One More Sleep

Maggie and the girls are currently gathering their belongings and will soon hit the road. It's been a great 4 days with them and it will certainly be a little lonelier and a lot quieter without them. How am I going to get along with just Jim for the next day. At least I have the anticipation and excitement of seeing my babies in about 30 hours  to get me through. 

Yesterday we got a lovely little storm to close out our week. It hit just as Maggie and I were thinking about cooking and of course the power went out. There wasn't even any lightning or thunder so why? Thankfully, after about an hour, just as things were clearing out (I'd just lit the grill to cook there instead of the stove top) a double rainbow appeared over the Bay and the electricity miraculously came back on. It was kismet. 

In the aftermath of the storms that rolled through northern Ohio, we're left with a lovely wind and rough lake. My fave. The windows are open and it's absolutely lovely. 

Plans today for Jim and me: After the ladies leave, I'll shower and then Jim and I will head downtown to have lunch. I told Jim he could chose and I have a feeling he's going to go for either Frostys (pizza) or Mossbacks. Mossbacks isn't my favorite but I'll deal. After that, we'll come home and do a little cleaning to make tomorrow morning a little easier. Beyond that, we might go to the pool or just hang here. Tonight we'll eat leftovers for dinner because there's a lot and most likely watch the Reds, go to bed early in order to arise early and hit the road. 

I'll be back up here during Maggie and Charlie's time in early August, the week before I...UGH...go...back...to...I just can't say it...I'm just not ready! 

Okay well, it's time to see if Maggie needs some help rallying these girls. Happy Friday! Safe travels to Maggie and the girls today and safe travels to Jim and I tomorrow. Later!

How Do People Do It?

I follow a person on Instagram who lives in California and recently took a month-long road trip with her husband and 4 kids. Literally they went from California to the East Coast via Texas and then back again through the northern part of the U.S.; Iowa up through the Dakotas and then Montana...I mean what an amazing trip that must've been. I wouldn't want to do that (driving sucks) but hey, to each his own. My point in brining this up is that they have a dog that did not travel with them and I just don't understand how they did it. I miss my boys like crazy and I've not been gone a week. I'm hoping that my boys aren't missing me like I'm missing them. I'm sure they aren't waking up in the middle of the night like me with constant thoughts about them and hoping they're okay and not thinking I've abandoned them. It's truly awful! And don't get me wrong! I know that Diane is taking such good care of them and I trust her completely it's just...they're my babies!!!

So today should be a little less beautiful than we've had as the clouds are starting to move in and they're saying we may get afternoon storms. I'm hoping the wind kicks up and that we do get a storm because you know I love a storm...in PIB...not at my house. Storms are headed toward Loveland too which makes me nervous. On the one hand I'm glad I'm not there but on the other, I don't want Diane to be worried. 

The plans for the day: I've already worked out and Maggie and I took a little walk with Birdie. We're now having a mimosas while we make breakfast. The girls are still sleeping and probably will be for a while because they were up LATE! (They woke me up at 12:30 running around like little nuts.) I'm sure there will be some paddle boarding for them but I'm not feeling the wave runner today. It just stresses me out a bit with battery being so temperamental. Plus it needs gas and I don't want to do that on my own. Other than that, who knows. Maybe the pool if it stays somewhat nice for a bit. Tacos for dinner. 

Maggie and the kids leave tomorrow (sad face) and Jim and I will have Friday on our own. We'll certainly do some cleaning in prep to leave but I'm sure it will just be a chill day. Maybe more pool time for Muwee. Who knows.

Okay well, my mimosa needs refreshing so I'd best take care of that. Happy Thursday! Two more days! Hold on Scout and Boo...it won't be long now! Later!

Lots Of Girl Time

These girls that Eva brought up to the Bay (Meg and Brooklyn) are sure a lot of fun! They are great girls and somehow seem to rope me into joining their fun. It's exhausting. So far we enjoyed going out on the paddle boarding, wave running and we've had plenty of pool time. Listening to them scream and giggle behind me on the wave runner warms my heart. I know teenaged girls can be a handful but they are pure fun. Additionally threesomes can be tricky but they don't seem to have problem as they all get along famously. 

Monday: We hung out, went to the pool and made dinner at home. It was pretty chill and as I was exhausted, we were in bed pretty early. 

Tuesday: Maggie, the girls and I went out on the lake paddle boarding and then headed to the pool. The girls went shopping while Maggie and I took a kitty cat nap and watched some Nicolle. Last night we went to The Crew's Nest for dinner and it was lovely. The girls were going gaga over one of the waiters and then of course they had to show me all the guys (famous) they have crushes on. I feel like an old lady especially when I see these boys and my first comment was, "I don't understand their hair." Seriously, the latest guy hair style is so stupid. I told Maggie they look like they've got the Flying Nun's habit on their heads. So weird. 

The replacement table was just delivered and Jim ended up roping them into helping him move the Victory Hotel pilon onto the seawall. He made it into a table and covers the hole that was there. It looks a bit weird sitting out there all by itself but whatever. 

Okay, time to head to the pool. I'll try to remember to post again tomorrow. I sure miss the boys and feel bad about all the storms that Diane's had to deal with but what're you going to do. 

Monday At The Bay

Currently, I'm sitting in my favorite spot at the Bay, looking at the water and eagerly awaiting Maggie's arrival. Doug and Lauren are still here but are leaving some time today. Lauren is out on the deck on a conference call. Jim's washing the window screens (his favorite thing to do). It's a lovely morning. 

We arrived on Saturday and caught the 9:30 ferry. Dad and Becky were just about to leave but decided to wait around to say hi and bye. Jim and I then unpacked everything and went to lunch at the Reel Bar. We came back and took a nap. I'd been awake since 3:00 so I needed it especially with Doug and Lauren coming up, knowing we would be partaking in some cocktails and cards and I needed to be at my best. 

Doug and Lauren - after a lot of back and forth because Naomi, their daughter, was having some issues - finally made it up and caught the 3:00 ferry. We had dinner at home and played cards before going to bed. 

Sunday, I got up and worked out and after we all showered, we headed to Frostys for breakfast. We then came home and Doug and I tooled around on the wave runner. It's running great. It was a really hazy day but good enough for the pool so we spent about an hour there. Doug and I attempted to climb the "rock wall". I made it up on one side but couldn't on the other. Doug wasn't successful on either side. It certainly looks a lot easier than it is and the dumb kids continued to show us up over and over. 

From there we went to lunch, well, actually appetizers, at the Crews Nest so as not to ruin our dinner. We originally went to The Boardwalk, Upper Deck, but the prices were so outrageous, we got up and left. Seriously, they wanted to charge $23 for a salad. I mean give me a fucking break. We ended up going to Hoolihan's and it was okay. 

Home after than where we played more cards and maybe had a few cocktails. 

Maggie is on her way up and hopes to make the 9:30. Eva's bringing 2 friends with her which will be so nice for her. Our plans will probably just include the pool today and dinner at home. I'm not sure what Maggie will want to have but we have lots of options. 

I would go have a mimosa but want to wait for Maggie to get here before I partake. 

And that's it. I'll post again tomorrow. Happy Monday. It's Monday, right? Later!

Rant

I'm going to rant here for a minute so brace yourself. 

As I mentioned yesterday Jim and I went to dinner last night at Eddie Merlot's with Jim's brother. (Les cancelled.) Our reservations were at 5:45 and of course, Fritz was 15 minutes late, which isn't a biggie in itself. When he showed up, he sort of looked a mess. I don't mean to be critical but it looked like he'd just rolled out of bed. For example, his shirt was misbuttoned and he even missed buttoning a button right, smack dab at his belly. Typical. I still had hopes, however, that the evening would be a good one so I tried not to be judgy. 

Entering the restaurant, Fritz was carrying a large box with Jim's name written all over it. Sitting down, he proceeded to open it and start pulling out all kinds of shit of Jim's from his childhood: drawn pictures, pictures of Jim on Santa's lap, postcards etc. It was cute but not exactly the best place to unpack and reminisce. He finally put it away and announced how full and tired he was. He'd just woken up (yeah, it shows) and he'd had a late lunch at Skyline where he'd "done it up". Um...okay...you knew you were coming here for dinner. WTF? He stated he was probably just going to get a salad and a small steak. (He ended up getting the 18oz bison, bone in Ribeye. K...not so full I guess.)

The evening proceeded with us talking about Fritz's life in San Francisco. The weather in San Francisco. Fritz's job. Fritz's plans to travel. Fritz's love life (or lack thereof). Fritz's car rental. Fritz's health scare earlier this year. Now, I'm not one to talk about myself a ton and I try to ask questions about the person I'm having a conversation with and usually that's reciprocated but not last night. Not one question was asked about me or Jim or what we've been up to or how my job is. Nothing. And then - and I can't remember what the actual topic was because I'd just come back from the bathroom - but I hear Fritz say something along the lines of, "Here's the issue with women..." and I looked at him, laughed loudly and said, "Are you about to school me about women?" 

The real kicker was when I got back from the bathroom, the check had been dropped. I waited a few minutes to see what Fritz would do and I waited and I waited and I waited. Now, I don't mind paying...it isn't about that but he made no move to offer to pay or even ask what his share was. It was so...thoughtless but so Fritz and unfortunately it's what I've come to expect and I guess I'm the fool to think otherwise. 

On the ride home I didn't say a word to Jim about my irritation although I'm sure he felt it. It isn't Jim's fault his brother is a narcissistic jackass. I tried to let my irritation wane before saying anything and all I said was, "I think I'm going to skip any future get togethers with Fritz for a while." It just isn't good for my brain. 

Okay my rant is over. I have a full day today getting ready to go to PIB. It's so crazy that I've not done much this time around in prep and I've left most of it for today. Oh well. All I really need to do is a little bit of laundry, clean the house, go to the grocery, go to the bank, gas up and pack. For the most part, dinners will be easy (I did get the pork marinated for a meal yesterday) and Maggie will take care of one night as well as getting breakfast foods. I'm hoping that by lunch time, most of my jobs will be done with the exception of packing my suitcase (I'll save that for later). 

The plans tomorrow are to be on the road by about 6:00. I anticipate a bit of a line at the ferry since it's Jeep Invasion weekend (annoying). I'm not in a huge rush to get there since the weather Saturday isn't going to be great all I care about is just being there. Who knows when Doug and Lauren are going to arrive but I'm not going to let that stress me out or interfere in my good time while there. 

I do plan on taking my computer up so I'll probably post while there...lucky you! 

Oh, if you haven't watch The Bear on Hulu you must! I finished season 2 yesterday and am just in awe over it. So good! And they were just nominated for 24 Emmys! 

K - I'm out. time to get a move on. Happy Friday! Safe travels to us! Later!

Dentist, Storm, and GMA @ PIB

I have an 8 AM dentist appointment so this is going to have to be quick. It's a reschedule because my original appointment was set for next week when I'm in PIB. As a result, I got up early - my alarm was set for 5:30. I ended up getting up before my alarm went off, however, because as I was getting kisses from Scout and giving him some love back I saw that there was a lightning show going on outside and my cushions were out on the deck. So, I hustled out of bed, and scampered around stowing shit. The storm hit, was quick and not bad but when I got off the elliptical there was a giant branch in the backyard. That tree needs to go before it goes on its own and takes out our fence and Florida room. 

Ooh, Maggie just called to tell me that GMA is going to be airing the stuff they filmed yesterday at Put-in-Bay. I saw that they'd been there but thought it was on yesterday and that I'd missed it. Exciting! On the one hand that's so great but on the other, I don't want MORE tourists there getting on my nerves. I know the island relies on the tourist business but sometimes it's just annoying and people get in my way. 

In other news Jim and I are headed out to dinner tonight at Eddie Merlot's with his brother and Les (most likely). I look forward to a lovely meal and I know Jim's excited about a steak. Not sure I'll get a steak but who knows? Why go to a steak house and not get steak? We'll see. 

My tire installation went well yesterday. It took just under 2 hours but during that time, Jim came and picked me up and we had lunch at Condado's. It was delicious. They've got a great lunch special (2 tacos, chips and one of their dips) for $14. I may have had a Negro Modelo as well. Yummy. 

And that's all I've got. I'll be doing some prep work for PIB today after my dentist appointment. Happy Thursday. Later!

New Tires, Lunch W/ The Hubby & Humidity

It's not that humid yet but it's coming and I can feel it. Coming back from walking the dogs, I'm soaked. Oh well, for the most part I'll be inside today with the errands I have to do. 

At 10:00 I have my appointment to get my new tires and weirdly I'm pretty excited about it. With those, an oil change and a new fuel pump (recall) I'll feel good (knock on wood) and safe in my car. Not that I didn't but she's almost 5 years old so I get nervous sometimes that something could suddenly go wrong. 

Because I'll be at the Kings Auto Mall and Jim's working in Deerfield (right near where I'll be) I told him I'd call when I finish and we can go out to lunch. Hmm...what am I in the mood for? I might let Jim decide...maybe. 

Yesterday my pool get together got cancelled because Angie wasn't feeling great. We've rescheduled for the 25th. I can't say I was all that bummed. It allowed me to hang out at home in the comfort of my own backyard and turn up my tan. Granted I didn't/don't have a pool to keep me from melting but I did have my cobra mister going and was just fine. 

Jim's dinner also got cancelled with Les yesterday so he was home for dinner. We ended up having one of my go-to WW meals: Grilled Thai pork chops with long grain wild rice and some Brussel sprouts. It was yummy. Tonight I'll either do an air fryer lemon chicken or a broccoli and chick pea stir fry. The stir fry doesn't have meat and I'll make that tonight if we end up somewhere not-so-healthy for lunch. 

Did I mention I'm listening to Andy Cohen's newest book: The Daddy Diaries: The Year I Grew Up? I've read two of his other books and thoroughly enjoyed them. I watch a lot of the shows he produces so there's that connection but mostly the books aren't about that. They're more about his daily life. This book is his best because I love hearing about his journey as a parent; as a single gay dad. Plus he's funny and man, the people he knows and hangs with. I'd certainly recommend. 

Oh, I was perusing Facebook and Instagram yesterday and saw that this weekend is the Jeep Invasion at PIB. Ugh! The ferry is going to be a fucking disaster. I've decided NOT to change my plan of leaving around 6:00 but I'm not too hopeful that we'll get on a 10:00 ferry. I'm sure there's going to be a nutty line. Oh well, I'll just have to make sure I have plenty of roadie mimosas ready for consumption. 

And that's all I've got. Time to get showered and ready to head to the dealership. I'm hoping it doesn't take much more than an hour for my new tires. 

Happy Wednesday! Later!

Tires, Pool Time and Dinner On My Own

I mean of course they're now coming out with new findings about Ozempic and how it affects your mental health. Namely they're saying there could be an increase in suicide. Ugh! Always too "good" to be true when it comes to weight loss. 

Yesterday was productive and I think after I finished posting in the morning, I didn't sit down again until about 4:00. I went to the car dealership and asked how long the fuel pump was going to take. She told me at least a couple hours so I said I'd just put that on hold. She replied with, "Well, I could give you a loaner at no cost." HOT DOG! So for a couple hours I had a Crosstrek to drive around and it was a sweet little car. From the dealership I headed to Costco then Aldi, headed home to unload groceries and got a bunch of laundry done. As I was getting shit done around the house, service called about the car. Everything was good except I need new tires. (I knew it! I asked Jim about this a couple weeks ago and he said, "They're fine.") She quoted me at about $900 for a set (which included install etc.) with 85K mile guarantee (that's a lot) but I needed to price them out and so I told her to skip it, I'd do some research and then make another appointment if I decided to go with them. 

At that point, my car was ready so I headed back to the dealership, got my car, headed back home and then completed my exercise routine. Jim got home while I was doing that (around 3:30) and once I hopped off my elliptical, I did dinner prep. (Ended up having chicken parm pie and a salad). I had just fed the dogs and camped out on the back deck with my book when Lauren texted from my front porch saying, "Are you coming out?" Apparently she got stuck listening to a mind numbing story from Jim (I'd gotten the story earlier in the day) and was texting for rescue. So off I went to hang for a bit with her. 

Oh, BTW - I did research tires at 3 other places in the area and the dealership is the better deal. They're tires were at least $20 cheaper per tire on every brand I looked at for my car and none of them had the 85K guarantee. Bam! I'll go in tomorrow at 10 and be all set. 

Today I'm headed over to a work friend's pool to hang with her and another gal from school. Should be fun. I'm sure there's lots to discuss especially since the union pres sent an email out saying they had gotten a tentative contract agreement. He said we can all rest assure that the deal is going to be one we're satisfied with. Yeah, we'll see. I'm not going to count my chickens. 

Tonight Jim is supposed to go out to dinner with Les so I'm on my own. Fine with me. I'll probably just have leftovers. 

And that's about all I've got...time to take a bike ride. Maggie, Charlie and Eva come home late tonight so safe travels to them. Happy Tuesday! Later!

Home Sweet Home

I'm back at home and have been since about 10:15 on Saturday. I really enjoyed my 3 days at Maggie's, it was relaxing and nice to have some just-me time. However, by the last day, I was feeling a bit lonely, which is new to me. I've always said I could live, by myself, with just me and some pups, no problem. Having 3 full days of wandering around Maggie's house with just Birdie and Buster to talk to illustrated that total alone time might not be all that satisfying. I missed Jimmy (go figure). Granted, I did get out and see and hang out with Mom, but for the most part, I was on my own. It's an interesting thing to figure out that what you thought about yourself isn't true. Deep, huh? 

Saturday was pretty chill. Jim and I had lunch at Shooters and then came home. I ended up getting a massive headache around 3:00 and had to nurse that for a few hours. Doug and Lauren wanted to get together for cards but I just wasn't feeling it. When I finally did start to recover, Cari, my other neighbor was in her driveway hanging so I went over there for a quick chat. She'd just returned from Columbus where she'd been for the day to attend her uncle's funeral. He shot himself earlier last week at the age of 67. There was some depression that he'd historically had but the family and his college buddies think there's a real possibility of CTE from repeated concussions when he played football in high school and college. So sad. 

Sunday was chill. I made a big breakfast and then took Scout on a walk and then took a long bike ride. I was going to mow the front yard (it's so long) but had run out of steam. Instead I took a bath. When I got out, Jim told me that his friend Les was on his way over to watch the Reds game. It was good to see him. He lives in San Francisco and has just left his job (he's a lawyer) and is taking a sabbatical and travelling. His mother's husband just died so he's here for just over a week, he'll then go to Chicago and the plan from there is to schedule a couple international trips. He's married but they're splitting up so he's in midst of starting to live a single life again. So interesting that dynamic. I sort of grilled him about it and he was cool with my questions. I wondered what it must be like living in his house right now with the both of them knowing things were over. I wondered if it was contentious. But then as we were sitting in my family room watching the Reds, Scout was draped over the couch arm just gazing at Les, and he was smitten with him. He took a picture and said, "I have to send this pic to Tanda (his wife)...she just loves a scruffy dog." So I guess they're still friends. People are weird. Or maybe they're not.

Today I have to take my car in for an oil change, tire rotation and then a recall on my fuel pump. Jim made the appointment for me and was supposed to find out how long the whole thing would take since I'll be waiting there but he forgot to ask. I'll ask when I get there and if the fuel pump takes too long, I'll have to pass for another time. 

I'm not sure what's for dinner tonight...maybe mahi mahi...I have it written down on my menu but I can remember and it's in my purse and I don't feel like getting up right now to check because in reality, I'm sure no one really cares. Maggie would care but she's probably not reading this as she's still in Belize. 

Okay, I'm out. I need to get in the shower and get ready to head to the dealership. Happy Monday! Later!

Day 2 Columbus Vacay

Yesterday was a good day. It started with a long walk with Birdie then a trip out with Mom to Half Price and Walmart. Mom stocked up on books and should be set for a while. I got two books and since I also got a bunch from Mom I'm set for a while myself. From there I hopped over to Walmart to get a few rafts and also picked up a couple workout shirts. I then took Mom home and hopped in the pool to do some laps before the rain hit. 

We had a nice soaking rain which started around 1:00 yesterday and I laid on the couch and read for several hours. It was so nice. 

After dinner, I was sitting watching an episode of Queen Charlotte when I got a text from Jenny, Maggie's neighbor and good friend who lives behind them. She wanted to know if I'd like to have a glass of wine out by the pool. SURE! So she and her husband Dave came over and we sat listening to music, drinking wine and talking for a bit. I was in bed, I think, by about 10:00 or so. 

I was up around 7:00 this morning and just finished walking Birdie. My plan for today is to hang at the pool. Mom called yesterday around dinner time to tell me that Tom and Karen (my cousin and his wife) are coming in today rather than Saturday like Mom had thought. Apparently they'll be here around 10:00. I'd expect they'll come over to hang for a bit. 

Not much else is happening here. I'll be heading home tomorrow in the morning. It's been so lovely and relaxing but I'm missing my boys and can't wait to see them. 

Oh, I started listening to Andy Cohen's latest book The Daddy Diaries. It's funny. He reads it himself and it's a good listen. 

Okay well, that's all I've got. I think I'll make myself a little something for breakfast before I get in the pool to do some laps. Happy Friday! Later!

Columbus Vacay Day 1

Man oh man! Yesterday was everything I'd hoped it'd be. I got here around 10:15. After unloading all my stuff, saying hi to the pups and letting them out, I took Birdie for a quick 1-lap jaunt around the park. She barely made it that far even with several sips of water because the humidity was stupid thick. After that, it was time for lunch so I had a quick bite and then headed out to the pool. From noon to around 3:00, that's where you could find me. I did some laps, I laid on my back, I laid on my stomach, I achieved a nice bit of color! 

At 3:00, I went in and readied myself for a visit with mom. I got there just before 4:00 and we had a nice chat and a couple cocktails. I returned home to the pups around 5:30 and we all sat out in the backyard until it was time for dinner. I just had my pulled pork leftovers, slaw and an ear of corn. After cleaning up, I sat down to watch a little TV (episode 3 of Queen Charlotte, which is a prequel for Bridgerton). Around 9:00 I headed to bed and that's when the lawn people arrived. I didn't expect them until today but I'm happy they came and cranked out the mowing so I won't have to worry about them again. Of course I had to wait until they were all done so I could check the gates. I'm glad I did because they didn't quite latch the one side gate effectively. 

I slept pretty good, only waking up at 3:15 and laying there for a bit before falling back to sleep and getting up at 6:30. I've walked Birdie (she did better today...nearly 3 miles) and after I finish this I'll do some ab and arm work, shower and head over to Mom's. We're going to Half Priced Books when they open and then I need to go over to Walmart to see if they have any rafts because everything here at the Egbert resort is deflated and not great for lounging. 

Dinner tonight: Maggie has a bunch of leftovers in her fridge so I'll probably have something in there.

And that's about all I've got. It's a lovely day right now but is supposed to cloud up and rain/storm later. We'll see. Tomorrow should be nice though. 

K - I'm out...time to finish my workout. Happy Thursday! Later! 

A Little Getaway

It may be just an hour and a half away but I do feel like heading to Maggie's for a few days will be a nice little getaway from the humdrum days of late. Other than hanging with the pups and Mom, my plans are to hang by the pool for as long as the weather holds. I think tomorrow is going to be a bit stormy but that's okay. 

Yesterday was fine...boring really. Basically I hung out at home, packed, read. Jim worked on the bench that he made for the island - it needed new legs. Around 4:00 or so, we played some cards with Doug and Lauren. We broke around 6:00 to eat at our respective houses with plans to reconvene for another round of euchre but by 7:30, Jim had had it and was ready for bed. He didn't nap yesterday and has to work early today so I gave him a pass. I went back out to Doug and Lauren's driveway for a bit but really didn't want to be out there with all the idiots lighting off fireworks. It's so annoying and obnoxious. Especially when they set them off before it's even dark. I mean what's the point if you can barely see them? Is it just the noise they like? Whatever...I don't get it. 

I slept like shit...sort of. I woke up just before 4:00 and couldn't get back to sleep. Eventually I did but it couldn't have been for long when my alarm went off at 6:00. I've walked the boys and after I finish this I'll do a little ab workout then shower and get my shit together and hit the road. 

My plans when I get to Maggie's are to give Birdie a little walk and then sit by the pool maybe do some laps. I'll head to Mom's just before 4:00 and watch the first hour of Nicolle Wallace with her. Dinner tonight: I'm taking some leftovers with me and some pork chops to grill up so one of those...whichever floats my boat. 

And that's all I've got. I'd best get a move on. I'll take my computer with me so I can post while there. Happy Wednesday! Later! 

Happy Birthday "Merica!

Sorry for my lateness. And probably no one will read this because they'll figure I just wasn't posting today. However, it's Tuesday so here I am. I got up and made a big old breakfast on the Blackstone and then I gave Scout a nice long walk and then I mowed the back yard so it took a bit for me to get to the point where I could relax, sit down, enjoy a mimosa and give you all the what for. 

My breakfast today was really good and I'm really getting the hang of the Blackstone. It was quite lovely to enjoy our breakfast outside surrounded by the flowers and birds. What wasn't lovely was Jim not doing what I asked him to do. So I was getting things ready and needed to Windex the table outside so while I was running around cooking breakfast I said to Jim, "Hey can you real quick go Windex the table outside so I can set it?" Next thing I know Jim's got the hose out and a scrub brush and the Goo Gone and he's going to town on the whole thing, every which way. And as nice and thoughtful as this was, it was not helpful as I was trying to get shit done and needed the table for workspace. UGH! I mean, he could have just Windexed and then later scrubbed the whole fucking thing but no, he has to get in my way. And then it's like I'm the asshole because I'm irritated that he's in my way. Jum! 

Jim and I don't have any real plans today except to hang out here at the homestead and maybe chill with the neighbors. It's going to be a scorcher so I don't know how much outdoor time I'm going to want to have sitting and sweating. Unless I'm sunbathing it just isn't my idea of a good time. But who knows. 

Dinner tonight will be burgers, corn and probably green beans. Nothing special but it is easy.

My next door neighbors (Cari and Jordan) as per their usual, got fireworks to set off later tonight. It's not my thing though. It just seems like a lot of money for not a lot of excitement. I guess the kids like it but whatever. Unless I'm at the Bay enjoying them from the deck, overlooking the lake while others on a barge far enough away not to be dangerous are setting them off, it's just a lot of noise and very anti-climatic. 

What else? Oh, tomorrow I head north to Columbus. My plan is to get up, walk the dogs (I typed gods at first which is about right) and head up around 8 or 9. If it isn't too sweltering by the time I get there, I'll take Birdie on a little hike but other than that, I plan to lay by the pool. I will take my computer with me so I can post while I'm there so don't fret. 

Okay well that's I'll I've got. Happy 4th to all! Stay safe! Maggie, Charlie and Eva - safe travels tomorrow! Later!

July 4th Eve

It seems like it's still the weekend except that Jim's going to work today. He had the choice of working today or not but he wouldn't get paid if he didn't so he decided to go in for a few hours (he gets paid for tomorrow). I ain't mad at him...makes no nevermind to me. 

The weekend was a good one. Saturday Jim and I went out for drinks and then dinner with Doug and Lauren. We started at 16 Lots in Mason for a couple beers. They have a shuffleboard table there and Lauren and I kicked Jim and Doug's asses (of course we did)! From there we headed to the Sichuan Bistro for dinner. It's an authentic Chinese/Sichuan (duh) restaurant and I'm telling you, it's the best I've ever had. Jim, of course got a beef dish, and I got the crispy tofu. I mean holy shit the sauce was so yummy. Lauren got the sizzling spicy tofu and green beans which we all shared. It was so good. I think we were probably the only non-Chinese people in there. That tells you how good it is. 

Sunday Jim and I did our usual breakfast (although I didn't do my normal "BIG" breakfast), Shooters and then we just chilled until it was time to head to Anne's for Mom's birthday celebration. It was lovely and it was great to see my cousin Lisa and her daughter Sarah...as well as everyone else. Jim and I left there just in time to beat the weather. We did have to drive through a torrential downpour for a minute but once we were through that, all was well. 

When we got home last night I sat on the couch for a bit and watched a show then headed up to bed. I was really tired because I didn't sleep well Saturday night. I actually ended up reading for a good hour but when I finally shut everything down and closed my eyes, I didn't open them again until I felt the thwap thwap thwap of Scoutie's tail and then Boo's tongue up my nose, at 6:00. 

I've already walked the boys and after I finish this I'll do a little clean up, fold some laundry, change the sheets, get some more laundry started, get on the elliptical and then probably just hang out, and read. I'm reading 4 really good books right now. Correction, I'm reading 3 really good books and listening to 1 really good book. It's hard sometimes to decide what I want to read at any given time. Anyway, I'll just chill here and wait for Jim to get home. 

Dinner tonight: I'm making a pulled pork in the Instant Pot along with some cole slaw and corn. Yummy. Plus it will make lots of leftovers so Jim will have something to eat while I'm in Columbus from Wednesday - Saturday. 

K - well, time to get a move on. Happy Monday! Later!

Steamy

Last night's storm cleared out the smokiness from yesterday but left behind some humid as shit air. Coming back from walking Boo and Scout, it looks like I just stepped out of a pool. After I finish this I'll take a bike ride and I anticipate I'll look like a drowned rat upon my return. 

Last night I made a dinner that Jim devoured. If you'll recall, I made Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts over rice. I've made it before but this time, if I do say so myself, it was perfect. Here's the reason, I believe: A) the recipe only calls for 1/4 cup of the sweet chili sauce which isn't nearly enough; I added nearly a cup and B) I made my own sweet chili sauce. See, one time, maybe the first time I made this recipe, I didn't have any sweet chili sauce in my cupboard so I looked at Pinterest and found a recipe that was easy and I had all the ingredients in my pantry. Upon tasting it I thought Why would anyone buy this when it's so easy to make? So ever since then, I've made my own. It lasts forever in the fridge. Here's a good recipe in case you're interested. Oh, and by the way, if you don't like Brussel sprouts, you could make the air fryer recipe with broccoli or sugar snap peas or snow peas or fresh green beans. 

Dinner tonight, by the way, is going to be a penne pasta with mozzarella, garlic and fresh basil. I might grill a little chicken and add that in...we'll see. I have a ton of shredded mozzarella from Costco I need to use and my basil has exploded. I hope it's good. I mean, how bad could it be? Cheese, basil, garlic, pasta...what could go wrong? 

We were hanging on the porch last evening with Lauren when a little storm hit and man did the wind freak me out. It just all of a sudden kicked up and was blowing sideways. Makes me nervous about the storms we might get this weekend, namely overnight Saturday. Ugh! 

Plans for the weekend: I'll just make dinner tonight and most likely we'll just chill with the neighbors. Most of the neighbors are actually out of town but Doug and Lauren are still around. Tomorrow we'll go out to dinner with them, most likely around here. I'm not venturing anywhere near downtown this weekend. We've got Taylor Swift in concert tonight and Saturday plus the Reds are in town and trying to continue their at home winning streak. FC Cincinnati is playing Saturday and HOLY SHIT!!! Ambrosia is playing tonight and tomorrow down at Ludlow Garage! If you think you don't know who Ambrosia is, just Google them, you will know every song they've done! It's one of the bands we often put on Pandora when we play cards. 

Sunday is my mom's birthday extravaganza at Anne's which will be fun. It'll be nice to see everyone. 

Anyway, I've rambled on long enough here. Time to get a move on and get my bike ride done. Happy Friday! Happy weekend. Later!

Drumroll!

Yesterday after Jim and I had gone to Shooters he went to lay down before having to go to work. While he did that, I was in the family room watching a show. Around 2:30 his phone rang which was downstairs so I ran to get it, thinking it'd be his boss. It was his pulmonologist. I grabbed the phone running upstairs in the hopes Jim could answer. I wasn't fast enough but the doc left a message. The area in his lung that they biopsied was NEGATIVE for cancer. Instead, it carried some bacteria which proved to be "H flu". Jim is now on a zpak. I can't tell you how relieved I am. When I saw that it was his doc calling, my heart started pounding. I was so nervous! 

So where do we go from here? Jim's next appointment with his oncologist is July 28th. I'm guessing that when he goes to get blood work and then speaks to him, the discussion about stopping his meds will be had. I plan on going to this appointment because I have some concerns and some questions. For Jim's sake, I'd really like for him to come off his meds. I think some of the issues he has (a buildup of calluses, fatigue) are a result of side effects but most of all, I don't want him to be on them so long that his body stops responding to them. We'll see. I'm just happy that we're past this most recent semi-scare.

These Canadian fires are really doing a number on my outdoor time. Yesterday I never laid out...I guess I could have because the sun was "shining" but with the haze it was just so overcast. Plus it just looked yucky out there. Today is doubly bad. We're in the 2nd highest risk factor for air quality ("unhealthy") in the Cincy area. In Columbus, they're at the highest ("very unhealthy"). I did walk the boys this morning and maybe it's just me getting in my head but I do feel like I can tell the air is effed up. Maybe it's the power of suggestion but just feels heavy when I breathe. I sent Maggie a text to tell her that if she plans on walking Birdie, she needs to take her inhaler. I'm definitely not going to lay out. The weather people say that as the day progresses and winds pick up from the south, the air quality will improve and rain may move in. Of course the weekend is looking sporadically stormy. 

Jim's back on regular shift which is nice. It was nice to have a couple days/nights to myself but I look forward to making dinner tonight and having him at home. Speaking of dinner, I think I'll make a chicken and brussel sprout stir fry thing with a sweet chili sauce over rice. I've made it before and it's delicious. 

So yeah, when I finish here, I'll go get on the elliptical and then the rest of my day will be hanging with my pups, watching shows, reading and that's about it. Pretty boring. 

K - I'm out. Happy Thursday. (Seriously had to stop and look at the calendar to see what day it was!). Later!

Happy Birthday MOM!!!

Happy birthday MOM!!!  85 looks good on you! I hope you have a great day and I can't wait to see you on Sunday (Anne is having a little party to celebrate her).

Apparently the Canadian wild fires are really doing a number to the air quality here in Loveland and really all over the area. It looks like fog out there but it's not; it's haze and smoke. I was going to lay out today after doing all my "jobs" but I'm not sure A) that's a good idea and B) if the sun is going to be able to peak through the haze. 

A couple of tests came through from Jim's Monday appointment. He does NOT have tuberculosis nor does he have pneumonia. Hoping everything else comes back negative as well. 

Jim's on 2nd shift at least through tomorrow which works for me. It's nice because he was able to walk Boo yesterday and will be able to do so today as well. Plus, I had the house to myself last night which is always a nice little change. I made myself a nice little dinner and then laid in bed with my Craftmatic automatic adjustable bed all jacked up watching Emergency NYC. Kind of bummed that I finished it. It's a good one. 

My plans for today: I just finished some yoga (haven't done any yoga for about a month and needed it!), after I finish this I'll take Scout on his walk (Jim will take Boo), and then I need to mow the front yard. I might take a bike ride but we'll see. Again, the air quality is for shit so maybe I'll just throw Jim a bone and go to lunch at Shooters with him. 

Dinner tonight: Jim won't be around but I'll probably cook some mahi mahi with broccoli and rice (leftover from last night's dinner). 

Why are people such assholes? I'm watching a piece on the Today show about tourists acting like stupid little assholes. They go to these ancient ruins or natural phenomenon and destroy or vandalize them. Or they go to a place with a lot of wildlife and taunt the animals, causing them distress and retaliation. Then they get hurt or others get hurt. I mean, grow up people!  

Well, Boo just reached up and smacked me on the arm then barked at me because he's ready to go for a walk. Scout then came over, reached up and pawed at me. They are so impatient. Happy Wednesday! Later!

Glad That's Done

For the most part, Jim's bronchoscopy yesterday went off without a hitch. Aside from it taking longer than expected (we didn't get home until 4:15), there were no issues. The doctor said they were able to get a sample from the spot in his lung as well as a sample from his lymph. Those have been sent off and we should have results in a couple days. Jim came out of anesthesia easily and really didn't cough too much once we got home and there was no blood produced. When I asked how he was feeling about everything, Jim said to me yesterday, "Fine...but I have a feeling that I won't be coming off my meds." I thought that was an interesting comment from him. He's always so positive even to the point sometimes of being unrealistic. Hmm. 

Anyway, when we got home, Jim was STARVING and ate a couple of pieces of pizza. For dinner he just wanted grilled cheese and soup and he chose the vegan chili that was in the freezer. When I was thawing it out, I realized it had quinoa in it. If you'll recall, quinoa makes me violently ill. However, I THOUGHT those two times I'd gotten violently ill had been with a brand of organic quinoa that I'd gotten at Aldi. Prior to that, using a different brand, I'd not had problems. So I took a chance and ate the chili. And from 11:30 - 1:30 I was on the couch in slight hell. It wasn't as bad as it's been before - I didn't barf - but I sure felt like I could barf and my belly was NOT good. Ugh! So no more quinoa EVER AGAIN!!! (I'm so stupid.) 

Here's a funny thing I forgot to share. I think I mentioned that the damn deer are eating our hastas, right? Well, not all our hastas just a certain variety. We have two of this type (along with others) at the mailbox and then a few along the perimeter of the front deck. Anyway, we've tried deer scram and though that sort of works, when it rains, it washes away. So a couple weeks ago, I got a couple repellents that can be charged (solar) and then set to blink lights as well as emit an ultrasonic transmission to scare the deer. Apparently while we were gone, two of Lauren and Doug's kids were tortured by it. They say that some kids have the ability to hear it. Oops. So, I'll have to change the mode for the one at the mailbox to just flash lights.

Plans for the day: Jim isn't working until later this afternoon so I'll probably just make leftovers for my dinner. I've walked Scout (Jim took care of Boo) and after I finish this, I'll make a menu and grocery list. It poured rain last night so the front yard may be too wet to mow but it'll be nice tomorrow and I can mow then. Which means, I may make a run down to Jungle Jim's to restock my wine. I was going to go to Party Source but I really don't feel like driving down to KY today. And JJ's has a great beer and wine section. I'll probably also take a bike ride later.

Jim's an idiot. He just said to me, "Thanks for telling me to eat. I don't know how long I would have waited." I mean, JAYSUS! Right? 

Okay well, time to get some more things done. Happy Tuesday! Later!

Fingers Crossed

Sorry for the late post. Jim's CT and bronchoscopy was scheduled for this morning and so I waited until I was in the waiting room to get to my blog. If you'll recall, his original scan and biopsy were scheduled for the 14th but he had a cold and that got cancelled. It's a good thing I checked on his MyChart last week and saw that they rescheduled for today. It's so crazy to me that they always schedule these things without consulting the patient. I guess you just have to go whenever they can fit you in. Anyway, his CT is scheduled for around 8:00. It should only take about a 1/2 hour and then we'll head to another St. E hospital for his 10:30 appointment for the bronchoscopy. It should take about 2 hours so I'm hoping to be out of there by 1:00ish but who knows. Fingers crossed, prayers and/or any good vibes you can send out. 

So this is my first post since I left for PIB. It was a lovely week. Maggie and Eva were there until Thursday and it was so nice to just hang out and relax with them. We had great weather for most of the week. I woke up one day to a drenching rain, Friday I think but I wasn't mad about that...we needed it. Some of the things we did: I went paddle boarding, we spent a couple days at the Crews Nest, lunch out, breakfast in (more on that in a minute), sunset watching; Jim cleaned all the downstairs windows, inside and out; he also treated/painted the deck furniture and it looks great. He has a hard time doing nothing when we're at the Bay, which works out well for the upkeep that needs done. 

Trip, Susan and JJ got there on Friday and by the time they arrived, the rain had moved out. Even though we only got one day with them, it was a good time with euchre, lunch at the Reel Bar, Jim played putt putt with Trip and JJ and then we had a great dinner while we enjoyed the Reds play and beat the Braves. Man are they fun to watch! Who knew!? 

We only went to Frostys one time because the one time we went it was a disappointment. I understand that prices are inflated for many reasons of late but $5.50 for a single blueberry pancake that comes out nearly the size of a silver dollar is fucking ridiculous. Jim badly wanted to say something to the owner, Kim but I wouldn't let him. Maybe I should have. Getting Trip's perspective, who would have said something, makes me think I should have just let Jim do it. Trip's comment was, as a waiter or owner, if a patron doesn't let someone know something was wrong, it can't be fixed. That makes sense. I guess I was just worried that Jim wouldn't voice his disappointment in a copacetic way. My bad. Regardless, I won't be going to Frostys for a while...for breakfast at least. 

The hardest part about going to the Bay is not having the boys with us. Don't get me wrong...I really don't like to bring them with us for many reasons. A) They are happier at home B) the Bay isn't fenced in so they don't have the same freedoms and C) travelling is hard on puppies. I just miss them so much! I know they are well taken care of but I wish I could talk to them every night so I knew they weren't feeling abandoned. 

Okay well Jim should be out of his CT any minute so I'll wrap this up. Dinner tonight will be chicken parm pie and a salad. Once I get Jim settled at home when this is all over, I'll head to the grocery. I also need to mow the front yard. Thankfully we didn't get any of the weather they thought we'd get so the yard is dry but the grass is long. 

Happy Monday! I'll try to post earlier tomorrow. Later!

The Big Shop

Today is shopping day for the Bay. After I finish writing this, I'll go over my list and head to Kroger. I actually don't have that much to buy because much of what I'm taking I already got and/or prepared so that's good. Jim's going to go to Party Source to get his beer and champagne so that's one less thing I need to do. Tomorrow we'll clean the house and pack. I'm hoping to leave Sunday by 7:00. That's my goal and Jim promised he'd get everything done without pushing any of my buttons. I'll believe that when I see it. 

Tonight for dinner we're going to go to El Picante with Doug and Lauren. Our last hurrah for a while. I'm sure there will be some cards thrown after as well. Jim wants to meet at Shooters around 3:00 and as long as I get everything done that needs doing, I'm fine with that. I've already walked the dogs so really I'm 1/3 of the way there. 

There was an awful story on the news today about a 32 year-old man in a nearby town who shot and killed three of his kids yesterday. All boys. All under the age of 8. He apparently also shot his wife in the hand. I think there was also a daughter but she wasn't injured. I mean what the fuck!? Why? So crazy. 

I woke up at 2 AM last night to it pouring down rain. I laid there and thought Oh, isn't that nice...an unexpected rain. And then I remembered that I hadn't taken any of the cushions in and the umbrella was up. So, I jumped out of bed, ran out the front door and stowed all the cushions behind the furniture on the front deck. Then I raced to the back deck and did the same. I came in drenched, went back upstairs where all three of my boys were still sound asleep. At least Jim had put the grill cover on the grill though. 

Okay well, I need to get my stuff together and head to Kroger. Happy Friday! Happy weekend. I'll try to post on Facebook...if I remember. Safe travels to Jimmy and me. Later! 

Countdown

Three more days and I'll be headed north! I can't wait. In the meantime, I need to finish getting my shit together. Today that involves mowing the front yard (I did the back yesterday) and doing a little cleaning. Other than that, who knows what I'll do. Cari, my neighbor asked me to go to the pool today for a couple hours...we'll see if that actually happens. 

Dinner tonight: Jim wants burritos so burritos it is. I'll probably make some Mexican rice to go along with it. I have all the ingredients too which means I won't have to go to the store. Bonus, especially since I'll be doing the big shop tomorrow for the Bay. 

I started a new book: Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid. (Context: She wrote the Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo). So far I really like it. It's about a retired tennis pro who decides to return to the game at the age of 37. 

I've got nothing else exciting to talk about. Isn't that sad? Sorry...I'm pretty boring right now. That's okay though. Usually when I have stuff to talk about, I'm bitching or complaining or there's some horrible thing in the news. So boring is good! 

K - I'd better get out there and mow the lawn. Happy Thursday! Later!

Hot Diggity Dog

I got a text from Trip yesterday and it made my day! Apparently JJ has an unexpected baseball free weekend next week and so they're going to come up to the Bay! WOOT! So excited! We're leaving on Saturday but I'm just happy they'll get to get up there! Can't wait.

Yesterday was productive. I went to Aldi and Costco and put a nice dent in the list for PIB. I think I'll shop for the rest of everything on Friday. Today I don't have much to do except wait around for some moving people but the time window for them is 1:00 - 4:00. I've already walked the dogs and will probably sit with a nice cup of joe for a bit on the front porch and read before I get the rest of my exercise done. I don't know if I'll bike ride or get on the elliptical. The roads are still a bit wet from the rain so I'll probably just get on the old machine upstairs. 

Did I mention that we got our driveway sealed? It looks so pretty. We do it every other year and it makes all the difference. Unfortunately prices increased about 75% since the last time we got it done but what're you going to do? 

Dinner last night was tuna salad with corn and the leftover hash brown casserole which means tonight we'll have individual pizzas. I'll use naan for the crust and I got some Italian sausage, turkey pepperoni and green peppers to top it. I'll do a wedge salad as well. I've been into the wedge salad lately.

Boo was such a needy little hungry boy yesterday and I don't know why. He started giving me guff about feeding him dinner around 3:00 which is over an hour before when he normally eats. And by giving me guff I mean jumping on me, standing on my chest and sticking his tongue in every orifice on my head. I felt bad for continually having to brush his "kisses" off and tell him, "UH-UH!!!" but it was way too early for dinner. Maybe he was doing it because he knew Scoutie was hungry. Scout, you see, never ate his breakfast. Hmm...that's probably what happened. He felt bad for Scout and because Boo knows Scout isn't a pest and won't beg for his food, he took it upon himself to berate me and drive me nuts. He's a good brother. In the end, I fed them a little early (at 4:00) because I just couldn't take it anymore. 

Okay well, time to go heat up my coffee and read for a bit. Safe travels to Maggie and Eva who are headed to the Bay today. Have fun! Happy Wednesday! Later!

What To Do?

Before I start, Jim's biopsy got postponed. As I mentioned, Jim wasn't feeling great over the weekend with some sort of cold that started in his chest. He woke up Monday with a sore throat and thought he'd best call the doc to see if it would affect the procedure. Apparently they do NOT want to do the procedure with issues going on and so, they'll do some blood work today to make sure it's just a cold and then reschedule. Of course this poses a bit of a conundrum because we'll be out of town next week so the answers are now put off again. That is frustrating and worrying for me but I'm trying to just chill. Jim's not worried but he is bummed because he thinks I'm annoyed that plans got messed up but I'm not. I just want to get this done so we know what's happening in his lung. I'll keep you posted. 

I have a bunch of things to do over the next few days and I just don't know what to do first. I need to go to Costco and Aldi. I need to mow the lawn. I want to take a bike ride. It's going to rain again today, however, so I think I'll put off mowing until Thursday. It's still really cool out right now so I might put off a bike ride until later this morning but again, it's supposed to rain after noon so I just don't know. Tomorrow we have some people coming to pick something up and haul away so Costco and Aldi will most like have to happen today. That's fine but Costco doesn't open until 10:00. Do you see my dilemma!? Ugh! 

Dinner: I might do tuna fish salad and corn. I don't know. It's a pickle because I need to make something without leftovers. 

Damn deer! I think it's the deer but it could be rabbits. Anyway, the damn deer (or rabbits) are eating the two hastas out by the mailbox and the buds off the little rose bush that Jim planted. We keep putting deer scram down but apparently that's just acting like seasoning. They haven't started munching on the yellow flowers on the day lilies yet but I'm sure that's next. However, if it's rabbits and not deer, they might not be able to reach the flowers because they're too tall for them. That's why I think it might not be deer. Plus, the dogs haven't had any reaction and you'd think if there were deer out at the mailbox every night chowing down on our plants, Boo and especially Scout would have something to say (or scream) about it. I want to get some sort of motion detection air horn set up out there but that might annoy the neighbors. Not to mention scare the shit out of the mail carrier. What to do, what to do? 

Okay well, I guess I'll get a move on. I think Aldi opens around 9:00 so I'll try to get there around 9:30 which will put me at Costco right when they open. I fucking hate Costco! Especially since they've once again rearranged shit and it make no sense. They've put all the k-cups over by the Keurig machines which is across the store from all the other coffee. How is that logical!? They also moved the Collagen powder that I use and last time I was there, I couldn't find it. I mean, what the eff!? 

Happy Tuesday! Later!

Cool Morning

We got some much needed rain yesterday which means I'll be able to cut the front yard this week. It's been so dry the grass grew very little since the last mow. Hopefully it will dry out enough by tomorrow that I can do it. My walk with the boys was lovely as well and made me really itch for PIB because of the cool temp and wind. This time next week...

The weekend was good although it started a bit iffy. Jim started feeling bad on Friday evening (maybe a chest cold) and of course he's a terrible patient (such a drama queen) and I'm a horrible nurse. I immediately pumped him full of meds and sent him off to bed on Friday after dinner because I didn't want to be mean and also didn't want to listen to him moan and groan. Thankfully he woke up Saturday feeling improved and even ended up going to Raeburn with me. He actually didn't swim because he started feeling bad again so he ended up spending the whole day in his favorite chair. I personally think this was his plan the whole time. If he could marry that chair he would. I really didn't mind him doing this...I was happy to spend my time in the pool, playing volleyball and hanging with everyone else. 

Saturday night I made dinner and we just hung out. Sunday I made a big breakfast on the griddle, walked Scout (Jim walked Boo) and then we headed to Shooters for lunch. When we got home it wasn't raining but it was gloomy so I stayed in and watched the docuseries Shiny Happy People, which is about those crazy mofo Duggars of TLC fame, 19 and Counting. What a shit show and what a bunch of nuts those parents are. The things they've done to their kids in the name of fame and "Jesus". I'm just glad that A) a few of the kids have managed to escape the life of that fundamentalist "religion" and B) the oldest kid was finally convicted of child porn and will be in jail for about 12 years. Ugh! 

I am NOT happy with the our dog shaming calendar today. It has  pic of a sweet little pup and says "Thunderstorms give me diarrhea." I mean, why should that poor baby be ashamed of that? Those owners should be ashamed. People are rude. 

So this week I'll be preparing for PIB. Today I'll make some lists and figure out what I'll need to take and what meals I'll need to prepare ahead of time. I have a pork tenderloin that I'll get ready today but other than that I'm not sure. Dinner tonight: I think I'll grill some pork chops, make a tomato/corn/cucumber summer salad and maybe roast some potatoes or something. We'll see. 

Okay that's all I've got. Happy Monday! Time to got get on the elliptical and watch a show...not sure what. K - later!

Errands

I have a few errands to run today and I'll head to the grocery but other than that, I've got nothing. Mostly I plan on hanging around here, reading, maybe catching some rays and relaxing. One of my errands is dropping off the bags of clothes I'm donating. The one problem I have is I have boxes of shoes but two of the boxes don't have covers so I'll probably have to bag those. I recently saw a specific shoe deposit thing in a parking lot nearby but I can't remember where it was. Ugh! I'll probably just go to the place I usually take my stuff...it's just a dumpster thingy. 

trump's in more hot water but who's surprised there? I'm sure this won't deter him in his campaign to run for the presidency. I just wish that stupid fuck would go away! ARG! What a tool.

We're getting our driveway sealed today. They should be here anytime. I was walking Scout when I remembered that I forgot to move my car out of the driveway. Poor Scout had to hightail the last mile without any pee breaks. I say pee breaks but really he isn't peeing that far into a walk. He's dribbling if that. It's so annoying. He likes to stop every few yards to sniff and/or dribble and his Momma doesn't play those games. Boo doesn't do that. Boo pees twice on a walk and that's it. 

Dinner tonight: Spaghetti and a salad. I think I'll do a wedge salad instead of my regular one. I also think I'm going to get some LaRosa's sauce this time around. It's been awhile since we've had it. Costco used to carry it and that was all we really used but they stopped some time back. 

I'm listening to a good book by Jennifer Weiner. It's #2 in a series. It's called "That Summer". 

Huh. I just went on Jim's MyChart and it says that for his CT next Wednesday he needs to arrive by 7:45. He told me 6:00. Boy that would be much better! 

 And that's about all I've got. Time to make my menu and grocery list and get a move on. Happy Friday! Ooh, it's Friday! Later!

Feels So Good

Holy moly! I can't tell you how good it feels to get both my closets and all my drawers cleaned out. I worked from about 9:00 until nearly 3:00! I bagged up 5 bags of clothes and 3 boxes of shoes for donation. I also had about 4 bags of trash! Additionally I have a huge sack of yarn that I'd like to donate somehow but I need to research that. I cleaned out and organized all my drawers and even my jewelry box and now I need to get jewelry cleaner so I can start wearing my cute earrings again! I keep going into my closet and standing there and just smiling. I also keep opening my drawers and feeling such relief that it's finally done. I still have a few things to go through where I've stashed some yarn and I forgot about my nightstand but that won't take any time. {Sigh}

Now that I've checked that off my list, I'm going to take a day of relaxation. I was just going to lay out on the deck but Cari, next door asked if I'd like to go to her pool with her around 1:00. I said yes...we'll see if it pans out. 

Update: Cari just cancelled on me. I knew she would. She always does. Interesting, huh? 

I've already walked the dogs and want to take a bike ride but it's pretty cool right now so I'll wait a bit for it to warm up. Once I finish this, I'll go chill on the deck and enjoy the morning with a cup of coffee and read until I'm ready to take my ride. 

Dinner tonight: Either spaghetti and a salad or a cobb salad. I'm waiting to get Jim's choice before I decide. I texted him but he hasn't responded that turkey. 

Jim's biopsy: As I've mentioned, I think, it's set for Wednesday June 14th (Flag Day). He was originally supposed to get a CT scan the day before to help guide the doc in the procedure but insurance didn't approve so in order for the approval, they had to move it to Wednesday before his procedure which means we now need to be there at 6:00. Ugh! Sucks but hopefully the whole thing will be done and we'll be home at a reasonable time. Fingers crossed please. This shit always makes me nuts and nervous. 

Okay, well, time to get a move on. Happy Thursday (man has this week flown by). Later!

Purging

Did I mention in my weekend recap about the oh-so-wonderful sangria that I had at Arnold's? I'd be surprised if I didn't because it was unbelievably delicious and I can't stop thinking about it. So much so that yesterday I got all the ingredients needed and made a giant batch. It's got pinot grigio/proseco, triple sec, club soda and lots of fruit (I put in lemon, orange, strawberries, apples, raspberries and blueberries). It's good (of course I tried it yesterday) but it's missing something. It might be more flavorful today now that it's marinated overnight but there's just something. I'll try it later and may just add a little vodka to it. I found one recipe that had vodka and I thought Ooh! That would perk it up for sure! We'll see. 

So I have BIG plans today. Plans that I've been talking about tackling since last summer. I'm cleaning out all my drawers, and closets. This includes the guest bedroom where all my knitting and sewing shit is. I plan on sorting, organizing, and purging. I'm anticipating lots of clothes to be donated and crap to be thrown away. I can't wait to get this done and unlike before, I'm motivated! I expect it to take at least all morning. Wish me luck. 

My outing yesterday was somewhat successful. I did find some towels at BB&B but was unlucky in finding an icemaker. However, talking to Maggie yesterday she told me she has an icemaker that's no longer being used which I can have (in their reno, they put in a built-in icemaker at their bar). AWESOME! Costco was a shit show as usual. I hate Costco. People are just so stupid. It's like they walk in the place and forget how to proceed like a human being. They block aisles, cut you off, crash into you and are just plain dumb. I want to get a t-shirt made to wear when I go that says on the front, "You aren't the only person in the store" and on the back "Please don't park your cart in other's way". 

Dinner tonight: I'm going to make Buffalo chicken sloppy joes, cole slaw and some fries. I wasn't going to make this but it was on my menu a week ago and I never made it and so need to use the cole slaw before it turns. 

I got up extra early today and have already finished walking the dogs. This means I have a little "extra" time to spend before starting my jobs so I'm going to go enjoy a second cup of coffee out on the back deck while reading my book. OH!!! I forgot! I stopped at  Half Price Books and found the 1 book I was hoping to find: The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles. I got a couple other books too but I'm really excited about reading Towles again. I love his writing. 

K - I'm out. Happy Wednesday! Later!

Snake Wrangler

Scout is a turkey. You all knew that but yesterday he hit a new high of turkiness. For about 3 hours yesterday afternoon, I was forced to police Scout as he wrangled either 2 or 3 snakes. I think there was 1 snake that was dumb enough to keep reappearing and driving Scout to near hysteria, making me think it was a different snake but there was definitely 2. The problem is that Scout is afraid of the snakes, who wouldn't be? I mean, when he corners them, they rise up and strike at him and yesterday I saw one start rattling its tail. That was disconcerting to say the least. I thought, Holy shit! Is that a Rattler!? Thankfully, after I looked it up, I saw that black rat snakes will do that when cornered because it makes the predator think twice. Scout certainly thinks twice but while he's thinking he barks like a maniac until I'm forced to stop him and wrestle him inside. 

So yeah, the first time it happened, I didn't see the snake because it's behind the wood pile. Scout was just trying to get at him. I managed to get the boys inside and then went back out by myself to spread some snake repellant. (You may be wondering what Boo was doing while all this is going on. He just followed Scout around. He saw the snake but he didn't bark. He would hop around, obviously terrified but won't get near it.) I made the boys stay in for a bit and finally after about a half hour (with Scout continually going to the door and ringing the bells) I let them back out. They went right back to the spot but the snake must've been elsewhere because they were calm. While this was happening, Iwent to the side window to watch them, happened to look down and right below the window, slithering out from under the Florida room, through the lattice was a whole other snake. ARG! I watched him for a while but the dogs never saw him. They eventually came in and joined me at the window. I wondered if they'd spy him and eventually Scout did but Boo never figured it out. I had shut the slider by this point because I didn't want Scout going out and causing another round of raucous.  

Once I saw the snake go back under the Florida room, I let the boys out again. Of course they ran right to the spot where he'd disappeared and sniffed and nosed around. All was well though...he didn't make an appearance while they were there. I did see him come out once more and go up the retaining wall and slither around the corner but I lost him and I'm not sure where he headed. 

About a half hour later, I was reading on the back deck when Scout started up again. The bark he emits when he's got a snake in his sights is very distinct. I grabbed my water soaker that I keep to distract the boys and shut them up when they're barking like little assholes, headed to the side yard and there, trying to escape through the fence to my neighbors yard was ANOTHER snake (it was probably the same one as the first incident). I know this wasn't the one from under the Florida room because this one was in the midst of expelling a previously eaten meal. You know, pooping. It was crazy. You could see what looked like bones coming out. It was so disgusting and kind of cool. I sprayed the tail end of the snake which hurried him/her along and that was that. I didn't see another snake after that. 

Again, I'm happy to have snakes around because they keep some control of the rodents but I DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM IN MY YARD! I don't want my dogs to see them. One of these days Scout isn't going to be afraid anymore and he's going to grab one and holy shit what if he brings one in the house!? Jim will lose his mind and I'm going to be the one who has to remove it. Ugh! 

Okay well, now that my heart is pounding having relived all that, I think I need a valium. 

So the rest of my day: I've walked the dogs and I'm going to go up and do some ab and arm work before getting in the shower and heading out. I didn't go out yesterday so I'll go do the things I meant to today (BB&B and Costco). After that I'll come home and take a bike ride and then if it's nice I might soak up some vitamin D. Dinner tonight: either a cobb salad or spaghetti and a salad. Or maybe some mahi mahi. Ooh, yesterday I made smash burgers on my Blackstone and they were so good! 

K - time to get a move on. Happy Tuesday. I'm loving this early cool weather. I wish summer could be like this all the time (cool mornings, 80s in the afternoon with little humidity). Later!

Best Day Ever!

I was walking Boo this morning (I take him first during the week) and got a text from Maggie that said, "Pedro Pascal on Smartless". HOLY SHIT!!! I've actually been waiting for this. I figured at some point they'd have him on but it wasn't on my radar so when I got that, I mean, I geeked out for a minute. I was surprised it was Sean's guest. I haven't finished listening to it but it certainly reignited my love/obsession! 

Weekend Recap: It was a good one. Saturday Jim had to work so I went to Raeburn to lounge in the pool and hang with some of the fam. Unfortunately Trip and Susan were only there for a few minutes after I got there before they had to leave. But, Becky, Anne, Steve, Madison and Max were there and it was lovely to chill in the pool and relax for a few hours. I left there around 3:00, Jim had apparently already been home but was gone again. He went to get a haircut thank God because his do was a MESS! So overgrown and ridiculous. I was ready to take some shears to his head myself. Anyway, I took a shower and lounged around until it was time to get ready. 

Saturday night Jim, Lauren, Doug and I headed downtown to Arnold's. We were originally going to go last weekend but put it off because of Taste of Cincinnati and I'm glad we did. First of all, Lauren's uncle was playing there (he's in a jug band) which was so much fun. Additionally, waiting meant it wasn't so crowded. We had reservations at 6:30 and as we pulled up we were lucky enough to find a spot to park directly in front of the restaurant. BONUS! We had a lovely meal (I got the Arnold burger - scrumptious; Jim got spaghetti and meatballs) but best of all their white sangria! Holy shit! I could have had a half dozen of them. I limited myself to 2 though. Anyway, we left around 8:30 or so and made it home by 9:00. Jim still had some gumption left so we played a couple games of Euchre (Lauren and I kicked the fellas asses). 

Sunday Jim and I went to Shooters (it'd been a while) and then came home and napped, I took a bike ride, Jim did some yard work. Dinner was BBQ chicken on the grill. 

Today is going to be a busy day for me. I've already walked the boys and after this I'll get on the elliptical. It's garbage day and I don't want to ride my bike as a result. After exercising I need to clean, mow the back yard and possibly go to Costco and Bed Bath and Beyond (if they're still open). I want to see if there are still deals to be had there. I'd like to get some new towels as well as an ice maker. We'll see. 

Jim was finally watched the final Ted Lasso last night after dinner. I watched it for a second time and cried just as much as the first. There were a few things I caught the second time around that I hadn't in my initial viewing. Man oh man, I'm going to miss that show. 

Okay well, that's about all I've got. The week looks to be a pretty chill one. The weather is going to be pretty lovely this week too. Temps are going to fall a bit and there's going to be plenty of sun. Not much rain which we need but such is life. 

Happy Monday. Oh, dinner tonight: Smash burgers with broccoli salad and probably French fries. K - later!

Coincidence

I mentioned yesterday that I would be extending my stay here by a day so I can go to dinner tonight at Jeff Ruby's. Well, I was looking at my memories on FB this morning and a year ago TODAY I was here for Eva's "clap out" (graduation from 5th grade and last day at Windemere) and then celebration dinner...at Jeff Ruby's! Funny, huh? 

I'm so sad that Ted Lasso is over. At least that seems to be the case. Of course there's been no confirmation and certain actors are leaving it an open question (Nick Mohammed who plays Nate, specifically) but I don't think there will be another season...of Ted Lasso...maybe a movie...maybe a spinoff? That's what I predict. Anyway, after dinner last night, we all sat down and watched the final episode. I won't give anything away, I promise, but I will say a couple things. It tied up some loose ends in terms of character struggles but left some openness to where other characters were headed. In other words, there are some things that weren't completely dealt with, which is why I think they may do something else there. I mean how could they not capitalize on what they've created. When will a chance like that come along again. I get wanting to go out while your on top but I don't think continuing would change that. We'll see. 

Maggie and I just finished our walk. We started by going over to Mom's and doing a little walking with her and then coming back this way to finish around the park and neighborhoods. Normally Birdie would have been with us but she conked out. On our way back from Mom's she kept sliding down into the grass, trying to rest. It was quite hilarious. I think she spent all her energy in the excitement of seeing her Nana. Maggie ended up having to pick her up and carry her home. Currently she's sacked out. Oh, and Maggie and I ended up walking 4 miles! Nice! That deserves a celebratory mimosa!

While we were with Mom and walking around her complex we walked into the pool area to check it out...none of us had seen it first hand before. It was nice...until some dude came running out of a building yelling at us. "HEY NO DOGS! DOGS AREN'T ALLOWED! COME ON!" I picked up Birdie and said, "Settle down. We're just taking a look around." Then the guy continued: "THE POOL ISN'T OPEN YET!" I was all like, "Dude, settle down...we're just looking!" Meanwhile, Maggie slowed down to a stroll and circled the pool pretty much ignoring that dick. He's lucky...I thought for sure Maggie was going to go off on him. We were were obviously not there to swim...we were completely dressed and in workout clothes. What a dipshit!

Plans today: Just a repeat of yesterday. Hanging in the pool, keeping cool in the sweltering heat and enjoying each other's company. Our dinner reservations are at 6:15...can't wait. I don't know what I'll get yet...I may switch it up...get something other than a steak. We'll see. 

Okay well, time to relax and sip a mimosa before heading out to the pool. I probably won't post tomorrow because I'll be leaving...but we'll see. Happy Thursday and Happy June. Later