Procedure Update

The day after my pain procedure and I am feeling pretty great.  A few hours after when the local had time to wear off I was pretty sore all around my neck and upper shoulders.  Some Ibuprofen stopped that and I slept really good last night.  They told me I would feel better for at least two weeks.  Maybe I'm the excerption to the rule.  I don't know.  I don't go back for 4 weeks.  I'll ask then.  But I am happy...today.  Oh and the procedure itself wasn't as bad as the tests, it wasn't fun at all but it's over and we will see how it goes from here.

This part is refering to later in the week(Sunday) after my procedure.  The pain has gotten much worse.  The muscles all around my neck and shoulder have tightened up and are very uncomfortable.  I have not been able to find a combination of meds yet that relieves the pain.  Even the muscle relaxer has done nothing.  Consequently I am cutting this short.

In case I don't make it back on before Christmas, I hope you all have a great one.  Hoping and praying for a better year to come.

Happy Trails

First Freeze? Procedure and Leak

The weather guessers predicted the first freeze of the season for our area this morning.  Didn't happen where I am, not even a little frost.  It's 40* here right now.  Who knows when it will happen bit it's getting pretty late in the year.  Sometimes we get frost and a freeze before a much of the area, sometimes we get none when others do.  It's just the way it is living in the hills.  But we still prepare all the tender outdoor plants anyway.  The day we don't is when it does freeze.  Then we have damaged plants that look pretty bad.  

Tomorrow is my procedure on the nerves in my neck.  Things like this don't usually bother me at all.  This one does a little.  Mainly because of the pain I will endure during and after.  The doc assures me I won't like him very much once the local anesthetic wears off.  It can take up to 4 weeks for the results to finally kick in.  After the pain of the two tests I do get second thoughts.  Even though they used a local it was pretty painful.  For something that will only last 1-2 years, is it worth it to go through all that I ask myself.  Especially when ibuprofen handles much of my pain.  Then I have a night like I had last night where the meds don't do much good and I'm ready to get it done ASAP.  I don't have a lot of pain other than when trying to sleep, so it's out of mind at those times.  But after 20 years of this, it is wearing me down.  So I tell myself to suck it up...I don't have to have it done again if it doesn't work out.  There's always neurosurgery...

Did a little plumbing on a sink drain that needed replacing.  We have those stupid cultured marble sinks and counter top that are all one piece.  The sink on my side apparently has a small crack in the marble around the sink drain.  So it leaks.  I pulled all the parts out and got some silicone sealant to use to try and seal the leaky sink.  It's working so far after 5 days.  The alternative is replacing the entire counter top and two sinks.  We aren't ready to do that.  The parts of the sink drain gave me new gaskets so I'm hoping all that will last a while.

Happy Trails

Miscommunication and Christmas Decorations

Due to a miscommincation my ablation did not happen.  They told me I was scheduled for the same test I had 2 weeks prior.  Medicare requires it.  OK, but somehow I did not get the message.  So I was tested again, and again it hurt, in fact it was more painful.  Probably due to my muscles being tense from anticipating the ablation.  The last test I got some immediate relief that lasted most of the day.  Same test this time and no relief, in fact I was in more pain than I was before the test.  I had to go back the next day to discuss the results of the tests.  This entailed them asking me if I wanted to proceed with the planned ablation or considering neurosurgery.  Of course surgery was not an option, yet.  So I told them let's continue with the ablation.  The doc said I will not like him much for a couple weeks after the procedure.  Not what I was expecting.  Evidently having the nerves burned off doesn't relieve your pain immediately.  In fact it takes up to 4 weeks and can be pretty uncofortable during that time.  He said it takes time for the nerves to stop doing their thing.  So we are scheduled to proceed on December 12.  It can't get here soon enough.

Christmas decorating has begun.  'K' has been at it for a few days.  First removing all the Fall decor.  Today the tree is up but not yet decorated.  This is not my thing.  She does an amazing job and am super proud of what she does, but I just don't want to be part of that except to put up the tree of lift a few totes.  

I have pretty much finished my part of the Christmas shopping (thank you amazon).  If I can't buy it online and have it shipped, y'all ain't getting it.  I detest shopping and espcially Christmas shopping.  

Happy Trails

Chilly and Upcoming Week

It has turned chilly the last few days and will be for a couple more.  Still no freeze or even light frost.  No rain either.  It's been pretty spectacular for the most part.  There is also something in the air that is playing havoc with my sinuses, which is typical for this time of year.  

Not a lot planned this week other than my ablation on the nerves in my upper back/lower neck tomorrow.  I'm praying it works as well as they say it will.

Thanksgiving went pretty well.  They ate almost all of my Carne Guisada.  I wish I had made more, not near enough leftovers.  I also made some salsa and it went fast too.  I will make some more soon, I really like this batch.  I smoked/roasted all the veggies.  Mom actually showed up.  She was pretty much her old self.  We think it's a combinnation of the meds and not having the dog to worry about.  Either way it's a good thing.

Today's walk got stopped shortly after it started.  Snickers slipped his harness.  Either he has lost weight or it didm't get put on right which is easy to do.  I called 'K' to help as he runs from us every time.  He saw her car and ran up and jumped in.  Little jerk.  I was still sucking wind pretty hard after running after him so I headed back home with Maggie.  A new harness may be needed if he has lost weight.  

Christmas shopping has commenced.  'K' surprised me with something she actually wants.  She never does that and always leaves me hanging for gifts.  She wants a new laptop since her WIFI has quit on hers.  So we put hers on my desk in the meantime with an ethernet cable connection.  She pointed out one she saw on Utube.  I checked it out and it was a piece of junk.  Son#1 helped me find one while they were here for thanksgiving.  It is now a done deal.  She will just have to deal with the new Windows 11 lol.  I am about finished now, just one or two more things.  

Hope everyone had a great thanksgiving.  

Happy Trails

Oops

I just forgot to post last week.  I got a little confused on what week it was and had already posted.  Nope, wasn't too busy at all.  Wish I could blame it on somethng like that but it's just a brain mur mur or something.  Shrug.  

And it almost happened today too.  I got busy trying to get an inspection sticker for K's car.  It expires this month which is just a few days away.  Here in Texas you need one to renew your registration and get the appropriate sticker.  It really serves no purpose other than inconveniencing drivers.  It is a joke how the inspection is.  Check lights, blinkers, brake lights, back up lights and wipers.  Nothing else.  In and out in less than 5 minutes at the place I use.  They collected their 7 dollars and I was home.  They used to be more stringent.  And the inspectors hate it.  The amount they collect isn't worth their time.  There are quite a few states that have done away with inspections.  The last two legislative sessions have had attempts made at abolishing it.  There are more extensive arguments on abolishing it but I won't get into that here.  I just wish they would cut it.  So we (K) will head to HEB to get a new registration sticker when she heads out for groceries for the upcoming feast.

Thankgiving will be my Carne Guisada by popular vote.  The Grankids wanted it and their parents agreed.  We will also have a batch of King Ranch Chicken to accomodate the non-beef eater.  Both are fairly easy to make.  The Carne Guisada takes mostly just time in order for the beef to simmer long enough to get really tender.  

Surprise of surprises my Mother says she will attend.  I won't hold my breath but she didn't offer excuses like she has for the last 10+ years.  She has pretty much become her old self for the most part ever since her dog passed.  Although she loved that dog very much it caused her a lot of concern and worry, most of it unwarranted.  It pretty much clouded her entire life.  So this will be new territory so to speak with her coming and being around this many family members in my home.  No, she has been here many time before but it's been a very long time and wasn't without Dad and her mental capabilities.  Hopefully she will enjoy herself.  

Happy Trails

Normal Routine Returns

Not much going on this past week and no plans other than the usual things for this upcoming week.  We are definately back into our normal routine since our trip to Ruidoso.  'K' will be off to pick up the Granddaughter and lunch with my sister in law.  So it will be quiet for a few hours until a very active 4 year old arrives.

The White Tail Bucks are in full rut here.  Consequently extra attention to driving in the neighborhood is called for.  They lose all sense of fear of man when in the rut.  They are pretty crazy.  Not to mention I have to be extra careful walking the dogs.  Sometimes they see those small dogs as a threat.  I don't need a 150 lb angry buck with daggers on their head geting mad at me.  We have had some incidents in the neighborhood with walkers and dogs getting hurt by them.  It's easy to cross over the road and not challenge them.

Barring any miracles or sanity the Texas Legislature is winding down another Special Session.  The House side of the legislature is a dumpster fire.  They take 5 day weekends every week and then claim to their constituents they ran out of time.  Don't buy it.  Almost every Republican is a democrat in disguise.  They DO NOT intend to pass any of the meaningful legislation that is beind called for.  What ever has gotten to the Governor's desk is a watered down worthless piece of trash.  Pay attention to houw your Representative votes.  They hope you don't.  And call them on it.

I got nothing else.  Thanks for coming by.

Happy Trails

We're Back

We are back from Ruidoso, new Mexico.  Not all that far from home.  But I found out, I don't tolerate long drives much anymore.  Took a couple days to get over the sore back while there, and I'm still sore from the trip home.  But that allowed me to just chill out on the deck of the house we rented and enjoy the great view.  Below is a panoramic of the view off the back deck.  Click for an enhanced view.  The deck is actually straight, no bend in it at all.

We got a little rain one day but it wasn't significant.  So we stayed inside and I got involved in a board game with the Grandson.  We were able to run into town and try some food.  Another day the ladies wanted to shop around downtown and we went with them.  We offered the kids a hike to some petroglyphs but they weren't interested.  We did take a short drive up one of the mountains to a lookout monument.  With so much altitude, I found out all the walking I do was no match.  While I didn't struggle for air, my legs were like rubber.  Glad it was short.  This is a shot looking West, and as you can see a fire had devastated this area in 2016 but we could see until tomorrow.

One morning we woke to temps at 39*.  We actually enjoyed it after the Summer we had.  The ladies did bundle up since we didn't use a heater.  In the shots below, I have zoomed in on the mountain you can make out on the left side of the pano above.  I think it's called Sierra Blanca.  The first shot is the first day we got there.  The second is the 39* day.  Can you see what I think I see?  Snow?  Pretty cool for this flatland Texas boy.

We saw some wildlife, not a lot but these wild turkeys feeding below the deck were pretty cool.

And a few Elk with this one small bull were something I have never seen in the wild so this was pretty great although no bugling.

There was a little color in the trees which is always nice.  

All in all it was a good trip.  I guess it was a scouting mission for the future.  A little over 500 miles one way and I know I probably won't try that again.  They are already talking about another trip next September and have determined we will break it into two days to get there.  Doesn't sound fun right now with my neck and back still sore.

Happy Trails

Mom's Dog

F|YI-there will be no Post next week unless I get soemthing up later like Friday or Saturday but probably not.

Wow, the weather this morning.  Very cool.  We had 51* this morning.  I had to put on gloves for our walk this morning.  Walking the dogs requires my hands to be out of my pockets.  By the time I get home, my hands are hurting.  Yes, I'm a wimp.  But the cooler air is fantastic and the dogs loved it, got kind of spunky.

'K' has headed over to Mom's to be with her.  All weekend and before we have been dealing with Mom and her old dog.  She freaks out evertime it won't eat.  She doesn't get it that dogs won't eat some times.  But she thinks she is dying.  This time it turns out the dog was having distress breathing.  Vet was visited.  Turns out she has an enlarged heart and it pushes on her already compromised trachea.  Vet gave us a bunch  of meds to help.  Too many for her to dose her properly even with us laying them all out for her and making it easy.  She overdosed her on one and gave her none of the others.  The OD made her lethargic, more freaking out.  Vet visit today to follow up.  Prepared her for the inevitable.  My Brother took her and I don't know how that went but she has crossed the rainbow bridge with a little help.  Mom seems to be handling it much better than we could have guessed considering how attached she was.  Maybe it's the relief on not having to worry about the dog every second.  I don't mean to sound harsh, just trying to make this short as it could get very involved and I don't see a need to do that.  I am sure there will be some issues later with her grieving uncontrollably.  I can only pray.

Tomorrow I head over to the pain managment Doc.  He will hit me with an injection in my spine.  About where my shoulder blades are.  He says that will most likely help with my issue in my neck and shoulders.  He says nost tiime only one shot is needed.  Others maybe 3-4.  One in 2 million chance he messes up and paralyzes me.  And wouldn't you know it, my neck and shoulders have been better than I can remember in a long while.  It seems wierd to ge get pain shots when you have none.  But I do know it won't take much for it to come back.  I just avoid most things that causes a flare up.  Like sitting in from of this PC typing.  So I am going to say...

Happy Trails

Weather and Preparedness

The weather here has been spectacular.  So very pleasant.  Cool dry air with the temps barely reaching 80 but mostly in the 70s.  Sunday brought 58 for the first time since April and it felt sooo very good.  I felt comfortable enough to wear a tie to church for the first time in a while.  Today, Monday, it is getting a little warmer, 63 for a low and our walk was actually a little chilly for shorts.  It doesn't take much for my hands to get very uncomfortable and they did.  But I am not complaigning at all.  Our road trip we will take into even cooler temps.  They have been having temps about 15* lower there.  We whould see some fall color too.  Which really isn't a thing here.

We will begin prepping for our trip soon.  Making a list of things to do before we leave instead of leaving it for the last couple days and then last minute things.  I forget too many things when that happens.  It causes to much stress to do it like we did in our youth.  Something I decidedly try to avoid.  Plus, at my age, there are so many more things I have to add to the list to get done or remember to take with us.  At least it seems like it.

Shifting gears a bit.  Take this as a caution.  I see a lot of speculation and even out right predictions of things that will or might occur here due to the things happening in Israel.  In concjuction with what is happening at the border this heightens my awareness.  Let me explain very briefly.  I have seen many many reports from all sorts of sources about what is and has been coming across the border just 150 miles South of us for the past three years.  Among those that have been apprended and released are military age males, traveling solo, from countries that hate us and have said they will destroy us.  We live in the largest metropolitan area that is closest to the border outside of El Paso or San Diego, but I'm focusing on Texas where the border is longest and most are entering.  There are thousands of these illegal immigrants already here.  I'm not naive enough to think we are safe from nefarious activity.  Yes, we are on heightened awareness and other steps are being taken to protect ourselves.  It may be prudent for you to take some measures also.  These illegals have been moved into the interior all over the country.  Being aware and prepared may save your life or that of your loved ones.  I pray for our country.

Happy Trails

Fall is Promised

We still haven't seen any hint of Fall but at least the temps have been in the mid 90s instead of 100+.  But they say that a cold front is headed our way and will finally bring some wide spread rain Thursday and Friday.  That will be glorious.  They also predict the highs for the weekend to be in the 70's with lows in the upper 50's.  I can hardly wait.  

'K' took my Mother to a cardiologist finally.  She had been told she should see one by her previous doctor.  The current doctor didn't think so but agreed to refer.  Once they were there she couldn't remember what she needed to tell him what she had been experiencing.  'K' didn't remember either but that is understandable with her trying to remember everything else for her and us.  Mom couldn't remember family history either.  Fortunately the doctor checked her out and found no issues and said she is the healthiest 91 year old he has ever seen.  This still might not be enough to keep her from obsessing over her heart.  Like most everthing she doesn't remember things correctly and has told us things she suffers from with her heart that I know good and well isn't anything she has ever had.  She has transposed some of her Mothers heart issues upon herself and claims her sister has the same things which we know she doesn't.  Unfortunately her memory and her reasoning ability has not improved.  I know it never will.  We have been forced to take precautions with her finances.  She agreed but she may not even remember which is actually a good thing.  She has a suitor.  He is my age.  It's more complicated than I feel comfortable sharing here.  Just know that she makes it difficult for us to be able to help.  

Soon we will head out on a week long road trip. The weather there will be much much cooler.  This Saturday when Son#1 comes to watch the Red River Shootout, we will talk about the details of the trip, i.e when we leave, route, etc.  We are all looking forward to this trip the closer it gets.  This is much needed.

Happy Trails

Hot Still

This comes a little later than I intended to post this morning.  I took my sweetie out for tacos/breakfast this morning.  I get tacos she gets a full Mexican breakfast plate of which may vary with her.  Chiliquiles this morning.  It was pretty great so that will always take precedence.

I see that other parts of the country are getting some Autumn weather.  All we are getting is Hotumn.  But 98/99 is better than the 102/105, until it gets as humid as it has been the last few weeks.  Apparently there were stroms in the area last night.  We got a lot of lightning and barely any rain sadly.  The cloud cover is hanging tough and should keep temps down but it is so very humid, about 80%.  That road trip we are planning is getting closer and it will definately be cooler there.  It can't  come soon enough.  Sadly this will take the place of our Bluegrass Festival trip we like to go to.  Some really great stars that we will be sad to miss.  But hope to have an even greater time with family.

'K' has headed out to get the Granddaughter to stay a couple nights.  She will leave early as 'K' has a couple Doctor appointments she needs to get completed.  

Sadly another one of my coworkers passed away Sunday morning.  Lost his battle with cancer.  I had just found out a week earlier he was having these issues.  There have been several over the last couple years that came as a surprise.  But this one hits harder.  I had a lot of respect for him.  I was trying to count up the number that have passed since I worked with that particular group.  11 that I know of out of the original 21+/-.  Most of us were all within a couple years of age except the bosses and secretary.  Only one of the original supervisors still survive and he is not well.  Most of the  others passed fairly early in years.  More than should have.  Not being in touch with them, these things come as a surprise most times.  I do have one or two that will let me know about things like that.  Or an email will go out from the retirees group.  Fortunately I have good memories of this one.  

Happy Trails

Weather Gets Cooler-Only the 90's

Finally a turn in the weather.  The relentless scorching heat seems to be gone finally.  We have a had a couple days in the low 90's but the humidity has risen considerably due to rain in and around the area.  It just misses us every time so far.  But we hold out hope since there is still a chance.  

Mom's doctor did give her some meds to help prevent any more mental decline.  But as we feared, what's lost is lost.  Can't be fixed.  The meds she got are somewhat complicated to take for the first month.  They have a color coded package that should make it easier.  But she confuses days now to.  So I have bought her a didgital calendar that has the day prominently displayed.  She got new glasses and those are now a problem and she calls continuously about them.  It is an involved subject as most things are with her.  For such a simple life she has the complaints have increased exponnentially.  Things come out of her mouth now that most polite folks would never say in public.  Nothing vulgar yet but mostly critical of others.  Although she has said sh-t while talking to 'K'.  She has never used foul language before.  It seems to be something that is increasing.  She would be horrified if she was aware. Fortunately she doesn't get out much.  We did check with the assisted living section and memory care area of her facility.  They were very helpful and like I had thought she is not at that level care yet.  She is healthy as anyone at 91 years old could be.  So she wouldn't be approved for a move, even though she wants to.  They have no room anyway.  And they are even more expensive, prohibitive in fact.  So that is something on the horizen that will have to be dealt with.

I met with my doctor again regading the issues I have with my cervical spine and left arm and shoulder.  He is refering me to a Pain Management doctor.  He tells me we will try injections to help alleviate the pain and is getting me an anti inflamatory  that should help some.  He says it is sort of a trial and error with how effective the injections are.  We will have to wait and see.  The next step is neurosurgery.  I will do all I can to avoid that.  

Happy Trails

Dentist Again and Mom Doctor Visit

Not a lot going on for the last week and have nothing of signifcance for this week.  I do have an appointment with the Dentist Wednesday.  I have had a couple teeth that have had the enamel just fall off.  Not chewing anything hard so not real sure what happened.  One will get bonding and the other two some minor grinding.  The Xrays did not reveal the crack I am sure I have so we wait until it gets worse it appears.  Just like the last one that became so painful.  

My Mother has an appointment with the doctor Wednesday also.  She has suddenly agreed to see him about her memory.  Every appointment has been about her memory but she doesn\t remember that.  The sudden interest is due to a long time friend that has been visiting her and asked her why she wasn't on a particular medication.  Of course she had no idea why she wasn't.  She has refused to take the MRI that would determine the course to take.  Now she is all about taking it because she got this suddenly new information from a trusted friend instead of her own children.  And that's the key I think.  We are just her childrenm what do we know.  Frustrating to say the least but we are taking advantage of it and preparing her for the visit and that an MRI will  be required.  She says that it won't be a problem.  She has no memory of all the trouble she gave us about taking the MRI it first time around.  IF there is a long enough wait between the doctor visit and the MRI she may change her mind again.  The friend is frustrated with us as she thinks we didn't know about this medication or were just not giving it to her or  seeking help.  We explained to her what has happened in the past but it seems to make not make it in to her brain either.  She got involved with my Mother's dog problems we have addressed in the past because she wants to help but only hears Mom's side.  I appreciate her concern and only wants the best for her but she needs to learn to listen to us and understand she doesn't get the full story from Mom.  We realize she only hears the very emotional side of Mom.  Yes, we know it's none of her business but we try to be kind to others.  But there may come a point.  

Happy Trails

The Blessing of Rain

Finally got a little rain last week.  Just short of one inch.  This was due to a storm that came in from the Gulf of Mexico.  We were hoping for much more.  We were on the outer bands of storms that came through North of where the storm hit.  It was ever so good and it cooled things down a bit too but not for long, nor was it near enough rain.  We have been back up in the 100+ temps since then with Sunday being a scorcher at 103 with dead air and high humidity.  Then a weak cool front moved through in the evening threatening rain.  It cooled down quickly from 103 to 78 a couple hoours later.  Very welcome relief but '0' rain.  All we got was the pleasant smell and the cooler temps.  The rain we did get last week came the day before it was my 'allowed' watering day.  I watered regardless of the rain.  It helped green up the little grass I have left.  With that the deer that have been very scarce were out in force, eating the newly green shoots.  The habitat is severely stressed after at least 2 years of drought and severe freezing temps in the winter.  Everything gets eaten by the deer, even the deer resistant plants if they have any green on them.  I have put out a tub in the yard with water in the yard fo the deer.  I rarely see them use it but it will be nearly dry come morning.  The wildlife are stresssed.  More high heat is expected this week also but some rain is possible.  Fingers are crossed.  

They are predicting a very cold winter for our area this year.  It includes a lot of moisture also.  Having gotten one major concern taken care of with the trees and their limbs resting on my roof when they get icy, we are looking to get a generator.  I have one picked out,  It won't run the whole house but at least we can run some small heaters and the refrigerator.  Having a place to store it and then run it when needed is what we are working on now.  It is a dual fuel and has a CO2 sensor that shuts it off.  With the grid here in Texas not being reliable and even less so in the winter, this will be a good investment.  At least that is what I tell myself.  

Happy Trails

Trees Again

I had been concerned about the trees at my house for awhile.  We have between 40-50 Live Oak trees.  They range in sizes and all were here when we moved in 30+ years ago.  About 5 years ago I hired a guy to trim them up.  Layed out some serious cash to get it done.  We were pretty happy for the most part, but he did short the job.  He needed to be somewhere else and rushed to finish.  So I have been shopping around for folks that would trim them again.  After the 3 hard freezes, especially last year, they were in some serious need.  I was mostly concerned about cutting back the large trees that were growing over my house.  These are really big trees with some very large limbs.  They were bent down and laying on the roof with heavy ice cover this past winter.  I wanted to get that stuff cleared away.  They came out this past week and oh my, what a great job they did.  They certainly didn't short me.  And last week was the hottest temps we have had so far, 105+.  It was a crew of 4.  Two cutters and two dragging and cleaning up and throwing everything in the chipper.  The two were apparently husband and wife.  Yes, wife.  She did most all of the climbing going up and down with a rope harness.  To say the least I was very impressed.  They cleared enough limbs that it should last much longer than the last time.  They found an old hollow limb that was huge and was eaten up with ants.  It humg driectly over the house and would have caused some seriouos damage.  It may have been 24" in diameter at the trunk.  Seeing the cut logs I am very surprised that it didn't fall during the ice storm last winter. 

The teenage Grands were here for two nights and it went very well thankfully.  'K' has gone to take my Mother to the doctor.  She will take notes for her since she never remembers his intructions etc and always argues with whoever goes with her about what was said.  Hopefully her notes will help.  Next option is to video the appointment if this doesn't work.  The doctor will allow that.  Hopefully it goes well and she can remember some of it.  But that seems unlikely as her memory seems to be fading even more.

Well, it's lunch time and I am going to eat some left over Carne Guisada I made.

Happy Trails

Mom Visit

I made a visit to my Mother last week.  First visit in a couple months.  It went well.  I made sure 'K' was there with me.  It helps the situation in that I am not the only one trying to have a conversation with her.  But neither of us had much to say any way.  Just like my posts here.  There just isn't much going on lately.  I was very surprised, almost shocked at how much weight she seems to have lost in that time.  She says she weighs the same but you never know if she is remembering correctly.  'K' didn't notice, but not having seen her in a couple months it was very noticeable to me.  She has a doctor appointment in couple weeks.  Maybe we can get a true weight then.

The teenage Grands will spend next weekend with us.  So the routines I am accustomed to will be disrupted.  Two nights is more than usual.  We will make the best of it. 

I have been thinking about the DOJ appointing a special counsel to investigate the Bidens corruption.  Normally I would think this is a great thing.  But these aren't normal times.  I don't trust or believe much of anything that comes from DC sadly.  I wonder if there is a motive other than justice.  Sort of a cover up, do the investigation and come up with nothing.  Nothing to prosecute.  Then the Republicans have nothng to go after them for.  As if they would.  I also believe that every one of the Republicans should be horrified at the persecution of Trump.  If they are successful in their pursuit of him and getting him thrown in jail or something else that keeps him from running for President, they will be emboldened and every republican running for the office in the future will meet similar persecution.  They have no intention of ever cedeing power again.  Proof, just look at our border situation and all the future socialist votes coming in.  Our government is broken.

Sorry to end in a down note but...

Happy trails

No Relief

As they say, There is nothing new under the sun.  And sun we have an abundance of.  August is traditionally the hottest month of the year in this part of Texas and it is showing that truth this last week and predicitions are for even higher temps this week.  El Nino or Nina is having a big effect on us.  Consequently not much gets done here and we don't really go anywhere except to church or to maybe get a bite to eat.  The youngest Granddaughter will come today for a couple nights.  Her Mom starts school today so she has her hands full and we are a distraction to the little one missing her.  She loves to be outside here.  We have to distract her with other things so we can stay cool.

Wouldn't you know it, the AC quit yesterday around 4 PM.  I got a message on my phone from my thermostat that there was a power disconnect.  I have no idea what I am doing with power but I did look in the AC closet and there was a red light on the moisture dector.  That thing will cut off the AC when the drain tube gets backed up so it doesn't fry something important.  The AC company showed me how to reset it so it would work again after the tube gets cleared out.  The tube was not stopped up so I reset and nothing happened.  I left it unplugged and within a few nimutes it started running again.  Yahoo!  I called the AC company and left a message so I could get them out to check it out.  This was all Sunday.  I just got off the phone with them and I explained what is going on.  Since it's working and cooling they don't coonsdier it an emergency and can get someone out Friday morning.  This is a very busy time for them.  The person that called say they have a lot of people calling, mostly elderly with AC's that have quit.  That is their first priority thankfully.  If it stops again they will then consider it an emergency.  Hopefully it stays on during this hottest week yet.  At least the humidity has eased and it is bearalble to be outside for short periods.  Praying for some relief from the heat and the drought.

Happy Trails 

Monday July 31, 2023

The Doctor appointments have been put in the past.  Still waiting on lab results, they should be in today, but you never know with this bunch.  Curious about my blood A1C results.  It tells how well I have been doing with controlling my blood sugars.  I expect that to not be very good.  It's been a struggle this last year.  They have also scheduled me for an MRI on my neck(spine) due to all the issues I have with it.  Once that is in it, will be sent to someone that will do the injections.  The Urologist was pleased with my numbers and I should only have one more year for checking for return of prostate cancer.  I am considered cured, but there is always a chance for return with cancer.  I am grateful for what it is now.  'K' is at the Doc today for her annual.  Hoping that all goes well for her.

The African dust has subsided.  I am not convinced it is gone completely.  Even the pups were coughing and sneezing last night.  But we did go for a walk/exercise early this morning and there appear to be no ill effects.  It was nice to get out despite it being pretty warm and the pups loved it.  

Don't have much else, nothing has really changed with my Mom.  Although she is complaining more (about everything) than before it seems.  I need to go see her.  It's been quite a while and the reasons I have talked about I won't go into again.  I really don't look forward to seeing that 'look' in her eyes when she sees me.  Having 'K' along relieves a lot of that so I won't go without her.

Happy Trails 

Doctor Concerns

Heading out or a blood draw/labs in the next few minutes.   At the doc appointment they expressed concern about some episodes I have had the last couple months that appear to be low blood sugar or dehydration.  I am leaning toward dehydration.  I just don't drink enough water and that's not good, especially for a diabetic.  We dehydrate much easier than nondiabetics.  When I test my blood at home the sugars are not low. But those meters are not super accurate.  

I will also get scheduled for an MRI of my neck.  I have three compressed disks that make it difficult to sleep.  So we will probably look to get injections.  They will use the MRI to determine where exactly.  I don't know much about these injections and will need to learn more.  But if it helps me avoid surgery it will probably be a go.

I will see the urologist tomorrow.  I've already seen the blood results.  No detectable cancer.  Always good news.

Happy Trails

Same Ol' Same Ol'

It's that time of year that nothing really changes, especially the weather here in this part of Texas.  Even the weather guessers talk about how the forecast never changes and are running out of new things to say.  They will grasp at any hint of a shower to talk about no matter how slight the chances are this time of year.  It's July and it rarely rains then.  Of course there have been some exceptions and those will always happen.

And nothing much is going on with us either.  Just staying out of the heat for the most part and running a very few errands.  I do have a couple of appointments with my Primary Care Doc and my Urologist this week and next.  This includes labs for each.  There should be no surprises but then you never know for sure.  It will be my yearly Wellness exam with the Primary care doc and I have a few questions to ask, so I have made a list.  Turned 70 this year and it's like a switch was flipped on several bothersome things that I want to talk about, nothing major but I do want to talk about a heart issue.  My diabetes has been harder to control since I had Covid last year.  Numbers are rising and sensitivity to foods has increased.  The appointment with my Urologist is a follow up to my prostate cancer 9 years ago.  He also manages my 'T' levels.  I think one more year and he will release me.  Should be fairly painless.  

I really don't have much else and this wasn't much either so I will say:

Happy Trails

Tires(again) and Tomatoes

Just got back from Discount Tires.  Another 3 tires put on the Explorer.  I have actually bought cars for less lol.  The fourth tire was replaced a couple months ago due to it having had to many flats(3) and they would not repair it again.  I always purchase Michelins.  I immediately noticed a better ride and quieter too.  The tires that were on there were on it when I purchased the car.  A brand I never used before and never will again, Hankook.  

The tomatoes are slowing production.  Picking one or two every other day now.  We are getting a little tired of eating so many lol.  Take a look at this bad boy: (Click the pic to get a close up)

1.42 lbs of fresh tomato deliciousness.  I made a quart of salsa with some of his little brothers the other day.  The recipe calls for 5 Romas.  They are less juicy and considerably smaller.  I used 3 of what my gardens produce including a couple of my small onions.  It made much more than I anticipated and much juicier.  I can say the ones I have grown this year are much juicier and as you can see much bigger.  They do have a draw back, the meat can be a little grainy but it's not enough to make them bad.  I have eight or nine sitting on the counter waiting for me to eat them before they go bad.  I try not to place them in the fridge, the consistency changes considerably and I don't like them much at all.  They get a little too cold and almost freeze from what it looks like even though I had the temp set at 37*.

Mantis stepped up and will trade me out the laser cartridge I got stuck with and is sending me a 9mm.  I had to buy the 9mm and when I get the other one sent back to them they will refund the purchase.  The other one arrives today and I hope to get the one I need to send back sent out tomorrow.  I need the get some packaging and  tracking number.

I need to go mess with the Granddaughter while she is here.

Happy Trails

 

A Little PEW PEW Practice...or So I Thought

July is starting out weird.  I got a pretty neat present from 'K' for Christmas.  Have you seen those Mantis Laser kits?  They allow you to practice with your firearm using a laser that is inserted in the barrel through the breach not the end like some are.  You can get them in several calibers.  'K' heard the advertisement on the radio and thought it was a great gift for Christmas.  I was aware of them but never paid any attention to it.  I just wouldn't spend that on myself.  

I finally got it out and planned to practice with it and get 'K' out there too.  I was setting up in the garage where we would have adequate room and the neighbors couldn't see and freak out.  Tried to insert the laser cartridge and it isn't working.  As you can see from the above photo the laser cartridge (brass thing) appears to be next to the 9mm on the right.  At least that is what I thought.  I look at the cartridge itself and oops, 40mmSW.  That won't fit in a 9mm and I don't own a 40mm anything.  After a few back and forth emails Mantis and their suggestions about getting in touch with the gun store (gone out of business) it was purchased from they asked for the UPC code on the box.

Ugh, 40 mm SW.  I apparently am out of luck.  I thought it had been packed incorrectly.  Not so.  The gun shop screwed up by giving 'K' a kit for 40mm and she bears no fault.  I probably would have done the same just looking inside and not the UPC code.  So this thing is an expensive door stop unless I buy another laser cartridge.  I would have bought at least another caliber to go long with the 9mm I have or maybe two to use in my other firearms.  I hadn't planned on 3.  Maybe one for now so I can at least use this thing.  

Lesson?  When you get a gift, check it out and verify what you got is correct and useable.  

July 4 is our 48th Anniversary and we will head over to the preacher's house where anyone from our church is invited.  Hot dogs, hamburgers and every kind of desert you can imagine is on the menu.  They do this every year (except) for the pandemic years.  There is always a great turn out.  It will be hot but I don't plan on moving around much and make sure I have cold drinks.  I can always go home early too.  This is what 'K' wants for our anniversary so she gets what she wants.

Happy Trails

It's HOT

We have had some record breaking heat in this area.  I seem to keep saying that the last few years but it's true.  In the city to my South they have had 5 straight days over 105 that broke records every day.  Fortunately we haven't had those high temps.  At times I find my thermometer 10 degrees lower, thankfully.  I have my sensor in a new location I am trying out in order to get more accurate readings.  I found out it had been in the direct sun for a few moments in the hottest part of the day.  That certainly won't be accurate.  We shall see how the new location works out.  But it's not unusual at all for us to be much lower than in town or higher at times.  It's crazy.

I have had an abundance of tomatoes lately out of the garden.  Most are very huge.  But I'm not sure I like those as much.  The meat seems a little grainy.  I managed to can 8 pints of tomatoes yesterday in order to keep them from going bad or 'K' giving them all away before I have had a chance.  I will use them for the salsa I make.  I don't have a canner so I use a process I found on utube.  It worked great last year, not sure if it worked this time.  I didn't hear the can lids popping when they sealed but with my ears that isn't surprising.  'K' said she heard something but didn't know what it was.  I guess I will find out.  

I will head over to Academy today and pick up some things that need to be replenished and maybe run by my Mother's for a quick stop.  I haven't seen her in probably two months.  I really can't tell you why but she gets a little off when I show up and it's better for her and me if I keep those visits few and far between.  However she has started complaining to others I don't ever come by.  It's a sad situation.  I am not looking forward to it.

Happy Trails

Hot Weather and Tomatoes and Clearing Out Clutter

Been pretty hot here this past week.  102* Thursday evening about 6:30.  An hour later it was down to 93.  On top of that we have high humidity from all the rain we had in previous weeks.  This heat will finally dry us out some and the humidity will drop.  It's a two edged sword.  These are pretty high temps here for this time of year.  

The tomatoes are doing great.  I have very big ones this year.  Some new breeds (to me) since I couldn't find my usuals.  We have more than a few waiting to be consumed.  Well that is until 'K' gave most of them away Friday to the pest control guy and the neighbor that showed up with some herbs she wanted to share.  I had planned on using them for salsa but no one asked me.  It will be at least a week before I pick anymore.  Then this heat will stop the development of more.  A little too early in the year for that.  They usually stop around July 4.  

The battle against clutter continues.  We moved on from the garage to my office that has been a catch all since the start of moving my Mother.  Tons of photos are being sorted and boxed.  We just need to find where we will store those,  It WON'T be the garage.  In the decluttering I have found some room in a small closet in my office.  There are two other small closets in the hallway that I would prefer they move to.  But 'K' says she decluttered those a couple years ago.  You can gather a lot of clutter in two years is what I was thinking without saying it of course.  It's funny how she has always said she has no problem throwing stuff out but I don't.  She is right for the most part.  I am pretty sentimental and keep things from my Grandparents.  But most of the things she throws out are my things lol.  She is really not interested in getting rid of all the left over components and beads (you have no idea) from her business.  She has been out of that business since 2012.  I think it's time.  She has no answer, just that she is not ready.  

Happy Trails

Unbelievable

I admit I don't understand all this debt limit issue with the budget.  I held out hope that the Freedom Caucus could put enough pressure on Speaker McCarthy and the rest of the RINOs to hold out for more spending cuts and in fact, add no more debt.  But alas, the taxpayer takes it in the throat again.  The uniparty is alive and well.  It still is to be seen if the Freedom Caucus will punish McCarthy.  They have that new rule that only one member can initiate a call to remove him from the Speaker office.  If they don't, that rule they negotiated and every other concession McCarthy made to get the Speakers role is meaningless.  

On another note, I went to get a couple new tires for 'K's CR-V.  The current tires are 9 years old(one is 7 years old).  We don't drive it far.  It may not be driven for a week or more at times.  Being a front wheel drive and me not keeping up with the rotation, the two on the front were in need of replacement badly.  So I headed over to Discount Tire to get a pair.  Four were going to be just too much $$ at the moment.  After their inspection they found something I missed.  One of the rear had severe dry rot.  Ugh.  After some discussion I left with 4 new tires.  Just over double what I paid for the ones I replaced, exact same tire.  From 450 for four to 990.  Ouch.  And I really need to replace three on our other vehicle.  

I could let the other vehicle wait a while longer and they are still serviceable.  However, we have committed to a vacation road trip with Son#1 and his family in late October.  I really want better tires for that trip than these with 35K miles on them,  I never liked these tires anyway.  So around early October I may be replacing them too.  I just want a vacation that is a little less worry free.

We had a quick violent storm Friday night.  Lots of loud thunder and lightning.  Must have been some very high winds.  There were a lot of fresh oak leave all over the yard.  That is usually a sign of hail/high winds.  I do not believe any hail fell thankfully.  but the high wind was enough to knock that very big limb down that I have been ben concerned about.  It had broken during the big ice storm we had a few months ago and I could not reach it.  One less thing to be concerned about.  It could have easily gone through a window on that side of the house.  It is now firewood.  I will still need to hire someone this fall to cut back the many limbs that hang over my roof.  

Happy Trails

Total Disgust

I tried to watch the Texas State House proceedings on Saturday when they convened to consider impeachment of the Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton.  What a complete waste of time.  In short, this was nothing but a witch hunt dreamed up but the current Texas Speaker of the House.  Some call him a RINO.  I think it's worse than that.  I believe he is a Democrat that runs as a Republican in order to gain his office.  The impeachment is more than just retaliation for Paxton's call for the speaker's resignation after videos of him appeared online.  These videos show that he is not in control of his faculties.  He appears drunk while conducting business as speaker of the house of the Texas legislature.  They say that that was in and of itself and illegal act.  If it was, where were those that enforce the law and why wasn't he removed from office instead of being asked to resign.  What a joke.  60 So called republicans sided with the speaker to vote for impeachment.  While many think Texas is a conservative state, they obviously don't follow what happens in this RINO house of representatives.  But I digress.  I believe the main reason for this sham is that 'they' are after Paxton due to his efforts against the Biden administration.  He had been very successful and has other things still in the works.  They want him gone and they orchestrated this BS.

How did my representative vote?  NO.  This is the first time I have had a true conservative that actually represents my views.  

Not feeling very Happy Trails today.  Thanks for coming by.

Morning Routine Changes

With the weather getting warmer my 'schedule' is a bit off.  I have been waking around 5:30 AM (sometimes much sooner) and will doze until 6 or 6:30.  Usually pain will force me to get up sooner than I want.  'K' also will get up about the same time.  She doesn't sleep well either and then there are the dogs that just wait for any movement or sign of life to jump on us.  Once that happens any additional sleep will NOT happen.  We have been taking advantage of the early get up times to get the dogs walked before the heat hits.  Times for that will get even earlier as the heat increases.  Not sure 'K' will tolerate walking before the sun rises like I have done in the past.  I hope she does.  It's been cool but also very humid.  It's pleasant but we get pretty sweaty anyway due to the humidity that has been running 80-90%.

We have pretty much finished with the garage clean out.  There is a lot more room but not near as much as I had hoped.  With all the rain we have had I have been cutting the grass more often.  And the Bermuda seed has been sprouting and starting to fill in bare patches of the yard.  The deer seem to be eating some of it, the newer sprouts from what I can tell.  Not a lot I can do about that.  Way too many deer and I don't stay outside long enough to chase them off.  I am thinking about getting one of those motion detector sprinklers to help keep them away.  Not sure I want to spend 70$ for that.

The 4 year old Granddaughter will be here starting Thursday and will be here at least through Sunday maybe Monday.  That is usually a good thing but we haven't had her that long before.  But the parents have a show in Houston they need to be at and she certainly would not enjoy that while they work.  We are happy to oblige, especially since Mom will be home from school for the Summer and we will get her less than usual.  

Happy Trails

My Heart Breaks

Once again I find myself forgetting to write a post.  I get busy with a chore or two and it keeps going for the better part of the day.  Thus this blog gets forgotten.  My foggy brain?  Maybe.  So what was I doing this time?  Still working on clearing out the garage for the most part.  I am making headway.  A little at a time.

Hope all the Mothers had a great Mothers day.  Ours was pretty quiet.  We had gone over to Son#1's on Saturday.  He grilled some steaks and we had a good time visiting.  We came home after church on Sunday and ate some of my homemade enchiladas and not much else.

On that note, things have not gone very well with my Mother over the last couple weeks. I think her mental abilities have declined some more.  She is now transferring memories, if that is what it's called.  Things that actually happened but she insists it was someone else when it was actually her.  And of course it's a very bad memory.    It is heart breaking.  'K' is at the doctor with her this morning.  She has not allowed anyone to go with her the last two visits.  We don't even know what the doctor told her or med changes he prescribed or why.  Then she will call 'K' and have her call the doctor's office to ask them what they told her to do.  This time 'K' told her she would be there to go with her and there was no argument.  I am not sure if she was even aware that she didn't let her go before.  But we need to find out what he says/prescribes.

Happy Trails

Garage Clean Out

We have been cleaning out things in the garage lately.  It is crammed full of things we don't or rarely ever use.  That storage has hopefully changed.  We have filled at least one of those 96 gallon trash cans with mostly things that were in the garage.  There are still a lot of things that need to go.  We work on one area at a time trying to free up space.  We are seeing some progress.  There is still much that needs to be tossed.  This will take multiple days/weeks.  Once the trash can gets semi full we stop in order to have space for our regular trash.  And then it starts all over again.  The real trick will be when we get to the shelves of things left over from 'K's' business.  If we can make a big dent there we can proceed with other plans.  No, I'm not picking on 'K,' I have my own share of things, tools and hardware I rarely ever touch anymore but I find very hard to turn lose.  There will almost always be a need at one time or another for a tool or hardware to repair things around the house.  But I am tossing some.  Miter saws (the hand variety) a couple other hand saws I have never used and a few other things I still have not gone through.  Especially random hardware.  I am finding so much of that that was always saved for later then more was bought since I didn't remember I had it or couldn't find it.  I am so bad about doing that.  But the less I try to undertake now days. and hire it done, the less I need or collect these things.  Hopefully.

I need to head out to the grocery and to Home Depot today.  The plan for HD is not to buy anything I will have to store in the garage.  LOL.  I do need some root killer for my Septic System.  I will try to find something other than the copper sulfate I have used in the past.  I am not sure that doesn't degrade my concrete tank.  The last time I had it pumped that there was a big Sulphur smell when they opened the lid.  They had no idea why it did that but I remembered I had used copper sulphate numerous times previously.  The concrete lid was brittle and fell apart and seemed to have a yellow cast to it.  I will look for something different.

Happy Trails

Spectacular Weather

The weather here has been pretty great.  Beautiful days.  But it has been a mix with some rain.  We missed getting much with the recent storms that saw some huge hail all around  us but nothing but a sprinkle here.  We did get a few more dead limbs from that freeze fall out of the trees from the winds.  The big ones are still hanging on.

We drove up to Bandera to visit with some long time friends we don't get to see much.  They offered to feed me ribs so I accepted.  This is my SPECOPs friend that I learn a lot from.  So down to earth for such a brilliant mind.  You can't help but like him.  And his wife compliments that.  We don't get to see them as much as we like as he is so busy doing doctor stuff.  The visit was great but we do get into talking about the things that bother us about how our world is going.  We are of like mind in that regard.  Neither of us stress too much about the things we can't control.

I've been pretty busy with minor chores around the house.  This cool dry weather just increases my energy somehow.  I start passing out on the couch even earlier than usual.  But I feel pretty good for some one with so many health things being an issue.  For that I am so very thankful and am reminded to give thanks in my prayers.

The youngest Granddaughter is here for a couple days and has been here off and on a little more than usual.  Her Dad is at a show in Las Vegas promoting his self published works and with Mom a teacher it doesn't work out so well for a four year old.  But we are glad to have her, she brightens things around here and makes us smile a lot.  What a blessing she is and has been.  

Things seem to be going OK for my Mom.  We have no real idea how her doctor visit went since she won't let any of us attend.  The transcript we wanted was useless.  It didn't even list the appointment scheduled for today.  Fortunately they call us as a reminder.  She is going to this one today by herself also.  We try to get her to write things down to ask the doctor about such as refills on meds etc.  She can't really tell us anything about her visit or about the meds he prescribed.  She absolutely doesn't want any of us there for those visits.  So we have to just turn her loose for now, there isn't much we can do without stressing her out more and causing heartache.  At least that is how it will go for now.

We are off to Costco with a huge list.  Chaching $$$

Happy Trails

Nothing Much-Grass Seed-Garden

It has been pretty quiet around here, just mundane chores around the outside mostly.  I have some Bermuda seed planted in the bad spots in the yard.  It has finally made an appearance after almost 2 weeks.  Thanks in part to the mixture of some rain and sunshine.  However it is not as abundant as I had hope for.  In the past all I did was broadcast it on the bad spots and watered it daily.  I did the same this time yet results are not as prolific as previous.  Evidently there is way too much dead matter above the soil for it to take root.  I should have scarified the ground more than I did.  Even though we have raked leaves multiple times, it appears to not be enough.  And I certainly didn't do it after spreading the seeds.  The instructions on the bag would have been a good place to start is seems.  So I will wait a few weeks for the new sprouts to take better hold and go back with more seed along with the increased scarifying of the ground where the seed has failed to get started.  I thought I knew what I was doing based on previous successful efforts.  

The garden is doing pretty great.  Tomato plants have gone into high gear with the rain/sun mix.  Although it probably could be better but the weather has turned off cooler and cloudier of late.  Onions are doing OK but my potatoes have exploded.  They were sprouting within 3 days of planting.  Last year it was more than 2 weeks.  No idea why the change.  I just plant 'em and give a little fertilizer and water and get out of the way.  I hope this is an indication the actual potatoes will develop into larger ones this time.  I used the gold variety again since the Russets last fall were a huge bust.

My Mother has a follow up doctor appointment today.  She insisted on going alone this time.  She apparently thinks 'K' or my Sister-in-law being there hampers things.  Unfortunately she remembers nothing from the previous visits.  She has not followed his previous instructions since she doesn't remember them and argues when she is told about them.  Hopefully he can get her to understand why he wants her to do the things he prescribed.  But she seems to be going in with a combative approach even though she remembers nothing but what we have told her.  We have taken measures to hopefully get the transcript of her appointment so things don't go to far off the rails.  Yes, he has someone record the visit.  Smart man since he deals mostly with elderly.

'K' surprised me with a road-trip request.  I was certainly not prepared.  I can't blame her.  We have been pretty much homebodies for the last 15 years and the stress of dealing with my Mother lately has added to the desire to get out of town.  However the place/time she chose is not conducive to avoiding hot weather.  I have offered a compromise for October.  Inviting some family would add to the fun and giving them more time to plan make it more appealing.  She thought that was a great idea.  I gotta try to keep from sandbagging us, but I'm a planner and 'K' is more a spur of the moment type.  I look at all the things that could be an issue, she looks at very few-just go and let things deal with themselves, I wish I could do that.  How we ever get along is a wonder.

Happy Trails

On The Roof Again

Sunday with the family was good.  Mom was a no show.  When 'K' spoke to her Saturday she said she had no recollection of saying she would come.  She was too tired to come.  

Trying to catch up on yard work is the constant theme this time of year.  Most of it is centered on raking and bagging a bajillion oak leaves.  I usually let them lay and hit them with the mower.  However, they are so thick and there is little to no grass after the brutal Summer and the 3 days of ice earlier this year.  I just had to get down a little further so I can plant some grass seed on the bare patches.  'K' loves to rake and bag leaves, it relaxes her she says.  Well OK don't let me stop you.  Yes I help but she really does a lot of it.  The big pile of firewood I got from all the broken limbs from the ice storm is finally making it's way to the back yard next to the other pile.  I have easily filled one of those 4' wood racks and could fill another 2.  This wood will need to cure before it's useable for fires or BBQ.  I had to climb up on the roof and remove the oak leaves and tassels from the roof valleys.  They get so full they can back up rain water under the shingles.  I don't want that again.  The tassels block the gutter covers and become useless.  It's not an easy thing to do for a wore out 70 year old to climb up on that roof.

Not much else going on...yet.

Happy Trails

Sold the Car and Easter

I got Mom's car sold to Carmax finally.  So that is off my shoulders.  Have you ever sold a car to them?  I was a little disappointed in the final result.  I used their online estimator that uses the VIN to tell then what the car is for the most part.  There were a few of the bells and whistles they did not have so I added those that I knew of.  I wasn't sure about some others.  The reason for that is they are all electronic and the operating system was much harder for me to operate than it should have been.  I didn't drive the car to try and find out all of those things.  So I got a number from their website and they actually make an offer right then that is good for a week or two.  I decided against accepting the offer in order for them to add any of the bells or whistles I wasn't aware.  Naïve? maybe so.  As it turns out it would have made no difference.  Their in person estimator and the buyers have final say despite the online offer.  A scam?  Maybe not.  I am sure there are plenty of folks that do what they can to bump the price offered by fudging a bit on things.  I wasn't trying to do that at all.  I just didn't know much about the car.  There were a couple minor things they dinged us for anyway.  Like a couple small dings in the door and a wheel that needed repair and some door panels that needed paint.  I thought it looked almost prefect but then I didn't look as close with a trained eye to pick out every little flaw.  I accepted their offer anyway, it was only 1500 less than the original estimate.  The biggest thing is Mom raised no objection to the lower price.

I had to remove and install a faucet in the bathroom last week.  We have a couple of Pfister brand faucets.  With the very hard water we have I have to either replace or clean the aerators regularly.  I didn't.  When I finally got around to removing them, no can do.  It broke since they all seem to use plastic ones now.  It had cemented itself to the faucet.  Pfister had previously sent me the replacement aerators.  Since I could not remove the broken ones, they honored their lifetime warranty and sent me two new faucets.  Good on them.  However I still have to deal with the plastic 'recessed' aerators.  I'll have to be more diligent.

We are gearing up to have the family over Easter to eat and let the kids hunt eggs.  We always invite Mom and she always declines.  She accepted!  So we have been hard at work trying to get the yard more presentable since the kiddoes will be out running around in it.  Coming up with what to eat has been a challenge all week.  I think we have finally decided on King Ranch Chicken.  I wanted to cook a brisket but the non-beef eater was an issue.  She isn't from Texas is my explanation for that.

Happy Trails

Our 'Off Week' LOL

It was a fairly busy week this past week.  Just catching up with things that had been left undone since we were so involved with my Mother's garage sale.  I grilled a couple ribeyes for 'K' and I to celebrate.  Three steaks and we got 3 meals out of them.  I believe they were better than my favorite steak house we usually go to to celebrate.  Even though they were expensive I think we got our money's worth.

April 1 Mom's house was move in day for the renters.  No going back like she threatened once or twice.  Actually this past week has been pretty good for her.  It seems she is getting better adjusted and is wanting to get more involved.  She has not been following the doctors orders on her new meds though.  She read the insert and thinks she knows better than her doctor about what she needs.  He wanted to wean her off valium onto this new med before having her memory test.  Now that is delayed.  She has always been a somewhat difficult patient.  

Thanks to those that have offered prayers and encouraging comments on our dealings with my Mother.  It is much appreciated.  

I have the title to my Mother's car in hand and have made an appointment with Carmax for Monday. I will be glad to get that thing out of the driveway.  I will need to clean it up a bit first.  I don't think it has ever been vacuumed out so I will get that done and stop at the car wash on the way to Carmax.  

I was trying to cut the back yard and the lawnmower just quit.  No sputter, no cough just dead.  Yet it would crank.  I managed to find a neighbor on FB that does mobile repair.  Perfect since I have no way to transport a lawn tractor.  He showed up the same day I called him.  Couldn't quick fix it like he thought so hauled it home to work on it in his shop.  Turns out the carburetor needed to be replaced.  Now it runs better than it did when I first got it.  Got the yard cut just after he dropped it off.

This is getting long so I will save the rest for a possible midweek post.

Happy Trails

Garage/Estate Sale is History

We had the garage sale for my Mother's remaining things this past Saturday.  Things went very well.  Lots of customers and we were able to unload a lot of her things.  Not a lot was made monetarily unless you count the furniture that was sold beforehand.  Then it was very good.  Today 'K' and my sister-in-law and maybe my brother are back over there packing up the left overs to donate.  I will head over later if they are still at it when I finish with the pest control guy.  

I also was able to find a neighbor that will come to your house and either fix your lawnmower or haul it to his shop.  Mine died Friday and I was not able to get it started.  He thinks it's a bad carburetor.  

We are looking for a little down time this week since our time won't be consumed by finishing with Mom's things.  I will most likely spend it working in the yard some more.  The high winds we had last week knocked some more big limbs down that were broken during the past ice storm.  There are still a few big ones up high I can't get to.  I will just wait on those too.  I have to cut those downed limbs up to dispose of what can't become firewood.  There are a lot of leaves that need to be addressed from all that along with the usual Spring loss that Oaks have.  I hope to also pick up some tomato plants and get them in the ground, most likely today if I am not needed at Mom's.  

The stress of Mom's thoughts being all over the map is telling.  That and the frustration of not being able to make her understand wears us out.  I don't want some of the anger I have seen ruin the so many good years we had with her.  Trying to stay positive and remind others this is not the real person we knew and loved.  Just a shadow of what once was.  I'm sure I fail.

My Brother and I shared a lot of our thoughts about the future and we seem to be pretty much on the same page.  I don't foresee any issues I have seen with families squabbling after a loved one passes.  Those things can tear a family apart.  

Happy Trails

Finally a Car Title-but not in hand

I finally managed to get the title to my Mother's car transferred to my name.  Unfortunately I won't get a copy for 3-4 weeks.  I had hoped they would print me a new one and I would be good to go.  Then I could take it to be sold the next day.  So now it sits in my driveway gathering oak pollen.  It has sat so long the battery needed to be recharged.  I will try to at least start it and let it run a few times a week to keep it charged up.  After doing some checking and talking with a friend that works at a car dealership in finance, Carmax is the best place to take a car to sell outright.  Hopefully there will be no delay with the title and I can get it out of our way.  

Mom, has had some good days lately, but the memory issues and some other things continue to crop up.  Another visit to that new doctor to get results of blood tests this week and maybe some new meds to help her will happen.  He said he could at least prevent progression of some issues.  I also hope more time getting used to where she now lives and releaving some of the stress of moving and being in an unfamiliar place will help.  She was surprised to find out other residents still had their cars and went places.  It was her argument to want her car to go and do things.  She didn't do that much going and doing before she moved here.  It's just the idea of having that thought of independence.  We assured her she wouldn't be able to find her way around the area especially with all the new construction nearly everywhere and how different things look every few weeks, not with just the highways but the massive growth in the area.  That seemed to satisfy her for the moment.  She got lost once in her own area where she lived her entire life but she denies that ever happened.  

We are one week away from the 'garage sale' at her house.  All the leftover furniture items and electronics have been sold now.  Mostly to family and the family that plans to rent the house.  They also asked about any left over items.  We planned to donate to any organization that would agree to pick up.  They offered to take everything and they would donate to their church benevolence program.  Whatever makes it easier for us.  I think all we have to do is box it or move it all to the garage area.  

I'm sorry if I have repeated other posts.  There is so much going on and I have not taken the time to verify what I have written previously.  I'm doing good just to post anything at all.  My back has also gotten quite a bit better although I did stay home from church again.  Those pews most always aggravate something in my back neck. I have nearly reduced completely my need for Ibuprofen but still wear a brace for anything upright.  Mostly just soreness and stiffness remains.  Walking Costco took a toll so I was pretty tired and sore from that.  A little at a time and not doing something stupid to aggravate it again is the key.  

Happy Trails

Comedy of Errors

I'm such a goof.  My own errors have led to more trouble than it should have been to get my Mother's car transferred to my name and then sold.  Part of the issue is also my Mother not wanting to go places to get this done.  Having the title transferred to my name would alleviate that issue.  I struck out a second time at the DMV.  A transfer is handled by the County, not the State.  They have their own form that requires a notary public also.  SMH.  We already got two forms notarized this past Sunday.  Fortunately the notary came to her facility to do this.  She also had been a resident at the same one my Mother is at now.  Consequently she made a error on one of the forms and pretty much invalidated it.  I did not have a spare with me.  So I was left with the one valid form to transfer to my name.  The other would have transferred it to her name, (this is because Dad's name is also on the title and has since passed).  She never went to probate with his will so it never got done.  Both names on the title is causing issues that have made me determined to never do that with my own vehicles ever again.  Both now are that way.  The other issue is I signed a form when it should have been my Mother, but at least that one did not need to be notarized.  That form prevented me from even obtaining the title as is.  Not sure that would have helped at all but I thought it might be a good idea at the time.  

One other thing the county requires is a valid inspection 'not more than 90 days old.'  Seriously?  Well OK, hers expires this month anyway (but we hoped to sell it before then).  I get ready to go get it inspected and...dead battery.  Not really surprising, it doesn't get driven much.  It hasn't moved since we brought it out here.  Maybe 4 weeks.  I don't know, everything regarding all this has gummed up the timeframe in my mind.  It didn't get driven much at all when Mom was able.  Hence only 21,000 miles on a 2015 car.  It's now on the charger and I still hope to get the inspection done on it later today.   Then tomorrow maybe get the other form notarized and another trip to the county and see if they can get it done...of course if I have done everything right this time.  Double checking and I will have 'K' check it too.

Now back to working on our taxes.  Hope I get that right...

Happy Trails

Life is Not Fun Right Now

On top of everything else going on with us, I am down in my back.  I have a dislocated vertebrae, the L5, that acts up every so often.  When it does, it's very painful, I can barely walk at times.  They telll me the only way to fix that is surgery.  I am avoiding that as long as possible.  I don't know anybody that has had a successful back surgery that hasn't needed more later.  I have been hitting the Ibuprofen pretty hard and icing it down.  I get a little relief but not near enough to be able to function normally.  'K's back is also bothering her.  Most all of it is in relation to moving Mom and getting ready to sell her left over things.  Too much lifting and standing.  Although I have done very little.

I had to go over and be with Mom for a little while one night.  Just spend a little time and let her talk.  She was more rational than she has been.  Usually that's all it takes to help her out.  Others involved don't seem to grasp that.  Let's just say overreaction causes us all concern.  I try very hard to keep a cool head and listen before I react.  A negative reaction, even if it is only a facial expression, works against us.  Dementia is a curse.  Hopefully the new doctor can give her some help.  She will see him Monday.

When other family is involved there can be even more stress.  Differing opinions, not doing what they think you should be doing etc.  I try also not to react to those situations.  Selling Mom's car is one thing I apparently am not doing fast enough.  Her license tags are due this month.  They want it gone before then so we don't have to pay that fee.  So I get helpful advice even though they said they wouldn't.  I get it.  I don't want to pay that either.  My back has prevented me from following up on that.  Maybe this week I can get the title from the DMV.  I will get an appointment in order to cut down on the time I have to wait and aggravate my back more.

There is much more going on behind the scenes I could rant about but would serve no purpose.  Mom does have good days too but we let the bad ones overwhelm us.  That needs to be worked on.

Life is not fun fight now, but it could always be much worse.  Our Faith sustains us.

Happy Trails