Religious Shootings

I don't think I ever mentioned the shootings that happened a few weeks ago. I think it was on the weekend of December 9th. It was all over the news here. A young guy walked in to a youth training mission and asked to stay in the dorms. He was told no and it turned into a heated argument I guess. On his way out, he pulled out a gun and open fired. A few hours later he open fired on a church. He was killed by the security guard. Two sisters died during those shootings. Their dad was also shot and spent time in the hospital although he was released to go to the funeral. I drove by the church on my way to the doctor. Sad that a church would need security. Anyway, just thought I'd share.

Very bright outside. Not sure when the next snow storm is suppose to hit, but there's still a ton of snow on the ground from the last one (6 inch).

I'm tired. I'm also tired of being tired.

Winter Storm Warning

We're supposed to get another snow storm tonight throughout tomorrow. I need to go out to the bank & post office tomorrow. Crap. Most likely I'll need to go to the pharmacy also and pick up some more antibiotics for the abcess (which while has drained, has a thick very purple and slightly puffy ring around it). I'm really ticked at the renal doctors for doubling my prednisone and ditching me for 3 months as I think that has a lot to do with my slow recovery. I'm not waiting around for them much longer.

had a gallon of milk in the car for 2 days. Don't worry about it going bad. It's been thawing on the counter for the past 4 hours.

I ordered from Petsmart last week. A few items - hip medication for Winsey and such. 7:48am this morning I was awakened by the arrival of one stinken bag of pill pockets. Lovely.

Our First Christmas

Most likely I will post this in both the kitty blog and the colorado blog.

Last night was short on sleep. I just wasn't tired. I woke up at one point to find all 3 cats curled at my feet... or rather, my legs. They would never sleep as far down as my feet - that gives me too much room to squirm. I untucked myself for the bathroom and as is the usual custom, Winslow raced in ahead of me in an attempt to beat me to his 'water dish.' He then usually stands on the rim looking at me as if asking me to politely leave the room and wait my turn while he finishes his drink. Some times I push him off, other times I get a drink first.

After the usual battle for the bathroom, there usually follows a now playful kitty. Some times Waldo & Miss Kitty will join him in this although last night was a solo performance. Winsey defiantly insisted on scratching his nails on 4 different pieces of furniture as I yelled out to him from the bedroom. I was sorely tempted to jump out of bed and trim his nails right then when he finally turned around and started using the scratch post... even then it sounded like he was dead set on breaking the thing.

This morning I got up and grabbed the 3 little stockings with their names on them. I unloaded the toys and the fancy feast for them although I won't open the cans until dinner. Around 11am I dragged on my heavy coat and my California sandals to go check my mail and discovered a fresh 2-3 inches of snow... fresh, cold, snow. I didn't think it would start till later, but I was wrong! I broke a fresh trail in my sandals over to the mail box where I actually had several letters waiting for me, but no secret ipod from Krys - so apparently that will be something for another day.

When I got back, I pulled out my 3 new beds for the cats. Winslow hasn't wanted to come out from under the covers yet, but Waldo & Miss Kitty sniffed around each bed before deciding that they would rather play in the box that one of the beds was in (Waldo inside, Miss Kitty pouncing from the outside).

I opened the back door to the balcony to see if anyone would be bold enough to step out. Waldo was the first to go stand in the doorway, followed quickly by Miss Kitty & Winsey. Waldo sat there, looking at me in confusion and meowing. Miss Kitty took a leap and jumped over Waldo. After a few dainty steps outside she decided that it was too cold and came back in. Winslow would do no more than sit behind Waldo in the doorway. When a breeze blew a flurry of snowflakes (you can actually see the individual snowflakes as they fall) into the condo and onto the two boys, both shook out their fur and backed further inside. That being done, I closed the door for my wuss's. Both boys promptly tried to recover their macho images and stretched front paws up the glas door.

This concludes our first Christmas. Dinner will involve tuna noodle casserole for me and turkey fancy feast for the babes. I'll probably light the candles, turn on the christmas tree lights, and start a fire once darkness hits.

Merry Christmas Eve!

and Merry Christmas!

It's Christmas Eve. One of my packages to my family arrived, the other did not. So I guess my sisters will get their gifts late.

Not much going on. As I just wrote in my kitty blog - I have the new beds stashed in the closet waiting for morning. Tonight I'll put the toys and fancy feast in the stockings.

It's supposed to snow tomorrow. We have snow still from the last storm although it's definitely old looking and getting less each day.

Anyone have some exciting Christmas plans they care to share?

Extreme Makover: Home Edition

I was watching Extreme Makeover: Home Edition last Sunday and as the people walked through their new house discovering everything, I realized that I felt exactly the same after Shelly & Patrick left and I had this nicely decorated place.

The abcess burst yesterday. Pretty gross stuff, but at least it'll heal now. My cold (which I caught over the weekend) seems improved too although all the coughing still freaks Miss Kitty out.

I went and saw the Alvin & the Chipmunks movie. SOoooo cute! The chipmunks are anyway. Bad acting with the people though. Especially the guy that played Dave - he just bugged me like crazy. Seeing those animated little chipmunks was worth it though.

Yesterday the washer machine repair guy came. Apparently the cold water wasn't working, which is why it wasn't spinning.

Today I shop for little Christmas stockings for the cats. Of course they're totally unaware of all the holiday excitement (although Waldo does eye the mini tree), but I'm excited to give them their gifts & stockings seeing as that's all I have.

Krys did mail me a birthday/Christmas gift which hasn't arrived yet. It's so funny because every year she tries so hard to surprise me with her gifts, but I always figure them out. This year she was excited that she had finally pulled it off. Now she didn't wrap the gift inside the mailed package, and it's a good thing I asked - so I said I'd just leave the whole thing until Christmas morning. Then we were talking on the phone the other day about mailing packages at the post office and all the questions that they ask and she mentioned that she told him that it's an ipod...

'Krys- did you just tell me what my gift is?'
BIG PAUSE 'Awww man!!! I was so close!'

Now I have no idea how to work an ipod, or even what they do, but I guess I'll spend my Christmas day working on it.

Bad Miss Kitty

This morning I was peacefully sleeping with the boys when I heard a huge ruckus. No, it wasn't Santa coming early. An investigation proved Miss Kitty to be the culprit. You'll understand better once I post pictures, but for now - I will try my best to describe the event. As you all know, I have a fireplace downstairs. Above the fireplace is a mantel. Upstairs there are 3 more mantels. 2 smaller and one rather large one. This past weekend Shelly found a nice big corner desk for me on Craigslist and she & Patrick set it up upstairs. Miss Kitty decided to poke around and must've tried to walk from the top of the desk onto the big mantle - which of course knocked it off the wall. It broke some of the (what's that stuff called? crowning?) that lines the bottom of the wall and the mantle is too heavy for me to put back into place, so that will be something that Krys & I can work on together when she visits. Miss Kitty showed no remorse.

I did get two kitty gifts today which are currently stashed in the car awaiting Christmas. I'm excited, even if the cats aren't. I also managed to get the gifts for my family ready for mail. I just need to go brave the line at the post office now.

Lastly, I went to the doctor today to have the infection in my leg checked out since it's changed so dramatically over the weekend. Cat people, you will understand when I say - it's an abcess! A nasty one too. For those who are not cat owners (although I assume dogs get them too) an abcess is usually like a huge infected pimple that blows up on the cat. Because of the fur, you usually won't notice it until it's really big or bursts. A burst abcess consists of draining puss & blood. Usually hot compresses are the treatment needed and if you go to the vet they'll usually prescribe an anti-biotic to hurry the process and make sure it doesn't get infected. They'll also clean up the area a bit (shave the fur). I wasn't aware that people partake in this glorious experience, but low & behold, I have a disgustingly painful abcess on my leg. I've been given my antibiotics and told to put on the hot wet compresses to get it to explode. Yuck. Glad you read this eh? BTW- a cat getting an abcess is not necessarily from a fight. It just happens, so don't go blame the neighbor cat or your local boarding facility! I also wouldn't recommend opening the wound on your own as it increases the chance of infection...

Thank yous

Thanks to those who left me messages yesterday for my birthday. It just so happened that yesterday was a migraine day and I spent the entire day in bed. Shelly & Patrick were scheduled to fly out and I listened as Shelly called several places for last minute transportation and found nothing. They finally just took my car and I called a cab today and picked it up from the parking lot where they left it. I felt like the worst person ever. They did sooo much work making this place into a home for me and then I couldn't even take them to the aiport. My cough has gotten worse since the episode yesterday - more like a cold now. The driver must've sprayed the place down with lysol after I hopped out. I also missed a call from my doctor - so I have to wait until Monday to find out what the results are on the ultra sound that was done on my leg. Bummer - because it changed color last night and it's really not a pretty sight... Very sensitive too.

I stopped by Safeway on the way home today and bought myself a piece of chocolate cake. It looks so yummy! I am determined to eat out next year and have someone sing to me.

I did drag myself out of bed once yesterday for the UPS guy who showed up with a big grin and stated 'Keep ordering! I have kids to provide for!' My mom had sent me a live Christmas tree - fully decorated. How did she know? I had wanted to pick up a fake one at Target the other day, but forgot to go back and get it. Now I look at this live one in a panic and I know it'll be dead soon. I have the blackest thumb ever when it comes to plants. It's like giving the plant the stamp of death.

I know I keep saying this, but honest - I'll post pictures soon. Within the next few weeks anyway :)

Homey Surroundings

Shelly & Patrick flew in last Monday and it's been a whirlwind of activity ever since. I am soooo glad that they came. Monday, they set up my counter stools, couch, vacuum (and vacuumed) and we went shopping at Target. Tuesday I stayed in while they toured the Coors factory and Wednesday they snowboarded. Today I had an ultra sound done on the calf of my leg due to an odd mass that formed a few weeks ago and seems to have gotten irritated. Hopefully I'll find out the results tomorrow. I'm still recovering from Monday, so I stayed in and slept while Shelly & Patrick when to Walmart with my card and bought a couple of items. They also got me birthday/Christmas combo gifts to help spruce up the place. Right now it's 10pm and they're at Target while I plan to hit the bed soon. They also found a really nice big corner desk for cheap on Craigslist for me, picked it up, and assembled it upstairs and transfered my fax/printer up there. Shelly got a couple of nice lamps and Patrick got a coffee table - which hasn't been set up yet as we're now thinking oval instead of the rectangular shape. The tv has been put onto a nice stand/entertainment thing. Everything just looks so nice! I will definitely try to post pictures soon.

I've gotten so use to their company. It'll be lonely coming back from the airport tomorrow. I'll have to start driving again - Patrick's been doing all this snow driving for me. If I can though, I do plan to stop by the store and get myself a cake.

slip n slide

Still snowing. I could have buckets of icee now. I drove my way over to Safeway earlier and let me say that was the freakiest thing ever. The trip over wasn't so bad. The trip back = nightmare. First, let me say what a joy it was shoving the shopping cart through the snowy parking lot to my car (people, I discovered, don't even bother to park in actual spots seeing as there are no visible lines. You just kinda park wherever). Then there's the process of loading the car. Then taking the scraper and going around to scrape all the windows... again.

Traffic was slow going home, and I for one was glad. Left hand turns will be the death of me. The car skidded on the first one I made. I don't even know which lane I was attempting to use seeing as I couldn't see the lines. I drove slowly after that until I hit the next left turn. The light was only letting a couple of cars go at a time, but I couldn't see that due to the big truck in front of me. I slammed on the brakes when I realized the light was red only to skid out a little more and to have to reverse back into a semi-normal position. When the light finally turned green again, the car skidded... a lot... on the turn and it took a few cranks of the wheel to finally get it under control. After that cars passed me like crazy as I inched my way home - and I didn't care!

I got into my parking lot and seriously debated parking way over in visitor parking so that I wouldn't be likely to skid into my spot and hit the neighboring car. Fortunately it was only one car next to my spot. If both cars had been there on either side, I think I would have gone to visitor. I made it into my spot safely though and I can only hope my neighbors now won't hit me.

The next time I will even attempt to drive again is Monday. Shelly/Patrick flight comes in around 1pm and I plan to leave early! It's supposed to be like 30% chance of snow and then clear the rest of the week. Good chance I'll be handing over the car keys to one of them for Monday at least. They want Olive Garden that night and if they want to drive us over, I'm up for that.

The good news: It's only 15 degrees and dropping. I left the milk to be refrigerated in the car rather than lug it up to my floor. I'll get it in the morning.

icee anyone?

It's snowing again. It's suppposed to snow all weekend. I looked out about 20 min ago and discovered a white winter wonderland. I opened the back door and ran to get a cup & spoon from the kitchen. Waldo took the opportunity to take a step outside and after a dainty first step or two, merrily went on his way to create a kitty paw print border for my balcony. He then stood at the other end meowing and refusing to come in. I tried to take a picture of the adorable tracks he made, but even with the flash I think it came out too dark. I'll upload tomorrow and see if anything turns.

I, myself, managed to scrape together a big cup of slush. After adding some cherry syrup and calistoga sparkling water - it was the perfect icee.

Another Update Already?

I was just reading an e-mail update. Someone I know is currently dealing with infection/hospital/doctors/etc. I can't get it off my mind. Why? Well, sure - Ive been through some of that myself, but mainly because I'm a tad jealous. Surprised you say? Well here it is: her mom is with her. Yes, my parents would join me also - but I always felt guilty for that. My mom made such a show of the effort that it took for her to join me that I always felt more guilty having her there than supported. Then of course there was the constant disagreements with medical choices. If it were her, she would be doing blah blah blah. Somehow the center of attention always turned over to her and her illness and I would lay there just resenting that she even bothered to 'show' she cared. Yes, these are still issues I deal with now - and it has a huge impact on my desicion to live privately out in Colorado. This is also the reason why I usually put Shelly down as my emergency contact instead of my parents.

I will say this. The last two days have been rather painful for me. Not the 'normal' course, but a familiar one all the same. Just knowing that I am not under the watch of my mom has been a HUGE relief. I should mention, I have not given this link to my parents for this very reason. Whether or not it's been leaked out - I don't know.

I feel rather useless when it comes to others in need. I've always relied on humor to get me through my dark times. Those who keep contact during those periods know this (i.e. wanting to know where I'm going to get my girl bonding time if they remove my kidneys... us gals usually hang in the bathroom. Or posting slumber party signs on the hospital room door). This stuff doesn't help others though. Jokes tend to come off sounding more on the insensitive side when they're not about yourself. As a result, I awkwardly shy away from these situations. Know this though, if one of you is going through a trial - you are constantly in my thoughts.

So to this person that I mentioned earlier. May you be supported, and not smothered or controlled. You'll get through this.

Good News/Bad News

Good News: Dr. Dope is gone! Yesterday when I was at my primary, she told me that the kidney appointment had been bumped. Today when I rescheduled, I was told that the doctor is no longer with them. He gave notice last week.

Bad News: First available appointment isn't until Feb 5th. I have never gone that long between appointments and they changed around my meds at the last one so that means no check up for two more months.

Good News: My primary is accessible. I can call in the morning and see her that afternoon if needed. I think she'll also be great about giving me refills as needed.

Bad News: Waldo insists on scratching the stairs, and Winslow the end of the bed EVEN THOUGH I have scratch posts in both areas. They know it's bad too. All I have to do is turn around and look at them and they stop and give me this daredevil look.

primary physician = A+

Yay! I saw my new primary physician today and I love her. She actually had someone in training and I spent most of the time with her, but both were great. My new doctor put in for the refills that I needed via the computer even as I sat there and she gave me plenty of future refills. She had reviewed my case before I got there (unlike Dr. Dope) and gave me the necessary referals. I wish she would be the main person to handle my case, but no - I'll give Dr. Dope one more try before I ask for a switch. Speaking of Dr. Dope - my next appointment with him apparently has been 'bumped' (needs to be rescheduled) but so far no one has called to let m know this. So I'll ask tomorrow when I go in to get my port flushed.

Yesterday was a migrained day. Spent the day in bed with the cats. Good company except that when night finally did come around- all 3 became very active. It was a very long and noisy night. Migraines better today, but to reward myself for getting up early to go to the appointment - I gave in to the nachos craving.... ate way too much and as a result, I'm still recovering. You'd think I'd have learned from the horrible pizza the other day.

Now I'm waiting for Samantha Who? to come on. Anyone keeping up with Beatuy & the Geek? Winner to be announced tomorrow. Go Jazmine & Dave!

A Little Creepy

I have a couple of policies.

1) No getting gas after dark
2) No checking my mail after dark

Mainly because I know someone who was raped going up the stairs to her apartment after dark. So today it's raining - soon to be snowing. As a result, it's only 3:15pm and getting dark. Decided to check my mail early. No mail yet, but I froze my toes off walking over there anyway. As I was walking I noticed a figure standing in the bushes by the pool. About 6ft tall, with a backpack. Stood like a teenager although I couldn't see a face. What's creepy is that I had to walk right past this person an they stood there hiding in the bushes the whole time trying not to be noticed by me. I made it obvious that I knew he was there, looking back several times and staring, but still - he hid. I walked back to my place with keys between fingers and I didn't go directly to my door. I'm sure he was probably sneaking over to hang with a friend or something, but still - I'm new here. If something were to happen, no one will notice until they try to collect rent.

I should get some pepper spray.

Last night I was surprised to find myself alone. I left the bedroom in search of my three furry friends and found the boys sleeping in the doorway (??). I went over to them and as if planned, they both rolled onto their backs for belly rubs. I laughed.

Miss Kitty has been super bored today. She can really fling those mice! The boys have been under the covers all day. Winslow on the bed and Waldo next to the bed with the covers hanging over. What? Who says I didn't make the bed?? Okay, no I did - but they like it like that!

Fax Notice

Well, I sent out little moving announcements and on that I wrote my home/fax #. Earlier I answered the phone to discover that it was a fax trying to come through. The fax machine then told me it was connecting, but nothing ever showed. So! To note: I don't know how to set up the phone in such a way that you can call and have the option to either leave a message or fax. Therefore, in order to test out this advanced technology of mine - you have to call and let me know that a fax will be coming through. That way I can adjust the rings for the fax machine to pick up instead of answering it myself. Or send me an e-mail and let me know what day. That works too :) Otherwise, for all I know - it was some advertisement - although the number is supposed to be unlisted.

Arrival of the COUCH

Couch arrived this morning via two very out of breath UPS men. It's in boxes - ready to be assembled with only the aide of a screw driver (so the website claims). Heavy boxes. Which will most likely stay in my front room until Shelly arrives. Along with the big box of firewood that I am unable to move from the front door - that needs to be stored in the balcony storage. How nice it will be to have my couch though!

Time for a kitty blog as they were hilariously active last night.

A bad cheat

I saw Pizza Hut on TV and I ordered myself a pizza. Yes, I am that easily swayed. I've been doing really good on my diet for a few days now and as a result lost some water weight. Well, tonight I sit here feeling disgusting and thirsty. The pizza wasn't even good. Well, it was cooked 'daddy style' (it was waaay undercooked). I was basically eating dough smothered in sauce. Interesting since I had said to go light on the sauce. So I've been cured. The English muffin pizzas that I usually eat are way tastier (and lower in sodium).

Unfortunately I'm still really craving nachos.

Waiting for UPS now. They dropped by yesterday but I was out. They were supposed to come back between 2pm & 5pm today, but I have yet to see them and it's 6:45pm now. Not like I really look forward to adding to my box collection.

Bought a scratch post for the cats. Hopefully this will replace the end of the bed. There are two toys that are upposed to dangle. I can't get the top off to get the toys to dangle though. Cats don't seem to mind. All these mice on the floor and they're playing with the two new balls like crazy.

I turn 26 in approx. two weeks. Surprised? Yeah, it gets over looked a lot during all the holiday festivities.

An awesome neighbor

Wow. Today I went to get plates for my car. I put in my purse: current registration, current insurance, and the title to my car. On my way out, I grabbed one of many boxes that I needed to put into the dumster. The title to my car was sticking out of my purse a little, so I made sure to stuff it in good (or so I thought) and continued on my merry way. Arriving at the DMV, I discovered that my title was missing. Great. Parking lot at my place is the only thing I could think of. I went in anyway hoping that I wouldn't need it and that I would be out again in time to find my title. Fortunately for me, I didn't need it. I now have official green & white license plates for my car. No more feeling like an outsider! You know how it is when you're driving behind an out of state vehicle - they can be driving a perfect 10 and still you'd think 'that moron should get off the road!' Whether or not I'll be able to get the plates on the car myself is an entirely different matter. I may have to wait for Shelly & Patrick.

Upon arriving back at my place, I noticed right off that I didn't see the title floating around the parking lot. I hopped out of the car and began to glance under neighbor cars. Almost right away, I heard a man's voice 'Excuse me!' I knew then, that I'd been found out. He said he had discovered it an hour earlier when he arrived home from work and that I was one lucky person because someone easily could've forged my signature on the back, taken the car, and I'd be 'out of shit. Especially with all the Mexicans around.' That last phrase kinda surprised me seeing as well, he is one. He had obviously been awaiting my return - watching out the window probably - and was very proud of his good deed of the day. I, in return, am extremely grateful.

So to review: I've gotten my first speeding ticket, locked myself out of the car, left my bank card at the bank, and lost the title to my car. Anyone care to take a guess as to my next adventure?

P.S. UPS also dropped by while I was away. With 3 boxes of things ordered from Target, but I need to sign for them. I'm hoping (for the sake of the UPS driver) that they didn't bring the boxes up and THEN discover that I was away.

The Cold Continues

It is 20 degrees right now and dropping. It hasn't snowed again since that one night, but there is still quite a bit of snow on the ground still. It was a good 3 inches of snow at least. I, of course, and showing my true California colors. No gloves and cheapy tennis shoes means I freeze every time I go out. The first time I drove, I had the great idea to start the car and let it run while I dumped the trash. So I opened the drivers door, leaned in, started the car, looked at the windshield, and decided to run the wipers. That's fine and all... if you close the door first. The wipers promptly deposited all the snow into the drivers seat where I then had to scoop it out with my hands. I now have gloves & boots arriving by mail some time soon. I saw a few snowflakes falling earlier, so there is the possibility of more snow this weekend.

Oh, and HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all who read this. I, for one, enjoyed being alone for the holidays - despite the fact that my phone rang off the hook with calls from well-wishers/people checking up on me.

I have had moving announcements addressed for some time now. Was waiting on stamps, which I finally got today. So expect an announcement soon. I should've just written a Merry Christmas greeting in there too, but oh well.

Winter Wonderland

Last night I got up to do some investigation. Loud noises coming from the living room turned out to be Miss Kitty in a box playing with the packaging. An activity she wasn't very willing to give up. On my way back to the bedroom, I glanced out the back door and noticed that the balcony looked 'funny.' A closer look proved that it was covered in snow - which was continuing to fall. My first thought was 'grab Winslow! See what kind of paw prints he'll make with those big feet of his!' (For those who don't know, Winsey is a polydactel cat - he has thumbs). Reason soon took over. My next realization was 'Aww crap, I don't want to drive in this!' Today I have to run to the pharmacy to get my extensive list of medications, and also to Safeway to get some last minute ingredients for my Turkey Day meal. I had also planned on taking the car in for an emissions test since it needs to be done in order to register the vehicle (and I only have so many days left), but now I'm thinking it'll have to wait until after this holiday.

Meanwhile, at 20 degrees, it looks as though the snow has been cleared on the roads and it is just lightly coming down. So I should probably hurry before I really get trapped here. Things sure are bright in this white land of snow. I'm buying night shades...

my first appointment

I went to the University of Colorado today for my first medical appointment. The drive takes 20 min without traffic and the hospital reminds me a lot of Stanford. The doctor who came in to see me hadn't reviewed my case at all and kept asking stupid questions. What I was telling him just wasn't sticking. 'Why do you bloat up?' and who knows how many times he asked me why my kidneys aren't working. Finally he stepped out to review everything with his 'staff.' 20 minutes later he was back with someone who obviously was his senior. This guy at least knew what he was doing. He seemed fascinated by my case. He also told me that my kidneys are only working at 1/3 the level they should be. He basically took over the appointment while still trying to make it seem as if Dr. Dopey was still in charge. In order to keep a 'close' watch on me, they want to see me in 3-4 weeks. Uh-huh...

They didn't know what a pas-port is, so telling them that I need to get mine flushed next week was interesting. I also need to find a primary care doctor because unlike my last doctor, they don't want full responsibility for me. I'm also being sent to see an auto-immune specialist, but first I have to find a primary who can refer me to one because no one will see anyone with out a referral.

The cats, meanwhile, are settling in. Waldo was sneezing continuously yesterday and I was afraid he'd caught a cold on his trip, but today he's been fine. He and Winsey are actually getting along. I caught them sleeping together the other day. Miss Kitty is preoccupied with her toy mice. I bought a bag of them and pulled out 3 of the toys for play. Last night I heard the crinkle of a bag and upon investigation, found that Miss Kitty had pulled the bag of mice off the shelf and now lay with her paws around it. So I dumped the rest of the mice on the floor for her.

It's cold today. Yesterday it was 89 when I checked the temp. Today it was in the 30s... most likely down in the 20s now. I even drove through a patch of snow on the way home (although it wasn't heavy enough to actually hit the ground). As a result, I came home and found Winslow buried in my covers.

My tv arrived this morning. My internet was hooked up yesterday (as well as the new phone line). Couch will most likely be here within the next two weeks.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

moving things along

My babies are coming!!! I am sooo very excited because the weather is just getting COLD and I thought for sure it would be delayed! However, I just received an e-mail stating that the cats have been booked for an afternoon flight on Friday. If all goes well, I’ll get them that evening!! Oh crap, I just remembered - that means I really need to get to the pet store tomorrow. I also need to find their big litter box (self cleaning) which is currently packed… on the bottom… in my car.
Yesterday I went to the DMV where in a total of about 2 hours and 4 lines, I was able to get my Colorado license. Well, paper for now. The actual license will be mailed in 2-3 weeks and I dread it. Krys was complaining that her eyes are closed in her picture. Well, I am the exact opposite. I haven’t seen it yet, but think ‘deer in the headlights’ and you’ll have me. Very wide eyed and nervous looking. Unfortunately I take very bad ID photos (anyone remember my Great America one? And that was AFTER he let me retake it too).
Now I am in the process of figuring out how to register my vehicle. I need the title (which is currently in a box in my car), proof of insurance (currently being transferred to Colorado), VIN # (that’s what’s on the dashboard by the windshield right? The website keeps talking about getting one - can they be reassigned?), and an emissions check (little confused here. Need to talk to someone because there’s been statements that yes I need it and no I don’t because the vehicle is under 4 years old). Of course the crappy internet is limiting my research.
Speaking of internet - for a lovely sum, I will be getting my own service starting on the 19th. I will also be getting a local phone line (although I will keep my cell - long distance). The local line will be a combo for fax (those rare occasions).
My bed came today. No more sleeping on the floor! It’s a tempur-pedic. A little more firm than I’m use to. I have a ton of other items arriving right before Thanksgiving (tv, fax/scanner/printer, etc.). I also ordered a couch. I was debating if I should order one and have it delivered or wait for Shelly & Patrick to come visit, but then I realized today (when I saw a couch that I really liked at the thrift store) that I can’t fit it into my car anyway. So I went ahead and ordered online and let’s just say that with my next move - I won’t be getting rid of all the furniture like I did this time.
Update on the washer machine: Of course as soon as I e-mailed the realtor I got it to work. It gets stuck going through the wash cycle, but it doesn’t seem soapy or anything. Just soggy. So if I push the knob forward (a lot) to the spin cycle… it’ll start spinning eventually. Although I don’t think it can handle big loads. So I told the realtor I didn’t mind babysitting it and he said to let him know when I get tired of ‘helping it along.’ As long as I don’t get blamed for breaking it when I move out, I’m fine with that.

camping out with no clean clothes in sight

I tried to do some laundry today and discovered that I have a weak washer when it comes to to spinning the water out. So I e-mailed the realtor (bugging him, already?). Here's what I sent:

Hi Merlyn,

When the washing machine was tested, did it run the full cycle? I tried to do some laundry tonight and discovered that apparently I'm not the only weak thing around here. It seems to have trouble spinning the water out of the clothes... I've tried all 3 cycles, but it'll just sit there humming for however long until I give up. I've also taken items out to lighten the load, but anything less and I could probably accomplish more just flushing my clothes around in the toilet (not that I would).

Sorry to be such a pain already (I try not to!). Otherwise I'm really enjoying the campout until I get some things in here.

-Marika

-----------------------------
Otherwise, my bed comes Wednesday. My cats might be delayed due to cold weather, but hopefully I'll definitely have them in time for Thanksgiving. I'm working on getting my own internet service & a phone line (local calls/fax/incoming calls). I've discovered that the pool area does actually have jacuzzi - even if it's closed for the winter. I lit my fireplace for the first time today. Going to the DMV to get a Colorado license tomorrow. Need to call the car insurance person back with my new license # and I dread the quote. Decided to go ahead and get renters insurance since I'm 'really' on my own now. Hey - does that cover cat urine? Thought I'd ask anyway. My tv comes the day before Thanksgiving and I will be horribly deprived by then.

Still Camping

Well, the bank has put my latest batch of charges on hold. Guess they're suspicious with all this sudden activity in my account. So I am still sitting/sleeping on the floor with no furniture. Tomorrow I do plan to get some starter logs though to test out this fireplace!

The realtor came by today with the rest of my keys. I practically drooled as he handed me the pool key - even though it's winter. I only had a few minutes notice before he came by. He called my phone and said he 'happened to be in the area, can he drop by in 5 minutes?' A mad rush followed the conversation as I ran to move my campsite into the bedroom and out of sight. I barely tossed in the last of things when he knocked on the door. That was SO not 5 minutes! I opened the door to find him standing there with a half eaten lollipop in hand. I hid the smirk, but it was just so cute watching a grown man in his somewhat nicer work clothes holding a lollipop. He then asked if he could check the furnace for something. Here is where I once again show my brilliance as I stood there and went 'sure!' and then tried to figure out if the furnace was upstairs or on the balcony. He read my thoughts and with a laugh stated that it's on the balcony. 'Oh, so it must be the water heater that's upstairs' is my next thought. The realtor checked the filter in the furnace and then, being now use to my newby-ness, explained that I need to replace it once a month. I can just take it to home depot and let them cut me a new one. Good thing he told me!

After he left I headed to the Doller Tree where I picked up a grand total of around 30 items. Okay like 5 were food/drink items, but the rest were a nice cheap replacement for items that would've cost me more at Target. I even got my shower curtain, which while is obviously cheap - I'm thrilled to no longer need to mop up the bathroom floor after each shower.

My front porch light mysteriously works now. It hasn't worked the last two nights (at least not to my knowledge). There is a round switch by the front door that so far has done nothing. Tonight I went out to the car to get a load of stuff and discovered my porch brightly lit. The switch still doesn't do a thing, so for now I'm going to assume that the light is on some kind of timer. I guess I'll see in the morning if it goes off. Like half my neighbors have their lights off which leaves me to wonder who controls all this? I have a light over the balcony - with a functional switch...

Moving In

I have signed the lease! Now I sit in my new place... a little lonely. Can't wait for the cats to join me. Someone here has wireless because I'm able to get online. My computer says it's a bad connection, but it seems to be moving just fine for me. I called and had gas & electric switched to my name. The guy tried to get me to sign up for cable tv, phone & internet services. I told him I'm already getting internet and have a phone... he seemed shocked that I didn't want the tv. What? No tv?? Now I don't know what Colorado tv is like, but as long as I get some basic channels and can watch my Greys Anatomy & Samantha Who? Then I'm fine. I've never had the luxury of the other channels in the past. So once I purchase a tv I'll have to test it out. According to the listing, it says "Cable Available" So maybe if I figure out how to hook it up, I'll already get it. I see a cord coming out of the wall by the fireplace... so maybe that's it.

I asked the realtor if I need to get snow tires. He laughed. Nope, not unless I plan to ski. Now it's my turn to laugh. I get another copy of the apartment key, the mail key, and the pool key some time this week. There's also a guy coming to replace a couple of windows that the realtor claims are foggy. To me it just looks like there's a screen, but it bothers him apparently.

3rd floor up and I'm already feeling it. I dread unloading the car. I was trying to hide how out of breath I got when I came up with the realtor. I think I'll order as much as I can online and then they have to deliver to my door. As for now, I'm off to buy an air mattress so that I have some place to sleep tonight! Oh, and I'll probably pick up a starter log or two. Hopefully I don't burn the place down my first night trying to use a fireplace. He was nice enough to show me about the um... vent thingy in the chimney at least - which is good because I can very well picture me making that little boo-boo.

Another stroke of brilliance/Pictures

Well, first let's review. Day 2: pick up speeding ticket. Day ?: lock self out of car. Today: Go to the bank to get cashier's check for speeding ticket & rental. Act like clueless dumbass '...it has to be made out to someone?' and get money orders instead. Leave bank branch without card. Get back to hotel - call and confirm with bank they have card. Drag happy self back out for another trip to the bank.

Here are some pics of the new place:

These are turning out really small. Anyway 1) the kitchen with the stairs leading up to the loft above 2) my bedroom 3) the deck/balcony 4) the living room w/fireplace 5) loft

HOME

Ladies & Gents - Friends & Family,

I have a place! The realtor just called me (8:45pm) to say that I definitely have the place! He said he ran the credit check and found it to be exactly as I had described - no history and a couple of inquiries from the cell phone company (yeah, it was a huge pain getting a cell on no credit). He also made sure to point out that he had several calls regarding the place today but that he told them there was already an applicant. ME! So yes, I am very excited. I sign the lease on Friday and do a walk through with him. Tomorrow I have to go get the cashiers check. Carpets were cleaned today and they'll empty out some items tomorrow.

The only furniture I have right now is a hammock, which I plan to put in front of my cool fireplace. Oh, and an exercise chair known as the 'hula chair' which I will probably not be able to get up the stairs. That could be embarrassing 'Hi new neighbors! Nice to meet you! Care to help me with an early New Years resolution?'

I plan to send out announcements with the new address (don't want to publicy post it). So e-mail me your addresses! Most of you know my kotter.com e-mail account, but I'll post my yahoo one here in case you don't. I avoid making the kotter.com account public so as not to get spam (although somehow it still managed to find me).

countrycatgal@yahoo.com

So if anything, maybe the next time you see me, I'll be 10lbs lighter or at least more muscular from going up and down 3 flights of stairs. Maybe I can dangle some cheese at the top or something to motivate me. I'm very excited about the fire place. No more fireplace DVDs, I can buy my own easy starter logs at Safeway. For Thanksgiving I'll buy my premade food and pop it all in the microwave and walah, you'd never know that I cheated on everything. I can even get food scented candles to help with the homemaker appearance (any future husband prospects out there - you did not see this post).

Ooh, Kenny Chesney is performing on tv... wow, I've missed my country. Hey, what are the odds that some country guy would love 3 cats and a disfunctional kidney person who can't cook cuz Josh Turner's kinda cute ;-) Okay, better end here.

Home

I am in Thornton, CO. I've spent two nights at some Economy Lodge place and I will check out on Friday which is when I will move into my new place.

I discovered Thornton when I came to check out a place that I'd found on Craigslist. I knew I was home when I was driving around and found a nephrology/dialysis center. I also found a Safeway which is complete with a deli/grill/pizza area. AWESOME. The place where I am staying at turned out to be cheaper than the motel 8's and it's even got a small kitchen complete with cookware.

Today I called and was shown a place. It's a 1 bedroom place, but it has a loft that can be used as a second bedroom (guest room?). I laughed when the realitor showed me one of like 3 storage areas and said I could put the litter box in there (excellent!). The carpets will hopefully be cleaned tomorrow and then I can move in on Friday. I just need to get a statement from my accountant and a cashiers check. I called the accountant and was told that usually the realitor will send them a form of verication but she'd ask to see if they're allowed to generate something. They'll call me back tomorrow. I've heard that there are Washington Mutuals around here, so once the realitor gets back to me, I'll head over and get a cashiers check. I need to get one for that speeding ticket anyway.

The one drawback to this place is that it's on the 3rd floor. So A) good - no more listening to people stomp around! B) I was very embarrassed at how out of breath I was. How the heck will I get furniture up there? Shelly & Patrick are going to looove their visit to see me C) there's a pool! That will come in handy during the summer D) There's also a dryer - WALDO!!! He loves the dryer. E) garbage disposal & dishwasher & fireplace oh my! All of this is for $100 less than I was paying for my small one bedroom in CA.

Moving On

I spent two nights in Georgetown with no internet. I could tell the first night that I didn't want to stay permanently. It's VERY cold there and the air (or maybe the altitude?) seemed to dry out my throat even more than usual. I made plans the first night to head out the next morning and check out nearby cities. Then I would come back for another night before leaving that second morning. I stopped to get gas on my way out my first morning there. Bad habit of mine, I sometimes leave the key in the ignition (with it turned off of course) while I pump the gas. Only this time, the car managed to lock itself (I swear I didn't do it!). Great. My purse, cell phone, everything was locked inside. There was a truck parked nearby with a guy smoking inside. I asked if he could help and he came and looked, but said he didn't know how to break into my car. Next I headed inside and told the laughing cashier of my predicament. I was eventually sent over to the only mechanic shop in Georgetown. They in turn called a guy named Jason who came from a nearby town. I waited inside the gas station and by the time I even noticed that Jason had come to my car, he already had the passenger door half open. It was well worth the $50 and I now have a business card from the' lock doc' in my purse. He was a very nice guy about my age from Santa Rose, CA. Of course my earlier debate of 'should I wear makeup or should I not' came flashing to mind and I kinda wished I had actually worn make up :-p

All is good though and today I am in Aurora. I met someone earlier re: a place to rent. It's a 2 bedroom place in the basement of a house. A little busier of a neighborhood than I would prefer, but it'll do and maybe in like 6-12 months I can search for something more quiet once I've settled in. The cats join me on the 16th, so my main concern is to be ready for them.

Georgetown

Wow. What a place. I'm not sure what to think. It's very small and definitely historic. I checked in to the hotel like 1.5 hours before the check-in time and while the guy didn't kick me out, I don't think he was thrilled. I have a map of this place and plan to go shopping later. There's a Target like a half hour from here which I'm sure will be my new best friend.

I drove through a TON of snow today. Never driven in snow so I can't say I was very enthusiastic. Need to check into the whole snow tire thing.

Due to the fact that it's such a small place, I'm not really sure where to start with housing. I did notice some apartment like structures in one area, so I guess tomorrow I'll drive around and see if I can spot phone numbers or doors to pound on. It's cold though! I might want to buy some shoes first. There is skiing nearby for those interested in visiting here. Rafting too I believe. Oh, and get this - as I was checking in at the super 8 motel here, the guy read my note about moving to the area and said they need a front person. He's interested in hiring me! Holy cow that was fast. I said I'd have to get back to him though because honestly I should make sure I can actually get housing first. The good news is that with a motel job, maybe my hours wouldn't have to be the normal 9-5 and then I could work a night or something which would allow me to go to the doctor during the day.

Speaking of doctors- I have an appointment Nov 20.

I'm In A Hurry...

I'm in a hurry and don't know why...

Anyone know that song? It's country. I use to listen to it while I drove Krys around and yelled at slow cars. Catchy.

Well, yesterday I got caught.

Anyone remember my telling a story of a particular drive down to see Shelly in Santa Barbara? It was about midnight and I was trying to stay awake. I had the windows down and the music blaring (the COPS theme song of all things) and I sang along at the top of my lungs as I passed an officer at about 100mph. Fortunately he was on the phone or something and didn't notice me although it gave me a scare.

Now let's go back to yesterday. Horrible migraine day, but I drag myself out of bed at 11:30. Check out time is noon. I shower quickly and manage to get on the road only a few minutes after 12pm, but the migraine plagues me. I finally manage to get into my book on CD which is a Nicholas Sparks book called "The Guardian." It's about a lady who dates a guy who seems to be Mr. Perfect until she breaks up with him and he turns into a stalker. It's done wonders for my comfort level.

I'm mentally counting down the hours until I'll feel like it's a decent time to stop for the night. I'm thinking that it'll have to be a 3 hour day and I'll end this torture early. When it comes to the exit that I'd chosen for the end, I debate - and finally decide that I think I can make it another hour to Battle Mountain after all. I zip past the exit and continue on my way calculating that I should make it there in just under an hour. As the miles flew by, I realized that I would make it much earlier and began to feel excited that my misery would soon be over. FINALLY, I see the exit - in RECORD TIME! I look in the review mirror as I signal and begin down the ramp and see lights flashing in the distance. 'Ambulance' is my first thought as this is the exit for the hospital also. I debate if I should stay in the left lane or move to the right lane where it would have more room to pass... except that the closer the lights get, the more I realize it's not an ambulance. Oh CRAP. Hopes are dashed when the vehicle does NOT move around me, but stays behind. This is awkward. I've never been pulled over before and I don't know where to go. Brilliantly I hover both lanes in indecision before making a right without my blinker. I slowly continue on with my new buddy behind while noticing that there isn't really room to pull over, but would he accept my continuing on a little farther? A look in my side mirror shows him calling me in over the radio. I pull over in what little room there is while frantically looking for the off button on the radio. Yeah, it took me a few seconds to figure it out, but fortunately I got the Christian music (the only station willing to come in) off before he strolled up the passenger side. License and registration. I hand him my license as he looks over the very packed vehicle and asks if I'm moving. Better that he said that then 'where's the place you just robbed?' I stated that I am moving and that my registration is buried in my glove compartment - I'd have to come around and unload the front seat to get to it. I'm sure that's something every officer wants to here. He asks if the car is registered under my name and since it is - he said he could look it up. I was told that I was clocked at 92mph where the zone is 75mph. I was a bit relieved that it was only 92... he handed me a ticket for $107.00 and said I can either come back for court (ha!) or mail it in. Then he wished me luck on my trip and left. Here is where I sit unsure if I should pull out first. Figuring I'd better try or risk him coming up to see what's wrong, I cautiously signal and pull out. Now I'm heading the wrong way, for the hotel is on the other side of I-80. So I make a right and head down a residential street as I see him make a U. I, in turn, make a U and come back to make a left and go over to my motel. Only as I'm making the left do I see him sitting there on the other side. Whether he's either still filling out a report or he's got his radar up again, I don't know. To my horror I look down and discover that I'm going 30mph while a quick look shows the speed limit at 25mph. I'd smack my head, but I have a migraine. Fortunately if he noticed he must've had pity and I slowly inch my way over to the motel.

Now I have to figure out how the heck I'm going to get a cashiers check to mail. I assume I have to find a bank for that. I also assume that I need to complete some kind of traffic school to get the point off my record. He only ticketed me for going 5 over, so I think I'm eligible. I just don't know about the whole CA license in NV thing. Shelly says 'call my boyfriend!' I'm chicken, so P - if you have this link, I'm myspacing you!

For those tracking my progress. I spent last night in Battle Mountain, NV. Now my newly acquired ticket and I have moved on, but that I'll save for tomorrow's post.

The first night

Here I am, on the road. I got a really late start due to a back up on my refills (medications). Didn't leave the house until 2:30pm. I only got 4 hours of sleep last night and as a result, my migraines returned. So it was a miserable time on the road (although now I've got my vicodin). So I didn't push the driving and I am now in Truckee, CA for my first night. Of course this won't be posted until tomorrow, so you'll be reading this a day late.



Little bit of traffic, but otherwise and uneventful drive. The toll guy looked in my car and commented on how packed it was. I just smiled and said 'yep!' The hotel lady looked at my drivers license and went 'whoa! when did you get rid of all the hair?' which kinda made me laugh because I am so use to the short hair now that I forget it use to be long.



I don't plan push myself with the driving. I will most likely roll into Georgetown Tuesday/Wednesday. I brought some food with me so the only meals I plan to eat out is lunch... and that's mainly for use of a restroom. No snow in sight although this is obviously a ski area that I'm in. Signs everywhere announcing spots to pull over and put on chains. I ordered chains before I left, but they didn't make it in time. Probably Monday they'll show up at the house. That's okay. They were just back up as I have 4 wheel drive already.



Okay, time to catch up on sleep so that I can actually get some good driving in tomorrow!

E-mail Notification

My Kotter.com e-mail is down! My parents are switching from dial-up to wireless (welcome to current times!) and so there is a new kotter.com host. Not fully operational yet. I have received e-mails from a couple of you (and even started replying) but I am unable to send anything during the next couple of days, but replies will be on the way! Until then, if something bounces back - just resend in a couple of days and I will continue to blog on here. You can also comment on here although I've heard it requires you to sign up.

Colorado a go!

I was sooo nervous today walking into my doctor appointment. The nurse laughed and said 'your blood pressure is a lot higher than usual - are you excited?' Truth be told, it's been high all week. My doctor, much to my surprise, was prepared for this to be my last visit with him. He was great and gave me advice about being cautious and said I could call him any time. Seeing as he is the emergency contact on my bracelet - it could happen. He asked me if I have a shovel or an overcoat. I told him I plan to shop along the way. Have I mapped out my route? Well, I bought a GPS that I'm learning to use and I have an atlas that I can't read...

I couldn't stop smiling after I left the office. I am FINALLY beginning my journey! My clothes are washed and just need to be packed tonight. Medication is all called in to the pharmacy, so I'll drop by and pick it up tomorrow. The next time you see a post, it'll be from a motel room... hopefully not in California.

Contact made in Denver!

I finally talked to someone in Denver who seems to be in charge. Apparently the paperwork that was sent over had the wrong contact info for my doctor as well as myself. So that's why we never heard from them. They also couldn't read the insurance card. So I gave the insurance information over the phone just now and the lady registered me. I am now ready to be reviewed, which should happen on Tuesday. They will then call me by Friday at the latest and depending on how the review goes, that will determine how soon I get in to see someone. Maybe my doctor will call and urge them to get me in sooner rather than later because I still plan to leave on Saturday. I can use the wait time to get out there and find a place to live so that way I'll at least be settled.

Weather is cold in Colorado. According to the Weatherbug on my phone - 40s during the day, 20s @ night. I put Georgetown into my GPS earlier and was told that if I left then, I could arrive at 4am.

Tomorrow I spend the day packing (today is laundry day) my clothes, preparing the cats kennels, & having a last dinner out with Krys. Oh yeah, and the doctor visit in the morning where I tell my doctor of 3 years (every week for 3 years) that it is my final visit.

Insurance - my life saver & the pain in my side

Last week I contacted Denver to get an update on the status of my review. I was told that reviews take place by doctors on Tues & Wed of every week. They were missing some paperwork on me and they were trying to contact my doctor. If the missing paperwork was submitted, my case would be reviewed in a week. I called my doctor on Monday to make sure they had gotten a hold of him. He didn't know anything about missing paperwork, but said he would call and ask. Today is Wednesday. I plan to call Denver tomorrow to see if my case was reviewed. I see my doctor Friday morning and then I plan to leave Saturday.

Not a good hint: The nurse from my doctor's office called today and said that I need to bring my health insurance card with me Friday so that she can send a clear copy to Denver as they were unable to read the other one. Is this the missing paperwork? Does this mean that they're still waiting and won't review my case until NEXT week?

Insurance pays a lot... seriously. Without it, I would've had to give up treatment within the first year. But now my patience is definitely being tried. If I can get away with it, I'll leave and set up the appointment while on the road. After all, isn't that what cell phones are for?

Delayed - just a bit

The papers that my doctor sent to Denver are apparently incomplete. Therefore they have not processed my referral and blah blah blah. Right now I have an appointment with my doctor on Oct 26th, but I'm hoping to take off straight from there or the next day.

My vehicle is already packed. I just need to get some chains. According to the weatherbug on my phone, it snowed over the weekend. My doctor asked me today if I have a shovel...

As for the cats. I just want them by Thanksgiving.

The Beginning

To Introduce myself - I am Colorado Bound! (Almost)

Plans are in motion, and while they are about 4-5 months delayed -I am on the final countdown. I have selected a departure date... again... (Oct 23rd, 2007) that is too late in my mind, but medical wise it is too early. So we'll call it a compromise and hope it works out eh?

I have returned all foster kittens. I have quit my job (a 2nd time). This weekend I plan to repack/organize my boxes in the backyard and load them into my four wheel drive vehicle (which was recently inspected). I am in communication with Pet Transporter setting up a flight date of November 9th for my 3 cats. I am officially resting myself for the next week in preparation for this journey.

The 'in the air' issues right now is that I still await to hear from the clinic in Denver where I am trying to set up an appointment. Of course, knowing me, I lost the number and now must ask my doctor if he saved the number. I have an appointment with a 2nd opinion guy at Stanford on the 17th and then I plan to see my doctor one last time on the 23rd as I head out. All signs currently point to RELAPSE approaching, but I have hope that this can be turned around. I must beat the Colorado snow!

The Plan: I will begin driving on Oct 23rd. Destination: Georgetown, Colorado. Once there, I plan to rest. Then I will decide where I want to settle. Do I stay in Georgetown? Do I circle around some of the outside towns? Do I continue on toward Kansas? Whatever my decision, I will need to be in Denver around Nov 9 to pick up my cats from the airport and for that appointment that I will have awaiting me.

This blog is to keep everyone updated. Relatives, coworkers, friends (whom I never even keep in touch with - except Whitney), etc. My goodbyes - which at one point seemed huge in my life - no longer seem to matter seeing as a) I'm in a huge rush to beat the snow, and b) no one's really bothered to keep in touch with me either. So to my coworkers, I'll see you when I say goodbye to my babies. You all, I will truly miss. To old church friends - I most likely won't see you again. I do have a long overdue baby present which I will most likely mail or have Krys bring to church. To my relatives in Texas/Arkansas - I will soon be closer. California people, I will most likely see you when I visit in Dec '08 for the holidays. Medical persons - I most likely won't get the guts to give you all this link - but I will miss the regular visits. Now I have to go to a new lab, doctor's office, hospital, pharmacy ...where I will be completely unknown. What an odd feeling.

I will most likely not blog much before I leave, but while on the road I will blog from motels. Locations to be announced after I have departed for safety reasons. Assuming I find the charger for my camera- I may even take the time to post a few pictures (what a first).

I am off to begin my new life. New friends. New church. New job. New place. New medical route. My New Life.