It’s a balmy 16 degrees Fahrenheit outside today! Clear blue skies and frosty windows. I love it!
Why is it, when you ask 1 second grader not to whistle, the other 13 take that as their cue to start?
My move is almost complete. I think last night was my final night in that house. I’m sad and relieved all at the same time.
10 days till I go to Town for the Southeast Alaska Region V Basketball Tournament. I can not wait.
I was supposed to take a test on Friday to “see what it looks like” and use it as a starting point of where to start studying. I passed in one shot and am done! I’m now considered “Highly Qualified”. Boy, do I have them fooled!
I was deeply touched last night to find that Michael has saved every single letter I’ve ever written him. I didn’t read any of what I found, I was too much in shock to realize they meant enough to him that he saved them. He’s more sentimental than he lets on.
Today is the first day of the last quarter of the school year.
Did I mention it is nice and cold? Aside from the shocks I receive every time I touch anything that even resembles metal and my frizzy hair, I LOVE IT!
I haven’t been able to dress for work without matching someone else on staff for at least a week. Today I match a substitute teacher.
Okay, enough rambling…
Monday, February 27, 2006
Friday, February 24, 2006
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Getting Closer
We're almost to the point where we can move into the other house. The couple that were living there are finally completely moved out and we've managed to line up a storage space here so we don't have to cart all our belongings to Town.
As anxious as I am to get out of this house, though, we won't be able to until sometime next week. We can't pull it off tomorrow and won't be able to change our utilities and phone until Monday at the earliest so it looks like one more weekend here.
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I wish I could say that the move was the only thing weighing on my mind. People around me are getting sick left and right. Not just minor illnesses...big time problems. Cancers, heart problems, kidney problems...its getting to the point where I'm afraid to answer my phone because every call seems to bring more bad news.
Just in the last 3 weeks:
The trouble with living in a small town is that everything that happens affects everyone. You're either a relative or a friend to just about everyone around you so anything, good or bad, has an effect on you or someone close to you.
I seem to be sensitive to everyone around me. My cousin and his wife weren't speaking today and that was all I could think about all morning. When he showed up at work to apologize to his wife, I don't know who was more relieved, me or her.
People always tell me they like that quality about me. They know I'll be sympathetic, empathetic, or at least be there to listen whenever I'm needed. But it's also that quality that wears me out. I sometimes find myself feeling exhausted because I carry the world on my shoulders and find myself trying to "fix" the situations of others or at the very least hold them up when they can't seem to stay upright on their own.
This is why I've been so quiet here on my blog lately. I'm quick to pick up everyone else's burdens and then tend to keep all that emotion bottled up inside. I put up a strong front but sometimes its all an act.
As anxious as I am to get out of this house, though, we won't be able to until sometime next week. We can't pull it off tomorrow and won't be able to change our utilities and phone until Monday at the earliest so it looks like one more weekend here.
******************
I wish I could say that the move was the only thing weighing on my mind. People around me are getting sick left and right. Not just minor illnesses...big time problems. Cancers, heart problems, kidney problems...its getting to the point where I'm afraid to answer my phone because every call seems to bring more bad news.
Just in the last 3 weeks:
*a very close friend gave birth and had major heart complications
*a dear friend and co-worker had to have a kidney removed because he had cancer
*another dear friend and co-worker had a relapse of her breast cancer and I am still waiting to hear about a suspicious spot they found outside of her lung
*Michael's aunt will be coming home to spend her last days with family
*an aunt of mine will be having heart surgery tomorrow (Friday)
*my brother-in-law had a malignant tumor removed from his neck
The trouble with living in a small town is that everything that happens affects everyone. You're either a relative or a friend to just about everyone around you so anything, good or bad, has an effect on you or someone close to you.
I seem to be sensitive to everyone around me. My cousin and his wife weren't speaking today and that was all I could think about all morning. When he showed up at work to apologize to his wife, I don't know who was more relieved, me or her.
People always tell me they like that quality about me. They know I'll be sympathetic, empathetic, or at least be there to listen whenever I'm needed. But it's also that quality that wears me out. I sometimes find myself feeling exhausted because I carry the world on my shoulders and find myself trying to "fix" the situations of others or at the very least hold them up when they can't seem to stay upright on their own.
This is why I've been so quiet here on my blog lately. I'm quick to pick up everyone else's burdens and then tend to keep all that emotion bottled up inside. I put up a strong front but sometimes its all an act.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
The Bad News Just Keeps Comin'
Yesterday was Space Cadet’s birthday. We had a big turkey dinner at my in-law’s house. In the midst of her opening gifts and all of us sharing and laughing, my mother-in-law’s niece walked in the door.
Michael’s Aunt Lillian is about 83 years old. She had surgery on her kidneys on Monday. They “think” she may have had a stroke before she even left for Anchorage because all of the sudden, it’s extremely hard to understand her when she speaks.
So we all sensed something was wrong when Aunty Lillian’s daughter came through the door. She shared with us the latest news about her mother. The surgery was unsuccessful in correcting any problems she had with her kidneys. Her kidneys are failing. One is functioning at 50% and the other at 25%. Dialysis is not an option. Doing Dialysis would mean she’d have to be up in Anchorage for 2 months. Given her age and the fact that she just outright refuses the treatment, the doctor said the best option is to bring her home and keep her comfortable. There’s nothing they can do.
He said, “We could keep her up here and force the treatment on her, but the chances of it working are slim and she’d die of a broken heart before treatment was complete. If she were my family member, I would want to make her as comfortable as possible during her final days.”
I am not a medical expert…I have no idea how long we’ll have her with us once she returns home. She is completely bed-ridden so the ambulance will have to pick her up at the airport and transport her home. That means the earliest we can get her home is Friday…if the flights out of Anchorage coordinate with the ferry run.
Please keep Michael’s family in your prayers. I know this will be extremely hard on all of them. They are a huge, extremely close family.
Michael’s Aunt Lillian is about 83 years old. She had surgery on her kidneys on Monday. They “think” she may have had a stroke before she even left for Anchorage because all of the sudden, it’s extremely hard to understand her when she speaks.
So we all sensed something was wrong when Aunty Lillian’s daughter came through the door. She shared with us the latest news about her mother. The surgery was unsuccessful in correcting any problems she had with her kidneys. Her kidneys are failing. One is functioning at 50% and the other at 25%. Dialysis is not an option. Doing Dialysis would mean she’d have to be up in Anchorage for 2 months. Given her age and the fact that she just outright refuses the treatment, the doctor said the best option is to bring her home and keep her comfortable. There’s nothing they can do.
He said, “We could keep her up here and force the treatment on her, but the chances of it working are slim and she’d die of a broken heart before treatment was complete. If she were my family member, I would want to make her as comfortable as possible during her final days.”
I am not a medical expert…I have no idea how long we’ll have her with us once she returns home. She is completely bed-ridden so the ambulance will have to pick her up at the airport and transport her home. That means the earliest we can get her home is Friday…if the flights out of Anchorage coordinate with the ferry run.
Please keep Michael’s family in your prayers. I know this will be extremely hard on all of them. They are a huge, extremely close family.
Monday, February 20, 2006
It's About Time
We finally got the call we’ve been waiting for. The people who were living in my dad’s house have finally moved out completely and we have started moving in. My dad’s house is smaller, but at least we don’t have to worry about feuding family members and we can start concentrating on a home of our own.
Lindsey spent the night with us on Saturday. In hopes of discouraging her, I told her that she couldn’t stay unless she helped me pack. She was more than eager to lend a hand and even though I was reluctant at first, we were glad to have her help. She is so strong for her age (and I have the fat lip to prove it!) and I had to work hard to keep up with her.
My sister-in-law’s dog had a puppy; just one lone puppy. Michael has wanted another dog and I was trying to hold out but his sister has already called him and told him he has first dibs on this puppy, a female, if he wants. It will be a small, indoor dog. I’m not sure I’m totally for it just yet, but I think I may be outnumbered this time. As long as she gets house-trained before Michael has to leave for work, I guess it will be okay. I’ve never had a female dog, though…I don’t know if I can handle it should she get pregnant and/or have puppies while Michael is away. We may have to get her fixed ASAP. hehe
I only have 4 days of work this week. Friday is the last day of our 3rd quarter and since my grades are done, I am not required to work. There are high school basketball games this weekend so having the day off will be beneficial when it comes to moving to the other house.
I was thinking I had a trip coming up next week, but it’s actually the week after. March 8th through the 11th I’ll be in Town for the Southeast Regional Basketball Tournament. We made reservations and paid for tickets and the hotel months ago when we thought Michael would be out of town for most of the basketball season. This was assurance that he’d get to see Alexys play during her freshman season of basketball. He’s actually been able to see all of her home games, but we’re still looking forward to the time away.
I have 2 more tests to give this week - one tomorrow and one on Wednesday. Then I’ll be done until May. I can’t believe how fast this school year has gone by. This is Lindsey’s last year in elementary school. She’ll be in junior high next year and Lucione will move on to high school! I’m starting to feel old.
Lindsey spent the night with us on Saturday. In hopes of discouraging her, I told her that she couldn’t stay unless she helped me pack. She was more than eager to lend a hand and even though I was reluctant at first, we were glad to have her help. She is so strong for her age (and I have the fat lip to prove it!) and I had to work hard to keep up with her.
My sister-in-law’s dog had a puppy; just one lone puppy. Michael has wanted another dog and I was trying to hold out but his sister has already called him and told him he has first dibs on this puppy, a female, if he wants. It will be a small, indoor dog. I’m not sure I’m totally for it just yet, but I think I may be outnumbered this time. As long as she gets house-trained before Michael has to leave for work, I guess it will be okay. I’ve never had a female dog, though…I don’t know if I can handle it should she get pregnant and/or have puppies while Michael is away. We may have to get her fixed ASAP. hehe
I only have 4 days of work this week. Friday is the last day of our 3rd quarter and since my grades are done, I am not required to work. There are high school basketball games this weekend so having the day off will be beneficial when it comes to moving to the other house.
I was thinking I had a trip coming up next week, but it’s actually the week after. March 8th through the 11th I’ll be in Town for the Southeast Regional Basketball Tournament. We made reservations and paid for tickets and the hotel months ago when we thought Michael would be out of town for most of the basketball season. This was assurance that he’d get to see Alexys play during her freshman season of basketball. He’s actually been able to see all of her home games, but we’re still looking forward to the time away.
I have 2 more tests to give this week - one tomorrow and one on Wednesday. Then I’ll be done until May. I can’t believe how fast this school year has gone by. This is Lindsey’s last year in elementary school. She’ll be in junior high next year and Lucione will move on to high school! I’m starting to feel old.
Monday, February 13, 2006
I'm Such a Bad Blogger
Too many things to deal with at the moment, I guess. I just can't come up with anything even half-way interesting to write about. I can't even post new pictures because, being in the process of moving, I can't find my camera and haven't downloaded the newest pictures from it yet.
Michael received some not-so-good news on Friday. He's been laid off until April or May. Not exactly the best news, but I have to admit, I'm not upset. We've made it through the toughest part of Winter and will do just fine with my income for a while. Besides, I'm feeling selfish and am just finding myself feeling glad that I'm not going through all of this alone.
I was sick all weekend so haven't checked up on Genon. Thank you all, for your prayers and good thoughts.
Tomorrow another friend of mine, who happens to also be our guidance counselor in the elementary school, is having surgery in Anchorage. She had cancer 12 years ago and beat it. Unfortunately, during her yearly check-up this year, they found reason to be concerned. She's going to have surgery tomorrow in order to do a biopsy, lumpectomy, and check out her lymph nodes. It's in the early stages (only 4mm) so there's reason to be hopeful. She is irreplacable to us as at school so hopfully she'll beat this for a 2nd time.
I'm exhausted...physically from being sick and emotionally from this rollercoaster called Life. Hopefully, I'll soon be back to normal (whatever that is) and back to blogging regularly.
Michael received some not-so-good news on Friday. He's been laid off until April or May. Not exactly the best news, but I have to admit, I'm not upset. We've made it through the toughest part of Winter and will do just fine with my income for a while. Besides, I'm feeling selfish and am just finding myself feeling glad that I'm not going through all of this alone.
I was sick all weekend so haven't checked up on Genon. Thank you all, for your prayers and good thoughts.
Tomorrow another friend of mine, who happens to also be our guidance counselor in the elementary school, is having surgery in Anchorage. She had cancer 12 years ago and beat it. Unfortunately, during her yearly check-up this year, they found reason to be concerned. She's going to have surgery tomorrow in order to do a biopsy, lumpectomy, and check out her lymph nodes. It's in the early stages (only 4mm) so there's reason to be hopeful. She is irreplacable to us as at school so hopfully she'll beat this for a 2nd time.
I'm exhausted...physically from being sick and emotionally from this rollercoaster called Life. Hopefully, I'll soon be back to normal (whatever that is) and back to blogging regularly.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Rambling Thoughts
I was pleasantly surprised this morning when I opened the front door and saw a blue sky. It was actually blue…as in not cloudy and not completely dark. I am so excited that I’m not coming to work in the dark anymore.
My arm is so much better today. I actually rolled around in my sleep last night. I kept waking up in different positions. Since the day I hurt my arm, I had been sleeping on my back (which I hate) all night long. I even brushed my own hair today. It made my arm tired, but didn’t hurt. I’m making progress. :o)
I’m stuffed up again today, though. It never fails. When I get sick first, Michael doesn’t catch it. But when he gets sick first (like this time) I get it, too. It’s so not fair!
I just got a memo in my mailbox telling me we have an inservice next Wednesday. That’s going to put me behind on my testing. Why does something have to happen every time I need to test?! Just once I’d like to go through the process and have it go smoothly. Being that we don’t have an on-site tech guy, I guess I should just be glad they are working this time.
I just got back from science class. We had extra time at the end and had fun reminiscing about past years. I had to tease my nephew Ethan about the day he fell asleep in computer class. He’s little…always has been the shortest in his class. He’s also a clown. He likes to tease and be teased. He used to pretend to sleep in his chair. Every time I went near him he’d close his eyes and pretend to snore. Well, this one day, I noticed he was extra quiet and still. I walked over to him and, of course, his eyes were closed. I whispered his name and he didn’t move. Not even the hint of a smile. That’s when I suspected he was actually asleep because he can’t keep a straight face. “Ethan, are you asleep?” Still nothing, so I have him a little poke in the ribs. He didn’t open his eyes so I went and got his teacher. It took the both of us to wake him up. Once he woke, she took him back to his classroom. He curled up on a bean bag and took a long nap. I’ll have to post a picture of him. He’s a cutie and you can tell just by lookin at him that he’s a clown and a ham.
Speaking of nephews, Craig got a hair cut. It’s really short; shaved, but not bald. Feels kinda like a man’s chin after a few days of not shaving. He walked into computer class yesterday and I almost didn’t recognize him. He must have realized how shocked I was because he said, “Aunty Kerri, I’m here and I’m NOT bald!”
I’ve been following the trial of a Craig teenager accused of plotting to have her mother killed. I can’t decide if I believe her or not. I’m so glad I don’t live in Juneau. I would not have wanted to be on this jury. She could get multiple 99 year sentences if she is found guilty of all her charges.
She confessed to knowing about the plot, but they’re saying it was coerced, that the cops kinda bullied her into a confession. Both of the guys (who were 24 at the time…she was 16) who committed the murder pleaded guilty and agreed to testify against her but the guy who actually killed her, changed his story on the stand and said the girl had not spoken directly to him, that he was taking the other guys word that the girl wanted her mother dead. The entire story is on Court TV’s website, if you want to know more. The jury should begin their deliberations today.
I can’t believe its Wednesday already. I only have 1 computer class today and they aren’t coming because they have to do some testing in their classroom. That means I have nothing to do for the next 2 hours.
Hopefully, I’ll manage to keep busy. I can’t type anymore, though.
My arm is so much better today. I actually rolled around in my sleep last night. I kept waking up in different positions. Since the day I hurt my arm, I had been sleeping on my back (which I hate) all night long. I even brushed my own hair today. It made my arm tired, but didn’t hurt. I’m making progress. :o)
I’m stuffed up again today, though. It never fails. When I get sick first, Michael doesn’t catch it. But when he gets sick first (like this time) I get it, too. It’s so not fair!
I just got a memo in my mailbox telling me we have an inservice next Wednesday. That’s going to put me behind on my testing. Why does something have to happen every time I need to test?! Just once I’d like to go through the process and have it go smoothly. Being that we don’t have an on-site tech guy, I guess I should just be glad they are working this time.
I just got back from science class. We had extra time at the end and had fun reminiscing about past years. I had to tease my nephew Ethan about the day he fell asleep in computer class. He’s little…always has been the shortest in his class. He’s also a clown. He likes to tease and be teased. He used to pretend to sleep in his chair. Every time I went near him he’d close his eyes and pretend to snore. Well, this one day, I noticed he was extra quiet and still. I walked over to him and, of course, his eyes were closed. I whispered his name and he didn’t move. Not even the hint of a smile. That’s when I suspected he was actually asleep because he can’t keep a straight face. “Ethan, are you asleep?” Still nothing, so I have him a little poke in the ribs. He didn’t open his eyes so I went and got his teacher. It took the both of us to wake him up. Once he woke, she took him back to his classroom. He curled up on a bean bag and took a long nap. I’ll have to post a picture of him. He’s a cutie and you can tell just by lookin at him that he’s a clown and a ham.
Speaking of nephews, Craig got a hair cut. It’s really short; shaved, but not bald. Feels kinda like a man’s chin after a few days of not shaving. He walked into computer class yesterday and I almost didn’t recognize him. He must have realized how shocked I was because he said, “Aunty Kerri, I’m here and I’m NOT bald!”
I’ve been following the trial of a Craig teenager accused of plotting to have her mother killed. I can’t decide if I believe her or not. I’m so glad I don’t live in Juneau. I would not have wanted to be on this jury. She could get multiple 99 year sentences if she is found guilty of all her charges.
She confessed to knowing about the plot, but they’re saying it was coerced, that the cops kinda bullied her into a confession. Both of the guys (who were 24 at the time…she was 16) who committed the murder pleaded guilty and agreed to testify against her but the guy who actually killed her, changed his story on the stand and said the girl had not spoken directly to him, that he was taking the other guys word that the girl wanted her mother dead. The entire story is on Court TV’s website, if you want to know more. The jury should begin their deliberations today.
I can’t believe its Wednesday already. I only have 1 computer class today and they aren’t coming because they have to do some testing in their classroom. That means I have nothing to do for the next 2 hours.
Hopefully, I’ll manage to keep busy. I can’t type anymore, though.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Blowin' in the Wind
I’ve been awake since 3:00AM. The wind and rain woke me up. I’m told it was blowing 65mph and gusting well above that. I don’t know for sure, but it was strong enough to shake my house. Add to that, the fact that I am stuffed up today and I am not a happy camper. I can’t miss work for the next 2 weeks so am stuck being half asleep and miserable.
Oh well, complaining won’t fix anything.
Oh well, complaining won’t fix anything.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Getting Better
Slowly but surely, I am getting better. My neck and back are fine now. I have limited use of my arm but it’s getting better. I am not bothered by it too much unless I am too active. I still can’t raise my arm above my head but can at least rest it on my desk so I’m no longer typing one-handed. But that also means I can’t type as long, as the longer I do, the more I ache.
Our belongings are slowly getting packed up in boxes. I am not allowed to help so that is making things go a lot slower. We have a lot more “stuff” then will actually fit in the house so we have to figure out what to do with it all. I’d hate to think we have to haul a bunch of it to Ketchikan to put in storage and I don’t know that I’m ready to give it up in a garage sale.
We went and looked at my dad’s house on Friday night. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that the couple who were staying there did some minor repairs. They also painted all the walls. All white…but still they are painted and it looks nice. They didn’t pay rent so I guess this was their way to thank my dad for allowing them to stay for so long. They’ve got a few more things (like an extra refrigerator) to move out of there before we can move in.
I’m feeling better about moving and am even a little glad. It will be nice to not have the stress that came along with living here. I still don’t like the way things have played out and am extremely disappointed in my uncle, but I couldn’t stand to be in the middle of it all anymore. It’s not my fight to fight. I really shouldn’t have ever been involved at all. We were just doing my mother a favor because she didn’t want the house to stand vacant.
We were busy with basketball this weekend. It was Homecoming weekend and Craig sent both their boys and girls teams. That meant 4 basketball games a night. We were at the gym from 3:00 to about 9:30 PM both Friday and Saturday. Friday night the boys lost. They were behind by as many as 20 and fought their way back up to with in 3. They had some silly fouls right at the end and they lost by 6. They played a lot better on Saturday and won by 15. The girls won both nights; Friday by 19 and Saturday by 30. Alexys scored 19 points on Friday. I don’t know how many she scored on Saturday, but she played another great game. I can’t wait until the tournament next month. They have a chance to do really well. The boys can, too, if they play like they did on Saturday.
Sunday was Super Bowl Sunday. We made french dip sandwiches and homemade french fries. The game was disappointing. I’ve got nothing against the Steelers, but I like to root for the underdog. Seattle had never played in the Super Bowl before and I was hoping they would win. I feel like they should have. The so-called “pass interference” was barely a touch and the Steelers quarterback did not break the plane with the football until after he was down so should not have scored. By my count, the game should have been 17-14 in favor of the Seahawks. Sorry, SQ…hope you enjoyed the game. :o)
Now I’m back at work…and testing again. That means that no matter how sore my arm gets or how much I sneeze (I think I’m getting another cold!) I can’t miss work for at least the next 2 weeks.
I’ve got 2nd grade coming and my shoulder is tired…time to stop typing. Happy Monday to you all.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
I'm Baaa-aaack! (For Now)
I was told I should put up a post so y'all would know I'm still alive.
Please excuse my long absence. Life around here has been crazy and painful. I have not spent a lot of time at my computer and once I've typed this, will get back off because I can only sit here for a short time.
Let's see...where to begin...
When I last posted, I was confused about what to do about the whole house situation. Thanks to my uncle (ha!), I am no longer confused but angry and hurt. Without going into all the gory details, lets just say that he's claiming this house is his, he's convinced the mayor this house is his, and he's not changing his mind.
I can keep living here and pay him rent, or move on. Had I been the one fighting for the house, I would not even consider moving on. I know he's wrong. I totally disagree and am heart-broken over it, but this is not my fight to fight.
We've already started packing. It's taking a lot longer than I had hoped (because I can't help) and I don't even think my uncle knows yet. We'll live in my dad's vacant house until we figure out our next move. At least I know he won't kick me out.
Now, about the pain...
Last week, when Michael drove me to work, I hurt myself getting out of the car. I opened the car door just as a big gust of wind came. The wind grabbed the door and flung it open almost pulling me out of the car.
I didn't let go because I didn't want the door to be damaged. I damaged myself, instead. I've got severely strained muscles in my neck, shoulder, and back as a result.
I haven't worked this week and have been on pain killers that are not really killing anything except my good mood. I can't really move my arm and when I do, have almost no range of motion.
Even now I'm typing with one hand. It takes forever because I'm right-handed and have to do everything with my left. Using my right hand for anything, including typing, makes my shoulder ache.
I didn't want all my posts to be all about my problems, aches, and pains so I took a break. Jayleigh, I'm sorry. I just got your comment today and will check out your new blog soon. Being at the computer is too uncomfortable at the moment.
Y'all take care and I'll be back on once I regain use of my right arm.
Please excuse my long absence. Life around here has been crazy and painful. I have not spent a lot of time at my computer and once I've typed this, will get back off because I can only sit here for a short time.
Let's see...where to begin...
When I last posted, I was confused about what to do about the whole house situation. Thanks to my uncle (ha!), I am no longer confused but angry and hurt. Without going into all the gory details, lets just say that he's claiming this house is his, he's convinced the mayor this house is his, and he's not changing his mind.
I can keep living here and pay him rent, or move on. Had I been the one fighting for the house, I would not even consider moving on. I know he's wrong. I totally disagree and am heart-broken over it, but this is not my fight to fight.
We've already started packing. It's taking a lot longer than I had hoped (because I can't help) and I don't even think my uncle knows yet. We'll live in my dad's vacant house until we figure out our next move. At least I know he won't kick me out.
Now, about the pain...
Last week, when Michael drove me to work, I hurt myself getting out of the car. I opened the car door just as a big gust of wind came. The wind grabbed the door and flung it open almost pulling me out of the car.
I didn't let go because I didn't want the door to be damaged. I damaged myself, instead. I've got severely strained muscles in my neck, shoulder, and back as a result.
I haven't worked this week and have been on pain killers that are not really killing anything except my good mood. I can't really move my arm and when I do, have almost no range of motion.
Even now I'm typing with one hand. It takes forever because I'm right-handed and have to do everything with my left. Using my right hand for anything, including typing, makes my shoulder ache.
I didn't want all my posts to be all about my problems, aches, and pains so I took a break. Jayleigh, I'm sorry. I just got your comment today and will check out your new blog soon. Being at the computer is too uncomfortable at the moment.
Y'all take care and I'll be back on once I regain use of my right arm.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Confused
I’ve spent the last few days trying to figure out what my next move is. A couple weeks ago I received a letter regarding the house in the mail from my uncle. It sounded so bitter and cold that my initial reaction was to pack up and get out. I don’t normally run from confrontation, but this is my family. My mom only had 2 siblings and one has already passed away from cancer. Was this house really worth losing an uncle? At the time I didn’t think it was. I was so upset by his words that I just wanted to wash my hands of the entire situation and not look back.
Then Michael came home. He’s talked to my cousin and was told by him not to move. He said that, legally, our uncle doesn’t have the right to force me to move or even pay rent. Michael’s reluctant to move because of that conversation.
I’ve yet to hear from my mom as to what she wants me to do. The statements in the letter that upset me the most were directed at my mom. How someone can say such hurtful things about his only remaining sister is beyond me. He even inferred that he and my aunt who died loved each other more than, and in a deeper way, than he has or could love my mom.
It’s just one big ugly mess and I’m about to the point where enough is enough. I made the mistake of telling Space Cadet. She, in turn, told my in-laws. Now they’re all upset and concerned. My dad said to just move into his house and remove myself from the middle of this whole situation. As much as I’d like to, I have a hard time just “giving up” and letting my uncle have his way because I know in my heart he is not right. I hate these types of decisions.
I’m trying so hard to enjoy having Michael home but I can’t truly relax because of this whole house issue. I wish I knew how to get moved out and NOT relinquish the house to my uncle.
Then Michael came home. He’s talked to my cousin and was told by him not to move. He said that, legally, our uncle doesn’t have the right to force me to move or even pay rent. Michael’s reluctant to move because of that conversation.
I’ve yet to hear from my mom as to what she wants me to do. The statements in the letter that upset me the most were directed at my mom. How someone can say such hurtful things about his only remaining sister is beyond me. He even inferred that he and my aunt who died loved each other more than, and in a deeper way, than he has or could love my mom.
It’s just one big ugly mess and I’m about to the point where enough is enough. I made the mistake of telling Space Cadet. She, in turn, told my in-laws. Now they’re all upset and concerned. My dad said to just move into his house and remove myself from the middle of this whole situation. As much as I’d like to, I have a hard time just “giving up” and letting my uncle have his way because I know in my heart he is not right. I hate these types of decisions.
I’m trying so hard to enjoy having Michael home but I can’t truly relax because of this whole house issue. I wish I knew how to get moved out and NOT relinquish the house to my uncle.
Friday, January 20, 2006
I'm so Happy!
You can't see me, but I'm dancing in my chair. The weather is gorgeous...30 degrees and clear blue skies. Michael is home...for at least 2 weeks, maybe as long as 2 months! My baby is here (Lucione) and we're having her favorite food for supper (fish and rice). My niece Alexys is a freshman this year...starting 5 on the varsity basketball team...and her first home game is tonight.
It's just a good day. The kids at school behaved really well and were as cute as ever. The new SpEd teacher finally talked to me. She still won't make eye contact, but at least she talked to me. She's been here 2 weeks now and was starting to give me a complex because whenever I entered a room she'd clam up. A few times she even went as far as turning her back to me. Weird.
Michael and the others have a small job to do here. I'm not sure how soon they'll start, but it will last about a week and a half. The project that they have lined up in Fresno is still tied up in red tape. They will stay home until all the paperwork is complete. They were told they could be here 2 or 3 weeks, or as long as 2 or 3 months. That makes me so deliriously happy.
Not just because I like having him home, but because of the fact that I am going to have to move. Well, I don't have to. I just made the decision to. The house I'm living in was my grandmothers. The reason we are living here is because it became my mothers. My uncle, my mom's only brother who happens to live in a lovely 2-story home of his own, has claimed this house as his own. If we don't move out by the end of this month, we have to start paying him rent.
It's not the rent I'm upset about. It's the way my uncle went about getting the house. He has not been nice about it. At all. He's doing all of his communications through written letters, each one sounding more bitter than the last.
I've finally reached the point where I've had enough. My dad's house is empty because he moved into my step-mom's house after they married. We'll live there until we can secure some financing to either build a home of our own, or bring in a modular home. I have a lovely beach front property all ready to put a home on. Once I do, you can all take turns coming to visit me. :o) But you'll have to get in line behind Akeskileut. She's already promised to be my first guest. Connie Marie, maybe you can come along with her. ;o)
Anyway, I'm off to eat supper. Then we'll deliver my dad's birthday present on our way to the game. I hope you all have an absolutely fabulous weekend. I know I will! :o)
It's just a good day. The kids at school behaved really well and were as cute as ever. The new SpEd teacher finally talked to me. She still won't make eye contact, but at least she talked to me. She's been here 2 weeks now and was starting to give me a complex because whenever I entered a room she'd clam up. A few times she even went as far as turning her back to me. Weird.
Michael and the others have a small job to do here. I'm not sure how soon they'll start, but it will last about a week and a half. The project that they have lined up in Fresno is still tied up in red tape. They will stay home until all the paperwork is complete. They were told they could be here 2 or 3 weeks, or as long as 2 or 3 months. That makes me so deliriously happy.
Not just because I like having him home, but because of the fact that I am going to have to move. Well, I don't have to. I just made the decision to. The house I'm living in was my grandmothers. The reason we are living here is because it became my mothers. My uncle, my mom's only brother who happens to live in a lovely 2-story home of his own, has claimed this house as his own. If we don't move out by the end of this month, we have to start paying him rent.
It's not the rent I'm upset about. It's the way my uncle went about getting the house. He has not been nice about it. At all. He's doing all of his communications through written letters, each one sounding more bitter than the last.
I've finally reached the point where I've had enough. My dad's house is empty because he moved into my step-mom's house after they married. We'll live there until we can secure some financing to either build a home of our own, or bring in a modular home. I have a lovely beach front property all ready to put a home on. Once I do, you can all take turns coming to visit me. :o) But you'll have to get in line behind Akeskileut. She's already promised to be my first guest. Connie Marie, maybe you can come along with her. ;o)
Anyway, I'm off to eat supper. Then we'll deliver my dad's birthday present on our way to the game. I hope you all have an absolutely fabulous weekend. I know I will! :o)
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
2 More Days
I’m at work today after taking yesterday off. This lovely cold of mine will not go away. I feel so disconnected from the world around me because I haven’t really been a part of it for over 2 weeks.
It felt strange to walk into Science class this morning. I had no idea what the kids were doing. The classes took their tests and started new units while I was sick. I still can’t talk properly so spent my time in the copy room. When I finished making copies I corrected tests. Fun stuff, I tell ya.
The little league basketball season started this week. Lindsey and Lucione are on the same team this year. This is wonderful news. Normally, I’m at the town hall every Saturday for hours at a time because I have to watch so many different teams play. But now with Alexys in high school, Lucione and Lindsey on the same team, and James not participating, I only HAVE to watch 1 game a week. Of course, I’ll probably watch more. Have to get my $1’s worth, ya know.
Michael will be here on Friday. No stressing about how he’ll get home this time. The travel lady FINALLY woke up and realized that traveling home in one day, although possible, is rather stressful and inconvenient. So they’re actually leaving Fresno tomorrow. They’ll overnight in Seattle and take the first flight to Alaska in the morning. That means, Michael will be home before I even get off work. Akeskileut won’t have to deal with my stress this time. Haha This will also give Michael a chance to visit his big brother. They’re both excited about that. They were planning on staying at his house but I don’t think that’s going to work out.
There’s a chance Michael may be able to stay home until the contracts for their next project are signed. I’m VERY excited about that. This weekend is Alexys’ first home game and next week is the first game for my girls.
Between basketball games, I think I’ll be packing and moving. More on that later. For now I’ve got to a 5th grade class in here for computers.
It felt strange to walk into Science class this morning. I had no idea what the kids were doing. The classes took their tests and started new units while I was sick. I still can’t talk properly so spent my time in the copy room. When I finished making copies I corrected tests. Fun stuff, I tell ya.
The little league basketball season started this week. Lindsey and Lucione are on the same team this year. This is wonderful news. Normally, I’m at the town hall every Saturday for hours at a time because I have to watch so many different teams play. But now with Alexys in high school, Lucione and Lindsey on the same team, and James not participating, I only HAVE to watch 1 game a week. Of course, I’ll probably watch more. Have to get my $1’s worth, ya know.
Michael will be here on Friday. No stressing about how he’ll get home this time. The travel lady FINALLY woke up and realized that traveling home in one day, although possible, is rather stressful and inconvenient. So they’re actually leaving Fresno tomorrow. They’ll overnight in Seattle and take the first flight to Alaska in the morning. That means, Michael will be home before I even get off work. Akeskileut won’t have to deal with my stress this time. Haha This will also give Michael a chance to visit his big brother. They’re both excited about that. They were planning on staying at his house but I don’t think that’s going to work out.
There’s a chance Michael may be able to stay home until the contracts for their next project are signed. I’m VERY excited about that. This weekend is Alexys’ first home game and next week is the first game for my girls.
Between basketball games, I think I’ll be packing and moving. More on that later. For now I’ve got to a 5th grade class in here for computers.
Monday, January 16, 2006
I'm a Copy-Cat
I saw this on Fizzy's blog and thought I'd see what my birth date said about me.
The mind of an artist? Hmmm...most definitely haven't developed that yet. I have never felt artistic. Not unless you call music art...and even then I totally doubt myself.
I never feel like I fit in...anywhere. I tend to drift to the corners of whatever room I find myself in.
This says my strength is my vivid imagination. That can go both ways. It is also my vivid imagination that causes me to wonder whether something terrible has happened to Michael when he doesn't answer the phone at a predetermined time.
The fear of failure, though, that's dead on. The fear of failure stops or delays me from doing a lot of things. I know its silly, but I can't stop myself from being afraid.
I'm not sure what a power color is...but I know that when I wear coral I receive a lot of compliments. I always thought that was strange because I don't even particularly like that color.
Anyway...what does your birth date say about YOU?
| Your Birthdate: August 29 |
 You have the mind of an artist, even if you haven't developed the talent yet. Expressive and aware, you enjoy finding new ways to share your feelings. You often feel like you don't fit in - especially in traditional environments. You have big dreams. The problem is putting those dreams into action. Your strength: Your vivid imagination Your weakness: Fear of failure Your power color: Coral Your power symbol: Oval Your power month: November |
The mind of an artist? Hmmm...most definitely haven't developed that yet. I have never felt artistic. Not unless you call music art...and even then I totally doubt myself.
I never feel like I fit in...anywhere. I tend to drift to the corners of whatever room I find myself in.
This says my strength is my vivid imagination. That can go both ways. It is also my vivid imagination that causes me to wonder whether something terrible has happened to Michael when he doesn't answer the phone at a predetermined time.
The fear of failure, though, that's dead on. The fear of failure stops or delays me from doing a lot of things. I know its silly, but I can't stop myself from being afraid.
I'm not sure what a power color is...but I know that when I wear coral I receive a lot of compliments. I always thought that was strange because I don't even particularly like that color.
Anyway...what does your birth date say about YOU?
Saturday, January 14, 2006
I'm Not Superstitious. BUT....
Yesterday was a very crazy day.
I woke up extra early and could not go back to sleep. I puttered around the house, actually my bedroom because the smell is back, for over an hour waiting for the water to heat up enough for me to take a shower.
I showered, dressed, got my lunch ready, read a couple blogs, and with 10 minutes before I had to leave I realized I forgot to eat breakfast! What? Who forgets to eat? I had instant Cream of Wheat, thank goodness. I inhaled a bowl and headed out the door.
I got to work and realized that it was Friday the 13th. I didn't think anything of it. It's just another day. I've never been superstitious. The rest of the school day seemed to be going okay.
About half-way through the day, I found out that both the boys and girls basketball teams were traveling to Craig this weekend so I asked Space Cadet what she was going to do with her free weekend. She hadn't made any plans and I said, half joking, "I have a full tank of gas. We should cruise in my truck." We left it at that because I had to go to Science.
Then it was time to leave. I had bills to pay, but being the crazy community we are, the bank closes at 1PM and the cashier's window at the municipal building closes at 3PM. I don't get off until 3:30 so have to mail my payments.
I started to walk out the door and realized I didn't bring my wallet. Space Cadet stopped me and asked if I needed a ride. I said, "Only if you're willing to stop at my house on the way to the post office because I need stamps and forgot my wallet." She agreed and we headed to her car.
I got close to her car and said, "Hey. Your lights are on." She had just brought a visiting therapist to the airplane less than an hour before that so we figured it would be okay.
No such luck. Her car wouldn't start. We headed back to the building and passed the principal on our way to the phone. "What's the matter? Battery dead?"
"Yeah, I left the lights on."
"I saw that. Your wipers, too. Your engine wasn't running? You better call a tow truck!" He laughed, shook his head, and walked off. Nothing surprises him anymore when it comes to me and Space Cadet. haha
We tried to call her husband, who happens to own the only tow truck in town, but he didn't answer the phone. I suggested we get my truck but changed my mind rather quickly when I realized I'd have to drive it home and I hate driving our big tank. We spotted another teacher leaving and Space Cadet hollered at her asking if she had jumper cables. She did, and came over to our side of the building to help us out.
So there we were, 3 women, looking under 2 hoods and crossing our fingers that we were doing things right. Space Cadet asked, "This is Negative, right?"
"I've never done this before, but I'm guessing that N-E-G means Negative," I said sarcastically.
We must have connected things right because the car started. We thanked the other teacher and we all went on our merry ways.
Once we had taken care of our business at the post office and took a little short ride to make sure her car would keep running, I was dropped off at home. I cooked dinner and sat at the computer to kill some time.
Around 7:00, Space Cadet marched through my front door. "Are you ready?" I didn't know until then that she had taken my suggestion seriously.
"Yeah, I guess. Let me call Michael first so he doesn't worry if he calls and I don't answer." The last time I wasn't home to answer his call he called the entire family asking where I was. haha Anyway, she grabbed the keys and went out to start the truck.
She came back in and said, "It's dead. It won't start."
I thought she was kidding me after our little episode earlier that afternoon. "Are you serious? How could it be?"
"I don't know but it won't turn over. It's deader than a doornail."
I was still on the phone with Michael. He said to call Michael Richard and have him jump the truck using my in-law's Jeep. We called for him but he wasn't home. Space Cadet said, "We've already done it once today. Shall I go get the Jeep and we'll do it ourselves?"
When she got back with the Jeep, we had to leave the cars connected for about 10 minutes before the truck could draw enough power to start. We couldn't figure out how to keep the Jeep's hood open so I had to stand there holding it open the entire time...in the rain. We finally got it started, left it running, and took a couple trips around the block with the Jeep to make sure it was back to a full charge before it got turned off.
We got in the truck somewhere around 7:45. I could not get Space Cadet to stop driving until Midnight. Even then she only gave up because Lucione had just left a dance and she was worried that her husband might have locked the house and Lucione didn't have a key with her.
So we rode around for over 4 hours last night. We couldn't stop laughing about how we had to jump both of our cars on the same day and we did it both times all by ourselves.
I'm normally not superstitious...but I'm not so sure now. :o)
I woke up extra early and could not go back to sleep. I puttered around the house, actually my bedroom because the smell is back, for over an hour waiting for the water to heat up enough for me to take a shower.
I showered, dressed, got my lunch ready, read a couple blogs, and with 10 minutes before I had to leave I realized I forgot to eat breakfast! What? Who forgets to eat? I had instant Cream of Wheat, thank goodness. I inhaled a bowl and headed out the door.
I got to work and realized that it was Friday the 13th. I didn't think anything of it. It's just another day. I've never been superstitious. The rest of the school day seemed to be going okay.
About half-way through the day, I found out that both the boys and girls basketball teams were traveling to Craig this weekend so I asked Space Cadet what she was going to do with her free weekend. She hadn't made any plans and I said, half joking, "I have a full tank of gas. We should cruise in my truck." We left it at that because I had to go to Science.
Then it was time to leave. I had bills to pay, but being the crazy community we are, the bank closes at 1PM and the cashier's window at the municipal building closes at 3PM. I don't get off until 3:30 so have to mail my payments.
I started to walk out the door and realized I didn't bring my wallet. Space Cadet stopped me and asked if I needed a ride. I said, "Only if you're willing to stop at my house on the way to the post office because I need stamps and forgot my wallet." She agreed and we headed to her car.
I got close to her car and said, "Hey. Your lights are on." She had just brought a visiting therapist to the airplane less than an hour before that so we figured it would be okay.
No such luck. Her car wouldn't start. We headed back to the building and passed the principal on our way to the phone. "What's the matter? Battery dead?"
"Yeah, I left the lights on."
"I saw that. Your wipers, too. Your engine wasn't running? You better call a tow truck!" He laughed, shook his head, and walked off. Nothing surprises him anymore when it comes to me and Space Cadet. haha
We tried to call her husband, who happens to own the only tow truck in town, but he didn't answer the phone. I suggested we get my truck but changed my mind rather quickly when I realized I'd have to drive it home and I hate driving our big tank. We spotted another teacher leaving and Space Cadet hollered at her asking if she had jumper cables. She did, and came over to our side of the building to help us out.
So there we were, 3 women, looking under 2 hoods and crossing our fingers that we were doing things right. Space Cadet asked, "This is Negative, right?"
"I've never done this before, but I'm guessing that N-E-G means Negative," I said sarcastically.
We must have connected things right because the car started. We thanked the other teacher and we all went on our merry ways.
Once we had taken care of our business at the post office and took a little short ride to make sure her car would keep running, I was dropped off at home. I cooked dinner and sat at the computer to kill some time.
Around 7:00, Space Cadet marched through my front door. "Are you ready?" I didn't know until then that she had taken my suggestion seriously.
"Yeah, I guess. Let me call Michael first so he doesn't worry if he calls and I don't answer." The last time I wasn't home to answer his call he called the entire family asking where I was. haha Anyway, she grabbed the keys and went out to start the truck.
She came back in and said, "It's dead. It won't start."
I thought she was kidding me after our little episode earlier that afternoon. "Are you serious? How could it be?"
"I don't know but it won't turn over. It's deader than a doornail."
I was still on the phone with Michael. He said to call Michael Richard and have him jump the truck using my in-law's Jeep. We called for him but he wasn't home. Space Cadet said, "We've already done it once today. Shall I go get the Jeep and we'll do it ourselves?"
When she got back with the Jeep, we had to leave the cars connected for about 10 minutes before the truck could draw enough power to start. We couldn't figure out how to keep the Jeep's hood open so I had to stand there holding it open the entire time...in the rain. We finally got it started, left it running, and took a couple trips around the block with the Jeep to make sure it was back to a full charge before it got turned off.
We got in the truck somewhere around 7:45. I could not get Space Cadet to stop driving until Midnight. Even then she only gave up because Lucione had just left a dance and she was worried that her husband might have locked the house and Lucione didn't have a key with her.
So we rode around for over 4 hours last night. We couldn't stop laughing about how we had to jump both of our cars on the same day and we did it both times all by ourselves.
I'm normally not superstitious...but I'm not so sure now. :o)
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Oh, What a Beautiful Morning!
I don't know why I haven't shared these sooner. I took these while in town over Christmas break. This was what I woke up to. What a view, eh?
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Time to Catch Up
I haven't had time to post the past few days. After being busy with basketball games and family dinners all weekend, I woke up with a head cold on Monday. I managed to make it through the day but haven't gone back to work since.
Steve came and worked on my stove Monday after school. He cleaned it and said that it should help the smell go away because he couldn't find any place where it was leaking. I can't tell if the smell is gone because I've either gotten used to it, or my cold is just bad enough that I'm not capable of smelling. Either way, it's not bothering me at the moment.
Yesterday my niece turned 21. I missed her dinner because I was in a cold medicine daze. I went to bed at 3:00 and didn't get back up until 6PM. Slept through the entire dinner. Oh, well.
I think I'll go back to work tomorrow just to get out of the house. Besides that, when Michael knows I'm home, he calls me all the time. If I don't go back to work he's going to run out of minutes.
Nine more days.
Steve came and worked on my stove Monday after school. He cleaned it and said that it should help the smell go away because he couldn't find any place where it was leaking. I can't tell if the smell is gone because I've either gotten used to it, or my cold is just bad enough that I'm not capable of smelling. Either way, it's not bothering me at the moment.
Yesterday my niece turned 21. I missed her dinner because I was in a cold medicine daze. I went to bed at 3:00 and didn't get back up until 6PM. Slept through the entire dinner. Oh, well.
I think I'll go back to work tomorrow just to get out of the house. Besides that, when Michael knows I'm home, he calls me all the time. If I don't go back to work he's going to run out of minutes.
Nine more days.
Sunday, January 08, 2006
We're All a Bunch of Weirdoes
Tee tagged me with this meme:
"The first player of this game starts with the topic five weird habits of yourself and people who get tagged need to write an entry about their five weird habits as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next five people to be tagged and link to their web journals."
I had a hard time with this one. Not because I don't have weird habits, but because I couldn't think of 5 that were not extremely weird and totally embarrassing! haha I can't believe I'm doing this...
1. If I tap my fingers to a song, I can’t stop tapping until the last tap ends with my last finger. Even if it means singing the song’s chorus or verse all over again.
2. I don’t like others to see my feet. There’s nothing wrong with them…I just don’t like showing them. I always wear socks. If I sleep without socks, I don’t take them off until I’m sitting on the bed and ready to cover up with the blankets. Even when I’m alone.
3. I don’t ever let anyone make a sandwich for me because I don’t like dry bread. When I eat a sandwich, the entire bread has to be covered. If it’s mayonnaise, it’s a thin layer, but it has to go all the way to the edge. If it’s something like PB&J, same thing…both the peanut butter and jelly have to go all the way to the edge of the bread.
4. I am obsessive about putting lotion on my hands. I probably put it on at least 10 times a day, especially on a work day. If my hands get wet for any reason (washing dishes, washing my hands, even touching a wet doorknob to enter a building) I have to immediately put lotion on. If I can’t, it drives me nuts.
5. I always drink my soda with a straw because I can’t stand having soda on the rim of my can and don’t like the sound it makes when I have to sip it off.
The rules say I'm supposed to tag 5 others and link to them here. I don't even know if I have 5 regular readers anymore and at least 3 of those on my blogroll have already completed this meme. I'm going to cop out on the tagging and say, "If you feel inclined to participate, let me know in comments and I'll link you here."
Go check out Fizzy's answers!
"The first player of this game starts with the topic five weird habits of yourself and people who get tagged need to write an entry about their five weird habits as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next five people to be tagged and link to their web journals."
I had a hard time with this one. Not because I don't have weird habits, but because I couldn't think of 5 that were not extremely weird and totally embarrassing! haha I can't believe I'm doing this...
1. If I tap my fingers to a song, I can’t stop tapping until the last tap ends with my last finger. Even if it means singing the song’s chorus or verse all over again.
2. I don’t like others to see my feet. There’s nothing wrong with them…I just don’t like showing them. I always wear socks. If I sleep without socks, I don’t take them off until I’m sitting on the bed and ready to cover up with the blankets. Even when I’m alone.
3. I don’t ever let anyone make a sandwich for me because I don’t like dry bread. When I eat a sandwich, the entire bread has to be covered. If it’s mayonnaise, it’s a thin layer, but it has to go all the way to the edge. If it’s something like PB&J, same thing…both the peanut butter and jelly have to go all the way to the edge of the bread.
4. I am obsessive about putting lotion on my hands. I probably put it on at least 10 times a day, especially on a work day. If my hands get wet for any reason (washing dishes, washing my hands, even touching a wet doorknob to enter a building) I have to immediately put lotion on. If I can’t, it drives me nuts.
5. I always drink my soda with a straw because I can’t stand having soda on the rim of my can and don’t like the sound it makes when I have to sip it off.
The rules say I'm supposed to tag 5 others and link to them here. I don't even know if I have 5 regular readers anymore and at least 3 of those on my blogroll have already completed this meme. I'm going to cop out on the tagging and say, "If you feel inclined to participate, let me know in comments and I'll link you here."
Go check out Fizzy's answers!
Friday, January 06, 2006
What's That Smell?
It’s been a while since I’ve posted but this time I have a good excuse. I’ve had to barricade myself in my bedroom since Tuesday because the rest of my house gives me a headache.
Let me try and explain. Our house is heated by a laser Toyo stove. It is fueled by diesel which is stored in a drum outside the house. The house sits fairly high so the drum is up on a pedestal of sorts to allow the fuel to flow smoothly from the drum to the stove.
This pedestal, for lack of a better word, was in dire need of repair. So Michael waited until the DAY BEFORE HE LEFT to remove the drum, repair the pedestal, and put the drum back.
He left on the plane while I was at work. When I returned home, the house reeked of diesel. I thought maybe it was because the drum had been removed and replaced. Maybe there was some fuel in the pipe that needed to be “burned off”. I waited till the next morning and it was worse.
I called my dad. He said that maybe the stove was surging because the drum didn’t have enough fuel in it. I ordered fuel. I asked them to deliver after I got home from work. That was on Wednesday. I rushed home and they never did come. I rushed home again yesterday. They still haven’t come.
The weather has been awful so I can’t go out and check the fuel level to see if they came while I was working. The stick we use to test the level is soaked. I’ll call the fuel company today and see what’s up.
In the mean time, I’ve had to spend all my time in my bedroom. The door has been closed the entire time so I can’t smell the fumes in there. I leave the room in short bursts because if I stay in the living room too long, I get light-headed and/or get a headache.
I turned the stove off last night and the smell seems to have lessened a bit. I’m hoping that if I keep it off, it will eventually dissipate. If so, I just won’t use the stove until Michael comes back. I have small electric heaters and tons of sweaters I can use if I need to.
I wish he had taken care of the drum when he first got home, or at least between Christmas and New Years. That would have given him time to figure out what went wrong before he left. Nobody I’ve asked seems to know what’s wrong or how to correct it. This is probably the one time you’ll ever hear me say this (or see my type it, as the case may be), I am SO glad it is not freezing cold outside.
Let me try and explain. Our house is heated by a laser Toyo stove. It is fueled by diesel which is stored in a drum outside the house. The house sits fairly high so the drum is up on a pedestal of sorts to allow the fuel to flow smoothly from the drum to the stove.
This pedestal, for lack of a better word, was in dire need of repair. So Michael waited until the DAY BEFORE HE LEFT to remove the drum, repair the pedestal, and put the drum back.
He left on the plane while I was at work. When I returned home, the house reeked of diesel. I thought maybe it was because the drum had been removed and replaced. Maybe there was some fuel in the pipe that needed to be “burned off”. I waited till the next morning and it was worse.
I called my dad. He said that maybe the stove was surging because the drum didn’t have enough fuel in it. I ordered fuel. I asked them to deliver after I got home from work. That was on Wednesday. I rushed home and they never did come. I rushed home again yesterday. They still haven’t come.
The weather has been awful so I can’t go out and check the fuel level to see if they came while I was working. The stick we use to test the level is soaked. I’ll call the fuel company today and see what’s up.
In the mean time, I’ve had to spend all my time in my bedroom. The door has been closed the entire time so I can’t smell the fumes in there. I leave the room in short bursts because if I stay in the living room too long, I get light-headed and/or get a headache.
I turned the stove off last night and the smell seems to have lessened a bit. I’m hoping that if I keep it off, it will eventually dissipate. If so, I just won’t use the stove until Michael comes back. I have small electric heaters and tons of sweaters I can use if I need to.
I wish he had taken care of the drum when he first got home, or at least between Christmas and New Years. That would have given him time to figure out what went wrong before he left. Nobody I’ve asked seems to know what’s wrong or how to correct it. This is probably the one time you’ll ever hear me say this (or see my type it, as the case may be), I am SO glad it is not freezing cold outside.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Back to the Ol' Grindstone
I hope that everyone’s year is off to a good start. Michael and I didn’t do a whole lot to celebrate the New Year. The girls spent the night with us on the 30th. The next day, we had quesadillas for dinner and hot fudge brownie sundaes for dessert. Then we brought them home to get ready for the Lock-In. Every year the Boys and Girls Club sponsors an over-night party for the kids or anyone else wanting to have a safe, drug-free New Year’s Eve. They have games, snacks, and let them dance the night away. Michael and I have never gone. This year, wee went for a drive and listened to our Sirius radio. I found some places where my cell phone will actually work. I tried to call my mom but she didn’t answer so I called Akeskileut, instead! I’ve called her twice recently and both times someone else has answered her phone. This time, her daughter answered and when I asked to speak to her mother, she asked who was calling. I didn’t answer and was hoping she’d just hand the phone over so it would be a surprise. That’s exactly what she did. :o) When Akeskileut answered, I said “Happy New Year!” She said, “Happy New Year to you, too. Who’s calling?” I didn’t tell her. All I could do was laugh. Once I did, she screamed, “Kerri!” haha We had a short, but nice visit.
After that, we went home for a little while and then over to Michael’s parents’ house. We sat there until almost 1AM. This has become a ritual for us and I think his parents look forward to it. They were quick to offer wine but we declined.
School started up again today. I didn’t really feel prepared after having 2 weeks off, but in a way, I’m glad it did. Michael leaves today and being here at work is helping keep my mind off of the fact that I’ll be returning home to an empty house. My only consolation is that this trip is shorter than the last. He’ll be back on the 20th for the weekend.
Meanwhile, there are plenty of things to keep me busy. We have high school basketball games this weekend and it will be the first appearance of the new cheerleading squad. My niece (Lucione and Lindsey’s older sister) will be turning 21 next week. And I’ve got my dad’s birthday to prepare for.
My first computer class is due to show up in about 5 minutes.
After that, we went home for a little while and then over to Michael’s parents’ house. We sat there until almost 1AM. This has become a ritual for us and I think his parents look forward to it. They were quick to offer wine but we declined.
School started up again today. I didn’t really feel prepared after having 2 weeks off, but in a way, I’m glad it did. Michael leaves today and being here at work is helping keep my mind off of the fact that I’ll be returning home to an empty house. My only consolation is that this trip is shorter than the last. He’ll be back on the 20th for the weekend.
Meanwhile, there are plenty of things to keep me busy. We have high school basketball games this weekend and it will be the first appearance of the new cheerleading squad. My niece (Lucione and Lindsey’s older sister) will be turning 21 next week. And I’ve got my dad’s birthday to prepare for.
My first computer class is due to show up in about 5 minutes.
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