Winter 2013 December 31 Tuesday

23 degrees this morning.  

It was cold out there, didn't feel too cold until I came back from the gym (on the bicycle) and hit some wind going down the hill.  I usually wear a bandanna on my head, but I needed a hat this morning!  Actually, it really wasn't that bad and I was able to get my full exercise program completed.

Wonderful day today after the cold weather this morning.  We had some minor things done at our house and I went to the Apple Store (Aliene's phone developed ringing problems and they replaced the phone and I did some work on some computer programs while I was there.).  I have been working on some creative aspects of the programs such as keynote etc.

I am always pleased at the little things that happen that are so pleasing, an e-mail or call from a friend, something in the mail I was waiting for or, like the other day, I actually heard both the "Four Seasons" and "Canon in D" on XM radio in one trip!

I always am surprised when the realize the full capacity of iPads, iPods, iPhones etc.  I can actually listen to any specific song or music anytime I want to.  It is still nice when I hear a favorite song or music unexpectedly.  

As far as Resolutions, I really don't make them at New Year.  I may made some promises for improvement to myself at anytime, but I normally don't do it at this time of year.  I also never (unless requested) do "year in review" type stuff, because while I hope I learn from the past, I just normally don't have time to rethink the past.  Doesn't mean I don't note events or happenings and hope to learn from them. 

I will always remember 2013 as the year "the world without end, ended".  I knew it would happen sometime, too bad it happened in this way.  My first Mayor told me he thought of the City as a ship going down the river, people get on, people get off, but the ship keeps on going down the river.  

As far as another year gone by, I am beginning to fully realize the problem older people have in the common perception by many people of what older people can and can't do or what they are going to do.  I think everyone assumes I am going to die or retire shortly, or I don't have new ideas etc. or whatever.  I can understand some of the comments I have heard in the past. 

Winter 2013 December 30 Monday

30 degrees this morning (28 degrees now).  It really felt cold this morning, even for 30 degrees,l probably due to the wind.  Didn't help I forgot my keys (to ATC Fitness) and had to cycle back up the steep hill coming into the addition to get them!  (Only steep if you ride a bike!)

Read another story on design this morning, this time for noodles, among the more common tech type items!  I really have to wonder how design can be used to improve municipal services.  Design as oriented to making the experience easy to sue for the customer, not design as to make it attractive, although that could be part of it.  Interesting concept I'm researching it some more.

I am concentrating on watching what I eat and trying to increase my exercise.  I figure it is time to go for that last 10 lbs I need to lose!  (Probably 15 after the Christmas gorging!).  Basically, even then, my target weight is 10 lbs more than the "maximum" recommended for my height, but even when I was in my teens and early twenties I couldn't reach the "model" weight for my height.  The last time I weigh less than I weight now (currently I weight the least I have since 1989) I just couldn't maintain a weighty below my goal weight.  It has been two years since I lost weight (actually one year at my current weight) and it is well stabilized (for me this means a range of about 5 lbs), it is time to bear down and get down to my "model" weight.  I can decide then if I want to make it even more, but I need to reach the goal weight first.

It will also help train me for longer bike rides  I doubt if I will do the "ride with the summer" ride this year (probably 2015 or 2016 at the latest).  I may try the "ride across Tennessee" bike ride this year if I don't have any conflicts, but I need to develop my ability to ride further.  I ride my bike almost every day, but it is a relatively short distance and doesn't prepare me for a long ride.

Getting new eye-glasses today. My current ones are four years old.  I decided to change to provide myself with a backup pair.  The ophthalmologist advised I didn't really need a new prescription, but I wanted a pair of glasses I could wear for reading on the stationary bike.  I am going to try to ride my bike longer in the afternoon and maybe even take a second walk.

Current reading "The Catcher in the Rye" for my book discussion class.

Picked up new eye glasses, really feel good.

Winter 2013 December 29 Sunday

43 degrees this morning, misty and foggy.

Recovering from Christmas trip.  Overall a really nice trip, hard to believe it is over and Christmas 2013 is now just a memory.

One thing we noticed is how it stays dark in the morning in OKC so long (dawn is about an hour earlier here, and of course sunset is also an hour earlier.)  Not sure which I prefer.

One thing I really miss when traveling is my exercise routine.  I really enjoy it and it seems to start the day well.  I usually walk several miles, cycle to the ATC Fitness Center, ride the stationary bike (and read the morning newspapers) for 37 minutes, than shower etc., come home and take a nap before I eat breakfast.

We keep our Christmas decorations up until early January.  (Most of our decorations are inside).  Aliene does a lot of work on marking each season, especially Christmas.  She also has a variety of plants that live on the window sills during the day and on the table at night.

Read a story on "time" this morning in the NYT, he used a prisoner to illustrate how time starts to narrow your options, probably the worst thing about time passing.  The Prisoner (and I believe the writer) concluded you couldn't do anything about time passing, but you could be the best possible prisoner or other) that you could.

Starting to read "Catcher in the Rye" for my "book discussion" group.  I'm really not sure if I have ever actually read it before, although I"m sure I did when I was a kid.  I read almost all American writers and many international writers (who wrote in English or translated), i read everything I could get my hands on.  

Strangely enough, I don't read that much fiction anymore.  In the early to mid 90's, I even quit reading fiction completely, since I decided it was a waste of time.  I obviously seen changed my opinions and read fiction, but still not like I used to, and I probably quit reading about 50% of what fiction I start by the first chapter, usually because it is just a canned plot the author keeps just chaining the characters in, or it is just plan boring.

I will be glad to get back on my diet and exercise.  I'm not even going to weigh myself for a week, I would probably get discouraged! I have decided my fist step is to make sure i update "My Fitness Pal" when I eat anything.  I think the first step is to be aware of what you are doing.

Reading about advancements in technology in "Wired" Magazine and the possible new technology.  It is amazing.  Several articles in particular hit a chord, the importance of "design" in everything, but especially technology.  I was thinking that could apply to government programs, how residents perceive and interact with the programs. 

Winter 2013 December 28 Saturday

36 degrees this morning, warming up fast

 I will need to get used to saying 2014, it definitely will be a year I remember for whatever reason.  Currently at the OKC airport, returning to Memphis via Houston (kind of like riding on a slow freighter, it is a 6 hour trip.  However, I want to support Southwest and they were cheaper. 

Reasonably sparse today, although I assume it is busy for a Saturday.  Certainly cheaper on  a Saturday.  Delta used to have a nice non-stop on the Memphis/OKC route, but like everything else Delta does, customer service is secondary to making the maximum revenues..  (On the way up, we went through Houston, but it was the same plane and merely stopped for a few minutes.  The entire flight was around 3 1/2 hours, it will be 6 1/2 today.

Later:

Landed in Houston, ate at “Buffalo Wings” at the airport.  First time ever ate there, it was good.  

3 hour layover at Houston Airport.  Layovers (like the flights themselves) seem to develop this sense of timelessness, when time seems to take a vacation and not press itself on you.  You don’t feel like you should be doing something else since that is all I can do.  I read, worked on the computer and even played some computer bridge.

Overall good flight home, as is normally the case with Southwest Air.  Ate at Bob Evans and went home, extremely tired.  It is nice to be home.

Winter 2013 December 27 2013 Friday

34 degrees this morning.  Woke up early this morning.

Daddy passed away 19 years ago today.  It is hard to believe it has been that long.  I can have a picture in my mind of when Mama called and advised me he had died.  I guess it wasn't necessarily unexpected,, but it was.  I guess like all parents, my feelings about him are still mixed.  Certainly many things about him to admire, including his honesty, his work ethic and certainly his overcoming his upbringing in an orphanage that today wold probably be considered abusive in a lot of ways.  I am still amazed at how a man who grew up in an orphanage who only saw his sister rarely (in the girls side of the orphanage) etc. ended up with seven children and basically making a go of it and saving money in the process.  I think I still grieve somewhat about ambitions both Mama and he had that they never achieved.  i think going through their papers is kind of an "Our Town" type experience.  Speaking of loss, it is probably just starting to really hit me as to what happened in Lakeland.  Such is life.

The much anticipated Christmas (anticipated no so much for Christmas, as for the family gatherings etc. ) are almost over.  New Year is the next event, a time I normally assess (or rei-assess as it may be) my life and where I am or want to be or wish I was. 

Time becomes even more precious somehow even through theoretically I have a lot more free time now. It is hard not to hate the Spoiled Brat Politician, my Judas neighbor who used me for his own purpose and the other two toadies, but I just feel a coldness, really no anger.  What is, is.  

Later....

Enjoyable day today, took Kali and Katherine to the lake (it was a little cool, but nice just to look around for awhile and do something different).  Also, very few people were out there, so it was nice.  

(Some areas in shade were still icy).  It was fun doing something different like that, they are a lot of fun.  Had lunch with Angela and then with Kali and Katherine.  I feel like I've gained 10 pounds this week from reduced exercise and increased eating!  

Last day of "Christmas vacation" such as it is.  Actually, in spite of the unexpected, it has been good.  

Somehow, Katherine became quite a shopper.  She gets this glazed look in her eyes as she determinedly heads for all the stores she wants to look in and quickly makes decisions on what she wants.  It is amazing to me an 11 year old would show such determination and focus.

Winter 2013 December 26 Thursday

25 degrees this morning, wind mede it seem cold.

Breakfast (included lox, which I love, but rarely eat due to the salt content and calories).  A minor bit of after Christmas shopping. Not a large crowd out shopping.

I have put off some things (like many years) until "after the holidays" and the holidays are almost over.  However, in my case I probably have mentally put off some very important decisions until after March 1 depending on what has happened.

Enjoyable day with Kali and Katherine, they are fun to be around.  I am amazed at how fast they are growing up and developing their own independent personalities, more power to them.

Winter 2013 December 25 Wednesday

30 degrees this morning.

Christmas Day.  

Driving a car without SiriusXM raised my appreciation for XM (and for iPods and iPads) and increased my disgust about commercial radio.  Couldn't find Christmas music but on one channel and the evening version was that creature "Delia' (I may have the name spelled wrong) who for some reason has been hanging around commercial  radio for years as some kind of "therapist".  I automatically turn the channel when I hear her.  The only thing worse is sports radio talk/call shows.

A lot worse things have happened and could happen than minor inconveniences of having to turn a radio channel and shut off the radio and plug in an iPad or iPhone I realize.  I am just amazed that commercial  radio stays in business at all with their low quality of programming.  I wonder if people really listen or are the  surveys on listeners wrong?  On the other hand, if people really enjoy it, more power to them.  

Found a channel on tv with a video of  fireplace burring and playing traditional Christmas/holiday music.  It is really nice to have traditional Christmas music available. 

Winter 2013 December 24 Tuesday

25 degrees.  Christmas Eve day.

Traditionally, we spend Christmas Eve with Aliene and my side of the family. That is always fun.  This year it was a little subdued since Aliene's daughter was in the hospital.  

Christmas Eve/Day is always a day that always surprises me when almost everything shuts down.  It is the one day of the year that almost everyone takes a rest. 

The next day Aliene and I just take it easy.  Unless we visit my sister, this is one day we just take it easy and don't really plan anything, or at least if we plan anything it may be a mindless trip, or a trip just to visit my sister and her husband and daughter.  Regardless, it is a day to relax.

It seems that Christmas Eve and Christmas Day is a day of relaxing for almost everyone, between the mindless flurry of shopping before Christmas and after Christmas.  

Usually we stay at the Waterford Hotel and eat the "Christmas Lunch" the next day.  This year the Waterford didn't have their regular Christmas dinner, so we switched to the Skrvin Hotel, which has a Christmas Dinner. 

Winter 2013 December 23 Monday

32 degrees.

Heading ot OKC for Christmas.  Stayed at the Marriott Courtyards outside of Memphis airport.  Nice enough.

Airport was an easy process.  The server at the Airport Starbucks had a real attitude, something which surprised me, actually has never happened before at a Starbucks.  Got coffee, water in the “cooler” was actually warm, had to ask for cold water and you would have thought I committed a crime.

Traveled Southwest Airlines for the first time ever out of Memphis, and it was nice.  One of the few times we have had a SWA attendant who was a you know what (surly is a little too much, but not your typical courteous  SWA attendent.)  Also, the wifi and free tv didn’t work or at least not on my computer or iPad.

Cold in OKC. Trees were covered in ice as was many cars. Picked up rental cars and ate at Classen Grill, then did family events.  Aliene learned (while at a stop on route) that her daughter was in the hospital.

Late evening meal at On the Border with Aliene, Angela, Kali and Katherine.

Overall an enjoyable day, but wish I could have listend to Christmas music more.  For some reason, none of the radio stations carried any holiday music and for some reason the rental car doesn’t have Sirus XM.  Of course, that is really the least of my worries!

Winter 2013 December 22 Sunday

53 degrees this morning.

Heavy rain last night, no damage that I could see.

The lights blinked this morning for just a second (enough to start the clocks blinking) and then I found we didn't have any internet or cable tv.  One of the times I am glad I maintain a backup DSL accent, which is working fine.  We depend a lot on cable/internet electricity!  The DSL, with the  home phone, is almost free, so it has been worth it, although it has created it's own problems at times.  And it has been extremely hard to get ATT to come out if there is a problem.

Comcast can be just as bad, but at least they have a local office.

Went to a "Christmas Party" over the weekend.  One of the events was a 'dirty Santa" gift exchange.  I ended up with a very nice Christmas Tree ornament.  I am very pleased with it, not because it is a nice looking ornament, which it is, but that every time I see it I will think of the friends and the occasion, but especially the friends involved. I have always thought I should give a nice "disposable gift" (something to eat, flowers etc.), but now I think if I had gotten that i wouldn't have the Christmas tree ornament  for years to remind me of the good times here and my friends.  One of those small, but big, important happenings that define your life.  Sometimes it can just be a look or a comment.  

Winter is here, which isn't all bad, because it means the days will start getting longer until Spring is here! 

Winter 2013 December 20 Saturday

68 degrees, cloudy, rain coming in.  First day of Winter, 2013!

Sitting in Starbucks, working on computer and watching the world go by. There is a certain timelessness about sitting and Starbucks.  I especially enjoy it when I have the time to enjoy it, if that makes any sense.  I don't like drive-thrus anyway (nor drive-inns for that matter).   I don't like to eat in the car (or drink coffee for that matter, unless I'm on a long trip and I can't see any purpose in picking up something and eating it at home, unless maybe a pizza or ice cream.  A few years ago, I was taking a night class and it was convenient to stop by Starbucks and pick up some coffee on my way to class. I think I like the sense of the "experience", which includes sitting in Starbucks.  

All I drink is regular coffee (well, the strongest possible) anyway, with an occasional iced coffee when it is too hot to drink hot coffee (which is almost never), although sometimes I drink iced coffee just for the taste and the experience.  Actually I try not to drive after drinking two "Vente" iced coffees, because of the caffeine buzz, about the only time I feel coffee affects me.  I can literally drink several cups of coffee and then go to sleep. 

I frequently say "coffee is my only vice" and I"m not even sure it is a vice, except excess is a vice.  My biggest coffee in drinking coffee is finding a decent cup of coffee.  Starbucks is always good, as is Steak n Shake,  McDonalds is good as long as it is fresh and hot. It is really frustrating in a restaurant where you may pay $3.00 for a cup of coffee and they try to give you cold and old coffee (J Alexanders is the worst), or try to pawn off instant coffee on you (TGI Fridays, I just don't bother to order coffee there anymore) or just don't know how to make it apparently (On the Border).  I should start a "Hall of Fame" and a "Hall of Shame" for hot coffee, although there are many in the middle. 

Life continues in the "every day is a Saturday except for Sunday" mode, except that is not exactly true, as I am keeping relatively busy keeping up with searching for another position etc., as well as catching up on projects that got behind.  I am trying to keep my same routine, and after Christmas (well, may after New Years), I am going to set regular "office hours", so I don't get lazy.  I am already feeling the "leisure time spin" where I occasionally have some inept moments when I try to do choose between all of the projects I could be working on, books to be read etc.  On the job, it is easy to set priorities, but while "on the beach", there really are not priorities for daily use of time, although there is a significant overall priority.  

Maybe Starbucks is the sense of shared experience.  I am surprised at how many job interviews I hear in Starbucks.  Clouds are still going overhead, cars are stacking up in the parking lot at Starbucks.

Fall 2013 December 20 Friday

61 degrees this morning, felt colder, probably due to wind and cloud cover. The roofers are already working on the house next door.  Almost every house in our subdivision has had a new roof except ours.  Not quite sure how our roof escaped the storm, although it probably is the right people haven't checked it out!  

Last full day of Fall 2013.  I have to admit, I am ready for 2014, and even Winter to begin, since it means the Spring and Summer is only closer.  I will see some major changes in my life in 2014 (or that itself will be a  major change!). The shortest day of the year tomorrow (I believe Winter actually starts at 5:06 p.m. or something like that, but as far as I'm concerned, it is the first day of Winter.  

Didn't bicycle this morning, just too windy and  I was concerned abut it raining.  

In the late 80's, I started collecting ti-shirts (either "event" t-shirts or promotional t-shirts, with the thought then I walked and exercised I would wear them.  I probably have over 300 such t-shirts now (sometime I will have to count them), including he ones I put away as way too big, although I like large t-shirts.  

Of course, now I wear only "athletic", "wicking" special t-shirts/jerseys etc. when I exercise!  Which means I have all the t-shirts for daily wear, so I have a lot t-shirts that never see the light of day.  Like my books, I have an extremely hard time "weeding" my t shirts, especially the "event" t-shirts and even the promotional  t-shirts to a degree.  I like the idea of giving them to someone who can and will use them (the t shirts) and read the books!  

Now that I have time (or at least expect to have time, it hasn't happened yet), to read all of those books "when I get time", I will see which ones I actually need to keep!

When I was about in the third grade, I was bored to death (no TV, computers etc) and I started reading my brothers and sisters high school literature books.  I started collecting them years ago and finally have all of them I believe.  I still have a lot of nostolgia about them.  "Alas Babylon", I didn't understand until I read it years later and I was scared every time I read "The Tale-Tell Heart" and "The Hitchhiker" etc. I am amazed at how the meaning of the stories changed as I aged and I looked at them from a different perspective of both age and experience.  For the most part, I think I did understand "The Most Dangerous Game", "To Build a Fire", "Our Town", "The Road Not Taken" etc. I wonder how they shaped my life and thinking.

The last day of Fall 2013 "and how the time does pass". 

Fall 2013 December 19 Thursday

45 degrees this morning.  

Time seemed to get away from me this morning.  I am trying to maintain my normal routine in the morning (basically be done with reading paper, exercise, eating breakfast, my morning nap, reviewing e-mail and writing this journal) by 7:30 a.m.  I'm letting something slip someplace!  I don't like the "activities expand to fill the time available" type of feeling.  

Another beautiful day today.  

Finished "And the Mountain Echos".  I refrained from noting any more quotes from the book, although it had some excellent thoughts and quotes.  I had a little problem following it at times, but it was really an excellent book.  

I am trying to increase by stamina on riding the bicycle to eventually ride some long distances.  While I ride my bike almost daily, it is a short "commuting" ride and I need to ride my bicycle more to build up to longer rides.  My bicycle ride won't be near as safe due to the failure of the City to "accept" a million dollar grant for a bicycle/ped trail down Davis Plantation (from Highway 64 to I-40 bridge).  That is a very dangerous area for both bicyclists and walkers.  The "Mayor to Nowhere" called it a "trail to nowhere", ignoring the fact that this road is a real danger to walkers, bicyclists and motorists and serves (probably) about 3,000 residents and this would not only provide healthy living but also access for employment and shopping for people in this area.  Same with not spending $70,000 to correct hazards at the City Hall Park. What is it worth to avoid injury to children? There won't be  lot of children  to attend the new school if such thinking continues!  

Christmas is less than a week away.  This has obviously been a strange holiday season. I always enjoy Christmas and holiday music and never seem to spend the time I plan to listening to it.   I am looking forward to 2014. 

Fall 2013 December 18 Wednesday

37 degrees this morning.  Felt warmer than that, maybe just used to the cold weather.

Another quote from "And the Mountain Echoed":  "That is what aging is, she thinks as she follows Isabelle into the store, those random unkind moments when you least expect them"  (This is a point when she looks into a store windows and realizes how old she looks).  Kind of like when I look in a mirror and wonder what my father is doing here. 

Another favorite quote of mine is also from a fiction book, I believe by Jeff Deaver (I'll have to check on that).  It is a point when a older woman who is a spy is caught.  She thinks to herself that this is the point that her life, which she enjoyed, will never be the same again.  I can think of several recent points like that.  (Including the "spy" angle, bur from the other side!).  Probably "moment" that you realize everything is changed and its will never be the same  hit Aliene worse then it did me.

I guess life is composed of moments like that, when a momental change is occurring and you may  or may not be aware of the gravity of it.  On the other hand, maybe life doesn't have enough of those moments, maybe that is why time passes and we suddenly realized the journey is going faster than we want or realize.  

Apple Store today.  Trying to get control of my e-mail, calendar and contacts (also reminders) while I can take a breath and do something with it.  When I look at my e-mail and see 29,000 e-mails I need to do something to get organized!  

Looks like it will be another beautiful day today, will be in the mid-fifities and sunny.  About as good as it gets this time of year.

Fall 2013 December 17 Tuesday

45 degrees this morning.  Lengthened my bicycle ride a little.

Reading "And the Mountains Echoed", as noted in the last post. 

I rarely have a quote leap out at me as if it was intended for me to read.  That one, really hit home.  Actually the entire book (except for the first part, which I still don't understand), is really speaking to me.

In one chapter, the narrator reviews (from an old age) his life.  What struck me was how the years can pass without any  real realization, even when major events come and go, the time still passes.  In the case of the narrator, he was an assistant (perhaps a servant?).  The years passed and he started as a young man and was old (self described) when the man he worked for died.  Even their relationship was fascinating to read about.

The quote described his feelings after the person he worked for died and he was (i guess you would say) "retired".  He inherited everything , so it appears he was not required to work.

It got me thinking, six years ago, I noted that "in ten years I will be 70".  Obvious, but there is still the journey, which is going to happen regardless of what I do.  I have been here for 12 years, my last job for 13 years (I left to take this job). That is 25 years that has passed in  a flash, yet, my Dad and Mom both passed away during that time, my 11 year old daughter became an adult, married and now has two granddaughters (the oldest of whom is now a teenager), I met and married Aliene, Aliene's mother, who was a lively alert person when I met Aliene, gradually failed and passed on,  Aliene's grandchildren grew from the small children at our wedding to adults etc.  

I'm not sure where this is all going, except this is a pivotable time of my life when any decision I make will reverberate for literally the rest of our lives.  So many times, the entire structure of our lives are based on chance, which I guess is obvious, but when it is happening it is not so obvious.

It will be very difficult to leave Lakeland if it comes to that.  Not the City itself, I expect the changes will destroy the true Lakeland that I love, but still it will be difficult to leave friends and routines we have grown accustomed to.

Christmas Eve is a week away.  Hopefully the weather has reverted to the "regular" weather type.  So far, the weather looks like it should be good.

December 16, 2013: Quote from "And the Mountains Echoed"

"Now I was free to do as I wished, but I found the freedom illusory, for what I wished for had been taken from me. They say, Find a purpose in life and live it.  But, sometimes, it is only after you have lived that you recognize your life had a purpose, and likely one you never had in mind".

Fall 2013 December 16 Monday

32 degrees this morning.  I thought it would be warmer, so I was a little surprised, but it is supposed to warn up later.

Sometimes there is a sense of unreality as another day starts.  Years of "making things happen" are suddenly changed to "waiting for something to happen", at least as far as major life changes go.  I can only go so far and then I have to wait for a decision by someone else.  However, meanwhile, I do have plenty to do, catching up on organizing etc.

I still have items from my Mother to review and it has been 16 years since she passed on.  However, that isn't a matter of procrastation as much as just having to face the emotion reaction I get from seeing my mother (and some degree my dad) from the perspective of them as young people full of dreams and knowing how it ended.   Somewhat of an "Our Town" reaction.  Not that  my Mother and Dad didn't have an enjoyable full life, but I don't think it is what the envisioned when they were in the 20's, 30's, 40's, or even 50's.  Of course, who am i to judge?  When I went to visit them after they retired in AZ, I always had a good conversation with them, perhaps until the old parent/child relationship returned.  I think it is seeing them age that bothers me as much as anything when I look at their papers from their youth.   Maybe it is best to not look at the papers, just give them to my brothers and sisters, but then I would miss knowing about a major part of my heritage.  Dilemmas in the middle of life.  

Reading Khaleo Hosseini  "And the Mountains Echoed".  At first i had a hard time getting into it and I almost quit, but now i am really into it.  I really enjoyed the  "Kite Runner", in fact it helped me get through skin cancer surgery, but i never did get into the second book at all and quit reading it.    

Because of time limitations, I have gotten a lot more selective in what I read (and watch or listen or whatever).  I have pretty much quit reading the "boiler plate" fiction and are basically the same plot.   I have too many "things to do" hanging over me to waste time reading something that isn't meaningful or even entertaining.  (I make an exception for Lee Child and Jack Reacher)

My Dad started reading light reading when he was in his (I believe) early fifties.  I discussed it with my Mom a little and both of us were puzzled, but we both figured if he enjoyed them, he deserved it.  He had worked hard and maybe found something that he enjoyed.  I owe my love of classical music to my Dad, one of my memories is him listening to "Music from the Masters" on WIBW redo on Sunday afternoons, and later his record collection.  

Oddly enough, I used to hate Country Music.  In fact, I joke (only partly) that the reason I moved to Oklahoma City (when I took the City Manager position at Harrah) was because the only radio station in town where I was played ply Country Music.  There was a restaurant next to City Hall called "Maggies Kitchen" and a cafe about a block away called "Country Kitchen".  I would take a break and get some coffee and they were always playing Country Music, so I gradually developed a liking for Country Music that developed into a deep appreciation for most Country Music.  Of course, I always liked fiddle music of any type, so maybe I just had to experience some Country Music to really enjoy it.  I remember going to a meeting (it was the last snow of the winter) and turned to a Country Music station and realized I really liked it.  I've liked it (for the most part) ever since.  

Fall 2013 December 15, 2013 Sunday

34 degrees.  Caught me by surprise, I thought it was going to be warmer.  

Now that "every day is a Saturday except for Sunday", I continually have this nagging feeling I used to get on three day weekends or vacations, the feeling like I need to be working on something for work.  There actually was always a project I could be working on and there actually is now, but it is different.  Perhaps the difference is that the projects are now somewhat internal to my life whereas previously a majority of the projects were external.  I have been blessed that I have kept busy the past two weeks.  I still haven't had time to catch up on my reading or weeding out stuff and organizing items (and projects), but maybe that time is coming. 

Actually, I hope the time never comes when I feel I have time to fill.  

i am puzzled by all of the "apps" and e-mails offering to "help me decide which organization to donate money too" ?  The same with all the stores that ask you to "give a dollar"  (or whatever) for some cause they want to donate to?  They used to ask and get huffy when I told them no, I made my own decisions on giving to charity or whatever.  Apparently they got feedback on that because now it is more diplomatic in most cases now.    We just decided, no matter what, we were going to "just say no" regardless of the charity or event (with a possible except for a local situation or project).  If people want to donate, fine, but we were going to make our own donations directly to the organization or person.  

Actually, we give few donations.  Some years ago, I got a call from a group that I won't name.  I found out the "fundraisers" got 80% of the donations!   While most charitable organizations do a lot better than that, a high percentage of donations frequently goes to donations or to pay for getting more donations, which again is ok if that is what someone wants to donate too.   We decided, with some exceptions,  we are going to "tip" extra to the lower paid people who are working and may need the extra help.  We have and we feel good about it.  We don't give a lot extra, just an extra dollar or two (more when it is a continuous relationship and someone we deal with all the timeI), but we hope it helps.  Just a personal decision everyone has to make.

One good thing about the time off the past several weeks, I do keep up with my newspapers and my magazines (well, I kind of keep up with the magazines, but I usually read it before I get the next one.  I have a hard and fast rule I throw away the current magazine when I get the new one regardless of whether I have read it or not.

If I can ever get Evernote to work right, it will also make my "story clipping' much easier.  Currently, I either tear it out of the paper or, mor likely, go to the on-line version of the newspaper and save it.  Right now I save it either on the site or as a pdf, but it would be so nice to just save it to Evernote and then be able to access it at any time.  Evernote says you can, but....

I'm supposed to get some news from several places next week.  We'll see.

Fall 2013 December 14 Saturday

43 degrees.  Almost seems warm!  Rain most of night, still some rain this morning.  Supposed to be a good week, weather wise, here next week.

We finally made a decision on the "Christmas t-shirts" yesterday.  (It is a secret).  Every year, we purchase a t-shirt for the adult children, grandchildren etc.  It has to be a place we have actually been, so one hint is it is in Memphis or Lakeland!    

I am looking forward to attending "Toastmasters" again.  I haven't attended for a long time since there weren't any meetings around that were close and even reasonably convenient.  I always enjoyed the meetings and speaking and am looking forward to attending some meetings.  I have kept my membership although I have a feeling it may have lapsed when I didn't get an invoice.  For those of you in Toastmasters, I was an ATM-S.  I understand this has all changed, and after 12 years it probably will be good for me to start all over anyway.

Still working on "Evernote".  I hope I can find a short course in it.  I think it could be valuable, but it seems to have some flaws, although maybe they are "user" flaws!  I have a hard time investing the time in learning a program I may not use, although if it works as claimed, it would be wonderful. I still haven't found the article I saved to Evernote (about Evernote!).  

ATC Fitness had a good music station on this morning.  I really like they way they keep it clean and replace items (like shower curtains) on a regular basis.  

I have to admit, NFL Pro Football just isn't getting my attention this year (or really even for the past several seasons).  I watch and think "so what, it's only about the money".  I still enjoy college football and college basketball.  Somehow pro football just isn't interesting any more.  Like they are going through the motions.  Maybe it will get better as the playoffs approach.

Fall 2013 December 13 Friday

25 degrees this morning.  I'm starting to sound like I just repeating the temperature!  This is about as long of a cold spell as I can remember since moving here.  

Went to a "Breakfast Briefing" yesterday morning.  I was good to get out and visit with people and learn something.

Need to update my journal for the International City Managers Association (ICMA)  "Credentialed Manager" designation.  I have to attend (and report on) 40 hours of training each year to maintain it.  It is a great program.  I have prepared my notes, just need to put them in the journal and get it uploaded by January 1.  It provides me with a good summary of what I learned during the year and how I used it.  

Still learning how to use "Evernote".  I read an article in the New York Times yesterday and made me want to expand beyond the little I use it for now.  It is valuable to pay for it, but I really don't feel I even come close to using it's full potential.  For example, I saved the article on Evernote to Evernote, but now I can't find it!  I will keep trying.  The article mentioned doing one small task at a time.  I always tell purple who want to learn computers or programs to "decide what you want it to do" and they will learn better.  I strongly  believe that, I just need to start practicing what I preach!  I will save this to Evernote every day just to help myself learn it.  

Only a few more days until Winter and the "shortest day of the year".  December 21, I believe

Fall 2013 December 12 Thursday

25 degrees this morning. 

Thursday, have a variety of activities planned today, including breakfast meeting (although I eat breakfast before I go since I have to desire to eat a breakfast of rolls and bagels, plus I am used to eating around 6 a.m.  Appreciate the effort though and I can always drink coffee.

I am coming to the realization that the Apple iCloud is probably basically useless for documents from word processing etc., when compared with Dropbox or even the Amazon Cloud or even Google Drive.  It is super for the calendar, notes, reminders etc. and worth it just for that, but I was hoping it would be at least as good for documents, but it is basically useless, as far as I can tell.  I've scheduled a 1 to 1 at the Apple Store on it, but expect ti will be bad news.  I am surprised they released an iCloud that is several generations behind Dropbox and Amazon.  

I have tried to used Android products (Google Chrome, Matrix 7 etc.), but they just don't compare with Apple projects in my opinion.  Of course, for me, the main thing is that I can got to an Apple Store and get assistance.  

I keep thinking I will ride my bicycle now that I have time, but I really haven't had the time, with the variety of other activities, plus the cold weather.  I'll make time when better weather comes!  I ride some almost every day, but it is a short "commuting" trip to the gym.  I need to work on my stamina 

Fall 2013 December 11 Wednesday

25 degrees this morning.  Normal low is around 38 degrees so this really is unusual and not "normal" for this area and this time if of year!!  Walked and rode bicycle to ATC Fitness.  I enjoy going there, they normally keep the exercise machines, showers etc. clean and in good repair.  There are actually quite a few people there (on weekdays) when I go, i recognize many "regulars", although I don't really talk with anyone (I read my newspapers and listen to music, most listen to some sort of music or read).

Have a "breakfast" this morning, the first event I have gone to like this since I am "in transition".  It will seem strange to go to a breakfast meeting and then the day is done.  

(Later):  Breakfast meeting this morning was great.  Food was good, discussion even better.   Another breakfast meeting (a seminar) tomorrow morning and am looking forward to that.  

HVAC (actually heating system) checked out and maintained today.  In this kind of weather it is good to know that everything is working ok and maintained.  

Fall 2013 December 10 Tuesday

28 degrees this morning.  However, it was dry and I was able to do all of my exercise including walking and cycling to the ATC Fitness Center.  I was relieved to get back on my normal exercise schedule, cold though it may be!  Actually it didn't seem as cold this morning at 28 degrees as it did last night at 32 degrees, although I think the wind was the reason.

Ophthalmologist yesterday (Dr. Passons).  Eyes are good, thank goodness.  He advised the cataracts he saw developing when I saw him about 11 years ago are still there, but are still very slow growing.  Everything else looked ok.  I did get a prescription for new glasses, although he advised me it was only if i needed a new set of glasses, or just wanted them.  I will get a new pair.  It has been at least 4 years since my last pair.  He is a super Ophthalmologist (he is packed and has about a 4 month lead to get an appointment), but I still don't like the drops in the eyes or the light examination or the dilation of my eyes!  I like it because both the doctor and the staff are all excellent.  

Looks like a sunny, nice day today, although it will remain cold.

Went to the Apple Store yesterday.  As almost always, a great experience with  the "1 to 1" program.  That is the major reason I buy Apple products, and the heck with Android or any other phone, iPad, iPod or computer, regardless of the price!  They really care.  Also, I have two "gumstick" iPod Shuffles (one cratered on me, I originally had three) that the battery is still good on, after at least 7 years and an iPod (80 GB) that the battery is still good on.  Plus an old iPhone 3 and 3s that make an excellent iPod touch since the battery is still excellent!  On the other hand, I do have an ancient Nokia phone (at least 6 years old) that the battery is still good and it makes a low-cost phone to take on my exercise with me.  Also, on the the other hand, in my opinion, the Apple iPod Shuffles after the "gumstick ones" aren't very good and they languish in my drawer (I only purchased one of each).  

Soon it will be Winter officially.  At least that means the "shortest day" of the year is over and the days start getting longer! I am always surprised at how the forest at the back of my house changes with the seasons.  In the winter I can literally see right through it, in the Spring and Summer, it is a complete mystery.  

Fall 2013 December 9 Monday

32 degrees this morning.  

Although there was no ice this morning, there were a few wet splotches, so I drove to ATC Fitness Center.  I was disappointed they'd changed to a totally inappropriate radio station for a gym (or anything else for that matter).  Usually I can block out the music, but when I have to take a shower there, (when I drive, when I bicycle, I shower at home) I take the blunt of the junk radio station.  

When LA Fitness comes, I may well switch to there just to avoid the radio station!  This morning there was an especially sick caller, don't know who was more sick, the caller, the dj's or the radiot station for allowing it.  (Or the listeners for listening to it.)

Nothing more exasperating (other than maybe trying to spell exasperating) than losing your car keys, even when you KNOW they HAVE to be here!  I finally deduced they HAD to be in my easy chair and of course they were.  Obviously there are a lot worse things that could happen, but that is one time wasting event I don't need in the morning.  I usually use a "silent butler" to put all of my stuff (keys, wallet, phone, watch etc.) and it not only saves time, but also helps avoid "losing" items.  While morning isn't quite as time constrained now as it has been, I am not changing any of my habits.  

Apparently came through the ice storm with our "Weeping Willow" tree bent over.  Hopefully I can get a stick put it in to get it straight again.  

I found a really helpful "pronunciation" "app" for my iPhone and iPad.  It is wonderful for pronunciation but also for finding the correct spelling for a word, it is that intuitive. 

Fall 2013 12-8-13 Sunday

30 degrees.  Light drizzle, but doesn't seem to be affecting the roads etc.  (It is gathering on the trees etc.)  Walked my usual walk this morning and drove to ATC without any problems.  Papers came right as I was leaving, which is  relief, although I always have plenty of reading material.  

Listening to music this morning, the "Orange Blossom Special" reminded me of my experience with the fiddle/violin.  

In OKC, I went to see Jana Jay perform at the National Cowboy Hall of Fame.  I can still feel the shiver that went down my back as she played the Orange Blossom Special" and other fiddle works.  Another time I was at an event in Kansas (can't remember what city, but one of the border cities near Tulsa).  The fiddle player broke into the Orange Blossom Special and I really got into it.  He noticed and we connected (via the music) as he seemed to be playing directly to me.  Not sure how long this went on, but I literally felt like I was part of the music.  I go to fiddle/violin events when possible and have assembled quite a collection of "Orange Blossom Special", "Faded Love" and "Ashokan Farewell" versions.  I also have a collection of "Amazing Grace".  

I tried to play the fiddle/violin for 10 years, but finally gave up when I moved to Lakeland.  A matter of time, hand problems and not having a teacher..  I never was that good but I enjoyed it.  I kept a fiddle I bought and also a Viola I bought thinking ti was a fiddle!

The Sunday papers were HUGE this morning, I guess with advertising.  They came right as I was backing out to go to ATC, so it was very welcome.

I have the best newspaper deliverer I have ever had (yes, I will remember his well at Christmas) and I dread the day he leaves or I move and no longer can get it delivered doe early.  I am always surprised at how important small delights are in life.  

On the other hand, maybe it isn't since a small delight.  I spend at least 36 minutes a day with my newspapers (Wall Street journal, New York Times and Commercial Appeal) and another 10 or 15 minutes with the electronic edition of the USA Today.  I get the electronic version of the other papers also, but enjoy reading the actual paper. 

Indulging in my secret vice, watching Country Music videos (at least they are on while I read or work on my computer), watching the video (Mumford and Sons,  "I will Wait") which I love to hear and plan on purchasing.  (no fiddles in the band though).  I don't know what attracts me to the song, but I loved it the first time I heard it. 

I like "CMT Pure" because they don't have  talkative "video jockey" (or any type of announcer) and I tape them so I can fast forward through most of the commercials and announcements.  

We'll see what Sunday brings.  Hopefully the freezing drizzle has stopped.

Fall 2013 December 7, 2013 Saturday

24 degrees this morning.  The good news is the "freezing rain" wasn't really a problem.  I woke up this morning expecting to see at least frozen streets etc.  Hardly disappointed I didn't, I was glad it was relatively nice.  I did my walk and almost road my bike to ATC, but decided I would drive to ATC since I didn't know if I could see frozen areas fast enough.  While it is cold, it really isn't that bad.  

Saturday.  I am glad it is a relatively good day so we aren't stuck inside.  At least on December 21, I will know we are on the way to Spring!  I had planned to have to be inside all day, but I think (unless it starts freezing rain) that it will be a cold, but nice day.

I walk almost every morning and walk past a neighbor that is involved in my current situation. This morning, I was thinking, I hope he is enjoying counting his 30 pieces of silver (figurative speaking).  He is probably a little too close to (and his head to far in) the "seat' of power, again figuratively speaking, to smell the roses or see what is really going on .

Aliene is going in for a "stress test" Monday.  Probably ok, but the Doctor thought she shouldn't take a chance. She started having pains after the meeting before Thanksgiving and went to the emergency room where they didn't find any heart problems.  However, there isn't any explanation for her chest pains, other than anxiety created by the current situation.  I'm actually doing fine, since I have had time to prepare for it and I know that "what goes around comes around" (karma will happen) although it won't help Aliene or I. I have heard enough about the other persons involved to know that it won't be good for Lakeland. "65% of the vote (actually 65% of the 15% who voted, which is more like 9%) doesn't mean they are right or they voted for any specific action.  People gag when they hear that quote.

My Mom would be 101 if she was alive today.  I remember when I was a child thinking it was unthinkable that she would ever die.  Then I watched her age and I realized there is no exceptions.  She died in 1997, so it has been sixteen years.  Time goes so fast.

Fall 2013 December 6 Friday

32 degrees, light rain. Apparently going to be freezing rain later today.  

ATC today had on one of radio stations that just aren't suitable for a gym.  Thank goodness I remembered my iPod today, I can basically ignore it while I am working out.  Since I couldn't ride my bike to ATC this morning I took a shower there, and the radio station has to be one of the worst.  In addition to inappropriate music for a gym, they had a long story about some woman who was going on a date with her sons best friend.  So what?  Another reason I avoid AM/FM radio stations.

Still listening to "Start with Why".  I thought when I started it might be too surface, but it is actually an excellent book.  

Getting ready for possible icy weather (actually you can't do a lot).  One good thing is I don't have to worry about getting out for any reason, the first time in years that I don't have to worry about getting out.  

While I have been keeping busy, I already realize I am not ready to be "Retired", at least in the classic sense

Fall 2013 December 5 Thursday

70 degrees.  Rode bike this morning, got caught in the rain on the way back.  Since I don't ride in the rain much (although I'll have to learn), I took it slow and easy.

I noted with regret that the one "regular" radio station I listen to, KRXO 107.7 in Oklahoma City, has converted to a "sports talk" format.  I found that hard to believe, but it is apparently so.  What a waste.  I got tired of listening to regular FM/AM radio because of the DJ's who think laughing for long periods is entertaining, crude "jokes" on people, vulgar language etc.  I'm really not interested in their personal opinions.  Fortunately there is XM radio, iPods etc., so it works out better anyway.  I still hate that 107.7 converted, there music was always good and probably caused me to drive about 10 mph faster.  No speeding tickets due to it thank goodness.  Ocassionally XM will have a DJ, so I turn to another channel.  I called and asked them why they had a DJ and they said some people prefer it since they "want a friend" on their morning drive.  Fair enough if that is what they want, but I"m still switching to a non-dj format.  

I keep thinking some day I'll learn how to use Evernote.  I think I got it and then it gets buggy on me and I can't trust it.  I plan on taking some time every day just working on Evernote and see if I can figure it out.  It seems to crash a lot.

70 degrees this morning, but the REALLY cold air is apparently coming in.  Probably freezing rain Friday and Saturday.  Freezing rain is a lot worse than snow (in my opinion).  This time, unless it affects the electricity, it probably won't be a major factor for me (other than inconvenience) since I don't have to get out anyway.  

I have not had to adapt much to "every day is Saturday" yet since I have been busy with a variety of meetings, Dr. appointments, meal appointments etc.  i am sure it will hit soon.  

Watching a tape of "Mad Money"  Jim Cramer is truly amazing on he tv program, as much an actor as anything, but also knows what he is doing.  I also enjoy his books and other web offerings, but his tv show is really where he shines.  

fall 2013 December 4 Wednesday

61 degrees.  Due to web pavement, didn't cycle, drove to ATC.

Stil in midst of dental implant, go to Dr. today for a checkup.  Probably will settle in on date for next stage (planting the posts).  Then I have to have the new teeth (actually a crown) put on the posts to make the final "permanent" teeth.  

A letter in the Commercial Appeal this morning is the perfect example of why bullies, dictators etc. continue to get elected and maintain power.  The letter write showed his ignorance as well as his apparent inability to decide for himself, he is willing to let some bully decide for him.  Interestingly, I predicted such a letter several days ago.

Listening to a relatively interesting  book during my morning walks, "Start with Why".  I will need to start summarizing what I hear each morning.  

I am amazed at all the leaves in our yard and in our back patio and we don't even have a tree in our yard! There are a lot of leaves, I"ll try to get a picture of it. I wish there was a practical way of allowing leaves to return to the soil and not having to cart them off to landfills etc.  

I hope I can use this period to expand my practical knowledge of computer programs.  I want to to be able to use technology better to save time and be more efficient in the future and also to be able to do more creative programs, such as composing music in "Garage Band".   Also want to expand my practical knowledge of investments.  

Fall 2013 December 3 Tuesday

51 degrees this morning

Good to get back to my exercise routine this morning.  I think I will delay reporting my weekly weigh-in this week after the Thanksgiving weekend!  I thought I maintained my eating habits fairly well but obviously the scales say I didn't!

I start my new Life style today, although actually I have a 4 hour training session this morning so I can maintain my continuing education credits for my Certified Municipal Financial Officer (CMF)) certificate.  It it an intensive (eleven 8 hour classes followed by a graded test) to obtain the certificate so I am making sure I maintain the 24 hours of continuing education each year to maintain it!   Then Aliene has a Doctors appt., so at least it will be a relatively busy day.

Looking out my window I realize it is truly winter, or rather late fall, the leaves are either completely off the trees or brown.  I probably won't be here (at this house) to see the wonderful colors or Spring come in for 2014, although you never know.

I decided it is best to maintain my routine, at least my early morning routine and I will set up a true office where I will work out of.  I really don't want to bother Aliene in her routine.  

For some reason Hertz has, for the third time, substantially increased my bill after my "confirmed reservation rate" is much less.  In Wichita, I had to actually take my computer in to show her.  This time, I decided I'll just call the head office and after this I will print out a copy of my reservation and bring it with me. 

Fall 2013 December 2 Monday

53 degrees this morning.

Thanksgiving is over, December is here and 2013 is almost over.  It was a good Thanksgiving, with lots of visiting.  It is enjoyable to see the entire array of family members and friends, from babies to whatever age.

Aliene spent Monday morning in the emergency room, with chest pains, but Anyway, she is ok, no heart problems. May be a reaction to some medicine or a possible reaction to some of the events here.

Time takes on a special significance on holidays, in emergency rooms, and at funerals.  Now I will also discover how time acts when I don't have a job to go too, I hope it doesn't last all that long!  I know how events and projects tend to expand to fill the time available.  It will be interesting and I am looking forward to new challenges and events while regretting leaving many of my staff, neighbors, friends and residents.  It is too bad the whole matter couldn't have been handled in a more classy manner, but then I have to consider who was leading the charge on this and his toadies.

I have always thought if this happened, I hoped it would be in the Spring when I could enjoy my time "on the beach" outside in good weather, but I can't have everything!  

Fall 2013 December 1 Sunday

45 degrees this morning.

Thanksgiving is almost over.  Like many things, you look forward to them and suddenly they are over.  I did enjoy the Holidays, it is just hard to believe that it is already Sunday and they are almost over.

Aliene birthday party  this afternoon, the last event of Thanksgiving.  It was a nice event.  it will seem strange to not have to go to work tomorrow.