Three Weeks and Counting

I know I promised no more "diary" entries, but this is just too good to pass up.  Accomplishments to date:

• Received a computer, BUT I have been deleted from the company e-mail addresses.
• Received a telephone, BUT it has not been (and currently can't be) reprogrammed for my personal messages.
• Tried three times to submit  "electronic" (read as "digital" - pun intended) fingerprints, and then resorted to old fashioned ink.  Prepared six sets and submitted four for background check.  No results to date.
• No leads on a house to rent (in fact, they could be extremely "rare" at this time).

Came home last night and got in about 9 PM.  Greeted at the door by Black Beauty, followed closely by Blondie.  Heard Buddy call from the living room and went to find an early Christmas present.  Buddy had a rather "meaty" mouse in his mouth.  Unfortunately, it was still alive and further, Buddy allowed it to escape. 

Buddy and Black Beauty remained on alert in the bedroom most of the night.  I awoke this morning to BB trying to reach behind one of the bookcases (I didn't see Mr. Mouse, however).  As I went to the kitchen to prepare the morning pot of java, Black Beauty, backed up by Blondie, were on full alert near the covered "cat box" and still chasing Mr. Mouse.  I left them with instructions to find and kill and/or eat the mouse. 

Today was the first snow fall.  Currently, the deck is damp with vestiges of white.  No mouse in sight and all felines are in relative states of "relaxation." 

Laundry underway, oil changed in Honda, groceries (alright - cat food and wine) purchased.  Attempting anything on the computer today has been difficult - all three of the darlings have walked on the keyboard at least once.  Time to finish a good book.

"A catless writer is almost inconceivable. It's a perverse taste, really, since it would be easier to write with a herd of buffalo in the room than even one cat; they make nests in the notes and bite the end of the pen and walk on the typewriter keys."  ~ Barbara Holland

Day 5

I think this will be the last entry in the "diary of a new employee."  From here on it will be the usual observations and comments. 

That said, Day 5.  Finished all the required training modules, tapped into some of the corporate files (but the system was really "glitchy" and required logging off between each document), still no computer, didn't see boss (who will be out next week) but met my counter part (Manager, Health and Safety).

This is definitely going to be a lot of fun!

"The number one sign you have nothing to do at work: The 4th Division of Paperclips has overrun the Pushpin Infantry and General White-Out has called for a new skirmish." ~ Fred Barling, Humorscope

Day 4

Accomplishments -

1. Located my office (in the oldest trailer in the "trailer patch"), 
2. Was finger printed for the second time,
3. Completed my initial "environmental" training, which was given by the environmental engineer (one of my two "staff" members,) and
4. Received my password.  Additionally, accessed my payroll account.

Yet to be done -

1. Still do not have a computer. 
2. My payroll account has not been set up.
3. Need one more item of "plant-specific" garb
4. Finger prints have not been cleared.  With out that, I have to always have an escort in the plant.

Progress.

"Patience is also a form of action." ~ Auguste Rodin

Days 1 through 3

Day 1:  At 8:00 AM I entered the plant to clear security.  Returned to car and left cell phone.  Back to security, scanned, got visitor badge (006), and escort showed up.  Put on green hard hat, yellow booties over shoes, and a gauze-like "jacket" (XL).  Crossed over to the "trailer patch" and began my training.

Best part of the day - plant manager's assistant/secretary came and told me she was excited to meet me.  Her aunt and uncle live near Shelbyville and told her about me coming to the plant.  They live next door to a couple that I know from my church.  Small town life (at both ends of the road).  How fun.

Got finger printed (about six times).  My "password" is MIA - so I can't get to my e-mails or company website (for things like signing up for my benefits).  Left about 2:30 to get my new steel-toed boots.

Day 2:  Arrived at health assessment provider's location at 8:20 for my 8:30 appointment.  No they did not perform the blood test immediately.  First, there were papers (and papers, and papers, and ...) to fill out.  I finished.  I paced.  I talked running with one of the receptionists (she just completed her first half marathon this fall - Evansville). 

My name was called and they weighed me and got my height.  Then they attempted to get my blood pressure.  I warned them it would be VERY HIGH.  It was a mere 187/84.  Instead of the eye test I had the blood draw - but not until I had a exam table to lie down on.  After the blood was taken, they turned out the lights and shut the door.  My heart rate began to subside.  Ten or 15 minutes later and they tried my blood pressure again (153/80 - much better).  Good enough to get off the table and on with the rest of the tests.

Eyes, pulmonary function, EKG, and fit tests.  I was done shortly after noon.  I spotted the Kroger across the road and bought about $100 worth of groceries.  I put them away (in my Marriott efficiency apartment) and headed to Bob Evans.  Made it to the plant about 2 pm and completed several training "modules" along with my two training buddies.  Left about 4:45 pm.

Day 3:  I started with a visit to the local hospital and finished about an hour and 15 minutes later (following my simple chest x-ray).  Got to the plant in time for my escort to take me to a different training room to learn the basics of one more electronic data base.  Finished that about noon.  Lunch with the trainers (I made mine from the Kroger stash).  Then went "shopping" at the plant store for coveralls (which have to be worn from the time I get into the plant along with the new steel-toed boots that never leave the "hot" locker), jacket, goggles, and miscellaneous stuff.  Completed training module and went to a "manager's meeting."

The best part of the day - I got to meet my new boss.  He is a great guy.  This is going to be FUN!  I can't wait to get my password.  Oh yes, finger prints have to be redone as well.  Will have to have an escort for several more days. 

"Patience is a most necessary qualification for business; many a man would rather you heard his story than granted his request."  ~ Lord Chesterfield

Weekend Fun

I certainly hope this doesn't become the norm.  Saturday is supposed to be a day devoted to chores that take more than five minutes.  Today was definitely one of those.  I should learn not to procrastinate and then expect to catch up on all of them at once.

Day started with preparing to send a small package and talking with Jean (we had a very nice chat).  As soon as she hung up, however, a horn honked in the drive.  It was 9 AM, I had not had a drop of coffee, and it was time for the "daily walk" with my neighbors.  We went.  It rained (actually a heavy mist).  We finished at 9:45 AM.

I changed and went into the big town of Findlay.  Stopped at the post office and discussed box rental with the head person.  Then I went to the local dive, the Sunrise Cafe and had breakfast.  Home by 11:05.

The phone rang again (the second or third person since I hung up with my sister).  It was Ellen Kay.  We talked until 12:25 (no surprise there).  Wide ranging discussion.

Then time to get to the chores.  First, finished cleaning carpets (guest room, hall, and bedroom).  Cleaned two chairs in the living room.  The tackled the basement and got to use my "new" mop and bucket with the "mop squeezing" attachment.  Swept floor, vacuumed up the dead bugs, cut some of the out of use wires, rearranged stuff, mopped, and quit. 

Back upstairs and finished cleaning guest room.  Moved to the bedroom and hung clothes that were washed a couple days ago.  Cleared off the dresser.  Bach aching.

Oh yes, in between called Buns for her birthday and caught up on the Gerber side.  The talked with Don (twice - once at 7 and once at 8).  Finally, sat with an "adult beverage," left overs and a call to Mom.  Guess my legs and back are tired (wonder why?).  Couch has my name on it.  One more day before I start being paid for my efforts.

"It's all in the attitude - housework is exercise. Slim your way to a clean home! " ~ Linda Solegato

Work Hardening - HA!

Hard to believe that this is/was my last FREE Friday before I get back to earning a living.  Up at 7:20 AM (listening to Bob & Tom, naturally), coffee, cats outside (and in and out and in and so forth). 

The calls from Honeywell relocation (and the e-mails) began at 11:10 AM on Wednesday.  Since then they have become more than amusing.  Yesterday, for example, the moving company called and were ready to schedule my furniture pickup.  Going where?  I explained the situation to them - that I had only had my initial contact midday Wednesday.  With my start date of Monday there really isn't enough time to find a place to move into ... yet.  I think I detected a bit of amusement in the caller after I explained the situation. 

Today I heard from the local real estate agent in Metropolis (he called after I had spent about an hour on his website looking at all the houses he has listed).  I told him I had thought about renting, but if that was not possible I would consider a SMALL house in/around town.  I told him I have a mortgage (actually I have two, but who's counting), and would prefer to work with the current holder to determine my level of pre-qualification.  I will get back to him.

I went to lunch with two former coworkers from Dynegy and we had a terrific time.  They are both at the same company now (in Assumption - great diner there for lunch).  The irony of it all is the company is going to open an executive office in Decatur - in the same building where we worked for Dynegy!  What goes around ... .

Came home to another call.  This one from another company that will help me locate rental houses in the Metropolis area - for a "small fee."  They want nearly $1,000 and will get me in touch with a local realtor.  Hmmmm ... I think I don't need that MUCH assistance.  We will see.

Then, taking advantage of the final rays of sunlight on this last, forecasted day of warmth, I hung my Christmas lights, took down a few old wasp nests, and swept the garage.  Now to start on my "things to get done before I start work" list.  Guess I can't put off the remaining carpets any longer. 

First I need to put on my "work" clothes (read that as sweat pants long past their attractive phase and some old shirt), and get on with the evening activity. 

Oops, what just flashed along the bottom of my computer - another email note.   Now hear this - I have 24 HOURS to respond.  They are thrilled they have found my temporary apartment (i.e., at the Residence Inn in Paducah).  I must provide appropriate documentation (by either fax or scanned e-mail) or I will not get my lodging.  These contract companies are rather "employee unfriendly" in their manner/written words.

Just one more speed bump along life's highway.  I am sure things will look much better after I get there on Monday morning.  My Plant HR Manager will not be in; I won't seem him until the 22nd.  By then perhaps I will have even more stories to tell.  He did call to confirm I would show on Monday morning.  I said I would be there.  We are good.

  "I think housework is the reason most women go to the office."

~ Heloise Cruse

It was a dark ...

... and chilly night.  The grandmas were snuggled in chairs under wraps. 

When what to our wondering eyes did appear?  A small flower girl in all of her curls.

The groom and his "men" were somber and cool.  The bride was elegant and her young man was too.

What a grand night - it was all about family.  Moms (there were two), Dads (one here and one above) and brothers,too.  The group was gathered to hear Preacher Paul give his blessings to the couple, who pronounced their love out loud.

Now I'm not a poet (as you can well see), but a little lyric goes a long way.  So after the words (and the big, wet kiss), we all scrambled in for the words we had missed:  "Let them eat cake!"

The gathered witnesses, full of sweet delights, gave their good nights.  The newlywed couple had a short night to spend, as they rose early for sunny Florida's end.

"A wedding anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity. The order varies for any given year." ~Paul Sweeney

Morning Blog

I remember ... keep writing.  I skipped yesterday - more of a blur, at least for part of the day.  I did venture into "town" and upped my car insurance, dropped film from the wedding (more later) to be developed, and picked up cat "stuff" for the next couple weeks.  The afternoon included my first run in more than a month - TERRIFIC.  No Tums required and the gut is better (at least for now).

On the flip side, no call from the relocation folks.  Some people just are not good at keeping appointments I suppose.

Walk with neighbors completed, first load of laundry on the line, second in the washer and soon to be pinned on the line (which is now sagging due to outside exposure for the past six months), and then on with the day's activities (you know, the never ending "check list" of household chores and what have you).  Then a run in the early afternoon (I can't wait - will target the campground to minimize any negative impact of the wind), and a conference call concerning the "Environmental Scan" for the Society of Women Engineers (it isn't what you think).

Buddy was dreaming.  He started to "talk" in his sleep.  It woke him up.  Very interesting.

Of course, it is sunny and warm out now (11 AM), and who''s to say that a book has my name on it and will require some time on the deck to scan a few pages.  So much for "work hardening."

"Reconsider, v. To seek a justification for a decision already made." ~Ambrose Bierce

Way Over Due

Thank you good and faithful reader(s).  The past six weeks seem like a rush.  For those who have not yet heard, the interview at Honeywell on September 22 lead to a job offer (October 6) - Manager of Health and Safety.  The offer was accepted (October 8 - didn't want to see "too eager" or "needy"), which triggered a series of events that ultimately were totally out of my control.

There is the background check (for the security clearance at the plant), the "pee in the cup" test, and the financial background check (to name a few I can remember).  There has been more paper between me and Honeywell than was used to write and print the Health Care Bill. 

After I pee'd and was successful (that was not in doubt at all), they called on Thursday (October 28 - afternoon) and asked if I was ready to start on the following Monday, November 1.  Are you kidding?! 

Well, the official start will be a week from tomorrow - November 15. I have been living with extreme doses of Tums and Acidophilus the past week or so.  Stress of the unknown (and the known) has been mounting.  I will be really happy when I finally get to the plant and start.

Interesting aside:  The sermon this morning was about work.

Meantime there is much yet to be completed - upgrading insurance on vehicles, finding pet sitter, dealing with the mail, and assorted other "stuff" around the house.  For example, today I took and hour and trimmed three bushes.  There are at least two more wheel barrel loads more to be taken off other bushes.  I'm just saying ... .

But I think I am more than ready to work again.  Income issues aside, I need the frequent interaction with others to keep my mental state in tact (not that you have noticed my lack of logic at times).  The weekly drive to Metropolis will likely get "old," but I think it will be fine.  I PROMISE to keep you updated more frequently during this final week of preparation and then after the start.  It should be FUN!

"Many people quit looking for work when they find a job." ~Author Unknown

Busy Week

I think a quick "diary" update is in order.  It has been a fairly busy week (actually, it might have really started last week when the television personality came in for an interview).  

Yes, I was interviewed based on my "tweets."  I gather than not all folks on Twitter use the media to unload their daily frustrations like I have.  I signed up several months ago (not really knowing much about the site) and gave myself a "handle" rather than using my full name (Bandit 91 - what else?).  The evolution of my use became my daily entries related to the job hunting and the rejections.  I figured there were no secrets there and used the company names in my tweets.  A local TV station reporter picked me up and decided to interview me.  Last night I was the lead story on the 10 PM news.  Very amusing.

This week also provided me with my first visit to the Home of Superman - Metropolis, Illinois (the only city with that name found in the postal zip code registry).  I had an interview for a Safety Manager position at a plant owned and operated by Honeywell.  The history of the site is too much for this entry, but suffice to say the challenges there are enough to keep a new person satisfied and busy for the foreseeable future (like until the cows come home and then some).  The plant is the only one of its type in the world and one of a handful that make their product (which is used in nuclear power plants and weapons).  The interview day was fun and I am waiting to see if they liked me as much as I liked them.

Today it was back to the job hunting (yesterday was slim with only two resumes sent to "unknown" companies).  Again, two resumes were sent out.  Then late in the day I received two phone calls - one to set up a site interview in two weeks (October 12 to be precise) and one for a phone screen on Monday (at 8:30 AM).  Must be either Mercury is now behaving or there is something new in the Fall air.  Then again, the recession has ended according to the news reports this week.

"Ability is of little account without opportunity."  ~ Napoleon

Evening in the Yard

Last evening Blondie went out for one last bit of "salad."  I was at the computer when suddenly I heard the distinctive sound of a deer - "snorting" to get the scent of another.  I looked out and there was the brave deer trying to determine just what the little "fur ball" in the yard was.  After all, Blondie was in the middle of the best grazing area.

I had to get a closer look and one not impeded by the sliding screen.  To anyone who came along, I am certain it was quite a sight.  I was lying on my stomach with the screen parted so I could get a clear aim at the encounter.

 Blondie remained her cool self.  She looked at the deer (there were five including one fawn), and then calmly sauntered to the deck and inside.  But then, she went back outside before I could stop her (Buddy had been observing the meeting from the deck and came inside when the deer appeared to be too close).


Blondie then casually wandered over to the bush in the back yard, ignoring the deer.  The deer kept huffing and stomping as she timidly approached Blondie.  Then our darling Blondie decided it was time to relieve herself - in the midst of the deer grazing area.  What a hoot!

Trying to get Blondie back in was another challenge.   She wandered over to the middle of the yard, stayed while the group approached, and then put her tail in the air and ambled toward the garage.  I dashed through the house, opened the door in the garage, and managed to convince her it was time to come inside.  The deer wandered off, to be replaced as the light faded further by a young buck and another doe.  I really enjoy evenings like this.

"Curiosity will conquer fear even more than bravery will."  ~James Stephens, The Crock of Gold

One Week Later - Eulogy

The first week without BK (except as he protects the house from his vantage point in the backyard), and the hole in my heart is still there.  I wake in the morning and reflexively look to the door just to make certain there isn't a little black kitty waiting to be let inside.  From time to time in the evenings I find myself looking out the living room door to the deck to ensure "he" isn't roaming there as well.

It is getting better now.  I have a spot in the back to go out to and "talk" with BK.  I think I will plant some trees there.

"Now take back the soul of ... (BK) ... whom you shared with us.

He brought us joy ... and we loved him well.

He was not ours.

He was not mine."

~ Karen Blixen in Out of Africa

The Next Day

June 2009 - BK Enjoys the Front Porch

BK is keeping the yard free of mice - at least the "ghost" mice. 

I woke up at 4:48 and actually listened to see if BK would call at the bedroom door (he would do that when he spent the night out - and would meow about 5 AM to be let inside).  The two "girls" were in bed with me - side by side.

After my morning shower, the usual ritual includes the girls lapping the water trapped in the shower door rungs (glass door).  Today Buddy was patiently waiting while Black Beauty finished the ritual.  Then Buddy wanted a cuddle.  We haven't had our morning cuddle in months!  It was very nice.

The temperature at 7 AM was 53 outside.  The girls were in the kitchen for breakfast, and for the first time in days they ate with gusto.

I went for a walk with my neighbor (who had lent me a pick for my afternoon labor yesterday).  I started missing the little fella all over again.  After the walk, Blondie went outside.  While I washed dishes I watched her in the "garden" - she went to the upper fish pond for a drink, and then the lower.  Then she sat on the bridge and looked around.  I think she was waiting for her pal, BK.


I poured a cup of coffee and went out on the deck.  Blondie sniffed around (in all the spots where BK would lie), and then came to be picked up.  We sat together - she purred while tears rolled down my cheeks.  I drank coffee.


Buddy came out and also sniffed around. The two of them "marked" the area using paws and the sides of their faces.  We came inside.  The girls wrestled - for the first time in months!


I think BK was sick longer than I knew.  Bandit was sick for a while and didn't respond to the treatments.  She didn't leave the vet's office the second time alive.  Her ashes are still in my dresser.  BK is in the backyard by the tall grasses.  I hope he likes it there.  

"Perhaps he knew, as I did not, that the Earth was made round so that we would not see too far down the road." - Karen Blixin in Out of Africa.

Rest in Peace

Buddy, BK, and Blondie - Summer 2008

I remember the day we first saw little BK.  It was the first winter we were here - probably January 2007.  He was talking the entire time he walked up the front walk.  There was a yellow tiger cat that year as well (with a chewed ear).  I put food out on the front porch for them.  Later I "built" a little shelter on the deck to ward off the snow and cold winds.  BK would enter the shelter (a tarp under which I had placed a wooden drawer with a towel).  He'd use it from time to time.  

I must admit for a little guy, he was a scrapper.   He'd go away for several days (once for two weeks), and then come back skin and bones or with small wounds.  I always figured he'd been courting the girls, but since he was so small he likely got the left overs.    Eventually he adopted us as his colony - I think it was the summer of 2008.  One day the other three went outside, and he just walked in, looked around, helped himself to some food, and snuggled down on a chair.  He came and went ever since.

BK (for Black Kitty, naturally) was the best mouser I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.  He taught the others to roam along the edges of the tall grass and then pounce.  I only wish I could find a photo of BK in action, because he was terrific.   I would love watching him sit patiently beside the grass and then suddenly fly almost vertically to pounce on the unsuspecting field mouse.  They certainly were tasty treats in his mind.

He started spending more time inside than out, but then the "kitty rut" would start and off he'd go - leaving us for days or even a week or more.  But he always returned, with that distinct, plaintive cry of his.  We'd welcome him back, he'd head for the food, and then snuggle on my lap.  Who would have thought that noisy kitty of the first winter, the one who would never let me within 10 feet of him, would become a lap kitty with a terrific purr.

Today was a very sad day.  BK could not even stand up, he shook and his legs gave way.  He stayed in the cat carrier, where he'd been laying for the past two days (since Buddy's return from the vet).  He's been sick.  I knew this would be his last day.  We went outside and I put him on a towel.  After an hour or so he stood up!  He as on very shaky legs.  He didn't want to be on the towel, and left it for the boards of the deck.  

I had a couple errands to run, and returned to his shallow breathing.  I put him in the shady spot of the deck where he used to love to spend his afternoons.  His breathing slowed and his temperature was really dropping low.  I went out several times to stroke him and talk to him.  Then I went out and read to him.  He quit breathing.

Rest in Peace little one.  When you get to the other side, Wally has a big lap for you to sit in. Give my regards to Bandit and BB Gato.

"'The Masai,' he wrote,'have reported to the District Commissioner at Ngong, that many times, at sunrise and sunset, they have seen lions on Finch-Hatton's grave in the Hills.   A lion and a lioness have come there, stood, or lain, on the grave for a long time. ... After you went away, the ground around the grave was levelled out, into sort of a big terrace, I suppose that the level place makes a good site for the lions, from there they can have a view over the plain, and the cattle and game on it.'" - Isak Dinesen,  Out of Africa

 

Language

Reading "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan has prompted a new interest in the use of words in the English language.  I for one have forgotten some of the more "colorful" phrases that can be used to describe a situation or to provide a "put down" without resorting to the course words so common today.  Allow a few examples.

1.  Scrub.  Use - "A sorry Scrub," said Mr. High-mind.  Because a Scrub is a stunted tree, the phrase indicates that Mr. High-mind considers the subject to be an insignificant person.

2.  "... that your Conversation gives this your mouth-profession the lie."  The intent of this slur is that the "behavior contradicts what is said."  The character Faithful also states this truth when he said:  "I see that saying and doing are two things, and hereafter I shall better observed this distinction."

3.  Bethought.  This word is used to describe the state of the pilgrim, Christian, when he was perplexed and "...at last he bethought himself that he had slept ... ."  The footnote indicates that bethought himself meant "Remembered" but suggests a differentiation between consciousness and essence or self.  You might use this term when referring to yourself in the third person, for example.

4.  At a Stand.  This phrase is used to indicate that you are "at a loss."  

5.  Beshrew him for his counsel.  This means to curse someone for their advice, as in, "I beshrew her for telling me to buy two tickets on the maiden voyage of the Titanic."

What makes the book so much fun to read, is the use of allegorical names. In addition to Christian and Faithful, my favorite other character (and the most convicting one) has been Talkative.  

Then the ultimate - "Some said they were fools; some they were bedlams; and some they were outlandish men."  Bedlams - what a terrific term for inferring someone is mad (as in insane, not as in irate).  I am going to work more diligently at language.

"Language is the blood of the soul into which thoughts run and out of which they grow."  ~Oliver Wendell Holmes

    

Full Moon

Full moon again - happened a couple days ago.  How do I know?  BK took off again (or perhaps it was because I made him "Internet famous" with my last post - who knows).  I suspect it is the moon, however.  Probably time for one more "kitty rut" before the leaves start falling.

 Then there is the lunar effect on poor Buddy.  The little guy hasn't been feeling all that well lately (note peeing in the sink and likely tainted with kitty blood).  The moon, however, set him to looking for his "arch enemy" Black  Beauty in her normal habitat - on top of the kitchen cabinets.  Lucky for her, she was in her second favorite spot - under the bed.  I would have hated to see the confrontation above my head.

 The cats are not the only ones impacted by the current cycle.  Once again my computer is under attack.  I got an e-mail this morning from a member of my address book whom I have not contacted in a couple years.  The note thanked me for my contact and indicated he had attempted to open the link supplied, only to find it didn't work.  Gremlins?  I think not!  More Internet terrorists if you ask me.

At least the yard looks nice.  The deer seem to like it as well.  The herd is back.  The other evening at sundown it was a mom and her twins (complete with spots still showing).  These were followed by five more, including the young buck who has been hanging around.  I guess it is time to start taking measures to attempt to protect my trees.  The older ones in the yard have split bark (one of which bit the bullet during the last major wind attack and is nothing more than a stump), possibly due to the strange weather patterns of the past couple years.

Unemployment figures reported yesterday that the national average is 9.6%, while Tennessee has 9.8% and Detroit over 20%.  When the figures are adjusted for those who "have given up looking" (which I believe means run out of unemployment benefits), the actual national picture is more like 22% unemployment.  Housing starts are the lowest is more than a decade, and the market is below 10,000.  Our Vice President says that all is well, the plan is working.  Makes one wonder just what plan he is referring to, doesn't it?

"Democracy substitutes election by the incompetent many for appointment by the corrupt few."  ~George Bernard Shaw, Man and Superman, "Maxims: Education," 1905

 

Hairless

There is a breed of "hairless" cats, but BK is not one of them.  Poor thing has suffered all summer with some strange skin allergy that had him licking and licking until all the hair from his head, upper shoulders, tail, and parts of his legs was removed.  He still has some of the bumps on his skin, but in my opinion he seems to be getting better.  Of course, my eyesight isn't what it used to be either.

I am happy to report that I have conquered the interface issue (as you can now "see").  No real reason, but I did replace the batteries in my camera (I upload directly from the camera).  In any event, you now can see my poor little kitty.  To me it is amazing that a feral cat, who I could not even get within 10 feet of more than a year ago, has integrated himself into my little colony.  He purrs, sits on my lap in the evenings, frequently cuddles up near my neck at night, and is currently on the desk (tucked in behind the computer) where he has been for about 4 hours.  I guess I am an acceptable food provided.

There are symptoms of fall starting to show.  The red buds have (again) lost most of their leaves (early), the so-called grass (i.e., green stuff that requires mowing) is turning brown in areas and growth is slowing, and sometimes the breeze seems to be coming from the WNW.  Then there are the yard visitors.  They were not around during the beastly hot/humid days, but have returned.  Last night as the dark descended there were five (one just loosing its spots).  I just hope the white stuff holds off until January.

"This was one of those perfect New England days in late summer where the spirit of autumn takes a first stealing flight, like a spy, through the ripening country-side, and, with feigned sympathy for those who droop with August heat, puts her cool cloak of bracing air about leaf and flower and human shoulders."  ~Sarah Orne Jewett

 

STUPID!

OK - the title might refer to me.  Then again, it might not.

For the past two days I have attempted to update this blog.  Attempted being the operative word.  

I have photos to upload.  The "system" won't cooperate.  Not certain if it is the browser or the website or some unruly combination.  It is frustrating, however.  

Let's top this week off with heat and humidity.  That always puts me in a different mood.  The beginning of the week was great - including three runs outside.  None today or yesterday - our friends the "Twin H's" have returned.  See dismay on my face.

Maybe tomorrow or even later tonight.  Maybe it will rain.  Maybe people in hell will finally get ice water.

"Patience:  A minor form of despair disguised as a virtue."  ~Ambrose Bierce

 

Egad - Mid-August Already!?

 Hard to believe that summer is in its waning days.  Especially hard since once again the temperatures are in the 90s and the "feels like" temperature is well over 100.  This weather has not been good and the yard is a visual reminder of the work left undone.

Staying inside has its drawbacks.  Too much time to contemplate the lack of suitable openings for employment, listen to the "talking heads" describe the lessening of unemployment followed with a down surge in the stock market prices, and generally waste a good bit of each day.  

Yesterday saw a tad bit of activity around the place.  Two batches of zucchini bread (a total of 5 loaves and a dozen in cupcake form).  That took care of one mammoth zucchini from Jean's garden.  What to do with the remaining behemoths that now grace my counter is another question.  Depending on my level of ambition I may grate at least one of these large vegetables and then freeze 2 cups in individual bags (2 cups being the amount called for in one batch of the zucchini bread recipe).  

There are tomatoes as well.  I am now thinking more spaghetti sauce, but made with chopped up zucchini.  That should freeze in individual servings, making fall/winter meals easy.  Did I mention that I have already prepared for the oven a mixture of celery soup, rice, zucchini, and chopped tomatoes seasoned with basil and assorted other Italian herbs.
 
With the current ambient conditions, however, turning on the oven or stove top brings a rolling sweat to my brow.  I am holding out for a drop in the humidity.  So far the local weather forecasters have been wrong.  The temperatures and humidity were to have dropped by now, following predicted showers.  Well, the rain did "drop" by last evening about 9 pm, but didn't stay.   Clearly, the humidity was only encouraged by the wetting of the vegetation.  In fact, the brown areas I mowed on Thursday now seem to be a brilliant green (this does not bode well - more time on the "craps-man" is in my future).

"A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken."  ~James Dent

Flushed!

Scatology - what a fine word.  It has always been one of my personal favorites.  Finally, I have read a book that actually used the word. 


I must admit, I thought the book would have been a tad more technical when I selected it; however, since I found it in a "general reading" bookstore and not from a professional society website or college bookstore, I should have known better.  Yet this book did clear up a few misconceptions I had about sewer systems and the like.

My favorite part was a discussion of euphemisms used to describe the "toilet" - including the "crapper."  For one, I had always been lead to believe that the device referred to as the "porcelain pony" was invented by Thomas Crapper.  I was wrong.
 
According to  Hodding Carter, the author of "Flushed," the origins of the modern "water closet" was Sir John Harington in 1596.  Crapper merely improved on the device.

Then the story got interesting:

"Crapper was a simple plumber and manufacturer, but we know his name so well because his toilet was the most popular brand in England during the First World War.  Our doughboys, it is guessed, would announce they were going to the 'Crapper.'  The euphemism crossed the ocean when they came home.  By some strange coincidence, crap, as a slang for feces, was used long before Crapper came on the scene  Etymologists believe it was derived from the Dutch word krappen, which means to cut off, and its earliest known written usage was in 1846, when Thomas Crapper was only ten years old.  This is a perfect example of an aptronym, a name that is suited to the profession of its owner."


The book also suggests that it was the influence of Christianity that caused people to become so "concerned" about their bodily wastes and caused us to move to a private situation for elimination.  Apparently, the early Romans had entire rooms without dividers in which people would sit and eliminate while discussing local matters of interest with their fellow "poopers."  


I laughed out loud at parts of the book.  Other sections were very interesting and actually informative.  In fact, I have started daydreaming (again) about building a house that will minimize the use of water to remove "waste" material from the bathroom fixture used to remove digested materials from the body.  I certainly will keep you informed on this exciting endeavour.


And that, dear reader, is your scatological lesson for today.  Enjoy your private time on the throne and think of Thomas Crapper.

"Camping:  The art of getting closer to nature while getting farther away from the nearest cold beverage, hot shower and flush toilet."  ~Author Unknown

Summer

Yes, it is HOT!  Just ask Buddy.  Poor thing has been suffering again.  I finally caved and turned on the air conditioning again today (we are under another heat advisory with the index well over 100).  I know, some of you say, "big deal" that is spring weather here.  I say, try our humidity sometime and then comment.

Even with the air conditioning, I have to turn on a fan next to my desk.  Partially, this is because the register that delivers the cooled air is next to the desk and requires redirection to reach most of the great room.

In spite of the heat, however, I can't keep Blondie in the house.  She prefers the garage and will spend the entire day snoozing on the concrete floor.  

BK remains MIA - and this time could be permanent.  He has been gone for a week plus.  I am sad.  He really is a pretty good kitty.  Besides, none of the others have been hunting in the tall grasses for the mice.  Black Beauty is missing a couple teeth, so that is one excuse.  The other being the HEAT!

"Heat, ma'am! it was so dreadful here, that I found there was nothing left for it but to take off my flesh and sit in my bones."  ~Sydney Smith, Lady Holland's Memoir

Rainbows

The other day after an afternoon shower a rainbow appeared in the sky.  Not too unusual, but their appearances always make me stop and look.

This time I also managed to snap a few photos.  I have pictures of rainbows that appeared over Guam many years ago, and they were just as amazing as the one over Illinois on Sunday.


What was different this time was my reaction to the sight.  Instead of merely admiring the arc and its colors, I actually thought about Noah and the rainbow at the end of the flood.  As I recall, the rainbow was to signify a promise to never destroy the earth by water.  


My cynical self has reared its ugly presence and said, that is certain.  Next time the downfall will be caused by governments.  Of course, the Old Testament is full of stories related to bad government and the ultimate demise of same.  

I am thinking the rainbow that was here was sent to cheer me up.  After all, I have not been in the best of moods recently.  The weather is part of the cause, I am certain (particularly since I am not alone - my walking partner has suffered the same case of the blahs).  As many know, I am not a fan of hot and sticky weather (so why, you might ask, am I living in the humidity capital of the US - i.e., the Midwest).  I am not inclined to run during this type of atmospheric condition, and outside effort is more than I can stand.


On the other hand, there was a "double rainbow" on Sunday.  Maybe there is an extra special message there - like August will be like September (not so humid).  That is certainly something to brighten my mood.


Then again, just seeing a rainbow makes me smile.  Something about the colors.

"The best thing one can do when it's raining is to let it rain."  ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The Mundane

Some days are just "ordinary."  Ask my Mom - she believes (on many days) that her life is now "boring."  It seems to be the same stuff day in and day out - she visits her best friend in the nursing home on most days, she reads books selected from the local library (noting that most come from the fiction shelves, with the exception of biographies), a couple times each week she heads to the grocery store (bananas and cream are the usual culprits that require replenishment), hair appointment on Friday mornings, housekeeper comes on Tuesdays, and church on Sunday.  Of course, there are the dinners out with an extended family member (generally my sister's mother-in-law, another 80-something), and biweekly trips to Terra Haute (with the same 80-something person who can still go there without getting lost) when they "handle the goods" and then eat.

Mom's day begins (according to her) when Beavis (the cat) wakes her up at 7 AM (even when the time shifts from daylight savings to standard or vice versa).  She rises and feeds him.  Then, on nice days, takes him out to the gazebo to watch the birds and traffic (Mom has forgotten that BB Gato was the cat that always wanted to go to the gazebo and Beavis stayed inside - but BB is gone now).  There is the morning paper to read and about 11 AM the mail shows up, keeping Mom occupied for at least an hour as she patiently opens each request for money and then neatly places all the paperwork back into the respective envelops before stuffing the entire mess into a plastic bag, which she will save for varying lengths of time until one or both daughters arrive and sort to toss.

I am not sure who's day has the more mundane activities.  My "exciting" but normal day starts by walking with neighbors (at 7 AM, Monday through Thursday and Saturday - unless one has to wash her hair, get an oil change, or some other activity that would preclude the half hour for walking), then coffee for a couple hours while checking e-mails and completing the daily tasks (watering Audrey, feed cats,fill fountains, visit the Animal Rescue website, read the daily Proverb, and so forth).  This leads to the normal activity of search for job leads and sending resumes electronically.

The weekly activities include mowing the so called grass (which requires a minimum of 3 hours each week), doing the laundry (including hanging on the line to dry except in months where the ambient temperature stays below freezing), grocery shopping (after church usually - no reason to make extra trips to town), cleaning the house (my goal is to complete one room a day, and that doesn't ever seem to happen), review pending bills and pay same, and attempt to complete one book each week (complete is the operative word, because there are always several "in progress").  


My Outlook "task list" sets my goals for each day.  I have several "tasks" that have lingered on the list for more than a year, however.  The basement is the biggest one - it really needs to be cleaned and the rest of my college notebooks tossed, along with other times not essential to my well being.  My next house will NOT have a basement - too convenient to drop stuff there and "store" indefinitely, or until the sump pump fails.


The best part about a mundane schedule is being guilt free when I get distracted by kitties, a news item on the radio or television, deer or other wildlife in the yard, or nice weather that harkens me to the deck or porch for reading instead of checking off tasks.  What the heck, the list will still be there tomorrow.

'Now that it's all over, what did you really do yesterday that's worth mentioning?'  ~Coleman Cox (author)

 

The Gift of Words

While in the North Country, my cousin gave me the gift of words.  Not just any words - but words that my dad collected.  Dad kept notebooks of words that he found interesting.  Some are arcane, some are foreign, and many were of the "nasty" bent.  But all are worthy of use (in the proper context, naturally).

Dad would collect the words and the look for opportunities to use them.  He would slide them into conversations or drop them into memorandum he sent forth to the corporate office.  

I am not certain where he picked up the words.  Some clearly came from articles he read (because portions of articles are found in the notebook).  Others I assume came from his extensive reading.

What words you ask?  Here are a sampling few:  lacuna, polemic, jejune, and flerd.  He also collected phrases and names of people generally forgotten, such as Daedalus (see the movie "Space Cowboys" for a reference to this person).  Phrases such as:  "...at the price of scrumching the rest of the menu..." found in Newsweek.

This is a true treasure.  I have my own notebook and keep an electronic list of similar phrases, words, and quotes.  The lost art of writing should be regained and words should reign supreme.

"The meaning was as clear as a hawser at midnight during a cloudy night." - John D. Longfield

The "F's" of July 4th

The drive to North Country was uneventful, if not rather time consuming.  While on the drive I wondered what the holiday would bring.  Usually, the gathering of the clan results in a wide range of tales to be told and relived.  As it was, this year fulfilled all  those expectations (and then some).

One of the highlights (you might say) was meeting "Fido" - the first "F" of the holiday.  Actually, the lovely German shepherd's name is GRAYLING - like the town, camp, and all but extinct fish.  Fabulous dog - well mannered and even tempered (good thing given the events of the holiday).

Rather than detailing all, I will highlight the memorable "F's."  In addition to meeting Grayling, the number one F would be Family.  I arrived at my Aunt's in time for the cocktail hour.  That was followed by the first of three fantastic meals served by her.  

The small kitchen saw numerous people attending to food preparation during the three days I was in attendance.  Activities in that area were time of good conversation, but focused on the meal to be served.  After eating, dishes were done and folks relaxed on the deck for more conversation.   

Speaking of the deck, another F comes to mind - Fathers.  My uncle (who is in his mid-80s now) is the father of four, all of whom were in attendance.  Three of the sons are also fathers, and each had one or more off-spring at the gathering.  The relationships between fathers and progeny can be complicated, and this holiday proved to expose some of the complexities.  I suppose some people are better prepared (at the DNA level) to be parents. 

Other holiday "F's" include floating, friends, and free time.  First, the giant float.  On July 4th the clan gathered on the Main Branch of the Au Sable for a float.  We are very fortunate that this blogger does not have photographs from the trip.  Suffice to say, when we rafted together, the person in the kayak was responsible to maintaining the "float" free from river threats.  Sometimes she was successful and, ... well, the last I saw of the "river guide" on stream was when she was hung up on a tree because the cooler she pulled had snagged a sunken log (Austin to the rescue).

Friends were waiting on the deck when the clan returned to dry land.  These were Shelia's parents (Nick and Pauline).  What fun!  Another great meal, and then off to the river for a late evening float.  Great Independence Day.

Monday threatened rain.  John and I visited Raleigh and Sparkle at Wakely Lake.  Rain poured as we returned to the cabin.  More food in the evening.


Then escape to the North Branch with an intervening stop at the former Hard Times.  Teri and I had a rousing (if not almost as long as a tennis match) game of pool.  That would be classified as more fun.  Then it was time for a quiet evening on the North Branch.  Turned in early to prepare for the marathon drive back the next morning.

Tuesday morning was quiet - shared a couple cups of coffee and some conversation with Jim (his kids were still asleep and Uncle left for a round of golf).  After a quick stop on the Main Branch for toast, coffee, and a care package, it was time to head out of town.  I grabbed my book (which kept being left behind when I returned to the North Branch each evening) and hit the road.  

That leads me to the last "F" - forest.  The trip up was peaceful, but when the pines began to dominate the landscape, my heart beat picked up.  It always does - that is the signal that the North Country is close.  On the return, I was able to admire the tall, stately lodge pines and contemplated the events of the holiday.  

Unemployment and/or lack of work affects each person in a different manner.  Some give up and seek methods to keep the reality from their consciousness.  Others keep the faith and continue in good spirits to look for a change in the situation, while others prepare for the worst case and consider options that will have long-term consequences.  Interesting to think about the different approaches from a group who share aspects of DNA. 

"Man is the only creature that refuses to be what he is."  ~Albert Camus