be in God's hands. I told her I was doing OK but missed her and hoped she was having an enjoyable time.
I've also been texting a friend who I met at a house she had purchased in Richmond months ago. She is a beautiful Chinese lady who has come to America and really done well. She was able through texts last night and this morning to help me understand how Asian women tend to see things a little differently than American men. We are going to meet at Starbucks this week so she can teach me a few more things she thinks I might want to understand. I appreciate her help so much. Interesting how in life making friends is always worthwhile.
So I feel pretty good this evening, friends, worship, exercise, great food, new hair color!
A few minutes ago Gerry Lammerding called to say they were planning on driving down tomorrow for a visit mid day. Gerry is very ill these days so this visit will be extra special.
I wish you well this evening. God is good all the time.
Love
Tim
Friday, April 4, 2014
The weekend is upon us, finally
Has this been a challenging week for you. It certainly has been for me and this day has been so different from yesterday, a day that ended up very happy for me.
This morning I found to my delight that I had lost 39.5 pounds so far. I am so thankful to my Heavenly Father, to my friend who has inspired me so much and encouraged me to keep on, to Jason who sort of started it by fixing a simple dinner and afterwards I determined I would not snack the rest of the evening. I've never snacked again and its been 4 months or so now.
Today has been a depressing day, pouring rain everywhere I went, lost contact with my friend, I knew I would be didn't realize how much I would miss that contact that has been there for the last 4 months. Now for two weeks I have decided to give her space as she vacations with her friend.
I've been lucky to get to talk to my friend Art today and to Jason, to Nikki who have all been helpful in helping the day pass.
This morning I saw a nice home where the mom was trying to sneak in an hour in a book since the kids were gone to school and at day care. She was a delightful lady. Then the next home was a small duet and it was pouring rain. They had some poor guy in the backyard with a weedeater trying to knock down the lawn as it poured rain on his head. I felt sorry for him and I was rather glad to leave that home.
Then I came home, found a check in the mail, deposited it and went to Mountain House, about 20 minutes away. That house was huge but the rain had mostly stopped. I found that house really hard to get measured correctly but finally it all came together.
Then I came home to work up stuff and have been doing that for the last few hours.
Now its bed time and I just hope God can give me peace. Please pray for us, that we will honor God's leading.
Tim
This morning I found to my delight that I had lost 39.5 pounds so far. I am so thankful to my Heavenly Father, to my friend who has inspired me so much and encouraged me to keep on, to Jason who sort of started it by fixing a simple dinner and afterwards I determined I would not snack the rest of the evening. I've never snacked again and its been 4 months or so now.
Today has been a depressing day, pouring rain everywhere I went, lost contact with my friend, I knew I would be didn't realize how much I would miss that contact that has been there for the last 4 months. Now for two weeks I have decided to give her space as she vacations with her friend.
I've been lucky to get to talk to my friend Art today and to Jason, to Nikki who have all been helpful in helping the day pass.
This morning I saw a nice home where the mom was trying to sneak in an hour in a book since the kids were gone to school and at day care. She was a delightful lady. Then the next home was a small duet and it was pouring rain. They had some poor guy in the backyard with a weedeater trying to knock down the lawn as it poured rain on his head. I felt sorry for him and I was rather glad to leave that home.
Then I came home, found a check in the mail, deposited it and went to Mountain House, about 20 minutes away. That house was huge but the rain had mostly stopped. I found that house really hard to get measured correctly but finally it all came together.
Then I came home to work up stuff and have been doing that for the last few hours.
Now its bed time and I just hope God can give me peace. Please pray for us, that we will honor God's leading.
Tim
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Late evening
Dear Family and Friends,
Tonight is a bit of a late evening. I had the joy of spending the evening with my friend, PF Chang had excellent food tonight in Pleasanton Mall, it was perfect and the evening was very nice. My friend is going away for a few days and that will be a different experience. So I'll concentrate on getting caught up in the office while she is away. I've not felt this close to someone in a very long time, right now as very good friends but we laugh, we joke, we stumble over the differences in our languages and we rib each other, sometimes we argue very bad but usually we get that settled as we don't want to waste time being upset. I had to come to the place where I chose to accept her like she is instead of trying to change an adult very much. We both need your prayers that our future will be God's will, at this point we have no idea what that will bring. But right now I enjoy time spent, in fact the time passes so quickly that it seems I blink and our time is over.
Today I've been writing reports and keeping my word, promises are very easy to make but often challenging to fulfill. Today I kept my word and I'm going to sleep very well tonight because of it.
Tomorrow I get to see three properties, 2 in Antioch and then one in Mountain House. Nice to have work. Jessy is coming on Sunday to help clean up the office. That will be great as she is a powerhouse at putting things right.
Good night and please keep me and my friend in your prayers. Oh how I would love to not be alone forever.
Love to all
Tim
Tonight is a bit of a late evening. I had the joy of spending the evening with my friend, PF Chang had excellent food tonight in Pleasanton Mall, it was perfect and the evening was very nice. My friend is going away for a few days and that will be a different experience. So I'll concentrate on getting caught up in the office while she is away. I've not felt this close to someone in a very long time, right now as very good friends but we laugh, we joke, we stumble over the differences in our languages and we rib each other, sometimes we argue very bad but usually we get that settled as we don't want to waste time being upset. I had to come to the place where I chose to accept her like she is instead of trying to change an adult very much. We both need your prayers that our future will be God's will, at this point we have no idea what that will bring. But right now I enjoy time spent, in fact the time passes so quickly that it seems I blink and our time is over.
Today I've been writing reports and keeping my word, promises are very easy to make but often challenging to fulfill. Today I kept my word and I'm going to sleep very well tonight because of it.
Tomorrow I get to see three properties, 2 in Antioch and then one in Mountain House. Nice to have work. Jessy is coming on Sunday to help clean up the office. That will be great as she is a powerhouse at putting things right.
Good night and please keep me and my friend in your prayers. Oh how I would love to not be alone forever.
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Rainy day
Living in California its always surprising to discover that its raining. We see it so seldom that we never really get used to it.
Today it rained and if I keep my office door closed then the computers and printers keep the room cozy warm which is nice, who likes to shiver while they work.
I've done conditions today, written reports, set up new orders and enjoy a quiet day in the office. Then an order came in and I called, the lady said come so at 4:30 today I was measuring a house in the rain. Only problem was I took the Civic but forgot the measuring wheel. Fortunately I have a 25 foot tape in the briefcase for times like today and while it takes a bit longer it went fine. After doing that house I spend some very enjoyable time with a friend walking in the rain and having dinner at the California Pizza kitchen. Would you believe I tasted some salmon and found it very good, that's a first.
Now its bedtime and I'm ready to crash.
Life is certainly never boring around here.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Today it rained and if I keep my office door closed then the computers and printers keep the room cozy warm which is nice, who likes to shiver while they work.
I've done conditions today, written reports, set up new orders and enjoy a quiet day in the office. Then an order came in and I called, the lady said come so at 4:30 today I was measuring a house in the rain. Only problem was I took the Civic but forgot the measuring wheel. Fortunately I have a 25 foot tape in the briefcase for times like today and while it takes a bit longer it went fine. After doing that house I spend some very enjoyable time with a friend walking in the rain and having dinner at the California Pizza kitchen. Would you believe I tasted some salmon and found it very good, that's a first.
Now its bedtime and I'm ready to crash.
Life is certainly never boring around here.
Sending love to all,
Tim
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