Been up for a while. Needed to dye my hair before I leave on Sunday, paid bills, put money back into savings, etc. Busy morning and it's 6:30am. Wonder what the rest of the day will bring.
Huge progress made yesterday. Most importantly, I found some of my clothes. I was able to start packing for next week. Thank goodness. Haven't found everything, but a good start. I also managed to get the basement pretty squared away. See, I needed to get some boxes out of the way in my office but the only place to put them was the basement but first I had to get boxes out of the way in the basement and so on and so on. End result, basement is looking good, my office is on its way. I hope to finish it today. Upstairs B kicked ass and got the kitchen 100% done. The living room is 90% there including decorating for Christmas. That's right people. Even in the midst of all this chaos, we managed to get our tree up and decorated. Suck it. I also got the TV setup and configured, and google home working. Priorities.
We did get one pleasant surprise. B was reading the u-haul site of what to do with your empty boxes and they have an exchange forum. She posted a message and no more than 5 minutes later someone responded! This really nice lady came over around 6 and took 75% of our empties. That's with B loading our car as well and following her to her house. She would have taken everything if it would have fit. She is going to come back on Monday night with her mom's SUV to load the rest including the bubble wrap and wrapping paper. We don't have to figure out or worry about where to dump empties. Score. Also by the time she comes back on Monday, we should have almost all other boxes opened.
We're doing this faster than the average bear mostly because of my schedule. Since I am going to be gone, if she needs help, it needs to be done NOW. No rest for the wicked. The only room we can go slower on is her office. She is going to work on it today, but it can happen at her pace, not mine. We have to hit IKEA to get her a tabletop before she can finish though and THAT has to happen today.
Going to order Xmas gifts today. I have about $300 in gift cards this year but going to reign it in for sure. We bought a damn house for Xmas. We also got B one of her HP posters. That's on its way and is a big enough present for her. Going to buy mostly house stuff that can be for both of us for the remaining presents.
Time to shower.
Friday, November 30, 2018
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Y10 D187
Is something wrong?She saidOf course there isYou're still aliveShe saidOh do I deserve to be?Is that the question? And if so, if soWho answers?Who answers?
You know who answers? Me. That's who. I had this playing last night while I was unpacking boxes in my office and it struck me. Yeah, you can knock me down. Again. And again. And again. But motherfucker, I get back up. I always get back up. I'm still alive.
We were unpacking machines yesterday. Given my short time at home this week, we had to be. I am not leaving poor B to do all this on her own. Especially my shit downstairs. I went off on as much as I could. She knocked out the kitchen which is no small feat. We're nowhere near done, but damn if we didn't make a mountain back into a molehill.
I also managed to work yesterday. Laid down some audio tracks for one of our CBTs. OMG recording in my new space was wonderful. One take, no noise. Took longer to transcode the file than to record it. I was so happy about that. I also modified and prepared one of three classes I need to get done for 2019.
Only one thing I didn't get done which has to happen today and that's find my work clothes. I found clothes, but not the ones I need to pack. The problem is I used clothes as packing material in some boxes and I need to open everything to find what I am looking for down there. Is what it is. But damn if I don't find them I am screwed. I will have to go to the store and buy 4 shirts and a pair of pants. That ain't happening.
Made car reservations for TN. I decided I don't want to dick with cabs and the like. Fuck it. Came out cheaper than six days of a rental car and parking.
Time to get my ass back to the salt mines.
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
Y10 D186
So many boxes. Over 350 tagged items including furniture. Hey remember how I was worried this guy under-estimated the weight of all my stuff and that there might be a problem? Well one of those was right. When we moved to OR, the weight of everything was around 8,000 lbs. This time? The driver told us our stuff was close to 11,000. The guy at the office under scoped are weight big time. Not our issue. This is why I was so adamant about getting a not to exceed quote and why everyone else came in so much higher. They knew we would be somewhere around 10k at least. Not this guy. We were looking over some of his estimate (me and the driver) and he severely under figured a lot of the small boxes. He assumed small box and was like 5 lbs. Problem is at least 20 of our small boxes were book boxes each closer to 20 pounds. So what should have been 400 lbs came in at 100. Hey, it's over, it's done, it's paid, go away.
The movers showed up promptly at 8am, got set up, and were unloading by 8:20. He had a MUCH better crew this time. Two young guys who were eager to get paid and get the job done. They had that truck unloaded by 11:30. They were also very respectful of our doors, walls, and floors. They did an excellent job. Now for us to put it all away. We did manage to get a few things setup. The guest room is good, our room is good, and my desk is good. Not my whole office mind you, but my desk at least. Both upstairs and downstairs. This means I can get some work done without too much trouble. That's important.
We worked straight through until almost 11:30 breaking only for a quick dinner. I have some specific tasks to get done today and then I will be right back on it to help get things done. B's friend is coming over today to help her and they are focusing on kitchen. Good, I want to be able to cook at home. Next we will probably focus on living room, B's office, then finally basement. I have only a few more days at home and then it's nothing from me for a good while.
I am going to be doing some recording this morning. First big test of my new space. Wish me luck.
The movers showed up promptly at 8am, got set up, and were unloading by 8:20. He had a MUCH better crew this time. Two young guys who were eager to get paid and get the job done. They had that truck unloaded by 11:30. They were also very respectful of our doors, walls, and floors. They did an excellent job. Now for us to put it all away. We did manage to get a few things setup. The guest room is good, our room is good, and my desk is good. Not my whole office mind you, but my desk at least. Both upstairs and downstairs. This means I can get some work done without too much trouble. That's important.
We worked straight through until almost 11:30 breaking only for a quick dinner. I have some specific tasks to get done today and then I will be right back on it to help get things done. B's friend is coming over today to help her and they are focusing on kitchen. Good, I want to be able to cook at home. Next we will probably focus on living room, B's office, then finally basement. I have only a few more days at home and then it's nothing from me for a good while.
I am going to be doing some recording this morning. First big test of my new space. Wish me luck.
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Y10 D185
TODAY'S THE DAY!! TWO WEEKS AFTER BEING HERE OUR STUFF WILL BE HERE IN TWO HOURS! WHOOOO!!!!
Much excite!
I worked yesterday although it was a pain in the ass doing it the way my stuff is set up right now. Was not very easy or logical. I kept moving a folding chair from point A to point B. Annoying as shit. I did get confirmation on my third december trip. I now go TN, Brea, then Pasadena with only one day at home. I will be insanely busy starting next Sunday. But it will finish off my hotel stay needs, my car rental needs, and put me within spitting distance of my airline needs. I will need one flight in January. I can do that.
We had all the leftovers last night. Then around 6 we lugged 16 bags of leaves out to the curb for garbage day. Ah, the joys of home ownership. Good times. Hopefully we put them out their correctly and they take all 16 bags. Cross your fingers for me.
Watched some 'tv' on the ol' laptop, went to bed around 11. Need to go to the store before the movers come to grab some cash and move the car. Let's go!! I better not look outside and see the white rain.
Much excite!
I worked yesterday although it was a pain in the ass doing it the way my stuff is set up right now. Was not very easy or logical. I kept moving a folding chair from point A to point B. Annoying as shit. I did get confirmation on my third december trip. I now go TN, Brea, then Pasadena with only one day at home. I will be insanely busy starting next Sunday. But it will finish off my hotel stay needs, my car rental needs, and put me within spitting distance of my airline needs. I will need one flight in January. I can do that.
We had all the leftovers last night. Then around 6 we lugged 16 bags of leaves out to the curb for garbage day. Ah, the joys of home ownership. Good times. Hopefully we put them out their correctly and they take all 16 bags. Cross your fingers for me.
Watched some 'tv' on the ol' laptop, went to bed around 11. Need to go to the store before the movers come to grab some cash and move the car. Let's go!! I better not look outside and see the white rain.
Monday, November 26, 2018
Y10 D184
More painting was done yesterday. Our bedroom is now 100% complete. Trim and all. That was an all day project. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms left to do. I believe B is going to start in on the main bathroom today. We haven't picked out colors for the remaining rooms yet, but it will come. Doing this is making it feel more like "ours" instead of someone else's house. I know it's dumb, but true. Plus only one more day and we'll have our stuff in here. Thank goodness. Then it will really be solid. We ate out a lot yesterday because of the painting. Plus I didn't feel much like going to the grocery store or cooking with our meager corningware that we have.
We did take one break yesterday. We went out to this place called Flower Barn Nursery which is more of a giant fish store than a nursery. They have all sorts of fish you won't find at a regular pet store. Live brine, baby lobsters, puffers, sharks. They have an 800 gallon tank with coral for $25,000. This is the serious fish store. I refused to get too excited though. Not until our other tanks get here and I know what kind of space we will have and how they will be setup. We can go back in January and think about other fish.
No, nothing from the kid. Sorry. I will be following up with her today myself.
We did take one break yesterday. We went out to this place called Flower Barn Nursery which is more of a giant fish store than a nursery. They have all sorts of fish you won't find at a regular pet store. Live brine, baby lobsters, puffers, sharks. They have an 800 gallon tank with coral for $25,000. This is the serious fish store. I refused to get too excited though. Not until our other tanks get here and I know what kind of space we will have and how they will be setup. We can go back in January and think about other fish.
No, nothing from the kid. Sorry. I will be following up with her today myself.
Sunday, November 25, 2018
Y10 D183
I have to stop chastising myself for 'sleeping in'. I need to remember that I am still adjusting to being in EST. I know we have been here a little while, but in reality I am still waking up between 3:30 and 4am. Just eastern variety. I actually have been waking up around 5:30 each day but not getting up. I guess I am taking advantage of this opportunity to catch up on some sleep. Starting next week I have to do real work and then I am on the road so I won't get the opportunity any more. Enjoy it while it lasts.
Yesterday I was overloaded with family and people. We went in the morning to B's aunt's house to get the furniture they were giving us. A dining room table and a buffet. There I met her cousin, and B's dad was there and her cousin's son, and the aunt. Woof. Many people. Oh but first we had stopped at her grandparent's to get the truck. Like 5 people there at 9 in the morning. B's dad brought his truck with trailer and we were able to fit everything between the two vehicles with no problem. We get everything loaded and brought back to the house. With her dad's help, we got it all in and setup quickly. I thought that would be the end of it.
Nope.
Her dad then said he wanted to clean our yard. Sure, why not. Knock yourself out. He was there for the next 6 hours. Seriously. He replaced and cleaned our gutters, raked all our leaves, blew leaves, trimmed things, he helped me remove a shelving unit from the garage, all sorts of outdoor stuff. For that I was grateful and appreciative. He did more than I would have ever done on my own for sure. The problem came when we had to run to home depot for some stuff. We needed a rake, a sprayer nozzle, and some gutter screws.
We get back and B's uncle is in our house. With his two fucking kids. Okay, not cool. Here's where I kind of drew the line. You don't invite people to MY house and especially let them into my house without me here. We gently talked to her dad about it later and he understood, but it better not happen again. I was so angry that I went off and "took a nap" just to get away.
We made a chicken pot pie for dinner and ate it at our 'new' table. I should mention, the furniture is really nice. It's handmade amish oak furniture and we will use the buffet as a tv stand until we decide where we want to mount the tv.
No updates from the kid. I am hoping she can get in this week. Keep your fingers crossed on that.
Today we are painting the bedroom. Whee!
Yesterday I was overloaded with family and people. We went in the morning to B's aunt's house to get the furniture they were giving us. A dining room table and a buffet. There I met her cousin, and B's dad was there and her cousin's son, and the aunt. Woof. Many people. Oh but first we had stopped at her grandparent's to get the truck. Like 5 people there at 9 in the morning. B's dad brought his truck with trailer and we were able to fit everything between the two vehicles with no problem. We get everything loaded and brought back to the house. With her dad's help, we got it all in and setup quickly. I thought that would be the end of it.
Nope.
Her dad then said he wanted to clean our yard. Sure, why not. Knock yourself out. He was there for the next 6 hours. Seriously. He replaced and cleaned our gutters, raked all our leaves, blew leaves, trimmed things, he helped me remove a shelving unit from the garage, all sorts of outdoor stuff. For that I was grateful and appreciative. He did more than I would have ever done on my own for sure. The problem came when we had to run to home depot for some stuff. We needed a rake, a sprayer nozzle, and some gutter screws.
We get back and B's uncle is in our house. With his two fucking kids. Okay, not cool. Here's where I kind of drew the line. You don't invite people to MY house and especially let them into my house without me here. We gently talked to her dad about it later and he understood, but it better not happen again. I was so angry that I went off and "took a nap" just to get away.
We made a chicken pot pie for dinner and ate it at our 'new' table. I should mention, the furniture is really nice. It's handmade amish oak furniture and we will use the buffet as a tv stand until we decide where we want to mount the tv.
No updates from the kid. I am hoping she can get in this week. Keep your fingers crossed on that.
Today we are painting the bedroom. Whee!
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Y10 D182
Did you all see what CAH did yesterday?? They had a 99% off sale. Every ten minutes they offered something new. Items included:
- 2015 Ford Fiesta with 25k miles - $97.50
- A real Picasso - $60
- A signed picture of Nixon - $6
- Sony 85" TV - $35
- 600 live ants - $.66
- Full size pirate ship bounce house - $18
And there were many more. There was basically one of each and you had to be fast. I tried for a few of them but missed out. It was impressive as hell though. I was reading that there 30,000 - 40,000 people trying for each item every ten minutes. The real item for sale was their new "Absurd Box" with 300 new cards, normally $2000 but today only $20. Yeah, I bought one. I mean come on, I had to.
So that was my excitement yesterday. B braved the outside world with a friend of hers. I chose to stay home. I made the smarter decision. We did go out later in the evening to the pet store and home depot. Nothing major and it was late enough both were relatively dead.
Finished painting the office. I am very happy with the color. We were talking yesterday and for the first time in like a decade, I am going to not have to shove everything under the sun into my office. It will be a desk, shelves, and that's about it. It's going to be a wonderful change for me. No dressers, bookcases, etc. We did discover one issue with the room; there's only two outlets and one is controlled by the switch outside the room. Not cool. I did make an appointment with an electrician to come over and price out some stuff in December and that will get added to the list. There's about 7 or 8 little projects like that I want scoped. We'll see which ones we can afford to do over time.
B had another friend come over in the early evening. She took the tour and hung out for a while. Big difference between her two friends. One was complimentary of the house, sat and talked with us, the other said "you have a lot of storage". Um, yes? People.
I made a car service reservation for next Sunday. I picked a moderate size company so I can establish a relationship. Let's see how they do.
Today we're picking up the buffet and the dining room table from her aunt's place. At least one room of this house will be put together. Other than that, no big plans for the whole weekend. Only four more days until our shit arrives in theory.
- 2015 Ford Fiesta with 25k miles - $97.50
- A real Picasso - $60
- A signed picture of Nixon - $6
- Sony 85" TV - $35
- 600 live ants - $.66
- Full size pirate ship bounce house - $18
And there were many more. There was basically one of each and you had to be fast. I tried for a few of them but missed out. It was impressive as hell though. I was reading that there 30,000 - 40,000 people trying for each item every ten minutes. The real item for sale was their new "Absurd Box" with 300 new cards, normally $2000 but today only $20. Yeah, I bought one. I mean come on, I had to.
So that was my excitement yesterday. B braved the outside world with a friend of hers. I chose to stay home. I made the smarter decision. We did go out later in the evening to the pet store and home depot. Nothing major and it was late enough both were relatively dead.
Finished painting the office. I am very happy with the color. We were talking yesterday and for the first time in like a decade, I am going to not have to shove everything under the sun into my office. It will be a desk, shelves, and that's about it. It's going to be a wonderful change for me. No dressers, bookcases, etc. We did discover one issue with the room; there's only two outlets and one is controlled by the switch outside the room. Not cool. I did make an appointment with an electrician to come over and price out some stuff in December and that will get added to the list. There's about 7 or 8 little projects like that I want scoped. We'll see which ones we can afford to do over time.
B had another friend come over in the early evening. She took the tour and hung out for a while. Big difference between her two friends. One was complimentary of the house, sat and talked with us, the other said "you have a lot of storage". Um, yes? People.
I made a car service reservation for next Sunday. I picked a moderate size company so I can establish a relationship. Let's see how they do.
Today we're picking up the buffet and the dining room table from her aunt's place. At least one room of this house will be put together. Other than that, no big plans for the whole weekend. Only four more days until our shit arrives in theory.
Friday, November 23, 2018
Y10 D181
We believe our ceiling mouse is actually a squirrel. Whatever it is, it is too large for the traps we have been setting. We need to get a larger live animal trap to catch this thing. It's not a rat as they are unlikely in this type of area. Plus the poop doesn't support rat. It supports squirrel. Lovely. At least I don't have to worry about her wanting to keep that as a pet.
Spent the day finally painting. Got my office done. Didn't leave the house for once. About damn time. The office looks pretty good. I need to do some touch-up this morning, but I don't think I will need a full second coat. I need to do the white trim now today. One room will be done. Whee.
We had our faux thanksgiving meal in the basement watching episodes of friends. That's us. Nerds until the end.
It's 20 degrees outside. WTF? We're getting snow on Sunday and Monday but luckily nothing forecasted for Tuesday when the movers get here. I can't believe I am looking forward to going to TN where it will be 'warmer'. MI to TN to CA in three weeks. Yeah, I predict a cold coming on.
No new updates on the kid getting into her place. Believe me, she is more annoyed and anxious about it than me. We're just sitting and waiting. All that can be done.
Not much else going on today. Today I avoid all stores and shopping because I'm not an idiot. Especially here. These people really do camp out overnight for $100 televisions. Fucking knuckleheads. No thanks.
Spent the day finally painting. Got my office done. Didn't leave the house for once. About damn time. The office looks pretty good. I need to do some touch-up this morning, but I don't think I will need a full second coat. I need to do the white trim now today. One room will be done. Whee.
We had our faux thanksgiving meal in the basement watching episodes of friends. That's us. Nerds until the end.
It's 20 degrees outside. WTF? We're getting snow on Sunday and Monday but luckily nothing forecasted for Tuesday when the movers get here. I can't believe I am looking forward to going to TN where it will be 'warmer'. MI to TN to CA in three weeks. Yeah, I predict a cold coming on.
No new updates on the kid getting into her place. Believe me, she is more annoyed and anxious about it than me. We're just sitting and waiting. All that can be done.
Not much else going on today. Today I avoid all stores and shopping because I'm not an idiot. Especially here. These people really do camp out overnight for $100 televisions. Fucking knuckleheads. No thanks.
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Y10 D180
As expected, our stuff did not show up yesterday. I waited until 10am and sent a strongly worded email to both Allied and the local company that handled it. Allied got back to me within an hour. End result? I got a $400 credit to buy things that we need INCLUDING food for tonight (played the sitting on the floor eating fast food on thanksgiving sympathy card hard) and a guarantee my stuff will be here Tuesday at the latest. That part still sucks, but I know where it is now at least. WI to be exact. He has two drops in WI, then IN, then us. Good times.
To add to that clusterfuck, the guy with my motorcycle reached out to me. The keys for my bike were stolen. Luckily the bike was locked in a secure garage, but the keys were in his truck for some stupid fucking reason. Now they're going to have to rip my ignition and replace the keys. What a fucked up situation.
So yeah, that was our day. Fun huh?
On the positive side, B's 'aunt' gave us some furniture and we are getting more from her Saturday. We now have a lazy-boy recliner and a couch in our basement. It's better than sitting on the floor. This weekend we are going over and getting a dining room table and matching buffet.
We found a cool antique store yesterday and got a light fixture for our dining room. I love it. Finally starting to make this our house by doing shit like that.
Still haven't caught the fucking mouse in the ceiling who just ran over my head. Fucker.
At 9pm we went to the store. Spent $200 which I am submitting to Allied. Cookware, a folding table, blankets, pots, pans, knives, and some food for tonight. I kept it reasonable but still got things we need to function. They better not deny any of this or I will go ballistic right now.
Fuck Thanksgiving.
To add to that clusterfuck, the guy with my motorcycle reached out to me. The keys for my bike were stolen. Luckily the bike was locked in a secure garage, but the keys were in his truck for some stupid fucking reason. Now they're going to have to rip my ignition and replace the keys. What a fucked up situation.
So yeah, that was our day. Fun huh?
On the positive side, B's 'aunt' gave us some furniture and we are getting more from her Saturday. We now have a lazy-boy recliner and a couch in our basement. It's better than sitting on the floor. This weekend we are going over and getting a dining room table and matching buffet.
We found a cool antique store yesterday and got a light fixture for our dining room. I love it. Finally starting to make this our house by doing shit like that.
Still haven't caught the fucking mouse in the ceiling who just ran over my head. Fucker.
At 9pm we went to the store. Spent $200 which I am submitting to Allied. Cookware, a folding table, blankets, pots, pans, knives, and some food for tonight. I kept it reasonable but still got things we need to function. They better not deny any of this or I will go ballistic right now.
Fuck Thanksgiving.
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Y10 D179
So much to update you all on this morning, whoo boy. Let's start with some pictures. See this map from the CA Wildfire Service? See that GREEN building? That's the kid's apartment complex. I know. Just, I know.
Now, here's the outside. Notice how charred and burnt and melted some things are? We still don't know the inside condition, but damn. She is honestly going to get a tattoo this weekend of a rabbit's foot. She knows how lucky she is. We all do.
She should be able to get back in on Friday to see the extent of the internal damage. No promises on the inside contents, but man oh man, if the inside is half as good as the out we'll all be happy.
Now on to the stupid cat. She ended up having to have 3 teeth pulled. She did fine during the surgery and is in moderate pain right now. We have pain killers for her. She is doing well thank goodness.
If only I could get my furniture. No, no word on that. I plan on sending a STRONG email to the coordinator today making him feel guilty. It won't do much, but I sure as hell will feel better.
Visited some of B's family yesterday. That was 'fun'. Honestly it wasn't bad I just get all weird around family type settings. It's just me.
We got a heater for the bedroom since it is freezing in there even with the house heat on. I think it's because we are sleeping on the floor and right up against an exterior wall. Either way, we needed external heat.
What else? I think that's about it. That's a pretty full day in my book. Today we are going to visit her aunt who has some furniture for us. We will at least have a dining room table. The one thing I give zero fucks about. Good times.
Now, here's the outside. Notice how charred and burnt and melted some things are? We still don't know the inside condition, but damn. She is honestly going to get a tattoo this weekend of a rabbit's foot. She knows how lucky she is. We all do.
She should be able to get back in on Friday to see the extent of the internal damage. No promises on the inside contents, but man oh man, if the inside is half as good as the out we'll all be happy.
Now on to the stupid cat. She ended up having to have 3 teeth pulled. She did fine during the surgery and is in moderate pain right now. We have pain killers for her. She is doing well thank goodness.
If only I could get my furniture. No, no word on that. I plan on sending a STRONG email to the coordinator today making him feel guilty. It won't do much, but I sure as hell will feel better.
Visited some of B's family yesterday. That was 'fun'. Honestly it wasn't bad I just get all weird around family type settings. It's just me.
We got a heater for the bedroom since it is freezing in there even with the house heat on. I think it's because we are sleeping on the floor and right up against an exterior wall. Either way, we needed external heat.
What else? I think that's about it. That's a pretty full day in my book. Today we are going to visit her aunt who has some furniture for us. We will at least have a dining room table. The one thing I give zero fucks about. Good times.
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Y10 D178
Took the ca to the vet yesterday to deal with her tooth issue. She has a bad tooth that dropped. She is going back today to have it removed. Lovely. Fun times.
Didn't really do much else come to think of it. I went to target to get some stuff. We met with our realtor to get our paperwork. Had dinner with one of B's friends. Went to bed around 10:30. I am noticing I am going to bed closer to 11 here and getting up around 6. I am turning into a normal human being. NO IT HURTS!!
Put the garbage cans out last night. Good times.
Today we got to the vet, then the courthouse to turn in our papers, then paint.
Someday we will get furniture. Some day.
Didn't really do much else come to think of it. I went to target to get some stuff. We met with our realtor to get our paperwork. Had dinner with one of B's friends. Went to bed around 10:30. I am noticing I am going to bed closer to 11 here and getting up around 6. I am turning into a normal human being. NO IT HURTS!!
Put the garbage cans out last night. Good times.
Today we got to the vet, then the courthouse to turn in our papers, then paint.
Someday we will get furniture. Some day.
Monday, November 19, 2018
Y10 D177
I think it's finally starting to sink in that I live here. HERE. Weird. You know I haven't even been in my own backyard yet? Snow and cold and too many things to do inside has kept me from going outside. I am going to make that a priority today. I started taping off the office so I can paint today.
So what DID I get accomplished yesterday? Well, I installed the Nest as planned. That thing is pretty neat. It should over time save me money. Going to submit the rebate form today. Between the savings as a best buy elite and the rebate, this stupid thing is going to cost me $75. Not too bad.
We also went exploring a little bit. I am learning the streets and the areas. For once I am glad I travel as much as I do. I can remember things faster than the average person when it comes to navigating. I can get to at least 3 or 4 main stores we need to use. Success.
We 'cooked' at home too. Had pulled pork sandwiches with mashed potatoes and veggies. Yes, I made dinner in a microwave, but we sat in bed (on the floor), watched TV, and had a nice time in our home. Still so quiet, I can't get over it.
Today we have to take one cat to the vet. Her tooth situation is getting worse. Need to fix that ASAP. That and painting are our big projects for Monday.
Oh, and just to be clear - FUCK THANKSGIVING.
So what DID I get accomplished yesterday? Well, I installed the Nest as planned. That thing is pretty neat. It should over time save me money. Going to submit the rebate form today. Between the savings as a best buy elite and the rebate, this stupid thing is going to cost me $75. Not too bad.
We also went exploring a little bit. I am learning the streets and the areas. For once I am glad I travel as much as I do. I can remember things faster than the average person when it comes to navigating. I can get to at least 3 or 4 main stores we need to use. Success.
We 'cooked' at home too. Had pulled pork sandwiches with mashed potatoes and veggies. Yes, I made dinner in a microwave, but we sat in bed (on the floor), watched TV, and had a nice time in our home. Still so quiet, I can't get over it.
Today we have to take one cat to the vet. Her tooth situation is getting worse. Need to fix that ASAP. That and painting are our big projects for Monday.
Oh, and just to be clear - FUCK THANKSGIVING.
Sunday, November 18, 2018
Y10 D176
As you can see, I slept in this morning. I didn't go to bed until almost midnight though. But regardless, I got a good night sleep. Why did I sleep so well? Because B found us a bed. Since we don't know when our stuff is arriving, we broke down and bought a mattress and box spring. We need one in the guest room anyway and it won't go to waste. Made for a much better night's sleep, that's for sure. It was also only $300 at big lots. Yep. Big Lots. Go figure. That was but one of many things we did yesterday. Day two in our new home went much better than day one.
We also got paint for the master bedroom, the main bathroom, and my office. That will be our project next week. We are dealing with a clogged drain in the bathroom so got a snake to try and work through that.
I was talking to my sister last night and was telling her about things like that around here. I feel like the previous owner either didn't live here much or bought it solely to flip. Things are just not 'done' in places. But I am hesitant to say anything critical in front of B. I don't want her thinking I hate the place. She did a lot in finding and getting it for us and I want her to feel proud. It's just me being bitchy me.
I picked up a nest yesterday too. That's one of my projects for today. Shouldn't be too hard to install. All of four wires. Harder part will be figuring out the fuse box controls. Not well labeled.
No word from the movers. I was hoping they might have any update. Cross your fingers I hear from them on Monday.
We also got paint for the master bedroom, the main bathroom, and my office. That will be our project next week. We are dealing with a clogged drain in the bathroom so got a snake to try and work through that.
I was talking to my sister last night and was telling her about things like that around here. I feel like the previous owner either didn't live here much or bought it solely to flip. Things are just not 'done' in places. But I am hesitant to say anything critical in front of B. I don't want her thinking I hate the place. She did a lot in finding and getting it for us and I want her to feel proud. It's just me being bitchy me.
I picked up a nest yesterday too. That's one of my projects for today. Shouldn't be too hard to install. All of four wires. Harder part will be figuring out the fuse box controls. Not well labeled.
No word from the movers. I was hoping they might have any update. Cross your fingers I hear from them on Monday.
Saturday, November 17, 2018
Y10 D175
I HAVE REAL INTERNET! And when I say I have internet, whoo boy do I mean it:
So yeah, that's finally done. Only took 9 hours. More on that in a minute.
First off, the kid. She sent me a video yesterday of someone driving down her road the night of the fire. There was a comic book/collectible card store next to her building and it's just blazing away. How her building managed to stay up is a miracle. And I don't use words like that lightly. We won't know the condition of the contents of her place for a while though. Odds are everything is going to be pretty messed up. After seeing the video of what was going on around her, there's no way she isn't going to be dealing with ash and smoke damage. We will cross that bridge when we come to it. Right now that looks like it will be December before they can get back in. She is staying in a room at a co-workers house and will be offering them some money to stay there for the next few weeks. Luckily, her work went WAY ABOVE and beyond. They gave her a check for $1150 to cover what she might need to rent a room for two months AND they gave her a grocery store gift card for $100 to get Thanksgiving groceries. Kindness abounds.
I did get a call yesterday from her mother. I was busy and let it go to VM. She is wanting to know what 'we can do together'. Um, nothing? I got it covered on my end. Thanks. Go live your life and I will live mind. Pain in my ass.
Now, back to the adventure from hell. NEVER AGAIN. A quick recap of the week:
Monday
Movers show up on time (amazing) but unlike the last ones can't seem to get their truck into the spot and end up parking on the street. This adds a delay as they have to take everything an extra 150-200 feet. Doesn't seem much, but when you're carrying a couch, it makes a difference. Plus the fucking moving company told the driver "2 bedroom apartment" even after I told them I had the equivalent of a multi-room home. When the driver showed to look around he immediately was like 'um this is more than I was expecting'. No fucking shit buddy. The problem? The local guys sent him to helpers that were older than me. They were bitching and moaning the whole time and taking like one box at a time. I could have done a faster job. So what should have taken 3 hours took 6. Lovely. But they got it done. When I asked when he thought he would drop off, he said it might not be until the 26th because of Thanksgiving? Are you serious??? I was told the 20th and now you're pushing it out a fucking WEEK?? Ugh. So pissed off about that. After they left, we organized are stuff to go in the car and got to bed early.
Tuesday
Got up and started loading the car. That was frustrating. Things didn't fit where I wanted them. Had to redo things multiple times to get everything working. Then had to get the fish in and setup their power. Then the cats. Whoo boy, the cats. Within the first twenty minutes one had shat themselves and then thrown up. That put a damper on our start. By the time we really started rolling it was after 4:30am. Fun times when you have 900 miles to go. Day one took us through OR, WA, and MT. MT was pretty and pretty boring. Snow, open road, 80 mile an hour stretches. Got to the hotel really late, got everyone inside, and crashed hard.
Wednesday
Day two was a little better. Day two was MT, ND, and MN. Again more empty open roads. We picked up some dramamine for the cats Tuesday night and that helped A LOT to keep them calm. Some early morning issues, but much better day in general. 850 miles total that day. Got to Eagan earlier than the day before. The hotel there had been open only a week and was perfect. They went above and beyond in terms of service. Even so much as loading us up with water and food when we checked out in the morning and not a single charge. I was very pleased with that.
Thursday
Last day of travel. 700 miles through MN, IL, IN, and MI. IL sucked because we had to go right through Chicago and it was bad. Even at noon when we hit it the traffic was a nightmare. We drugged the cats again which helped. We also hit a snowstorm when we hit IN. I was so worried about everything up above the car. I had computer shit in there that I kept stressing over. Got to the house around 6:30pm EST. What a trip. We didn't have much time to really take everything in. My first priorities were cats, fish, then computers. By the time I got all that in it was 9pm and B setup the air mattress and we collapsed. We had planned on bringing our real bed but it wouldn't fit. We ended up bringing our 22" air mattress which is better than nothing, but not so good we didn't look around yesterday for a real mattress. We need one for the guest room anyway.
How's the house? Acceptable. I am having to learn that basements are not 'finished' to my standards especially in a house this old. By that I mean the electrical is wonky, some of the ceiling tiles don't match (it was finished in stages, you can tell), and there's little construction issues that make me go huh? But I love the upstairs. I just wish it had furniture in it. With nothing in it and hardwood floors, it echoes and is cold. It's still snowing here and that's not helping things. But the space is amazing and more importantly, it's silent. Like dear god is it silent. I couldn't ask for anything better. I can't hear shit outside and I love it. My office is an oasis of darkness and silence. People could use it as an isolation chamber. It's awesome.
Friday
Ah yesterday. AT&T was scheduled to be here at 9 so at 7 we went and did some grocery shopping. We stopped for some breakfast and then came back to wait. B went out to get a rocking chair from her mother and some stuff at petsmart. Her dad left us a 30 gallon tank setup and I got the fish all situated in that. AT&T guy showed at 9 on the dot. Impressive. He then looked around, figured out where to drop the fiber, and went to work. Took him a few hours outside as he had to run a brand new drop from the pole and the main box. He got it in, ran it through the ceiling for me, and was ready to go. Until it didn't work. Long story short, his people fucked up and gave him an ONT (the modem) that was still assigned to another customer and wouldn't recognize us. He had tried swapping out multiple things, resetting, rewiring, etc. Finally he got it resolved around 5:30 after being here all day. I gave him the cash in my pocket (about $15) because I felt so bad. He almost wouldn't take it, but I made him. He was thankful and that made me feel good. We did lose the entire day unfortunately. We then tried to go to Walmart for some more household stuff. Never doing that again. This area is truly a 'people of Walmart' world. I hated every fucking second of it. Got what we needed and got the hell out. We then tried to find a mattress somewhere. No luck on that because we wanted it delivered today and it was too late for most stores. We will try again today to see if we can find one. Wish us luck.
First though, we are taking the cats to the vet. One cat has a tooth problem that needs to be resolved now. It's grown into her bottom lip and needs to come out. She is in pain and cranky from it. B has a friend who works in a vet office about 30 minutes away and we're taking the cat there. That's how I will spend my Saturday.
Oh and through all this? I was working. I answered a ton of emails, booked a flight to TN, handled manuals being ordered, dealt with clients and our CBT guy, etc. I told my boss that he owed me one day of non-PTO for this week and he agreed. Instead of taking 8 days for this, I only have to put down 7. Cool. I can handle that.
Time to shower and see about turning on some heat in this place.
So yeah, that's finally done. Only took 9 hours. More on that in a minute.
First off, the kid. She sent me a video yesterday of someone driving down her road the night of the fire. There was a comic book/collectible card store next to her building and it's just blazing away. How her building managed to stay up is a miracle. And I don't use words like that lightly. We won't know the condition of the contents of her place for a while though. Odds are everything is going to be pretty messed up. After seeing the video of what was going on around her, there's no way she isn't going to be dealing with ash and smoke damage. We will cross that bridge when we come to it. Right now that looks like it will be December before they can get back in. She is staying in a room at a co-workers house and will be offering them some money to stay there for the next few weeks. Luckily, her work went WAY ABOVE and beyond. They gave her a check for $1150 to cover what she might need to rent a room for two months AND they gave her a grocery store gift card for $100 to get Thanksgiving groceries. Kindness abounds.
I did get a call yesterday from her mother. I was busy and let it go to VM. She is wanting to know what 'we can do together'. Um, nothing? I got it covered on my end. Thanks. Go live your life and I will live mind. Pain in my ass.
Now, back to the adventure from hell. NEVER AGAIN. A quick recap of the week:
Monday
Movers show up on time (amazing) but unlike the last ones can't seem to get their truck into the spot and end up parking on the street. This adds a delay as they have to take everything an extra 150-200 feet. Doesn't seem much, but when you're carrying a couch, it makes a difference. Plus the fucking moving company told the driver "2 bedroom apartment" even after I told them I had the equivalent of a multi-room home. When the driver showed to look around he immediately was like 'um this is more than I was expecting'. No fucking shit buddy. The problem? The local guys sent him to helpers that were older than me. They were bitching and moaning the whole time and taking like one box at a time. I could have done a faster job. So what should have taken 3 hours took 6. Lovely. But they got it done. When I asked when he thought he would drop off, he said it might not be until the 26th because of Thanksgiving? Are you serious??? I was told the 20th and now you're pushing it out a fucking WEEK?? Ugh. So pissed off about that. After they left, we organized are stuff to go in the car and got to bed early.
Tuesday
Got up and started loading the car. That was frustrating. Things didn't fit where I wanted them. Had to redo things multiple times to get everything working. Then had to get the fish in and setup their power. Then the cats. Whoo boy, the cats. Within the first twenty minutes one had shat themselves and then thrown up. That put a damper on our start. By the time we really started rolling it was after 4:30am. Fun times when you have 900 miles to go. Day one took us through OR, WA, and MT. MT was pretty and pretty boring. Snow, open road, 80 mile an hour stretches. Got to the hotel really late, got everyone inside, and crashed hard.
Wednesday
Day two was a little better. Day two was MT, ND, and MN. Again more empty open roads. We picked up some dramamine for the cats Tuesday night and that helped A LOT to keep them calm. Some early morning issues, but much better day in general. 850 miles total that day. Got to Eagan earlier than the day before. The hotel there had been open only a week and was perfect. They went above and beyond in terms of service. Even so much as loading us up with water and food when we checked out in the morning and not a single charge. I was very pleased with that.
Thursday
Last day of travel. 700 miles through MN, IL, IN, and MI. IL sucked because we had to go right through Chicago and it was bad. Even at noon when we hit it the traffic was a nightmare. We drugged the cats again which helped. We also hit a snowstorm when we hit IN. I was so worried about everything up above the car. I had computer shit in there that I kept stressing over. Got to the house around 6:30pm EST. What a trip. We didn't have much time to really take everything in. My first priorities were cats, fish, then computers. By the time I got all that in it was 9pm and B setup the air mattress and we collapsed. We had planned on bringing our real bed but it wouldn't fit. We ended up bringing our 22" air mattress which is better than nothing, but not so good we didn't look around yesterday for a real mattress. We need one for the guest room anyway.
How's the house? Acceptable. I am having to learn that basements are not 'finished' to my standards especially in a house this old. By that I mean the electrical is wonky, some of the ceiling tiles don't match (it was finished in stages, you can tell), and there's little construction issues that make me go huh? But I love the upstairs. I just wish it had furniture in it. With nothing in it and hardwood floors, it echoes and is cold. It's still snowing here and that's not helping things. But the space is amazing and more importantly, it's silent. Like dear god is it silent. I couldn't ask for anything better. I can't hear shit outside and I love it. My office is an oasis of darkness and silence. People could use it as an isolation chamber. It's awesome.
Friday
Ah yesterday. AT&T was scheduled to be here at 9 so at 7 we went and did some grocery shopping. We stopped for some breakfast and then came back to wait. B went out to get a rocking chair from her mother and some stuff at petsmart. Her dad left us a 30 gallon tank setup and I got the fish all situated in that. AT&T guy showed at 9 on the dot. Impressive. He then looked around, figured out where to drop the fiber, and went to work. Took him a few hours outside as he had to run a brand new drop from the pole and the main box. He got it in, ran it through the ceiling for me, and was ready to go. Until it didn't work. Long story short, his people fucked up and gave him an ONT (the modem) that was still assigned to another customer and wouldn't recognize us. He had tried swapping out multiple things, resetting, rewiring, etc. Finally he got it resolved around 5:30 after being here all day. I gave him the cash in my pocket (about $15) because I felt so bad. He almost wouldn't take it, but I made him. He was thankful and that made me feel good. We did lose the entire day unfortunately. We then tried to go to Walmart for some more household stuff. Never doing that again. This area is truly a 'people of Walmart' world. I hated every fucking second of it. Got what we needed and got the hell out. We then tried to find a mattress somewhere. No luck on that because we wanted it delivered today and it was too late for most stores. We will try again today to see if we can find one. Wish us luck.
First though, we are taking the cats to the vet. One cat has a tooth problem that needs to be resolved now. It's grown into her bottom lip and needs to come out. She is in pain and cranky from it. B has a friend who works in a vet office about 30 minutes away and we're taking the cat there. That's how I will spend my Saturday.
Oh and through all this? I was working. I answered a ton of emails, booked a flight to TN, handled manuals being ordered, dealt with clients and our CBT guy, etc. I told my boss that he owed me one day of non-PTO for this week and he agreed. Instead of taking 8 days for this, I only have to put down 7. Cool. I can handle that.
Time to shower and see about turning on some heat in this place.
Friday, November 16, 2018
Y10 D174
Well here we are. We are in OUR HOME. I am still getting used to it. After driving for 3 days the enormity of this hasn't quite hit me yet. I will say one thing about it so far - IT'S FUCKING QUIET HERE. I can't hear the outside world at all and I love it. There's a few things I am noticing that need addressing, but hey, I have time.
It's snowing right now. Weird.
AT&T will be here at 9. Then I will have real internet. Hotspotting to get basics done.
I PROMISE more to come.
It's snowing right now. Weird.
AT&T will be here at 9. Then I will have real internet. Hotspotting to get basics done.
I PROMISE more to come.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Y10 D173
850 miles yesterday. In Eagan MN. About to leave. 700 miles today. and then we arrive IN OUR HOME. Thank fucking god.
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Y10 D172
905 miles driven yesterday. 850 to go today. Currently in Billings MT. Tonight will arrive in Eagan MN.
Update - the kid's building is still standing! That's ALL we know. We don't know what condition, what things inside look like, how much was lost, etc. We just know the fixture is standing. Hopefully more this week on that.
Let's get rolling...
Update - the kid's building is still standing! That's ALL we know. We don't know what condition, what things inside look like, how much was lost, etc. We just know the fixture is standing. Hopefully more this week on that.
Let's get rolling...
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Y10 D171
And we're off to MT. I will give a much better update tomorrow from a hotel room. No confirmed word on the kid right now. We do believe her building is still standing though.
Monday, November 12, 2018
Y10 D170
Unfortunately we still have no concrete update on the kid's place. The roads are still shut down so no one can get close enough to know the extent of the damage. As of 8pm last night, the fire was 25% contained and moving away from town, however the winds were set to pick back up and who knows what could happen as a result.The kid's coworker offered her a spare room in her house which means she will be able to get to and from work easily. Today she is heading to work then going over there afterwards. She is worried now about money because she is having to buy stuff over again like clothes and toiletries but also has her normal bills coming out. I am really hoping that the management company immediately gives everyone back their deposit and pro-rates their rent. We shall see.
On our front, we busted ass finalizing packing, getting parts needed for the fish, working in the garage, etc. The movers will be here in 5 hours. We got everything out of the office except the stuff that is coming with us. We are going to put the cats in there while the movers are here with a big do not open sign on it. DON'T DEAD OPEN INSIDE? Some of you will get that joke. Others won't. Regardless, we are ready. In 24 hours we will be heading out to MT our first stop. 900 miles of driving with 4 fish, two cats, and a ton of shit. Oh boy.
I just heard someone outside 'howl'. No really. Who the fuck is walking around howling at 3:15 in the morning? Sigh. Humans.
On our front, we busted ass finalizing packing, getting parts needed for the fish, working in the garage, etc. The movers will be here in 5 hours. We got everything out of the office except the stuff that is coming with us. We are going to put the cats in there while the movers are here with a big do not open sign on it. DON'T DEAD OPEN INSIDE? Some of you will get that joke. Others won't. Regardless, we are ready. In 24 hours we will be heading out to MT our first stop. 900 miles of driving with 4 fish, two cats, and a ton of shit. Oh boy.
I just heard someone outside 'howl'. No really. Who the fuck is walking around howling at 3:15 in the morning? Sigh. Humans.
Sunday, November 11, 2018
Y10 D169
Still no confirmed information. We don't know what's going on. Roads are still closed. She did manage to get ahold of her boss who once more told her to take as much time as she needs. When you live in a place like this, I think people have a little more empathy to this sort of thing. Of course, having it be a state of emergency helps too.
We busted our asses all day. Took care of draining down one fish tank, taking down a ceiling fan, replacing original light fixtures, packing, packing, and more packing. This is it. The movers will be here in 28 hours. We've got to be ready. Today the tv comes down. That's going to be fun. I have to work in the garage for a little while to get to the TV box. Also whee.
But in 48 hours, we will be on our way to our HOME. Just that thought is motivation enough for me to be up at 4am getting ready to do stuff. This is going to be an exciting week.
We busted our asses all day. Took care of draining down one fish tank, taking down a ceiling fan, replacing original light fixtures, packing, packing, and more packing. This is it. The movers will be here in 28 hours. We've got to be ready. Today the tv comes down. That's going to be fun. I have to work in the garage for a little while to get to the TV box. Also whee.
But in 48 hours, we will be on our way to our HOME. Just that thought is motivation enough for me to be up at 4am getting ready to do stuff. This is going to be an exciting week.
Saturday, November 10, 2018
Y10 D168
No update yet. I am avoiding the news because it just breaks my heart to see the ruin. Hopefully they will get a grip on the fire today and the kid may get an update. Yesterday though we both had random acts of kind ness bestowed on us (me and the kid) that gave us a little more faith in humanity.
For me it was someone letting me in to the Amex Lounge as their guest so I didn't have to pay the day pass fee. That was important for me because I ended up spending 9 hours in there.
For the kid it was a clerk at Ulta buying her whole purchase for her of $125 in makeup.
I finally got home at 5pm last night. We went and had Indian. Big day ahead of us today and tomorrow. A lot to do.
Let's go do it.
For me it was someone letting me in to the Amex Lounge as their guest so I didn't have to pay the day pass fee. That was important for me because I ended up spending 9 hours in there.
For the kid it was a clerk at Ulta buying her whole purchase for her of $125 in makeup.
I finally got home at 5pm last night. We went and had Indian. Big day ahead of us today and tomorrow. A lot to do.
Let's go do it.
Friday, November 9, 2018
Y10 D167
It's a bad day here. Everything smells like smoke and ash. But it's a worse day for the kid. She's in it again. Last time she was spared, this time doesn't seem so likely. Yes, she is right in the path of the new Camp Creek fire that spread from 20 acres to 18,000 in less than 12 hours. She was at work when the evacuation order came and wasn't back allowed into her new place. She made it to the boyfriends place but her whole life is probably gone. This morning the reports said her town is 'utterly devastated'. I am beside myself with worry and anxiety.
This of course all happened during class. I don't care if I get bad reviews from these people. It just isn't important to me right now.
I am headed to the airport soon. Hopefully the smoke won't cause any delays.
Fuck this world.
This of course all happened during class. I don't care if I get bad reviews from these people. It just isn't important to me right now.
I am headed to the airport soon. Hopefully the smoke won't cause any delays.
Fuck this world.
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Y10 D166
I am getting a hotel cold. Dry throat, scratchy, stuffed up head. Ugh. It's the last thing I need right now. Very uncool. I have some throat drops in my bag so I will be sucking those down today. There really is very little around here too which makes it hard for me to get medicine or anything else. One more day. I can go home tomorrow. If I was really feeling adventurous I could get in the car tonight after class and drive home. But I already have a paid for flight, paid for car service, and next week I am going to drive for three straight days. So no, not going to drive home. Screw that.
Looks like I will be in SoCal for a week in December. Now just to get the TN gig lined up and I will make all my numbers in December. As of right now without TN, I will miss my American status by 5k miles, and the hotel status by one night. The hotel I can deal with, but not the air. I need those miles.
Got through day two without killing anyone which is a miracle since mr I know everything wouldn't shut up or pay attention all day. Everything I said he needed to challenge to prove his superiority. Whatever dude. Just don't come if you don't want to be here.
After I was too tired to do anything so I came back, dinner in the restaurant, tv, video games, bed.
B was busy getting all of her stuff packed. I left her a ton of boxes but apparently she needed more. Ok, whatever. I also heard back from the leasing office. They denied our claim to reduce the lease break fee. I hope you enjoy $10 a month for the next 234 months then people. Because I can't afford much else at this point. It is what it is.
Not much else to say today. Had a good morning chit chat with the kid. Nothing specific. Just shooting the breeze. She is much happier since moving into her new place. She is enjoying her privacy and not having to drive two hours a day. Proud of her on that for sure.
Time to get ready. Have to remember to check in for my flight at some point.
Looks like I will be in SoCal for a week in December. Now just to get the TN gig lined up and I will make all my numbers in December. As of right now without TN, I will miss my American status by 5k miles, and the hotel status by one night. The hotel I can deal with, but not the air. I need those miles.
Got through day two without killing anyone which is a miracle since mr I know everything wouldn't shut up or pay attention all day. Everything I said he needed to challenge to prove his superiority. Whatever dude. Just don't come if you don't want to be here.
After I was too tired to do anything so I came back, dinner in the restaurant, tv, video games, bed.
B was busy getting all of her stuff packed. I left her a ton of boxes but apparently she needed more. Ok, whatever. I also heard back from the leasing office. They denied our claim to reduce the lease break fee. I hope you enjoy $10 a month for the next 234 months then people. Because I can't afford much else at this point. It is what it is.
Not much else to say today. Had a good morning chit chat with the kid. Nothing specific. Just shooting the breeze. She is much happier since moving into her new place. She is enjoying her privacy and not having to drive two hours a day. Proud of her on that for sure.
Time to get ready. Have to remember to check in for my flight at some point.
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Y10 D165
I was thinking last night as I was falling asleep at how horrible I am at keeping in touch with people. I was thinking about it because here I am in the bay area and while I could call or email or text people to possibly say hi and hang out, I literally don't want to. Not that I don't want to see the specific people, I just don't want to see anyone. These trips aren't vacation for me. It's not like I have all day and tons of energy at night. I'm tired and don't want to do much of anything after a long day. But that got me thinking about how over the years I just am not very good at maintaining relationships. Why is that? Is it my own walls that I put up? Is it some underlying lack of empathy or compassion? Am I just an asshole? It's not like I don't ever want to see people. I just get wrapped up in my own world of what's going on that I let other things fall to the wayside. Does that make me a bad person? I don't know. Just the late night pondering mind I guess.
I hate this group. One guy in particular is combative, rude, and just an arrogant asshole who doesn't want to be there. He wouldn't shut up. He wouldn't pay attention. He showed up 35 minutes late and blew me off when I asked him to please show up on time the remaining days. Well fuck you too buddy. He's a big fish in a little pond and thinks he can get away with anything. You have met your match. I snapped a couple of times at him yesterday. And yes, he's fucking Indian. What a shocker, eh? It's this attitude and behavior that I have dealt with for the longest time in my career which is where so much of my racism and personal problems with persons of that background stems. They act like they know everything and some outsider isn't going to tell them shit. Fuck you. I wasn't even supposed to be on the road this week and my attitude sucks because of it already. Two more days of these fucking people.
B finally got back last night. Flight delays in Dallas (gee, what a shock) but she finally got in around 5. She is still on east coast time and ended up going to bed at like 8:30. She didn't have a chance to do anything around the apartment. Dinner, unpack, bed basically.
I had dinner in the restaurant because there's not a whole lot of choices around here. I would have to drive and park if I wanted something cheaper. I am in the middle of the marina and that limits things a bit. Could I have come back, changed, and gone back out? Yeah, but we all know that ain't going to happen.
I haven't checked the news yet this morning. Hopefully everyone did their job and went out and voted. Hopefully the cheeto has some pushback this morning. Let me have some hope in the world, please?
I hate this group. One guy in particular is combative, rude, and just an arrogant asshole who doesn't want to be there. He wouldn't shut up. He wouldn't pay attention. He showed up 35 minutes late and blew me off when I asked him to please show up on time the remaining days. Well fuck you too buddy. He's a big fish in a little pond and thinks he can get away with anything. You have met your match. I snapped a couple of times at him yesterday. And yes, he's fucking Indian. What a shocker, eh? It's this attitude and behavior that I have dealt with for the longest time in my career which is where so much of my racism and personal problems with persons of that background stems. They act like they know everything and some outsider isn't going to tell them shit. Fuck you. I wasn't even supposed to be on the road this week and my attitude sucks because of it already. Two more days of these fucking people.
B finally got back last night. Flight delays in Dallas (gee, what a shock) but she finally got in around 5. She is still on east coast time and ended up going to bed at like 8:30. She didn't have a chance to do anything around the apartment. Dinner, unpack, bed basically.
I had dinner in the restaurant because there's not a whole lot of choices around here. I would have to drive and park if I wanted something cheaper. I am in the middle of the marina and that limits things a bit. Could I have come back, changed, and gone back out? Yeah, but we all know that ain't going to happen.
I haven't checked the news yet this morning. Hopefully everyone did their job and went out and voted. Hopefully the cheeto has some pushback this morning. Let me have some hope in the world, please?
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Y10 D164
I am awake but not yet functional. I only got up this early so I could be awake when B gets on her plane. She boards in about 10 minutes. She has a long day of travel ahead of her. DTW to DFW to PDX. Luckily I worked out a deal with my car company and got them to knock 30% off their regular price for me and she won't have to worry about getting home. Someone will be there to pick her up and one less thing for her to stress about. But she won't get home for at least another 12 or 13 hours. I know that feeling all too well.
As for me, I went to the airport early because I knew if I didn't I would be antsy just sitting around. So instead I sat around an airport. Whee. I got there at 7 and didn't board until 11. Four hours of sitting in the lounge doing nothing. My biggest accomplishment yesterday was watching all of the first season of Barry.
I got here around 1:30pm, had to spend 20 minutes on a shuttle to the rental car, then an HOUR sitting in traffic to go 20 miles to my hotel. It took less then 30 minutes for me to hate being back in this area. This area in particular is worse than others too. In the last three years if I needed to go somewhere I got on one MAYBE two freeways. Here I had to get on 4 different freeways in a span of twenty miles to get to my destination. All of it in stop and go traffic. Fuck this area. Won't miss this one bit.
My hotel is huge. 5 buildings spread out across the marina. It takes like 10 minutes to walk to the main lobby where breakfast will be served. Sweet mother of holy heck. Luckily the client is less than 2 miles from here, no freeway required.
I got here, unpacked, talked with one of my coworkers and walked to a teppanyaki restaurant down the harbor. It was okay. Overpriced for what it was unfortunately. I will probably get yelled at for spending too much money but whatever. Tonight I am going to try and meet up with said co-worker closer to the client. We'll see how that goes.
Home Friday. Just have to get through the next three days of classes. I can do this.
As for me, I went to the airport early because I knew if I didn't I would be antsy just sitting around. So instead I sat around an airport. Whee. I got there at 7 and didn't board until 11. Four hours of sitting in the lounge doing nothing. My biggest accomplishment yesterday was watching all of the first season of Barry.
I got here around 1:30pm, had to spend 20 minutes on a shuttle to the rental car, then an HOUR sitting in traffic to go 20 miles to my hotel. It took less then 30 minutes for me to hate being back in this area. This area in particular is worse than others too. In the last three years if I needed to go somewhere I got on one MAYBE two freeways. Here I had to get on 4 different freeways in a span of twenty miles to get to my destination. All of it in stop and go traffic. Fuck this area. Won't miss this one bit.
My hotel is huge. 5 buildings spread out across the marina. It takes like 10 minutes to walk to the main lobby where breakfast will be served. Sweet mother of holy heck. Luckily the client is less than 2 miles from here, no freeway required.
I got here, unpacked, talked with one of my coworkers and walked to a teppanyaki restaurant down the harbor. It was okay. Overpriced for what it was unfortunately. I will probably get yelled at for spending too much money but whatever. Tonight I am going to try and meet up with said co-worker closer to the client. We'll see how that goes.
Home Friday. Just have to get through the next three days of classes. I can do this.
Monday, November 5, 2018
Y10 D163
So you know how I take surveys to have points for the end of year for Christmas? SOMEONE STOLE ALL MY POINTS. I woke up this morning to an email saying thanks for your redemption. UM WTF?? Almost $300 in points/gift cards gone. I am so pissed right now. I opened a support case, let's see what happens. I changed the password on there. I need to go through and change passwords everywhere. I need a new set. Time to retire some of the old ones. Pain in the ass. All that work for nothing.
Got the bike shipped off yesterday. 10 hours later than it was supposed to go. Also got the BBQ out of here. Gave that to my neighbor's dad.
Leave for the airport soon. Have a day of flying ahead of me.
God I am so pissed I can't see straight. WHY ARE PEOPLE ASSHOLES? Fuck this world. Just fuck it.
Got the bike shipped off yesterday. 10 hours later than it was supposed to go. Also got the BBQ out of here. Gave that to my neighbor's dad.
Leave for the airport soon. Have a day of flying ahead of me.
God I am so pissed I can't see straight. WHY ARE PEOPLE ASSHOLES? Fuck this world. Just fuck it.
Sunday, November 4, 2018
Y10 D162
Happy DST end! I know a lot of you are probably already awake because of the time change. If you're like me you woke up an hour ago, freaked out, looked at your phone, and realized fuck, it's that time of year again isn't it? That was me at 2:55am. I did manage to fall back to sleep thank goodness.
Did some stuff yesterday. Biggest accomplishment was picking up some more boxes in case B needs them this week. I leave tomorrow, and she gets home on Tuesday. Stupid cats have about 36 hours alone to kill each other. Good luck with that cats. I was going to pack some stuff yesterday but every time I looked at something I said, no, B will need that while I am gone. So while we have the boxes, there's still a bunch of shit unpacked. Next weekend will be a scramble but okay.
We did make our hotel reservations for the trip. We will be staying in Billings MT night one, then on to Eagan MN for night two. Arrive day three in MI. The first day will be 900 miles and a bit of a push, but it was the closest place that accepted pets.
B spent the day at the house cleaning and go over things. The previous owner left a shit ton of holes in the walls and didn't bother to patch or paint. Lovely. She is going to get a couple of gallons of paint today and her dad will paint while we're gone. That's one good thing at least.
I am still eating through all the food in here. Had the second to last salmon available. Tonight is the last serving. Whew. I really do wish I wasn't going out of town next week, but we need the work, I need the hotel nights, etc. Once I am done with them though, I am done until nearly the end of the month.
Played some video games, watched some tv. Not much else.
This morning I am supposed to get a call about the bike. They should be picking it up today. I have to go downstairs, move the car, and get things ready. That's my big adventure for the day. I will also be packing up the wine and tonight some of the computer equipment.
We're in the home stretch people.
Did some stuff yesterday. Biggest accomplishment was picking up some more boxes in case B needs them this week. I leave tomorrow, and she gets home on Tuesday. Stupid cats have about 36 hours alone to kill each other. Good luck with that cats. I was going to pack some stuff yesterday but every time I looked at something I said, no, B will need that while I am gone. So while we have the boxes, there's still a bunch of shit unpacked. Next weekend will be a scramble but okay.
We did make our hotel reservations for the trip. We will be staying in Billings MT night one, then on to Eagan MN for night two. Arrive day three in MI. The first day will be 900 miles and a bit of a push, but it was the closest place that accepted pets.
B spent the day at the house cleaning and go over things. The previous owner left a shit ton of holes in the walls and didn't bother to patch or paint. Lovely. She is going to get a couple of gallons of paint today and her dad will paint while we're gone. That's one good thing at least.
I am still eating through all the food in here. Had the second to last salmon available. Tonight is the last serving. Whew. I really do wish I wasn't going out of town next week, but we need the work, I need the hotel nights, etc. Once I am done with them though, I am done until nearly the end of the month.
Played some video games, watched some tv. Not much else.
This morning I am supposed to get a call about the bike. They should be picking it up today. I have to go downstairs, move the car, and get things ready. That's my big adventure for the day. I will also be packing up the wine and tonight some of the computer equipment.
We're in the home stretch people.
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Y10 D161
And lo, it is done. I am now the proud(?) owner of a home in MI that I have never seen or step foot into. That part is just weird to me. I just bought this thing that I owe money on for the next 30 years that I haven't even had a chance to look at. Odd feeling. It doesn't feel real to me yet. It's just something I did.
But boy is it real to B. She spent most of the afternoon and evening over there cleaning. It's been empty since October 8th remember. Lots of dust and the like has built up.
As to the buying process, whoa boy did a bunch of people get an ass chewing yesterday. I am also owed $550. Let's start with the wire transfer. I did talk to the bank on the phone in the morning and they informed me that if I did the wire transfer online, then I would be limited to only being able to do a $5000 transfer the first time. I would have to wait 24 hours before I could do the next one. Not ideal, but acceptable. OR I could go into the branch and they should be able to do the whole thing in one shot. Of course I took door number two. This just meant that B had to sit and wait for about 40 minutes until the bank opened. That wouldn't have been a problem if the title company had done their job right. While I know we used the title company because of B's friend, I would not use them in the future. I feel that they did the worst job out of everyone. First off, they added a fee on that was supposed to be waived (hence the check for $550 coming back to me), then, and this is the big one, they failed to listen to us and put B and the seller in the same room. This is the one that pisses me off the most. Because my poor wife had to sit across from this woman and the whole time in her head think about how this woman lived in our home and how she left her fucking anal beads behind. Yeah, you read that right. If you've been following along, during inspection B found these items of a personal nature and figured they'd be gone before close. Nope. Lovely. On top of that, we took this woman's equity. Like all of it. And now here they had to sit across from each other. I was so pissed off. The seller's title person called me around noon and was extremely apologetic but it doesn't matter. The damage was done. Regardless, we got through the process, and by 9:30am yesterday morning, B had the keys.
Me, I did a bunch of catchup work, packed a couple of boxes, and hung around the house. I went out to a nice celebratory dinner by myself but that was about it.
Today I have to go get a couple of specialty boxes this morning, do some packing, and should be done around noon. I already did laundry and am packed for next week's trip. Oh, speaking of that, it looks like before the end of the year I will have two more trips. One to Knoxville TN, and one back to Pasadena. Cool, I can use the miles.
I also spent time canceling accounts here and setting up new accounts there. We will have gas, electric, and water when we arrive, and the next day internet. We are able to get fiber there which is exciting. Finally have some decent internet speeds. For the same price as here I might add.
Okay, time to get this ball rolling.
But boy is it real to B. She spent most of the afternoon and evening over there cleaning. It's been empty since October 8th remember. Lots of dust and the like has built up.
As to the buying process, whoa boy did a bunch of people get an ass chewing yesterday. I am also owed $550. Let's start with the wire transfer. I did talk to the bank on the phone in the morning and they informed me that if I did the wire transfer online, then I would be limited to only being able to do a $5000 transfer the first time. I would have to wait 24 hours before I could do the next one. Not ideal, but acceptable. OR I could go into the branch and they should be able to do the whole thing in one shot. Of course I took door number two. This just meant that B had to sit and wait for about 40 minutes until the bank opened. That wouldn't have been a problem if the title company had done their job right. While I know we used the title company because of B's friend, I would not use them in the future. I feel that they did the worst job out of everyone. First off, they added a fee on that was supposed to be waived (hence the check for $550 coming back to me), then, and this is the big one, they failed to listen to us and put B and the seller in the same room. This is the one that pisses me off the most. Because my poor wife had to sit across from this woman and the whole time in her head think about how this woman lived in our home and how she left her fucking anal beads behind. Yeah, you read that right. If you've been following along, during inspection B found these items of a personal nature and figured they'd be gone before close. Nope. Lovely. On top of that, we took this woman's equity. Like all of it. And now here they had to sit across from each other. I was so pissed off. The seller's title person called me around noon and was extremely apologetic but it doesn't matter. The damage was done. Regardless, we got through the process, and by 9:30am yesterday morning, B had the keys.
Me, I did a bunch of catchup work, packed a couple of boxes, and hung around the house. I went out to a nice celebratory dinner by myself but that was about it.
Today I have to go get a couple of specialty boxes this morning, do some packing, and should be done around noon. I already did laundry and am packed for next week's trip. Oh, speaking of that, it looks like before the end of the year I will have two more trips. One to Knoxville TN, and one back to Pasadena. Cool, I can use the miles.
I also spent time canceling accounts here and setting up new accounts there. We will have gas, electric, and water when we arrive, and the next day internet. We are able to get fiber there which is exciting. Finally have some decent internet speeds. For the same price as here I might add.
Okay, time to get this ball rolling.
Friday, November 2, 2018
Y10 D160
It's closing day. And it's already off to a rough start. Up until now we have been told "Oh yeah, B can bring a check for the closing costs". Then at 9:30pm I get told she needs a CERTIFIED check OR a wire transfer. WTF?? As for a certified check, the nearest branch is 142 miles away from B. That ain't fucking happening. So I have been up since 4:30 trying to figure out how to get a wire transfer done. Apparently federal law says that a first time wire transfer has a cap of $5000. Closing is $11000. FUCK. So I have to try and go into a branch at 9am to see if this is happening. I am so fucking stressed out. Welcome to my morning.
Yesterday's class went fine. No issues there. Another 13 hour day.
Okay, I have to go deal with all this shit.
Yesterday's class went fine. No issues there. Another 13 hour day.
Okay, I have to go deal with all this shit.
Thursday, November 1, 2018
Y10 D159
Our entire deal almost fell apart yesterday with 2 days until closing. Why? Because the seller's agent lied to us. We were told there was no HOA on this property. However when the closing documents came for review from the title company, all of a sudden there was a line item for $25 for HOA fees. WTF?? All this happened of course right as I was starting class. Not cool man, not cool. I was so pissed off. Long story short, I ended up calling the HOA president directly on our first break and talked to them. While I am not happy, we are not stopping the deal at this point. But if that agent ever tries to make contact with me personally I will have a few choice words for them. I was and still am fuming over this. Odds are we will probably only stay in the house a few years now because of this. Which really fucking sucks but I am not dealing with a fucking HOA. Been there and I will not repeat it.
Class itself went fine. But the hour drive home drove me nuts. I didn't get home until after 6 again after leaving at 5am. Fuck that shit. Thank god this is the last day of it.
Made a quick dinner of some salmon and potatoes because I didn't want to deal with anything else.
Went to bed around 10 and had a rough night of restless sleep.
I am so stressed out right now it's not even funny. I am also done with these cats. They need more attention than I can give right now. They are going stir crazy too and it shows.
This year needs to be done and done.
Class itself went fine. But the hour drive home drove me nuts. I didn't get home until after 6 again after leaving at 5am. Fuck that shit. Thank god this is the last day of it.
Made a quick dinner of some salmon and potatoes because I didn't want to deal with anything else.
Went to bed around 10 and had a rough night of restless sleep.
I am so stressed out right now it's not even funny. I am also done with these cats. They need more attention than I can give right now. They are going stir crazy too and it shows.
This year needs to be done and done.
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