Back in the saddle again.

Hi Everyone,
Another day, no dollars, happens! This morning I woke at 5 with such pain in my back but turned over on my side and dozed until the alarm sounded at 6:10. I jumped up, dressed and went out side for the walk. Ken could not go today so I just headed out solo. It was a perfectly cool morning and I met many friendly people as I did the route. Then back to a shower and oatmeal with a lot of fiber added and some bran.
In a few minutes I was deep into my work at the desk. Then I sorted another box of papers and removed them from the office clearing up some floor space, finally I unearthed a chair so that when someone comes to see me in the office they actually have a place to sit. It was a day of calls from bill collectors, mostly kind and one person who wants to sell my time share in Palm Desert which of course I want to sell also. It would rid me of a $190 payment per month and perhaps bring some much needed cash in as well. We will see what he comes up with. This one does not require upfront money, money I will not part with to become a part of someones scheme.
There were many business related calls and one new order. When it was time for lunch since I was alone, Marilyn was hitting CostCo and Target in Tracy, I created a bed of brown rice, overlaid it with steamed veges and placed some wonderful little soy creations that Sylvia had left, they come in a small can and taste great. The lunch was perfect. I kept the drinking of fluids all day and today I think I maxed out. This evening when a planned appraisal fell through Marilyn suggested we eat out her treat, who can resist that, free food! Thanks Marilyn. She discovered we had a coupon for UNO's so we went and enjoyed a great meal this evening.
On a personal note I've not felt this good physically in a very long time. I'd be hard pressed to explain why but I've been rested, had energy and did not feel stuffed with too much food of the wrong kind.
Its only fair to rejoice when things go well as I so often level with you, faithful reader, when things are not so great. I had to admit there is not a hour that goes by in a given day when I don't have a few pangs, memories of a happy moment with Nan, however I place those thoughts in context and continue to live in spite of the loss we experienced. Do you have any idea of how you would cope if you lost someone vital to you? Frankly no matter what you answer I would just gently say, until it happens you really can't imagine at all and just pray that it does not happen. Its like being in a well lite room and having someone turn the lights out and then you must function in the dark maze that follows.
My points of light are the children and their children, family and friends. You are who I live for. May God grant me meaning in life, you too. How I long to be able to go on a mission trip or to use my skills of communication in some helpful manner or my ability to share, encourage, motivate.
Love to all,

Tim

Hot summer sunday

Good evening all,
We are just back from returning the motorhome to its storage space behind a secured gate and then a salad stop at McDonalds. While earlier in the day I had considered firing up the grill and doing some garden burgers but as the warmth of the afternoon filtered in we all changed our mind and decided on McDonalds where I could have a very nice salad and some ice tea. So we took some social time with Lois and Ray and enjoyed the conversation. Let me tell you with Marilyn, Lois and Ray the conversation is never never dull. Everyone has an opinion and none are shy about expressing themselves. Of course I just observe since I have few opinions that need expressing!
I've thought back several times today to the postlude that Bernice and Yvonne played yesterday after church. It was so good that it sort of sticks with a person.
This morning as Ken and I started our walk he asked if I would help him with something but he then proceeded to defer telling me what it was he needed help with. When we got back he pointed to a huge box and we rolled it to his deck where we proceeded to unpack and then build a stainless steel BBQ. Talk about lots of little parts, nuts, washers, bolts but after a couple hours it was all together and gives every indication that it will in fact work. It was fun working with Ken who is so methodical about everything and it pays off in perfection. LeAnn gave me two baskets of strawberries, oh they are good.
I've napped a couple times today and for lunch I prepared one of those bags of veges that you put in the microwave oven and it steams right in the package. Then I warmed up pinto beans and made brown rice. What a feast.
Now I'm back, sitting in the work chair and in a minute I'll call Art who called earlier just as we were ordering at McDonalds. We are fortunate in that the outside air is cooling rapidly this evening, nice for a change. The reports of the terrible fires are alarming. While I'm very glad I am not having to leave my home for fear of a fire I know many thousands are out of their homes tonight not knowing if there will be a home to come back to or not.
This afternoon is a rare moment of house cleaning I started to go through a box of papers which has been on the floor of my office for a long time. As I started to wade through I came across many papers given by the home health companies that treated Nan and then I came across items from her working area. It was pleasing to see her beautiful handwriting, her notes, her organization and to remember once again in a slightly different way what a talented lady she was. While from time to time I contemplate the fleeting thoughts of discovering a new friend at this point nothing real has come my way. I'm not rushing to fill a void or building walls to prevent something someday to happen. I think this is an area that is fairly easy to allow God to guide.
I'm praying for income, new orders, the drive to pursue new business and the wisdom to make solid decisions. As always I welcome your prayers.
Sending love from here to you,

Tim

That lady can preach....

Dear Ones,
This has been a different kind of day from the depressing week it follows. Ken and I did our 3 miles this morning but the temp was 70 instead of the normal 60 and we felt it. Later in the morning I drove to Tracy to attend the worship service there. Our pastor Jessica delivered a really powerful sermon and has such an excellent communication style that it went quickly and nearly everything presented was fresh and new. I especially enjoyed hearing music from a couple of my favorite people. Bernice White at the organ and Yvonne Miller at the piano, what a team, the music just waltzed us right out of the church with a beautiful postlude.
Once I was clear of the friends at church I reentered my very hot black beetle and headed for Sacramento to pick up Marilyn. When I arrived on the minute I found Marilyn with three sisters and two close friends posing for photos and saying last minute good byes. It seems she had a great time on her brief visit.
It was very warm today but the bug did great keeping the air cool and comfortable. We arrived home to a cool house, eager doggies and comfortable recliners. Just now we are back from a quick visit with Ray and Lois on their back deck with torches blazing.
Now its time to get some sleep. Tomorrow will be a real work day and it is my goal to be very productive both in appraisal production but also in beginning to tidy up the office.
Please continue to pray for Barbie, Suzie, Irene and those who are struggling to hold onto their homes. This is not an easy time for many right now and the feeling that things are slipping out of control is tough to cope with I hear.
So good night to friend, family member and any other person who might have happened across the blog.
love

tim

The finish line

Good evening
After an interesting week of affronts to my sanity finally tonight its over. For those of you not located in California I want to tell you, it is warm here. Even Jason and Jo who live near the ocean and have an average summer temperature of about 65 to 70 are having it in the 80s and above. Not fun to try to sleep when it is so warm.
This morning with Ken safely tucked into an early morning meeting I skipped walking and went right to work. I was able to find a couple more ways to save a few bucks each month and worked on an appraisal for the property I saw yesterday. At 11 I left for an appointment in San Lorenzo. It seemed warm in the car in spite of the faithful work of the AC and when I stepped out of the car at the subject property it was into a warm muggy atmosphere. The home I was there to inspect was beautiful in every way with a new kitchen, huge family room, perfect and expansive patio areas of painted concrete and dozens of photos on the walls of their family. I enjoyed myself very much. But as I walked to the car the blood sugar levels were obviously very low and I could hardly function. I asked the GPS for the nearest Taco Bell and followed its instructions. All was well until I opened the burrito to find it was beef, not bean. So I backtracked a few blocks and requested a redo. The replacement was much better and after a few bites my distress receded. Then I drove back to shoot the comparables and headed home.
However the quick trip home I envisioned was not to be. Traffic came to a halt in Castro Valley which is a long ways from Livermore where I normally leave the freeway. So after fighting traffic for awhile I left the freeway and opted for back roads. Sure they take forever but at least you are moving. Stopping in Livermore for fuel with over 500 miles driven I filled at $2.85 a gallon.
On the way home Nikki called and I learned that Steve's mom is in town for a wedding and is visiting them. How wonderful that the kidos get to see their grandma even if just for a short time.
This evening when I got home I discovered a check in the mail. Sure it was not a large one but I had to stop myself from scoffing and remind myself to be grateful.
My hearts desire it that each and every one of you will find time to worship, fellowship and touch another person this weekend. Life, while it is often almost unbearable at times, remains a privilege.
In the spirit of caring for one another this evening I once again ask for prayers for our dear friend Irene, her ongoing battle with GIST is not an easy one and I know she enjoys being remembered to our Healer and Friend. Also this evening Barbara continues to battle some health issues and we pray that her infection will be curbed and her heart calmed.
When talking to Barbara today she mentioned an interesting point. We are all aware of the horrible kidnapping that is just now being solved with the discovery of the young lady who was held against her will in Antioch. Over the years I've worked on that street and in that neighborhood several times. Samantha, Barb and Gerry's grand daughter, was used in the TV show that was broadcast at the time of the kidnapping. It was a reenactment of the kidnapping which took place in Tahoe and Samantha looked a lot like the girl who had been taken. Now after all these years the case is finally solved.
Take good care this weekend.

love to all

Tim

I'm keeping at it.......

Dear Family and Friends,
Here it is Thursday evening already and the week has been a challenging one. Another day without any checks in the mail, that is getting harder to take but I did pick up a check for the appraisal of a condo in Concord when I was there this morning. Once I got back from the trip to Concord I waded into appraisal writing for the afternoon. I was able to complete a challenging one for a large property in Livermore and then started on an FHA one I had already seen but did not have a case number for. Today they found the case number so I took the time this afternoon to write it and emailed it out.
At that point I made a decision, to attend the ACN meeting held in Concord this evening. The meeting started about 7:30 and the large hall at a large hotel was filled. Several different people related their experiences since discovering ACN and along with videos that explained different aspects of how the business works a clear picture was presented. To generate income which I need desperately will take an investment of time in building a new business. With my own business failing around me with almost no orders coming in at all it is time to look around. Dr. Jim has been very helpful in explaining and giving support and shared a copy of Success for Home Business magazine in which ACN is featured.
Today a letter arrived that I have been dreading for years. It was from my mortgage company and carried the news that my loan was being reset in November. What I don't understand is this, the rate went down from 4.85 to 3.65 and yet they show the monthly payment going UP $400. That is a hard nut to crack and only time will tell if I can manage it or not. I'm certainly open to legitimate alternative solutions. One other point of disappointment also happened today. When I called the motorhome loan company to apply for the 3 month payment deferral I was told that I need to make another payment first. Now mind you I've already made 2 payments this month as I was told that if I did that I could apply for the deferral but today it was a new story. Needless to say I was disappointed about that news and the nice guy on the phone agreed to send over the paperwork requesting the deferral anyway.
I missed seeing my kidos today.
I mentioned that I picked up a check today and when I deposited it enough automatic payments had come in that there was only a few dollars left in the account. Sort of hard to get ahead these days. I'm sure the Lord is fully aware of my situation and for many other people who are facing challenging times. All I can say is the word sobering comes to mind.
It has been cooler today and the big AC hardly had to come on at all which is a money blessing, the dogs have food to eat and I've had food to eat. At our worst in this wonderful country we are so blessed and I need to remember that. I guess if I had a prayer request it would be that I could find a management company that would actually order appraisals, not just make promises and never follow through. Could you pray about that? I would appreciate it very much.
So I'm sending love to all and a big thanks for your friendship over the years.

love

tim

Keanna comes to call

Dear Family and Friends,

Well here I am enjoying the cooling breezes from the little window AC which keeps my office a friendly place to be. I'm just back from a quick trip with Lois for a burrito and then a side trip to purchase dog food for some very hungry dogs. The evening was perfect, cool, vintage California summer evening.

This afternoon was my day to pick up Keanna from school. When I did she was careful to NOT request a visit to McDonalds. Seems her parents read the blog only to learn that my spending money was gone and they didn't want her to put me in a hard spot. I had been thinking about it all day and had a plan so was still able to get her snack after all but how nice of them to think of me and try to avoid a disappointing experience. I was deeply touched. Yes it is tight right now but once again today another of those experiences took place that bodes well for the future.

Citi bank called today to let me know my one year agreement to pay them $409 on the 20th of each month had expired. They wanted to raise the amount to $600 a month but knowing my present situation I nixed that plan. Then they suggested a 1 year plan of no interest and a monthly payment of $360, a $49 reduction over last years plan. That sounded good to me so we locked it up. I'm paying no interest, the entire amount goes to principle and the huge amount has come down a lot this year due to the monthly plan.

Once again the mail lady disappointed me, no checks. Several outstanding accounts should be paying up and I'm getting nervous.

I received an order today with the promise of an AMEX credit card number to cover the costs. A few minutes later a follow up email said to hold off until next week. Bummer, I could have used that money for sure.

In the morning I will see a place in concord at 9 am and then pick up the check which I hope will start the ball rolling on income again. Once again the house payment is looming! When I go to the pet store I watch the gerbils running in their wheel, I know what that is like for humans. Of course so do you and millions of other people.

I'm going to share a few photos tonight that I've taken recently. The one of Keanna is from the park this afternoon, others are from the kids back yard otherwise known as lush acres thanks to Steve's relentless striving on it.

Love to all,

Tim

Life drags on

Dear Family and Friends,
OK so where is the pizazz that life is supposed to possess? Why do the days run into the next with only glimmers of life and hope? Tomorrow will be a good day I know. Keanna is coming at 12:45 for the afternoon and that lights up the place big time.
This morning I walked, then worked for awhile and then Marilyn made her appearance and we left for Sacramento to meet her sister. That took place about 11:50 and then I had lunch with good friends Barb and Gerry. Considering all the health challenges they have faced recently they were in remarkable spirits. These people are a living example of hope and courage combined with a healthy dose of faith. We had lunch, garden burger, at Leatherbys which is mainly known for its wonderful ice cream. I drove home and found myself nearly out of gas in Stockton with NO room on any credit cards and $5 in my wallet. But $5 got me home just fine and I've been working here at home since. Unfortunately there were no checks in the mail today which was more than mildly disappointing.
This evening I watched a couple shows that Nan loved, NCIS with Mark Harmon. They are nicely produced and have great story lines. The good old DVR faithfully records the show every time it pops up in reruns so I have a few to watch minus commercials when ever I want to take the time.
Now its bed time, Ken has called to remind me of walking tomorrow and so the dogs are circling indicating they think its time to retire for the evening. Hopefully money will come in the mail tomorrow so I can purchase some food for them. Its so strange to live like this but God is always near.
This evening I can report that Sylvia's mom is doing some better in her battle with health issues and that their planned trip to visit family in Canada is still on track.
Can I just say the challenge of facing life alone is real, daunting, distasteful and relentless. While I cannot remember everything about every day with Nan I still retain so much that is good. We faced hell together over the last few years and yet we never gave up, never gave in and never turned on each other. Of all our years the last ones were the closest and taught lessons of love and sharing that are forever. This evening I miss my Nan. Yet due to the love that is generously given by the kids, family and friends life is possible.

Love

tim

Slow day

Dear Family and Friends,
As I write this evening I do so with somewhat of a heavy heart, more of a concerned one. I've been scanning the days news and very little of it is good in my opinion. Today I had to use some dollars from money I had set aside years ago for retirement. I never expected to be touching it until I was long retired. It was a sobering decision but one that had to be made. Several lenders owe me money but as usual they take their time to pass it along to me. I did receive two orders today for which I am grateful. I've called both for appointments and actually went and did one this evening, its a driveby for an estate. I'm deeply grateful to local people who refer homeowners to me weekly for needed personal appraisals. Still nothing from the many management companies that I've approved with. One company LSI send out an information sheet today explaining their assignment policy. It was mind blowing. They will not assign an appraisal for a property that is more than 10 miles from my office address. For me that means I could possibly get work in Brentwood, Discovery Bay and perhaps Oakley. There has never been enough work to keep any of the local appraisers busy so we all travel to places we know well but are up to an hour away. I was shocked by this guideline so I expect nothing from LSI ever. How things have changed over the last years from a robust business with many opportunities to one where the phone almost never rings, the fax has not delivered anything in over a week and emails are all junk, no orders. It is shocking to discover how easily one transitions from being very busy to nearly closed, yet seem to keep busy.
Ray and Lois came over this evening for a bit and tomorrow I'll drive Marilyn to Sacramento to meet up with her sister from Oroville where she will visit for a few days.
How I enjoy hearing from friends and clients with their funny emails. Today has been no exception and several were just great, one from Sylvia tonight was really funny. I'll try to share it here if I can.
"This Ad Was Posted to Craig's List Personals:To the Guy Who Tried to Mug Me in Downtown Savannah night before last. Date: 05-27-09, 1:43 AM EST.
I was the guy wearing the black Burberry jacket that you demanded that I hand over, shortly after you pulled the knife on my girlfriend, threatening our lives and me.You also asked for my girlfriend's purse and earrings.I can only hope that you somehow come across this rather important message.
First, I'd like to apologize for your embarrassment when I drew my pistol after you took my Jacket. The evening was not that cold, and I was wearing the jacket for a reason.My girlfriend had just bought me that Kimber Model 1911 .45 A CP pistol for my birthday, and we had picked up a shoulder holster for it that very evening.Obviously you agree that it is a very Intimidating weapon when pointed at your head wasn't it?I know it probably wasn't fun walking back to wherever you'd come from bare footed since I made you leave your shoes, cell phone, and wallet with me. [That prevented you from calling or running to your buddies to come help mug us again].After I called your mother, or "Momma" as you had her listed in your cell, I explained the entire episode of what you'd done. Then I Went and filled up my gas tank as well as four other people's in the gas station on your credit card. The guy with the big motor home took 150 gallons and was extremely grateful!I gave your shoes to a homeless guy outside Vinnie Van Go Go’s, along with all the cash in your wallet. [That made his day!]I then threw your wallet into the big pink "pimp mobile" that was parked at the curb .. after I broke the windshield and side window and keyed the entire driver's side of the car.Later, I called a bunch of phone sex numbers from your cell phone.Ma Bell just now shut down the line, although I only used the phone for a little over a day now, so what's going on with that?Earlier, I managed to get in two threatening phone calls to the DA's office and one to the FBI, while mentioning President Obama as my possible target. The FBI guy seemed really intense and we had a nice long chat (I guess while he traced your number etc.).In a way, perhaps I should apologize for not killing you ... but I feel this type of retribution is a far more appropriate punishment for your threatened crime. I wish you well as you try to sort through some of these rather immediate pressing issues, and can only hope that you have the opportunity to reflect upon, and perhaps reconsider the career path you've chosen to pursue in life.
Remember, next time you might not be so lucky.Have a good day!Thoughtfully yours,AlexP.S. Remember this motto. "An armed society makes for a more civil society!" "The future ain't what it used to be" Yogi Berra

Very interesting little posting!

Sending love to all,

tim

Sunday evening, gearing up for the new week

Dear Family and Friends,
What a nice surprise! Nikki was on the phone and was on her way to Concord to do some returns. She had decided that a brief stop at the Old Spaghetti Factory was in order, would I like to join them? It sounded like fun so I drove over. I've got to share a funny experience that happened. Kallie has developed quite a pitching arm already at 13 months. We were nearing the end of the meal and I guess Kallie thought so too as a spoon came flying and hit the wall beside me, Kallie had thrown it, she has some arm on her, I was amazed. Glad it came my way and not at another table of people. Keanna was dressed in red and was full of life, cleaned her plate and was ready for more food when it was gone. The girls are so happy to have their mom back, dad has been wonderful but there is no substitute for moms either.
This morning after the walk I rested, made some oatmeal pancakes that Ray had given me for my birthday and then waded into the big project of changing a portion of the salt water in the reef tank. What is involved is unplugging all the pumps and heaters, lifting off the top of the tank, syphoning out water 5 gallons at a time into a big orange bucket and then walking to the curb with the 40 lbs of water and dumping it. This is repeated 5 times. While the tank is torn up I took all the equipment I could remove and cleaned it in the sink and of course since the sprayer at the sink was plugged up I cleaned that as well. Then I reinstalled all the equipment and started to pour the salt water I purchased in Dublin last evening 5 gallons at a time. When the tank was full I restarted the pumps, the filter and was delighted that it all worked. Now the tank is clear and fresh, mission accomplished. I can feel the pull of muscles that are not used to be stretched but it feels good to be caring for something that meant so much to Nan and now means a lot to me too.
I also signed up for an online guide for access to 240 management companies for appraisal orders. It cost $49 but it shows how to access each one and gives reviews on what appraisers who are working for each company thinks of them. Not to just settle down and begin to apply one company at a time until I get enough companies ordering to keep me and Steve busy.
Marilyn has returned from her wild time with her friend Diane who lives in the wild city of Sacramento. Their visits to enjoy the culture of the various Indian casinos seems to have worked out well for them and they came away with much wapam (money)! Of course on Tuesday Marilyn continues her tour of the west with a visit to her sister who lives in Orville.
I am researching the lemonade diet on the Internet and so far I've only heard positive things from many different people who have actually done it. The average person seems to lose about 7 or 8 pounds but after day three begins to feel much more alive as trash continues to be flushed out. I know Art did it once with really good results. Just considering. Need to do something to jump start the new me.!!
Please pray for Sylvia and her mom tonight. Her mom is battling some serious health issues and needs God's healing right now.

love

Tim

A day of rest

Dear Family, Friends and Casual Readers,

8:45 for those of you who like to go to bed early. Our weather has been very warm today but house and car cooling systems keep it comfortable.

Nikki had Keanna all dressed and ready to go this morning when I arrived and we made an on time arrival at Sabbath School in Tracy. The leaders / teachers do such a great job for children her age and slightly older. Wes, Rod, Pat and Sylvia run a excellent program and I really think it helps the kids get the message from the bible stories. With Sylvia teaching Keanna's group that really helps Keanna overcome her shyness. When I stop to think about it Keanna hardly knows any of the kids, its a strange world for her. She does know Joanna and today both Joanna and Sydney were there which helped. After Sabbath School was over she stayed and played for awhile and then we met Nikki and Kallie for lunch at the Olive Garden. Today they informed us that they are offering the unending pasta bowl again. That's nice as you can select the type of pasta and the type of sauce you desire. So I had whole wheat linguine with 5 cheese sauce. It was a great meal and a total delight to observe Kallie as she make eye contact with a table of little grandmothers nearby, attempted to eat her food actually keeping some on the table while there was quite a bit on the floor. It was great to see they all again.

I've taken it easy this afternoon and this evening drove to an aquarium store in Dublin which sells salt water. My reef tank needs a water exchange so now I have 25 gallons to use to freshen the tank and give the fish a new lease on life. Its not easy work as the process involves my pumping out 5 gallons at a time into an orange bucket, taking it to the curb and dumping it, then repeating the process until I have 25 gallons removed. Then I introduce new salt water into the sump which is below the tank 5 gallons at a time. Each 5 gallon container weighs about 40 lbs so I get a nice workout.

It feels sort of strange to actually be home this weekend. We have had such good times on the trips we have taken, first to Weed to spend time with the family there and then last weekend to MBA to spend time with Jason, Jo and Timothy. The motorhome allows for a quick trip with a minimum of effort as most things are already on board. We just load the frig, take a few personal items and off we go. It appears that now that we have the tires up to the right psi, thanks to neighbor Ken and his faithful compressor, that we are getting about 11 mpg. That is not bad considering we are taking the motel room complete with kitchen and bathroom along for the ride.

I've had the chance to talk with Jason, Nikki and Jerry today, family is so important and fills an important gap in my life.

Our friend Marilyn Bitzer who lives in a Del Webb retirement community near Barb and Gerry emailed me this morning and attached an email she had received years ago from Nan. It was pure joy to read Nan's words as she wrote a newsy note about her future plans, trips, medical visits to City of Hope. It was a real blast from the past and I loved it. Nice to make contact and be reminded of precious times.

So now I wish each of you a good evening,

love

tim

ps The photo was captured as Marilyn was helping Keanna with a game on the little laptop. Marilyn will be so pleased that I have shared this with all of you. She loves to have her photo taken and shared!

I like my family

My life is blessed with: Erin Nicole Shipley, an energetic mother of two, professional shopper and ebay seller, auditor for the department of energy, thoughtful daughter who picks the best cards, producer of beautiful children, loving and spirited wife to Steve, constant joy to her father.

Timothy Jason Mustard, dedicated father of one, would be golfer, talented public speaker and actor, teacher of English to willing and unwilling students, doting and attentive father, loving and attentive husband to Jo, always watching out for his father.

Steve Shipley, son in law extraordinaire, willing father of two, dirt bike rider, wake board rider, skate board rider, business creating, energetic landscape artist, loving and supportive husband, always willing to help me.

Jovina Mustard, graceful daughter in law, dedicated mother of one, searcher for perfection, gracious, artistic, loyal, totally immersed mother and always welcoming to me.

Keanna, spirited, creative, artistic, determined, photogenic, tender hearted, unique, lovely

Timothy, joyful, active, artistic, gentle, quick learning, book loving, heart warming, totally cute

Kallie, smiling, happy, active, fearless, adaptive, loving, determined, a leg grabber, charmer, a cutie

My heart is pretty full with these blessings, these wonderful and exciting people.

love to all

Tim

Marilyn leaves for better offer........

Dear Friends and Family,
Thats right, she just drove right down the road and left, off to see her friend Diane and hit the casinos, shocking isn't it. When I last heard she was up $60 so all is not lost.
I walked alone this morning and somehow by doing so it seems the distance is greater. Ken took the day off. After breakfast and a shower I left to visit a local ranch. It was one of those perfect places, huge main house with pool and great features, guest home which is larger than most homes, huge shop with many vintage chevy's being restored, barns, baby chickens, horses and 10 acres of space to spread out on. Now if I can locate comps for that one.
Then it was on to the next place. It poses a typical problem facing appraisers right now. Property has been updated with beautiful granite, hardwood cabinets, new interior paint, oversized site. Problem is comps stop at $180K and this one is selling for $215K with multiple offers. What is its real value? I'll solve that in the morning.
Since I was out I went to Applebees for lunch and one grilled cheese sandwich later I was again on the road. This time to the new Kaiser Hospital to visit a friend from the grief group who is battling for his life on about three levels. He is in for a couple days to get a lung infection controlled. What a pleasant person he is and he seemed thrilled to have a visitor. It was after I had seen the second house today that I discovered why the shorts I was wearing were so comfortable, they had a 3 inch seam rip down the side, yikes that was a special discovery.
This evening I picked up the girls, delivered Kallie to her daddy and then took Keanna to gymnastics and then to dinner. It was a nice evening. When she got in the car she was trying out a new expression she had picked up from school, none of your beeswax. She asked what it meant and said it over and over. When her daddy heard it he let her know it was not a great saying to throw around and but she did not give it up easily. Oh the joys of associating with all those ordinary kids at school, picking up all these new interesting phrases. Wonder what Keanna is sharing with other kids? Its just part of growing up.
Today was kind in that the mail lady had a check for me. Good thing since a couple big ones hit soon.
So tonight I'm sending you my best positive thoughts. What is your purpose for living? Have you considered it lately? Is it worth thinking about or shall we just drift along with the tide?

Love

Tim

Interesting day

Dear Family and Friends,
I'm just in from a good grief group tonight. Often insights develop as the group shares thoughts and tonight was productive. The concept of considering the time we had with our spouse as a chapter or segment in our lives instead of just dwelling on our life is over. No it was a segment, for me a 37 year segment from the time we first met at summer camp, Pinecrest, near Lake Tahoe until she fell sleep in Jesus in our family room. I actually did have a life, a very young life before our combined chapter was written and lived and now I am experiencing a new chapter. Our leader asked us, what is our purpose for living now? Rather hard to answer for most of us but well worth considering.
Today I was able to experience some glimpses of real life, I picked up Keanna at 12:45, we then went to Aladinos where she had chicken nuggets and curly fries with lemonade, played some arcade games and then we drove home. At the house Marilyn kindly took her under her wing and introduced her to a a video game for kids that both challenged her and entertained her as well. She was reluctant to go home when it was time. Marilyn was great with her not allowing her the indulgence of having a little fit when the game did not go her way but keeping her focused on positive behavior. On the way home we picked up Kallie who was sleeping and then I presented them all to Steve for the evening.
When I got home Marilyn had been busy creating a stir fry type meal filled with fresh vegetables over a bed of rice. It was wonderful and we ate and enjoyed. Then I headed off to grief group for the evening.
This morning after our walk I quickly prepared to drive to Livermore where I inspected a large beautiful home located on 101 acres. It has a solar system that on most days has the meter running backwards as the owner is selling energy back to PG&E. Before their monthly bill was $1,800 for their large home. After inspecting the home and collecting a sizable fee I took a call from Borden Junction, the motorhome repair place. They had good news, the motorhome was repaired and they had replaced a burned out ignition switch, the second one in the brief history of the motorhome with its 25,000 miles. So as I drove home I stopped to pay in cash the repair bill and then deposited the rest in the bank creating an amazing positive balance once again. To make matters even more pleasant a check came in the mail today for work I recently completed for Chevy Chase Bank.
Now its bed time once again. Tomorrow Marilyn heads to Sac to spend quality time with her friend Diane and I'll rediscover living alone again. What a blessing her visit has been, not only just to have someone fun to talk to but also there are so many things she has helped make happen already. We've also had two great trips, one to Weed to visit Jerry, Donna and family and then last weekend to see Timothy and family at MBA. How nice it is to be driving down the road and have someone bring a bottle of water or some trail mix, little things like that are really special and appreciated.
I've had some nice orders this week. This afternoon one came in that needs to be done in 48 hours but carries a fee of $475. It is for a local house and will be relatively simple to inspect and prepare. It is a gift from God.
So tonight I'm sending love to all,
life may be challenging most of the time but it is worth living all the time.

Love

tim

Keanna workout

Dear Family and Friends,

We are finally back and hosting cheese cake for Ray and Lois.

Ken and I trudged around the lake this morning and then I came home to do a few chores. Like picking a little bucket of tomatoes, do poop patrol and then shower and settle in to work. During the day I wrote two appraisals and then this evening I picked up the girls, delivered Kallie to her dad and Keanna to a 1st grade picnic where she ate and played. As the picnic progressed the sprinklers on the ball field came on and the kids had a blast playing in the sprinklers. Finally we dragged Keanna away and she took a bath, I dried her clothes in the dryer and she put on her PJs, then I delivered her home to Steve. it was so fun to see her playing full tilt with her friends.

Two orders came in today and I have both scheduled for the next two days. Tomorrow morning is COD which always makes my day. Of course it is a 2 million dollar property with 101 acres in Livermore so I'll earn my money. Keanna comes to visit tomorrow afternoon at 12:45 and will spend the afternoon here.

I keep waiting for the phone call re: the motorhome but so far it has not happened. I was told when I made contact on Monday morning that he was backed up a couple days so I'm not surprised with the lack of an update yet. I got a very cute email from Steve after he learned about the coach breaking down. In light of the fact that I'm always on him about borrowing it and enjoying himself he wrote, and you wanted me to borrow the motorhome huh. I thought that was cute.

Now I'm growing sleepy and fading fast.

So good night to all,

love

tim

Chugging forward

Dear Family and Friends,
As I write this evening I'm enjoying the last blasts of my office AC with its cool air. We are just back from a run to Tracy where I was able to obtain my fish oil capsules, 400 of them, for less than $10 while I usually pay a co pay of $30 for each 120 capsules at Longs. I call this progress plus I was also able to pick up a huge bottle of vitamins for a lot less than my Centrum Silver ones I've been taking. A dollar saved is a dollar that does not have to be earned but this time Marilyn was kind enough to buy them, that plus dinner at Olive Garden.
This morning I joined Ken for our usual walk in spite of a very sore ankle, a left over from yesterday's long walk on the beach and the subsequent joy of mowing Jason's very large lawn. Then I started an important appraisal of a duplex sale in Oakland, it was due today. Mid morning I drove down to where the motorhome was towed and left information with Pat the owner, picked up some items from the motorhome and then came back home. The mail was a bust today, no money. Around 2 pm I left to go by AAA to turn in the receipt for the towing of the motorhome last evening. What a mess AAA is this time. I've not used their towing for years, just faithfully paid dues each year and last year I opted for a higher fee and better services with the motorhome in mind. Yet last night since the knit wit dispatcher could not locate the correct tow truck locally I had to go outside AAA and hire one from Tracy on my own with a promise from AAA that of course it would be paid back. After I waded through a single page document today I was told in a cheery voice, you will be the money in 4 to 6 weeks. I was shocked and told her so. She said they are required to say 4 to 6 weeks but it could be less, she said she would mark it rush. Yea sure! I tell you I'm pretty upset with the way they handled the whole process. There was a local truck that could have done the job but they did not locate it, didn't even try. So I'm looking into other services that offer a more specific service for motorhomes, like Good Sam. One trusts that services offered will be honored when needed yet that was not the case at all.
After the inspiring visit to the AAA office in Antioch I drove on to Martinez where I inspected an interesting home for a reverse mortgage. The dear lady had lost her husband of over 40 years just over a year ago, works long hours every day doing pools and had every piece of paper ever collected by their family for the past 40 years. I've never seen so many piles of important papers, I really felt for her and the load she must cope with every day.
Next I headed out to Antioch to do a driveby of a small condo in a project I've worked in dozens of times over the years. Then it was a stop at CVS, formerly Longs for meds and finally home.
During the day I had the delightful chance to talk to Timothy on the phone, "I love you Pappa" were his final words before resuming his play, then this evening I spoke to Nikki who had just spent another frustrating day working at Los Alamos on an audit, she just wants to see her kidos every night! Who can blame her!
Now its bed time after a busy and challenging day. At this point no word yet on the motorhome and its ills. But there is no rush either, let them fix the cars that people need to get them to work, after all the motorhome is not going anywhere for awhile. I did make one discovery this morning, as I looked at the front of the coach I happened to look down at the tires. Often when a tire has just gone through dry dirt the tire will retain some of the dirt on the tred and you can get a better idea of how the tires are wearing. The passenger front tire is wearing very badly on the inside, something I was not aware of. It troubled me for several hours as I felt just one more expense to deal with but then I realized that there is a perfectly new spare tire hanging under the rear of the motorhome just waiting to be used, problem solved! Who cares if the spare has poor wear patterns, it will be a spare!
Good night my friends,,

love to all

Tim

Almost home and then the motorhome broke down.

Well this has been a great weekend and it was going great right up to a point about 5 miles from home when the motorhome suddenly died, no power steering, now power brakes and almost no control of the coach. What we both feel is so totally miraculous is that we drove home using Highway 17 which is narrow, high speed and steep. Had the motorhome gone dead there it is highly likely we would have had an accident but we feel God protected us to the point where the traffic was slow, the road was straight and we were able to make a complete stop safely.
When I checked under the hood the battery cables to the plus side were not tight. I worked on them a bit and then Marilyn called Ray and Lois who came to rescue Marilyn and the doggies while Ray helped with the process of getting the battery terminal wires totally tight. He ran to town after Lois confirmed the store was still open. He was able to find just the right part, came back, we put it in but turning the key produces Nothing, no dash lights, no ignition, no starting. So began the AAA process to get it towed just 2 miles down the road to a garage I trust. First I waited an hour for the tow truck to arrive but when it did the driver wanted to know why I had not told them I had a 29 foot long motorhome. Actually that was the first thing I told the dispatcher, that my 29 foot motorhome had failed and I need to be towed. Eventually AAA threw up their hands and said they could not do anything, this in spite of the fact that I pay the extra fee so they will tow MOTOR HOMES per their literature. Finally they took to the yellow pages and struggled to find a tow truck company that could tow motorhomes. This process took two hours while they wasted my time. It grew dark and still no help. Finally a AAA operator found a company in Tracy that could help and so a very knowledgeable operator arrived from Tracy with the right equipment and towed the motorhome the two miles to the garage and collected his $200 cash. Thank you Marilyn! AAA promises to reimburse the costs up to $200 so I intend to be in their office tomorrow with the receipt to get Marilyn's money back. So our on time arrived of 5:45 became 10:45 but we are both extremely thankful that if it had to break down it did it where it was safe.
Our time at Jason and Jo's was very enjoyable. Timothy is at an amazing age now and does such cute things like blink, of course it is with both eyes and totally adorable. Jo and Jason made some excellent food and this morning I walked my 3 miles plus on the beach with the dogs in the fog. Then after breakfast Jo and Marilyn went grocery shopping for their upcoming week and Jason and I did the lawns which just happen to be huge and very much like a gym workout. After a great lunch of eggplant, broccoli and pasta we loaded up and headed home. Our trip was totally enjoyable and met every goal we had set, rest, relaxation, time with Timothy, catching up on Jason and Jo's exciting lives and some beach time. It was all good.
Tomorrow I jump right back into the work world with appraisals in Antioch and Martinez, comp photos in Oakland and an appraisal that needs to be out by night time, wow, busy.
I am thankful for God's blessings and what we used to call travel mercies.

Love to all,
ps Nikki, have a safe and good week

Mellow Sabbath day

Dear Family and Friends,

What a fun day!  There times when life seems really good and meaningful.  Today is one of those days.  

We woke late, after 8 am!  Then Jo and Jason created an excellent breakfast with whole wheat pancakes.  Then it was time to get ready for Sabbath School which at MBA is  a huge production.  It was a full house today and the kidos enjoyed singing, doing activities all under the lets go camping these.  It is amazing just how complicated the program becomes and the kids have a blast as do the adults.

Our perfect day is marred with thick smoke from the nearby fire which is continuing to burn with little control so far.  Even though the actual fire is miles away the wind brings the smoke right over the campus and the bay.  Instead of eating outside at the school potluck and endure the choking effects of the smoke we instead opted for a lovely lunch in town at a tiny Italian place where the food was outstanding.  Marilyn treated us to an unforgettable lunch.  

Afterwards we headed back to MBA and naps for all, even the dogs took a break from barking to rest.  Our weather has not been too warm and while I was resting in the leather recliner in the motorhome my feet grew colder and colder.  Starr came to the rescue and curled up on my feet and saved the day.

After the nap I tried to make the laptop connect to the wireless internet but after hours of trying I had to finally give up.  If you know me when it comes to mechanical things I hate to give up but finally I'm giving up on the connection and instead am writing this on Jo's laptop in the house which is connected perfectly.

This evening Jo and Jason had a couple over who are about a day from having their new baby girl. Jason is a vegetarian but really knows his way around the BBQ and created some chicken that seems to gather raves.  We also cooked corn and gardenburgers which turned out great.

Now we are watching over Timothy while Jason and Jo are heading out for a late night on the town.  They enjoy having me come visit partially so they can have the chance to get out.  Works all around since I love to spend time with Timothy.  The only way this day could be better is if my other family could be here but with Nikki just home from her week away working they are enjoying a family day together.

Tomorrow we will head back to Discovery Bay and the hotter climate.  It has been amazing here with the cool nights and the beautiful views of the ocean and the protected world of MBA.  Jason and Jo are doing a very courageous thing this year with Jo resigning from teaching and instead staying home with Timothy.  That means they must live on a single salary and the challenges of living in California on less income.  Yet they firmly believe this is the right answer and I laud them for giving it a try.

I hope your weekend is going great and that you are enjoying family, worship and fellowship.

So take care my friends,

love to all

Tim

After the storm comes the calm

Dear Family and Friends,
As I write we are sitting here in the motorhome with the sounds of the surf in the distance. We arrived about 7:30 after a uneventful trip down. If you consider being buffeted with high winds, passing through dense smoke and enduring a bit of traffic here and there then it was pretty mundane.
This morning I woke at about 5 and was very troubled. Anxiety filled my heart and I prayed and discussed everything with our loving Father. Finally I rolled out but the dogs were not even close to getting up and looked at me and then went back to sleep. I pulled out a raggy robe and headed down to begin work. I grabbed a 32 oz glass of water and started to work. Before long I had an appraisal completed and emailed to the lender through my favorite management company, why you say, well for starters they only charge $10 for each appraisal order. Once it was 8 am I began to call potential clients seeking an appointment for today. One lady could not see me until Monday but the second agreed to my coming during the morning. So a little later I left for Patterson. On the way I passed near to the huge fire burning near the Highway 5 and the smoke was incredible but was being pushed away by high winds. I enjoyed meeting the nice lady and inspected her home. Then after a quick burrito I was on the road back to Discovery Bay. A nice lady at the bank had called to say I was overdrawn and could I bring money in. It was what I was talking to the Lord about, where to locate some money to cover the PG&E payment.
As I neared home I began to talk to myself, its OK if there is no money, things will work out, how, well they will. So I opened the box and there was nothing. When I opened the door Marilyn told me, no money today, so sorry. That was a hit. So I took the mail from her and went through it and there in a typed envelope was hiding a check for $400. It was more than enough to bring the account into a positive state, tears crept to my eyes as I felt the impact of once again the Lord helping out. It was payment for an appraisal I had forgotten I had even done but they had not forgotten. How good it felt to walk into the bank and make the deposit.
Then it was a quick trip back home with a lifted step and hope once again filling my heart.
Marilyn packed the motorhome box with food items and we loaded up quickly for our trip. Just before we left a new order came in for a 2 million dollar property in Livermore and earlier in the day another order had come in for a driveby in Antioch. It was a good way to end the week.
As we drove down I began to really enjoy the rewards of more air in the tires. Mind you we didn't just put a little air in. We took tires from 64 psi to 88 psi and what a difference it made. The motorhome leaned less, turned easier, stopped more quickly and behaved better. Thanks to Ken and Ray who urged me to get the tire pressure right and to make sure I check it more often.
So here we are with Jason, Jo and Timothy tonight. When we arrived Jo brought Timothy out onto the porch and he watched us get out. He smiled and totally charmed us all evening. How fun to read books with him, play with him and hug him. Mission accomplished, our trip is worth it.
So as I conclude this evening I am thankful for family, blessings, basic income and life itself.
As I write Nikki has arrived home to spend a glorious weekend with her family, I am glad that they can be back together.

Love to all and have a great Sabbath, a great weekend, love, touch, care, get off your butt and do something loving for the people that you love most.

Tim

Summer days

Dear Family and Friends,
Well the very warm days of summer are here. Ken and I walked this morning but it was already 70 when we walked and the day grew warmer from then on. I got out as soon as I could this morning to see two properties in Brentwood, one a 3700 sf REO in good condition with a pool, sport court and huge lot, $425,000. Of course it was listed for $393 or something so buyers are driving prices higher, well above list price. After I completed that home and shop the comps I headed to the second home but the phone rang and it was Lois, she had fallen and thought she might have broken her leg. As I was far away I called LeAnn who came over and along with Loree got her on her feet and into the house. Later Lois called to say she had showered and felt some better, now she just called to say she is in great pain. This could be a rough night for her and I know prayers are in order for her.
I came home and sat down and wrote the appraisal for the inspection I had just completed. Then it was time to pick up the girls, drop Kallie off to her daddy and take Keanna to gymnastics class. Keanna had a great time. Afterwards we drove to a local mexican place that Keanna and I both like and she ordered her food, salted the chips, got my straw out for me and kept Marilyn and I both amused. Then we dropped her off and came on home. We took the time to position the motorhome so we could drop the line and dump the tanks. Sure helps to have someone to warn you when you are getting to near the house. Now the motorhome is hooked up again and the frig is cooling for our trip to see Jason and Jo and Mr. Timothy. What fun we plan to have with his highness. I can't wait to see his new behaviors and hear his new words. Of course the fact that the ocean can be heard in the distance and the cool coastal breezes will be blowing over us is not important at all!!
This of it, last Friday night we were at Jerry's at his beautiful acre in the cool mountain air and this weekend we'll be at MBA to enjoy more beauty. I'm so looking forward to driving with the newly inflated tires, even just moving it around on the street to position it to dump the tanks I could tell a difference in the way the steering is easier and there is less sway in the coach. When you are broke and getting to the upper end of middle age life's pleasures are a little more basic, like a better handling motorhome or finding a new quicker way to get somewhere, all fun stuff or a dryer that dries loads in one cycle instead of three.
The financial picture is pretty grim right now, just looking forward to a few checks coming in soon.
This evening as we worked outside we could hear many sirens moving about and then the medical hospital arrived to land in the park. Usually that means someone has been hurt on the water and they have been brought to the park where they can be loaded onto the chopper for a quick ride to the trauma center in Walnut Creek or Oakland. It is always an ominous time of reflection considering how many times Steve and Nikki have been on the water over the years and have escaped serious injury during that time.
Sending love to all and a special greeting to Suzie, the bravest little lady! You are loved and admired by so many people.

love

tim

We go to a great BBQ, Steve hosts

Dear Family / Friends
Wow what a job Steve did tonight! He invited us to join him for a BBQ at his house tonight. We picked up Kallie at the sitters where she was still asleep. Keanna had been with me all afternoon and Marilyn kept her busy.

This morning I rose, showered, had a quick breakfast and after doing research headed for Alameda and then Oakland to inspect a duplex. Traffic was pretty hit and miss but I arrived about 9:05 where I picked up a key and then drove several miles to the duplex. How can I describe it? It was one of the worst I have seen in years. Grease on the floors in the kitchens reaching the middle of the room, bathroom fixtures so awful they cannot be described, carpets so filthy that the color is gone, every room shows evidence of squatters, all windows broken out, covered with plywood, front doors secured by plywood on hinges and padlocks, pretty grim. Selling for $275K, wow!

Problems began to mount as the day progressed. I started off with 32 oz of water this morning and then drank another 16 oz as I drove to Alameda so when I arrived in town the first stop was a bathroom. I finally found a station and that brought great relief. I picked up the key and made my way to the property but by then I needed to go again, well the water was not on in place so I measured it as quickly as I could. Finding a place in that area was challenging as is basic safety. Finally I found a Home Depot but after walking carefully all the way to the rest rooms I found both had yellow tape and signs saying they were broken. I discovered to my chagrin that all stores in that shopping center were without sewer, yikes now it was getting critical, who says drinking water is good for health! Finally a Michaels saved the day but that door had a code or no entry. By then my time was passing too fast. I had no time to shoot comps and get back to pick up Ms Keanna at 12:45 so planning ahead I headed back to Alameda to return the key and then headed home but what was that buzzing sound? The warning low fuel light was glowing and I had gone 575 miles. Now it was a race against time and had to located diesel as well.
Off the road I went in Castro Valley to a place I used to know and I slid in, found a credit card with room and filled it up with over 13 gallons. Now it was to the minute to get to the school to pick up Keanna but why was traffic slowing in the middle of the day? After a few miles it cleared and I could do 75 again. The GPS taunted me with a warning of 1 hour to reach destination but I only had 45 minutes. Well the GPS was wrong and I had two minutes to spare when I arrived to pick up her highness. She was full of excitement as she trooped through the gate and our afternoon began.
Now mind you she has just finished her lunch at school but needs a snack. Today she announced she would like Aladinos, curly fries and chicken nuggets with lemonade. So we had Lois join us and we all went there for lunch. Keanna played the various machines that eat coins at an alarming rate and finally we coaxed her from the building and drove home. Marilyn presented her with a neat new etch o sketch which filled the afternoon with delight.
Meanwhile I combed the mail for checks but came up dry. Knowing that the car payment was about to hit I drew a few more dollars from the meager savings and went to make a deposit. I also remembered that today was the day for PG&E to be paid or else.
Then wonder of wonders Judy called. Judy and I go way back, she has ordered appraisals from Nan and me for many many years but lately of course she can no longer do that so all of her conventional deals have gone through management companies. Her horror stories were so sad. The latest appraisal request was for something local here in Discovery Bay and the appraiser charged her $1,000 while the going rate is $375. This time she could use me since the deal was FHA. She is always so good about payment, she had the credit card number for me and I ran it so $475 is about to enter the account. I had prayed as earnestly as I knew how this morning for money and work, here it came and I told her that her call and order were an answer to prayer. She was touched and so was I. I will see the property in the morning and have the report completed by tomorrow afternoon. Its the least I can do.
Well sleep is creeping upon me as I write. As usual the day is not boring but I could do with a little less drama. I loved having Keanna here and tonight seeing Kallie in action was great too. I have several photos to share but can't get them out of my phone this evening.
Sending love to all,

Tim

Back to normal

Dear Family and Friends,
Well its time to wind this day up and put it in the memory books. It was a pretty normal day with a early morning walk in the cool air, then I set to work and Marilyn left to go shopping for the day. She had read a book until 4:30 this morning so was sort of sleepy. Great book I guess. I settled down to work and do laundry at the same time. I did several loads and they are all dried and folded, hung and completed tonight.
I worked on an appraisal and wrote emails to a couple of management companies that I thought I would get orders from by now. One email back with promises of future work someday. The mail contained no funds but I took a call from a creditor this morning and it went very badly. She kept hammering me as to why I had fallen behind on the motorhome payment and I explained that Nan had died, that my business was really going through a time of readjustment and I was doing my best. She just could not let it go, just kept asking me to sort of repeat after her why I was behind, finally in frustration I just hung up. After a few minutes not feeling very good about that behavior I called back. I am so glad I did. The lady that took the call was totally different. I explained what had happened and she said, didn't she explain that we can give you a 3 month period without any payments or a 6 month period with 20% less payment amount. Well I told her, no that was news to me. She explained that I had to get one more payment made soon, within a week and then they would waive the payments for 3 months, adding them to the end of the loan without any penalties. She explained that they would much rather help people than end up with returned vehicles that they get pennys on the dollar for. She said, besides often people end up living in the motorhomes when they lose they houses. She was really helpful and I hope I can find funds to do the extra payment and take advantage of the 3 month holiday. My intention is not to skip the three months but get ahead on the payments or at least totally caught up. So a bad experience turned out well and hopeful.
Later in the day suddenly my computer made the little sound that tells me a new email has arrived. Well this one was for a duplex report in Oakland which pays $600. I'm seeing it at 9 in the morning, wow was that a blessing!
This evening we had cheap pizza since Tuesday is $5.00 a pie pricing locally. We ate with Lois and Ray and then came home to a warm house, its not cool outside yet.
Today within a few hours I got to talk to Sibyl, my sister who lives in Ohio and Jerry who lives in Weed. That was special to me as I'm taking a new interest in relationships I do have and trying to build on them. The trip to Weed was special in many ways. It was a mood builder, a great chance to be with people who are very easy to love and an adventure. I don't know about you but I thrive on adventures and don't deal well with sameness and boredom very well. And in that spirit I believe we are going to venture to Jason and Jo's this weekend, to enjoy Mr Timothy and hear all his new phrases and actions, I can hardly wait. Of course the setting with the sounds of the surf is hard to take as well and to get to catch up with Jo and Jason as they move forward with their lives, well that is always a very special time.
So my friend this brings me to the end of tonight's drama, good night and be well.

love

tim

basking in the glow of deeper maturity

Dear Friends and Family,
Thanks to all of you who have send birthday greetings today through Face Book, emails, calls, singing calls, lunch and dinners and good thoughts. I had no idea it would be this much fun to become 61. This is a number of years I never expected to reach, no one expects to grow old when they are young or even 40, but my friends it happens fast.
Ken and I walked this morning and then I played on the computer receiving more and more face book messages. I set up some orders, took the final steps to get my E&O policy in shape for the new year and prepared for lunch. Loree picked us up in her beautiful Denali SUV and we drove to Red Robin for a yummy lunch and great conversation. Of course at the end we had to endure the singing and ice cream sundae. I napped the afternoon away and set up orders. Then this evening we got to join Steve and the girls for dinner here in Discovery Bay. Afterwards we played a bit on the front lawn with Kallie walking everywhere, Keanna climbing rocks and jumping. Then it was back home to have an offer I could not refuse from Ken, he brought over his big compressor and we took the time to fill the motorhome tires up to 88 lbs. You can really tell the coach sits higher with more air in the tires. Now to drive it and see how that goes. Then Ray appeared with a case of Coors, it was actually a very clever way of wrapping several nice birthday gifts that I can really use, a new can of mocha, oatmeal pancake mix, cooking thermometer etc. Great fun. Now he and Marilyn are settling the remainder of the ills of the world in the other room while I type. I'm heading to bed soon after I put away the cars in the garage.
Tomorrow I need to settle down and work. Its time to quit paying and produce.
I am so thankful for the kindness I've experienced today from Loree, Marilyn, Steve and the girls, Aunt Ann, Fern, Ray and Lois, Jerry, Nikki and Jason and on and on and especially Ken and LeAnn for their special help. What fun to be in the world of great family and friends.

So now love to each and every one of you,

Tim

Safely home, a perfect weekend

Dear Family and Friends,
Marilyn and I arrived back in Discovery Bay at about 7:05 this evening. Our arrival marked a perfect weekend with glorious weather, beautiful surroundings, a warm and memorable time with extended family and a send off birthday lunch today at my favorite place in Mt Shasta.
Words will not begin to convey the joy I experienced at seeing Suzie and getting to spend time with her this weekend. The support and loving arms that embrace her at Jerry and Donna's home is nothing short of spectacular. 4 sisters, every one a total character, every one outspoken and stubborn, everyone is funny, witty and totally committed to family.
We arrived Friday evening on schedule at 7 pm and enjoyed a great feast together. We hooked up electrical power which supplied the motorhome frig, lights, fans and even the TV. After spending a nice evening we settled in only to discover that nights get cool at 4,000 feet. We woke refreshed and ready for the new day. Donna and Cindy had created a special breakfast dish that was just incredible and we all sipped either coffee or mocha which was introduced to us all by Nan long ago. Jerry and I went for in inspiring walk in which my heart and lungs decided that neither were up to the altitude, the blood sugar dropped and I had to turn back. My brother who is an amazing 10 years older than me was not even breathing hard.
We all took naps from time to time and then talked and enjoyed the afternoon sun on the back deck, two dogs, one large and one tiny provide constant enjoyment as they perform for the guests and are just great friends to all. Jerry's dog Saddie is a long hair doxy with mostly black and limited brown hair. She is just beautiful and has huge eyes that follow your every movement. My Starr proved to be a very unfriendly intruder so spent many hours in the motorhome considering her ways, there is no evidence that the time outs helped her a bit. Lady and Starr enjoyed their early morning walks around the property with me each morning and then enjoyed their treats upon arrival back at the motorhome.
To my surprise when I just chanced turning on the TV it found a local outlet for 3ABN, a seventh-day adventist TV station. It along with several other stations were still broadcasting in analog and my TV received them just fine. It was fun to find the Sacramento Central SDA church featured. That is the church where Marilyn and Walt were the caretakers and were Nan and I first entered ministry so seeing it struck up a lot of memories for both of us.
The entire family accepted Marilyn like she had been a part of the family for ever. she commented over and over again on the way home about the depth of the friendship extended during her time there. There was general agreement that we would make yet another trip while Marilyn is here because we had such a good time.
I think we were able to average about 10 mpg for the trip and we traveled at 60 the entire time. We found it very warm as we descended into Redding this afternoon and could feel the heat outside and even some of it as it crept inside. We survived just fine though.
I wish you could know the quality of people Jerry and Donna are. They don't have a fake bone in their bodies, they are loving, caring, supportive creative people and I'm proud to claim them as my own.
Now we are back for a new week. I have a couple new orders to deal with and several to get written up. At another time I'll share some new insights I gained from reading the most recent issue of Time magazine about weight gain and exercise. Its not what you think at all.

So for now, good night to all, I'm thankful to a protecting God for a safe trip over the 600 miles between here and there.

love to all

Tim

It does not get better than this.....

Dear Family and Friends,
This has been one of those days for the permanent memory file. This place is beautiful, the tall trees with whispering winds wafting through, the eager garden waving sunflowers among the verdant green of the wide variety of growing plants, string beans, watermelon, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, carrots, radishes, beets, corn and so it goes. This is a garden where weeds do NOT grow, they are not allowed by faithful farmer Jerry who monitors the garden on a seemingly hourly basis. When I woke this morning after a very chilly night and took the anxious dogs out for their morning walk we found a crisp and beautiful morning with deep blue skies, singing birds and other wild creatures. We walked the entire acre and the dogs thought they were in heaven with smells on every corner. Jerry has created points of interest with fruit trees, patio areas, a wide variety of flowers, shrubs and what seems like miles of green lawn.
The night was interesting. I thought well its summer and one blanket should cover it. Wrong! Marilyn sleeps in the back and controls the furnace, well let me tell you the furnace did NOT come on at all since she was snug as a bug under her two blankets. Meanwhile ice was forming on my breathing mask and the dogs clung to me for warmth. Of course a comforter was just inches from where I slept safely stored under the bed but that would have involved my getting up in the very cold air so I just huddled and shivered. Tonight things change, the comforter comes out and the wonderful mountain air will be repelled, I will sleep warm. I've learned my lesson, when in the mountains remember the chill at comes when the sun sets.
Today has been an exciting adventure with my brother attempting to end my life with a treacherous hike up over mountain paths, near roaring streams and avoiding wildlife. Actually it was a dream come true. I've heard about Jerry's legendary hikes for years through the absolutely gorgeous countryside with Mt Shasta looming in the distance, mature firs and pines all around and the crisp mountain air in ones nostrils. My problem was one of too much weight, a habit of walking my three miles on totally level terrain at about 20 feet above sea level. To me it felt like we were nearing the top of Everest but Jerry says it is only about 3,700 or 3,800 feet. My poor lungs just kept searching for air and found less than they wanted. At home the only hill I climb is when I step up on the curb! Jerry was just getting into his groove and was sharing what was up ahead and happened to mention that we had to go the same distance back from where ever we hiked. I decided it was time right then to turn back or call the medics. Eventually we made it home and sitting down in his comfortable deck chair felt so good. No wonder this super man has lost 21 lbs over the last year, hiking these trails at this altitude. It was an unforgettable hike and we managed to avoid snakes, bears, cougars and were only threatened by a menacing grey squirrel who complained at us from a branch in a tree.
Breakfast was a special French toast that marinates overnight and it was wonderful. Later in the day we had a BBQ with duck, chicken, corn and a lonely Griller. Everyone made special foods and the family interaction is something to behold. These four sisters and their mom having their discussions is amusing and amazing. There are lots of laughs, plans, memories in the making.
Suzie is right in the middle of all this love and caring. She is a pretty feisty participant and holds her own very well. She eats as much as she can, rests when she needs to and is just a total inspiration. This evening we've just been sitting on Suzie's huge and red comfy conversation sofa which holds about 20 people and there was plenty of conversation taking place. This family has opened its arms to Marilyn and one would never guess that 24 hours ago she just met most of these family members.
Now its time to crash and try to make it through the chilly mountain night. This time I'm ready, if Marilyn will not turn on the furnace and she won't I'm guessing then I'll just get the huge comforter out, marshal the dogs to sleep by me and be warm. Oh that I could retain some of this chilly evening as we had back to the valley tomorrow where reports indicated a temperature of about 95 in Redding.
So good night to all,
Sending love

Tim
PS Barbie reports she is home from her time in surgery on Friday and she is feeling well.

Are we in Heaven?

Dear Family and Friends,
As I write this evening I am sitting in Jerry and Donna's spacious office in beautiful Weed. Marilyn and I arrived at 7 this evening after a busy day.
I rolled out this morning and instead of walking I made my sleepy way to the motorhome which was sitting silent in the driveway. For the first time since Nan died I got my bucket and long handled brush, filled it with warm water and car soap and attacked a very filthy motorhome. The dirt ran down from everywhere and kept appearing from edges and cracks. Finally under the direction of Lois who came over to spray water and share insights I completed the task. Then I made the mistake of checking the air pressure in the tires. I think that is another task that has not been done in many years. All the tires showed 64 psi but when I read the side wall of the tires it said 95 psi. Well I was concerned to I started to seek advice. The best advice came from Art and Jerry who told me that I really did not need to have the tires at the 95 but they were probably low at 64. Since I had no way of adding pressure I decided to make the trip at the 64 level and I'll get them better adjusted here at Jerrys since he has a compressor and we can check them when they are cold. Of course all the way up I kept wondering, waiting for a tire failure now that I knew I was driving with them lower than the approved psi. Fortunately we arrived safely. Our trip up was uneventful and between the gps telling me how many hours and miles I had to go and the xm radio keeping us informed the trip went well. How strange and wonderful to have someone jump up and grab a new bottle of water while I kept driving. Marilyn brought me up to speed on what has been happening at their home and before long we were here. We could see smoke in the distance from some pretty nasty fires that are burning nearby. Lake Shasta is very low but beautiful as usual and finally we made a turn in the road and Mt Shasta appeared in the distance. What a majestic sight with fresh snow. It reminded me of the time Ed Dower organized a trip of school kids from Lodi who wanted to climb Shasta and we drove here. I made it to the 10,000 foot level where I ended spending the night with 5 other people in a large mountain tent. During the night a mini blizzard raged outside and once when I got up to look out I could see Highway 5 in the distance. It was a beautiful sight and the cars and trucks looked like matchbox cars in the distance.
This morning I was able to work in an appraisal of a house no more than 2 blocks from the house and along the way the road was nearly blocked with a semi truck and trailer. As I neared I realized that a huge racing hydroplane was on its side on the trailer. Later I learned it was worth 1 million dollars and was the latest in a long line of boats this guy owns. Must be nice. I asked if he raced them, no came the answer, he is too old and sickly to do that. Ok, that is interesting.
So this evening the motorhome is going to experience cool weather again. It might be in the 40s tonight, now that will be exciting, at least 20 degrees cooler than at home. This is a beautiful place with forests, lakes, mountains and altitude. But the nicest thing about being here is not the place but the people. Family is a very precious thing and this part of my family is really amazing. Jerry and Donna have an open door to all the family members who live in the area and to many friends as well. Donna just happens to be an awesome cook and she and Jerry have created a way of life that is tremendous. Since Jerry retired and was able to be home all the time he has started to walk faithfully and with the nutrition Donna provides his health has improved, his weight has dropped and he is doing very well, enjoying his retirement and has become a pillar for the family.
So it is with pleasure that Marilyn and I are getting to visit. We are delighted that we are getting to see Suzie who is very courageous in her battle. She is an inspiration and I needed inspiring so we drove here. Already we have had a chance to spend some time and its great.
Please remember Suzie in your prayers that God will guide and love her in His own special way. Also please remember Barbie Lammerding who had surgery today, I know she appreciates being remembered in prayer too.
Well its time to wind this up. I am delighted to have arrived safely in the old motorhome, the dogs are delighted to be on the road again and this is living, to get to be with family.

Love to all,

Tim

Another day, another $425

I had the most amazing revelation this morning when I woke at 5 am. As I drifted back and forth between desiring to go back to sleep and running important issues through my mental processor a lightning bolt hit.

The question that loomed large was simply this, how can I be gaining weight while at the same time eating about the same and walking 3 miles nearly every day? What has changed? Then I remembered that the body fat ratio has been gradually creeping up from about 37 to 44 %. Suddenly it was very clear, with so little work to do, so few trips to the field, so few houses to measure and climb all around, so little time spent driving, shifting, using the clutch, I've been doing a lot less, yet eating the same amount. No wonder my body is shifting. Sitting in this chair for 12 hours a day does not require a huge amount of exercise or movement. The answer also was very clear, eat less. I've seen the studies from other countries where people consume very small amounts of food yet live well past 100 years. It makes perfect sense, now all I have to do is tell my brain, inform the discipline centers and move forward. Have you ever been struck with something so fundamental and basic that afterwards it seems like a total no brainer? Move more or eat less or eat much less and with better choices and turn this train wreck around.

As I write Marilyn is doing something with the laptop and is about to fall asleep, I'm listening to the lovely sounds of the dryer as it drys the sheets for the motorhome removing reams of dog hair. In the morning when I wake I'll jump up and give the motorhome a good washing from top to bottom, then I'll pack what needs to go and then do some office work. At 11 I'll see a local property and pick up yet another check, can we say praise the good Lord! Then after seeing the property which is located less than 3 blocks from mine I'll come back home and we will leave in the motorhome for Weed, a destination which is about 300 miles distant. The weather looks great for travel and the dogs are primed and ready to hit the road. Marilyn is game but when I told her she would need to do most of the driving she balked, not sure why, it is just a bigger version of a normal car. I've got to tell you that when I learned that Yvonne Miller did a lot of the driving of their diesel pusher I was impressed and then I heard about Phyllis B also driving I was impressed. But when I heard that Yvonne drove the motorhome to Socal campmeeting all by herself I was really impressed. Wow!

This has been a pretty good week with some income, cool weather so less AC expense, really nice talks with Marilyn and tonight was the best, Nikki asked if we wanted to join the girls for a bite after the gymnastics class was over. We were able to arrive so we could observe the last half of the class and to see Keanna walking on the balance beam which to me was way to high in the air, yikes I could hardly watch. We went to LaVilla located in Bethel Island where we had a great meal. Kallie finished her meal first so I took her for a walk about outside. We saw the wind in the trees and in her hair, the sun setting, 4 wild kitties, a rusty bench to sit on, so much adventure. What fun to see them in action. Keanna always salts the chips and puts a fake sugar in my water to help the lemon water taste better, she opens my straw for me, these are little traditions we've established.

The girls ganged up on me forbidding me from picking up the tab even though I knew that for a few hours I actually had money in the account and could have paid. Actually I do appreciate their concern and help.

Please pray from my friend Clair, he is a wonderful person with a trumpet for a voice, we sang together a lot in the Adoration Singers. Clair is battling skin cancer and has had some surgery recently from which he is recovering. Now he is preparing for radiation and to do get ready he will have to lose part of his beautiful and always perfect beard. He and Beverly are so supportive of each other and are genuine Christian people. Also keep Suzie in your prayers. We are looking forward to spending time with her and just admiring her precious and powerful faith and spirit. A human being is a precious gift of God and the more we do for each other by way of support, touch, love and communication the better. It is the very essence of being alive, to touch another human being.

I wish all my family could be with me this weekend as we travel up to see Jerry and Donna and the extended family.

Tonight I send love to all, family and friends, you are the best there is........

love

Tim

Marilyn wakes up

Dear Family and Friends,
Marilyn is adjusting to a time shift, 3 hour adjustment from Eastern Standard Time to Pacific Standard Time. She helped with Keanna this afternoon, managed to teach me a lot about the control to the Direct TV system and is now watching some stimulating program about a Japanese Game Show but mostly falling asleep.

I'm going to bed very soon, long day with not a lot of production to show for it. Keanna came to the car this afternoon with some scrapes from the asphalt they play on so the rest of the afternoon she was applying band aids. We got her learning video game to work which was a minor miracle, Marilyn carefully cleaned the contact points for the games and they played perfectly. Keanna had chicken mcnuggets, apple juice, then at the house a sack of popcorn, two red jellos, bottle of water. When Kallie came in she began to explore the house. I just walked behind her to keep her safe and its amazing to see how fast she walks, runs and can climb too. I saw her eying the dog door sort of considering if she could make it through to the back deck. We are so far from child safe here for her.

Well I'm fading fast. Ken the walk master has decreed that we have to walk faster so I can dump some weight and we walk at 6:30 so good night to all.

Love

tim

She has arrived............

Dear Family and Friends,
As long last Marilyn has arrived. After a long day in the air and stops in Chicago, LA and Oakland Marilyn was 18 minutes early on the ground. Our trip home was remarkably free of traffic and we are back and she is getting settled in. Amazing to me is the fact that she left the east coast at 4:30 this afternoon yet it seemed like a very long day to her.
My day has been interesting starting with a walk around the lake with Ken at 6:30, then some quick work in the office and breakfast and the first appointment of the day. It was a beautiful home in every way and I enjoyed my time there, then back to the office for a quick nap and off to the second appointment of the day where I found yet another very nice home with delightful people. I ended up talking so much that the comparable photos were shot at 8 pm with very little light. Then it was time to shop at Raley's for some health food. Wow is it expensive now, How times have changed. After shopping I headed for the Oakland Airport and arrived on time there.
It will be an exciting new experience to have someone in the house, someone beside the dogs to talk to and bounce ideas off of, someone to finally figure out how to use the DVR and record the right shows.
Right now its time to turn in. 6:15 will come early in the morning for our walk.

Love to all,

Tim

Oh Me of little faith

Dear Family and Friends,
I'm telling you its pretty amazing and wonderful even. Last Friday in the afternoon I went ahead and paid my house payment on line. It is a substantial house payment and hits hard every month. At that time I was about half the way to covering it after the money came in on Thursday and Friday. I knew it would hit my account either today or tomorrow. When I opened the account this morning on line it had hit. I was about $600 overdrawn. All morning I worked emailing out appraisals and writing more, setting up new orders and finally at 12:40 I could wait no longer and made the long walk to the mailbox. As I pulled out the mail at first I only saw bills and an IRS letter but then as I sifted the mail apart a thin envelope from Academy Mortgage came into view. I thought that they had paid for everything but amazingly the check was for $800 and along with a small check that came in on Saturday the deposit came to slightly over $1,000. It was a pleasure to drive to the bank and made that deposit and to be reassured that the account was now in the black. I praise God for helping yet another time.
For breakfast today I had a huge fruit salad and for lunch a huge salad with Romaine lettuce as its base with cherry tomatoes, other greens and some sauteed mushrooms. It was great and I ate it slowly while sitting on the back deck watching the lazy ducks swim back and forth as the gentle breezes played over the water.
Late this afternoon Nikki called and invited me to join them as she and Kallie attended a class for little ones and moms in the gym. At least Nikki got a good workout keeping up with Kallie. Keanna and I observed. After I left the girls I made a snap decision to go ahead and use the free burger coupon that appeared in my email today from Red Robin. They make a wonderful garden burger. When I was nearing the end of the burger Nikki, my waitress took the coupon for the free burger and suddenly a bunch of young ladies appeared and sang me their version of a birthday song and produced a little sundae, wow was it good. It was a nice end to a blessed day.
Late news flash, the elusive Marilyn is set to arrive in Oakland tomorrow night at 10:10 from Rhode Island. Finally she arrives. She is hoping to escape the rain that has plagued them nearly every day since Christmas. I promised her no rain, a promise I think I can keep.
Good night my friend and it is really no secret what God can do, what He's done for others, he can do for you!
love

Tim

Living for a change

Dear Ones,

This has really been a pretty good weekend. First off I got to take Keanna to Sabbath School and spend time with her. What a fun experience. Then I got some much needed rest, made a fruit salad which with low fat whipped cream is really special. This morning I invited Ray and Lois for Belgium Waffles. I invited Ken too but he did not think he could get the idea of him eating waffles past his caring food sheriff, LeAnn. Lois and Ray came over at 9 and I had things set on the back deck using the table Steve and Nikki have lent me. I kept the waffles coming and we had fresh strawberries and whipped cream, orange juice, mocha and amazingly none of us got sick. After breakfast we ended up playing with our dogs, tweaking the sprinkling systems for the tomatoes and flowers and just enjoying a perfect morning. Later in the day Ken and LeAnn had a BBQ for family and friends and it was just good to see all of us enjoy the lake, the cool weather and people fellowshiping.

I came in and worked for awhile this afternoon and then at 5 we drove to brentwood to pick up my meds, had a burrito with rice at a little place and then went to Food Max which is a kick. I enjoy buying more for less and Ray is a master at prices having worked for a grocery store in his younger years.

Now I'm back home and after I got home and settled into my chair I heard noises outside, it was Ray packing up branches from we both had trimmed the tree. We packed several garbage cans and some sacks with the trash and now my side yard is nice, clear of the clutter, thanks Ray and Lois for supervising!!

I am determining to get out more, do more and eat less. I've sort of withdrawn from nearly everyone and I'm tired of hiding and wasting away.

Two orders have come in this afternoon so things are looking up for the upcoming week.

Sending love to all,

Tim