Dear Family and Friends,
Having the whole day to relax and work on appraisals I intended to do the lawn and trim the tree in the back. Recently while sitting and watching the sun set it became obvious that there were just too many branches obscuring the view of the setting sun over the island and lake. So this afternoon after tired of balancing the checkbook and writing appraisals I waited until the temperature dropped to 70 and headed out with saw, gloves, plastic sack, extension cord, clippers. I studied the tree and decided that two branches had to go so reaching up with the sawzall I cut them off. The result was an immediate opening up of the lake view. Then I set to work trimming the little branches off each limb and cramming them into trash sacks. Several phone calls gave me welcome breaks and suddenly it was dark with the sun having set while I enjoyed a call. As I was nearing the end of the call I noticed that my left elbow was wet, I was curious how that could be so I reached with my other hand and when I turned the light on my hand was covered in blood. A branch had poked a pretty good hole in my arm near the elbow and blood was streaming out. Well that ended the phone call and I set to work washing it off and then stanching the flow of blood. In a few minutes it had stopped and I was able to retrieve the tools and roll the trash can to the street for tomorrow's pickup. I've been noticing that I bleed very easily now and my skin appears to be thinner and easily damaged. This growing older should be avoided if possible, things change even though you don't feel a day older, the body changes.
How like life to be surprised by an unexpected injury. I was wearing gloves, I was being careful and at no time did I feel a branch attack me but the bleeding was proof that in fact a branch had fought back. Many times when we are sure we have every possibility covered something totally unexpected hits us in shocking ways. I remember the experience of learning to drive way back then and learning to keep looking when you are backing up in a parking lot, just checking once is not enough as other people are on the move too.
As I look forward to this week some special people are going to make it great. On Wednesday Jerry and Donna are planning to drive down to pick up Suzie and her furniture and then drive back on Thursday. That means I get to see them all on Wednesday night. What fun it will be to have every room used in the house, to host guests! Sometime this week I will have lunch with one of my clients who I have worked with for months but never met, just emails and faxes. She says we should meet and it sounds great to me, another client has also ask if we could do lunch and I know I will enjoy seeing her again after nearly a year since that last time we met just briefly. This is such an impersonal world, faxes, emails, phone calls with little time to connect.
Are there times when you feel like you live in a world now that has gone over the edge, become crazy. Advertising is all aimed at kids and young people, popular music has little beauty in it anymore, more like noise to a beat. All around everyone is texting, phones are glued to the ears or ipod earphones prevent any conversation or even a meaningful hello to fellow walkers in the morning. The government is spending huge amounts of money when they in fact are out of money, acting as if there is no tomorrow. We have to buy these stupid light bulbs that cost a fortune, last even shorter lengths of time and are horrible to dispose of, yet that is progress, everyone wants things to be green but one gets the sinking feeling that we are spending a fortune on a fad with little proof behind it, as regular people lose their jobs, lose their houses the number of federal employees is skyrocketing, why?
In my own world I am forbidden to communicate with clients I have worked very hard for 22 years to care for, now orders have to come from third party clients who don't care at all just want a cut for existing. Appraisers are quitting in droves as the job and meaning has been forced out by FNMA, the very people who did a lot of the bad things that caused the current crisis, now they dictate future behavior.
I sometimes am drawn to the big band sounds, of meaningful vocals, of decent jazz. I appreciate good service at ACE or at Olive Garden and I hate the phrases like "no problem" or "you guys" when some in the group are ladies.
Its easy to be critical of the new generation, its been true as long as time existed. Yet there are some basics that seem to be slipping away that are based on eternal principles that cannot be changed. How refreshing then to find young parents trying to instill values and meaningful self control in the little ones.
As I worked this afternoon by the lake and felt the breezes move the warm air, watched as geese passed by with their young, as fish jumped for flys, as my animals stayed near enjoying my presence outside on their turf, it was a refreshing experience. In my aloneness I search for meaning and hope and treasure little moments that remind one of the goodness of life, that the race against financial ruin is worth fighting, that there is a tomorrow when perhaps I'll not be alone forever.
And so it goes, watch those trees, and watch the waves and listen to the ducks quack and the geese honk and the little birds tweet. This business of living, always challenging, sometimes rewarding and on occasion worth it all.
love
tim
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Kallie's big day!
What fun Kallie had today at her party. Her mom and day worked real hard to have everything perfect for friends and family. Kallie especially liked the new pool which she spent as much time in as she could but then there was all that nice work of opening wonderful presents with toys, clothes, games, books, oh wow, what a day. She was so busy that she even had to take a short nap in the middle of the afternoon.We missed Uncle Jason and Aunt Jo but they were in the middle of a graduation weekend and Jason is a senior class sponsor so there was no way they could break away for 4 hours of travel plus party time. We'll see them soon.
What a fun party and in the afternoon as the kids played in Steve's Disneyland backyard with spa bubbling, slip and slide in full swing, cold drinks in a tub and games galore it was a magic sight.
Kallie has added so much fun to the family and her first year has zipped by it seems. She is now walking across rooms at times, loved to be in the action, feeds herself, has no obvious food allergies so far and loves life, admires her big sister and loves her parents and even has a place in her heart for her pappa. It always feels good when she reaches for me to hold her. What total bliss.
So good night to all and happy birthday little angel!
love
tim
Friday, May 29, 2009
The seasons of life, constant change
Dear Family and Friends,
so here we are, at the end of yet another week, this time a short one with Monday being a holiday. I have no complaints. I've had some work to do which has kept me busy, the weather has not been too brutal and is wonderfully cool at night.
As I cast a eye about I find a landscape littered with people in crisis of one kind or another. For some long time relationships have been lost, for others work is in doubt, for some the stress of keeping going in a financial world of higher taxes, high fuel costs, higher grocery bills is overwhelming. Some face health problems with outcomes unknown, some are wondering if things will ever get closer to normal again.
Yet in the midst of the unease it is also a time of graduations, of young people brimming with hope and accomplishments, filled with dreams and unaware of the mine fields ahead for them. Good thing, let them have their day, its a good thing for all.
This afternoon I had a call from a long time friend, Liesl, whose Father and Mother were the Duerksons, had a Frank Lloyd Wright house in West Covina Hills. They were so good to our family, we often visited there and went to Disneyland or the Hollywood Bowl for concerts or the LA zoo and often to the Spaghetti Factory nearby. Liesl had called to just let me know that at a recent Sandy Patty concert many warm memories of Nan and our family came back to her and she wanted to say how sorry she was that Nan had died and to express her love for all of us. It was a touching call and meant so much to me.
Then this evening Barbara Lammerding wrote an email in which she mentions that she is having surgery soon to remove a tumor which is pressing on her spine. I know she will appreciate our prayers as does Suzie and Irene.
Tomorrow afternoon Kallie gets to celebrate being alive and with us for 1 full year. What a thrilling experience to have her in all of our lives. She is a lively little girl with a great personality and adores her sister Keanna. It is a wonderful time to look forward to and Steve and Nikki have everything in readiness for a wonderful afternoon of celebration.
So for now as life keeps being boring in its sameness and surprising in its changes I am along for the ride. While life is not what it used to be it still is better than it could be and even has moments that are downright wonderful, not many but some.
love, have a great blessed weekend!
Tim
so here we are, at the end of yet another week, this time a short one with Monday being a holiday. I have no complaints. I've had some work to do which has kept me busy, the weather has not been too brutal and is wonderfully cool at night.
As I cast a eye about I find a landscape littered with people in crisis of one kind or another. For some long time relationships have been lost, for others work is in doubt, for some the stress of keeping going in a financial world of higher taxes, high fuel costs, higher grocery bills is overwhelming. Some face health problems with outcomes unknown, some are wondering if things will ever get closer to normal again.
Yet in the midst of the unease it is also a time of graduations, of young people brimming with hope and accomplishments, filled with dreams and unaware of the mine fields ahead for them. Good thing, let them have their day, its a good thing for all.
This afternoon I had a call from a long time friend, Liesl, whose Father and Mother were the Duerksons, had a Frank Lloyd Wright house in West Covina Hills. They were so good to our family, we often visited there and went to Disneyland or the Hollywood Bowl for concerts or the LA zoo and often to the Spaghetti Factory nearby. Liesl had called to just let me know that at a recent Sandy Patty concert many warm memories of Nan and our family came back to her and she wanted to say how sorry she was that Nan had died and to express her love for all of us. It was a touching call and meant so much to me.
Then this evening Barbara Lammerding wrote an email in which she mentions that she is having surgery soon to remove a tumor which is pressing on her spine. I know she will appreciate our prayers as does Suzie and Irene.
Tomorrow afternoon Kallie gets to celebrate being alive and with us for 1 full year. What a thrilling experience to have her in all of our lives. She is a lively little girl with a great personality and adores her sister Keanna. It is a wonderful time to look forward to and Steve and Nikki have everything in readiness for a wonderful afternoon of celebration.
So for now as life keeps being boring in its sameness and surprising in its changes I am along for the ride. While life is not what it used to be it still is better than it could be and even has moments that are downright wonderful, not many but some.
love, have a great blessed weekend!
Tim
Still working
Dear Family and Friends,I'm writing late tonight. This evening Keanna was in a school concert and it is always so much fun to see her in action. She has been singing the song for weeks and knows it very well. Kallie was full of action too and seemed to like having so many people around.
Earlier in the day I wrote an appraisal and made appointments. I also discovered that my fax line has been turned off. When I signed up for this phone service I asked that it be paid directly from my account. Somehow that did not take place and even though they stated that they have send turn off notices I've seen none. So orders that were expected could not get in. I was livid and ended up not seeing too well for awhile, I think I drove my blood pressure up.
Mid day I finally got away to see properties and inspected the strangest little house in Oakland. It has a very unusual shape and a tiny second floor with 45 degree angles on two of the corners. The bank wants to know what it is currently worth so they can set a price and market it. It has brand new carpet installed today, remodeled bathroom, newer kitchen and a little single car garage. After that inspection for Chevy Chase I next drove to San Lorenzo where I met some very nice people who plan to have a manufactured home constructed on the rear half of their large lot. The appraisal will be a terrific challenge to be sure. I kept an eye on the clock as I wanted enough time to fight traffic and get back to the school to save seats per Nikki's request. I made it with 30 minutes to spare and it all worked out well.
I'm keeping busy to a point so far this week but do not feel well. I'm facing a cross roads regarding the volume of what I eat. Breakfast and lunch are usually planned and prepared using the head but from then on its sort of keep stuffing it in and I feel it the next morning.
Well it is past my bed time so I'll say a quick goodnight or good morning.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Good day
Dear Family and Friends,
This has been a pretty normal day with only a few bill collectors on the phone, some orders in and some work out the door, by shutting the doors early this morning the house stayed cool in spite of the heat until about 6 tonight when the big AC came on for a bit. Now the outside air is starting to cool off.
For lunch today I decided on healthy. I took pieces of Romain and tore them up, then cut olives in half, warmed mushrooms in the microwave, cut up a fresh tomato and had some light dressing. It turned out to be very tasty. Felt good to eat something decent.
Late this afternoon Lois treated me to a subway and then I drove to a place south of Tracy to do a construction inspection for the bank. It is coming along nicely and has a great location out in the country. It is so different to see a house like this being built compared to how they build homes in a tract. Here quality is evident throughout, no signs of someone being in a rush, just trying to do it right.
Now I'm home and getting ready to head to bed. How I love to sleep and with a few exceptions over the past few years I've been able to rest pretty well. Sometimes when there are lots of concerns on my mind I will wake up and try to solve them. I often would wake during the night when we were searching for medical answers, then I would come down early and write emails to Boston to the medical team. They always responded with answers which was so nice and helpful.
I do wish I could get the coughing solved. Its been bad this evening and it does concern me when my head spins after a bout of coughing. I'm really reluctant to head back to doctors again since none have found answers so far. They have tried their best but still I cough.
Good night to all,
sending love
tim
This has been a pretty normal day with only a few bill collectors on the phone, some orders in and some work out the door, by shutting the doors early this morning the house stayed cool in spite of the heat until about 6 tonight when the big AC came on for a bit. Now the outside air is starting to cool off.
For lunch today I decided on healthy. I took pieces of Romain and tore them up, then cut olives in half, warmed mushrooms in the microwave, cut up a fresh tomato and had some light dressing. It turned out to be very tasty. Felt good to eat something decent.
Late this afternoon Lois treated me to a subway and then I drove to a place south of Tracy to do a construction inspection for the bank. It is coming along nicely and has a great location out in the country. It is so different to see a house like this being built compared to how they build homes in a tract. Here quality is evident throughout, no signs of someone being in a rush, just trying to do it right.
Now I'm home and getting ready to head to bed. How I love to sleep and with a few exceptions over the past few years I've been able to rest pretty well. Sometimes when there are lots of concerns on my mind I will wake up and try to solve them. I often would wake during the night when we were searching for medical answers, then I would come down early and write emails to Boston to the medical team. They always responded with answers which was so nice and helpful.
I do wish I could get the coughing solved. Its been bad this evening and it does concern me when my head spins after a bout of coughing. I'm really reluctant to head back to doctors again since none have found answers so far. They have tried their best but still I cough.
Good night to all,
sending love
tim
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Another day, another dollar
Dear Friends and Family,
The dryer is buzzing telling me that the sheets are dry. For the first time that I can remember the dryer actually dries the whole load the first time. It seems so special to do laundry now and have it work.
This has been a fun day, Ken and I walked this morning and it seemed like he was on fire, we walked fast all the way around. Then I had an oatmeal breakfast with strawberries and soy milk, took my pills and waded into the desk work. In spite of my best intentions I did not get a lot done for the first part of the day. Suddenly it was 2 pm and time to pick up Keanna. At that same moment Steve arrived with his box trailer to store it beside the house. We already had the boat and his pop up camper trailer but he managed to move things about and in amazing short time had all three trailers parked behind the fence and out of sight. Now he has more room for guests to park for the Kallie 1 year bash this weekend. Steve is really amazing. He does not know how to just stand still and contemplate a job. He wades in and before I would be through thinking about it he has it done. I am in awe.
Keanna and I went to McDonalds for our usual Tuesday lunch and had fun discussing nearly everything. Then it was back home where she made drawings, they keep getting better and better and before much time her mom was here to pick her up.
This evening Nikki took Kallie and Keanna to swimming lessons. Kallie loved the water and Niki was pleased to have both girls learning.
Just now after completing a challenging appraisal for the sale of a Loft up in Sacramento I drifted over to Ray and Lois's house for pie and to have Lois download IM, instant messenger, for the little laptop I am typing on right now. We purchased it for Nan when she could not handle the heavy laptop. This little one is light and lasts about 5 hours on the battery which is nice. So now I have IM on it. I'm going to start taking it with me to the field more so I can use my time better between appointments. With IM I can be in touch with Loree at the office and Terry who is my contact for lots of Reverse Mortgage appraisals. And now I can talk to Lois and Ray also who have IM on their computer.
Our weather has suddenly turned warm here and so the ACs have been cranking today. How I wish I could install a new one for the house, a new ones with the new higher rating instead of my old energy hog. However we are looking at thousands in a time when hundreds are impossible so for now its use little room ACs which are light on the energy use and cool where you are at the time.
Orders continue to trickle in and so far they are enough to keep me pretty busy. I could do with more work of course but at least orders are still coming in which is a huge blessing and a couple more checks came in today as well so I can make this weeks payroll soon and the car payment and the house payment for the second and on it goes.
I tried to eat a bit more healthy today and for lunch I had lentils, peas in their pods and some brown rice, cottage cheese and a fresh tomato chopped up. No bad.
Please keep Barbie, Suzie, Irene in your prayers. yes God is fully aware of what they need, much better than any human could know yet when we pray it is good for us and I believe it allows God to be involved in a manner that He might not be able to were we not to ask. What do you think?
Sending love to all,
Tim
The dryer is buzzing telling me that the sheets are dry. For the first time that I can remember the dryer actually dries the whole load the first time. It seems so special to do laundry now and have it work.
This has been a fun day, Ken and I walked this morning and it seemed like he was on fire, we walked fast all the way around. Then I had an oatmeal breakfast with strawberries and soy milk, took my pills and waded into the desk work. In spite of my best intentions I did not get a lot done for the first part of the day. Suddenly it was 2 pm and time to pick up Keanna. At that same moment Steve arrived with his box trailer to store it beside the house. We already had the boat and his pop up camper trailer but he managed to move things about and in amazing short time had all three trailers parked behind the fence and out of sight. Now he has more room for guests to park for the Kallie 1 year bash this weekend. Steve is really amazing. He does not know how to just stand still and contemplate a job. He wades in and before I would be through thinking about it he has it done. I am in awe.
Keanna and I went to McDonalds for our usual Tuesday lunch and had fun discussing nearly everything. Then it was back home where she made drawings, they keep getting better and better and before much time her mom was here to pick her up.
This evening Nikki took Kallie and Keanna to swimming lessons. Kallie loved the water and Niki was pleased to have both girls learning.
Just now after completing a challenging appraisal for the sale of a Loft up in Sacramento I drifted over to Ray and Lois's house for pie and to have Lois download IM, instant messenger, for the little laptop I am typing on right now. We purchased it for Nan when she could not handle the heavy laptop. This little one is light and lasts about 5 hours on the battery which is nice. So now I have IM on it. I'm going to start taking it with me to the field more so I can use my time better between appointments. With IM I can be in touch with Loree at the office and Terry who is my contact for lots of Reverse Mortgage appraisals. And now I can talk to Lois and Ray also who have IM on their computer.
Our weather has suddenly turned warm here and so the ACs have been cranking today. How I wish I could install a new one for the house, a new ones with the new higher rating instead of my old energy hog. However we are looking at thousands in a time when hundreds are impossible so for now its use little room ACs which are light on the energy use and cool where you are at the time.
Orders continue to trickle in and so far they are enough to keep me pretty busy. I could do with more work of course but at least orders are still coming in which is a huge blessing and a couple more checks came in today as well so I can make this weeks payroll soon and the car payment and the house payment for the second and on it goes.
I tried to eat a bit more healthy today and for lunch I had lentils, peas in their pods and some brown rice, cottage cheese and a fresh tomato chopped up. No bad.
Please keep Barbie, Suzie, Irene in your prayers. yes God is fully aware of what they need, much better than any human could know yet when we pray it is good for us and I believe it allows God to be involved in a manner that He might not be able to were we not to ask. What do you think?
Sending love to all,
Tim
Monday, May 25, 2009
I celebrated the holiday by working
Dear Family and Friends,
I sincerely hope you were able to pause today and reflect on just how fortunate we are to live where we live, to be surrounded by people we love and enjoy the fruits of so many people who have gone before us believing in the simple truth, freedom is worth fighting for. Think of the people who are stuck in North Korea or Iran or in many of the African countries where there is very little freedom and life is very tough to live. Here we are with our current economic mess yet we have so many many things, circumstances to be totally jazzed about. As I drove into my driveway tonight after a very long day of driving and inspecting I just said a quiet thank you to God for yet another safe day with work to do and energy to carry it out.
This morning Ken and I walked at 7:30 and then I had breakfast and did some office work. Suddenly it was time to leave and I needed to shower.
My first stop was in one of the worst hit places in the US, Stockton. I saw a very nicely maintained home with over 2,100 sf that is in contract for $233K. After measuring, inspecting, photographing I found the comps and then discovered I was feeling fairly faint and very hungry. The GPS directed me to a Marie Calenders in Elk Grove. After a lunch of soup and a huge salad, corn bread and ice tea I felt like myself again. While I was there I decided to divert from my plans a bit and take a pie to Barb and Gerry who live in a 55 and over Del Webb development near Roseville. But before I could go there I had to do a loft property in downtown Sacramento. It was the purchase of a nice three story property right in the heart of Sacramento. Then it was out to see Barb and Gerry in their beautiful home. When I left later I pointed the bug toward Fairfield to finish the appraisal that I could not complete the other day due to a key being removed from the lockbox. This time it was there as promised.
From Fairfield it was a hour home. As I neared home I decided I had better do the shopping list that has been prepared for a week. So $86 later and a few sacks I'm caught up.
Now I'm home and ready to call it a day. You ask why work on a holiday? Well first off I had work to do, secondly the timer is ticking on these orders, they all have to be done either tomorrow or by Thursday and I had no better offers or plans for the day. For excitement I picked up dog droppings on the back deck!
It feels good to be home tonight, very good.
Sending love to all,
Tim
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Life with all its challenges...
Dear Family and Friends,
Wow what will life throw at us next? That is always the question on our minds. Beware of when things are seeming to go well, look out.
Barbie wrote an email this evening and shared that she is facing some health challenges of a serious nature. Please pray for her and Gerry.
I've been very committed to the computer today and have finished two rather challenging reports. Tomorrow I'll got to Sacramento to see a new Loft which is in contract and then Fairfield to see the inside of a house where they had removed the key.
I hope your holiday is going well for you and that you are having fun inspite of having to scale back on travel, food, shopping. Smiles are free, so are pats on the back and walks to the park.
So I'm keeping it short and trying to walk straight to bed now, not pass the TV or the frig, just straight to bed for a change.
Sending my best love to all,
tim
Wow what will life throw at us next? That is always the question on our minds. Beware of when things are seeming to go well, look out.
Barbie wrote an email this evening and shared that she is facing some health challenges of a serious nature. Please pray for her and Gerry.
I've been very committed to the computer today and have finished two rather challenging reports. Tomorrow I'll got to Sacramento to see a new Loft which is in contract and then Fairfield to see the inside of a house where they had removed the key.
I hope your holiday is going well for you and that you are having fun inspite of having to scale back on travel, food, shopping. Smiles are free, so are pats on the back and walks to the park.
So I'm keeping it short and trying to walk straight to bed now, not pass the TV or the frig, just straight to bed for a change.
Sending my best love to all,
tim
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Miss Keanna goes to Sabbath School
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Fun is watching Keanna as she warms up to her Sabbath School class with Sylvia as the teacher and then begins to enjoy all the activities and stories. Fun is seeing her read better and better every day, write letters and words, seeing her face burst into a smile when I put Tiny Tim on my name tag this morning and she read it and then realized how funny it was for her overweight pappa to call himself Tiny Tim.
After we left childrens church which was very well planned and executed I asked Keanna where she wanted lunch. She decided against chicken nuggets, I ask why and she mentioned that she had them twice yesterday and she thought 8 nuggets were enough for awhile so she selected Olive Garden. We went and ordered from a very nice lady and then Nikki drove in with Kallie and they enjoyed lunch as well. Afterwards Keanna came home with me to play a new game in her VSmile game. We discovered to our horror that Starr had graced the little game from every side expressing her upset mood. It was a mess and after cleaning and cleaning it still would not work. That was very frustrating and while one might feel like administering heavy duty punishment I know from experience that Starr would have no idea of why she was being punished since time had passed since her indescrition. Still it just really makes one angry. The game has set on the floor for months without any problem and now suddenly it become a fire hydrant!
After a bit I took Keanna home so she could play and enjoy her afternoon. Steve has created a new addition to an already perfectly landscaped rear yard, this time its a pond with a hand carved tikki pouring a stream of water from its mouth. The pond is complete with a little wooden bridge. He has so much color, palm trees, shrubs, childrens play area complete with sand box, hot tub, shaded patio. Wow its impressive.
I came home fully intending to get some rest and I put on the 3ABN dish and enjoyed a musical program. Earlier Keanna had enjoyed the children's musical program and comments on how nicely the children sang. She has a proven method of knowing how old kids are. If they have adult teeth then they are older than 6 and if they have missing teeth then they are 5 or 6. Its so interesting observing how well kids read life.
This evening my trip to Safeway got sidetracked as I accidentally happened on a Bourne movie, the latest in the series of three. They are always so exciting, full of action and amazing acting. I also managed to figure out how my HD DVR works. Up to this time I see it recording from time to time but I had no idea what it was recording or how to see what was recorded and waiting. By pushing buttons and trial and error I finally found how it works. Nice! Its only been about three months! Quick learner here.
Today was a really good day for checks. Keanna pulled out three envelops and all three were from lenders. Some of Loree's good work is paying off, one was from a company for an appraisal done in January and they just forgot to pay. Loree's statements prompted them to action. Also I was paid for three appraisals from the company that owes me so much money, that makes about 5 or 6 for the week. Tomorrow I'll make the house payment and I'm saying a huge thank you to the Lord for His blessings.
I've been reading in a book Jason gave me nearly a year ago. Everything makes perfect sense and I intend to purchase the foods I need for this formula to not only dump weight but also help push back my diabetes. I know it involves eating a lot of raw veges and fruits, it is based on salads as the basis for eating. Of everything I have read this seems to pull it all together better than any other thing I've been exposed to. It would be wonderful to be able to pull on size 36 pants again. I have a closet full of them, just waiting for me to move forward with health. I'm sensing it is time to take steps for health. How is it with you? Have you been putting off taking the steps needed for better health?
I plan to share every step with you the reader, steps I take, foods I enjoy, foods I miss, weight report. Maybe we can lose together. Maybe we can live longer and better with more energy.
I've sure been glad to hear back from you regarding some of the the things I've been saying lately. Feedback is good, changing an adult lifestyle is hard, very hard.
So good night my friends and family,
love to all
tim
Friday, May 22, 2009
Challenges of life
Dear Family and Friends,
How blessed a person is if he has a caring family and a host of quality friends. I have both, far more than I deserve.
After a week of steady work, safe trips and some checks in the mail it is nice to have this divinely inspired break, the Sabbath. Now I know I certainly do not keep it in the same manner as when I was growing up. I remember the mad rush to have out baths over by Sunday on Friday night or else. At that point we had not yet learned about the Lords love as much as God's rules or approaching our Lord as a caring friend instead of a pretty serious boss. Yet there were many good things about the way we were raised. Our family was very poor, my father and mother worked hard day and night with little time for relaxing. We lived on an 80 acre farm in Washington near Castle Rock and even closer to Toutle along the north fork of the Toutle River, the same river that did so much damage after the mountain blew. Our farm would have been very deep in ash as it was located a few miles from the mountain. Once in a while the family would pack a lunch and after church we would drive to Spirit Lake, a deep deep tree lined lake that was so beautiful and mysterious. We would hike up the mountain and our dad would tell of his times up the mountain to its top with just a day pack and his faithful dog Dixie. He had climbed it by himself and described the few pieces left of a lookout station that someone had tried to build near the top to spot forest fires.
When the mountain blew I felt like someone had ripped out a piece of my childhood as some of my happiest memories were of the lake and the mountain. It was a close to a vacation as we ever came as I was growing up. We never went out to eat, we never stayed in a motel or hotel, we never camped out other than when my brother would take me with him on a fishing trip. Life was serious and hard and it was the same for most everyone in the little community. I wore jeans with patches on the knees and don't remember ever having a new pair as I grew up.
When my father decided to expand his social circle beyond his family he moved us from the farm to a rental in the city, sold the farm for $14,000 and took on a job of selling Lincolns, Edsels and Mercurys. Later he left and my mom and I struggled to survive, she cleaned houses and went with me to my piano teacher and while I had my lesson she did ironing in another room. My brother often rescued us with groceries and visits and he was a life savior many times. Yet during those years I purchased a new bicycle on time and made my $5.00 a month payments to the store. I ran a Spudnut route selling doughnuts made with potatoes nearly every day and on a good day I cleared a dollar. I also sold pens, pencils, had a paper route in the early hours of the morning and managed to even go on a berry bus to pick strawberries. I rarely lasted more than few days as I just ended up eating too many berries and not picking fast enough to please the management.
Life was rarely easy but it seemed OK. Early on I discovered that I could sing and from 5 years old on I was put up front a lot singing for meetings, camp meetings, church and even secular events. I found my place in the world with my voice, first a boy soprano and eventually a tenor.
I'm in a different place now. I've pretty much decided that I'm tired of always being alone but quite unsure of what to do about it and I guess unwilling to expend much energy in the process. The single biggest obstacle I face in life at the moment is the extra 80 lbs I carry. At this point I've not decided on a day by day basis to find a new way of life and stick to it so the weight lingers and taunts me.
I'm always pleased when the Sabbath hours begin, I put away my work and concentrate on rest. This evening Lois, who is alone until tomorrow evening when Ray comes back, and I had dinner at the Boardwalk. We sat outside and enjoyed watching the harbor and other people who got louder and louder as they sipped their white wines and beers. Our food was great. I had a side salad and a pasta with vegetables in a wonderful sauce that was so good it was sinful. To drink I enjoyed green tea. It was a nice way to end the week.
Tomorrow morning I plan to walk with Ken and then pickup Keanna for Sabbath School. This afternoon she had a rare experience. Nikki took her to Dublin to meet up with Annie, her long time friend who used to live on the same street as she does. Then to celebrate Annie's birthday all the little girls climbed into a limo where they were transported to a "Build a bear" store in Walnut Creek. How times have changed! Imagine, a limo for 6 year olds. I think they all had a great time.
I want to share some sobering news that Irene has received. She had a CT scan this week and the results were mixed. She is on a different drug right now that is being given to her "off label" meaning it is not approved or recognized to be effective with GIST. However for some people it seemed to be helping. This weeks scans showed that the tumor (s) in Irene's liver are growing while the other ones are unchanged. Meanwhile the side effects of the drug are really making life tough for Irene with fatigue and depression. This precious child of God needs our prayers and good thoughts.
Good night to all,
love
tim
How blessed a person is if he has a caring family and a host of quality friends. I have both, far more than I deserve.
After a week of steady work, safe trips and some checks in the mail it is nice to have this divinely inspired break, the Sabbath. Now I know I certainly do not keep it in the same manner as when I was growing up. I remember the mad rush to have out baths over by Sunday on Friday night or else. At that point we had not yet learned about the Lords love as much as God's rules or approaching our Lord as a caring friend instead of a pretty serious boss. Yet there were many good things about the way we were raised. Our family was very poor, my father and mother worked hard day and night with little time for relaxing. We lived on an 80 acre farm in Washington near Castle Rock and even closer to Toutle along the north fork of the Toutle River, the same river that did so much damage after the mountain blew. Our farm would have been very deep in ash as it was located a few miles from the mountain. Once in a while the family would pack a lunch and after church we would drive to Spirit Lake, a deep deep tree lined lake that was so beautiful and mysterious. We would hike up the mountain and our dad would tell of his times up the mountain to its top with just a day pack and his faithful dog Dixie. He had climbed it by himself and described the few pieces left of a lookout station that someone had tried to build near the top to spot forest fires.
When the mountain blew I felt like someone had ripped out a piece of my childhood as some of my happiest memories were of the lake and the mountain. It was a close to a vacation as we ever came as I was growing up. We never went out to eat, we never stayed in a motel or hotel, we never camped out other than when my brother would take me with him on a fishing trip. Life was serious and hard and it was the same for most everyone in the little community. I wore jeans with patches on the knees and don't remember ever having a new pair as I grew up.
When my father decided to expand his social circle beyond his family he moved us from the farm to a rental in the city, sold the farm for $14,000 and took on a job of selling Lincolns, Edsels and Mercurys. Later he left and my mom and I struggled to survive, she cleaned houses and went with me to my piano teacher and while I had my lesson she did ironing in another room. My brother often rescued us with groceries and visits and he was a life savior many times. Yet during those years I purchased a new bicycle on time and made my $5.00 a month payments to the store. I ran a Spudnut route selling doughnuts made with potatoes nearly every day and on a good day I cleared a dollar. I also sold pens, pencils, had a paper route in the early hours of the morning and managed to even go on a berry bus to pick strawberries. I rarely lasted more than few days as I just ended up eating too many berries and not picking fast enough to please the management.
Life was rarely easy but it seemed OK. Early on I discovered that I could sing and from 5 years old on I was put up front a lot singing for meetings, camp meetings, church and even secular events. I found my place in the world with my voice, first a boy soprano and eventually a tenor.
I'm in a different place now. I've pretty much decided that I'm tired of always being alone but quite unsure of what to do about it and I guess unwilling to expend much energy in the process. The single biggest obstacle I face in life at the moment is the extra 80 lbs I carry. At this point I've not decided on a day by day basis to find a new way of life and stick to it so the weight lingers and taunts me.
I'm always pleased when the Sabbath hours begin, I put away my work and concentrate on rest. This evening Lois, who is alone until tomorrow evening when Ray comes back, and I had dinner at the Boardwalk. We sat outside and enjoyed watching the harbor and other people who got louder and louder as they sipped their white wines and beers. Our food was great. I had a side salad and a pasta with vegetables in a wonderful sauce that was so good it was sinful. To drink I enjoyed green tea. It was a nice way to end the week.
Tomorrow morning I plan to walk with Ken and then pickup Keanna for Sabbath School. This afternoon she had a rare experience. Nikki took her to Dublin to meet up with Annie, her long time friend who used to live on the same street as she does. Then to celebrate Annie's birthday all the little girls climbed into a limo where they were transported to a "Build a bear" store in Walnut Creek. How times have changed! Imagine, a limo for 6 year olds. I think they all had a great time.
I want to share some sobering news that Irene has received. She had a CT scan this week and the results were mixed. She is on a different drug right now that is being given to her "off label" meaning it is not approved or recognized to be effective with GIST. However for some people it seemed to be helping. This weeks scans showed that the tumor (s) in Irene's liver are growing while the other ones are unchanged. Meanwhile the side effects of the drug are really making life tough for Irene with fatigue and depression. This precious child of God needs our prayers and good thoughts.
Good night to all,
love
tim
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Bullish on life
Wow, here we are coming to the end of yet another week. What a rush! With Loree here in the office files are finding homes, the books are getting cleared up, checks are being credited to their proper places. Orders continue to come in but if I don't get caught up with the back log they won't keep coming in.
Today I skipped walking with Ken and worked on the 4 plex in Ceres. Even though I worked on it solid from 5:30 to 9 I am far from completing it. At that point I had to take a quick shower and drive to Martinez to see a place, then on to Vallejo and finally to Fairfield. I was about 15 minutes from the house this morning when I reached for my phone only to discover I had left it in the bathroom at home. Without time to go back home I decided to face the day without it. What a lesson in dependence on a mechanical device. All day I've felt at risk without the ability to connect with my friends, family and the office / clients. When I tried to use the pay phone in Martinez I found it required 80 cents to place a call to the office. Loree was not in yet so that was a wasted call. Finally at the second inspection the kind lady allowed me to use her computer to send a yahoo message to Loree explaining what had happened. But it was at the last visit of the day that I really needed my phone.
When I knelt down to use the code and open the lockbox I found it empty, someone had removed the key so I had no access to the home and no phone to call the agent. I ended up measuring the house from the outside, peeking through the windows and then shooting comps in the area. I'll have to return once someone finds a key for me.
It is troubling how dependent I've become on having a cell phone. The inability to connect with Nikki or Jason, with clients, with Loree and the office, wow it was a real eye opener.
This evening I begged Lois to help me put the motorhome away and then we met with Keanna, Nikki and Kallie at LaVilla located in downtown Bethel Island. Kallie was good for awhile but eventually decided she had enough sitting. by then I was finished with my burrito dinner so she and I went for a walk about and saw spiders, feral kitties, a fire truck and felt the delta breezes blow over us. There is little that rivals hold little Kallie as she squirms and waves her arms and legs in glee over nothing. What a delightful experience and she is mine, I am the Pappa and I get to help with these three little tigers. Its a powerful blessing and sure wipes the frustrations of work aside with a joyful dose of reality.
For those of you who are not yet grandparents you just think I am babbling on, wait until it happens to you, ask Loren, or Wes about how sweet it is when it happens.
Good night, I send my love to each and every one of you.
In the past few days a gentle awakening has been taking place deep inside, tired of being defeated and trodden down I think I'll just go ahead and choose life, success, accomplishments, relationships, health. I'm tired of being the object of concern and even pity at times. Yea, a lot of bad stuff has happened, most of which I did everything I could to avoid and it happened anyway. I lost her after a 12 year battle that involved just about everything medical, financial, physical, emotional possible. So what now? What would Nan do? Well one thing is certain, she would not wallow in self pity and give up, no way. She would find a way to come out OK and survive. Its time!
love
tim
Today I skipped walking with Ken and worked on the 4 plex in Ceres. Even though I worked on it solid from 5:30 to 9 I am far from completing it. At that point I had to take a quick shower and drive to Martinez to see a place, then on to Vallejo and finally to Fairfield. I was about 15 minutes from the house this morning when I reached for my phone only to discover I had left it in the bathroom at home. Without time to go back home I decided to face the day without it. What a lesson in dependence on a mechanical device. All day I've felt at risk without the ability to connect with my friends, family and the office / clients. When I tried to use the pay phone in Martinez I found it required 80 cents to place a call to the office. Loree was not in yet so that was a wasted call. Finally at the second inspection the kind lady allowed me to use her computer to send a yahoo message to Loree explaining what had happened. But it was at the last visit of the day that I really needed my phone.
When I knelt down to use the code and open the lockbox I found it empty, someone had removed the key so I had no access to the home and no phone to call the agent. I ended up measuring the house from the outside, peeking through the windows and then shooting comps in the area. I'll have to return once someone finds a key for me.
It is troubling how dependent I've become on having a cell phone. The inability to connect with Nikki or Jason, with clients, with Loree and the office, wow it was a real eye opener.
This evening I begged Lois to help me put the motorhome away and then we met with Keanna, Nikki and Kallie at LaVilla located in downtown Bethel Island. Kallie was good for awhile but eventually decided she had enough sitting. by then I was finished with my burrito dinner so she and I went for a walk about and saw spiders, feral kitties, a fire truck and felt the delta breezes blow over us. There is little that rivals hold little Kallie as she squirms and waves her arms and legs in glee over nothing. What a delightful experience and she is mine, I am the Pappa and I get to help with these three little tigers. Its a powerful blessing and sure wipes the frustrations of work aside with a joyful dose of reality.
For those of you who are not yet grandparents you just think I am babbling on, wait until it happens to you, ask Loren, or Wes about how sweet it is when it happens.
Good night, I send my love to each and every one of you.
In the past few days a gentle awakening has been taking place deep inside, tired of being defeated and trodden down I think I'll just go ahead and choose life, success, accomplishments, relationships, health. I'm tired of being the object of concern and even pity at times. Yea, a lot of bad stuff has happened, most of which I did everything I could to avoid and it happened anyway. I lost her after a 12 year battle that involved just about everything medical, financial, physical, emotional possible. So what now? What would Nan do? Well one thing is certain, she would not wallow in self pity and give up, no way. She would find a way to come out OK and survive. Its time!
love
tim
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Staying alive
Dear Family and Friends,
I'm writing early this evening as I intend to be in bed early as well. Today has been dedicated to inspecting a large 4 unit property in Ceres and then trying to locate comps to pull it together. In the process I discovered that the measuring wheel I had picked up in the garage this morning is totally unreliable. One wall was 16 feet, then 17 feet and finally 21 feet. So I threw that wheel out and went back to my less than perfect one. So i had to remeasure the entire building all over again. Then a key was missing for one of the units but it all worked out. As I was working I realized that I was having a low blood sugar moment, sweat starting dripping off my face and I felt faint, to the car, eat a bar and drink some juice. The comps were all over the place, hope the lender will even accept them.
Then back to Tracy for an oil change, it was way past time but only this week did I finally have money to pay for the service. Then to Mountain House to the Library to turn in a book Sylvia had checked out for me and went ahead and got a card so I can check out books on tape from them.
Now I'm heading to bed to get some much needed rest.
Life is so strange, I've been living under a cloud for weeks knowing that the change in ordering appraisals was coming, now after living in the new circumstances and orders are still coming in I guess I'm starting to relax a bit. However in the new world the lenders give you a very short turn time to get them back and that is difficult for me to cope with. I'll learn and it looks like I might survive too.
I'm thankful for friends, family and business contacts. Its a cold life, mostly work with an occasional moment of joy or contact like when Keanna came running in this evening, they were here for a few minutes to say hi, that was good stuff.
Good night
love
tim
I'm writing early this evening as I intend to be in bed early as well. Today has been dedicated to inspecting a large 4 unit property in Ceres and then trying to locate comps to pull it together. In the process I discovered that the measuring wheel I had picked up in the garage this morning is totally unreliable. One wall was 16 feet, then 17 feet and finally 21 feet. So I threw that wheel out and went back to my less than perfect one. So i had to remeasure the entire building all over again. Then a key was missing for one of the units but it all worked out. As I was working I realized that I was having a low blood sugar moment, sweat starting dripping off my face and I felt faint, to the car, eat a bar and drink some juice. The comps were all over the place, hope the lender will even accept them.
Then back to Tracy for an oil change, it was way past time but only this week did I finally have money to pay for the service. Then to Mountain House to the Library to turn in a book Sylvia had checked out for me and went ahead and got a card so I can check out books on tape from them.
Now I'm heading to bed to get some much needed rest.
Life is so strange, I've been living under a cloud for weeks knowing that the change in ordering appraisals was coming, now after living in the new circumstances and orders are still coming in I guess I'm starting to relax a bit. However in the new world the lenders give you a very short turn time to get them back and that is difficult for me to cope with. I'll learn and it looks like I might survive too.
I'm thankful for friends, family and business contacts. Its a cold life, mostly work with an occasional moment of joy or contact like when Keanna came running in this evening, they were here for a few minutes to say hi, that was good stuff.
Good night
love
tim
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Keanna gets an award
Dear Family and Friends,
Today has been a cooler day so less AC, less money wasted to PG&E. I walked with Ken this morning, then a quick shower and then research and on the road to Hayward. REO property which has not sold yet. Then a quick trip back to pick up Keanna from school, afternoon snack at Aladinos, a local pizza parlor where she played some video games, boy that takes me back to a time when her mother and uncle would beg for quarters so they could play video games in the same place, only it was Strawhat Pizza then.
Keanna and I came home to find Loree hard at work. Keanna set to work at "her" desk in the lower office and bugged Loree with questions about her girls and the horses pictured on the walls around her desk. Later as I was working I heard a very loud chirping. Well Moomoo had caught a bird and had it in the house. So Loree and Keanna came to the rescue and we called the bird whisperer, Lois. She came and took the bird home where it flew into the water and was rescued by its parents (we hope).
This evening at 6 there was a picnic at Keanna's school and afterwards an awards session. Each child was given an award which described what they are like in the classroom. When it came time for Keanna her award was for "the damsel in distress". Seems she is very good at getting other kids to come to her aid when there is work to do or a mess to pick up. I've included a few photos, one of the bird and the rest of Keanna at the event.
I think Suzie got to go home this afternoon at least that was what she told me on a call as I was driving back from Hayward. She was surprised to learn it was so soon.
Please keep our precious GIST friend Irene in your prayers. Her battle is a very real one right now against the tumors and she needs our support. She is a very brave and faithful woman but that does not mean she is above fear and concern.
Good night my friends and family,
love to all
Tim
Monday, May 18, 2009
certainly busy enough
Dear Family and Friends,
This will be short tonight. I've had an enjoyable day but did not begin to get enough work done. I'm such a social creature that given the choice of working or engaging in conversation well work gets the short end every time. Yet with this new wave of orders also comes very short turn times. I've got to make the turn times work hence the anxiety tonight.
This afternoon I drove over to Vacaville to do a driveby appraisal of a small ranchette. Finding all the comp photos takes a very long time with little gravel roads leading through the rolling hills and many homes fail to have their address number displayed anywhere.
I'm continuing to have work and new orders are arriving. Checks even came in the mail today which will help as the house payment is coming up soon. Today we dealt with payroll, tomorrow we'll start to deal with the other payments.
I spoke to Suzie this evening and she is recovering the point where they are considering a Wednesday or Thursday release. I can sense that she is uneasy with leaving the hospital but I also know she is very tired of it as well.
Life is certainly hurried and rushed right now. No time to relax or enjoy anything any more which makes the wonderful weekend so much more precious. It was good, very good.
So I send my love and hopes for a good week to one and all,
tim
This will be short tonight. I've had an enjoyable day but did not begin to get enough work done. I'm such a social creature that given the choice of working or engaging in conversation well work gets the short end every time. Yet with this new wave of orders also comes very short turn times. I've got to make the turn times work hence the anxiety tonight.
This afternoon I drove over to Vacaville to do a driveby appraisal of a small ranchette. Finding all the comp photos takes a very long time with little gravel roads leading through the rolling hills and many homes fail to have their address number displayed anywhere.
I'm continuing to have work and new orders are arriving. Checks even came in the mail today which will help as the house payment is coming up soon. Today we dealt with payroll, tomorrow we'll start to deal with the other payments.
I spoke to Suzie this evening and she is recovering the point where they are considering a Wednesday or Thursday release. I can sense that she is uneasy with leaving the hospital but I also know she is very tired of it as well.
Life is certainly hurried and rushed right now. No time to relax or enjoy anything any more which makes the wonderful weekend so much more precious. It was good, very good.
So I send my love and hopes for a good week to one and all,
tim
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Timothy makes sure Pappa has a good time!
Dear Family and Friends,
Well I'm home, back to the heat of the valley but the house is cooled to about 80 so its OK. My office has a little wall AC which brings it down more for my comfort. Seems strange, last night I had the furnace on in the motorhome and now its AC here. Oh well, what I great time I had. Everything worked out perfectly except for my terrible coughing all the time. I got to see Timothy a little on Friday night and spent the day with him on Sabbath. Timothy is a typical little boy and is very bright, alert, willfull, strong, determined and a good eater. He is a blast to watch in action. Whether it is at the beach or in the pool he is happy and moving.
The entire trip worked out well. I was able to see a property on Friday on the way and then enjoyed the motorhome, so did the dogs. This morning we rose about 8 and went for a walk. A huge group of bikers were riding their bikes through the campus, I think maybe thousands of them in all. The dogs thought that was interesting to watch all the people riding by. It made me tired to watch them, so much energy and fitness.
Jason help guide me out of the yard and around the guy wire and I was on my way. I've slowed down in the coach to just about 55. I seem to get a lot better mileage and I'm much more relaxed at that speed. Just get over in the slow lane and let the mob pass me by. I listened to more old time radio shows coming home as I drove. Since arriving home I've performed two inspections of properties and have one written and the partially written. I still have 6 appraisals to get to right away and they range from Ceres to Vacaville, Hayward to Martinez.
LeAnn had been so kind to bring the mail in. I found a fat envelope from the company that owes me so much money and it contained payment for 4 appraisals. What a huge boost that makes and I can do payroll with it.
I ventured into CostCo this afternoon after the second appraisal appointment. It was hot outside but nice inside the new Antioch store. I purchased more mocha, some diet ice tea, zero calories!, a case of olives, whole wheat buns and a case of lentil soup. It was fun to take a break and just go shopping.
The trip was well worth it and I still have 1/4 of the tank of fuel remaining. I would have liked to stay a couple more days to spend more time with Timothy but with work now on my desk I decided I needed to be responsible for a change.
Sending love to all tonight,
Tim
The photos show Jason, Jo and Timothy plus a snap shot of how the dogs travel with me as we go down the road.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
A great Sabbath
Dear Family and Friends,
I'm writing after an excellent day. This morning we took Timothy to Sabbath School. Mind you around here they take their little people real serious. The program is well thought out and carefully planned. Its a hoot for the kids and parents alike. Timothy is really into the various parts of the program. Then it was time for church. Todays program was produced by the musical groups and they were wonderful. Timothy made it most of the way through Church before leaving for an early nap at home.
By the time we got home Timothy was in the front yard in his tiny pool enjoying himself. After lunch we headed down to the beach to join other families and students as they enjoyed perfect temperatures, mild surf and warm sand.
Eventually we all tired of exposure to mild wind and sunshine and came back to the house where we all rested a bit.
This evening the Leoni's, long time friends of Jason and Jo came for a BBQ that Jason and Jo had prepared. I went on duty even though Timothy was sleeping while Jason and Jo went to a concert put on by the students. I watched a history channel program about Cary Grant which was very interesting.
Now I'm back to the motorhome and getting ready to catch some rest before facing a busy day tomorrow.
The sense of peace and calm over this campus along with perfect weather and good people has created an oasis in a busy and often stressful time for me. I'm deeply grateful for family and a chance to catch up with Timothy. I only wish that Keanna and Kallie could have been here to play on the beach too. That would have been fun. Timothy is making a lot of sense now with the words he uses and certainly lets his likes and dislikes known. He is a bright and funny boy.
So now its time for rest.
Love to all,
Tim
I'm writing after an excellent day. This morning we took Timothy to Sabbath School. Mind you around here they take their little people real serious. The program is well thought out and carefully planned. Its a hoot for the kids and parents alike. Timothy is really into the various parts of the program. Then it was time for church. Todays program was produced by the musical groups and they were wonderful. Timothy made it most of the way through Church before leaving for an early nap at home.
By the time we got home Timothy was in the front yard in his tiny pool enjoying himself. After lunch we headed down to the beach to join other families and students as they enjoyed perfect temperatures, mild surf and warm sand.
Eventually we all tired of exposure to mild wind and sunshine and came back to the house where we all rested a bit.
This evening the Leoni's, long time friends of Jason and Jo came for a BBQ that Jason and Jo had prepared. I went on duty even though Timothy was sleeping while Jason and Jo went to a concert put on by the students. I watched a history channel program about Cary Grant which was very interesting.
Now I'm back to the motorhome and getting ready to catch some rest before facing a busy day tomorrow.
The sense of peace and calm over this campus along with perfect weather and good people has created an oasis in a busy and often stressful time for me. I'm deeply grateful for family and a chance to catch up with Timothy. I only wish that Keanna and Kallie could have been here to play on the beach too. That would have been fun. Timothy is making a lot of sense now with the words he uses and certainly lets his likes and dislikes known. He is a bright and funny boy.
So now its time for rest.
Love to all,
Tim
Friday, May 15, 2009
Resting at MBA
Dear Family and Friends,
As I write I am sitting in the motorhome adjacent to Jason and Jo's house here at MBA. I am about 1/4 mile from Monterey Bay and if I listen intently I can hear the waves as they crash on the shore. The temperature has cooled to a point that the furnace is on in the motorhome to cut the chill. The dogs are both sleeping happy and contented that they are on the road again. They love the chance to go in the motorhome no matter where it is going. Today as I was loading food and supplied I insisted they stay in the house until the last minute since the motorhome had been sitting and was very hot. Each time I went out and closed the door in their little anxious faces they would begin to cry and complain. Finally I opened the door indicating that now was the time, they could run to the coach. Well they did and were totally ecstatic to finally be on board. Their fervor quickly dissipated as they felt the temperature. Soon we were on the road and the dash air began to struggle against the ambient temperature of the interior. They made frequent trips to the water dish for sips of cold bottled water and finally settled down on the passenger chair in front of the AC vents that are theirs to enjoy.
I too was ecstatic to be on the road. This has been a very challenging week on many fronts, emotional, physical, financial and at the base of all spiritual. One continually wonders, what does God have in mind for me, or is He still willing to hang in there with a faulty and very human individual, are there missions He has in mind that have not yet crossed my cerebral awareness?
Yet as I took stock this afternoon before leaving the office I counted 7 new orders on the board, some from management companies yet with very decent fees connected, others from individuals that I was unaware of until they called. In spite of my concluding that the world of COD payments was over nearly half are still COD in nature and I'll see immediate payments. So for a week that started with no orders and very little confidence that orders would be materializing here I am with 7 orders, all demanding immediate attention. It is a very calming progression in this process of adjusting to the new mandates from FNMA. Yes there might still be a way to survive financially in spite of the forced changes! And mind you there are at least 200 management companies I've not yet applied to.
On the way to MBA I included an appraisal inspection in San Jose. Now mind you locating a parking place that is long enough for a 29 foot motorhome is always challenging and today's inspection was in a condo project. The parking in and around a high density development is even more of a premium. I've learned though to stay calm and keep your eyes open, drive slowly and don't rule out anything. So after a few blocks there it was, the perfect spot, all I had to do was turn around in the middle of the street and get back to it. Having a TV camera in the back of the coach certainly helps and after a few turns and trys I was parked in my perfect spot. The walk back to the property was only a few blocks and felt good in the breeze cooling air.
What a delight the charming senior citizen owner was. She and her daughter were ready and waiting and full of love and at peace with the world. I asked how long she had lived there and I was shocked to discover that she has made this little condo, 840 Sq.Ft. her home for 33 years. The back yard beamed with dozens of different plants and flowers, there were treasured rocks, stepping stones created as projects and a tall stand of trees between her yard and a busy street nearby. I was made to feel right at home and we conversed as I delineated features and took photographs. All to soon it was time to take my leave and we said good bye.
I dreaded the traffic that was sure to be crammed into the narrow lanes of highway 17 as it winds its way over the mountain range yet I found I had little resistance and in a few minutes I was on the newly updated Highway 1 heading for the last leg of the trip. I had started a conversation with Sharon who was home putting the finishing touches on her house in Texas for Sabbath. We continued our call as I drove over 17, then 1 and I only signed off when I reached San Andreas Road as I knew the cell signal would fail there.
You would chuckle if you saw the dash in the motorhome. I moved over the GPS and I have it to the left attached to the one small piece of dash that will hold the suction. In the middle of the dash I have the XM radio which I had moved from the bug to the coach and next to it is a small device that tells the time of day and the interior temperature or exterior temperature of the motorhome. As I drove everything worked perfectly and I enjoyed the trip down very much. I no longer try to rush when driving the motorhome. It gets much better fuel economy at 55, about 10 miles per gallon and I'm still driving on left over fuel from the church campout of a couple weeks ago.
When I arrived here Jason heard the coach and came out to direct me into place. There is a guy wire that performs an important function for a long power line and phone lines. I hit that wire once and since then I get help driving in to avoid a disaster. Jason guided me right around the wire and now I'm settled in with my awning out, the indoor out door carpet in place, hooked up to their power, water and cable TV.
Timothy was nearing bedtime when I arrived but I got to see him for a little bit. He is no little boy anymore but growing tall and strong. He moves so gracefully and runs from place to place. He has a wonderful mind of his own which of course drives mom and day nuts. Yet we all know he is a very good boy and loved tons and tons.
A minute ago Suzie was able to get a call through to me from her hospital bed at UCSF. She is really suffering as they work to find the right balance of pain control for her. She is also coping with seeing her mom and sister leave to return to Weed today. All in all it was great to talk to her for a minute before the lack of cell signal here moved to squelch our connection.
When I get a chance to get away there is a silent hero who makes these trips possible. LeAnn is an expert on caring for a reef tank as she and Ken had one for years and raised just about every kind of exotic fish and critter that could be had. She is kind enough to come over and make sure my fish are fed, that the water level is correct and tonight was kind enough to come over and turn out the new light. I forgot to turn it off before I left and it is not yet on a timer. What I forgot to tell her was I left the AC on to a high setting so the house would not get too warm and over heat the fish tank.
For the first time in a very long time the office files and accounting is close to being up to date. Loree has been faithfully slaving over the mounds of paper that seem to take on a life of their own when I work alone. It felt good to walk through the lower office today and see most everything in its place. As Sylvia pointed out the other day thanks to helpful people gradually things are fitting into place. Ray helped fix the broken water drain in the wall and now I can do laundry without drowning, the repair person who came to fix the leak but only discovered it but could not fix it instead worked on the dryer removing a huge pile of lint from the long line and now the dryer completes the load in 1 cycle, not 3 or 4. How nice it is to have things work right. Steve installed a new high power light over the reef tank this week and for the first time in years it is lite properly and looks great. How encouraging thanks to his kindness and abilities. Lois has made sure I had some meals this week when I felt so rough, its nice to have someone check up on you when you feel lousy and I'm loaded with banana bread here in the motorhome thanks to her generosity.
This afternoon just before I left an email came in from a company that owes me a great deal of money, nearly $20,000. The email promised that several checks have gone out, that is my way so come Monday I should be able to make payroll. That will be great news too.
I hope you have had a healthy week with joy, good surprises and evidences that God does care for you.
So I send love to all,
Tim
As I write I am sitting in the motorhome adjacent to Jason and Jo's house here at MBA. I am about 1/4 mile from Monterey Bay and if I listen intently I can hear the waves as they crash on the shore. The temperature has cooled to a point that the furnace is on in the motorhome to cut the chill. The dogs are both sleeping happy and contented that they are on the road again. They love the chance to go in the motorhome no matter where it is going. Today as I was loading food and supplied I insisted they stay in the house until the last minute since the motorhome had been sitting and was very hot. Each time I went out and closed the door in their little anxious faces they would begin to cry and complain. Finally I opened the door indicating that now was the time, they could run to the coach. Well they did and were totally ecstatic to finally be on board. Their fervor quickly dissipated as they felt the temperature. Soon we were on the road and the dash air began to struggle against the ambient temperature of the interior. They made frequent trips to the water dish for sips of cold bottled water and finally settled down on the passenger chair in front of the AC vents that are theirs to enjoy.
I too was ecstatic to be on the road. This has been a very challenging week on many fronts, emotional, physical, financial and at the base of all spiritual. One continually wonders, what does God have in mind for me, or is He still willing to hang in there with a faulty and very human individual, are there missions He has in mind that have not yet crossed my cerebral awareness?
Yet as I took stock this afternoon before leaving the office I counted 7 new orders on the board, some from management companies yet with very decent fees connected, others from individuals that I was unaware of until they called. In spite of my concluding that the world of COD payments was over nearly half are still COD in nature and I'll see immediate payments. So for a week that started with no orders and very little confidence that orders would be materializing here I am with 7 orders, all demanding immediate attention. It is a very calming progression in this process of adjusting to the new mandates from FNMA. Yes there might still be a way to survive financially in spite of the forced changes! And mind you there are at least 200 management companies I've not yet applied to.
On the way to MBA I included an appraisal inspection in San Jose. Now mind you locating a parking place that is long enough for a 29 foot motorhome is always challenging and today's inspection was in a condo project. The parking in and around a high density development is even more of a premium. I've learned though to stay calm and keep your eyes open, drive slowly and don't rule out anything. So after a few blocks there it was, the perfect spot, all I had to do was turn around in the middle of the street and get back to it. Having a TV camera in the back of the coach certainly helps and after a few turns and trys I was parked in my perfect spot. The walk back to the property was only a few blocks and felt good in the breeze cooling air.
What a delight the charming senior citizen owner was. She and her daughter were ready and waiting and full of love and at peace with the world. I asked how long she had lived there and I was shocked to discover that she has made this little condo, 840 Sq.Ft. her home for 33 years. The back yard beamed with dozens of different plants and flowers, there were treasured rocks, stepping stones created as projects and a tall stand of trees between her yard and a busy street nearby. I was made to feel right at home and we conversed as I delineated features and took photographs. All to soon it was time to take my leave and we said good bye.
I dreaded the traffic that was sure to be crammed into the narrow lanes of highway 17 as it winds its way over the mountain range yet I found I had little resistance and in a few minutes I was on the newly updated Highway 1 heading for the last leg of the trip. I had started a conversation with Sharon who was home putting the finishing touches on her house in Texas for Sabbath. We continued our call as I drove over 17, then 1 and I only signed off when I reached San Andreas Road as I knew the cell signal would fail there.
You would chuckle if you saw the dash in the motorhome. I moved over the GPS and I have it to the left attached to the one small piece of dash that will hold the suction. In the middle of the dash I have the XM radio which I had moved from the bug to the coach and next to it is a small device that tells the time of day and the interior temperature or exterior temperature of the motorhome. As I drove everything worked perfectly and I enjoyed the trip down very much. I no longer try to rush when driving the motorhome. It gets much better fuel economy at 55, about 10 miles per gallon and I'm still driving on left over fuel from the church campout of a couple weeks ago.
When I arrived here Jason heard the coach and came out to direct me into place. There is a guy wire that performs an important function for a long power line and phone lines. I hit that wire once and since then I get help driving in to avoid a disaster. Jason guided me right around the wire and now I'm settled in with my awning out, the indoor out door carpet in place, hooked up to their power, water and cable TV.
Timothy was nearing bedtime when I arrived but I got to see him for a little bit. He is no little boy anymore but growing tall and strong. He moves so gracefully and runs from place to place. He has a wonderful mind of his own which of course drives mom and day nuts. Yet we all know he is a very good boy and loved tons and tons.
A minute ago Suzie was able to get a call through to me from her hospital bed at UCSF. She is really suffering as they work to find the right balance of pain control for her. She is also coping with seeing her mom and sister leave to return to Weed today. All in all it was great to talk to her for a minute before the lack of cell signal here moved to squelch our connection.
When I get a chance to get away there is a silent hero who makes these trips possible. LeAnn is an expert on caring for a reef tank as she and Ken had one for years and raised just about every kind of exotic fish and critter that could be had. She is kind enough to come over and make sure my fish are fed, that the water level is correct and tonight was kind enough to come over and turn out the new light. I forgot to turn it off before I left and it is not yet on a timer. What I forgot to tell her was I left the AC on to a high setting so the house would not get too warm and over heat the fish tank.
For the first time in a very long time the office files and accounting is close to being up to date. Loree has been faithfully slaving over the mounds of paper that seem to take on a life of their own when I work alone. It felt good to walk through the lower office today and see most everything in its place. As Sylvia pointed out the other day thanks to helpful people gradually things are fitting into place. Ray helped fix the broken water drain in the wall and now I can do laundry without drowning, the repair person who came to fix the leak but only discovered it but could not fix it instead worked on the dryer removing a huge pile of lint from the long line and now the dryer completes the load in 1 cycle, not 3 or 4. How nice it is to have things work right. Steve installed a new high power light over the reef tank this week and for the first time in years it is lite properly and looks great. How encouraging thanks to his kindness and abilities. Lois has made sure I had some meals this week when I felt so rough, its nice to have someone check up on you when you feel lousy and I'm loaded with banana bread here in the motorhome thanks to her generosity.
This afternoon just before I left an email came in from a company that owes me a great deal of money, nearly $20,000. The email promised that several checks have gone out, that is my way so come Monday I should be able to make payroll. That will be great news too.
I hope you have had a healthy week with joy, good surprises and evidences that God does care for you.
So I send love to all,
Tim
Thursday, May 14, 2009
creeping forward
Hi
9:45 and this day is finally over. High points were Ken and I walked and lived through it, Loree and I had lunch and it tasted good, Suzie is getting better, first order of the day came in at 6 am from Chevy Chase, a full price fee and in Hayward, nice way to start. Later in the day a second order came in from a new client for Ceres and has a big fee, its a 4 unit report! I was very pleased to see the orders.
This afternoon I stopped by Dr. Jim's office for a Kenalog shot, my spelling is probably wrong but the shot is one that nan and I both used to get at least once a year to quell the effects of allergies. Jim thinks it will help the problems I am having, the heavy duty coughing, head aches, congestion, mild fevers.
On the way home tonight I checked in with Nikki and Steve and she had just prepared some yummy cottage cheese loaf so got to have a plate when I stopped in for a minute. Was that ever nice.
Now I'm heading to bed. Another day without money in the mail and the checking account is dwindling down needing another infusion. Will this cycle ever end?
For now I'll just forget the day and grab some zzzzzs.
love to all
Tim
9:45 and this day is finally over. High points were Ken and I walked and lived through it, Loree and I had lunch and it tasted good, Suzie is getting better, first order of the day came in at 6 am from Chevy Chase, a full price fee and in Hayward, nice way to start. Later in the day a second order came in from a new client for Ceres and has a big fee, its a 4 unit report! I was very pleased to see the orders.
This afternoon I stopped by Dr. Jim's office for a Kenalog shot, my spelling is probably wrong but the shot is one that nan and I both used to get at least once a year to quell the effects of allergies. Jim thinks it will help the problems I am having, the heavy duty coughing, head aches, congestion, mild fevers.
On the way home tonight I checked in with Nikki and Steve and she had just prepared some yummy cottage cheese loaf so got to have a plate when I stopped in for a minute. Was that ever nice.
Now I'm heading to bed. Another day without money in the mail and the checking account is dwindling down needing another infusion. Will this cycle ever end?
For now I'll just forget the day and grab some zzzzzs.
love to all
Tim
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
moving ahead.
Good evening
I'm just back from Safeway after picking up a few things to keep the frig from being empty. Lois treated me with a salad at McDonalds this evening. The salad was great and I've found a dressing that is very low in calories but great in taste. Thankyou Lois.
Last night after I blogged I headed for bed. After about an hour of sleep I woke up and was experiencing some strange pains in my chest. I thought it through and decided that they were from coughing so hard and so long all day and not heart problems. Giving up on going back to sleep and beginning to run through all the bad moments of the day I ventured downstairs, got a glass of water, rinsed out the sinus cavity and wrote some emails. Finally I felt better and went up and right to sleep so getting up this morning was not all that fun. However the second I woke up I knew I was feeling better. Today I've had much less illness and less head ache, less pressure. I've also been able to get some things done including doing on line applications for a couple more management companies. Loree was here and is going great at getting all the files in order, the checks logged in and the paid files put away in the garage. Its been nice to have her here working so hard to get things in order.
Suzie had a pretty good day and is looking forward to the battle ahead for her. She won't get to really have a discussion with the doctor until tomorrow afternoon as the doctor has become ill and was out today. Donna and family have been faithfully standing by helping and encouraging her. If I feel better I will try to get by and see her tomorrow afternoon. I have to plan ahead as SF is not just around the corner and with traffic it can get tough to manage.
I am continuing to pray and hope for work, so far none has come in and that side of my board is the clearest it has been for as long as I can remember. Even FHA orders are come getting through and they are not effected by the changes required by FNMA. To think that FNMA is lecturing and brow beating us about our work is amazing. They are the root of the problem the entire industry is in, making terrible loans and forcing those loans on America, now they lecture us and ruin our lives. pretty amazing.
Yes I am fairly upbeat. I believe that things will work out. This weekend I'm considering getting out of town and visiting Jason, Jo and Timothy at MBA. The weather is supposed to be perfect and it will be wonderful to get to see the little guy in action again. He is nearly 2 years old as Kallie approaches her 1 year mark. Having the chance to be in the middle of all these little people is just great stuff on every front.
So how are you doing? Are you holding up OK in spite of the times we live in? How I treasure any contact we get to have with each other. I feel that in spite of losing my precious Nan I remain a very fortunate person in the wealth of all my friends, people caring about people is the highest form of Christianity. Its what Jesus did, its what we get to do.
Love to all
Tim
I'm just back from Safeway after picking up a few things to keep the frig from being empty. Lois treated me with a salad at McDonalds this evening. The salad was great and I've found a dressing that is very low in calories but great in taste. Thankyou Lois.
Last night after I blogged I headed for bed. After about an hour of sleep I woke up and was experiencing some strange pains in my chest. I thought it through and decided that they were from coughing so hard and so long all day and not heart problems. Giving up on going back to sleep and beginning to run through all the bad moments of the day I ventured downstairs, got a glass of water, rinsed out the sinus cavity and wrote some emails. Finally I felt better and went up and right to sleep so getting up this morning was not all that fun. However the second I woke up I knew I was feeling better. Today I've had much less illness and less head ache, less pressure. I've also been able to get some things done including doing on line applications for a couple more management companies. Loree was here and is going great at getting all the files in order, the checks logged in and the paid files put away in the garage. Its been nice to have her here working so hard to get things in order.
Suzie had a pretty good day and is looking forward to the battle ahead for her. She won't get to really have a discussion with the doctor until tomorrow afternoon as the doctor has become ill and was out today. Donna and family have been faithfully standing by helping and encouraging her. If I feel better I will try to get by and see her tomorrow afternoon. I have to plan ahead as SF is not just around the corner and with traffic it can get tough to manage.
I am continuing to pray and hope for work, so far none has come in and that side of my board is the clearest it has been for as long as I can remember. Even FHA orders are come getting through and they are not effected by the changes required by FNMA. To think that FNMA is lecturing and brow beating us about our work is amazing. They are the root of the problem the entire industry is in, making terrible loans and forcing those loans on America, now they lecture us and ruin our lives. pretty amazing.
Yes I am fairly upbeat. I believe that things will work out. This weekend I'm considering getting out of town and visiting Jason, Jo and Timothy at MBA. The weather is supposed to be perfect and it will be wonderful to get to see the little guy in action again. He is nearly 2 years old as Kallie approaches her 1 year mark. Having the chance to be in the middle of all these little people is just great stuff on every front.
So how are you doing? Are you holding up OK in spite of the times we live in? How I treasure any contact we get to have with each other. I feel that in spite of losing my precious Nan I remain a very fortunate person in the wealth of all my friends, people caring about people is the highest form of Christianity. Its what Jesus did, its what we get to do.
Love to all
Tim
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Surgery not successful, Suzie is coping.
Dear Family and Friends,
Jerry called mid day to tell me that the surgery at UCSF for Suzie had an unhappy outcome. When the medical team reached the tumor they found it had its roots in the aorta. They determined that the tumor could not be removed. So the surgery lasted a much shorter time than expected and after Suzie woke up her mom had to tell her the sad news. Everyone is shocked and saddened but there is a real sense of fight in the room. Both radiation and chemo will be considered to manage the tumor and try to reduce it. Suzie is a tiny person though and certainly faces serious challenges as she looks forward. While I was planning to drive in to visit Lois wisely pointed out that in my condition with severe coughing, head aches, sore throat and a stuffy head I was not a good candidate to visit someone just beginning to recover from surgery. Instead I did an inspection of a beautiful home in Brentwood and then came home.
This morning Ken had not called so I decided to take the walk on my own. I managed pretty good time and then did a bit of house cleaning in case someone was coming to stay tonight. Then after oatmeal and a good shower I settled in for work in the office.
You've heard me mention conditions before. Conditions are things the underwriter wants changed in the appraisal report you have submitted. They can be all the way from tiny spelling changes to huge requests for additional information or major changes. Well the set of conditions I worked on this morning cost me 3 hours of precious office time and to add to the joy there is no guarantee that this loan will ever close and if it does not I'll be paid nothing.
I had the sincere pleasure of welcoming Loree back to the office today to work. She waded into getting the files in order and made huge progress. She not only makes the whole office have a nicer scent she also provides excitement for the animals who all took turns visiting her as she worked.
Keanna came to visit this afternoon at 2 and after a quick stop at McDonalds we came back and she also "helped" Loree a lot as they worked side by side. At 4 I took Keanna to the dentist, she was so excited about going. I'm not sure what they do but this girl is a true believer. Did I ever enjoy going to the dentist that much? Doubt it. And speaking of such, I'm starting to have a spot that I can tell will need attention from a dentist but of course that requires money and since there is none of that, lets just hope the pain stays minor.
Its been a day of minimal new business and trying to get the things I have already seen done and out the door. I could use more hours in a day, lots more hours.
I was thinking this evening about divorce. Especially I want to speak to the guys out there who are tempted to think the grass is greener, the other woman is prettier, well she actually might be but take away the makeup and the special clothes and she might not be so extra special. I think it is worth it to try to stick around and fall in love again over and over again rather than jump the fence and try to find happiness over there. Living together is a real challenge and there are times when there is physical beatings taking place that the only answer is the road, get out while you can. However many marriages break up over far less. Why do guys take so long to grow up, to wise up, to learn to listen to their wives? Why do guys think they always have to make the big decisions? I know it has taken me a life time to grow up and I'm not there yet.
A few words to guys, just calm down, listen with your eyes and heart to the real message, not the actual words, admit when you are wrong and when you are right. Try some tenderness instead of being tough. Are your buddies really more fun to be with than your family, sure you deserve buddy time but your family deserves you too.
This old country of ours is not on a good path. There will be huge inflation in the future, higher taxes will effect us all so we need to build even stronger relationships with family and friends, bonds that are not build on financial ties but on much more important ones, ones of the heart. I count my family and friends as the most important part of my life. Having Keanna for a little while this afternoon provided the smiles. At one point she told me, stop trying to impress me with big important words, I was amazed and delighted. I love to explain what things mean, what words mean, how people accomplish what they do. She is a God given blessing to me at this point in both of our lives.
Please put Suzie on your prayer lists, ask others to pray that God will be free to do what He knows is best for her and her family.
love
tim
Jerry called mid day to tell me that the surgery at UCSF for Suzie had an unhappy outcome. When the medical team reached the tumor they found it had its roots in the aorta. They determined that the tumor could not be removed. So the surgery lasted a much shorter time than expected and after Suzie woke up her mom had to tell her the sad news. Everyone is shocked and saddened but there is a real sense of fight in the room. Both radiation and chemo will be considered to manage the tumor and try to reduce it. Suzie is a tiny person though and certainly faces serious challenges as she looks forward. While I was planning to drive in to visit Lois wisely pointed out that in my condition with severe coughing, head aches, sore throat and a stuffy head I was not a good candidate to visit someone just beginning to recover from surgery. Instead I did an inspection of a beautiful home in Brentwood and then came home.
This morning Ken had not called so I decided to take the walk on my own. I managed pretty good time and then did a bit of house cleaning in case someone was coming to stay tonight. Then after oatmeal and a good shower I settled in for work in the office.
You've heard me mention conditions before. Conditions are things the underwriter wants changed in the appraisal report you have submitted. They can be all the way from tiny spelling changes to huge requests for additional information or major changes. Well the set of conditions I worked on this morning cost me 3 hours of precious office time and to add to the joy there is no guarantee that this loan will ever close and if it does not I'll be paid nothing.
I had the sincere pleasure of welcoming Loree back to the office today to work. She waded into getting the files in order and made huge progress. She not only makes the whole office have a nicer scent she also provides excitement for the animals who all took turns visiting her as she worked.
Keanna came to visit this afternoon at 2 and after a quick stop at McDonalds we came back and she also "helped" Loree a lot as they worked side by side. At 4 I took Keanna to the dentist, she was so excited about going. I'm not sure what they do but this girl is a true believer. Did I ever enjoy going to the dentist that much? Doubt it. And speaking of such, I'm starting to have a spot that I can tell will need attention from a dentist but of course that requires money and since there is none of that, lets just hope the pain stays minor.
Its been a day of minimal new business and trying to get the things I have already seen done and out the door. I could use more hours in a day, lots more hours.
I was thinking this evening about divorce. Especially I want to speak to the guys out there who are tempted to think the grass is greener, the other woman is prettier, well she actually might be but take away the makeup and the special clothes and she might not be so extra special. I think it is worth it to try to stick around and fall in love again over and over again rather than jump the fence and try to find happiness over there. Living together is a real challenge and there are times when there is physical beatings taking place that the only answer is the road, get out while you can. However many marriages break up over far less. Why do guys take so long to grow up, to wise up, to learn to listen to their wives? Why do guys think they always have to make the big decisions? I know it has taken me a life time to grow up and I'm not there yet.
A few words to guys, just calm down, listen with your eyes and heart to the real message, not the actual words, admit when you are wrong and when you are right. Try some tenderness instead of being tough. Are your buddies really more fun to be with than your family, sure you deserve buddy time but your family deserves you too.
This old country of ours is not on a good path. There will be huge inflation in the future, higher taxes will effect us all so we need to build even stronger relationships with family and friends, bonds that are not build on financial ties but on much more important ones, ones of the heart. I count my family and friends as the most important part of my life. Having Keanna for a little while this afternoon provided the smiles. At one point she told me, stop trying to impress me with big important words, I was amazed and delighted. I love to explain what things mean, what words mean, how people accomplish what they do. She is a God given blessing to me at this point in both of our lives.
Please put Suzie on your prayer lists, ask others to pray that God will be free to do what He knows is best for her and her family.
love
tim
Monday, May 11, 2009
500th blog
Good evening
So how was your day? Were there moments of beauty that surprised you? Sounds of music that delighted or kind words that soothed the beast? I missed all of that today, sorry.
I passed on walking this morning as I felt so rough last night when I went to bed, fever, coughing constantly, drainage--just felt lousy and that continued most of the day today. I cranked out appraisal work this morning, was chewed out by a client that owes me nearly $20K and my first response in email form was wisely deleted by me. I thought first and then replied with facts but got no where. Later I drove to Morgan Hill which turned out to be about 1.5 hours distant. There I found a very nice gentleman who lost his beloved wife 11 years ago. He has lots of toys, tractors, trailers, campers, many mercedes parked here and there and a really nice place with a huge barn. Oh it looked so inviting for projects and wasting time. As I drove out his little court I began to realize that not eating since oatmeal early this morning was catching up. Sometimes when I feel really lousy I fail to notice the signs of low blood sugar. I asked the GPS for a place to eat nearby and it spit out Marie Calendars, just 3 miles away. It is not often that I enjoy a meal as much as I did today, it was simple with just soup and salad bar and ice tea but it all tasted so good. While I was at the table I worked the file to discover where the comps were on a map and finally left to go back to work. On my way home I spoke to both Steve and Nikki and discovered that Steve was doing a very nice thing for me at the house. He brought over the girls who played and Mela boo, his lab so she could swim. She had a great time in the lake and tried to inspire Jazz, the beautiful lab from next door to swim but Jazz is not ready to take the plunge yet. Steve had discovered a big lighting fixture that was on its way to the dump and rescued it, remade it and painted it and now it hangs above my reef tank providing the best light the tank has ever seen. It is beautiful. He also took some of the bad things growing in the tank out, cleaned up some of the rock and helped the tank a whole lot. Steve is this amazing guy who can do just about anything and do it well. He has the tools and he knows how to use them. On the way out I remembered that I had the new mirror for the van that I had broken as I backed it out of the garage many months ago. Honda wanted $50 to snap it in and in 5 minutes Steve figured out how to take the old one out and put the new one into place.
When I checked the mail today I did not come up empty handed, there were some checks which came at a very good time as I have many people to pay, a cell phone to keep connected, a car payment overdue etc. Thank you Lord for checks, its like a transfusion to a weakened person and a total blessing.
I'm now going to bed and get some rest. I hope, I pray that I'll feel better soon. This current reality is not fun at all.
love to all,
Tim
ps the sign has a happy birthday to Keanna, next she will have her name in lights.
note the happy expressions on Jason, Jo and Timothy's faces as they escaped for a day to a fun place.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mothers Day to you wonderful mothers! You make life worth living.
Dear Ones,
Well I'm sick again, not sure how it happened but I woke with a sore throat and its been really rough all day. I've managed to get some work done, tomato plans planted, flowers out to Nan's resting place compliments of Ray and Lois. It always seems so unreal to visit her there as she never stayed in one place very long during her interesting life.
It was surreal today, I knew I should be doing something for someone but I knew Steve and Jason were celebrating mothers day with Nikki and Jo so all my instincts not to mess up and forget Mothers day were for naught.
It was a lovely day I guess but most of it for me was napping in the recliner.
Early afternoon I was feeling especially bed and thought perhaps some good food would help. Here is what I prepared and I can recommend it.
I had brown rice already cooked and prepared it in a frying pan with a little oil and some soy sauce over low heat. At the same time I had a package of mixed veges steaming in the microwave in their packaging direct from Safeway. I used a combo of edamae, green beans, mushrooms which I would cook the full 6 minutes next time. The edamae really needs to be cooked completely. I diced a fresh tomato and then put the veges over the bed of rice and sprinkled the tomatoes on the top. The result was outstanding, tasty, healthy and very filling. The soy sauce I used was a light version but the taste it added was excellent. I used about 1/2 cup of brown rice.
Can anyone tell me how to keep brown potatoes fresh? At this time I just keep them out on the counter but I notice they go bad pretty fast and start growing green shoots.
Well I'm facing one of the most challenging weeks in my 20 years of appraising. I have almost no work left to do. Tomorrow I'm seeing a place in Morgan Hill for a reverse mortgage and I have one divorce appraial and one driveby here in Discovery Bay. Then I'm caught up. I would ask for your prayers that the future will made a little clearer to me than it is now.
So good night to all,
love
tim
Well I'm sick again, not sure how it happened but I woke with a sore throat and its been really rough all day. I've managed to get some work done, tomato plans planted, flowers out to Nan's resting place compliments of Ray and Lois. It always seems so unreal to visit her there as she never stayed in one place very long during her interesting life.
It was surreal today, I knew I should be doing something for someone but I knew Steve and Jason were celebrating mothers day with Nikki and Jo so all my instincts not to mess up and forget Mothers day were for naught.
It was a lovely day I guess but most of it for me was napping in the recliner.
Early afternoon I was feeling especially bed and thought perhaps some good food would help. Here is what I prepared and I can recommend it.
I had brown rice already cooked and prepared it in a frying pan with a little oil and some soy sauce over low heat. At the same time I had a package of mixed veges steaming in the microwave in their packaging direct from Safeway. I used a combo of edamae, green beans, mushrooms which I would cook the full 6 minutes next time. The edamae really needs to be cooked completely. I diced a fresh tomato and then put the veges over the bed of rice and sprinkled the tomatoes on the top. The result was outstanding, tasty, healthy and very filling. The soy sauce I used was a light version but the taste it added was excellent. I used about 1/2 cup of brown rice.
Can anyone tell me how to keep brown potatoes fresh? At this time I just keep them out on the counter but I notice they go bad pretty fast and start growing green shoots.
Well I'm facing one of the most challenging weeks in my 20 years of appraising. I have almost no work left to do. Tomorrow I'm seeing a place in Morgan Hill for a reverse mortgage and I have one divorce appraial and one driveby here in Discovery Bay. Then I'm caught up. I would ask for your prayers that the future will made a little clearer to me than it is now.
So good night to all,
love
tim
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Rested and ready
Dear Family and Friends,
In life there are so many bends in the road and intersections to force directional decisions. As long as we are alive we must choose, most decisions end up being either for God and good or for self and ultimately bad. Sometimes situations happen that force decisions on us that we would not have to make otherwise. Fight or flee, charm or disarm, reach out, reach in.
Today has been a day which required very little decision making.
After an interesting night which included a 12:30 session holding Kallie in my arms as she cried and then the wonderful sight of her mother in the doorway, wonderful for us both, Kallie reached up for her and I willingly surrendered. I had allowed the room to be too warm and she was miserable, in my anxious desire to keep her warm enough I had allowed the room to become too warm and she was miserable. Nikki changed her diaper and moved her into cooler clothes. Why is it that she laid still while her mother changed her and was a squirming machine when I done so. Somethings about life are not totally fair. So Kallie and her mother drove home after she downed a bottle. Keanna slept through it all fortunately and did not rise until 7 this morning. So I slept between 1:45 and 7. Keanna found the camcorder and had fun learning to use it to shoot a scene with me still in bed, speaking in a British accent. She got a kick out of that. I love to teach her to do new things and today she added video taping to her skills.
I pulled on sweats and we made Belgium waffles which turned out perfectly this time. She enjoyed her breakfast and then we drove to Tracy SDA Church for Sabbath School. Today we went to the Kingdom Kids program which is operated by Sylvia, Pat, Wes and Rod. They do a wonderful job with the class and Keanna learned many things and enjoyed getting to see her special friend Sylvia.
Knowing Nikki was on her way to meet us at Olive Garden for lunch we took time to stop at the McDonalds playground where she worked off some energy. Then we met up with Nikki and Kallie, had a lovely lunch and each went our own way. My way was to the big Lazy Boy leather recliner that has seen so much action over the years. As 3ABN played softly in the background I snoozed with faith Starr at my side and Lady at my feet. It was a pleasant afternoon with warm breezes blowing through the family room.
This evening Lois invited me to have a sandwich at Subway and their Gardenburger on wheat bread is excellent. When we came back it was growing dark but the front lawn called to me so as Lois sat in the driveway and supervised I mowed the tiny lawn, fed it, watered it, then put seed down (the label said to use by 1997) which I hope works for the brown spots, watered it again and then Ray arrived from San Jose for his two or three day stay.
It was the kind of day that reconnects one with cool breezes, good friends, precious Bible stories, family and kidos, phone calls to special friends, rest and calm emotional rebuilding.
I hope your Mothers day weekend is going great. Tomorrow morning I'll take flowers to Nan's gravesite and spend some time there. No reason to go to brunch at Marie Calendar's, no reason to find just the right card and gift. Just emptiness and a host of great memories.
Love to all,
Tim
In life there are so many bends in the road and intersections to force directional decisions. As long as we are alive we must choose, most decisions end up being either for God and good or for self and ultimately bad. Sometimes situations happen that force decisions on us that we would not have to make otherwise. Fight or flee, charm or disarm, reach out, reach in.
Today has been a day which required very little decision making.
After an interesting night which included a 12:30 session holding Kallie in my arms as she cried and then the wonderful sight of her mother in the doorway, wonderful for us both, Kallie reached up for her and I willingly surrendered. I had allowed the room to be too warm and she was miserable, in my anxious desire to keep her warm enough I had allowed the room to become too warm and she was miserable. Nikki changed her diaper and moved her into cooler clothes. Why is it that she laid still while her mother changed her and was a squirming machine when I done so. Somethings about life are not totally fair. So Kallie and her mother drove home after she downed a bottle. Keanna slept through it all fortunately and did not rise until 7 this morning. So I slept between 1:45 and 7. Keanna found the camcorder and had fun learning to use it to shoot a scene with me still in bed, speaking in a British accent. She got a kick out of that. I love to teach her to do new things and today she added video taping to her skills.
I pulled on sweats and we made Belgium waffles which turned out perfectly this time. She enjoyed her breakfast and then we drove to Tracy SDA Church for Sabbath School. Today we went to the Kingdom Kids program which is operated by Sylvia, Pat, Wes and Rod. They do a wonderful job with the class and Keanna learned many things and enjoyed getting to see her special friend Sylvia.
Knowing Nikki was on her way to meet us at Olive Garden for lunch we took time to stop at the McDonalds playground where she worked off some energy. Then we met up with Nikki and Kallie, had a lovely lunch and each went our own way. My way was to the big Lazy Boy leather recliner that has seen so much action over the years. As 3ABN played softly in the background I snoozed with faith Starr at my side and Lady at my feet. It was a pleasant afternoon with warm breezes blowing through the family room.
This evening Lois invited me to have a sandwich at Subway and their Gardenburger on wheat bread is excellent. When we came back it was growing dark but the front lawn called to me so as Lois sat in the driveway and supervised I mowed the tiny lawn, fed it, watered it, then put seed down (the label said to use by 1997) which I hope works for the brown spots, watered it again and then Ray arrived from San Jose for his two or three day stay.
It was the kind of day that reconnects one with cool breezes, good friends, precious Bible stories, family and kidos, phone calls to special friends, rest and calm emotional rebuilding.
I hope your Mothers day weekend is going great. Tomorrow morning I'll take flowers to Nan's gravesite and spend some time there. No reason to go to brunch at Marie Calendar's, no reason to find just the right card and gift. Just emptiness and a host of great memories.
Love to all,
Tim
Friday, May 8, 2009
Kidos are sleeping!
Dear Family and Friends,
Well here is is Friday evening, the house is quiet except for Kallie who is coughing tonight as she sleeps and I hear it over the monitor. Keanna read me a story tonight, that was really thrilling, how far we have come. She ate a huge plate of pasta, drank apple juice and played her video game, helped with Kallie and was her normal delightful self. Kallie has really turned full circle. Remember all that smiling and happy act! Well we have grown a bit. This evening I walked behind her as she crawled the length of the house several times, made it almost to the top of the stairs going to the upper level of the house and then came back down with help, would not sit in my arms in the rocker but wiggled and squirmed until she was back on the floor. She takes a couple steps here and there but walks well if holding onto anything. She drinks milk when she feels like it and throws it on the floor too, she is strong, will mimic anything you say or do, clap your hands, say boo, she is right back at you. She still smiles but only when she slows down enough between motions.
She blessed me with a pretty hefty diaper and between changing her, putting her into night clothes and attempting to keep her on the bed I was kicked, all four arms and legs were going in their own orbit and she alternated between laughing and crying as I took some time doing what her mother or father would do in seconds. Half a package of wipes later and with sweat running down my forehead she was clean, dressed and happy. Wow do I admire parents.
Now she and her sister are sleeping and tonight of course every one of the three night lights I plug into the wall have blown bulbs. I could not believe it. Keanna looked up at me and said with a serious face, perhaps you need to add them to your list Pappa, a list that already has red jello, rice milk and now bulbs for the night lights.
Today has been as different from yesterday as day and yes night! Yesterday I could not stay awake, I was down and felt like just giving up. In comparison today I rose early, showered and came right to my desk and by noon had written two appraisals including discovering a way to create that dreaded new form 1004MC using data from the San Francisco board of MLS. I honestly believe it was a business miracle, I clicked on a different button and there was all the data I needed laid out before me, I had never seen that page before. And by the time I was ready to walk out to my car Jean had sent me a finished report she had done her part on and I did my part and then shipped it out as well, that is three off the list, the three people were most anxious about. Am I caught up? No way but am I in a better place? Oh yes by far. What a difference this day has made. And how thankful I am for good friends who simply will not just quit and go away, instead they stay engaged in my life and demonstrate caring by intervention.
There have been few times in my adult life when I had less grasp on what the near future will bring. Will I be able to get enough work to let me pay my bills? Will I be able to make the transition from relationship business to management company business with impersonal deadlines, reduced fees and constant demands? How will I be able to replace the steady stream of COD payments I've enjoyed for the last few months now that buyers and homeowners can no longer pay me directly?
As a good friend pointed out recently I am still here, still in my house after all these months of high uncertainty and of barely meeting due dates for bills. Oh I can think of a few right now, looming PG&E, payroll, medical bills, insurance, data. Oh a few thousand would be so nice and I keep hearing rumors that my big client is about to close a bunch of loans. After months of waiting it is time for sure.
But above all of this tonight I have my little kidos here under my roof, doing for them what their grammy loved to do and what she sure would be doing if she were still here. Its the least I can do and it has so much joy along with anxiety. This is living, not pushing paper, rushing from house to house but time with family and friends, doing important things.
It is quiet still, Kallie whimpers and coughs and then goes back to sleep. I have the AC on low in her room keeping it uniform in temperature, same with Keanna.
Thanks for reading along friend and family, thanks for your good thoughts and best wishes. I have them for you as well. Have a meaningful weekend and enjoy celebrating God's greatest gift to the family, mothers.
love
tim
Well here is is Friday evening, the house is quiet except for Kallie who is coughing tonight as she sleeps and I hear it over the monitor. Keanna read me a story tonight, that was really thrilling, how far we have come. She ate a huge plate of pasta, drank apple juice and played her video game, helped with Kallie and was her normal delightful self. Kallie has really turned full circle. Remember all that smiling and happy act! Well we have grown a bit. This evening I walked behind her as she crawled the length of the house several times, made it almost to the top of the stairs going to the upper level of the house and then came back down with help, would not sit in my arms in the rocker but wiggled and squirmed until she was back on the floor. She takes a couple steps here and there but walks well if holding onto anything. She drinks milk when she feels like it and throws it on the floor too, she is strong, will mimic anything you say or do, clap your hands, say boo, she is right back at you. She still smiles but only when she slows down enough between motions.
She blessed me with a pretty hefty diaper and between changing her, putting her into night clothes and attempting to keep her on the bed I was kicked, all four arms and legs were going in their own orbit and she alternated between laughing and crying as I took some time doing what her mother or father would do in seconds. Half a package of wipes later and with sweat running down my forehead she was clean, dressed and happy. Wow do I admire parents.
Now she and her sister are sleeping and tonight of course every one of the three night lights I plug into the wall have blown bulbs. I could not believe it. Keanna looked up at me and said with a serious face, perhaps you need to add them to your list Pappa, a list that already has red jello, rice milk and now bulbs for the night lights.
Today has been as different from yesterday as day and yes night! Yesterday I could not stay awake, I was down and felt like just giving up. In comparison today I rose early, showered and came right to my desk and by noon had written two appraisals including discovering a way to create that dreaded new form 1004MC using data from the San Francisco board of MLS. I honestly believe it was a business miracle, I clicked on a different button and there was all the data I needed laid out before me, I had never seen that page before. And by the time I was ready to walk out to my car Jean had sent me a finished report she had done her part on and I did my part and then shipped it out as well, that is three off the list, the three people were most anxious about. Am I caught up? No way but am I in a better place? Oh yes by far. What a difference this day has made. And how thankful I am for good friends who simply will not just quit and go away, instead they stay engaged in my life and demonstrate caring by intervention.
There have been few times in my adult life when I had less grasp on what the near future will bring. Will I be able to get enough work to let me pay my bills? Will I be able to make the transition from relationship business to management company business with impersonal deadlines, reduced fees and constant demands? How will I be able to replace the steady stream of COD payments I've enjoyed for the last few months now that buyers and homeowners can no longer pay me directly?
As a good friend pointed out recently I am still here, still in my house after all these months of high uncertainty and of barely meeting due dates for bills. Oh I can think of a few right now, looming PG&E, payroll, medical bills, insurance, data. Oh a few thousand would be so nice and I keep hearing rumors that my big client is about to close a bunch of loans. After months of waiting it is time for sure.
But above all of this tonight I have my little kidos here under my roof, doing for them what their grammy loved to do and what she sure would be doing if she were still here. Its the least I can do and it has so much joy along with anxiety. This is living, not pushing paper, rushing from house to house but time with family and friends, doing important things.
It is quiet still, Kallie whimpers and coughs and then goes back to sleep. I have the AC on low in her room keeping it uniform in temperature, same with Keanna.
Thanks for reading along friend and family, thanks for your good thoughts and best wishes. I have them for you as well. Have a meaningful weekend and enjoy celebrating God's greatest gift to the family, mothers.
love
tim
Thursday, May 7, 2009
gray day
Dear Friends and Family,
Ken and I walked this morning and that seems so long ago. It has been a long dismal day. This morning as I was making oatmeal I also started a loaf of bread. This time I restrained myself and did not open it once. The loaf is not the biggest but is near perfect and very dense. Great bread. I cut a slice and put avocado on it, then I walked out onto the deck and just felt the breeze and watched ducks as they meandered across the lake on a zig zag course.
I've been stuck to this chair most of the day and accomplished almost nothing it seems. Yes I've wrestled my way through conditions, taken some orders, two through a sort of management company called Appraisal Port. They only charge $10 for each order they pass along. The actual work came from Chevy Chase Bank, two foreclosures over in Solano County. They want me to see them tomorrow and then get the reports back to them tomorrow too, well that might not happen but I'll do my best. Plus write a couple reports in the morning too.
I've had a very hard time settling down to work today. As I think about the bigger picture I think that three weeks of constant Zyrtec may be dragging me down mentally. All I want to do is sleep all day.
I think I'm supposed to have the girls tomorrow night, that will be a nice change. They add smiles and laughter to the house, those special things that are totally missing. The dogs try to smile and beg constantly which is sort of humorous.
This afternoon I had to make a quick run to Union City to see a place who tenants were deaf so I had to go through a special interrupter but it all worked out fine. It was a tiny duplex in good condition. Now to write the report first thing in the morning and email it out to the management company for a whopping 1/2 normal fee. Actually I'm glad to have the work.
Its time to sign off and go to bed. Today I was so excited over the mail, it contained a check but then the excitement sort of lost its luster, the check was for $75, not $450 I expected. I know be grateful in little things, I'll tell Honda that when they call again for the payment! Should work out well.
love to all
Tim
Ken and I walked this morning and that seems so long ago. It has been a long dismal day. This morning as I was making oatmeal I also started a loaf of bread. This time I restrained myself and did not open it once. The loaf is not the biggest but is near perfect and very dense. Great bread. I cut a slice and put avocado on it, then I walked out onto the deck and just felt the breeze and watched ducks as they meandered across the lake on a zig zag course.
I've been stuck to this chair most of the day and accomplished almost nothing it seems. Yes I've wrestled my way through conditions, taken some orders, two through a sort of management company called Appraisal Port. They only charge $10 for each order they pass along. The actual work came from Chevy Chase Bank, two foreclosures over in Solano County. They want me to see them tomorrow and then get the reports back to them tomorrow too, well that might not happen but I'll do my best. Plus write a couple reports in the morning too.
I've had a very hard time settling down to work today. As I think about the bigger picture I think that three weeks of constant Zyrtec may be dragging me down mentally. All I want to do is sleep all day.
I think I'm supposed to have the girls tomorrow night, that will be a nice change. They add smiles and laughter to the house, those special things that are totally missing. The dogs try to smile and beg constantly which is sort of humorous.
This afternoon I had to make a quick run to Union City to see a place who tenants were deaf so I had to go through a special interrupter but it all worked out fine. It was a tiny duplex in good condition. Now to write the report first thing in the morning and email it out to the management company for a whopping 1/2 normal fee. Actually I'm glad to have the work.
Its time to sign off and go to bed. Today I was so excited over the mail, it contained a check but then the excitement sort of lost its luster, the check was for $75, not $450 I expected. I know be grateful in little things, I'll tell Honda that when they call again for the payment! Should work out well.
love to all
Tim
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
A taste of life
Dear Family and Friends,
There were several moments today that had joy in them, brought smiles to my face.
I started my day by a drive up to Sacramento to see a house that turned out to be located in a wonderful older area with tree lined streets and highly varied home styles. The owner was a fireman with lots of interesting things to share.
The next appointment was with Barb and Gerry Lammerding at the The Old Spaghetti Factory located downtown Sacramento. I was there to deliver Gerry's security pillow he had left after his visit a week ago. Well in the process we enjoyed a wonderful lunch with whole wheat pasta, a great salad and some very tasty ice cream. They both had a plan up their sleeves to help offset my stupidity when I lost the money at Safeway and insisted on sharing some green. I was really surprised and I could tell they had already decided and they are very hard to argue with. Thanks guys, thanks very much.
In the afternoon I drove back and worked in the office a bit before heading to Concord to try yet again at a property that I have been stood up a couple times. This time the lady was there was had me wait in the car until she could take a shower, that was a first. Then I inspected the house and I found her to be a little strange, still coping with a divorce and trying to figure out her future options. Then while I was already in Concord I went and shot comps for a house a saw a couple days ago, they decided to go ahead with the appraisal.
Today was grief group night, this group is just for those who have lost spouses. It was very worthwhile and helpful to me personally. This is a safe haven where its OK to still talk about how you feel in spite of time passing as everyone understands perfectly what you feel.
Now I'm home and heading for bed as 6:15 comes early in the morning for the walk. My new orders are almost non existent now. Just working up things I've already seen and hoping for something to break. I've been able to apply for one management company per day and so far I've been able to do it by sending emails with all the info they need. I hope to see orders someday as a result.
Suzie is facing her big surgery day next Tuesday and I know she will appreciate your prayers. I also found out today from Jason that Timothy is quite ill with something that requires his taking steroids. Jason hopes it won't get in the way of his future baseball career! I think Jason and Jo would appreciate prayers for Timothy as he copes with this nasty condition. I miss him.
love to all
tim
There were several moments today that had joy in them, brought smiles to my face.
I started my day by a drive up to Sacramento to see a house that turned out to be located in a wonderful older area with tree lined streets and highly varied home styles. The owner was a fireman with lots of interesting things to share.
The next appointment was with Barb and Gerry Lammerding at the The Old Spaghetti Factory located downtown Sacramento. I was there to deliver Gerry's security pillow he had left after his visit a week ago. Well in the process we enjoyed a wonderful lunch with whole wheat pasta, a great salad and some very tasty ice cream. They both had a plan up their sleeves to help offset my stupidity when I lost the money at Safeway and insisted on sharing some green. I was really surprised and I could tell they had already decided and they are very hard to argue with. Thanks guys, thanks very much.
In the afternoon I drove back and worked in the office a bit before heading to Concord to try yet again at a property that I have been stood up a couple times. This time the lady was there was had me wait in the car until she could take a shower, that was a first. Then I inspected the house and I found her to be a little strange, still coping with a divorce and trying to figure out her future options. Then while I was already in Concord I went and shot comps for a house a saw a couple days ago, they decided to go ahead with the appraisal.
Today was grief group night, this group is just for those who have lost spouses. It was very worthwhile and helpful to me personally. This is a safe haven where its OK to still talk about how you feel in spite of time passing as everyone understands perfectly what you feel.
Now I'm home and heading for bed as 6:15 comes early in the morning for the walk. My new orders are almost non existent now. Just working up things I've already seen and hoping for something to break. I've been able to apply for one management company per day and so far I've been able to do it by sending emails with all the info they need. I hope to see orders someday as a result.
Suzie is facing her big surgery day next Tuesday and I know she will appreciate your prayers. I also found out today from Jason that Timothy is quite ill with something that requires his taking steroids. Jason hopes it won't get in the way of his future baseball career! I think Jason and Jo would appreciate prayers for Timothy as he copes with this nasty condition. I miss him.
love to all
tim
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
A full day, fun in the park with Keanna
Good evening
Just a quick blog tonight. This has been an interesting day. Up early to hit the road by 7 for El Sobrante and then Richmond. After finishing up in Richmond in the rain I headed back to Longs for meds and then home to pick up Keanna at school. I love the way she comes running out full of shouts and joy and then we walk / run to the car to begin our afternoon. Today we headed to the golden arches and then to a surprise place, it was Safeway and I knew she had her eye on some sunglasses. We shopped a bit and she begged an onion ring from the deli (no charge). Then we drove back home so she could play her new game and I could do some work. After 4 we walked to the park where she made a new friend and played her heart out while my heart was in my throat as she swung from bar to bar on those little arms, the same arms that no so long ago were in a cast and with pins. Oh boy the heart races. Then we walked back home where she began to create pictures for her mom's, mothers day is coming you know. She also sang a May day song beautifully, on key and with clear diction.
Nikki came with Kallie a bit later and we had fun talking. Then she headed home and I went back to town to pick up even more meds, that makes $140 today for my co pay. Yikes.
Now its time to go to bed. Ken and I walk at 6:30 and then I leave for Sac at 8:15 for an appointment. I hope to hook up with Barb and Gerry but now its too late to call and confirm. Hope they read this. I'll call when I'm on the road in the morning too.
Orders are dropping off now as all the normal people cannot order directly any more. Things look pretty bleak. One management company did contact me and I responded on line with the things they were asking for this afternoon. That was a good sign.
Good night all
love
tim
Just a quick blog tonight. This has been an interesting day. Up early to hit the road by 7 for El Sobrante and then Richmond. After finishing up in Richmond in the rain I headed back to Longs for meds and then home to pick up Keanna at school. I love the way she comes running out full of shouts and joy and then we walk / run to the car to begin our afternoon. Today we headed to the golden arches and then to a surprise place, it was Safeway and I knew she had her eye on some sunglasses. We shopped a bit and she begged an onion ring from the deli (no charge). Then we drove back home so she could play her new game and I could do some work. After 4 we walked to the park where she made a new friend and played her heart out while my heart was in my throat as she swung from bar to bar on those little arms, the same arms that no so long ago were in a cast and with pins. Oh boy the heart races. Then we walked back home where she began to create pictures for her mom's, mothers day is coming you know. She also sang a May day song beautifully, on key and with clear diction.
Nikki came with Kallie a bit later and we had fun talking. Then she headed home and I went back to town to pick up even more meds, that makes $140 today for my co pay. Yikes.
Now its time to go to bed. Ken and I walk at 6:30 and then I leave for Sac at 8:15 for an appointment. I hope to hook up with Barb and Gerry but now its too late to call and confirm. Hope they read this. I'll call when I'm on the road in the morning too.
Orders are dropping off now as all the normal people cannot order directly any more. Things look pretty bleak. One management company did contact me and I responded on line with the things they were asking for this afternoon. That was a good sign.
Good night all
love
tim
Monday, May 4, 2009
mellow day
Dear Family and Friends,
Back from a late afternoon appraisal that came up at the last minute in Dublin. Ate while I was there and now I'm back home.
Worked in, my Morgan Hill appointment was for next Monday, not today. I used the time well to produce a lot. Took a break this afternoon for banana bread and coffee over at Ray and Lois's house. I could not stay awake so finally resorted to coffee which seemed to do the trick.
No money today but no bills either so it was a wash sort of. One management company called to ask me to find another sponsor and then they would consider letting me be on their approved list. They pay pretty well and look like a good company so lets hope that works out. Did get an order from a management company, paying $250 for an appraisal in Union city but they want it back by Wednesday and a property management company has to arrange entry. No way by Wednesday morning, no way.
Tomorrow morning I have to be in El Sobrante by 8:30 and then on to Richmond, then back to pick up Keanna at school at 2 pm.
When I drive I have lots of time to think and I often remember some point in our joined lives that brings smiles or tears. We struggled through so much, graduate school in Michigan, hanging sheetrock to make extra money with snow blowing through the buildings we were working in. At times they had us sheetrock before they put in the windows, it was wild and then when it was Friday only those people who got to the bank first with their checks could cash them, they often bounced for days. Interesting times.
Nan was always a team player, she would do her part and then help with my part. She was a lovely girl when we met, a beautiful woman when we married, an elegant woman as we aged and a spirited warrior when she was struck down with GIST. I know of no one else that even comes close to her in spirit, spunk, class, humor, loyalty and just being a woman. She loved to shop, to travel, to learn new things, to be in charge, to make plans and keep them, to watch out for her kids and grandkids. I was really blessed and made whole by being with her.
For some of you who seldom stop to really think about what you have in your significant other you should take a minute and allow yourself to think of losing her, him. Of course there is no way you can really feel it but still you can think seriously about what you have at your disposal. If you don't really love in tangible ways the one you are with shame on you. Knock off the games, the getting even or keeping score. Grab what God has blessed you with and care!
love
tim
Back from a late afternoon appraisal that came up at the last minute in Dublin. Ate while I was there and now I'm back home.
Worked in, my Morgan Hill appointment was for next Monday, not today. I used the time well to produce a lot. Took a break this afternoon for banana bread and coffee over at Ray and Lois's house. I could not stay awake so finally resorted to coffee which seemed to do the trick.
No money today but no bills either so it was a wash sort of. One management company called to ask me to find another sponsor and then they would consider letting me be on their approved list. They pay pretty well and look like a good company so lets hope that works out. Did get an order from a management company, paying $250 for an appraisal in Union city but they want it back by Wednesday and a property management company has to arrange entry. No way by Wednesday morning, no way.
Tomorrow morning I have to be in El Sobrante by 8:30 and then on to Richmond, then back to pick up Keanna at school at 2 pm.
When I drive I have lots of time to think and I often remember some point in our joined lives that brings smiles or tears. We struggled through so much, graduate school in Michigan, hanging sheetrock to make extra money with snow blowing through the buildings we were working in. At times they had us sheetrock before they put in the windows, it was wild and then when it was Friday only those people who got to the bank first with their checks could cash them, they often bounced for days. Interesting times.
Nan was always a team player, she would do her part and then help with my part. She was a lovely girl when we met, a beautiful woman when we married, an elegant woman as we aged and a spirited warrior when she was struck down with GIST. I know of no one else that even comes close to her in spirit, spunk, class, humor, loyalty and just being a woman. She loved to shop, to travel, to learn new things, to be in charge, to make plans and keep them, to watch out for her kids and grandkids. I was really blessed and made whole by being with her.
For some of you who seldom stop to really think about what you have in your significant other you should take a minute and allow yourself to think of losing her, him. Of course there is no way you can really feel it but still you can think seriously about what you have at your disposal. If you don't really love in tangible ways the one you are with shame on you. Knock off the games, the getting even or keeping score. Grab what God has blessed you with and care!
love
tim
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