Gryphon Street

Worrying the Dog

2012-01-28T02:26:00.000-05:00

Up late doing this and that, clearing out some of the stuff in the rental so it's ready to go bye-bye. Dog is concerned. Today (now yesterday, I guess) I woke up without the headache, but was depleted in the energy category. Still, I managed to hit some stores and take a load of stuff to new house and say hello to the koi.

Tomorrow, C. and D. are bravely bringing their carpet steamer down to new house to steam clean the carpets. There may be just too much carpet. I have got to get rid of some of it, but I have to remind myself not to try to do everything at once. In any case, I'll be happier with steam cleaned carpets while I'm camping out there. A major movie option would be nice about now ;-).

Dream on.... Speaking of which, I'd best go to bed.

Best Laid Plans

2012-01-26T20:59:00.000-05:00

Woke up with a migraine that derailed today's plans. It's been a stubborn one. Sometimes they go away in a few hours, this one did not. So, no visit to new house today, not much of anything but hanging out in bed listening to Enya. Tonight I did start re-entering chapters into the computer, but still not feeling great. So tomorrow, I will reset, try again. Hopefully the stinking headache will be gone, though some have been known to last for days.

Dog apparently is having his own problems and is asking to go out...

Satellite Rage

2012-01-25T22:23:00.000-05:00

Had very busy dreams this morning. Was tired today, but took all the stuff I had ready down to the new house after lunch. I put some of it in "places", on shelves. There is no furniture, so I did what I could. When I arrived at the house, there were two boxes at the gate from the Dish satellite network with instructions to return equipment to Dish. You may recall that last year at this very same time I was having to do this with Wild Blue while sick with flu and two feet of snow on the ground. The boxes produced instant anger. The previous owner didn't even deal with this shit, and I'm certainly not going to do anything about it. He left me enough of his problems. Dish can charge him for the equipment. It burns me to even have to put the boxes in the recycle. All I can think is that the previous owner was the epitomy of the absent-minded professor (he taught at the university) or he just was in denial that the house was actually selling. He had a month to get his crap together, and I don't think he started anything until the day before closing. So to me, satellite boxes on my doorstep bring forth murderous thoughts.

Tonight I Skyped with writing group but the connection was very poor. We managed, but it wasn't easy. Next week I'm going to have to try Skyping with the iPhone since I won't have internet. Hope it works. The group is invaluable. I can get 3G on the iPad, too, but since it is a first edition, there is no camera. Despite the interruptions from our poor connection tonight, the group liked my chapter. I guess tomorrow will be similar today--work on book
stuff in the morning, then head to new house with more stuff. Return to rental, maybe do some cleanup. Might be nice to shop for a new easy chair so I have someplace comfy to sit in the new house.

Rain and Details

2012-01-24T18:46:00.000-05:00

The car is now all set (except cleaning) for a trip back to Maine, even though that won't be happening for a few weeks, and today I shopped for a few new essentials for the new house, including a kitchen trash can. How exciting is that??? And of course, doormats, to help alleviate the tracking in of "stuff". This was all enough to exhaust me--big store, having to go back and forth to pick up things I forgot, etc. Exercise.

I did not go to new house today. We've been having rain off and on, and I did not feel like carrying stuff in, in the rain, and dirtying up the floors with wet feet. Plus, I had those other things to do and that was enough. As it is, I had potato chips and Fanta for lunch. Tomorrow will be soon enough to take a load of stuff down. Forgot to check on koi food. Shoot.

Speaking of the rain, the clouds have been really interesting today, and because of the open vistas, I could see it raining down across the valley. Lots of other stuff to do, like get mail forwarded to the new address. Details, details.

House Adventures

2012-01-23T19:20:00.000-05:00

So today the Merry Maids came. I went down to new house with bags packed with work, snacks, and water, got a coffee at The Bean, and waited. Unfortunately I missed the first call because I had the stinking ringer turned off, which delayed the ladies--they went to another house first. It was around 11 or 11:30 when they did get there and dog and I showed them around, then I went to the studio to get out of their way. I was told it would take a couple hors, but they ended up working there till 4:00! Good thing I had brought snacks...

I cleaned off a considerable amount of grunge from two of the tables left behind, and sat down to work with the computer. This was a good thought, but...my keyboard wasn't working right. I think some of the sand from White Sands NM somehow got into it. Some keys worked, some did not, and I could not type a whole chapter without being able to use the enter key, so that was a bust. I amused myself instead by washing off shelves, then the tops of lintels, eventually working to the bathroom. Fortunately the bathroom wasn't as filthy as the rest of the studio, but I was icked out by the razor stubble that came out of the medicine cabinet. My thought was that I'd never buy a house from a bachelor again. Sorry, that's probably sexist, but that was what was going through my mind. Clearly he never bothered to clean the studio at all, except maybe the bathroom, kinda sorta. That doesn't even account for the splashes of paint on the wall from when he was doing screen printing.

I walked the dog around the yard a few times, read the paper, cleaned some windows, checked the mail, etc. Still, the ladies were not done in the house. Someone definitely underestimated how long it would take, but the end result was worth it, a cooties-free house. The studio will be a whole different "problem", but one thing at a time.

Interestingly, when I was out in the driveway, I found a foreign coin--a Mexican 50 cent piece. On one side of it is a GRYPHON! I decided to put it with the Canadian quarters Ruth gave me, which reside with a tiny Buddah I acquired.

Now it's dinner time, for which I'm glad since I had no lunch today.

The Week Ahead

2012-01-22T18:25:00.000-05:00

After watching some cable this morning, I dragged myself to Milagro for lunch and tea. It was sort of nice, sitting there and editing the chapter I presented to group last week, etc. I had just needed to get out. On the way home, I grabbed a pizza. The pizza place is sort of like Subway--they put it together there in front of you, with fresh ingredients, then you take it home and bake it. So I'll have an easy supper tonight. Now I'm working on re-entering edited chapters. But dang, I'm tired, so I don't know how far I'll get. Seems good to be getting at least something done, as work was rather neglected over the last week.

This week could be busy as well, with the cleaning service appointment tomorrow, and now I think I'd best make an appt for dog with a vet, as he has developed a newish lump on his side. It also would not hurt to establish a new doctor out here for him. In addition, when I drove into the garage, I noticed a puddle of muck in the center of the floor. I don't think it was there before, and I checked my oil, which appears to be fine. So, it's probably a good idea to get an appt to have the car checked in case something IS leaking. ::rolls eyes:: Meanwhile, I want to get started on figuring out the possibility of getting some parts of the house repainted and re-floored. The flooring may have to wait till I come back, but we'll see. Depends on moola and how soon I can be fit in for such things. Wish I could just snap my fingers and make it so. This house was not "turn key" when I bought it, but I think it will be worth it.

I'd rather be writing my novel...

Trying to Fill the Void

2012-01-21T15:10:00.000-05:00

What a busy week. MelBob kept me going. Yesterday we went up to White Sands National Monument, which was spectacular, and then drove back down to the new house where we moved some crap out of the studio to the curb (hope it's all gone by the time I go down there next), then returned home for a steak dinner and then off for a meeting with the Sisters of the Moon.

Got up at 3:30 a.m. to take MB to the airport. That hour, on a Saturday morning, works out traffic-wise. I returned home and went back to bed. House seems awfully empty and lonely now. Dog appears to be sapped of energy, too. He's gonna be bored when he perks up and realizes MB is gone.

I imagine this weekend will consist of trying to recover. Monday morning I need to meet the Merry Maids at new house. As I have just a week left in the rental, I'll be cleaning out here and moving into new House. Hopefully my new aerobed arrives soon. I'll be looking into getting some painting done and investigating new flooring. Editor lady should be making her short visit around 2/3. Got to catch up on work, too.

Currently I've got cable on to help fill the void--Flying Wild Alaska. Makes me want to become an Alaska bush pilot :)

Smudged

2012-01-19T23:19:00.000-05:00

Today was, as anticipated, a mellow rest day. Late this afternoon we met C. and D. at the new house for the smudging. I will note that the laundry basket full of towels and stuff had disappeared. The house got smudged, we got smudged, and so did the dog, then we popped open the champagne and had some fudge and cookies MB had made, all the above being very good. Yhe champagne is from Albuquerque. It is clear the kitchen will make a great gathering spot. Each time I go to the house it feels a little better.

After eating and drinking, we went to Andele's for dinner. This time I had a chile rollano (spelling that wrong). A wonderful convivial evening. We ate on the patio, which is not something I would've wanted to do in Maine tonight.

Tomorrow it looks like we're going to head up to White Sands National Monument, and the gods know what else we'll do!

Another Busy Day Around Town

2012-01-18T23:58:00.000-05:00

Gorgeous day here, today, mid-60s, with a little breeze. MB, dog, and I headed downtown for the market, which was, as I expected, much smaller on a Wednesday, with fewer people in attendance. In a way, it was nice, because you could see certain items more than when there are so many booths and shoppers. We both got a cup of Beck's coffee (I was impressed she remembered me after the few times I've been there) and looked over the available wares. From there, to the co-op, as MB decided she was going to cook me a real meal tonight. Then I tried my navigational skills again to get into Mesilla, without having looked at a map beforehand, guessing which streets joined with which streets. You see, I was going there from a new direction. We got there, eventually. Probably would have gotten there sooner had I known what I was doing. Ate lunch out on the patio at Andeles, and then we went to the new house to await the lady from Merry Maids for my consultation. No one had taken the laundry basket full of towels yet. The seller's agent had not left me another unpleasant letter. The koi seemed content.

MB and I hung out in the front courtyard sunning ourselves, she on her computer, me with my eyes closed, and the sound of the koi's waterfall burbling. Dog waited for something more exciting to happen. The Merry Maids lady came and looked around and consulted. She really seemed to like the house. She asked if my "friend" was also moving in. I said no, she was just visiting. I did not add that MB's husband might be annoyed if his spousal unit did not return home. In any case, the Merry Maids will come and do a good cleaning of the house to, as I've said elsewhere, remove the previous owner's accumulation of cooties. We then returned to the rental house and Skyped with writing group, and then Mel prepared a fabulous chicken and mushroom dish, with roasted veggies and a salad. Now we're just hanging out listening to soft music and looking at our computers.

I think tomorrow will be a quieter day. I hit a wall of exhaustion today, and she's got a cold, so I think taking it easy for a while is called for. At 4:30 we shall meet C&D at the new house for the smudge ceremony (and champagne), and then proceed to dinner in Mesilla afterwards.

Soon to bed.

All About Town

2012-01-18T00:59:00.000-05:00

The final paperwork drama for the house and its utilities is now done and over with. ::knock on wood:: What a pain in the @$$.

I continued to hone my navigational skills today, driving hither and yon. We tried to get lunch at the local brew pub, but thir gas line was down, so no cooking. So, we backtracked to a mom 'n pop Mexican restaurant. C & D had taken me there on one of my visits, and it's a popular eatery. Today its patrons included two cops, blue collar guys, business people, retired folk, some ladies in scrubs, etc. So it was a good alternative to the brew pub, which we'll hopefully return to. Then it was off for MB to get a therapeutic massage from C., while I hoofed it to City Hall to finish the paperwork thing. After that, we delved into the local, very expansive, used book store. I picked up a Kate Elliot book, and a new book on the pony express. Off to a couple markets we went, then home briefly to liberate the dog. And then off to the Chinese buffet place. (Ruth, I tried the hot and sour soup and it was excellent.) I was going to try a spicy octopus. I put it on my plate, brought it to the table, but then I just couldn't do it. I've eaten tentacle rings, but not a whole baby octopus. So I went on to dessert.

Back at home we sipped hot toddies as MB has a cold, and spent a quiet rest of the evening. Tomorrow is the farmer's market--I have no idea what it's like on Wednesdays, but we'll give it a try, then we meet with Merry Maids at the new house for a consultation/estimate to rid it of the seller's cooties. More objects are likely to be left by the side of the road for scavengers.

Busy, busy week.

Garden Ornaments

2012-01-17T01:24:00.000-05:00

The balloonists lucked out that the winds did not come a day or two early. Today was warm, but gusty, up to 40 mph, and blowing dust around. I was bushed from yesterday's adventures, so we had a mellower day today--lunch at Spirit Winds (appropriate re: the wind?), then to B&N for browsing (mostly a toy store these days), then down to the house to say hello to the koi and so forth. The seller's agent had slipped a letter under the gate for me blah blah blahing her position re: when the seller was supposed to, or not supposed to vacate the house. Definitely a drama queen. I am sending it to my realtor to do with as she likes. I'm not going to respond otherwise. Maybe I'll write a new book:Realtor Wars.

MB and I then went through various cupboards to remove the crap the seller left behind. Tons of towels, a sketch book, soy milk (in fridge), etc. Naturally things were very dusty, too. I've decided to get a cleaning estimate from Merry Maids. I'll feel better when the house no longer has his dust and grime in it.

From the entry courtyard I also removed a small garden statue of a fairy. There are several little garden ornaments, and none of them go together--the fairy, St. Francis, a funny frog, Victorian gazing ball, ceramic mushrooms. I knew someone who might like the fairy for her back patio, so after we were done at the house, we stopped at C. and D.'s and I presented it to C. She did like it, and she thinks she may know of a home for St. Francis. MelBob doesn't know it, but she may be getting the frog when I return to Maine... Don't know what I'll do with the Victorian gazing ball. Maybe put it on the curb with the laundry basket full of towels.

Then we came home, MB made spaghetti, I dealt with real estate things (can't wait till it's all DONE), and we watched Castle. I also wrote out checks for quarterly taxes, which hurt after the house downpayment. Someone pay me please.

Well, I am overtired still from yesterday and not feeling well, so time to sign off.

Up Up and Away!

2012-01-16T01:42:00.000-05:00

Long busy day today. We got up before the crack of dawn to attend the hot air balloon rally. I've been hot air ballooning many years ago, and in the town where I grew up there was a group of avid balloonists and often they would drift over our house and hang over the lake. Periodically as many as four or five would go up. It was nothing like standing in the middle of a field and watching a whole bunch of 'em inflating all around one and then drifting up into the heavens. It was like a garden of giant silk flours blossoming. (I'll try not to get too poetic.) In any case, all very nice, not overcrowded, and friendly people. The dog did well. Other dogs were, of course, more exciting to him than the balloons. I still can't help but wonder how his little dog brain processed it all.

From the farm field we headed out to The Shed for breakfast. My wayfinding skills were excellent once again. Apparently I'm getting the hang of the various cross streets. I had a breakfast enchilada, and MB had Migas, which I may try next time. It was a very nice breakfast after being out in the chill morning air (not as chill, of course, as Maine).

From The Shed, we went on to the new house so I could show MB around, and then we walked into Mesilla, peeked in a few shops. The dog was duly admired at La Zia. We paused for mochas at the Bean, and then back to the house. From there, MB wanted to get closer to the mtns, so up to the mtns we went, and walked a little on one of the trails.

From there, it was back to the rental house, our computers, and lunch. I made chili for dinner, and then we got caught up in watching some cable shows. And here we are. I've had a sore-ish throat since this afternoon, and now my head is starting to feel "wrong." Oh well. Tomorrow we may go hang out at Barnes & Noble (I haven't been there yet) and I'm sure find enough mischief, but no getting up at the crack of dawn.

Looks like my editor will be visiting in February.

House Mine

2012-01-15T01:31:00.000-05:00

That tummy problem I had earlier this week might have been an intestinal bug that's going around the county. Nice.

Got some sleep, which was nice, and did not hurry to get to the new house. Dog and I went down 11ish. I know the house is now mine, but it still felt strange... The seller left all his garden decor and potted plants. He kindly left me a bag of pecans and a pecan shell cruncher. He unkindly left me a shed full of paint cans and...whatever else was in there. I may be able to make use of the paint if it's not too old because now that his stuff is out of the house, I can see where there needs to be painting done. He left stuff in the studio too, that I was not anticipating. I did not even look in the other shed, or in the cupboards. Not to be sexist, but he was a bachelor and did not seem to go to great lengths to keep things neat and tidy. At least he was out, and I could finally unload some of the things I brought down--dishes, pans, some special knick-knacks. Dog got to pee and poop on everything outside (and at one point I thought he might jump into the koi pond)and he adored the kitchen courtyard because it wasn't gravel, it smelled of other dogs, and he didn't have to be on a leash. He rolled and dug and sniffed, etc. He dragged in all manner of leaves and dirt. In any case, he seemed to approve of the place. On my end? There is going to be a bit of cleanup and decisions about painting and flooring. The studio is not really ready to be an office as is. Spent some time figuring out light switches, and I turned off one switch that did not seem to do anything. Dog and I left house and I realized the waterfall to the koi pond had stopped running. The koi looked annoyed and concerned. So I realized that switch indoors was not for a light, but for the koi's water pump.

From there it was back (rental) home to arm wrestle with the cable internet. I lost track of time and realized that it was past the time I wanted to leave for El Paso to pick up MelBob at the airport. When I took dog out before leaving, lady across the street pointed out hot air balloons in the air. I slept through this morning's rally, and some lifted again this afternoon. But I had no time!! As I backed the car out into the street, one of the balloons had practically set down behind my house, but there was no time to pause and take a picture. As it was, I made it to the airport about the time MelBob landed.

Once back in town, I actually found my way to a restaurant I wanted to go to just by making guesses about where I was, and where I needed to go. Intuition served me well. At the restaurant, we met a couple from Carlesbad who come here for doctor appts and such (3 hour drive). Turns out she is a fantasy reader and knew my name. It's funny, but when people ask me what I write, I never expect them to know or like fantasy, and certainly not to know my name.

Tomorrow morning we are going to roll out of bed way early (hopefully) to watch the hot air balloons ascend.

Closed

2012-01-13T21:22:00.001-05:00

Last night was evile. I did not get to sleep till after 4a.m. Part of it might have been the two coffees I had in the afternoon or just the whole general life change thing, but I wasn't feeling good and my brain kept nattering on about this and that. Considering all that, I've done pretty well all day.

The closing was at 11:00. What can I say? It went well. I signed a bunch of papers. Then I came home to await word that the paperwork had gone through, and then the house would be mine. In the meantime, I loaded the car with certain items. word that the house was mine came around 3:00, and so then I went to city hall to apply for gas, water and sewer, but the piece of paper I'd been given was not adequate. I'll have to go back on Tuesday. Then I swung by the house. The plan was to introduce the dog to it, take pix for family and friends, and leave stuff there. When I pulled by, the seller was STILL loading his UHaul. So I did not stop. Our understanding was that he was going to be out by closing. I stopped down the road and contacted my realtor, and she contacted his realtor, and they had a bit of a "discussion." In any case, the seller is supposedly out now. Am I going over there now that it's night? Nope. After I talked to my realtor, I picked up wings for dinner, and once I got home (rental home), I wasn't going anywhere. So I'm just relaxing, watching Ghost Adventures. Current episode is at the Stanley Hotel. I've been to the hotel, and it was a beautiful old place, but I sure didn't feel anything ghostly. However, I wasn't the for the night or anything.

In any case, onward and upward. I have a feeling I won't be in any condition to get up way early for the balloon rally. I need to finish picking up for MelBob's visit, then will eventually have to head out to ElPaso to pick her up. Hope there are no flight difficulties.

QWERTY

2012-01-12T23:35:00.000-05:00

Oh man, upset tummy...

So today was the final walk through. The seller, however, was not moved out and cleaned out like he was supposed to be. He was in progress, so we checked the house as it was. My realtor asked if I wanted to go through it again tomorrow morning before closing, but as I am not a hard ass, I said no. The seller seems earnest enough that he will do as he is supposed to. I am not always a good judge of character, but in this case I think I am.

I'm going to get lost in the house. And, I may not be inheriting kitty, I will be inheriting the koi in the koi pond. Plus, various geraniums and a mini-pear tree and about seven pecan trees. Then there is the whole irrigation thing that stymies a born-and-raised northeasterner like me. Interesting times ahead. Apparently one of my new neighbors owns property in Maine...

Hello new life.

When You're a Flat Tire

2012-01-11T23:48:00.000-05:00

A much calmer day, but I felt like a flat tire. Today they took my money. Yup. Wired it to the title company. I might try some panhandling for a while... Also needed to hook up utilities to my own accounts. I did electric today, but I just couldn't mentally deal with the rest. Tomorrow. There is always tomorrow, until there isn't. Interestingly the seller had the house and studio set up as two separate accounts with the electric company, and I decided to keep it that way for tax and accounting purposes, but it means I pay a double hookup fee. We do the final walk through tomorrow. The trusty D. will be with me, a nice calming force.

Tonight I Skyped with the writing group, or, at least the three of us who could. Two are off on family business. I'm so glad this technology exists so we can do this--the group keeps me honest and on my toes. I've already scribbled in fixes for the chapter I read tonight. I've been meaning to do some housework for MelBob's arrival, but when you're a flat tire, you're a flat tire. Miraculously I did a load of laundry, but that's about it.

Art is ongoing for the cover of the short story. I'm toying with the idea of starting to look over another one for self-publication. It's never been published, mostly because I had no idea where to send it. It really doesn't fit neatly into a market. So, it would be nice to finally be able to do something with it, not worrying about its market. The market, I guess, would be, well, me.

They had been predicting possible snow for the weekend, but last I heard it's all sun now. Yesterday, with all the excitement, I think I forgot to mention that we had fog. Yes, fog in the desert. I hear that it's pretty unusual, sorta like the amount of snow we've had. Interesting to look at the mountains from time to time after there have been clouds and see that they're coated with new snow, or it's melted some. Talked to one of my neighbors yesterday who works up at White Sands (the missile range) and he has to drive over the pass every night. He says what a different world it is up there when it's snowing. I guess I wouldn't want to be driving through the mountains in those conditions.

I am going to miss this couch when I leave this rental house. I think the dog is going to miss his couch, too.

Tuesday, Quite a Day

2012-01-11T02:44:00.000-05:00

Man, what a day (Tuesday). Too much packed into one short period. Day started with an email from UK editor that I, along with other Gollancz authors, had been nominated for the Gemmell award. So I sent emails off to my agents to let them know. I announce it on FB and am taken aback by the response. Meanwhile my realtor emails me re: new house stuff, including instructions for wiring downpayment. My foreign rights agent congratulates me on the award nom., and tells me book one has sold to Japan. Then I call my financial institution and receive more instructions. Then I start watching the procession for the memorial service for Ranger Anderson slain at Mt. Rainier on New Years Day. (By the way, for the benefit of my Canadian friends, not only was there a U.S. flag on the stage to honor her, but a Canadian flag as well. She was born near Toronto.) This is very emotional, on top of the house stress and the award and Japan excitement. While I'm watching the processional and eating lunch so I can head out to get bank stuff notarized and overnighted, my accountant finally calls. Eventually I do get to the UPS Store where I get notary service and overnight mailing. I leave and make a tricky, but well executed, left turn across a busy four lane street. Then off to HellMart where I'm tempted to buy hard liquor, but settle for NM wine for MelBob's visit, and Ben &Jerry's for tonight. I resist the urge to engage in shopping therapy now that funds are going to be rather tight.

::splat:: I think that says it all.

Slow down, you move too fast...

2012-01-09T18:33:00.000-05:00

Got to make the morning last...

Not feeling groovy today, more like crappy. Don't know why. Did manage to drag myself out and take papers that needed initialing to the realtor's office, re: extending the closing to 1/17 because of the holiday. As soon as I got home, there was a message that the seller did not want to wait till Tuesday, and wanted to close Friday. So, whatever. Then he offered me some oddments for sale, as well as his cat (for free). It's a very nice cat and I'd probably take him if I didn't have to return to Maine to deal with stuff there. I just feel bad for the cat. The seller had ended up with him when a friend died. Now who knows what will happen to the poor thing? I am such a sucker for kitties, and this one would be accustomed to dogs. Just makes me sad wondering what will happen to him.

It's frustrating that I have three important messages out to people and they are not getting back to me.

Looks like the mtns got a new coating of snow overnight, but just rain down here as far as I can tell. It's been partly cloudy all day.

Good-bye lamp post and feelin' crappy...

Rain, Rain

2012-01-08T20:54:00.000-05:00

It's raining, has been since about 3:00. Not a bad thing when the state is still in drought conditions. The dog acts like he's never seen the stuff before.

Have worked on entering numerous pages into the computer. Need to focus on some house things tomorrow, and maybe visit the grocery store. Or, maybe not. Depends on my mood.Tonight is a new Once Upon a Time, and I've yet to have dinner.

A very quiet day, besides the book work. Watched some Pawn Stars while munching on popcorn. Just a nice rainy day kind of day. Never thought I'd hear myself saying that...

Checking Out the Neighborhood

2012-01-07T18:44:00.000-05:00

I did not attend the Centenniel parade. I didn't think I would. Somehow, a parade lasting 100 minutes or more, with 100 or more units, just did not appeal to me. I did hear the jet fly over. Instead, dog and I drove past the new house (closing now moved to the 17th because of the MLK holiday), and to the nearby cafe for lunch. We sat on the patio and I enjoyed a really good quesadilla and a cup of coffee. I people watched, and talked with one of the women who owns the place who came over to meet the dog. All very pleasant. Then we walked along the irrigation canal that skirts the cafe to the road the new house is on. My goodness but it's cool how close that is!

And thence home to do some housework. MelBob arrives in a week, and soon after that, I will have to move out of the rental house, and thinking about that, I was aghast at how much I had Moved in! There will be some serious unmoving. At least none of it will be furniture.

Not quite feeling myself, and haven't been for a couple days. Don't know what's up. Big plans for the evening probably consist of writing, unless one of my shows is on...

100

2012-01-06T19:35:00.000-05:00

Despite yesterday's blah, I managed to draft 9 pages. Today? Nada, thus far. Still blahed from yesterday--ended up taking a nap on the couch. Odd how yesterday's sleep disruption is still messing me up. Happily I'll be going to the Moon Sisters tonight--no snowstorm today to cancel it. Temps are in the 60s today.

Happy 100 years of statehood New Mexico! Tomorrow there is a parade in town and other various activities. Hopefully I can get my butt up and moving to do something.

Blah Day

2012-01-05T19:31:00.000-05:00

Not a stellar day. Dog woke me up at 5 a.m. with a problem he periodically has. It demolished my morning, and pretty much the afternoon, too. Very little was accomplished today, but there was much quiet panicking about finances re: taxes and house downpayment. Still haven't heard from the accountant. Grr.

As per the El Paso news, don't stick your arm in a running washing machine. You may lose your arm...

Daytime temps in the 60s until next week. Saw another jack rabbit a little while ago.

Shhhh

2012-01-04T21:49:00.000-05:00

Dear me. It's only 7:40 pm, but it feels like midnight. Pretty much a quiet day with work on writing "cover copy" for the short story, financial stuff, and the novel. A trip to pick up a prescription. I went in short sleeves. :)

Now watching American Restoration. More old stuff...

Fun with Finances

2012-01-03T22:13:00.000-05:00

Yes, Storage Wars is on, and I've also become addicted to Pickers and Pawn Stars. Sheesh. These are sort of variations on Antiques Roadshow. Makes me think some of the stuff piled up in my parents' basement might be worth something.

Finally got down to the city library and did some research on early photography. Stopped at Starbucks on the way home for a mocha frappuccino, and got something undrinkable. Fortunately they replaced it with something palatable. Back home, I fixed bits of a chapter thanks to research, and have been pulling together my 2011 expenses. (Medical expenses really bad in 2011.) I may be away from home, but I still have to take care of business. Another reason I'll also be leaving before the end of February. Gotta get ready for the accountant!

Actually, gotta get ready for the accountant now, as the quarter is ending. Which is just great since I'll be making a downpayment on a house, too....

The Second Day of 2012

2012-01-02T17:21:00.001-05:00

Continued quiet here. Mr. Dog barfed earlier, so we're taking it easy. Watched the second half of the Rose Bowl Parade and entered pages into the typed ms. That should be the program for the rest of the day.

Last night I heard about the national park ranger who had been shot and killed in the line of duty at Mount Ranier National Park yesterday. It may be several years since I worked for the NPS, but I still feel a part of the family. I didn't know Ranger Anderson, but I know people who knew and worked with her, and that's the way it is in the NPS. My friend, who is the curator at Mount Ranier, said that all the employees were going to be briefed/debriefed today, and they'd find out if the park would be re-opened. It is actually a double tragedy--the alleged shooter is a veteran of the war in Iraq and is said to suffer from post-traumatic syndrome. Makes me wonder if he ever got any help to deal with it. The tragedy is that he probably didn't.

Ranger Anderson leaves behind a husband and two little girls. I am glad that the news reports are including mention of the law that now allows assembled firearms into the national parks, if the state the park is in permits it. Allowing unassembled, unloaded firearms into the parks was not enough for certain politicians. Of course, in this case, whatever law that was in place probably would not have stopped the shooter. Unfortunately national parks are not immune to violent crime. Few visitors hear about the dangers rangers face on the borders with drug runners, marijuana growers in the deeps of Sequoia National Park, and the like.

My friend at the park asked me to pray for Ranger Anderson's family. My thoughts are with them and my park family as well.

[Edit: the shooter's body was found today in the park. Apparently he died from exposure.]

2012

2012-01-01T18:56:00.000-05:00

The new year came in quietly, at least on my part. Did some work a few hours up u til midnight. Just before midnight dog and I stepped out to watch various fireworks. I have a decent vantage looking down into the city, and it was all right until neighbors started shooting off fireworks. It scared the dog so we went inside. I had started watching Dick Clark's Rockin' Eve, but they do not show it live here, which means I think, they try to correspond the ball drop with our midnight. It's stoopid because we know it's not live. Why not let us see it live, celebrate eastern time, and then get updates through the time zones as midnight rolls over?

I am likewise confused as to when the Rose Bowl parade airs here, so I saw none of it. I turned on Storage Wars instead. I had to turn it off if I ever wanted to leave the house to go hiking. We went over to Tortugas Mtn and putzed around on one side of the mtn, as my lungs are not adapted to hiking at this elevation, and there was only an unhelpful map at the trailhead, and the trails were not signed. But, it was good to get out and stretch our legs. A beautiful day considering it's January.

As for the new year? It is bringing change, and I hope it is overall positive. I would especially like to increase my productivity. As a funny aside, I dreamed my U.S. publisher was going to send me on an European book tour.

Quietly Ending the Year

2011-12-31T00:15:00.000-05:00

Went back to the warehouse club to recover the box of pens I left in my shopping cart, and that is probably the extent of the day's excitement. For some reason, it took until around 3:30 a.m. to fall asleep, so I wasn't feeling overly brilliant today. Morning dream had me possibly buying a place in Florida in addition to, or instead of, the place here. It was a little house that you bought like a condo, and there were others in the development, but the are was natural and heavily wooded so you didn't see the other houses. There was a small stable associated with the house, and I could have a horse if I wanted. There were lots of trails going through the woods to ride on. In addition, there was shared access to a beach. I was looking at the place with my parents and a realtor and was about ready to buy it on the spot.

Did work a little, but mainly I'm sucked into watching Ghost Adventures. In the current episode, the dudes are in Edinburgh, and it makes me want to return to Scotland.

Will probably get a pizza tomorrow for the "big" night. Seeing as 9 p.m. felt like midnight tonight, I don't know if I'll stay up tomorrow night. Of course, the ball drop in NY will be 10 p.m. here...

Domestic Bliss

2011-12-29T22:40:00.000-05:00

I committed Dyson. Yes, I got myself another Dyson. Decided I wanted it before the end of the year for tax purposes. And I am very happy to use a good vacuum in this house, rental or not, and I'll have something to clean the new house with. I've been trying to remember when I got the first one. Early 2000s? The new one is much lighter and easier to maneuver (not the ball Dyson) which makes my elbows happier.

Except for the outing to the warehouse store for 'script and vac, I stayed home and revised the afterword essay for the short. MelBob went through and did an edit on it, so a few more fixes and I'll call it good, and no more drowned, preserved corpses for a while. Next on the agenda will be making a list of tags so the story can be found on the internet, and then waiting for the art.I'll also proof during that time. Maybe I'll even start prepping another old story. Nah, gotta get back to the novel.

In fact, I think that is how I will spend the turn of the year--working. I wouldn't be in this business if I didn't love what I do, and I'm happy to have uninterrupted time. I'm not sure what goes on around here on New Years. I'll have to look into it.

Meanwhile, dealing with a headache trying to be a migraine. Grrr.

Being Quiescent

2011-12-29T00:46:00.000-05:00

Another nice stay at home day. I slept right in, and then quietly worked on the afterword for the short story. I do not recall any dreams resulting from researching and thinking about drowned, preserved corpses, though my dreams were active. I did not expect to make contact with writing group tonight, but they worked out Skype and I got to read the afterword to them. I received several good suggestions, which I'll work on for a while before bed.

Tomorrow I need to venture forth into the world to pick up a prescription. Heading to a cafe may be an option, but at the moment I seem fairly content to coccoon. Now that I know I will be here for "a while", there is less urgency to go out and do.

Weather has been milder and sunny, and for once it's snowing at my sister's north of Syracuse and not here.

Underwater Corpses

2011-12-28T03:13:00.000-05:00

So what do you do at 1:00 a.m.? If you are me, you get off track and start researching how corpses can preserved under the right conditions in freshwater lakes. The one specific example is that of "Whitey" who drowned aboard Kamloops on Lake Superior in 1929. There are many tales/urban legends about masses of corpses dumped in Lake Tahoe. I even heard stories about the lake I grew up on... All this because I was trying to write an afterword for the short story I am going to epublish. Since I was a kid I heard these stories and how the preserved corpses would be a waxy white, but intact, unless taken to the surface. Something about the body's fat does that.

One can now only wonder what sorts of dreams I'll have....

Strange Meatballs

2011-12-25T22:10:00.000-05:00

Yay. Another holiday survived. I always feel like "writer interrupted" around the big holidays, and even if said holidays are nice, I'm always glad to get back to business. Of course, this year is complicated by house business. And naturally, publishing people will be off until the New Year, so it's not all back to work as usual just yet.

I am whacked. I think there was too much partying last night, and a dog wanting me to get up much too early this morning. I am hoping tonight will be early to bed. Tomorrow, shopping may ensue with She-Who-is-Visiting. Whaaat? More shopping? It's like...strange meatballs.

A Peaceful Day

2011-12-24T00:35:00.000-05:00

Well, I had about three inches of snow here. One can only laugh. Our evening with the Moon Sisters was cancelled, which is probably wise. They do not use salt on the roads here, and I imagine there is some black ice out there. Today was nice and relaxing for a change, so perhaps the snow was not a bad thing. Hung out online, took a nap, conducted some minor business. Made lentil soup and cornbread, ate cookies. Started typing in a short from an anthology that was published back in 2003, which will be turned into an epub. Unfortunately I don't have a digital copy here, hence the retyping. Meanwhile, I've been watching Ghost Adventures. We will soon be to bed.

I guess tomorrow is Christmas Eve. Not sure how the day will proceed, but we're supposed to go down to Mesilla for luminaria, caroling, and Mexican hot chocolate. Hopefully the weather will not interfere, although today was nice and peaceful.

Winter Comes

2011-12-21T18:48:00.000-05:00

Sunshiney morning and cloudy afternoon. I decided to take a day off and forget about signing papers or going to stores, or anything. For a low energy person, I sure have been using a lot of energy. In any case, I decided dog and I had not had a proper walk in a while, so out to the desert we want. I was rewarded by a vista of snow on the mountains, and sightings of a jack rabbit and a hawk. Dog was oblivious to the jack rabbit. Fast little suckers!

Otherwise, laying low until 7 p.m. when we head down to El Paso to the airport to pick up She-Who-Is-Visiting. It will be good when all the house stuff mellows out, if it ever does and I can focus more on the writing. It seems I get the most writing done at bedtime, currently. Couldn't sleep last night, so took out pen and paper and scribbled for an hour or so.

Hope everyone has a nice Solstice, whether it's today or tomorrow, or whatever.

Terrific Tuesday

2011-12-20T18:50:00.000-05:00

First of all, there is snow on the mountains just for she who arrives tomorrow!

Second, the inspection on the house went Very Well! The seller has obviously kept up on his maintenance, and he seemed like a very pleasant, kind person himself.

Third, lunch and coffee at Spirit Winds!

Fourth, a prescription that normally costs me $100 at home cost me only $50 here. Plus, the gas at Sam's Club was still at $2.77.

Fifth, the Sisters of the Moon meet on Friday to celebrate the new moon!

Hope Tuesday is good to everyone else, too.

Unsettled Sunday

2011-12-18T18:00:00.000-05:00

Someone, please send me my Dyson! Have done a little cleaning today and stuff is looking better, but I miss my Dyson. The vac here in the rental is not nearly as nice. I'm afraid I've been spending an inordinate amount of time online looking for deals on Dysons (far and few between). Since my new studio will need cleaning, I thought I could use it as a tax write off, but there are so many expenses just now. Still paying for my journey out here. I will get the carpets in the new place cleaned, but if I'm there for a month, won't I want to vacuum? It's not an emergency, I guess. Dysons are expensive machines, but well worth the price.

This morning I woke up early with still more asthma problems (another reason for wanting my Dyson) and my mind started chattering so I tended to a few things. I have decided I want to epub some stories, so my head was going on about all that, but then I dropped back to sleep and was dreaming about the road construction sites here and complaining to whoever was in the car with me that the sites were not marked as well as they were in the east. I slowed down because some road crew guys were walking across the road to the work site. Then one must have stopped in the middle of the road because I hit him/ran over him. It was not my fault, but certain family members(dream people, not real people)practically criminalized me. I was hoping to prove it was not my fault, but these dreams don't usually go well. And then the phone rang. Actually it barked, a ringtone for a friend. It was 10 a.m. here, and she'd forgotten the time difference. We made arrangements to talk later and I eventually rolled out of bed. So it was probably good she woke me up or the dream might have gotten worse.

After I do some more cleaning and laundry, I am faced with writing out bills and signing bank papers. Ho ho ho.

Fiesta!

2011-12-17T18:31:00.000-05:00

I woke up with my asthma acting up. Not severe, but noticeable. We have a weather system moving through, which could be the cause, and I'm told a chance of thunder and lightning tomorrow. Despite the asthma, had a marvelous morning with C. at the market, and then we drove past my future home so she could see where it is, then went to the cafe that is so very close by, and between rediscovering just how nice the location is and consuming a certain amount of caffeine, I got very excited. We had a good chat over our coffee and muffins and we discovered we had a mutual love of cemeteries.

Since I'll be moving into a grown up home, I decided I wanted grown up dishes to go in it, and I've been on a Fiestaware kick. I knew Khols carried it, so I asked C. how to get there. After she left me off, I looked up Khols on the internet and saw they were having a three day xmas sale, including Fiestaware, so I went, I saw, I conquered, and came home with a turquoise set and a cobalt blue set. This rental house has only oatmeal-colored dishes that match the oatmeal-colored walls, which match the earth tone tile, so I think I'm a little hungry for color and may make use of the Fiestaware before I move to the new house. Since I purchased a certain amount, I got Khols bucks which I can use after xmas, and undoubtedly there will be more sales. (Living where there is actual shopping is dangerous.)

I also came home with a Grinch Tee. I don't feel like a Grinch, but I've always liked the character art (Max is also on it), and there are certainly years I feel Grinchy.

The rest of the day is for whatever. Cleaning, working, napping? I'd better do some cleaning because someone is coming soon for a visit, and I am not talking about Santa, though she does come from the Great White North :)

The Next Step

2011-12-16T00:59:00.000-05:00

Well, the mortgage man didn't bounce me out of the bank today. It looks like I am actually going to be buying a house ::gulp::. I was so stressed about the meeting that I developed a tension headache, but it went well. The next step is inspections.

After that, dog and I went to PetSmart. I hadn't intended to take him along, but he'd been pretty...crazed? When I had left him earlier that morning to go to the post office. More than usual, anyway. I don't know what upset him. So he got to go someplace new, and as a result got a manicure. Plus his food and other stuff.

I did, by the way, sleep beautifully last night. Hope to again tonight.

Ayup

2011-12-14T23:07:00.000-05:00

The seller accepted my offer on the house. So, on to the next step we go. The bank tomorrow afternoon.

This is a terrifying procedure mixed with a bit of excitement. I'm not sure how much of the reality has hit, but I sure didn't get much sleep last night, and don't know how I'll do tonight.

Bedtime Reading

2011-12-14T01:11:00.000-05:00

It was mostly rainy today, which this area needs. I don't have to shovel it, and that's all I care about. Although I do kinda appreciate the sun...

So the big news of the day is that I made an offer on a house. We shall see how it goes. It is all very scary. Lots of moola involved. I had better write books fast. Speaking of which, I didn't get much done today due to the hunt and the watching "Storage Wars" on A&E. It is fascinating to see what people find in abandoned storage units. I made one more snowflake while I watched. :)

I have a folder full of legal contract house-buying stuff on my lap with an intention of using it as bedtime reading. What could be better to put me to sleep?

Quiet Day

2011-12-13T00:40:00.000-05:00

It was overcast today, and we've gotten a smattering of rain this evening. Doppler Dave (that's the weather guy's name down in El Paso) predicts we could get up to an inch and a half by this time tomorrow night. Glad it's not snow this time. Looks like the big reservoire north of here should get some welcome precip, too.

Had mainly a quiet day of drafting and some online research, with an excursion to the post office. It is normally a busy place, but today the line was extra long with people like me wanting to send out packages. It marks the end of all my gift getting, wrapping, packaging, and sending duties. Cards were sent weeks ago.

Discovered a good use for unneeded draft pages: recycle/reuse as paper snowflakes, but I had to look up on the internet how to do the folds! Now if the draft pages came in different colors, I could make paper chains, too.

Tomorrow, more house hunting. Maybe I'll see the right thing this time. And someone else won't snag it before I have a chance to make an offer. And so it goes.

Adventures in Driving

2011-12-11T01:34:00.000-05:00

Got out of bed around 10 a.m. thanks to not falling asleep till after 3 a.m., and no thanks to whomever rang the doorbell at 8:23 a.m. I did not get up to see who it was, because no one I know would do this to me. WTF is someone doing ringing doorbells so early on a Saturday morning? They like taking their lives into their own hands? Grrr.

In any case, I decided the dog needed an outing after having been left at home so much. He actually barks at me when he knows I'm going out before I even put him in the crate. In any case, I saw several houses on Friday, but none of them said "buy me." There has to be some alchemy of the quality/character of the home, and its location, such as the 111 year old adobe I liked so much. I haven't bumped into that combination again. There was "Purple Carpets", a nice house with TWO soaking tubs, but not much character. And purple carpets. Overriding it all was the stunning view of the mtns. I hesitated here, too, and just after we left, someone looked at it and made an immediate offer and is under contract. Even though the house itself was bland, the view superceded that. Alas, I am slow, and this is all a learning process. I came back from Friday's house hunt feeling defeated, but then looked over the listings again and found some new possibilities that we'll hopefully look at this Monday or Tuesday. That brings me back to today. I decided to do drive bys of the three houses just to get a sense of them that I can't from the internet. I wrote out directions and got the thrilled dog into the car and off we went. I had not really driven in these areas before. Well, I promptly totally missed the turnoff for the first house, and so went on in search of the other two, and ending
up in unknown territory. So I ended up having to GPS my way around, but I did eventually even get back to that first house.

We spent a short time on the plaza in Mesilla, and of course I spent moola in La Zia, all the while trying to keep the dog away from the pottery. A toddler came right up to the dog to pet him. I don't think she was much taller than him! Fortunately he likes children. I think he at least relates to them on some level as playful creatures, pups, maybe. If I were the mom, I might hve been more cautious about my kid going right up to a strange dog, but the child was gentle with him.

Didn't do much else. I think I've finished the last of the xmas wrapping. I have three boxes to take to the post office. Watched a little bit og the Mitt and Newt show tonight because my cable is screwed up or something and I can see only one channel! Worse than Maine!

Well, time to try some sleep, I guess.

Cafe Writing

2011-12-08T18:42:00.000-05:00

I haz been good girl. This afternoon I went to Milagro's, one of the local cafes, and got a pot of tea and settled down for some drafting. I could have stayed home and done this, but it would have made the process less interesting and I might have just curled up and slept and wasted time. Milagro's was bustling, as it's finals week at the university and people were working on various things. My draft pages got referred to as a doctoral thesis (sorry, never got a masters!). There was something about being there among people that made it easier to work. (bass in neighbor kid's car stereo is making the house rattle.) Maybe it was that most of them were working as well? I could simply look up and people watch if I needed to "look out a window."

I hate constantly having to leave Mr. Dog, but I get tired of the house, and all I've been going out for is errands and house hunting. However, I will definitely be doing this again, either with Milagro's, or Spirit Winds. Since I'm still trying to learn my way around the city, next time I go on my own I'll make it Spirit Winds. Meanwhile, I'll try to find something fun to do with the dog this weekend. Maybe some walking/hiking at Turtle (a.k.a "A") Mountain.

Well, we hit at least 40 today. Felt much warmer.

A Chakra-ing We Shall Go

2011-12-07T13:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I resumed house hunting. Saw four more interesting houses, one with dynamic views of the mountains. Nothing I can jump in and say "BUY" yet, as most are more than I can really afford. Where's that movie deal? Meanwhile, that one house I had really liked is indeed under contract.

The snow continues to melt, though not as fast as I would have expected. It has been reiterated to me what an unusual event this was. Since it made the national news, I guess it was. And it's on its way eastward. I expect it will be a rain event along the Maine coast.

This afternoon, I'll be getting my chakras cleared. Apparently it's going to take two people to do this
;-) I'll take any help I can get.

Interestingly my body has slown down and has been more achy. I wonder if my usual blah has finally caught up with me, or if I am reacting to the colder, cloudier weather. Or maybe it's just stopped up chakras. I'll let you know....

I have a chapter printed out for writing group tonight, and another one almost drafted. Despite the fact I was out for a chunk of the day yesterday, I managed to draft four pages at bedtime. The other non-novel project looks like it will be a go, at least to see what happens with it. I should not be impinging on any contractual issues should I decided to self-publish.

My Feet are Cold

2011-12-05T19:43:00.000-05:00

I miss my radient heating system. Forced air is for the birds. So it has been a very amusing day. It has been snowing all day, yet back in Maine it was in the 50s. I had been advised not to go out on the roads here when it's snowing, so I stayed in. Friend D. says this is the most snow he's seen here. All the highways heading north, west, and east are shut down. As the snow creeps south, I imagine those highways will be shut down, too. Maybe there are a couple inches where I am. I can only giggle. If I find a house here, I may have to still spend my winters in Florida :)

Today I went over pronunciations for book 4 with the audiobook producer. I guess he, the narrator, and the engineer have had a great time working on the books, and #4 left the producer "breathless." If I'm still in Maine in September, he said he'd like to have lunch with me and his wife.

Wrote some pages today (the novel). I guess I'll do my shopping later this week. The snow is supposed to wane by tomorrow afternoon. It'd be interesting house hunting if it doesn't....

Stay at Home Day

2011-12-04T17:54:00.000-05:00

Another stay at home day. Headache is pretty much gone, but there is still pressure, and asthma is still a little bit up. So today I am cleaning, cleaning, cleaning, and then if I have any chutzpa left, I may put up some Christmas decore.

And yes, have been looking at house stuff online. It's just too hard to get a sense of stuff online, however.

Last night I started a new writing project. Not sure where it will go, or how far I'll get with it.

Mainly a cloudy day, but it looks like we are heading for clearing. When Ilooked out the window once, the ground was wet as if it had rained. Tomorrow? I have an appt to talk with Mr, Audiobook Man, and I'll probably do some shopping before then. That's all I do here!

Glumness

2011-12-03T18:52:00.000-05:00

Woke up early because I couldn't breathe, both stuffed and asthma. After I took care of that, I did end up going back to bed for a while. Unfortunately, I also have headache today, though not of migraine status. It may have something to do with the weather--or not. Big heavy clouds have been sitting on the mtns. They left snow there overnight. I guess we got only rain over night. Dog and I took a little walk to see what we could of snow on mtns, but they were mostly obscured by clouds. Pictures are on FB.

Well, besides not having a good head week, I was a little glum to discover that the house I liked so well is off the market, so someone else is snatching it up. Not surprising really, because it really was a great place, but I was not willing to take the leap without seeing other properties first--that had been only the second house I saw. Trouble is, I'm not seeing much that appeals to me. Guess I need a blockbuster to afford what I'd really like. So that, the weather and the headaches sort of have me down. It shall pass, I'm sure.

Today the neighborhood is filled with the sounds of children and dogs. Seems like the most life I've perceived in this neighborhood.

Winter Weather

2011-12-02T23:00:00.000-05:00

The headache was gone this morning, thank heavens, though I was tired from the experience. It did not stop me, however, from engaging in active consumerism as I contributed once again to the local economy. This morning C. and I went to the cool store with everything on sale and both of us came home with several treasures. I actually had to restrain myself from buying absolutely everything in the store. Everything I did get was for gifts, except a small gargoyle statue of a bat-winged cat, in honor of my late kitty, Batwing. He was quite the cat and the name suited him very well. I still miss my boys.

I think I am almost done with my shopping. That is, my gift shopping. Need to get back with the realtor re: houses at some point.

Those back east might be interested to know that it was really on the cold side here this morning--I wore leather jacket! Low clouds flossed between the mountains and the sky was leaden. It felt like winter and snow. Right now it's raining. It may change to snow overnight, or not. May snow again tomorrow night. Not sure if we'll get wild wind again.

Tonight I'm working on typing in the messy draft of a pain in the neck chapter. Sometimes I just want to beat on my characters. Not that they are really mis-behaving, but they're a bit balky or something. It's relationship crap. And I guess the problem is me trying to guess what is supposed to be coming out of their mouths and....I hate relationship stuff, or at least writing it when it's hard. So I'm here procrastinating. I'd better stop it.

Re-Blah

2011-12-01T22:11:00.000-05:00

So much for any plans I had for today, such as house hunting. Woke up with a migraine and that was it. While the migraine is mostly gone, I am left depleted. So I spent the day listening to soft Christmas music, making some gift orders online, sitting in the sun for a while in my bare feet, and chatting with my sister on the phone. Tonight I typed in last night's chapter, so at least I did *something*.

Tomorrow morning I'll be up bright and early to brave a sale at the cool store here. We'll see how it goes...

Lots of wind here. The power has been fluctuating a little, and the tumbleweed behind the wall in the backyard has shifted. But y'know, sitting outside in the sun in your bare feet on December 1st is not bad!

Less Blah

2011-11-30T22:07:00.000-05:00

Doing a bit better today. Went to Sam's and got more than I thought I was gonna, including a plush towel for the dog. Of course, the dog. After, went to a place to get a pizza. They make it fresh like Subway, then you bring it home to bake. Nope, not GF. There are no good GF pizzas here. Came home, napped on the couch, and Skyped with the group. There was quite a bit of interference compared to the other times we've done this, and I'm thinking, maybe it's the air force base! No sonic booms, though, since Monday or whenever that was. This week's chapter was a transitional, less intense one, and the group had a lot to say about it. Their observations were astute, and maybe tomorrow morning or Friday I'll fix stuff. Tomorrow afternoon I'm off on the house hunt again.

Got the X Factor on and the dog is being a royal pest. Don't know what his problem is. Whine, whine, whine. Maybe the new towel is not plush enough.

Woe

2011-11-30T00:39:00.000-05:00

Apparently sunshine can't cure all things. Have had a deeply blah fatigue day. I suppose not being able to get to sleep last night didn't help. I don't know why I go blah. It's not like I haven't tried to figure it out more than once, twice, or thrice. I guess we'll just call it fibromyalgia. It's the only "diagnosis" I've ever received.

Despite the blah, I scribbled out a few draft pages. It was a relationship related chapter and those just drive me bezerk. Cue the song "Feelings"... So I wrote some stuff, scratched a bit of it out, and scribbled in other stuff. Not sure it is legible. I more or less finished the chapter, and the characters have arrived at their destination, and the party may begin.

After talking to Doranna, I may try to write a short something to be self-published. I am thinking about a group of characters I have not explored in depth in the novels, and could actually use some background work on them. The trouble is that a novel is enough to fill my plate, especially when I'm dealing with the blah. But I'll toy with the idea, and if I manage it, it may be enough to help buy a piece of furniture or two for a new house. ;-)

Depending on the blah, I shall try to go to Sam's, and then I'll have a Skype session with my writing group. Nothing terribly exciting.

Sonic Boom(s)

2011-11-29T00:02:00.000-05:00

Today was another gorgeous day, if a bit chilly. (Up into the 60s in the afternoon.) Dog and I walked our strip of desert this morning, then I prepared to head out on another house hunting adventure. There was the unfortunate foreclosed house that must have once been nice (and could be again if you wanted to spend the money), but was also ill sited on low ground. One could see where water flow was getting at the foundation. There was the adobe mishmash, part adobe, part something or other, the really nice modern suburban house with an awesome tub on one acre, and the sort of sorry ranch stuck in the 70s. The really nice suburban house is on my potential list. The others are not. My favorite is still the 111 year old (totally updated) adobe in the city (I think of it as Victorian adobe cottage style--I don't know what Jim would call it!). The price sort of scares me though. We will convene once again on Thursday afternoon to look at more houses. It's kind of fascinating looking at the lives of other people through their houses.

Afterward, watched a dvd documentary at D.'s place on swords, then came back home to free the beast. This evening I have managed to draft about four pages. I am entering a section of the story I've been looking forward to for some time now, and would say it is comparable to the masquerade set piece in the last book. It will be both challenging to write, and interesting. Hopefully there will be some surprises for me, the writer, along the way.

This evening was disrupted by a BOOM! that shook and rattled the house. I was in the back and thought something blew up next door or a truck had hit the house. It was soon followed by a less intense series of booms. Apparently F-22s on night maneuvers breaking the sound barrier. As I recall, I've heard a sonic boom or two in Maine, but never so close! I hope my adobe in the city is still standing!!!

Hope to work on the book tomorrow and also go to Sam's Club. One of these days I'd like to go shopping down in Mesilla, and pick up more Christmas gifts. Or maybe I should tell everyone I'm buying myself a house for Christmas and they're not gettin' nothin'!! (Except an invitation to visit!) ;p

Quiet Time

2011-11-28T00:52:00.000-05:00

Today was a fairly quiet day. We didn't go anywhere, and frankly I was happy to stay put. I typed in a chapter and did some house cleaning, watched a holiday figure skating program. Actually, I listened more than watched, as the skaters were skating to Mannheim Steamroller.

Had quinoa spagehetti for dinner and watched more TV, and was generally unexciting.

When I took the dog out for the last time tonight, I also put some mail out, as well as the recycling, which allowed me to see that some houses in the neighborhood are sporting Christmas lights. For someone who lives in the woods (normally), it's refreshing. Also adds some character to these cookie cutter style houses.

Speaking of houses, tomorrow D. and I rejoin the realtor to look at more. Several on the list look to be on the outreaches, so we'll see if I'm a little bit country or a little bit...in need of the city. I get tired of having to drive to get anywhere.

Saturday in the Desert

2011-11-26T21:57:00.000-05:00

A slightly breezy but spectacular weather day. C. and I found the dog agility match with no problem and I got to meet Doranna, SG, and her trio of dogs, which was terrific after all these years of online communication. We missed Connery in action, but got to watch her work Dart through a couple courses. Dart, however, was not feeling cooperative. All very cool, photos on my facebook. From there, C. and I went for lunch at International Delights, and then to the local co-op, of which I became a member! Need to encourage them to get Against the Grain pizza. They just have the other yucky brand. Not that I've been completely gluten free or anything.

I think tomorrow is a stay at home day. I'll do some house chores and spend time with the dog, and do some book work, I think. Sounds like a plan.

Silly Rain

2011-11-25T18:59:00.000-05:00

I keep being told there is a drought here. Then why do we get this rain? Oh right, because I'm here! Actually, it wasn't just sprinkles here and there, but some good downpours. Since there is nothing to absorb the rain, the streets form rivers and ponds. Got to drive through a few this afternoon! The clouds, as always, have been dramatic.

In any case, today's big excitement was getting to the bank to talk to the mortgage guy about what I qualified for. He didn't really tell me anything I didn't know, so I was looking in the right range. The drive home was a little more exciting in that I ended up the wrong way on a one way road. But I worked around it and made it home safely. I got a mocha latte from Starbucks on the way home. I deserved it!

Whew. Tomorrow we go to find Doranna. I feel bad that she and the agility event got poured upon today. Hope they're all right!

Another Day in the Life Of

2011-11-23T22:38:00.000-05:00

Finally got a good night of sleep and staved off a recurrence of the headaches. So, dog and I got a little walk in the desert under hyper-blue skies with not a cloud anywhere to be found. Eventually it was onward to visit a couple stores, and ended up having to go to Albertson's. Not easy to find a parking spot, and not really where I wanted to go the day before Thanksgiving, but there I was. And then Target right next door. I was good and didn't go into Office Max.

Made lentil soup for dinner and it came out pretty good. One thing I discovered, however, is that the house does not have measuring spoons. Had I known that while I was in Target looking for a colander, I would have picked up measuring spoons.

Tomorrow is unturkey Turkey Day. We're supposed to get some rain. (This is my influence, of course. I am called "Rain Girl.") Friday I'll be talking to a mortgage officer at a local bank, and at some point this weekend catching Doranna and her quadre-peds in action. Lots of excitement. Actually the excitement will be locating the bank on Friday....

It was a Tuesday

2011-11-23T00:43:00.000-05:00

Another day of headache, but I managed to pull off another trip to Hellmart. Not much fun with a headache, but I survived. It at least reinforces my driving on a particular set of roads, and from there, the world is my oyster. I picked up ingredients to make lentil soup, but was too out of it. When I got home, I pretty much ended up snoozing on the couch with the sun warming me through the window. Heated up stuff from a box for dinner. Tomorrow, I think we'll stay put, except for a walk, which the dog seems to be in need of. I really would like to get at the next section of the novel. Hopefully headaches be gone!

I am saddened by the loss of Anne McCaffrey. I know she touched many lives with her writing. A friend gave me the first Pern book when I was in high school and I fell in love. I still reread those books now and then. I consider her a major influence. Now all my major writing influences (Tolkien, McCaffrey and Alexander) are gone. It was I who wrote her and asked if she would blurb my first novel. What a thrill that she did! I wish she could have stayed with us a little longer.

Finally, Dancing with the Stars is done for another season. Amen. Hope my friends and neighbors in Maine survive the storm!

Distractions

2011-11-21T18:42:00.000-05:00

The skies here have been very dramatic. At one point, the sky over the valley was clear, with a straight line of clouds cutting off toward the mountains. The clouds were threatening shades of blue, the mountains deep blue. I thought we would get more showers, and maybe we still will, but that patch missed where I am. Temps have been in the 60s for the most part, or at least at a guess.

Today was kind of a blah day after all the weekend's activity, and perhaps because of the weather. I awoke with a headache. Tried to work for a while and then came to a standstill deciding what set of events were supposed to happen next. I think I worked it out in my journal, but then did I proceed to write more? No, I got caught up in looking at mortgage information on the computer. After playing with calculators and whatnot, I came to the conclusion that I need to sit down with an actual bank person to talk things out. Being self-employed complicates matters that cannot be overcome with online forms and calculators, and it probably doesn't help that most of my papers are in Maine. Fortunately some can be reached via the internet.

Tomorrow I need to get to the post office, which will be that day's new adventure. Probably wouldn't hurt to hit a store. Should be fun with the Thanksgiving shoppers hunting holiday meal items. Got a Thanksgiving card today! As for my holiday, I am accompanying my friend's to another's gathering (I've met the hostess before). It will be my first vegan Thanksgiving. As for me, I'm thinking I'm gonna find me a pumpkin pie for my own self!

Well, I suppose I should actually try to accomplish something...

More Spending

2011-11-21T01:19:00.000-05:00

Another fine day in the desert. Sunshine makes me happy. I'm not sure about temps today, but probably in the 70 range.

Got going early to have brunch with C. and D. at the cafe with the cool store, only to be surprised by a call from a certain someone to let us know she is visiting for Christmas :)

This was followed by some serious xmas shopping. The store is ecclectic in a similar way that the Grasshopper shops back home are, only this is a smaller space without separate sections for toys, housewares, etc.After I spent a wad, I noticed there will be a storewide sale on Dec. 2. Wish I'd seen it BEFORE I blew a wad. We'll be back, grumble grumble....

Back home I did my domestic diva routine, including bills. My credit card bill didn't shock me as much as I thought it would. Perhaps next month...? Oh, and my xmas cards are all addressed and written out. I just need the annual letter to go with them, and stamps.

Quite tired. Took a while to get to sleep last night, and the crazy dreams kept me restless. Hoping for a better night.

Shopping Shopping

2011-11-20T00:20:00.000-05:00

This morning C. and I headed for the Farmers Market where I acquired more meat and officially began Christmas shopping. This year it's actually kind of fun, with lots of local and regional goodies to send folks back east. The market is more arts and crafts than farmers, and it is very lively with street musicians(there was a mariachi band today, among others), a sidewalk chalk artist, and lots of people and their dogs. We got henna designs on the backs of our hands, which was fun, but mine did not come out very dark. Then, because I wanted Christmas cards, we went down to Messilla and visited a shop with exquisite hand-woven rugs, and other goodies. It was inevitable we wandered into La Zia which had a particularly good selection of fetishes today. Therefore it was inevitable we left La Zia with fetishes in hand. I picked out a white wolf, or it picked me. It represents the east and new beginnings. He has cute turquoise eyes. Eventually we found Christmas cards. I find I need to get more as I'm a few short. Yes, tonight I started working on cards, getting them addressed and so forth. Despite the fact that it was 70 and mostly sunny, I can't allow myself to be fooled--Thanksgiving is this week and that means xmas is right around the corner.

And sooo, that was today's adventure. Tomorrow we're going to a cafe with a wicked cool shop attached, and undoubtedly I will continue my part to boost the economy.

House Looking

2011-11-18T20:44:00.000-05:00

A young kid just rang the doorbell trying to sell an enchilada plate. What I assume this means, is that you buy a ticket and go to the place where they make the enchiladas and get it. Sounds entrepreneurial. If I hadn't just had a "nacho plate", I might have given it a second thought.

So today C. and D. joined me and my realtor to look at houses this afternoon. I had chosen four that looked interesting to me, one of which was suddenly under contract and no longer available, but there was another house near the first one the realtor offered to show us. This one turned out to be my favorite, a sprawling 1920s(?????) adobe on a very large lot, within walking distance to the center of town. All it lacked was a writing tower :) It surprises me how much I liked this house, but I put it down to "character." It's not some rundown old house, but one full of updates that respect its age. A new waterless water heater, for instance, is hidden in a period built-in cabinet. I always thought of myself as nature girl wanting to have wild surroundings and access to trails and such. Not that I couldn't get to hiking trails in short order via car. So very interesting. I am, of course, going to be looking at lots of other places.

Another beautiful day. The temp reading on my car was 74 around 3:00.

Wednesday Already

2011-11-16T23:45:00.000-05:00

Today was a stay at home day. I did some polishing on Gritty Chapter and printed it out so I could read it to writing group. Did some other paper work, and...I guess I didn't do too much more with my day till 4:00 when I Skyped with the group. I think I flipped their wigs with the chapter. Who knows what the desert will do to you? It was great being with them and the Skype worked pretty well.

After, I made nachos for dinner using tortilla chips produced in Las Cruces, followed by Ben & Jerry's. Yum.

Plans for tomorrow? Going to pick up D., and he, the dog and I are going down to Mesilla to walk along the river(bed) and have some food at Andele's On the patio (so Mr. Dog can join us). As for now, I'm going to let CSI end and make fixes on the chapter. Then to bed!

Today's Adventure

2011-11-15T20:19:00.001-05:00

I wanted to get out to a couple stores today, so I undertook the exciting journey into the city. Only one minor problem, and I made my rounds triumphant. One stop was WallyWorld, and this time I took more time to look at stuff. It's always interesting to investigate regional differences, largely in the Mexican foods section, but in the sweetener section, I found agave sweetener. I don't think we have that in our store back home! I'm not sure I've even found it in the natural foods stores. No gluten free section, though. The funny thing that happened is that a young woman who couldn't find a WalMart associate asked me if I knew where the gravy was. I said it was only my second visit to the store and I had no idea. Turns out she had just moved to town, too. The store is confusingly set up, not at all like the far more orderly one at home.

Upon returning home, I was less triumphant to discover the dogs various accidents. I have ordered a folding travel crate from Doctors Foster and Smith. I had considered getting one before the trip, thinking more about hotels than the rental house. Poor dog doesn't get any of this. I had also picked up a toy squirrel for him at PetSmart thinking maybe he missed the ones in Maine. :)

Capped the afternoon off with another walk in the desert as the sun was going down. The high in El Paso today was 67. Not sure what it was here, but definitely short sleeve weather.

Tone

2011-11-14T18:26:00.000-05:00

Today was sort of a nothing day as I didn't go out or do much of anything. Must still be recuperating from the trip. I did finish off a chapter that I had started last night, so it wasn't a complete nothing day. I think it is one of the darker, grittier bits I've written in this series. In fact, the tone may not fit with the overall story, but I like it, and I'll see what the writing group thinks on Wednesday. Not sure what the trip out here did to my writing brain, but it must have stirred up some of the silt on the bottom. Yeesh.

It's another cloudy day with a few patches of sunlight. In fact the clouds cut off the toothy tops of the mountains. It is conceivable we could get some rain drops ere night falls.

I think tomorrow's big excursion will be HellMart. Would like to go other places, but can't seem to organize my mind about what to do and where to go. That's okay, I guess. It takes time and I still have two and a half months to go!

Dog looks bored. I don't blame him. He has his couch, and i have mine.

Domestic Diva

2011-11-13T19:12:00.000-05:00

Stayed in bed till late morning because Mr. Dog had problems that interfered with my sleep. But, I've vacuumed the place and washed sheets and towels. I suppose I could let the dirt pile up for three months and let someone clean up when I leave, but I'd rather not get black-listed by my realtor. I do miss my Dyson, but the washer and dryer here are much more capacious.

Aside from that, talked to MelBob and looked at real estate online. Tonight I'll be making tacos with yesterday's purchases from the Farmer's Market.

For those interested in weather, we are getting some light rain, as predicted. I find this very funny.

A Week and a Day

2011-11-12T16:41:00.000-05:00

So there is an outdoor piece of furniture in the backyard that I'm sitting on, and I've just finished a cup of tea. It's probably around 70 out, and part clouds, part sun, and a little breezy. Dog is out with me (of course) and I keep having to remind him not to bark at other neighbors and whatnot.

Earlier I took him and C. into town for the Farmer's Market. I picked up some veggies and grass-fed beef I'll use for tacos, as well as some Desert Flower Honey. Dog was pretty good with all the activity, but it'll be actually easier to shop without him. I have more beef reserved for me for next week, so maybe I can leave him home. This week he guilted me into it!

Last night met with the Sisters of the Moon, and dreamed that Peter Jackson was considering an option on my fourth book (in the dream it was apparently more stand alone). I'm not sure what else I'll be up to, but at the moment the sun is very intense, so I think I'll end right here.

Less Stuffed

2011-11-10T19:02:00.000-05:00

This morning my sinuses seemed to be less stuffed, and in fact, have been all day. Not completely well, but maybe going in the right direction. The rest of me? That remains to be seen. Still wiped out and..."not right" this afternoon. Head is floaty.

In any case, I felt well enough this morning to do a little work, which is something I haven't felt like since getting here. It wasn't anything major, but it was a startThen this afternoon, to test my wayfinding, I took C. back to Milagros coffee place. I did pretty good, and coming back, too. So I'm getting a couple of the major streets under my belt. At Milagros, I had a mixed berry smoothie and we sat and discussed writing for some time. Then we left at 4:00. Upon coming home I discovered Mr. Stressdog had peed on the floor again (and thankfully the tile), which leads me to thinking I need to leave him for shorter durations several times before leaving him for long periods. This may not necessarily possible, but... And the first shorter period I will be leaving him for will probably be me going to go out and buy a mop!!

For those interested, still sunny, temps in the mid-50s.

Sundate

2011-11-09T17:35:00.000-05:00

So finally I hit the wall with the sinuses and travel fatigue. Today I spent much of my day in bed. Yesterday, though, dog and I did take another walk into the desert, and I navigated my way to Sam's Club without GPS or human GPS. Of course, it's only a short distance away, but one of the intersections is tricky. Gas there was $3.03. The cheapest I've paid thus far, heading west. I didn't need to fill up, actually, but I just couldn't resist.

Well this evening ought to be exciting. In half an hour I'm going to Skype with my writing group back in Maine. I did a test Skype with the member whose house we meet at and you'd think we had just walked in from the stone age or something. I don't have anything to read tonight, which is not surprising. I haven't even been here a week! I was going to try doing some work today, but felt lousy enough that I just went back to bed.

Not sure what tomorrow will bring, but I hope I start feeling better so i can get out and have more adventures.

For those interested, bright and sunny, and in the mid-50s, but it's always bright and sunny here. :)

Up Late

2011-11-07T02:36:00.000-05:00

It was another fine day in NM, the air refreshing, the sky and mtns beautiful. I awoke with less immediate sinus pain, but the infection is on going, which is probably the reason I'm not asleep yet. That, or my body has adapted to the time and has decided to go back to old habits. It's almost 12:30 a.m. here.

Spent much of the morning with friends having coffee at a local coffee joint, enjoying great conversation and coffe that is roasted on the premisis. Upon returning home, discovered the beast had peed on the floor again, but thankfully on tile this time. Spoke with MelBob back in Maine and it sounds like the weather has been pleasant there. Also ordered a case for the iPhone (I am single-handedly trying to jumpstart the economy) and had an awful GF frozen pizza for dinner. The stores here don't seem to carry Against the Grain products. We'd stopped in an alternative sort of market after coffee, and lest you think they don't carry products from the east here (Against the Grain is based in Vermont), they had a lot of canned Bar Harbor seafood products, clam chowder and the like.

The gas may be cheaper here (selling for $3.15 at the corner station) but I'm thinking it's more than made up for with the price of groceries and the over 7% tax, unless you are a major commuter.

Maybe I can sleep now?

Settling

2011-11-05T19:07:00.000-04:00

Woke up with sinus nastiness, so trip to the market was postponed. It's kinda cool to think it runs throughout the winter. The sinus stuff started while I was staying in hotels, and the arid air here is not helping, and the heat coming on so often was making it tres worse. So friend D. came over to help me figure out the thermostat, and I think we have improvement in yhat area. He also helped me figure out the oven, which is a gas oven. All my life, growing up, living in apartments and in the cabin, I have always had an electric range, so there is a little bit of a learning curve. Later, when my headache subsided some, friend C. acted as my human GPS to WallyWorld so I could pick up some things like a humidifier, tissues, drying rack, etc. I feel like I'm moving in. Fortunately these are things that'll be no harm to have back home, as well.

We also made a stop at PetSmart to get a new ID tag for Mr. Dog that would include my new cell phone #. If he gets lost and found, and the finder tries to call my landline back home, they'll find it's offline. If I move out here, I'll find out about getting him chipped. He was extremely concerned when I removed his collar and started fiddling with his tags. Too many stressors happening to His Highness of late, evidence of which was pee left on the carpet while I was gone. Hopefully his anxiety will simmer down--he has to relax because I'm not going to cart him around everywhere with me.

Finally getting more stuff sorted. I found a place for the printer and got the laptop out and plugged in. Sent the audio guy photos of maps of my world as requested. Probably by the time I've got stuff set up to my liking, it will be time to pack up and leave. Probably the next trick up my sleeve will be recording all my receipts for travel, and other expenses. That'll be a good thing to do. Found HGTV channel, and Ghost Adventures on the Travel channel (of all places), and was very happy to find Fringe on Fox!

Weather is slightly blustery. We had some splotches of rain this morning. For a while I sat on the back patio where the sun shone and the walls buffered the wind, and talked on the phone with my mom. It was quite pleasant, and extremely noticeable how the temperature dropped when the sun passed behind a wisp of cloud.

Tomorrow's only plan is coffee with C. and D. I've been sleeping well at night, but still tired, with the stupid sinuses not helping, so it's probably good I'm not trying to go gangbusters wild and crazy.

Ensconced in NM

2011-11-04T01:08:00.000-04:00

In the irony department, it was warmer in the northeast today than it was here. But, the quality of sunshine is unparalleled, and even here in the city, I can see a sky of stars and the moon from the back "yard". Mr. Dog, who was so travel-weary, livened right up when we got to the house. Then found a nice spot on the tile floor where he lay in the sun where it came through the window.

Got a bite out to eat with my friends, they directing me where to drive in hopes of some of it sticking so I can learn my way around. And with much misgiving, I am now the owner of an iPhone, which will work here as well as in Maine. I can't see installing a land line here for fewer than three months. It works just like my iPad, which is why I chose it over some other phone.

Meanwhile, I've been working on unpacking, seeing what I've got and what I don't so I have an idea of what groceries to pick up. Also trying to acquaint myself with the house. I like having a garage. Wish I had one in Maine.

I need to do some work, too. The narrator of the audio books has requested a map of the realm, so to speak. Somehow it's supposed to give her an idea of what dialects/accents to use. Soooo, I have to see if I brought any maps with me, and redraw so things are in the right spots, then photograph it because I opted to bring the laser printer and not the ink jet which has a scanner. Figures, after all my consideration over which one to bring.

Caught up on watching Once Upon a Time, and like it very much. I haven't turned on the TV yet to become glued to cable, which I should probably avoid. After all my expenses--things bought for the trip, the traveling, the phone--I should probably really get to work so I can pay for all these things. My credit card bill may give me heart failure.

Still in the Ever Gloom

2011-10-29T13:21:00.000-04:00

I'm still at my folks' house. It's a 1958 ranch style house, with big picture windows that look out over a golf course, and the lake beyond. Actually, the trees have grown up so much since we moved here in the early 1970s that the lake view is pretty much obscured. It is cold out, and the sky is full of the leaden gloom that I normally associate with being here. Usually it's the result of being close enough to get clouds off Lake Ontario, but today its from the nor'easter that is supposed to dump on points east. Golfers are doggedly playing up the fairway, as they have always done when the course is not completely covered with snow. If you have seasonal depression, I do not recommend living in central NY, or anywhere near the Great Lakes.

I decided to linger the extra day because Dog decided to demolish my elbow. He lunged on his leash at something last night at a very bad angle. That, and I'm headachy, and the weather will be better tomorrow. Tomorrow I expect to get as far as just west of Dayton, OH. Wish me luck and that the elbow holds up. If I get to Cruces, I know someone who can help me with it :)

Out of Maine, but Not Out of the Weather

2011-10-27T15:39:00.000-04:00

Yesterday evening I made it to my folks' house in central NY. Today we have been having snow showers. You would think it's November or something. It was nice to get a very full night of sleep after all the trouble I was having with drowsy driving (necessitating an overnight stay in Portland). Got to see my sister and go into town, watch the snow come down and mist rising from the lake. I think I'll relax here for another day and night, and hopefully the weather will have cleared out, but it's always iffy around the Great Lakes, and my route will take me to Buffalo and Ohio beyond. (Infinity and beyond?)

Dog is very happy to be here and see all his human family, esp. his grandma who gives him lots of treats!

Pulling It All Together

2011-10-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

Had an interesting sighting in my yard today--I had brought the dog out for watering, when something with enormous wings flapped out of the trees. It was a great blue heron. They are not unusual around here, just unusual in my yard. It alighted on the very tip-top of a tall spruce and looked a bit like the silouhette of a heron weather vane. I went inside to retrieve my camera, but naturally the bird was gone by the time I came out. I startled what may have been another heron (or perhaps the same one?) down my driveway. I didn't look quick enough to make an ID, but definitely a big bird.

Was just out for dog's final watering of the night, and as we paused in the back yard, it was completely still--no road or air traffic, no wind. The ocean waves sounded so close by (if they are actually that close by, then it's a good thing I have flood insurance). Could hear something moving in the woods. And then my boiler started venting and that's all I could hear.

In the category of not-so-great-sightings, I found a tick taking a stroll on my arm. Not a deer tick, I don't think--too big. It got flushed. Had a sudden invasion of house flies today, too.

In any case, I spent the day engaged in trip prep. I think the unpacking process will be full
of surprises because I have no idea what I'm tossing into bags and boxes and luggage. I am
finding that I may be able to get away without needing the cartop carrier. It would be one
less thing to fuss with. I would not consider it a waste of money because if ever I do move
permanently, I'll definitely need it. In the category of untimely annoyances, my phone has
been out all weekend. So I guess I get to use minutes on my cell phone to call Fairpoint.
Every so often this happens. I don't know if it's water getting into the lines or what, but I
tested the line from outside and it was dead there, too. I am still, however, getting
internet. Of the two, I prefer internet! As it is the weekend, there was not a thing I could
do about it.

As for the gluten experiment, well, it's hard to say for sure, but it may be that my
intestines have been unhappy with it, despite the small amount I've been ingesting. Or, it
could be stress. Last night a friend gave me Gin Gin for the trip, and I'll have probiotics
with me as well.

Tomorrow, a run to the post office, final packing, some cleaning, and out to dinner at the
steak place (so long as my friend's cold does not prevent her from going. Actually, if it
does, I may take myself anyway).

Toyed with the idea of not taking a printer with me, but decided it really wasn't an option. I
could buy one there for cheap, but then what would I do with it? I've already got two and no space.

Oh well. Until we meet again.

Whumnf!!

2011-10-22T15:52:00.000-04:00

As predicted, I think I've undone all the good of yesterday's massage, mostly in the act of removing one of the backseats from the Honda (which will give me additional cargo space). What else has been accomplished? Well, last night I cleaned out--and cleaned--the freezer. I've never done so in all the time I've owned it. My mom may have gotten at it once or twice, but not me. The fridge, which also desperately needs cleaning, probably won't get done. Maybe when I return in early winter. Just hate the thought of leaving that disgusting mess sitting around, but of course that's what I do when I'm here anyway.

Started the work day by covering up outside furniture and doing some raking. Doesn't sound like a big deal, but it takes more effort than one might guess. Meanwhile, I had a load of laundry going. Then came the removal of the car seat. Naturally I had to vacuum part of the car again. And so here I sit with sweat rolling down my face. Tonight I have a party to attend and cornbread to make. Whew, not sure I coyld do this snowbird thing every year...

Well, getting the seat out (and into the house) was a big chunk of progress, and with the outside chores accomplished, I can focus on the very disgusting, messy interior. Pray for me.

Friday????

2011-10-21T13:45:00.001-04:00

In about a half hour, I'm going to head out with a key for my plumbing and heating guy, a bunch of mail, and a load of garbage, and then I'm going to get a massage. Back in February, a wonderful friend sent me a gift certificate to a local spa as part of a book launch gift. It is only now that I am getting to using it! I thought it would be good to have before I head out on the long drive. Unfortunately I'll probably undo any of the good by removing the back seat from my car, packing, and other heavy work over the weekend. Hard to think of stopping the works to get a massage, but I suppose it will be a good thing ultimately. Take off day is now looking like Tuesday.

Spoke with my agent about a few things. Was glad to hear book 4 has sold to the Germans. Sounds like my dad came through skin cancer surgery well yesterday. We won't know for sure till Tuesday if the melanoma has spread (lab is testing lymph nodes), but apparently the doctor sounded optimistic it had not.

::splat::

Birthday Survived, Mostly

2011-10-19T01:42:00.000-04:00

A wonderful friend led me around on a suspenseful afternoon of birthday goodness, from chocolate, to the spa, to champagne. We also fit in a walk in the park before the sun went down. I treated myself to a leather biker jacket. Maybe it's an image shakeup, maybe it's just middle age. Maybe I just like leather. Not saying more on that count! ;-)

Still way behind on trip prep. Today I was not really at home at all. Tomorrow I will have to work like a fiend if I want to get out of here next week. Plumber still MIA, so first thing tomorrow I've got to get on his case. Well, first thing for me, that is. Yes, once again I'm insomniating. I have good reason tonight: wicked acid indigestion. Chocolate, champagne, chili, and tea will do that to you.

Unexpected highlight today: getting to pet a couple kitties.

Bday Eve

2011-10-17T23:16:00.000-04:00

I was still a little stiff/achy from yesterday's misstep, but not bad. A friend and I had planned to do a walk or hike today. I didn't feel up to the hike I wanted to do, and as it turned out, she pulled her back in the morning, so we settled for a "rugged" walk around Jordan Pond. It was quite nice, but I was dragging at the end. After, we went into town for a late lunch. On the way home I started not feeling well, and that's pretty much where I'm at tonight--upset stomach and headache. Blah.

Hope blah goes away because tomorrow is the big day. Wish I could have my body of 20 yrs ago. Anyway, tomorrow is something of a mystery. A friend has some things planned, but its a surprise.

Between not feeling well and having all these appts and activities, I'm never going to get out of here. Ugh.

On another note, next week's castle looks like it's gonna be fun.

Mmmmmm....

2011-10-16T17:21:00.000-04:00

Chili simmering on the stove, and (GF) cornbread out of the oven. Smells good in here.

In the great search for a padlock key, I got caught up in cleaning off the top of my beureau, which required a step ladder. Missed the bottom step coming down (actually forgot I was two steps up) and saw all the possible outcomes pass before my eyes as I tried to stay upright, only to be rescued by the footboard of my bed. Took a jolt so my back, neck, and arms hurt. Also dropped a jewelry box made by my sister. I think it's cherrywood. Miraculously it acquired only a minor ding, and the contents were unscathed. Did I find the padlock key? Of course not. I found *a* padlock key, but not the right one. I had bought a new padlock, but it was too big for the spot. Grr. So I need a new one. Maybe I'll get one when I return to PrgatoryMart (because they double-charged me on an item.) All of this is really working against my efficiency. In any case, after my misstep, I resolved to put the step ladder away to avoid another incident. Man I could sure use that soaking tub....

And to think I'll be behind the wheel of an automobile for thousands of miles!! Look out world.

Saturday

2011-10-15T16:15:00.000-04:00

I am very RELIEVED. I had sent off a wedding package to a friend who is getting married next week and was patting myself on the back for getting this done very efficiently with all I'm trying to do to get out of here, only to realize I'd sent it to their old address. Panic! But she told me they hadn't put a forwarding address on the house, so maybe the package would be there. I've been anxious about it for a week and a half now. They went over there today and found it. I think the house is about an hour away from their current residence. It's a naturalistic turned bowl made from a maple tree burl by a craftswoman in Millenocket. I would have been sad if it had vanished for good.

Very windy today, taking down our peak foliage. During the night it disturbed my sleep. I had a dream within a dream where as I lay sleeping, a ghost sat on my hip. I tried to tell it to go away. It left my sleep further unsettled because it sort of felt real. Wind is aggravating my asthma, and my lungs are feeling a little overwhelmed by the introduction of another inhaler/med. I hope it just means it's opening up more lung capacity.

Today I'm trying to make the house look civilized as I have friends coming over for dinner
tomorrow, plus, I need to clean in prep for leaving. Just shoving boxes and things out of the way is challenging. Just want to run screaming!

EXTERMINATE

2011-10-13T23:02:00.000-04:00

Got my cranky on today. First of all, driving into town, the stupidest drivers of the season were out. If you are using your signal to turn left, don't turn right. Being in driver's ed is no excuse! That doesn't even begin to go into the other drivers on the road. For some reason, rain turns everyone into idiots. I still want a Dalek to mount on my hood to exterminate everyone in my way. Second of all, I was driving into town not because I wanted to, but because once again, one of my packages ended up at the post office there. At least I caught it in time, but I really hadn't wanted to make that trip. Third, my stinking computer got all glitchy while I was trying to work this afternoon. I lost work, and had to retype a section over three times. I am hoping that downloading updates has resolved the problem, but that in itself took a long time and I still haven't gotten the whole chapter typed in. Fourth, family BS. I'm beginning to think going to NM will not be far enough away...

Time is running out, and I don't feel any closer to prepared than I did a few weeks ago. Once I get this chapter typed in, that will be it for writing for the time being, except what I might happen to jot down in my journal.

The foliage did look beautiful on my drive to town. I'd rather be out walking or hiking to view it, but not so much in the rain, which we'll be having for the next couple days or more. Soon rain won't be an issue. Tomorrow dog has a manicure, and I have to hit the store/pharmacy. Saturday I have a phone appt with the audio book producer. I could go into town to occupy the town park if I wished. Sunday night, friends over for chili, and on and on and on... ::splat::

Shot

2011-10-11T17:45:00.000-04:00

I've been shot! Flu shot, that is. With so many stores offering the shots it was very easy to get one when I picked up a few groceries today. It's one of those loose ends I wanted to take care of before leaving. Just got off the phone with the plow guy, have appts for the dog and the car, and and and... Got more phone calls to make, and want an appt for a massage. (Pulled the problem kink in my neck/shoulder getting out of my chair today.)

Meanwhile, still doing battle with the novel when I can. Hope to have a troublesome chapter ready for writing group tomorrow.

Foliage is finally changing.

Whooped

2011-10-08T16:26:00.000-04:00

Have gotten to sleep easier the past couple nights. Hope it continues.

Yesterday I had an appt in next town over where, as a bonus, I got to play with a very sweet French bulldog. There was a bit of shopping, too, which meant I was in town for most of the afternoon. Among my purchases was an electrician's toolbag which will be used as a sort of portable office. In its pockets I can stuff pens and sizzors and postits, etc. I could fit a ream of paper in each side if I chose to. In other words, a desk without being a desk, for travel to NM.

Knowing that this weekend was going to be nice I planned to clean the car. I then made the decision, while I was in town yesterday, to run it through the car wash. Glad I did, because working on the interior today has about killed me! (That and a couple other chores.) I think I did a pretty good job considering it hasn't been touched for over a year or more. It may not look like new, but it's renewed. I actually mopped its floors with my Swiffer. At some point I'll be removing one of the back seats to create more luggage space, but NOT today!

I think tonight all I'll be up for is watching some Charlie's Angels eps. Did note in a preview that the new Charlie's Angels is doing a modern remake of "Angels in Chains". Apparently they had to set the story in Cuba to do it (the original being in the deep South).

Going Along

2011-10-06T22:19:00.000-04:00

Yes, still insomniating.

No, not packed yet. I've got a couple weeks... To that end, my cartop carrier arrived. Well, it did not arrive here. It went to town. I don't have a mailbox here and it was sent usps, not commercial carrier like I thought it would, so I had to go rescue the package from the post office that is not mine (my box is in another town, never mind that it is much closer). Confused? In any case, dog and I took an unexpected trip into town (somewhat challenging to get to the PO before closing with all the pokey pre-holiday tourists clogging the road).

Should have looked into getting an absentee ballot while I was there, but I am not the most coherent thinker these days. In any case, the cartop carrier is larger than I thought it would be. It's soft so I can sorta roll it up until I need it. I commented to the dog that the cabin is beginning to look like what it did just before the big book launch party back in Feb.--lots of cardboard boxes.

Actually turned up the heat today. It's just now at freezing outside. Makes me glad I'm going away.

Progress. Some, Anyway.

2011-10-05T23:28:00.000-04:00

But not on the insomnia front. ::rolls eyes::

This morning one of my orders for the trip arrived: two car organizers, one for the front of the passenger seat, and one for the back of it. What can I say? I'm a person who believes you can't have too many pockets. (which is frustrating when it comes to women's clothing.) Mowed for the last time this season, put stuff in the crawl space, and took other stuff out that will be going with me (among them, snow brushes). Dinged my leg good on the corner of a cinder block. Maybe house and yard are striking out at me knowing I'm going to be abandoning them.

Also managed to prepare a chapter for group tonight. Lots of little things to fix. It's been hard working with words being this tired. It's hard on an average day to sometimes find just the right words; a hundred times worse when so sleep deprived. It also dawned on me that, after a conversation with my audio guy about something in book 2, my protag would have an inkling about stuff in the WIP because of an historical document she read in the second book. It's inevitable that she'd make a connection, but I had forgotten she'd read said historical document. Now I have to go back and make sure she makes that connection in an appropriate place.

Came home to find out Steve Jobs passed away. Saw the news via my iPad, of course. Hope Apple remains innovative without him. All I can say is the iPad is the most enjoyable and useful gadget I've ever owned. On which I doth tap out this blog to thee.

WHY?

2011-10-05T02:09:00.000-04:00

Why am I still up at this hour? For about a month now I've had this insomnia. It's very annoying. Try to tell the brain to shut the fuck up, but it doesn't help.

Signed,
Cranky at 2:13 a.m.

My Chatty, Chatty Brain

2011-10-02T17:29:00.000-04:00

Absolutely, positively fighting to stay awake. Yes, you guessed it--brain was chattering away probably until 3 a.m. Because this is not getting better, I decided to adjust my second alarm (the first advises me to take thyroid med) not to an earlier time, which I'd just ignore, but to a later time that I'd more reasonably be able to force myself out of bed with, even if the urge was there to keep sleeping. By god I made myself get up, and by god I'm resisting the urge to nap. But it's really hard because not am I just tired from lack of sleep, but it's really, really gloomy out! The ironic thing is that my brain is chatty about all the things I need to do to get ready for my trip, but is in turn leaving me too exhausted to do those things. Darn chatty brain.

Well, in prep for the journey, one of my latest orders is a tailbone pillow for in the car. The Honda's seats are large and comfortable in that way, but a little hard, and I note that when I drive long distances it really hurts the tailbone. Hence, the pillow, which has a hole for the tailbone. Supposedly the angle of the pillow is also supposed to align the spine correctly, as well. I'm sure we'll find out if it works on the first leg of the journey, if not sooner. Also ordered sun screens that adhere right to the side windows. It may be cool and not so sunny here up north, but down south and west it will be, and the dog will have to sit in the car sometimes. I'll also take my little battery operated fans.

Wrote a teeny bit today, but keep nodding off. Watched Antiques Roadshow on the iPad and started nodding off. Do love the PBS app that allows me to view several PBS shows, like History Detectives and Secrets of the Dead. I am receiving the PBS signal on the TV, but not the broadcasts, if that makes any sense. Speaking of TV, I can't believe I forgot to watch Fringe on Friday!! So used to Friday TV being kind of worthless.

Finally, this week I am experimenting with reintroducing gluten into my diet in the form of sandwich bread (multi-grain sandwich thins). All else will remain GF for the time being. I daily record what I eat, how much sleep I'm getting, general health stuff, etc. so i can gauge changes. One thing I observed is how many headaches I get! It's been nearly six months since I went GF, and have done well with it except for some slip ups, mainly with ice cream. I thpught I'd better do this experiment before I hit the road... Especially since one of the things the GF diet seemed to help was intestinal in nature. Not sure if a week of sandwich thins will show much of anything, but I certainly do not show symptoms of celiac disease. (Noting that some people who have it are asymptomatic.)

Okay, thanks for helping me stay awake for a few moments...

Too Much Basil in my Belly

2011-09-30T21:30:00.000-04:00

I decided to hack up my basil plant and make pesto to put on quinoa spaghetti. Mr. Basil hadn't been looking great of late, so I decided it was time. It tasted fine, but my stomach is not at all happy. I'm sure it will calm down soon. I think tomorrow I'll dismantle the sungold tomato plant. Doesn't look like I'm going to get much more than green marbles off it.

Continued watching classic Chrlie's Angels tonight. Was quite amazed to see a very young Tom Selleck, sans mustache and pre-Magnum PI, guest star. When did Magnum air? The '80s? Half the fun of watching these older shows is seeing who guest starred on them! In this batch was also the famous"Angels in Chains" episode where they go undercover in a women's prison.

Managed a little book work today, but clearly still struggling with sleep issues, and also went and had a chat with my plumber, re: what to do about Heating and plumbing while I'm away, as in having it monitored. I guess there are all kinds of ways now in which this can be done, so he's going to consider some options for me. Clearly my attention is going to be divided as I prepare for this trip.

1:40 a.m.

2011-09-30T01:55:00.001-04:00

Naturally I can't get to sleep. Brain is like blah blah blah.... Some of it is book stuff, which is good, but it'd be nice for it to come during the day. Other stuff is about the impending journey. Hard not to think about all the things that must be done and obtained, and about the travel itself. The last time I took a journey of comparable length was when I drove out to the Rockies in 1991 to work. I made lots of tourist stops along the way and visited a friend near Iowa City. I was younger and more able to endure the long hours in the car (a 1990 Subaru Loyale wagon--nearly new, yes, but without air conditioning and with manual everything. I had that car for 10 years.) I don't particularly have the luxury of time if I want to claim my rental right on Nov. 1st. I am not sure what I'd stop and see, anyway. Not much in the way of grand natural features through the midwest. Plus, I'll have a dog with me this time. I plan to listen to some books on audio and hope that will help.

Today's big purchase toward the trip is a soft, Yakima rooftop luggage carrier. It's supposed to work even on roofs without racks. Fingers crossed.Didn't feel like forking out the cash for racks just now.

It's also interesting to have all these book thoughts and pretty soon it's going to be a log
jam if I don't get writing. Have been recording a good deal of it all in my writing journal.
Nacrescent eyes. Must remember to record that.... If I do so, will I be able to sleep?

Question Marks in the 21st Century

2011-09-28T21:16:00.000-04:00

Had a sort of automated cringe thing this morning thinking the units would come down the drive any moment, and then I remembered I was FREE!

Didn't sleep till sometime past 3:00 a.m., so I was not up early (and am dead tired tonight). Worked on readying my chapter for group tonight, which went over well with the members. There are always things to fix however, so will work on that tomorrow. Barely had energy for anything else today, not even going to the post office.

Finally got paid today. Yes, royalties finally filtered through my agents. I had seen a statement for the most recent book last week. Not surprisingly it hadn't earned out in six months, but it did well, as far as I can tell. I'm not good at comparing one thing with another. As far as the previous books go, book #1 outpaced the sequels in income. I can only guess that happened because people heard about the latest book and maybe wanted to start at the beginning(???). Maybe there will be more of an uptick in the sequels by the next period (???). Note the ???s. I have not looked at the statements to see which editions are selling, whether this is an ebook thing or what, but eventually I'll get there. Publishing is full of question marks, especially in the 21st century.

Destressing

2011-09-27T23:19:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I wanted to shout, "FREEDOM!" just like William Wallace at the end of Braveheart. In any case, units got home around dinnertime yesterday. I've been trying to clear my head and destress.

Destressing included a nice long walk. In certain places there were tourists around in quantities that were annoying, but overall it was fine. Maybe if I'd waited an hour before heading out? Then there were the bicyclists whizzing by at warp speed, making the dog go ballistic. Fortunately that was only at the end of the walk. Back in the day, my job was to slow those rocket machines down. The day was gorgeous, so it's no surprise there were other people out there taking advantage.

While I did a little work yesterday, I did none today, except possibly anything that might have stirred in the hindbrain while walking. Having some stomach upset tonight, so hope that does not in turn derail me.

Current dvd viewing is the classic Charlie's Angels. Yes, the show from the '70s. I was pre-teen when the show originally aired. It was about the only show where females were the leads and did exciting, adventurous stuff. Needless to say, it left an impression on my pre-teen self. I am only two eps into the first season, so it will be interesting to see how much I remember and what I think of it now that my pre-teen years are well behind.

Ta for now.

Well Fed

2011-09-25T23:26:00.000-04:00

It is the last night of the units, or should be providing someone does not sicken during the night or the like. Took them to a fancy restaurant tonight, and now they are in the process of sacking out on the floor. Hopefully they'll be promptly and well-rested on their way in the morning.

Today felt overly warm and muggy after the first cool weeks of September. Even wore shorts today. If I'm up to it, I'd like to do some walking or hiking tomorrow once the units are off. Just sort of to clear mind and body.

Maternal unit is trying to pressure me into spending unending days with them on my trip to NM. HAH!!!!!! As if I don't have a house and multudinous things to do before I abandon ship for the beginning of winter's onslaught. As if two weeks here hasn't been enough....

Yep, need that walk.

Chipmunk

2011-09-24T16:17:00.000-04:00

Sort of splatting today, probably with the help of the dim, gloomy weather. Units are cleaning and winterizing their travel trailer today. Tonight we dine out, I guess. Last night I marinated and grilled shrimp, grilled asparagus, and made red rice. Had moscato wine. Everyone seemed to like it fine. Leftover shrimp is in the freezer. May use it on quinoa pasta sometime. I will miss my grill in NM, but I'm sure I'll adapt. I want to learn how to make real enchiladas.

Sleep patterns are still pretty bad, but I don't think I can do much about it till the units leave and I can begin to restore my old routines.

Chipmunk is out on the chair doing his daily, massively annoying vocalizations. How can something so small make so much noise? May get the BB gun out yet! Not tnat I'd ever hit him.

Who Cooks for You

2011-09-22T22:46:00.000-04:00

A barred owl was just hooting, sounding like it was right in my yard. I hope it finds some squirrels or chipmunks to eat.....

Spoke several times with audiobook producer today re: pronunciations in book 2. I asked him how recording went on the first book, but they weren't finished. He had to rearrange his schedule to work in Tom Brokaw recording his latest book. Yes, I know where I stand in the scheme of the universe ;-).

Fortunately the units were otherwise preoccupied so I could deal with all that and not worry about interruptions, plus re-enter the two chapters I took to Group last night. Maternal unit and I went to pizza place tonight so I could indulge in GF pizza. ITomorrow is a question mark. Always an adventure....

Cat Plays Flute

2011-09-21T22:42:00.000-04:00

Still very exhausted as the brain brimmed with more story thoughts at bedtime last night. I think when the units leave I'm going to royally SPLAT. Have been having some interesting dreams, too. Like the cat that could play a Native American flute. This morning I saved a turtle that seemed to be dying without water at the edge of a busy walkway. I put it in a sink or tub of water and it started to do better, then shed its shell, turning into a pollywog- like creature, then growing back a new shell and being a turtle again. Since the turtle seems to be a totem animal for me, it's probably a significant dream of some sort.

Didn't see much of the units today. They came over late and then headed out to do some shopping, and then I was off to writing group via the ice cream place for a hot fudge sundae. I was the only one with anything to share tonight, and the group liked what they heard. Afterward I was reluctant to return home too soon because I knew the units would be cooking lobster, etc., so MelBob and I stopped at a pub for a drink and some food and talked about the difficulties of family and so forth. And here I sit after several rounds of Stupid Zombies.

And tomorrow is tomorrow. Should probably collect myself for bed.

Counting Days

2011-09-20T22:36:00.000-04:00

Counting the days. Units leave on Monday morning. I'm exhausted--haven't been able to sleep at reasonable times. Last night I was taken over with thoughts about the book, which I can't do anything about right now, besides it's stuff that would happen far into the book. So around 2 am I was jotting my thoughts down in my journal.

Plumber came over and tuned up the boiler for winter today. Need to set something up for while I'm away.

Meanwhile, still playing Stupid Zombies and watching various season premiers. Currently on, Body of Proof.

Drive to Drink

2011-09-18T22:03:00.000-04:00

Tonight I was driven to drinking by my mother, but that's what the scotch is for. I don't really drink it at any other time of the year, and I have it specifically for coping with the parental units. Also engaged in vacuuming therapy. May smudge the house with white sage tomorrow to exorcise it of all the negativity.

Today I was very tired from yesterday's walk (I guess), maybe too much fresh air or something. or fibromyalgia kicking me in the butt. In any case, today we went on a scenic train excursion. A very short section of rail since they haven't restored much yet--the price of railroad ties has sky-rocketed and this is a group of volunteer rail enthusiasts doing all this. I'm afraid the "scenic" part of the moniker was not quite there, either, unless you count the interesting backyards we passed. Still, the group is doing a good job, and the units enjoyed it. I them took them to the LL Bean outlet and tried to snooze in the car.

Listening to quiet music now (Deuter) and have some wash going. Have started making a list of all the lists (yes, a list of lists) I need to make prior to departure for NM. So much to do, so little time. My mom expects me to spend at least a week with them on my way down. As a result of this week past, it will be a resounding NO on that count. I would not have stayed a week in any case.

The gods preserve me this week....

Calmer

2011-09-17T22:18:00.000-04:00

I learned tonight that the day of parental leave-taking was misspoken last night. Visit will be only two weeks total, not three. Fortunately the wrath was not taken out on the units. They spent the day shopping and Mr. Dog and I went on a long,slow walk. Two weeks is still stressful, and there are underlying issues (it is family after all), but two weeks is a major improvement.

The walk was wonderful. This is the best time of year for walking and hiking, and normally I don't get to take advantage of it due to the parental visit. We sat by one of the ponds for a while, the surface shot with flashes of sun. A pair of dragonflies alighted on my pant leg. Three is a crowd! Just a beautiful day. Both dog and I are old and out of shape though. Hope we both sleep well tonight.

Angry Post

2011-09-16T22:25:00.000-04:00

Why do they do this to me? I was told my parents were coming for a "couple" weeks, which would mean only one more week. But no, I learned they will be here till the 29th. That is THREE fucking weeks. Am I so disrespected they don't even have the decency to tell me? Every year I am required to put my life on hold for this invasion and it really pisses me off. There may be some yelling tomorrow. Not to mention I should be trying to get ready for NM. It does not matter that I also need to earn a living. That is not important to them. Next year I'll leave for NM in September. (If not live there permanently.) I want to scream, cry, break something, maybe in that order, maybe not.

Poor Toes

2011-09-14T14:41:00.000-04:00

Basically I've been coping with the parental units, squeezing in a couple paragraphs at bedtime. This afternoon they've gone shopping. I am, as you may guess, cranky, and smashing my toes into a door frame did not help. Nothing broken or sprained, but there was a blood-curdling scream of pain that scared the dog.

This evening's reprieve is writing group. Fortunately I'm a couple chapters ahead of group so I don't have to feel pressured producing new stuff to bring, though producing new stuff would be a good thing.

And that's the extent of life. When the units visit, it all sort of boxes me in.

Still Haunted

2011-09-12T01:40:00.000-04:00

Came close to scanning, and then posting on FB, photos I had taken of, and from the World Trade Center in July 2001. I thought it might be a contrast to all the images of devastation. Now I've decided not to. There are so many images. They assault the mind. Even if the pictures are of before the devastation, of the neat views of NY Harbor from atop the south tower, I didn't want to inflict them on people who might be too sensitive. Wish I had taken more pictures, but who knew what was to come? I may scan the pictures for posterity and maybe post at another time, or never. I have no direct connection to the events 10 years ago, to the people or places, but the thought of having been up in one of those towers just two months before they came down still gives me shivers.

I think all of the documentation, video and stills, of 9/11, is what makes it so vivid and of vast scope for people who weren't there, why so many are haunted. Now and then through the years, I've had dreams/nightmares incorporating imagery of the towers. If I'm this affected by it, I can't imagine how it is for people intimately connected. We all process in our individual ways and at our own speeds.

Heh, and these pictures I took were with a film camera. Digital was not yet widely used in
2001. The world has changed much in 10 years.

In other news, grilled game hens for the parental units, with roasted veggies and rice on the side. They seemed to like it, but were very tired. Eating a game hen is a little like tackling a lobster--a bit of work. I'd have preferred to grill pork chops for them tonight, but as mentioned, I couldn't get chops. At any rate, I simmered the giblets and carcasses for stock. Maybe next week we'll have soup from it.