Big Shoes

Big Shoes
Originally uploaded by MDH, II.

Art downtown or rather driving into town, the shoes too big to fit ... art from the sole?

Easter Thanks

Not only am I thanking God and Christ, but also my sister.

Thanks Diane for the movie!

Table for 4 or more

Beth, Tom, Argos, and Sampson came to FW this weekend. They were all behaved -- perhaps the canines more so. Sampson was comfy on the sofa wanting some cuddle time with humans. Argos was in his metal den (cage) so that the typical 2-3 am wrestle-fest of the canines did not take place.

Beth and Tom walked to church and later met up with friends. It was a short, brief, visit. As I wasn't here for very long, I'll ask that Thomas or Beth write about it.

Midway

I'm looking to move in June (ish) to a place midway between work and good ol' FW. If anyone has old stuff that you don't want and is still usable, I would be happy to eliminate it from your "stuff pile".

I have a suspicion, that when I move, I'll get a notice from the USPS that they have an opening and that I can start. Gee -- still driving 30-45 minutes daily, but now -- for better pay. Yeah, I wouldn't mind that. I don't know if they will contact me, but with mildly-inconvenient circumstances, I could really see that happening.

Wish me luck, that would be great news for me! I'd have more time and more cash and better benefits.

Email from the Sprite

Dearest Uncle Marc

I take slightly chewed and slobery pen in paw to write you this quick note. I am a puppy therefore I MUST chew, destroy and generally cause Chaos. That IS my job. Your job is to let me nap on you, rub my tummy and generally love my fat fluffy self. It has always worked this and it always will. Thank you for your support. Now I believe I need a tummy rub and perhaps a treat. I am growing you know!

Love

The fat fluffy golden retriever puppy

Wednesday

Lake across from work

park

Fingers out-stretched to the lake.

That was Monday. On Wednesday, the weather was bad, the traffic was worse, including a serious accident with injuries on the road I travel. It made me run late as well. The injuries (EMS present and cars beyond totalled) were more important than my being "only on time".

I was on time for work, but barely, met with the DM to pre-review. I had to clean some areas before we began for the closing crew did not do such a good job. I note this because it is important later. The crew might have hurried through it and not done a good job, or were so busy that completion of task within the time frame was not realistic or possible.

My meeting lasted a while and during lunch, the DM took me out, so that where we were wasn't occupied by our butts. We talked there, more about non-work related things. I don't think we got as far as we could/should have. The afternoon then was real work. The place was dry and slow. I got a few things done for my self-assigned homework. I got pictures of screens for a training manual for myself and any who follow my course.

I also used MS screen print to send screen pictures to my account, but they never transmitted. What a piece of crap that system is. Anyway ... the business picked up around 3:30, then train-like sped up and forward continually. By 5:30 we were "hoppin" and there were people waiting to sit. That was great business -- great to see it alive and moving, but

we were short on people, very short on people
we were short on supplies and ran out of supplies

At 8:00 the rush ebbed and I was sent out, after my 11.25 hour day. I am quite sure there was a second rush.

The morale was grim that night. Not only had it been busy and they had their butts kicked, but there was a perspective of unfairness between chiefs -- in the eyes of a young man. His opinion of a manager was docked a few points. I listened and understood his opinion. I had a front section job, so didn't work as hard as the Indy pit crew were last night. They were fast, sweaty, and eager. I wish I had something to give them all. I think they did friggin' great.

I am trying to put together a manual for work, but some parts I need didn't come through email -- thanks, work! I would naturually guess a file-size limitation, but that isn't likely considering work. I'll have to do it the less efficient way then and photograph the screen -- larger pics requiring much more work and luck not getting any glare. My manual won't be done this work, for sure.

I included the lovely pictures, for the day wasn't lovely, but the people there are. They are hard-working and dedicated. Sadly, I don't think their efforts are recognized often. One person there noted that [the same person] was seeking another job and if offered would drop this one for the other. Now ... the job doesn't pay too well (imagine that), and the benefits are dubious, but it is a job. The last few weeks of nastiness will take its toll on those working and I'll see a few people drop out, no doubt.

Too much on Tuesday

This didn't really make Chewy jealous. Playing with Chewy made Daisy (dog), jealous.

What you will typically see with Chewy -- running.

Okay, so here you can see the dislike I have for her.

Thomas golfed then played poker -- that's good!
Lois has had such wicked experience with her insulin (bottoming out glucose levels) that I volunteered to pick up Jessica and take her to the dentist appointment, then here to grandfolks' house to mow the grass. Still more, the neighbor asked her to mow his grass.

Well, Marcus had homwork that was interrupted, for sure and later Diane came over with the puppy I shall name, as she has not, Chewy.+

Jessica had a filling fall out --- so the doctor replaced it with a better filling. The bill came to $-0.11. Somehow, I don't think the dentist will be paying anyone eleven cents, but ... stranger things have happened.

The piles from the clippings were on the drives so I swept up them and finally, called it time to go back to my work.

I got some done, then went into work on Wednesday -- entirely different story.

+ Chewy or "Chewie", being the wookie from Star Wars

Furniture?

I'm not moving yet, but I'm thinking in about a couple of months I will. So, if anyone has furniture ... letme know, eh?

clean sweep

The downstairs where the massive leak -- water heater rusted through, had a peculiar smell ... rusty water. Anyway, Thomas asked for the aid of Marcus to help sweeten the smell. The outlandishly-priced and now old and dusty multi-purpose sweeper (Rainbow) had a purpose. After thinking about it ... Thomas put tother the parts and liquid to wash the carpet clean. While the carpet needs replaced -- a project for when the house is sold, cleaning it was the goal. The stain, still a little visible, doesn't have the aroma anymore. It smells clean.

After the puppy comes, we'll see how "clean" it smells for long.

The house, home to people, pets, guests, years of real use has its own aroma. It isn't unpleasant, it's home. The plans for Thomas and Lois are still to move to a new place -- SW of town in a growing community with a ranch-style home. They have put no great effort yet into getting it. Health issues return, as well as stupid appliances feeding the vultures of appliance stores.

low, low, low

Lois petered out ...
sugar low, then, sugar low ... the solution -- change the perspective of the sentence on medicine adminstering, i.e.:
The medicine suggests taking it before meals, but Thomas thinks that taking it in connection with the higher blood sugar level is a better translation of the instructions. Twice or thrice now, Lois has about petered out to oblivion after taking the medicine. It must work well and to keep from visiting the ol' hospital, Thomas will help Lois remember not to take it with average or low blood sugar.

The other ad-on medicines give nausea. Hey, while we're at it, why not warts or some other rot. Criminy! You can't win!

Steel

Thomas and Lois went to see Steel Magnolias. Apparently, it was good. Thomas could and should elaborate on it. They went to a local theater and saw this play.

Panic at the disco

Lois discovered her iron was broken.

Another appliance?

No!

Thomas took it over to another outlet -- silence ... heat and it works!

Thomas and Lois didn't want to buy another appliance, though they seem to be dying of some appliance plague.

drinking problem

He just doesn't want to quit and he contends that he's too old to change. Yes, sadly, someone close to me has a drinking problem--namely, my car. He has taken to drinking oil. I checked last night and there were clear signs that he has a drinking problem that I have to deal with.

It might be the death of him someday.

cards

Although Argos is going to start training and "school", I really think he and Sampson write very well, don't you?

Dorothy -- written

So what’s new big guy? Thanks for all the news from Ind. Who is Sissy and Daisy they are so cute. No; we do not want a cat. Did find homes for them, how many are there. Spring has arrived here in the Burg, it looks so pretty. Our neighbor cut the front yard, actually the backyard needed cutting more, oh well never look a gift horse in the mouth. Or some such saying. How are Tom and Lois? How is dear little HONEY BEAR? She is such a pretty doggie. Give her some TLC FOR US. I am still in so much pain, this is awful. Tell everyone one we LOVE them. You take care, we Love you. Aunt Dorothy.

Congratulations on dear Little Honey Bear, she is so sweet, no she is not like Angel, she is just a dear little honey, and her own special self. Do you think that Lois will like her? Hope this finds everyone well. How are your classes? We are ok, still in terrible pain. Got both legs incased now. You take care, and thank you for all the news. Love you. Aunt Dorothy.

Hi dear heart, just a line or two to let you know that we are so glad that you keep us up to date on all the family. Did your burn heal? How are Di, Deb, and Beth? Sounds like Lois is improving by leaps and bounds, Thank goodness for that. We thought spring was here cause we had a heat wave, “no no”, I said, the Magnolia trees are going to bloom, their loaded with buds----------well I was right, big freeze tonight is a comin’. This happens every year, trees get full of buds, then we get a freeze. Uncle Jack took a picture of the three trees just in time. Still in lots of pain, then my legs started swelling, yep new treatment. Going to compression clinic. For a week we had to wrap my leg in about five layers of bandages, that we had to change every day, only allowed to leave off for 30min a day. Then was fitted with a stocking, which will be worn the rest of my life, will start on other leg next. Life is the pits. Well dear boy will end this for today; you take care, study hard, and behave yourself. Hugs and kisses, love you dear heart. Aunt Dorothy.

Hi, Aunt Dorothy here, just a note to let you know we are still here. We love your blog's, very interesting. It is good to get all the news about the Holloways, Freygangs and the Orozoco's and the Love's. We hope all are on the mend, good to hear that Lo getting off some Meds. How is new puppy doing? Guess this will be another Lois dog like Angel? Uncle had his check ups and all is good, good, good, happy day. As for me still in so much pain, now I am going to a compression management place for my legs, worried about clots, will have to wear compression stockings the rest of my life, they are so attractive. Are you official with the postal service, Barney said if you need any help just let him know cause he knows all about this job. Guess that’s all for this time, thank you for keeping us up on everyone. Take care, good luck. LOVE YOU A WHOLE BUNCH. Aunt Dorothy.

another pic of Lois with Sissy

As you can see ... Sissy was ready for play. She didn't really "fetch" the ball, but rather take possession of it.

wild and "chewy"

young, free, she thinks I'm a good thing

she huddles around me... I am her security blanket.
She wanted to play with the neighbor dog and of course the human kids.

She's "bringin' sexy back"

Mystery girl B & W, or "cute" as Dave had mentioned.

Apple core, Baltimore, who's your friend ...
me (Aunt Dorothy)

CSI

Canine Scene Investigators

Yep, detective this definitely was "tasted" by our suspect. Here too are tool marks indicative of teething. Look -- we need to lift these paw marks to match with our suspect. Our perpetrator wasn't very careful about leaving evidence behind ... look at the hair and saliva samples left everywhere, including ...
how did our suspect get up there?

We have evidence she was in the refrigerator ... dyer, washer, freezer, car, van, on all floors, on all fours, under chairs and sofas, on beds, in the duct work?

It's like following Jeffy from Family Circus here. Up the tree?

Can we make an arrest? Clearly she's been here.

Yes, but the only crime was being a puppy, not punishable in our jurisdiction.

Secret had a secret

Now the proverbial cat is out of the bag.

Secret, the young cat (kitten, really) is pregnant.
I'm waiting for the phone call or the DHL truck ... hey, free kitten

just what I always wanted and didn't ask for

Debbie -- I'm not around for long periods of time -- I don't want one, but thanks!
Thomas and Lois don't want one, but they also offer thanks!

I'll look into other possible homes. I can think of one - two, but I'll let you know if you are interested in homes for the to-be kitties.

All the grass is green .... and the clouds went away

Indiana dreamin' on such a Springtime day. That's better than Beach Boys!

Anyway, Jessica has lawn duty today and she is bringing the pooch -- the puppy with no name, yet. She likely has a name by now, but I don't know it.

Anyway ... she's ridin' low to attack the grass for the lovely little puppy to romp in the fresh grass clippings. The puppy will likely roll to smell more natural, au de automanure aka 'smelling like your own ...'. Dogs do that. Anyway, Thomas and Lois have had a fence for a long while, long ago they had pets ... now they have quadraped fur-covered visitors, many of whom are relatives who love to run and chase the local fauna (squirrels and rabbits). A few canines are more adept than others -- preferring and exercising a stealthy hunting approach.

Jessica, still not liking school is getting closer to out. I think next year she can start her cosmotology/beautician schooling while in HS, so that when she graduates, she can just start. She's in for a shock as most places want "more training" all the time. She's not a big fan of school.

The grass is green, but I understand that the water heater -- hauled away yesterday, was rusted inside thoroughly. The plumber -- Quick Joe McGee pulled it out in 20 minutes and let the rusty (not just the color) water dump out in cascades and mini-Niagra falls to the cellar well. I guess I miss some interesting crud at times, don't I!

Waterlogged

Well, Thomas and Lois got a "wonderful" surprise ... the water heater broke and leaked bloody well everywhere. After a couple two or three hours of cleaning up mess -- they surrendered. Tomorrow Thomas gets to call plumber (s) to replace the beast.

Appliances have been dropping like flies around their house.

Happy birthday also came with pictures

cat named Secret

Thunder, God rest his soul

pretzel ... oh, wait, that's Toby

Megan

Megan cheesy!

Debbie with a black ball of wonder and stubbornness. To think thathey found Thunder to be stubborn!

Well, not of my opening anything. I did open an email and found it chock full of pics from Debbie. Thanks Debbie!

Bethy sent me a dog's cleverness!


Lest I not forget, the folks gave me a card with cash -- hey! I can get what I want, THANKS!
Aunt Dorothy and Uncle Jack sent me a card with a wonderful sentiment!

Jennifer sent me an ecard.

Thank you all, very, very much!

puppy who visited

So, there you see ... Lois and the visiting dog, Sissy and jealous Daisy. Sissy escaped from her house; we later found out that the family was having the yard redone and she went adventuring. Sad to note that they weren't too active in finding her. The numbers on her tag were a clue, but ..

the neighborhood number was defunct. The other number was to a man, was "grandpa" who lived just outside of FW. It was my birthday and it was spent trying to track down the puppy's humans. Thank goodness for the internet and the still-free sites to research phone numbers. I found the "grandpa" and he was going to return the dog to the family, after he got her a new tag. She was a gregarious little girl who seemed to favor guys.

We found out that she sleeps with an 8 year-old boy. What a cute little girl. She was something, especially to get Lois out there with her.

Daisy, the next-door neighbor dog wasn't too keen on sharing attention and "treats". End of story, we were out way north and ate out there for lunch.

I never knew that friends of mine were directly behind me in the booth. What a fool I am. I had lox on bagel with capers and sour cream -- a rareity. The folks treated me to lunch -- how very nice.

I got a couple of cards and a load of pictures. Thanks you all for the happy birthday.

I had to work ... it wasn't the best of nights ... oh, well.

Taxi

lacking a "Jim" (Christopher Lloyd) character, we have the stocky dispatcher, Thomas sending himself out to run his grandson around to his rotten job. The grandson got a job and his training shows a shady group pushing junk. He needs the money and has nothing else to do. He was given an "opt out" option to take the money and run. Thomas suggested that he just lump it and do the class. The early morning trek has taken its toll on Thomas. His grandson isn't driving right now (no further details will be disclosed at this time), so Thomas pitches in.

Marcus, many months ago, chose not to pursue this company heavily as there was a notable "shadiness" about them.

How many companies ask you what you drive? I would suggest that most companies merely want to be sure that you have a licence and reliable transportation -- end of story.

improvement

M. R. has recovered some in hospital. She was the one mentioned in my succumb entry. Lois spoke with her, while M. R. was in hospital. I hope that she is mostly recovered by now. What a wicked nasty thing to happen.

I must correct myself as the spots were not cysts, but rather other tissue problems, much like cysts. To some, life isn't fair or very courteous.

bible in hand

Lois is going to bible study again with friends ... that's a great activity! I hope that she has it done.

Father might golf today at a golf dome, that is unless his grandson calls for a ride. The grandson has driving limitations for the time being, so ... he needs a ride to work. I know where he works, but not what he does.

It is a wonder

Short list of nothing

I passed a postal exam, but now what?
I'm going to work on another typically bad weather day -- blah!
It's mid-April and early May I have a test for which I am not sure I am ready.
I got a chance to meet up with friends, I now get to see every other week because of my looney schedule
I did an interview, but the job for which I applied isn't available
I got some bills paid, only find that it was a subsurface layer -- still more layers to go

I'm happy enough, but just not "happy"

Happy Easter to you all!


I got a little spark of light -- I was able to take out the folks for lunch, now that's something!

Newness

Logan is featured on the left, new into the fold of the family. He was well received.

Nameless, cuteness, newness ... this puppy here was shipped FedEx and missed her connecting flight Friday. She is welcomed into her house, where there is much to chew. While she is not Angel, she is who she is. It might be that her name will be "Honey".
Jessica left while Daddy and Uncle Marker talked politics and sweeping changes. Later, she and "Honey" made some sweeping changes in another way. The puppy "helped" by chewing on the tasty tassled broom. Jessica had fun, for sure.

The puupy with Diane ... smiles of sorts ... joy, of course; chew and be free.

The puppy wanted to chew and chase the bunny as she did her brothers and litter mates, but the bunny would not have it -- imagine that. Floppsy was a good boy and held up his own. He chewed on me only minorly and shed like a fiend. He is around 6-7 years now, quite the old man.

Yes, if you hadn't guessed it, the Freygangs have an "Easter" gift -- new Golden Retreiver puppy.

Happy Easter to you and may you remember and live with Christ

if not, then live a life spreading love and peace.

Snow way we are going there!

Thomas and Lois went to lunch today. The plan was to go to a restaurant 15/20 minutes away. When they left -- storm raging, high wind and large flakes. What gives?

They quickly re-routed or turned tail and fled and got to another, different and closer restaurant. They seemed to enjoy it and were, for the first time in a while, warm!

He has a face

International man of mystery, this L W, of Jenny's dating fame, now has a face. Thanks Jenny!

I will insert a different conversation here, "No! You da man!"

Happy Easter!

I arose to see this. He has risen and lives so that you can too. Remember Jesus, if you are Christian, otherwise ... just be peaceful, nice, and love one another.

Work asks questions

So ... when are you moving ... around here?
Is there a reason why you aren't moved yet?
So, is there anything we can do to get you moved up here?


I think I feel a trend here.

On the lighter side of things, I have been asked to "shop" for a few things. Why I'm the one is beyond me, but I don't mind. The other people there have been there longer and are younger, but ... they seem to have no interest in such things.

I have a test in around a month and they will begin "grilling" me on the materials. I was told to make study sheets so that I can walk in with a prepared speech, essentially, over each section. And this testing and verbal meeting is two hours long? Oi! I'm not stressed, but yikes -- I'm not all thrilled to do all that. The good news is that upon successful completion, I get a bump in pay. The "bump" isn't much, as I calculated it to be about 50 cents/hr, but it is something. I can only hope that I can get through the other sections much faster.

Succumb

A friend, having allergies enough for several people, was diagnosed with cysts on her lungs. The message ... brief was all, emptied much hope for her. As far as I know, that's all I know. Avoiding much, evading hostile organisms, still -- her weak body found a way to transform. My heart and I hope others, many others, prayers go out to her.

Frugality based on health, she still bears scars of living, her many efforts perhaps all for naught.

Marcus' dirty work

Ah ... somewhat accidents at work.

Well, you might know that I work in food prep in the course of my work. Well, now on two occasions, I have had the wondrous joy of wearing food that was prepped. I must say, that often, my speed in walking at work has generally sent the material flying away from me, but I got to wear it a few times.

I have also burnt myself several times. There is, undoubtedly, a secret bet as to when I will cut myself at work. There are those at work who feel my "method" with cutting instruments will lead to cutting myself. I am not wickedly fast or using them as "weapons", but precariously hold blades sometimes. I doubt, really, that I will sever a layer of skin. If so, gloves and I get to step away from food. Who wants this bloody food item? No, I mean bloody, not just an English term here.

One recent thing at work that made me laugh ... a nice-looking young woman/girl had her back to the counter. I helped a couple of guys, while their attention wasn't on me, nor my shoulder, nor ribs, but rather her butt. Dashed lines were present, easy to follow. She wasn't impressed when I let her know that her butt was the focus of much attention, unwanted or not.

Lois' pride and joy

Lois was able to work on weeding today. She hadn't been able to do much of anything like that for a while. It was a large, though quieted victory. So, hurrah for Lois, and hurray for the new knees and the energy that comes with it. While full-out gardening is out of the question, plucking and planting here and there is in the realm of possibility.

For Thomas, swinging and clubbing are still yet to be done on a course. The guys all call to the fairway dieties for mercy and for weather where they can walk hours in the heat batting balls. Soon, the response is ... "soon", that and nothing more.

God's humor at work

So ... this guy at work reminds me much, very much, of a brother-in-law. Which brother-in-law you might ask. I will hint:

He listens to talk radio, quotes it, then asks others -- as though they were listening similtaneously with him. Razzle-frazzle-babble-gumble? Uh ... I just don't know guy! This man's wit is quick ... makes little cartoonish "woo-hoo" noises -- funny, as he is really timid as a general rule. Given the chance, I'm sure he'd exhaust your ears with opinions and annecdotes and "long story, making it longer".

Yes, Jim ... somehow you got transplanted, in some small way, to my workplace.

"Ain't actin' shady"

Thomas and Lois went out and got a replacement for the slightly torn shade. Not too bad, eh?

Curtains up for shade

The curtains are up, finally, and Thomas and Lois went out to look for a book, "Mere Christianity" by C. S. Lewis and to buy a lampshade. I don't think the weather will hold out for them, but I could be wrong.

Work award

Unlike martial arts, you don't want greater degrees of burns. This one is a second degree burn.

Spot remover

Lois' spot shrinks every day ... thank God for that!

It came, it stinks, it goes to work

I had to put my money where my mouth was and I bought this one to replace the bad ones at work. DHL delivered it. Either DHL or the company itself reeks of old cigarettes --

puyuck ... pettooee, pew. Thank goodness it goes to work.

Blech!

Remember walking in the sand

As luck would have it, I went out for dinner and a walk with a friend from work. There is a lake nearby, so we walked there.

+ entry title from Aerosmith

Mission: put my money where my mouth is

I mentioned a situation, then I had to solve it. I found a solution, but I had to pay for it, though I'll get re-imbursed for it. Huh. I wonder how often I'll find "solutions".

Y not

Thomas and Lois might, just might, make a habit of going to the YMCA more often in the week. They seem invigorated and livelier when they are done. Being healthier too, as a side benefit, isn't too shabby either.

Got their bags

Thomas and Lois headed off for the YMCA today, after months of absence. As foreboding or as a test of their comittment, a storm raged full mostly of wind -- cursing their travels. Stallwarts as they were, they weathered the storm to make it to the YMCA. There, Lois usually does water aerobics, but with her leg spot (cancer removed), she isn't to be in water for long periods of time until it is better healed. Explain her long showers ...
anyway, Thomas got a chance to go to the golf dome and hit balls. He's aching to really golf, you know ... on a course, with flags, fairways, and all of that stuff there.

story teller, based on fact

I spoke with the manager who is supposed to register me for a class, then generally are 10-3 on the day they are run. This just about puts me out of doing that and going to work. I could, in theory, do the class then drive up and start work from like 4 "ish" to close. Now that, ladies and gentleman, would be a long friggin' day!

I was reading over the book. The "testing", as the manager put it, will be for me to verbally recall the sections, in mostly their entirety answering all of the questions in the book, and then able to verbally answer the panel's other questions. This is for step one of many hurdles. There is a lot to remember, thankfully I don't think some parts are on later tests.

I looked over it all and it appears to me that I'll be telling the "Illiad" and at the end, be open for questions.

Curtains down, trellis up

The curtains came down today to make way for painting. The painting hasn't started.

The trellis in the front was blown down in the Winter. This is the first time that we had a chance to fix it. After a small investment of parts -- up again it is. The thick growth on it, mixed with an old robin's nest didn't help it stay up either. The back was a mess with sticks -- so, we picked up those as well.

The curtains cost $54 to clean. Oi! I guess I'd need to know what the cost is on other things to be cleaned.

Played out

Ah, dear Charlie called me for he had not seen me in a long time.
"... needs a new job", for I work hours that eliminate me from playtime with him.

Charlie wanted to play the 'spinny' "where you do this ... and that" game. Twister, with Keith and myself, Charlie especially. The two dogs didn't really want to be stuck on the sofa. They are, after all, children with thicker hair. They needed to play too.

Marcus got a chance to help Keith, here, to move a sofa in place of another one. Charlie didn't take well to the change. In happier news, they found where they would like to send him for Kindergarten -- a Montesourri school.

I included this in the family blog because my good buddy Charlie always thinks of me.

........

Thomas and Lois went out on Monday to get some things from Menards. They mistakenly left them in the van, but Marcus retrieved them when they remembered. Otherwise, they had an alright day. Lois is tired of being tired all the time, but declines coffee that I could make her -- keeping her lively for hours if need be.

positively work

There's a woman at work who is diabetic. She has to administer shots to herself while at work. She does it in the arm, bruising easily. After I mentioned that Lois does this, but in the abdomen, this woman rebuffed the idea of stomach shots for the same reason -- bruising. At least she's pro-active with it and taking it seriously!

I was asked yet another question about the volumes of stuff I was to read and remember. What does this weigh? Uh ... I don't know. The SATs were simple, these tests, whenever I get them, will be grueling, for sure. I'm not nervous or worried, but there is a fartload of stuff that they want me to have committed to memory.

It was funny, I was "attempting" to direct people at work, but it got busy, always and we ran behind. A shift leader, previously an assistant manager before he left the company then returned, noted the volume of business that we did over projected. We were short-staffed and had our butts handed to us. I mentioned on my personal blog about my disappointment with placement and use of personnel. Sometimes, I wonder what goes on in the heads of people. One manager, in particular, tends to send off people during a fifteen minute lull, only see to business surge like a tsunami. For this reason, I consider him quite a fool regarding staffing. Granted, the one guy he sent home was, well, not imbibed with strong work ethics ... sloth-like speed at times, mixed with tendencies toward chatting-in-lieu-of-working and eating the buffet discards (food pulled off buffet that is okay, not on some one's plate), but still. The kid, who might have been selectively placed (special needs person with some limitations regarding cognition) called me, Speedy Gonzales, for dishes can be done fast -- unlike what he shows.

I got freed 25 minutes early, for lack of business ... they had no choice but to drop people -- they kept only the closers. I drove in the evening setting sun and saw around ten wild deer in different fields. There were four in one field, and a couple in another, etc. I'm assuming they had an easy winter, yet again this year.

Cards, spelled W-I-N

Thomas and Lois hosted cards on Friday with friends. Friends and Thomas and Lois rotate houses where it is held. The boys won two or three in a row, but the girls won big twice; 'smack down'! They all had fun, but the guys can't pull a win for anything. Perhaps next, cheating will be used.

I was asked if I knew some background

on the company ... it would be "good for me to know". Ah, I thought it more like filler, but apparently, I should know more stuff. Fun, fun, fun. I don't mind learning, but some of that is inapplicable. "Goes to motive, your honor". "Very well then, procceed."

Unremarkable journey

This is my 50 mile trek. Thank God, truly, for my tiny fuel efficient car.

This is the town where I work. Actually, there are two towns butted against each other. I work somewhere between the two lakes at the top. If only I got out to see them.

This is where I will likely move for 6 months to cut on my travel time. I am not moving there yet. I'm going to kill some debt first, then worry about it. After training, I think I might be placed near Indy, so ... why get a commitment here when I'm not going to be placed here?

From work, with hope

Attache, complete with work and stuff to read ... much of it due Monday. Read 'em and weep!

Postal

Marcus took a postal exam today. The toughest part of it was, "memorize all of this ..." Although there wasn't much to memorize, there was no clear way for me to do a good job or memorizing it. The rest of the test was okay. I don't know how well I did. I will, apparently find out in 4-6 weeks.

Marcus also got a professional-looking attache with study materials for work. He already read one book and will finsih the other tonight. They are thankfully short books, the "motivational" kind of 'do, succeed, rah, rah, rah'. I'm quite happy they are not sell, sell, sell ... your soul, your house ... stuff that doesn't belong to you... be the salesperson of the millenium.

Thomas

I mentioned that Thomas went to the dermatologist. Well, he had some stuff burnt off of him. Nothing serious. He outright refuses to enter anything into the blog, so ... if things are wrong or inflammatory ... oh, well, what the H-E-double hockey sticks.

Ready for Reddy

Lois returned from the cardiologist today with a good report. My heart rate was a little low, so they may remove one medicine or reduce it. She may also, eventually, get off coumadin. Sweet, doubled.

2 out of 3 ain't bad

"I want you (painted); I need you (painted); but there ain't way in the world I can finish you (this week). Now don't be sad, cuz two out of three ain't bad. Nah, two out of three ain't bad." + The harder parts are coming up, over-filled closet and bookcase of old books.

I have not yet heard whether the curtains were finished and what phenomenal price there is for cleaning.

+ Okay, so it isn't truly Meatloaf, but 3.2 of the walls are finished and the ceiling is done in the larger room -- living room, c/o Thomas

Dermotologist

Thomas went to the dermatologist.

cat and dog living together

The Orozcos have two pets -- a cat and a dog. The dog, a stubborn puppy mutt of tremendous cuteness and softness, found his world shattered with the kitten. According to Lois, the kitten of seven months is in heat and was howling to go out to mate with the males that could smell her. I hope that she gets fixed, as the kitten doesn't need kittens of her own. The house doesn't need thousands of kittens, which would happen.

more visit

While in Indy, Thomas and Lois got a chance to eat with Beth. It went well. I, a third party, am writing this. I hope that Thomas edits this and the previous post to better tell the story. Beth is hoping that her car will last another year -- yes, we all hope for another year. Let's hope it's not $50 here and $100 there.

Better now

Debbie -- recovering from hospital visit. She is doing well, according to Thomas and Lois, and returned home to a house of sickly kids. The family had a series of appliances take nose-dives into hades -- dying. Well, they bought a new washer, dishwater, and another appliance. Hopefully, these new and not "contractor grade" appliance will take a licking and keep on ticking.

I dare say that Debbie having so many heavy items to move, will undoubtedly have trouble. Enough said on that.

Thomas and Lois got a chance to see Blanche and Tony. Tony, Anthony Sr., allowed his natural gray to show, and developed a beard. Blanche had orthoscopic joint surgery. She is walking with pain still. The doctor's stated that she would likely need the knee (s) replaced around two years.

Let us pray and hope that we all have a healthier year!

Marcus was working on the weekend ... as he always does. He was working through the week -- as he always does. His one day off was spent getting a car fixed, being late to a second interview, but having the highlight of meeting up with an old chum. Marcus has now, more interested parties in him -- for whatever reason. So far, no offers, but maybe soon. Marcus would have to consider the earning potential and hours. Marcus' biggest disappointment with his work is smoking everywhere. Bleh! Headache ---nausea, watery eyes.

Debbie

Beth emailed me. Thomas called her. Debbie, at the time of this writing, was okay. She was supposed to be discharged sometime today.

God's speed, willing, love and mercy. Debbie will be home, safe, well and pestered by a cat named Secret, and a stubborn puppy Toby.

The Wait

Hmmm, I'm here in FW and my sister and family are in Indy ... sister having surgery. I don't know squat, so here, I sit.

I don't like waiting and prefer knowledge over ignorance, so I sit ... ignorant, waiting, grotesquely unhappy.

Guns 'N' Roses' "Patience" will not quiet my need to know ... as my mind wanders.
God has a plan and I'm arrogant enough to want to know it. It's on a need to know basis and I don't need to know. That doesn't sit well with me.

Debbie, sister "Doodie" as I called you -- she who had been a placebo brother to me ... may your surgery go well, smoothly, time is not a factor.

and they're off

Thomas and Lois went to Indy (Westfield) to be with the Orozco's during Debbie's surgery. Thomas really helped out with transportation for Marcus' interview and car heck. Anyway ... they packed up, Lois naughtily packing the car, possibly making her back and knees worse. Shame, shame, shame!

Father got his replacement modem. There were doubts ... hints and allegations, but it works. I helped Thomas by crawling under the desk to put on wires ... click, pop, flash. "Like a jackrabbit on a date, I was finished in a flash." + I turned on the computer and fizzz, chirp, chatter ...

regretably AOL ... Thomas had internet and email again
DSL, as Thomas has decided, finishes dial-up ... completely. He'd never go back.

+ Christmas Story

Marcus' busy day

My car doesn't need a $100 fix ... it's more like $300 - $500 at a different auto shop. Here is my tale.

I took the thing to Midas ... it was going to be $100, but no ... nothing so simple or cheap. They called back with $577, then $800 some for "all that we see that's wrong". Finally they stated, "we could do bare minimum for $177, but you'd need work soon after." I called another place, they were going to get a quote for me ... wait, hey time's awastin ' and I have a second interview today people! So, after 30 minutes of waiting, I called them ... computer wasn't showing prices. Finally, the guy guessed at $200. That's cool! Now, I have to drive over to Midas, get my car again, then drop it off, get another car and go to interview.

I wait ... car is on rack, lofted, at Midas. Midas gold touch nothing ... they charge platinum prices. Anyway, after waiting 20 minutes for them to release my car, I drive the bad brakes car to a shop ... there, I drop it off. They guessed that it might be until Thursday until it's done. Thankfully, I have access to another car (Thomas' van).

I am late to my second interview. I expected the guy to flat out turn down my attempts, but he let me come in and did the second interview. I did a personality profile and vocab test. He said that when he crunches the numbers, he'll call me again.

Curse my short run of bad luck, but ...

I did finish the interview, so maybe I should stop criping. Yeah, I'll do that! Thanks God ... always with me, despite my doubts otherwise.

Weekend update

Thomas and Lois went to church on Saturday for a special meeting. They had in attendance, all church members who have been married for 45 years or longer. Bravo! Thomas will finally have to write about this. Thomas will have to write about it, because I was not there.

Lois is still tired, but doctor's visits are on the back burner next week. Thomas and Lois are going to Indy to be with Debbie during her surgery. As she tends, like Thomas, to be a surgical bleeder, it might be a long time. She is there to work on more adhesions. I hope this time the surgery about ends this series of more surgeries..

Thomas got a chance to paint a bit more, but far more importantly -- golf! Lois went with Thomas to Barnes & Noble to buy a couple of books. Lois was seeking a PDR (Physician's Desk Reference). The newest is $95, but some are cheaper. The print is generally tiny, and the internet is more up to date, but Lois doesn't use that. So, they bought a book. Lois also wanted a large print bible. She has one, but there was a debate about it.

Thomas purposed that the print, as large as it was, was large print. Lois contested. I contested on the basis that it was annotated and the notes were in smaller print. I also argued that the book itself didn't have "LARGE PRINT" on it. Thomas copied pages from the book and took them in with him. Upon review, the "Large Print" were labeled only on the paper cover, not the book itself. How stupid is that? He was right, the bible Lois has is Large Print, but it still isn't as large as she'd want it.

She got new glasses that are clear, fixed, and the frames are not bent. She finds them to be a blessing.

In eight days, Thomas goes to the doctor for a check on his ever-itchy back. I believe that they will do nothing, but look and set up another appointment for him. Great.

Thomas has KLUB (engineer's club) on Monday, so Marcus has decided to bring pizza to Lois, so that they can eat. The pizza will have the one item Thomas detests ... anchovies.

As of this writing, Thomas is still not online, as his DSL modem died. He called Verizon and they agreed that it was dead. They are sending another one -- poke, poke, poke ... via tectonic plates or I mean regular postal service, which is terribly slow.

Thomas and Marcus have yet one more big chore for the living room --- the wicked doll cabinet. Two legs with casters came off, so they will have to move the thing -- heavy as it is filled, then carefully place the gluey pegs into position. Joy of joys. I guess, in one respect, it is nice that the legs are from one side, not diagonal of each other.

Marcus turned in lots of applications and resume's before getting where he is right now. Primarily because of the smoking in the area where he works, he would consider leaving this potentially right job for a different one. He had an interview on Friday that went well. He has a second one on Tuesday with the same place. The place is in town -- short drive. The following Thursday, if he gets off, he has a test for yet another job. Marcus figures that the last job, while he has a slim chance of getting it, may be something he wouldn't want anyway, but ... options are always better than no options at all.

Week 3

I was supposed to get study guides for a test. I am to have an oral test on what I know and what I shoudl know for work. There are these little tests at every step so that I have proven my knowledge base to later teach it. My drive tonight was bad halfway. The rain was heavy and there was fog. Nearing the end of my trip the fog lifted and the rain lessened. It got better.

Thomas told me that his modem wasn't working.
I'll buy that (for a dollar)! There was an error code, red flashing power then green power ... repeated. If I had the book, I'd know what it was signaling. The PC found no errors ... wow, surprising. The modem does not work. It was a cheap piece of schinola when he got it. It was itffy after opening. He hopes to get another one tomorrow. He also hopes to paint.

Beth

Beth had this same surgery and it turned out well. I didn't mean to slight Beth at all in my cheering! She has also entered into programming, so maybe that will turn out to something.

Diane

Diane had surgery today. I was at work, of course, but Jim, Jessica, Thomas, Lois were there. The surgery turned out fine and she was not dizzy immediately afterward. She's "fixed" as it were. Yee-ha! Well, now that her hearing and balance are better, we may not want to shout.

Yeah!