Monday, I had a heart catheter. The reason was that it is a requirement for the U of L Transplant Team. Last time, I had a really bad experience. It was so bad, this time the same doctor told me the story of my own procedure as an example of how bad they can be. The nurse said, "I'm going to give you something in your IV", then she said, "I'm going to roll you over, let me do all the work", and she put me on the gurney and I went to recovery. I remembered nothing. The pipes are all clear and in the same shape as 9 years ago.
That's the "A" part; now for the "Z". Rob, as I'm sure I mentioned before, had a one man show in Paris October 23rd. He also has work in Paris, Palm Beach, and New York. In the week before the Paris show, the New York gallery sold three paintings; the Paris show sold four, and today, the New York gallery sold another. This month has been a good one for Rob and the student loan people.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Facing the big one
My last test for the transplant team is Monday morning. I hate the heart catheter, as I had a really bad experience with the last one. I've taken all the tests [after Monday] and now it is in the hands of the team. If I qualify, then the question is, "Will my sister qualify?" Even if she doesn't, there is always the cadaver list. The odds are a little lower [9% after three years] and you can't plan for it, but it has its good points. Zu is back and I, at least, am having trouble adjusting to there not being a big, pending event in our lives. For a long while, we were getting ready for the trip; then taking the trip, and now its over. I read about Mitch today; I think it is a little rash to tell the President, publicly, that your top priority is to see that he does not have another term. On the other hand, I resent having the Dems lecture us about what the mid terms mean.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
9 days without
I have been a bachelor for 9 days while my entire immediate family has been in Paris. Rob's show opened last Saturday and was a "success". It took several days before anyone told me what that meant. It's hard to tell people what its like to be without your companion of 47 years; it is a frightening proposition. On a happier note, she is coming back tonight and I can't wait.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Home Alone
The family left yesterday to go to New Jersey to spend the night at Rob and Cassies'. Today, Amanda and Zu went into NYC to the gallery, where Rob and Cassie joined them on a shuttle ride to JFK. Right now, they are in the air to Paris. Rob's show opens Saturday, and the rest of the family are going to try to enjoy Paris while he hangs the show. You'd think it would be easy to enjoy Paris, but the French unions are rioting in the streets. Seems the government, in order to save the national finances, wants to raise the FUTURE retirement age to 62.
In addition the regular cast -Zu, Amanda, Rob, and Cassie],Cassie's parents, and two friends from Marywood are going over.
The first thing Zu did when she got to Rob's place was to unpack and dump a whole suitcase. You are supposed to pack, then unpack and take some things out: she packed.
I am facing being alone for 9 days. I thought the time would zip by, but time seems to stretch out without her.
In addition the regular cast -Zu, Amanda, Rob, and Cassie],Cassie's parents, and two friends from Marywood are going over.
The first thing Zu did when she got to Rob's place was to unpack and dump a whole suitcase. You are supposed to pack, then unpack and take some things out: she packed.
I am facing being alone for 9 days. I thought the time would zip by, but time seems to stretch out without her.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Went yesterday for my initial consultation with the U of L Transplant Team. I answered pages of questions, gave 6 vials of blood, and had two physical exams.. Today, after dialysis, I arranged for three vaccines, a dental exam, and started scheduling a heart catheter,chest x-ray, and a colonscopy The nurse took me through every step and possible complication. Scary proposition.
Friday, October 1, 2010
PRP, Class of '70
I went to a class reunion, the 40th reunion of PRP. They were the first class I was with, beginning to end. I started after the beginning of the year in 1965, but this was my first graduating class. I remembered names but not always faces. We met at Mike Linnig's with about 75 in attendance. Nice group.
The scary, or sobering, thing about the reunion is that many of these "kids" are now grandparents and retired. My own 50th reunion is approaching next year and I realized that I am only 10 years older than the Class of '70. At the time, they seemed so young and I so old; now, we are all old.
My brother was "insulted" when a student called him "Mr. Hay" and he had to point to me and correct them.
It was nice to hear about their careers, grand children, and adventures. When old people gather, they often compare illnesses and we did that, too.
One or two reminded me of some interaction we had and it was nice to hear that I actually did something right or at least they remembered it as right.
The class meets tomorrow night for the formal reunion; can't make it but it was nice sharing this reunion gathering.
The scary, or sobering, thing about the reunion is that many of these "kids" are now grandparents and retired. My own 50th reunion is approaching next year and I realized that I am only 10 years older than the Class of '70. At the time, they seemed so young and I so old; now, we are all old.
My brother was "insulted" when a student called him "Mr. Hay" and he had to point to me and correct them.
It was nice to hear about their careers, grand children, and adventures. When old people gather, they often compare illnesses and we did that, too.
One or two reminded me of some interaction we had and it was nice to hear that I actually did something right or at least they remembered it as right.
The class meets tomorrow night for the formal reunion; can't make it but it was nice sharing this reunion gathering.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Anticipation
Rob called last night and he and Zu went through details for the Paris trip. They are going to have a ball. Less than three weeks to go and they are getting to the nitty-gritty about times and places. With so many going[there will be 8, at least] , I fear a clash of ideas and locations pending. They will work it out.
Yesterday was "date day" with Susan and Paul [lunch and a movie] and a trip to Bardstown to have supper at Neil's church. This has gotten to be a routine It's a nice drive to Bardstown and we enjoy that as much as the food.
Yesterday was "date day" with Susan and Paul [lunch and a movie] and a trip to Bardstown to have supper at Neil's church. This has gotten to be a routine It's a nice drive to Bardstown and we enjoy that as much as the food.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
First real fall day
Good day. After my morning with the vampire nurses, we drove out to Spenser County for Susan and Paul's yard sale. We visited Shannon's new place [I wonder if she would adopt me] and then to the Pie Kitchen. The weather was wonderful and our drive was leisurely. Zu drives as much as I do, and both driving and riding was pleasurable. We went shopping this evening for luggage as the TSA wrecked our checked luggage last trip to NYC, There is a lot of choice. Zu has three weeks or so before she leaves; she and Amanda are going to Paris to attend the opening of Rob's one man show. They will be gone a week or so,
It is amazing how much time slows and your energy rises when the weather cooperates.
It is amazing how much time slows and your energy rises when the weather cooperates.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Changing blogs
I spent so much time between posts that the blog changed management and I forgot my pass word. Tried everything, but it would not come to me. Another complication was that I no longer had access to the e mail address listed. So, I'm starting over. I have copied all of my past blogs to the new one.
My latest new of any interest [at least, interesting to me] is that i have been contacted by the U of L Transplant team for an evaluation. It is still three weeks apart, but it creates a whole new set of conflicts.
My latest new of any interest [at least, interesting to me] is that i have been contacted by the U of L Transplant team for an evaluation. It is still three weeks apart, but it creates a whole new set of conflicts.
I am changing blogs: the following is copied from the old blog.
So, the trip to Jersey City is on. I guess I need to practice walking as Rob does it all the time at breakneck speed. I want to just spend time with him and he wants to "show me NYC"; I guess we'll compromise somehow.
With temps being in the 90's for the past 25 days, our AC is acting up. It is tripping the circuit breakers every 2-4 hours. I even has the circuit breaker replaced after on AC man told me "nothing was wrong". Well, it is still tripping the circuit breaker. The first company is the same company that installed the AC and they have the reputation of stalling on repairs; not any more. I am changing companies.
With temps being in the 90's for the past 25 days, our AC is acting up. It is tripping the circuit breakers every 2-4 hours. I even has the circuit breaker replaced after on AC man told me "nothing was wrong". Well, it is still tripping the circuit breaker. The first company is the same company that installed the AC and they have the reputation of stalling on repairs; not any more. I am changing companies.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
It's been a while. I lost my kidneys Christmas; they went from 60% in September to 10% in December. Some say it was from diabetes or hypertension; some [me] even think it was from un-regulated use of a powerful diuretic for water gain; who knows. I had my arm surgically altered in January for a fistula to facilitate dialysis in March. From January to March, I lost 68 pounds on a rice and beans diet. Dialysis started in March; pneumonia arrived in June; my mother passes and I returned to the hospital.
Enough good news.
I have adjusted to a life divided into two or three day blocks; usually, we run out as soon as dialysis is over and gamble, or go to movies or whatever.
During the last month, I had my eyes fixed; cataracts were removed and I went from being severely near-sighted to being far-sighted. I can drive without glasses but need them to read. If you are thinking a out having this done, DO NOT go on line to watch a video of the surgery!
Enough good news.
I have adjusted to a life divided into two or three day blocks; usually, we run out as soon as dialysis is over and gamble, or go to movies or whatever.
During the last month, I had my eyes fixed; cataracts were removed and I went from being severely near-sighted to being far-sighted. I can drive without glasses but need them to read. If you are thinking a out having this done, DO NOT go on line to watch a video of the surgery!
Friday, October 30, 2009
The insurance company approved the repairs and the parts are ordered, now the waiting game.
Zu texted and she is coming home a day early as one of her traveling companions is suffering from an inner ear problem. I assume Zu will do most of the driving, but she is anxious to get Tinker on familiar ground.
My bachelor days are over; she will be back tomorrow night. None too soon, if you ask me.
Zu texted and she is coming home a day early as one of her traveling companions is suffering from an inner ear problem. I assume Zu will do most of the driving, but she is anxious to get Tinker on familiar ground.
My bachelor days are over; she will be back tomorrow night. None too soon, if you ask me.
I thought Iwas finished with the car but a routine service found a missing bracket and a damaged motor mount. They had the car 53 days, swore it was as good as new, and now they are waiting for the insurance company to come by 'in the next 48 hours" to inspect it. Just in time for it to sit over the weekend. When the insurance company approves the supplemental repair,it well take a day to order the parts and a day to install them. I won't see it until next Wednesday or Thursday. The defective parts caused a "Clunk" eachj time the motor mount flexed or jarred over a speed bump.
It is hard to trust any worker these days; so many times sloppy or inadequate work is acceptable. I wish dealers could be replaced by a corner garage where you knew the mechanic and he knew you.
It is hard to trust any worker these days; so many times sloppy or inadequate work is acceptable. I wish dealers could be replaced by a corner garage where you knew the mechanic and he knew you.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Well, Zu left for Florida this morning; she's travelling with two friends. I got an indication when the friends showed up with pillows and plans to sit in the back seat and snooze all the way there. They took enough snacks and pillows and games and books to stay forever. I have the feeling that Zu is going to drive most of the time. They all met at the census of 2000 and have been friends ever since. Me, I'm "Home Alone" for the next week. I have a few chores to run and there is always the casino; who knows. Keep your fingers crossed on me losing my mind in the next week.
Monday, October 19, 2009
We decided to trade off my birthday for a family reunion Saturday. The reunion was wonderful with family and good food. The reunion was held on a 20 acre farm owned by Vanessa and her husband. We were going to celebrate my birthday Sunday afternoon with our daughter and her husband and John and Tracey. Sunday morning, while in the shower, my wife comes and drags me out, telling me to get dressed and come into the living room as my "birthday present" was being delivered. It was Rob. Our son had driven in from Manhattan [ driving all night] to surprise me. I was without words. I won't get to see him at Thanksgiving or tr Christmas, so I was resigned to waiting until sometime in February to see him. It is/was the best present I could get.
Even though we talk once a week, there is no substitute like looking in his eyes or seeing his reactions to reassure us that he is OK.
Even though we talk once a week, there is no substitute like looking in his eyes or seeing his reactions to reassure us that he is OK.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
It's been a while. I returned to "work" today as an educational consultant. It sounds fancy, but it was a small job for an old friend at St. Catherine's College. It was the old "expert" role: I was 50 miles from home [although, I did not carry a brief case]. They were going through accreditation for the first time and I. in a prior life, worked for the state and was a visiting examiner for 12 other colleges and universities. So I gave them some ideas about what to expect in twp weeks. \It was raining or misting all the way down and back, bur I enjoyed the drive. Driving becomes almost automatic, and your mind can engage in other activities. I thought about my summers in Bardstown, at my aunt Margaret's; I thought about Brenda, her school, and how her life has changed. It was nice.
The stock market hit 10,000 + today and people are starting to talk like the light can be seen at the end of the tunnel; I hope they are right. It is interesting that the President won the Nobel Piece oops, peace. prize for what he says he will do. I've seen nothing but words and spending. Unemployment is higher, debt is greater, and he still keeps talking. I still hope what he promises comes true without destroying the nation or selling the next generation to China.
I recently got in contact with some old friends from PRP; long distance art teacher; a local English teacher; and an old friend who worked for the board. Funny how old friends are just that; catch up with events and, 5 minutes into the conversation, and they are just like they were years ago.
But, what the hay, I'm just an old man getting older who worries. I hit 66 in three days; am the participant in a government-run, single payer health system; and I'm on the government dole. Life is good.
The stock market hit 10,000 + today and people are starting to talk like the light can be seen at the end of the tunnel; I hope they are right. It is interesting that the President won the Nobel Piece oops, peace. prize for what he says he will do. I've seen nothing but words and spending. Unemployment is higher, debt is greater, and he still keeps talking. I still hope what he promises comes true without destroying the nation or selling the next generation to China.
I recently got in contact with some old friends from PRP; long distance art teacher; a local English teacher; and an old friend who worked for the board. Funny how old friends are just that; catch up with events and, 5 minutes into the conversation, and they are just like they were years ago.
But, what the hay, I'm just an old man getting older who worries. I hit 66 in three days; am the participant in a government-run, single payer health system; and I'm on the government dole. Life is good.
So I went to Florida. Borrowed my niece's house in Destin and invited some friends to go with us. Found out that he is an alpha male and insisted on doing all the driving. Did some swimming; ate a lot of local oysters; and took a trip to Biloxi. We were in Biloxi in April just before Katrina hit there. The Grand was pushed from the shore line to 200 yards inland. After all this time, they are still rebuilding. The Grand converted a ballroom into a casino; small but nice. On the way back, we took the ferry across Mobile bay and went to our favorite restaurant in Gulf Shores.
It was nice to not to have to think about having to be back home for work. I guess this is really what retirement is all about. I recommend it highly.
It was nice to not to have to think about having to be back home for work. I guess this is really what retirement is all about. I recommend it highly.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
State Fair
I went to the fair today. I have a food list for the fair with "A" selections and "B" selections. Every year, I eat a polish sausage with onions and peppers, followed by a pineapple whip. If I have time [I mean, if I stay long enough], I also have a funnel cake and some roasted almonds. I also have an "A" list for events. I go see the animals and the commercial exhibits.
I spent a lot of time today watching people. I noted a lot more young kids than before. I wonder if the economy or the day was to blame. I did notice that people are much nicer than at previous fairs. Families were friendly and all the vendors I met were the same way.
We used to go with bacon and tomato sandwiches; early to beat the regular prices; and visit all the free stuff. We would sign up for every thing and then spend the next six months dodging window salesmen. Now. just to get in and park costs more than we used to spend all day long. The fair is still a window to the real Kentucky. Not only the animals and the hams, but the people looking for a good time[cheaply] in hard times. Go if you can.
I spent a lot of time today watching people. I noted a lot more young kids than before. I wonder if the economy or the day was to blame. I did notice that people are much nicer than at previous fairs. Families were friendly and all the vendors I met were the same way.
We used to go with bacon and tomato sandwiches; early to beat the regular prices; and visit all the free stuff. We would sign up for every thing and then spend the next six months dodging window salesmen. Now. just to get in and park costs more than we used to spend all day long. The fair is still a window to the real Kentucky. Not only the animals and the hams, but the people looking for a good time[cheaply] in hard times. Go if you can.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Pick up trucks and bikers
Everyone has driven a pickup truck; either you've owned one or borrowed one to move dorm furniture, or mattresses, or storm damage. There is something about a truck that I like. First is the seating position; you're up high and you can see down the road. A truck should be driven slower than a car. The windows should be open; air conditioning is OK for a car but seems sort of out of place for a truck. A truck causes you to be patient; take your time; and allow others the same.
Today, I drove a truck. Borrowed Sonny's pickup and cleaned out a storage unit. Took a painting home; took another to Hay's auction; took a mattress to DAV only to learn that they didn't want it. Took the mattress to the dump site .
In the course of all my driving, and driving slower than usual [as suitable for driving a truck] I noticed some fine examples of bike riders in our fair city. Let me say at the outset, they deserve part of the road. They deserve the bike lanes carved out for them throughout the city. Having said that, let me talk about what bike riders do the undermine that sympathy. The first two bike riders approached a traffic light and promptly drove through a red, apparently because they could. Having a red and darting through the intersection is an accident waiting to happen. The third bike rider appeared at third and Broadway. Waiting to turn from Broadway to third, I sat with my blinker on. When the left turn light came on, I looked in my rear view mirror to see a spandex-clad, helmeted mike rider, passing me on the left, by riding the wrong way in the center of the east bound lane. If I haven't glanced in my rear view mirror [a usually unnecessary action when making a left turn] I would have run over the bike rider. So, why do people drive by bike riders and shout. or even throw things? I wonder if it is because they flaunt the rules of the road so blatantly. Are they all guilty? No, of course not, but a few can ruin it for the many. The fourth rider I encountered was going south on 3rd street and he suddenly darted from the bike lane into mine. Of course, the reason he swerved was a man and a woman, jogging in the bike lane, the wrong way on a one way street.
Did I get angry at any of these bike riders? Of course not; I was driving a pick up truck!
Today, I drove a truck. Borrowed Sonny's pickup and cleaned out a storage unit. Took a painting home; took another to Hay's auction; took a mattress to DAV only to learn that they didn't want it. Took the mattress to the dump site .
In the course of all my driving, and driving slower than usual [as suitable for driving a truck] I noticed some fine examples of bike riders in our fair city. Let me say at the outset, they deserve part of the road. They deserve the bike lanes carved out for them throughout the city. Having said that, let me talk about what bike riders do the undermine that sympathy. The first two bike riders approached a traffic light and promptly drove through a red, apparently because they could. Having a red and darting through the intersection is an accident waiting to happen. The third bike rider appeared at third and Broadway. Waiting to turn from Broadway to third, I sat with my blinker on. When the left turn light came on, I looked in my rear view mirror to see a spandex-clad, helmeted mike rider, passing me on the left, by riding the wrong way in the center of the east bound lane. If I haven't glanced in my rear view mirror [a usually unnecessary action when making a left turn] I would have run over the bike rider. So, why do people drive by bike riders and shout. or even throw things? I wonder if it is because they flaunt the rules of the road so blatantly. Are they all guilty? No, of course not, but a few can ruin it for the many. The fourth rider I encountered was going south on 3rd street and he suddenly darted from the bike lane into mine. Of course, the reason he swerved was a man and a woman, jogging in the bike lane, the wrong way on a one way street.
Did I get angry at any of these bike riders? Of course not; I was driving a pick up truck!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
ice cream and impossible promises
Met 4 out of 5 siblings to day at Rocky's. Short drive to Widow's Walk for ice cream. Nice Saturday.
Face book debates seem to jump from the issues to the past. I worry about the burden we are putting on the next generation; the erosion of the values of our country; and the slide toward socialism. rather than discuss those issues, liberals seem to want to invoke "Bush" as justification for dismantling a way of life. Yes, Bush was not the ideal president, but then neither was Carter, or Taft, or any number of past mistakes, both Republican and democrat. I find it interesting the the President's popularity poll numbers are lower then Clinton's when he was being impeached.
Even the most die hard Dem will admit that we are undergoing a drastic change in America; we part company in that I am concerned while others seem indifferent. They are willing to accept any cost for change. Will be be able to continue the bailouts by borrowing money from China? They already own more to them then we have ever owed anyone before.
I honestly hope that all this works. I hope that the Banks repay all the bailout money; that the Auto Industry survives and repays all the bailouts; and that universal health care is free and well-managed. I hope. I hope the He can do all this and not tax anyone making under $250,000 a year. In three years, we will have a reality check. Right after we pay the 2011 federal taxes. This is not to "save" me money: I live on a fixed income; enjoy social security; and have a government-run, single payer health plan. In 3 years, we will know.
Face book debates seem to jump from the issues to the past. I worry about the burden we are putting on the next generation; the erosion of the values of our country; and the slide toward socialism. rather than discuss those issues, liberals seem to want to invoke "Bush" as justification for dismantling a way of life. Yes, Bush was not the ideal president, but then neither was Carter, or Taft, or any number of past mistakes, both Republican and democrat. I find it interesting the the President's popularity poll numbers are lower then Clinton's when he was being impeached.
Even the most die hard Dem will admit that we are undergoing a drastic change in America; we part company in that I am concerned while others seem indifferent. They are willing to accept any cost for change. Will be be able to continue the bailouts by borrowing money from China? They already own more to them then we have ever owed anyone before.
I honestly hope that all this works. I hope that the Banks repay all the bailout money; that the Auto Industry survives and repays all the bailouts; and that universal health care is free and well-managed. I hope. I hope the He can do all this and not tax anyone making under $250,000 a year. In three years, we will have a reality check. Right after we pay the 2011 federal taxes. This is not to "save" me money: I live on a fixed income; enjoy social security; and have a government-run, single payer health plan. In 3 years, we will know.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
, Rain. go away. Finally got all the doctors in the same place and consensus is that I am in the same [cardiac] condition I was after my by-pass surgery in 2001. I guess I have No excuses now. In fact, I'm cutting out one drug for a month to see the effects.
I sat in the Dr.'s office and watched the rain, safe on the third floor. I know it rained almost 6" in one hour and it was the 100 year storm. No system could be designed to handle that much water, particularly after a week of soaking rains. Hundreds of homes and cars found themselves under water, full of raw sewage and no one knows what else. The clean-up will take months.
Sarah goes to stay with Rob and Cassie and the twins are spending Saturday night with us. Bill and Brenda will be alone. good time for a prank call although you do so at your own risk.
Obama's ratings are lower today than Clinton's was when he was being impeached. This is 200 days into his term. I wonder if he will be a one-term president or will he be able to persuade the American people that all of this is good for us?
Good news on the stock market: 5 more years of increases at this rate and I'll be where I was in 2007.
I am not a bank; don't own a clunker; and have yet to feel any stimulus.
I sat in the Dr.'s office and watched the rain, safe on the third floor. I know it rained almost 6" in one hour and it was the 100 year storm. No system could be designed to handle that much water, particularly after a week of soaking rains. Hundreds of homes and cars found themselves under water, full of raw sewage and no one knows what else. The clean-up will take months.
Sarah goes to stay with Rob and Cassie and the twins are spending Saturday night with us. Bill and Brenda will be alone. good time for a prank call although you do so at your own risk.
Obama's ratings are lower today than Clinton's was when he was being impeached. This is 200 days into his term. I wonder if he will be a one-term president or will he be able to persuade the American people that all of this is good for us?
Good news on the stock market: 5 more years of increases at this rate and I'll be where I was in 2007.
I am not a bank; don't own a clunker; and have yet to feel any stimulus.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Saw a great movie, "Hurt Locker" at the Baxter. It's about a bomb disposal unit in Iraq and is specific to that war and general to all wars. We were in the old 'hood for the movie and went to Kashmir for lunch before. I miss the Highlands; having all those restaurants at hand was nice. We have to drive so far to get any food except for Mexican or BBQ. There is one good Italian [run by Mexicans] but little else.
Speaking of restaurants, we are planning a drive to Jasper, Indiana one Wednesday to go to a German Restaurant.
I go see my cardiologist the 30th for the results of my stress test. The longer I go without hearing from him, the better I feel about the test.
Speaking of restaurants, we are planning a drive to Jasper, Indiana one Wednesday to go to a German Restaurant.
I go see my cardiologist the 30th for the results of my stress test. The longer I go without hearing from him, the better I feel about the test.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Raain and a road trip
Wonderful day yesterday. Woke up to rain; sat in the living room and watched it rain. Around noon, Paul and Susan came over and we went to "Shack in the Back" for BBQ...and it rained...hard....for an hour. We sat outside under a metal awning and enjoyed the rain. We then went to Tuscany for dessert and coffee.
After coming home, we loaded a painting of Rob's and went to Bardstown. Doug volunteers for a group at a clinic there and they are having a charity auction the 31st for under-insured or non-insured patrons and we wanted to donate a painting. We expected to just drop off the painting but we got to see Cheryl as she was under the weather. On the trip down there, we listened to "Water for Elephants" on CD. Makes the trip pass quickly. After Doug and Cheryl's, we went to Brenda's and saw the girls [and Heddy the hedge hog].
Family members are often like scholars: they are not appreciated because we are too close to them. It's a personal manifestation of the adage, "100 miles from home with a brief case"; until we kinda' draw back and look at those closest to us, we really can't appreciate them.
After listening to the #8 CD on the way home, we pulled in the garage and sat in the dark for a while, finishing chapter 19. We need somewhere to drive as we have just a little over two disks to listen to.
After coming home, we loaded a painting of Rob's and went to Bardstown. Doug volunteers for a group at a clinic there and they are having a charity auction the 31st for under-insured or non-insured patrons and we wanted to donate a painting. We expected to just drop off the painting but we got to see Cheryl as she was under the weather. On the trip down there, we listened to "Water for Elephants" on CD. Makes the trip pass quickly. After Doug and Cheryl's, we went to Brenda's and saw the girls [and Heddy the hedge hog].
Family members are often like scholars: they are not appreciated because we are too close to them. It's a personal manifestation of the adage, "100 miles from home with a brief case"; until we kinda' draw back and look at those closest to us, we really can't appreciate them.
After listening to the #8 CD on the way home, we pulled in the garage and sat in the dark for a while, finishing chapter 19. We need somewhere to drive as we have just a little over two disks to listen to.
Spent the day getting rid of old dishes; bought new ones. Pretty boring life. Judi Cherwak came by today. She was a student when she was a freshman and her daughter starts college this year. It's funny how you have 200 students a year, for 44 years and one remains your friend. Our lives intertwine every couple of years and it's always good to see her. I've watched her daughter over the years and I feel like I know her as well as anybody.
She used to babysit our children.
Speaking of children: My son is keeping us in the dark about a potential new job. We are supposed to hear about it on Tuesday: can't wait. Our daughter has brought a animal shelter dog into a House "owned" by a cat for years. Waiting to see what happens when the fur settles.
She used to babysit our children.
Speaking of children: My son is keeping us in the dark about a potential new job. We are supposed to hear about it on Tuesday: can't wait. Our daughter has brought a animal shelter dog into a House "owned" by a cat for years. Waiting to see what happens when the fur settles.
Friday, July 17, 2009
A Day at the Races
The first good thing about today is that I survived the cardiac stress test. I say "survived" because there was a point, late into the treadmill potion when I considered the alternative. I've been sedate for years and this was like going from 0 to 60. I also broke up "stuff" in my lungs , I guess, because I haven't huff and puffed so hard in years.
I won't know the official results until the 30th, but as long as I don't get a call before then to meet Dr. C at the emergency room, I guess I'll be OK.
After I got home, I found several bumps under my shirt. After a little digging, I discovered all the electrical leads still attached. I guess the reason they don't remove them is to avoid all the crying from ripping of those patches.
I got the bill for the telephone pole today: LG &E wants $3400 and change.
Off the "Singing in the Rain" tomorrow: a gift from Jo in Arizona. Look forwards to it.
I won't know the official results until the 30th, but as long as I don't get a call before then to meet Dr. C at the emergency room, I guess I'll be OK.
After I got home, I found several bumps under my shirt. After a little digging, I discovered all the electrical leads still attached. I guess the reason they don't remove them is to avoid all the crying from ripping of those patches.
I got the bill for the telephone pole today: LG &E wants $3400 and change.
Off the "Singing in the Rain" tomorrow: a gift from Jo in Arizona. Look forwards to it.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
i was driving past Valley High School this afternoon and I started to thinking about old friends from high school. Dennis O'Nan came to mind. Once, at a party at his house, minus his parent, we were 5 guys and three girls and at some time during the evening the other three guys took off with all the women and left Tony McAdam and me all alone. Too many frustrated hormones and too many beers and we decided to move Dennis' car....sideways.....in his garage. Using a floor jack, and moving the car a little at a time, we moved it until it sat sideways in the garage. It seemed really funny at the time. [see the previous part about too many beers]. When Dennis came home, we hid in the bushes down the street. Middle of the night, we were on our bellies trying not to snicker and Dennis was walking up and down the street, describing in great detail, what he would do when he caught us. It took several weeks for Dennis to calm down and we never talked of it again until 40 years later, sitting on a beach in Hawaii. I found out then that Dennis had been regularly going out at lunch in high school and stealing my car, driving his friends to lunch, and returning leaving everything as it was. So, it was a moot point about who was getting revenge on whom. Dennis is somewhere in Alabama and I haven't seen him for years. Dennis is a true friend. We ran together in high school and then he went into the Navy and I went to school. He came back to get married and start a family and we got together again for a few years. He moved to Harrodsburg and we lost contact. 30 years later, we meet again. We travelled some; gambled some, and then drifted apart again. I say he is a true friend because, if he walked in today, we would joke about how fat, and old we had become, then we would be comfortable together as if we had been next door neighbors for 50 years. As it is, we have just been friends for 54 years. Some of the best friends are some i made in high school and it is a shame I have not been able to keep them close to me.
Monday, July 13, 2009
O happy Day! My car is back. Even though it was 87, we put the top down and took the long way every where we needed to go. The gaps on the fenders; the paint; all the mechanical goodies [with the exception of the outside temp. Gage] works fine.
I'm busy all this week with the grand finale of a stress test on Thursday and Friday. Keep your fingers crossed!
I'm busy all this week with the grand finale of a stress test on Thursday and Friday. Keep your fingers crossed!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Alone vs. lonely
I was alone today. After taking my sweet time eating breakfast and taking meds, I went across the river. Zu drove to Nicholasville for her oldest sister's 77th birthday. I say I was alone, but that shifted into lonely when I turned to suggest we go get something to eat and the Lady next to me wasn't who i thought she was. I've heard it said "you missed the rock in your shoe", well, I missed the shoe. 6000 People and I still looked for her. Gotta' get out more!
Going to see my siblings later [plus various daughters and nieces]: always look forward to that each month. More important now that Zu lost a sister. One probably won't come [too many bass left to kill] and another won't make it as she is recovering from yet another operation.
All of my dissertations are wrapping up. I have one Turk; two female Taiwanese; and one male Taiwanese. When they are finished, I don't know that I will take on another.
I can see the dawn light through the patio blinds; I guess the day is about to begin. I used to say, "They[the days] are all good", now I'm beginning to believe it.
50 days and still no car. I don't want to tell you what to do, but Swope Collison may not be my first choice in the future.
Going to see my siblings later [plus various daughters and nieces]: always look forward to that each month. More important now that Zu lost a sister. One probably won't come [too many bass left to kill] and another won't make it as she is recovering from yet another operation.
All of my dissertations are wrapping up. I have one Turk; two female Taiwanese; and one male Taiwanese. When they are finished, I don't know that I will take on another.
I can see the dawn light through the patio blinds; I guess the day is about to begin. I used to say, "They[the days] are all good", now I'm beginning to believe it.
50 days and still no car. I don't want to tell you what to do, but Swope Collison may not be my first choice in the future.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Date Day
Wednesday is "Date Day".. Paul and Susan go to a senior citizen discounted movie and we have lunch after. No movies this week so we just went to lunch. Lots of good BBQ and discussions about kids, parents, families, and gambling. Paul and I talked about cars and bored the girls to death. It's nice to just have time to do whatever.
Still no car. I'm going to give them another two or three days and then I'm going to start talking about people's mothers.
Still no car. I'm going to give them another two or three days and then I'm going to start talking about people's mothers.
Monday, July 6, 2009
handguns in Turkey
Page 2, as Harvey used to say: Today, there was a big article on gun permits. I asked the Turks about the policy on carry at home. No carry, but if you want a hand gun for home protection, you have to go to a doctor to determine if you are crazy. Crazy: no gun. Then, to keep your gun, you have to go back every 5 years for the doctor to see if you've gone crazy in the meantime. Why not use that policy here? Only with politicans!! Maybe school teachers???
Turkish police
Started the day with my doctor and results from lab tests: so far, so good. Had lunch with two Turkish Policemen who had both finished their EDD degrees this month. They are returning to Turkey after 5 years. Murat has had two children while they are here and views their US citizenship as a pass to return for an advanced education. I took them to lunch when they first arrived and refused to let them pay and they returned the favor.
Celebrated the end of the day with stage two of a root canal.
Foreign students here struggle because my university doesn't provide any support; they are on their own. I question the ethics of inviting students here, taking their tuition, and then leaving them to their own devices for three to four years.
Celebrated the end of the day with stage two of a root canal.
Foreign students here struggle because my university doesn't provide any support; they are on their own. I question the ethics of inviting students here, taking their tuition, and then leaving them to their own devices for three to four years.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Rainy 4th
Good day. We met old friends and new friends; neighbors with rained out parties; and learned about families started. Yes, it rained. All day. The crowd varied from 25 to 40, depending on who dropped in. Great food. As usual, too much of it.
Of course, to celebrate America and it's over abundance of everything, an excessive picnic is just the thing.
After, we came home and vegged out, killing time until bed.
Spent that time thinking about how lucky I was. The recession never really touched me directly. Oh, I lost money in the stock market, but it was money I never really had. My job was secure until I wanted to give it up. I don't have any grandchildren to pay back all the handout goodies flowing out of Washington and to the Banks, auto companies, etc., and inflation is a boogie man around the corner. However, the "Change" in America saddens me because I know that will stay with us for years, regardless of what happens, politically, in the coming years. But, Happy 4th! Appreciate what you have .
Of course, to celebrate America and it's over abundance of everything, an excessive picnic is just the thing.
After, we came home and vegged out, killing time until bed.
Spent that time thinking about how lucky I was. The recession never really touched me directly. Oh, I lost money in the stock market, but it was money I never really had. My job was secure until I wanted to give it up. I don't have any grandchildren to pay back all the handout goodies flowing out of Washington and to the Banks, auto companies, etc., and inflation is a boogie man around the corner. However, the "Change" in America saddens me because I know that will stay with us for years, regardless of what happens, politically, in the coming years. But, Happy 4th! Appreciate what you have .
Friday, July 3, 2009
4th day of July
Putting aside the fireworks, picnics, etc., today is a profound part of being an American. I've always felt that the government should make things possible and each individual should develop that possibility to the extent it could be developed, given talent, work ethic, and luck. Talent and work ethic no longer seem to matter much to those in line for a government "bail out" of one sort or another. When someone gives you something for "free", they usually want something in return. If you are lucky, it is appreciation, or friendship; if not, it is usually your self respect. I pray that what is happening will work out in the end and America will emerge a stronger and better nation. Happy 4th!!!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Stop by to see the car today; another week for wheels to come in. Rather drive their car then take mine back "partially done" Got to see Dr. C today; passed my first test and headed for my second the 16th and 17th. Dr. C looks younger and younger every time I see him. Must have a portrait in a closet somewhere. Played poker tonight; good game
Going to Vietnam Kitchen then the Casino tomorrow. Will come back home before the crowds arrive. Seeing Don and Nancy this weekend; always fun.
Going to Vietnam Kitchen then the Casino tomorrow. Will come back home before the crowds arrive. Seeing Don and Nancy this weekend; always fun.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
I spent my last day of work sitting in a dentist's office being treated for a lost filling and then the prep for a root canal. Is this symbolic of the end or the beginning?
I'm still waiting for my car. May 21, I put it through a utility pole and it has been all this time at the body shop. The rental, however, has Sirrius radio and I am hooked on a channel with music from my youth. Strangely, it is not the 60's. If asked, and sometimes when not, I would characterize myself as a child of the 60's, but I guess I am not. I really had my formative years in the late 50's. I guess we have other distractions during high school and really form our love of music during Junior High School. So, Channel 5 for the 50''s it is. I remember a metal Crosley AM radio, sitting in my bedroom window with a copper wire for an antenna, listening to Randy's Record Shop in Gallatin, Tennessee late at night. Cohort 6 and 7/8's, I think it was called. Funny, how 55 years later I still remember the words with only a few notes to prod me. Can't remember what I had for breakfast, but I can remember those songs.
Went to see Johnny Depp in his new movie today; went with Paul and Susan then to lunch after. Great detail in the movie: sets, costumes, music; mediocore story.
I'm reading a Balducci novel about the first family. I now have time to pleasure read and it is nice. Tomorrow to the cardiologist for my annual lecture entitled, " too much weight and too little exercise". It's good to have things to depend on.
I'm still waiting for my car. May 21, I put it through a utility pole and it has been all this time at the body shop. The rental, however, has Sirrius radio and I am hooked on a channel with music from my youth. Strangely, it is not the 60's. If asked, and sometimes when not, I would characterize myself as a child of the 60's, but I guess I am not. I really had my formative years in the late 50's. I guess we have other distractions during high school and really form our love of music during Junior High School. So, Channel 5 for the 50''s it is. I remember a metal Crosley AM radio, sitting in my bedroom window with a copper wire for an antenna, listening to Randy's Record Shop in Gallatin, Tennessee late at night. Cohort 6 and 7/8's, I think it was called. Funny, how 55 years later I still remember the words with only a few notes to prod me. Can't remember what I had for breakfast, but I can remember those songs.
Went to see Johnny Depp in his new movie today; went with Paul and Susan then to lunch after. Great detail in the movie: sets, costumes, music; mediocore story.
I'm reading a Balducci novel about the first family. I now have time to pleasure read and it is nice. Tomorrow to the cardiologist for my annual lecture entitled, " too much weight and too little exercise". It's good to have things to depend on.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
the real beginning
Today is my last paycheck and my last day of employment. After 44 years, I am retiring. So, what does a man do after getting up and going to work all of his adult life? [and getting up to go to school since he was 5?] I guess we'll find out. This may not have any value to you but it will be an outlet for me and keep me sane [I hope}] as I go from a man of work to a man of leisure.
I'm at work now, finishing up last minute details as I turn over things and close up others.
I'm at work now, finishing up last minute details as I turn over things and close up others.
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