I awoke to find 3 cases of Bibles on the porch. That's not uncommon for me. I give out my address, people buy them and ship them. They are confident their money went to Bibles, I distribute, the recipients get Bibles.
Probably my favorite time was when Biblica decided to put a ton of New Testaments on clearance, for a quarter each. I bought hundreds of them (with my money). I had cases all over the place. I think I have a photo of a stack of New Testaments taller than my head.
I still have a couple cases left, but I gave most of them away.
So, I brought in the Bibles. If you want to kill me with a mail bomb label it as Bibles and I will bring it right in the house and open it. However, Torbie got out. Here I am, wearing my lurid yellow bathrobe (that thing could blind Ron, if he wasn't blind already), chasing her all over the yard. I get her in the house. And bring in another case of Bibles, and she runs out again. I'm running around in my bare feet chasing her, she finally had mercy on me and went inside.
Next time I will put the cats in the bedroom before I bring in the Bibles.
Ron and I went out to breakfast. He didn't eat, he's on a diet. I had a hearty meal with some deliciously, perfectly, cooked bacon. We came home.
I got my stuff together, cart, bungees, and the Bibles. Unlike my usual Handout, I didn't bring the collapsible crate. The Bibles were already stored in their boxes and didn't need anything. The cases were heavy (I had 2 English and one Spanish), and it took a little maneuvering to get the cases stacked and strapped.
I got a water bottle for myself and my pink safety vest. Everyone at the FEMA center has an orange safety vest so I thought the pink would be original, and safe. I got my trusty sign and put that in my shoulder bag.
I keep Bibles in my hand, two whole Bibles is about my limit before my hand cramps. If someone wants more than 2, or Spanish, I dive into the shoulder bag and fish them out. It works well.
I've been doing this for 7.5 years.
So, everything is ready to go. I have my water bottle and I took my salt tablets. Ron called a cab. And no one came. No one came. Ron called again.
Finally, we got a call, the cab was coming. It was Mike. We know him pretty well. He showed up, surprised at my gear, and we loaded. I had to take the straps off the Bibles, on the cart, because it was way too heavy (almost 80 pounds) to lift into the vehicle.
He saw one of the Bibles, and admired it. I gave him one. He asked me where I got my Bibles. I explained (basically online), but told him Lifeway in Houston has a lot of nice evangelism Bibles for very low prices.
"I think I'll get some, and put them in the cab for people." He said. A cab is a great ministry opportunity, when you think about it. Lots of people, some of them at a reachable moment.
We went to the mall. They didn't have the big lines like they did the other day. I saw some people standing in line but they weren't near the shelter area. I decided to go to the nearest appropriate corner, "Northchase" and Greens Road. It was about a half mile from the shelter.
We unloaded at the bank, I got everything strapped again, paid Mike (no one works for free) and saw a Red Cross truck pull up. They were getting ready to serve a big meal to people down the road. I asked if I could go and they said I wasn't allowed in the truck (of course). I got the feeling I was supposed to be working Northchase anyway, so I went with that. The people wanting to go to the meal had to drive past me on my corner.
I set up. It was pretty slow, but some of the recipients were very interesting. One man had wildly dilated eyes, twitching in his seat, but he yelled "Free Bibles?" I went over and he asked for a couple. I gave them to him, wondering what he will think of them when he comes down. I smelled pot at least 4 times, and two of the smokers wanted Bibles.
At one point a woman stopped dead in the middle of the street, going the wrong way, to get a Bible. That happened several times. Usually, the car behind them began honking angrily. One time, the car behind didn't. I blew them a kiss and mouthed "Thank you". Then she got to me and wanted a Bible!
Spanish people were thrilled to get Bibles. Some of them wanted an English Bible for the kids, and a Spanish for themselves. I know enough Spanish to tell them I have Spanish, and "How many?"
I gave away over half the Spanish by the time I finished. In fact, after the handout, two recipients chased me down in their car, yelling for Bibles. I got them set up (This is why I never give "everything" away if I can help it, people tend to find me, after).
I saw a lot of cabs, one of whom actually gave me my ride home.
I mainly gave the Bibles out by twos. One guy wanted "As many as you've got" but the light changed and he left. I figured God would send him back if it was meant, but it didn't.
A couple people asked me for directions to the meal, and I pointed.
I had some pedestrians walk up on me and ask for Bibles. I had plenty more who just ignored me.
Most of the cars, I would say 95%, ignored me. No one laughed at me this time, though, at least not that I could see.
It was pretty hot, I drank all my water (a quart) and got a little wilty. A few minutes later a man said "You already gave us Bibles, we'd like to give you a bottle of water!" I took it.
I am a little baffled because I didn't give him Bibles today, it must have been a previous Handout.
I had a lot of young black men asking for Bibles, and some young black women. The rest were white (mixed men/women) and Spanish (mixed men/women). Some people had to open the door because the window didn't work.
I didn't see anyone who overtly looked like a flood victim but all the recipients were happy to get the Bibles.
I don't know how long I was out there, a couple of hours I think, but I gave away all the English Bibles (80 of them) and half-to-most of the Spanish (20-30).
After I finished, I went to the Jack in the Box. I got a shake and a drink. Ron called a cab. The cab computer put it out as a wheelchair trip. A Spanish guy about my age took it.
"Oh, yeah, I saw you on the corner" He asked about what I do. I told him "Do you have any Bibles left?" Yes, I do. I got him set.
We got home fast and he unloaded the cart. I threw away the cardboard (I think it is a bad witness to dispose of a lot of trash in a public trash can, when I can take it home), and came in the house.
All done.
Now, I am thinking about taking some Scripture Booklets to the next time they have long lines at the FEMA center, and hand those out to people in line. The booklet is very small and fits in a pocket. Not only that I think I have some Spanish (World Missionary Press sends them out for free).
While I am there, I can talk to the shelter people and see if I can bring some Bibles. The Red Cross man was very nice today and seemed interested in what I do, so they might let me.
Like my Dad always says "If you don't ask, the answer's always no."
Saturday, September 30, 2017
Friday, September 29, 2017
Private property
Yesterday we went to Sam's Club. I was able to find most of what I wanted, bought it, and met Chuck. Unlike Jack, Chuck always comes early.
But Jack is working 60 hours a week, plus additional overtime. We're lucky we get him at all. I had Chuck wait until 8, when the cart attendant usually comes in, but no one did.
That was not fun, putting the snacks in the truck. I found an employee and asked him to help, and he did. He did the hard work of putting up the soda. He wouldn't take a tip.
We went to work. Ron got in the truck bed and helped push the items to the tailgate. It may have angered his back, it is acting up today.
I got everything loaded onto the carts and into the building. We stocked, but we didn't have a lot of time. I didn't get a chance to do the pastry.
One of Ron's supervisors showed up. She did our quarterly review (we got 100%), and talked about a few things. She wanted me to take some stickers and put them on a item we have at home. I told her I would do that. And I did.
Then we went home.
I had hoped to take a nap, I was pretty exhausted, but #6 had hired someone to build a double-wide gate for his backyard, right outside my bedroom. Unlike the last bunch of "fence guys", he was quiet, there was only one man instead of a large gathering, and he didn't play a radio or talk loudly, like the other guys did.
But I still couldn't sleep.
I suppose he is doing this in case we flood again, he can put the cars in the backyard. Let's just hope he doesn't hit my house when he's doing that. I hope the doors open outward and not inward, I am worried they will scrape up my siding. I guess I will find out during their next party.
At least this man didn't park in front of my house, like all of #6's other service providers. We left and went to Denny's.
Paratransit wasn't going to give us long enough at the restaurant, so Ron decided to cancel our ride home and hire a cab instead. I didn't have a problem with that.
We had a good meal, Ron ate an omelette with no sides. He enjoyed it. Good, he needs the protein. I built a meal a la carte and had a good one.
Finished, we called for a cab, right as the skies opened up. It rained, very hard, for probably 45 minutes while Ron frantically called one cab after another. They were either away, busy with another client, or unavailable. Ron called Yellow, then called Yellow again when our first trip "disappeared". We finally got a ride.
The driver didn't help me with the wheelchair, but it was still raining. I folded it up and put it in the trunk, after Ron got in the cab.
We went home. It was now after 7. Biscuit was "starving". I fed them and went to bed.
This morning, I woke up pretty early. I ate, took my pills, did my God Time (the Bible reading portion), took my shower, shaved my legs, etc. Ron woke up and we went to work.
We saw incredibly long lines at the mall. Everyone is lining up for something. I don't know what, and I don't need it, whatever it is. I sure don't need that 6 hour wait in line for it, whatever it is. But I would love to get over there and do some evangelism. However, it's private property. I am pretty limited. I can go, but if they tell me to leave I have to do it.
One of my customers yelled at me, saying my machines were "always empty". I told her, "When someone says 'empty', generally they are thinking about one item." She told me she was upset we hadn't been stocking the pastry. I told her I had just stocked it and invited her to look. She said something (I believe) comparing us to the other vendors and left.
Other than that, it was a pretty uneventful day. The machines were basically full from my stock yesterday so I didn't need to do much (aside from pastry). I pulled the "bad codes" out of the food machine and ate one.
We receive sandwiches with a set "expiration" date, from the company. They send us a variety of sandwiches. We have to "get rid" of the sandwiches after the expiration date, which is always on a Friday. So I ate an Egg Salad, and brought home a couple for Ron.
Fast or no, if Ron has good food around he will eat it when he's drunk enough. So I brought home an "expired" chicken salad, and a hot dog. Ron wanted the hot dog, and I gave the chicken salad to the driver, who was happy to get it.
We hadn't seen the driver in a while. He is very ambitious. He is very money driven. I wouldn't date him but his commitment is interesting to watch. He was very interested in that handout over at the mall. He thinks an agency is handing out $500 debit cards, and he wants one.
We got home. I ate some peanut butter (cue: headache) and took my medication. I took a nap for a couple of hours.
Ron ate some popcorn. He won't eat protein, because he is fasting, but he will "waste" 40 carb grams on a bag of popcorn.
We now have 2 days off. In a row. It will be nice but I am wondering what to do regarding evangelism over at the mall.
I am also pretty hideously depressed and that just makes everything a lot harder.
Biscuit is stalking me for dinner. I will feed him in 50 minutes. He keeps putting his front end in my lap and meowing. I am teasing him, pulling back his lip to look at his tooth, stuff like that, playing with the fat belly, but he persists.
He keeps meowing and rubbing against the container of dry food. If I was heartless, I would cut out the dry food entirely and he would probably finish losing his weight. But, as it is, dry food is his big evening treat.
So I'll keep feeding it.
But Jack is working 60 hours a week, plus additional overtime. We're lucky we get him at all. I had Chuck wait until 8, when the cart attendant usually comes in, but no one did.
That was not fun, putting the snacks in the truck. I found an employee and asked him to help, and he did. He did the hard work of putting up the soda. He wouldn't take a tip.
We went to work. Ron got in the truck bed and helped push the items to the tailgate. It may have angered his back, it is acting up today.
I got everything loaded onto the carts and into the building. We stocked, but we didn't have a lot of time. I didn't get a chance to do the pastry.
One of Ron's supervisors showed up. She did our quarterly review (we got 100%), and talked about a few things. She wanted me to take some stickers and put them on a item we have at home. I told her I would do that. And I did.
Then we went home.
I had hoped to take a nap, I was pretty exhausted, but #6 had hired someone to build a double-wide gate for his backyard, right outside my bedroom. Unlike the last bunch of "fence guys", he was quiet, there was only one man instead of a large gathering, and he didn't play a radio or talk loudly, like the other guys did.
But I still couldn't sleep.
I suppose he is doing this in case we flood again, he can put the cars in the backyard. Let's just hope he doesn't hit my house when he's doing that. I hope the doors open outward and not inward, I am worried they will scrape up my siding. I guess I will find out during their next party.
At least this man didn't park in front of my house, like all of #6's other service providers. We left and went to Denny's.
Paratransit wasn't going to give us long enough at the restaurant, so Ron decided to cancel our ride home and hire a cab instead. I didn't have a problem with that.
We had a good meal, Ron ate an omelette with no sides. He enjoyed it. Good, he needs the protein. I built a meal a la carte and had a good one.
Finished, we called for a cab, right as the skies opened up. It rained, very hard, for probably 45 minutes while Ron frantically called one cab after another. They were either away, busy with another client, or unavailable. Ron called Yellow, then called Yellow again when our first trip "disappeared". We finally got a ride.
The driver didn't help me with the wheelchair, but it was still raining. I folded it up and put it in the trunk, after Ron got in the cab.
We went home. It was now after 7. Biscuit was "starving". I fed them and went to bed.
This morning, I woke up pretty early. I ate, took my pills, did my God Time (the Bible reading portion), took my shower, shaved my legs, etc. Ron woke up and we went to work.
We saw incredibly long lines at the mall. Everyone is lining up for something. I don't know what, and I don't need it, whatever it is. I sure don't need that 6 hour wait in line for it, whatever it is. But I would love to get over there and do some evangelism. However, it's private property. I am pretty limited. I can go, but if they tell me to leave I have to do it.
One of my customers yelled at me, saying my machines were "always empty". I told her, "When someone says 'empty', generally they are thinking about one item." She told me she was upset we hadn't been stocking the pastry. I told her I had just stocked it and invited her to look. She said something (I believe) comparing us to the other vendors and left.
Other than that, it was a pretty uneventful day. The machines were basically full from my stock yesterday so I didn't need to do much (aside from pastry). I pulled the "bad codes" out of the food machine and ate one.
We receive sandwiches with a set "expiration" date, from the company. They send us a variety of sandwiches. We have to "get rid" of the sandwiches after the expiration date, which is always on a Friday. So I ate an Egg Salad, and brought home a couple for Ron.
Fast or no, if Ron has good food around he will eat it when he's drunk enough. So I brought home an "expired" chicken salad, and a hot dog. Ron wanted the hot dog, and I gave the chicken salad to the driver, who was happy to get it.
We hadn't seen the driver in a while. He is very ambitious. He is very money driven. I wouldn't date him but his commitment is interesting to watch. He was very interested in that handout over at the mall. He thinks an agency is handing out $500 debit cards, and he wants one.
We got home. I ate some peanut butter (cue: headache) and took my medication. I took a nap for a couple of hours.
Ron ate some popcorn. He won't eat protein, because he is fasting, but he will "waste" 40 carb grams on a bag of popcorn.
We now have 2 days off. In a row. It will be nice but I am wondering what to do regarding evangelism over at the mall.
I am also pretty hideously depressed and that just makes everything a lot harder.
Biscuit is stalking me for dinner. I will feed him in 50 minutes. He keeps putting his front end in my lap and meowing. I am teasing him, pulling back his lip to look at his tooth, stuff like that, playing with the fat belly, but he persists.
He keeps meowing and rubbing against the container of dry food. If I was heartless, I would cut out the dry food entirely and he would probably finish losing his weight. But, as it is, dry food is his big evening treat.
So I'll keep feeding it.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
"People don't steal food, here"
I didn't sleep well last night and woke up depressed. I will say I didn't have a headache.
I had a problem. If you are squeamish you might want to skip the next little bit. **As I mentioned, I'm having my period. Since my flow had increased I went up on my absorbency.
Now, if you are a tampon user you know about the little knot at the end of the string. If I have trouble pulling out the tampon (didn't absorb enough), then I can slide my finger between the two strings, and pull on the knot to remove it.
However, this batch didn't have good knots in the string. When I pulled on it, the knot unravelled and I was stuck trying to remove a naughty tampon that didn't want to vacate. I didn't need this. Ron was asleep, or I might have recruited him, instead I took my shower.
After my shower I girded myself and tried giving the string a tug. It came right out. [sigh] Before I put in the next one, I checked the string, it was also almost unknotted, so I tightened it up and then inserted it.
I will have to tighten all my knots before I use these. Just a manufacturing problem. **
I got ready to leave. Ron woke up and got dressed.
Our ride arrived. Ron was immediately very unhappy as the air conditioner was on, loudly, the radio was turned up, and the GPS was set to maximum volume. The driver corrected the first two, when asked, but refused to turn down the GPS.
I felt bad for her as Ron embarked on a campaign of verbal abuse, threatening to call in a complaint (which affects their ability to get a raise); calling her "A blank" which was pretty clear, I thought. I was very uncomfortable, trapped between them.
When we disembarked, I suggested quietly that she might have a hearing problem, and "needed" to have the volume up. He scoffed at me and threatened to call in a report on her again, then called her a few names.
Why did we go to the Sam's club? Ron wanted to see if they had "all our stuff". They did not. They did have Big Red, which he said he needed, so I bought some. Then we had to wait an hour on our ride to work.
I bought some muffins because I was hungry, they were large blueberry muffins, not individually wrapped, in a clear plastic container. I ate two.
Our ride arrived. Ron complained because she was playing a Spanish radio station. She turned it off. I gave her a muffin. She ate it while driving us to work.
They were very good muffins.
We got to work and went inside. A lot of people were sitting around at lunch. Normally, I store our items on a table close to Snack 1 and 2. A couple were sitting there, though, so I didn't. I stored the muffins off to the side, next to Snack 2, partly under the vending machine so Ron wouldn't run over it with the wheelchair.
I went in the stockroom. I talked to the other vendor's employee for a couple minutes while I began my setup. I went out again. My muffins were gone. I asked the couple if they had seen someone take them.
The woman got very indignant "People don't steal food, here". I laughed at that. I know of at least 2 incidents where that did happen. Three if you count them robbing our stockroom.
"Nobody saw nuthin" so I went on about my day.
I stocked the machines and did my inventory. I had to make some things "work" and I didn't have time to do the pastry. Let them eat muffins.
We did it all and finally left. We went to the bank. The driver was nice. For once, Ron didn't have a complaint.
They are remodeling the bank. The business banking line was gone. They had us wait off to the side for a while, then helped us.
Flood insurance deposit made, we called our usual cabs. One was going to the doctor. One was going to court, hopefully not for a DUI!
Ron called Yellow Cab. They sent a very nice man who came very quickly. For once, Ron didn't have any complaints. We got home and unloaded.
I ate some peanut butter and took my pills. Then I took a nap. I slept pretty well, but when I woke up Ron was in cranky mode again, name calling, verbal abuse, doing everything he could to hurt me.
He got especially angry with me when Biscuit started begging for dinner. "You're starving him!" "You're fat and you've got him on a diet?" etc.
I did notice the water bowl was low, so I got him to move (he was in the kitchen, drinking vodka), and filled it. Then I fed Biscuit because he only had about 10 minutes anyway. I didn't tell Ron I was feeding the cats. I just did it. I gave them tuna (cat food) because I'm sure they don't like Ron's ugly any more than I do. I chose to be with him but they didn't, and it isn't fair to them.
By the way, at work, I mentioned leaving Ron and taking the cats. Ron got very upset. I don't know if it's his head injury, but he can't see cause = effect. He can't understand what he does to me has a direct effect on my willingness to stay.
My favorite was castigating me for my weight, for about 20 minutes. He had just weighed himself and came in at 150. He was very smug about it. So he's yelling at me, deriding me, about my weight, making really hateful comments: then he makes some popcorn and offers it to me, several times.
I really don't like popcorn. It gets stuck in my teeth. He wouldn't take "no" for an answer and kept insisting I eat some. I kept telling him no. He finally gave up.
I need to go to bed pretty soon so I can get up bright and early for our big inventory supply day with Chuck. I will have to do more work than I am accustomed to, Jack is really good about helping me. Chuck has some physical issues.
At any rate, tomorrow will be a sweaty and taxing day. I have a good deodorant, a good deodorant soap, and I may tie a bandana around my hair to control the frizziness.
We'll see.
Hopefully Ron will be in a better mood.
I had a problem. If you are squeamish you might want to skip the next little bit. **As I mentioned, I'm having my period. Since my flow had increased I went up on my absorbency.
Now, if you are a tampon user you know about the little knot at the end of the string. If I have trouble pulling out the tampon (didn't absorb enough), then I can slide my finger between the two strings, and pull on the knot to remove it.
However, this batch didn't have good knots in the string. When I pulled on it, the knot unravelled and I was stuck trying to remove a naughty tampon that didn't want to vacate. I didn't need this. Ron was asleep, or I might have recruited him, instead I took my shower.
After my shower I girded myself and tried giving the string a tug. It came right out. [sigh] Before I put in the next one, I checked the string, it was also almost unknotted, so I tightened it up and then inserted it.
I will have to tighten all my knots before I use these. Just a manufacturing problem. **
I got ready to leave. Ron woke up and got dressed.
Our ride arrived. Ron was immediately very unhappy as the air conditioner was on, loudly, the radio was turned up, and the GPS was set to maximum volume. The driver corrected the first two, when asked, but refused to turn down the GPS.
I felt bad for her as Ron embarked on a campaign of verbal abuse, threatening to call in a complaint (which affects their ability to get a raise); calling her "A blank" which was pretty clear, I thought. I was very uncomfortable, trapped between them.
When we disembarked, I suggested quietly that she might have a hearing problem, and "needed" to have the volume up. He scoffed at me and threatened to call in a report on her again, then called her a few names.
Why did we go to the Sam's club? Ron wanted to see if they had "all our stuff". They did not. They did have Big Red, which he said he needed, so I bought some. Then we had to wait an hour on our ride to work.
I bought some muffins because I was hungry, they were large blueberry muffins, not individually wrapped, in a clear plastic container. I ate two.
Our ride arrived. Ron complained because she was playing a Spanish radio station. She turned it off. I gave her a muffin. She ate it while driving us to work.
They were very good muffins.
We got to work and went inside. A lot of people were sitting around at lunch. Normally, I store our items on a table close to Snack 1 and 2. A couple were sitting there, though, so I didn't. I stored the muffins off to the side, next to Snack 2, partly under the vending machine so Ron wouldn't run over it with the wheelchair.
I went in the stockroom. I talked to the other vendor's employee for a couple minutes while I began my setup. I went out again. My muffins were gone. I asked the couple if they had seen someone take them.
The woman got very indignant "People don't steal food, here". I laughed at that. I know of at least 2 incidents where that did happen. Three if you count them robbing our stockroom.
"Nobody saw nuthin" so I went on about my day.
I stocked the machines and did my inventory. I had to make some things "work" and I didn't have time to do the pastry. Let them eat muffins.
We did it all and finally left. We went to the bank. The driver was nice. For once, Ron didn't have a complaint.
They are remodeling the bank. The business banking line was gone. They had us wait off to the side for a while, then helped us.
Flood insurance deposit made, we called our usual cabs. One was going to the doctor. One was going to court, hopefully not for a DUI!
Ron called Yellow Cab. They sent a very nice man who came very quickly. For once, Ron didn't have any complaints. We got home and unloaded.
I ate some peanut butter and took my pills. Then I took a nap. I slept pretty well, but when I woke up Ron was in cranky mode again, name calling, verbal abuse, doing everything he could to hurt me.
He got especially angry with me when Biscuit started begging for dinner. "You're starving him!" "You're fat and you've got him on a diet?" etc.
I did notice the water bowl was low, so I got him to move (he was in the kitchen, drinking vodka), and filled it. Then I fed Biscuit because he only had about 10 minutes anyway. I didn't tell Ron I was feeding the cats. I just did it. I gave them tuna (cat food) because I'm sure they don't like Ron's ugly any more than I do. I chose to be with him but they didn't, and it isn't fair to them.
By the way, at work, I mentioned leaving Ron and taking the cats. Ron got very upset. I don't know if it's his head injury, but he can't see cause = effect. He can't understand what he does to me has a direct effect on my willingness to stay.
My favorite was castigating me for my weight, for about 20 minutes. He had just weighed himself and came in at 150. He was very smug about it. So he's yelling at me, deriding me, about my weight, making really hateful comments: then he makes some popcorn and offers it to me, several times.
I really don't like popcorn. It gets stuck in my teeth. He wouldn't take "no" for an answer and kept insisting I eat some. I kept telling him no. He finally gave up.
I need to go to bed pretty soon so I can get up bright and early for our big inventory supply day with Chuck. I will have to do more work than I am accustomed to, Jack is really good about helping me. Chuck has some physical issues.
At any rate, tomorrow will be a sweaty and taxing day. I have a good deodorant, a good deodorant soap, and I may tie a bandana around my hair to control the frizziness.
We'll see.
Hopefully Ron will be in a better mood.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Time Call
Today's going to be short. 1. I'm depressed and 2. Not much happened today.
I woke up at 5 AM with a splitting headache. I know there is a hormonal component but ah! Killing me!
My cycle is still pretty light but I don't "trust" it. I expect the flood anytime now.
I took some Excedrin and went back to bed. The caffeine had me wide awake, tossing and turning, pretty shortly. I got up for a while on the computer, then went back to bed after a couple hours.
I slept another hour or so and got up at 9. Back on the computer and then I took a shower.
We were supposed to leave the house at 11. First I have to tell you about the pills.
Ron takes Neurontin for nerve pain in his legs. He is in excruciating pain if he does not take it. I ask him periodically if he needs a refill, and he kept telling me "I have a whole other bottle".
OK. Sunday he told me he couldn't find the other bottle, and he only had 8 pills left. Ensue all kinds of mayhem trying to get it refilled. Doc wouldn't do it because they said he should have another bottle. He couldn't find it. They told him he had better find it because they were not giving him any more.
He scheduled a paratransit trip from the house,to the doctor, and then to Walmart pharmacy. After that we would go out to lunch.
Well, after it was too late to change the trips he found the bottle of pills. He didn't need to go to the doctor or Walmart. He did, however, need a ride to the Denny's. We had a ride home, but not a ride there.
You can do something called a "Time call" with the cab company. Basically, you call them ahead of time (in Ron's case, the night before), and tell them "Come pick me up at 11", which is what he did.
However, they put it in as a subsidized cab trip. Drivers hate those trips because they have to fill out a lot of paperwork for the government and stand in a long line to get paid. Some drivers, like Lou, practically live on the fares, but most drivers detest them.
We didn't see our driver until 12. He said he kept seeing it come up and felt sorry for us. He took us to the restaurant. But Ron had to rearrange the pickup because we only would have had about 10 minutes.
This Denny's is not very efficient, especially at lunch time. We were going to need all the time we could get.
Ron didn't want to eat. They were out of Diet Coke so Ron got a regular one and barely sipped it. I got my build your own slam. I was bad and got pancakes with it, eggs, double bacon, and fruit salad. It was good. I offered Ron some bacon and he said no.
He just sat there bitching about how fat he had gotten. My headache came back. I ate some aspirin. I drank a couple glasses of unsweetened iced tea with pink stuff in it. I like the pink stuff.
We had a long wait on our ride, which, amusingly enough, turned out to be another private cab. They just hired him off the street to take us home. They could have sent him an hour ago, I told Ron, we didn't have to wait.
We got home around 3 (remember we were supposed to leave the house at 11) and I took a nap. I woke up with a much better head but pretty bad depression. I had taken my pills with lunch.
Tomorrow should be pretty busy so we will see. I am pretty tired so hopefully I will sleep OK tonight.
The cats are good. Baby Girl and Biscuit wanted to go out in the garage, so I let them, for a while. Then I let them back in. Baby Girl came right in but I had to pick Biscuit up. He had a good thing going on in there. He was all dusty. He probably loved it.
That's it for now.
Oh, good news, my Scripture Booklets, for Halloween, came in today. I am all set now except for snickers and plastic bags.
I woke up at 5 AM with a splitting headache. I know there is a hormonal component but ah! Killing me!
My cycle is still pretty light but I don't "trust" it. I expect the flood anytime now.
I took some Excedrin and went back to bed. The caffeine had me wide awake, tossing and turning, pretty shortly. I got up for a while on the computer, then went back to bed after a couple hours.
I slept another hour or so and got up at 9. Back on the computer and then I took a shower.
We were supposed to leave the house at 11. First I have to tell you about the pills.
Ron takes Neurontin for nerve pain in his legs. He is in excruciating pain if he does not take it. I ask him periodically if he needs a refill, and he kept telling me "I have a whole other bottle".
OK. Sunday he told me he couldn't find the other bottle, and he only had 8 pills left. Ensue all kinds of mayhem trying to get it refilled. Doc wouldn't do it because they said he should have another bottle. He couldn't find it. They told him he had better find it because they were not giving him any more.
He scheduled a paratransit trip from the house,to the doctor, and then to Walmart pharmacy. After that we would go out to lunch.
Well, after it was too late to change the trips he found the bottle of pills. He didn't need to go to the doctor or Walmart. He did, however, need a ride to the Denny's. We had a ride home, but not a ride there.
You can do something called a "Time call" with the cab company. Basically, you call them ahead of time (in Ron's case, the night before), and tell them "Come pick me up at 11", which is what he did.
However, they put it in as a subsidized cab trip. Drivers hate those trips because they have to fill out a lot of paperwork for the government and stand in a long line to get paid. Some drivers, like Lou, practically live on the fares, but most drivers detest them.
We didn't see our driver until 12. He said he kept seeing it come up and felt sorry for us. He took us to the restaurant. But Ron had to rearrange the pickup because we only would have had about 10 minutes.
This Denny's is not very efficient, especially at lunch time. We were going to need all the time we could get.
Ron didn't want to eat. They were out of Diet Coke so Ron got a regular one and barely sipped it. I got my build your own slam. I was bad and got pancakes with it, eggs, double bacon, and fruit salad. It was good. I offered Ron some bacon and he said no.
He just sat there bitching about how fat he had gotten. My headache came back. I ate some aspirin. I drank a couple glasses of unsweetened iced tea with pink stuff in it. I like the pink stuff.
We had a long wait on our ride, which, amusingly enough, turned out to be another private cab. They just hired him off the street to take us home. They could have sent him an hour ago, I told Ron, we didn't have to wait.
We got home around 3 (remember we were supposed to leave the house at 11) and I took a nap. I woke up with a much better head but pretty bad depression. I had taken my pills with lunch.
Tomorrow should be pretty busy so we will see. I am pretty tired so hopefully I will sleep OK tonight.
The cats are good. Baby Girl and Biscuit wanted to go out in the garage, so I let them, for a while. Then I let them back in. Baby Girl came right in but I had to pick Biscuit up. He had a good thing going on in there. He was all dusty. He probably loved it.
That's it for now.
Oh, good news, my Scripture Booklets, for Halloween, came in today. I am all set now except for snickers and plastic bags.
Monday, September 25, 2017
You can't get a wheelchair through a turnstile
Well, today was weird.
First, I have to explain that the "short buses" are gassed with diesel at the start of the route, and given enough fuel to last the whole day. They never need to use a gas station.
Our ride was late. Normally, I wouldn't have cared, but everyone on the van (2 passengers and the driver) had bags from my local gas station, opening snacks, full cups of coffee, etc. I wondered how long the "gang" had wasted at the gas station before they came to pick us up. An emergency toilet run, I can understand, a snack run, I don't.
Didn't they eat breakfast? They were (the other clients) well dressed, nice shoes, well-done and expensive hair, manicures, etc. They also clearly had enough money for the snacks, which aren't cheap, at the gas station.
They asked us where we were going and we told them to work. They kind of paused when we said that.
The driver asked if I had "Got (my) $400 yet." I know someone, I think the Red Cross (after all the bad publicity) was handing out debit cards but I don't need one. Don't get me wrong, I only make about $600 a month after my health insurance, but I am not taking taxpayer money just because it's there. Or donor money. "Give it to someone who really needs it" I replied.
Over the course of the ride, the driver proceeded to ask very rude and intrusive questions. How much money I made "Enough". The cost of our mortgage. Why did Ron and I have separate bedrooms? Did we still have sex? I couldn't believe that one. How long we were going to spend at work, etc. It just went on and on. I haven't had someone that rude in a long time. Ron kept answering her questions, otherwise I would have said something.
The driver disobeyed the GPS directions because she didn't like the freeway feeder road, and took a very long road around. She didn't know where she was going, I understand that.
As it turns out, she was going to a new FEMA shelter they set up at "Gunspoint" mall. It is a dying mall and has a lot of retail space. They converted that to shelter space.
As it turns out, they were accepting applications for disaster food stamps. The other 2 clients wanted to apply. They took one look at the line (the driver kept driving, and driving, down the line, it kept roping around, getting longer and longer, until we finally found the end. Perhaps 300 people in line for the food stamps.
The client took one look at it and decided she didn't want the food stamps after all. "My next ride is coming at 9:30!" she cried "I won't even be inside by then!" You thought it would be easy? They are handing out what seems to be "free" foodstamps to half of North Houston and you thought it would take an hour?
Now me, if I was going to apply for food stamps, I would not get my hair and nails done, and I would wear my most ragged clothing. But that's just me.
We dropped the client off anyway, she would have to call dispatch for a ride home. I hope they made her wait for her 9:30 ride.
When we went to drop her off, a volunteer in an orange vest insisted we were there to pick up someone from the shelter. He got on the van and held the door open. He kept demanding her van number, which was written on the side of the van in foot-high numerals. I told him. "Oh, you're not for her." Yeah, that's what we told you! He apologized and got off the vehicle.
We left them and went to work. We were, by now, very late for work. As it turns out we actually spent more time on the van than we did at work.
On the way to work: Why don't I have foodstamps? Because I have enough to eat. Too much! I patted my belly. The driver outweighed me by 100 pounds. No foodstamps? I must like to cook, then. Not really. Agh. I was so glad when we got to work.
They had a bunch of tape and stuff all over the security door for us (the other doors are turnstiles, but you can't get a wheelchair through a turnstile). In a pinch, we could use the Americans with Disabilities act: equal access for Ron in his wheelchair.
I got in there. Thank God snacks looked OK. I helped Ron with sodas. I got the sandwiches. They had taken the police tape down. I stocked them. I did a little bit of snacks.
Then, time to go. I meant it when I told you we spent more time on the van.
Ron has finally, finally, gotten to understand we cannot have a 7 AM pickup. 1. The neighbors are doing their whole "off to school" thing and their friends block our driveway. 2. The rides are always late. 3. The traffic is terrible. Hopefully he has grasped that now. We will just have to get up earlier.
We left. Our ride to go home was a little late but not too bad. I felt a little weird sitting out front.
3 weeks ago, a girl at work (in her 20's) left work and was not seen again. As it turns out,someone murdered her. I believe her boys' father. When she went missing for so long I figured she had to be dead. What mother leaves a baby and a 5 year old for that long, willingly? Well, mine, but that's another story. This lady sounded like a devoted mother.
So it was a little weird waiting outside, but safe. They have a ton of security cameras. That may be how they caught her killer (he is in custody).
We had a straight ride home with a nice driver who did not play "100 intrusive questions". I'm surprised the first one didn't ask us what sex positions we liked, etc. Ron probably would have told her! [laugh]
We got home, I ate and took my pills, then took a nap. I was pretty beat.
I had a pretty good nap; no cats but I managed.
Baby Girl smacked Biscuit today for using "her" litter box. He got pee on his back leg as a result. Poor baby. I yelled at Baby Girl. She is very dominant with the other cats.
I have plenty of boxes, though. 4 total.
I need to figure out a Bible handout. It was so hopeless over by the FEMA shelter I think I should try going there, but they may not let me. I can understand that. I will figure something out.
That's it for now.
First, I have to explain that the "short buses" are gassed with diesel at the start of the route, and given enough fuel to last the whole day. They never need to use a gas station.
Our ride was late. Normally, I wouldn't have cared, but everyone on the van (2 passengers and the driver) had bags from my local gas station, opening snacks, full cups of coffee, etc. I wondered how long the "gang" had wasted at the gas station before they came to pick us up. An emergency toilet run, I can understand, a snack run, I don't.
Didn't they eat breakfast? They were (the other clients) well dressed, nice shoes, well-done and expensive hair, manicures, etc. They also clearly had enough money for the snacks, which aren't cheap, at the gas station.
They asked us where we were going and we told them to work. They kind of paused when we said that.
The driver asked if I had "Got (my) $400 yet." I know someone, I think the Red Cross (after all the bad publicity) was handing out debit cards but I don't need one. Don't get me wrong, I only make about $600 a month after my health insurance, but I am not taking taxpayer money just because it's there. Or donor money. "Give it to someone who really needs it" I replied.
Over the course of the ride, the driver proceeded to ask very rude and intrusive questions. How much money I made "Enough". The cost of our mortgage. Why did Ron and I have separate bedrooms? Did we still have sex? I couldn't believe that one. How long we were going to spend at work, etc. It just went on and on. I haven't had someone that rude in a long time. Ron kept answering her questions, otherwise I would have said something.
The driver disobeyed the GPS directions because she didn't like the freeway feeder road, and took a very long road around. She didn't know where she was going, I understand that.
As it turns out, she was going to a new FEMA shelter they set up at "Gunspoint" mall. It is a dying mall and has a lot of retail space. They converted that to shelter space.
As it turns out, they were accepting applications for disaster food stamps. The other 2 clients wanted to apply. They took one look at the line (the driver kept driving, and driving, down the line, it kept roping around, getting longer and longer, until we finally found the end. Perhaps 300 people in line for the food stamps.
The client took one look at it and decided she didn't want the food stamps after all. "My next ride is coming at 9:30!" she cried "I won't even be inside by then!" You thought it would be easy? They are handing out what seems to be "free" foodstamps to half of North Houston and you thought it would take an hour?
Now me, if I was going to apply for food stamps, I would not get my hair and nails done, and I would wear my most ragged clothing. But that's just me.
We dropped the client off anyway, she would have to call dispatch for a ride home. I hope they made her wait for her 9:30 ride.
When we went to drop her off, a volunteer in an orange vest insisted we were there to pick up someone from the shelter. He got on the van and held the door open. He kept demanding her van number, which was written on the side of the van in foot-high numerals. I told him. "Oh, you're not for her." Yeah, that's what we told you! He apologized and got off the vehicle.
We left them and went to work. We were, by now, very late for work. As it turns out we actually spent more time on the van than we did at work.
On the way to work: Why don't I have foodstamps? Because I have enough to eat. Too much! I patted my belly. The driver outweighed me by 100 pounds. No foodstamps? I must like to cook, then. Not really. Agh. I was so glad when we got to work.
They had a bunch of tape and stuff all over the security door for us (the other doors are turnstiles, but you can't get a wheelchair through a turnstile). In a pinch, we could use the Americans with Disabilities act: equal access for Ron in his wheelchair.
I got in there. Thank God snacks looked OK. I helped Ron with sodas. I got the sandwiches. They had taken the police tape down. I stocked them. I did a little bit of snacks.
Then, time to go. I meant it when I told you we spent more time on the van.
Ron has finally, finally, gotten to understand we cannot have a 7 AM pickup. 1. The neighbors are doing their whole "off to school" thing and their friends block our driveway. 2. The rides are always late. 3. The traffic is terrible. Hopefully he has grasped that now. We will just have to get up earlier.
We left. Our ride to go home was a little late but not too bad. I felt a little weird sitting out front.
3 weeks ago, a girl at work (in her 20's) left work and was not seen again. As it turns out,someone murdered her. I believe her boys' father. When she went missing for so long I figured she had to be dead. What mother leaves a baby and a 5 year old for that long, willingly? Well, mine, but that's another story. This lady sounded like a devoted mother.
So it was a little weird waiting outside, but safe. They have a ton of security cameras. That may be how they caught her killer (he is in custody).
We had a straight ride home with a nice driver who did not play "100 intrusive questions". I'm surprised the first one didn't ask us what sex positions we liked, etc. Ron probably would have told her! [laugh]
We got home, I ate and took my pills, then took a nap. I was pretty beat.
I had a pretty good nap; no cats but I managed.
Baby Girl smacked Biscuit today for using "her" litter box. He got pee on his back leg as a result. Poor baby. I yelled at Baby Girl. She is very dominant with the other cats.
I have plenty of boxes, though. 4 total.
I need to figure out a Bible handout. It was so hopeless over by the FEMA shelter I think I should try going there, but they may not let me. I can understand that. I will figure something out.
That's it for now.
A lot about my bills
I have some time before work so I'll cram in a post.
I started my cycle last night. Not a big deal, normally, but during the Hurricane/flood I had some drama with my cycle. Days of light spotting, then WHAM a very heavy flow when I did not expect it.
So I am doubling up on my protection, a pad and a tampon. I feel kind of "stifled" but this menopause (?) business is nothing to fool with. I haven't been surprised like that since my teens. This month, actually, makes 30 years. Say 11 a year, 330 cycles. That's a lot of products!
Ron always teases me and says I could take that "four periods a year" stuff but I believe it is contraindicated, like most oral birth control, for obese, middle-aged, women with a strong family history (both parents and two grandparents) of heart disease. I'm fine with that.
After all, it has to come to an end, sometime, right?
I slept pretty well last night. I kept waking up thirsty but that is pretty normal for me. I drink about 2 quarts of water every night, and get up a couple times to urinate. That's the medication. Too much or not enough water, and I'm in big trouble. But better too much than not enough.
It's humid out. Ron's been running the air conditioner a lot. He got a new pricing plan so the electricity costs about half what it used to, running about $70 a month so far in the dead of summer. This month will probably be about $70, also. We won't find out for another week or so.
The only problem with the electricity, we have to go to the "payment center" to pay it. Ron made a mistake paying with his checking account on the phone, and it declined. Apparently, when it declines a payment you are no longer allowed to use that payment method EVER again. It's not a big deal, I think, but it bothers him sometimes.
He's already prepaid the gas so we won't have to pay on that until probably November/December, depending on the weather.
In the summer, we keep the thermostat around 80 degrees. Most Houstonians would shudder at that. They like it more like 65, but I am not wearing a sweater in my own home, in the summer, and paying for it. That's just stupid. I like it about 80.
In the winter, we keep it more about 70 degrees. It is still nice and toasty, but not too hot, or expensive. The gas is pretty cheap, generally. It runs about $100 a month in the winter, plus maybe $50 for the electricity to run the fan blowers and stuff. During the summer it is about $20 a month,and most of that is just the connection fee.
The water bill costs about $25-$30 a month. We use about 2,000 gallons of water a month. Our garbage pickup (about $15) is included in the bill.
That covers pretty much all our utilities. Of course we have homeowners insurance, taxes (plenty of those), Homeowners association fee (not too bad), flood insurance (we're about to pay that, this week), and I feel I'm forgetting something else.
As homeowners, if something breaks it is on us to fix it. So we do.
The cats are doing well today. Biscuit was just in here, scratching on his cardboard scratcher. Baby Girl was first at the food when I served it up, this morning. Tuna Feast. Torbie has been around, in and out, but playing aloof.
I just hope they are all happy living with me. They seem to be, but it's hard to tell.
I started my cycle last night. Not a big deal, normally, but during the Hurricane/flood I had some drama with my cycle. Days of light spotting, then WHAM a very heavy flow when I did not expect it.
So I am doubling up on my protection, a pad and a tampon. I feel kind of "stifled" but this menopause (?) business is nothing to fool with. I haven't been surprised like that since my teens. This month, actually, makes 30 years. Say 11 a year, 330 cycles. That's a lot of products!
Ron always teases me and says I could take that "four periods a year" stuff but I believe it is contraindicated, like most oral birth control, for obese, middle-aged, women with a strong family history (both parents and two grandparents) of heart disease. I'm fine with that.
After all, it has to come to an end, sometime, right?
I slept pretty well last night. I kept waking up thirsty but that is pretty normal for me. I drink about 2 quarts of water every night, and get up a couple times to urinate. That's the medication. Too much or not enough water, and I'm in big trouble. But better too much than not enough.
It's humid out. Ron's been running the air conditioner a lot. He got a new pricing plan so the electricity costs about half what it used to, running about $70 a month so far in the dead of summer. This month will probably be about $70, also. We won't find out for another week or so.
The only problem with the electricity, we have to go to the "payment center" to pay it. Ron made a mistake paying with his checking account on the phone, and it declined. Apparently, when it declines a payment you are no longer allowed to use that payment method EVER again. It's not a big deal, I think, but it bothers him sometimes.
He's already prepaid the gas so we won't have to pay on that until probably November/December, depending on the weather.
In the summer, we keep the thermostat around 80 degrees. Most Houstonians would shudder at that. They like it more like 65, but I am not wearing a sweater in my own home, in the summer, and paying for it. That's just stupid. I like it about 80.
In the winter, we keep it more about 70 degrees. It is still nice and toasty, but not too hot, or expensive. The gas is pretty cheap, generally. It runs about $100 a month in the winter, plus maybe $50 for the electricity to run the fan blowers and stuff. During the summer it is about $20 a month,and most of that is just the connection fee.
The water bill costs about $25-$30 a month. We use about 2,000 gallons of water a month. Our garbage pickup (about $15) is included in the bill.
That covers pretty much all our utilities. Of course we have homeowners insurance, taxes (plenty of those), Homeowners association fee (not too bad), flood insurance (we're about to pay that, this week), and I feel I'm forgetting something else.
As homeowners, if something breaks it is on us to fix it. So we do.
The cats are doing well today. Biscuit was just in here, scratching on his cardboard scratcher. Baby Girl was first at the food when I served it up, this morning. Tuna Feast. Torbie has been around, in and out, but playing aloof.
I just hope they are all happy living with me. They seem to be, but it's hard to tell.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Cod, Sole, and Shrimp
So, yesterday I woke up at 4 AM, on my anniversary no less (worked my anniversary last year, too). I got ready and we left for Sam's Club.
Ron had given me a list of things we needed to buy for his side of the business. I have my own, mental, list for my side of things. I couldn't find half the things on either list.
Ron was most unhappy. We need these things for work. He called the other Sam's and they had his stuff.
When Jack came, Ron begged him to take us to the other store so we could "finish". He also offered Jack a considerable bonus. Jack said OK.
Off we went, to the other store. When I got there I found Ron's stuff already sitting on a flatbed, waiting to be bought. Ron had asked me to add 2 more Cokes to the cart, so I did. On my way to find the carts I found some things I needed for snacks. I threw those in with the rest.
Ron texted me. He was having hysterics over me "taking time" to buy the other stuff. I explained I was in line behind a woman who was buying, literally, 3 things. I was next, then I would come out. Ron calmed down.
I paid, went out, and we loaded the truck. We barely had enough room but we made it. I had Ron call in a compliment for Store #2.
We went to work. We had a long time unloading it all but we got it.
Snacks looked terrible, so I got Ron started on his stuff and then I stocked. Happily, I had enough inventory to really stock things right. It took me a while, but I got it.
It helped that Mars had produced a variety box of candy, several different bars, several of each, in an assorted box for 57 cents a bar. I sell them for $1 each, that's set in our contract, so we almost make a profit there.
Ron stayed busy with the soda end of things. I can see why new people doubt he is blind. It's funny, either is is not blind, and faking it, because he does "too much for a blind person"; or he is a helpless blind baby who should have been kept at home the day of the accident, even though he walked to work every day for 30 years.
Anyway, this is about my anniversary. Since we spent extra time going to get the second load, I had Ron delay our pickup for a while.
He warned me it meant I would not get a nap. I knew that.
We finally finished and went home. I had enough time to lie down for half an hour before we left.
We went to the BBQ place. Ron did his "I'm fasting" thing and only ate a little BBQ beef. I ate a hamburger and had a slice of pie, it's my 25th wedding anniversary. I will probably not see a 50th (Ron would be 87). We had good rides to and from, nice drivers.
We came home. I was exhausted. I texted my parents I would call them tomorrow and I went straight to bed.
I slept pretty well last night. I woke up at 7 today, because Ron wanted to take me to Walmart. He is concerned about his weight (he has gained 5-10 pounds) so he doesn't want to eat out anymore. He wants me to eat at home, only. I told him I can do that but I needed a trip to Walmart to get some food.
He did that. "We" had about an hour. Ron waited up front while I did the shopping. He did want cat treats for the cats. While I was on the cat food aisle, I bought a few new "fishy" cans of cat food. My gang seem to like the fishy stuff.
[Side note, when I got home, I fed it to them "Cod, Sole, and Shrimp Feast" - they all loved it. I will have to get more.]
I also got some more Tuna Feast because Torbie loves that. So do the other 2.
For me, I got some apples, fruit in juice, sliced meat (not really paleo but an easy dinner), etc. I got a great cashier who was nice about ringing me up. A lot of the cashiers hate the reusable bags and get an attitude, but she didn't. She was very nice.
We had about a 15 minute wait on our ride. He is a fun guy, I had a good time kidding around with him. I told him Ron was my love slave. The driver looked a little nauseated.
We got home and Ron wanted to eat in the kitchen. That was fine but I had to wait on him to do that, then do his drinking ritual.
You may be interested in that. He takes a drink off the vodka bottle, spits it into a shot glass. Whatever is left is spit back into the vodka bottle. Then he drinks the shot glass. Next he has a cold bottle of water. He takes a drink off that.
Biscuit keeps getting into my lap, begging for dinner. He's pretty cute.
I'm trying to teach him not to use his claws when he puts his front end in my lap. I am happy to have him sit there and pet him, as long as he isn't digging into me.
He is getting better about that.
When I could, I put away my food, and then I took a nap. The neighbor dogs went crazy barking a couple of times, there must be a loose dog running around. They woke me up a couple of times.
I finally got up, checked my computer. One contentious thread involving the use of psych medication has finally been closed down.
I can't believe people really want "us" running around unmedicated. It just boggles me.
At any rate, aside from that things have been quiet.
I need to clean the litterboxes, call my parents, and then I can go to bed. I assume tomorrow will be another 4 AM pickup, assuming Ron remembered to call it in. I hope so.
At any rate, that's it for now.
Ron had given me a list of things we needed to buy for his side of the business. I have my own, mental, list for my side of things. I couldn't find half the things on either list.
Ron was most unhappy. We need these things for work. He called the other Sam's and they had his stuff.
When Jack came, Ron begged him to take us to the other store so we could "finish". He also offered Jack a considerable bonus. Jack said OK.
Off we went, to the other store. When I got there I found Ron's stuff already sitting on a flatbed, waiting to be bought. Ron had asked me to add 2 more Cokes to the cart, so I did. On my way to find the carts I found some things I needed for snacks. I threw those in with the rest.
Ron texted me. He was having hysterics over me "taking time" to buy the other stuff. I explained I was in line behind a woman who was buying, literally, 3 things. I was next, then I would come out. Ron calmed down.
I paid, went out, and we loaded the truck. We barely had enough room but we made it. I had Ron call in a compliment for Store #2.
We went to work. We had a long time unloading it all but we got it.
Snacks looked terrible, so I got Ron started on his stuff and then I stocked. Happily, I had enough inventory to really stock things right. It took me a while, but I got it.
It helped that Mars had produced a variety box of candy, several different bars, several of each, in an assorted box for 57 cents a bar. I sell them for $1 each, that's set in our contract, so we almost make a profit there.
Ron stayed busy with the soda end of things. I can see why new people doubt he is blind. It's funny, either is is not blind, and faking it, because he does "too much for a blind person"; or he is a helpless blind baby who should have been kept at home the day of the accident, even though he walked to work every day for 30 years.
Anyway, this is about my anniversary. Since we spent extra time going to get the second load, I had Ron delay our pickup for a while.
He warned me it meant I would not get a nap. I knew that.
We finally finished and went home. I had enough time to lie down for half an hour before we left.
We went to the BBQ place. Ron did his "I'm fasting" thing and only ate a little BBQ beef. I ate a hamburger and had a slice of pie, it's my 25th wedding anniversary. I will probably not see a 50th (Ron would be 87). We had good rides to and from, nice drivers.
We came home. I was exhausted. I texted my parents I would call them tomorrow and I went straight to bed.
I slept pretty well last night. I woke up at 7 today, because Ron wanted to take me to Walmart. He is concerned about his weight (he has gained 5-10 pounds) so he doesn't want to eat out anymore. He wants me to eat at home, only. I told him I can do that but I needed a trip to Walmart to get some food.
He did that. "We" had about an hour. Ron waited up front while I did the shopping. He did want cat treats for the cats. While I was on the cat food aisle, I bought a few new "fishy" cans of cat food. My gang seem to like the fishy stuff.
[Side note, when I got home, I fed it to them "Cod, Sole, and Shrimp Feast" - they all loved it. I will have to get more.]
I also got some more Tuna Feast because Torbie loves that. So do the other 2.
For me, I got some apples, fruit in juice, sliced meat (not really paleo but an easy dinner), etc. I got a great cashier who was nice about ringing me up. A lot of the cashiers hate the reusable bags and get an attitude, but she didn't. She was very nice.
We had about a 15 minute wait on our ride. He is a fun guy, I had a good time kidding around with him. I told him Ron was my love slave. The driver looked a little nauseated.
We got home and Ron wanted to eat in the kitchen. That was fine but I had to wait on him to do that, then do his drinking ritual.
You may be interested in that. He takes a drink off the vodka bottle, spits it into a shot glass. Whatever is left is spit back into the vodka bottle. Then he drinks the shot glass. Next he has a cold bottle of water. He takes a drink off that.
Biscuit keeps getting into my lap, begging for dinner. He's pretty cute.
I'm trying to teach him not to use his claws when he puts his front end in my lap. I am happy to have him sit there and pet him, as long as he isn't digging into me.
He is getting better about that.
When I could, I put away my food, and then I took a nap. The neighbor dogs went crazy barking a couple of times, there must be a loose dog running around. They woke me up a couple of times.
I finally got up, checked my computer. One contentious thread involving the use of psych medication has finally been closed down.
I can't believe people really want "us" running around unmedicated. It just boggles me.
At any rate, aside from that things have been quiet.
I need to clean the litterboxes, call my parents, and then I can go to bed. I assume tomorrow will be another 4 AM pickup, assuming Ron remembered to call it in. I hope so.
At any rate, that's it for now.
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Friday, September 22, 2017
Free Lunch
Ron asked me where I wanted to go, yesterday. Rather, yesterday, he asked me where I wanted to go, today.
I told him Denny's. About 20 years ago I went to Denny's for a free birthday breakfast and I was pretty sure they still did them.
I slept OK last night, but woke up with another headache. A family member tells me she had horrible pms headaches while she had her cycle. The week before her period was particularly bad. I think there's some merit in that. I think it's probably that.
Of course my recent cheats haven't helped, either.
So, I got up at 3 and took 3 aspirin. I went back to bed and slept fitfully until I woke up around 7. I got up, took my shower, did some Bible Study, got on the computer, etc.
I am amazed people still don't understand the differences in psych meds. One medication is not another. If one doesn't work for you another probably will. That's like refusing to take an antibiotic because aspirin didn't help a headache. Totally different.
Of course I always get that one person who says I am sharing too much, go hide in my closet, etc. I won't do that because people need to know you can win at mental illness.
Ron woke up and got dressed. He is still "fasting". This morning he was lecturing me I need to stop eating out. Excuse me, you're the one who wants to do that. I am happy to eat at home if you run me to Walmart for some supplies first. He agreed he will do that.
Our ride was late, and didn't follow the directions on her GPS, so we ended up going way out of the way to get there. We finally arrived around lunchtime.
It was pretty busy. I was happy for them, the restaurant needs to be busy to stay in business, but it is hard to get refills, etc.
I explained it was my birthday and asked if they had a special menu for that. She said no, but I could get anything on the "Build your own Slam" menu. I am very well acquainted with that menu. She left after bringing us drinks (Ron at least had a diet Coke). I ordered scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage (had I been honest with myself I would have gotten double bacon), pancakes, and "I know I have to pay for it, but" fruit salad.
I ate. It was good. I couldn't finish the fruit salad, I will have it for breakfast tomorrow.
Our ride was going to be late, so Ron called and had them fix it. They knew he was a wheelchair.
The bill came, $13. I took some money, and my ID card, up the front, to pay. $5.60. I paid. We left a good tip (on the $13, not the $5), on the table. I got a container for my fruit salad.
Our ride arrived. We went out. He is a real fun loving, semi-crazy, African guy. I like him a lot. He is a real character and doesn't let things get him down.
We had another pickup before we went home, and when we got there, they had an ambulatory client, and one in a wheelchair. The wheelchair cab only holds one wheelchair in the back. The other client managed to get out, and got into the vehicle (it was a little nervy, though, she wasn't stable at all), sitting in the backseat with her husband and Ron. Then the driver folded up both wheelchairs and put them in the back compartment. I gave the driver a hard time about "Giving us the wrong wheelchair" when we got home. He said he would give us the wrong one "Because you are fat and you need a bigger one, sir". I told you the guy was a nut. Ron is maybe 160, and had told the driver about the fasting thing. I still find that funny.
We got home. The driver asked if I could get him a bottle of water, I said sure. I got one. When I got out he had pushed Ron all the way up the garage. Ron was in the right wheelchair. So we were good.
I rolled him in the house. I had taken my medication with lunch so I was fine in that regard.
I decided to take a nap. But the poor little dogs next door kept going yap, yap, yap. Allow me to relate their conditions when outside. They are in a run, about 2 feet high, 2 feet wide, maybe 10-15 feet long. The run is made of metal. The top is covered with some sort of fabric, presumably to keep the sun off the dogs. The dogs are left outside in this run for 12 hours at a time. They are some sort of longhaired lap dogs, covered in mats, at least the one I met.
Will I ever have a neighbor dog that isn't neglected and abused? So, I don't blame the dogs for yapping, they have nothing else to do, but it does get old when I am trying to sleep. They woke me up a couple of times.
I remember I had a dream, I was trying to get home from work, in a beautiful city. The city had lovely blue and lavender building lights and I felt very safe. It had great public transit. I have had dreams about this city for a while now, I think it's an analogy for heaven. I remember thinking "This is so much better than Texas", and I love, adore, my Houston.
I woke up after that, feeling good. I checked my phone, I had heard some text message tones. I had one from the transit company (I signed up for alerts) and one from my aunt, who has been busy with grandchildren. Her family is lucky to have her.
Ron is still asleep. I asked him, nicely, to please moderate his drinking on today of all days. He acted as though he has never been ugly when drinking.
Oh, and Biscuit has come by to remind me: I celebrated the cats' birthdays, too, today. I gave them a bonus scoop of dry food with breakfast this morning. They went nuts, they love dry food. They will also get a scoop (as usual) with dinner. They won't be losing any weight today.
Torbie slept in the kitty condo next to my bed while I napped today, she was very cute. Baby Girl meowed and showed me her spotted tummy when I came in the house earlier, she is pretty cute!
I have some pints of ice cream in the freezer. I just need to decide if I want the pink camo ice cream, or the cookie two step, for my treat. I am thinking cookie two step. It has oreos and cookie dough.
Tomorrow my mini-vacation is at an end; we go to Sam's and buy inventory, then go to work and stock it. I hope Ron called in the trips, it's after 5.
At any rate, that's it for now. Have a good one! (((Hugs)))
I told him Denny's. About 20 years ago I went to Denny's for a free birthday breakfast and I was pretty sure they still did them.
I slept OK last night, but woke up with another headache. A family member tells me she had horrible pms headaches while she had her cycle. The week before her period was particularly bad. I think there's some merit in that. I think it's probably that.
Of course my recent cheats haven't helped, either.
So, I got up at 3 and took 3 aspirin. I went back to bed and slept fitfully until I woke up around 7. I got up, took my shower, did some Bible Study, got on the computer, etc.
I am amazed people still don't understand the differences in psych meds. One medication is not another. If one doesn't work for you another probably will. That's like refusing to take an antibiotic because aspirin didn't help a headache. Totally different.
Of course I always get that one person who says I am sharing too much, go hide in my closet, etc. I won't do that because people need to know you can win at mental illness.
Ron woke up and got dressed. He is still "fasting". This morning he was lecturing me I need to stop eating out. Excuse me, you're the one who wants to do that. I am happy to eat at home if you run me to Walmart for some supplies first. He agreed he will do that.
Our ride was late, and didn't follow the directions on her GPS, so we ended up going way out of the way to get there. We finally arrived around lunchtime.
It was pretty busy. I was happy for them, the restaurant needs to be busy to stay in business, but it is hard to get refills, etc.
I explained it was my birthday and asked if they had a special menu for that. She said no, but I could get anything on the "Build your own Slam" menu. I am very well acquainted with that menu. She left after bringing us drinks (Ron at least had a diet Coke). I ordered scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage (had I been honest with myself I would have gotten double bacon), pancakes, and "I know I have to pay for it, but" fruit salad.
I ate. It was good. I couldn't finish the fruit salad, I will have it for breakfast tomorrow.
Our ride was going to be late, so Ron called and had them fix it. They knew he was a wheelchair.
The bill came, $13. I took some money, and my ID card, up the front, to pay. $5.60. I paid. We left a good tip (on the $13, not the $5), on the table. I got a container for my fruit salad.
Our ride arrived. We went out. He is a real fun loving, semi-crazy, African guy. I like him a lot. He is a real character and doesn't let things get him down.
We had another pickup before we went home, and when we got there, they had an ambulatory client, and one in a wheelchair. The wheelchair cab only holds one wheelchair in the back. The other client managed to get out, and got into the vehicle (it was a little nervy, though, she wasn't stable at all), sitting in the backseat with her husband and Ron. Then the driver folded up both wheelchairs and put them in the back compartment. I gave the driver a hard time about "Giving us the wrong wheelchair" when we got home. He said he would give us the wrong one "Because you are fat and you need a bigger one, sir". I told you the guy was a nut. Ron is maybe 160, and had told the driver about the fasting thing. I still find that funny.
We got home. The driver asked if I could get him a bottle of water, I said sure. I got one. When I got out he had pushed Ron all the way up the garage. Ron was in the right wheelchair. So we were good.
I rolled him in the house. I had taken my medication with lunch so I was fine in that regard.
I decided to take a nap. But the poor little dogs next door kept going yap, yap, yap. Allow me to relate their conditions when outside. They are in a run, about 2 feet high, 2 feet wide, maybe 10-15 feet long. The run is made of metal. The top is covered with some sort of fabric, presumably to keep the sun off the dogs. The dogs are left outside in this run for 12 hours at a time. They are some sort of longhaired lap dogs, covered in mats, at least the one I met.
Will I ever have a neighbor dog that isn't neglected and abused? So, I don't blame the dogs for yapping, they have nothing else to do, but it does get old when I am trying to sleep. They woke me up a couple of times.
I remember I had a dream, I was trying to get home from work, in a beautiful city. The city had lovely blue and lavender building lights and I felt very safe. It had great public transit. I have had dreams about this city for a while now, I think it's an analogy for heaven. I remember thinking "This is so much better than Texas", and I love, adore, my Houston.
I woke up after that, feeling good. I checked my phone, I had heard some text message tones. I had one from the transit company (I signed up for alerts) and one from my aunt, who has been busy with grandchildren. Her family is lucky to have her.
Ron is still asleep. I asked him, nicely, to please moderate his drinking on today of all days. He acted as though he has never been ugly when drinking.
Oh, and Biscuit has come by to remind me: I celebrated the cats' birthdays, too, today. I gave them a bonus scoop of dry food with breakfast this morning. They went nuts, they love dry food. They will also get a scoop (as usual) with dinner. They won't be losing any weight today.
Torbie slept in the kitty condo next to my bed while I napped today, she was very cute. Baby Girl meowed and showed me her spotted tummy when I came in the house earlier, she is pretty cute!
I have some pints of ice cream in the freezer. I just need to decide if I want the pink camo ice cream, or the cookie two step, for my treat. I am thinking cookie two step. It has oreos and cookie dough.
Tomorrow my mini-vacation is at an end; we go to Sam's and buy inventory, then go to work and stock it. I hope Ron called in the trips, it's after 5.
At any rate, that's it for now. Have a good one! (((Hugs)))
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Garageland (for the cats)
I didn't sleep well last night. One of my teeth was aching to the point I put on some numbing gel.
It's fine today.
I also woke up with a headache. It rained today so that could be a factor, the headache did get better after it rained.
I got up and took my shower. I decided not to shave my legs. It's my day off, they aren't that bad, and I was wearing my long jeans anyway.
We went to Walmart. Ron wasn't happy about it but I needed to get some things: Halloween candy, canned food, some grapes, etc. I also needed some Vitamin E. I am a big fan of Vitamin E, and with my family's history of heart disease I had better be taking it.
I had just enough time to make my deposit for my crappy health insurance, and run to McDonald's, before our cab came.
We came home, I put away the cold stuff (ice cream, for tomorrow, I won't have cake but I can have ice cream), and took a nap. I did sleep pretty well in spite of the rain. It rained pretty hard for a while but I enjoyed it.
A lot of people in Houston discovered undiscovered roof leaks during Harvey. 50" of rain in a couple of days will expose all of that. In addition to getting a new roof, they had to get new drywall and one person had to buy a new bed. It's not just flood water that got people. I don't know anyone who flooded. But I know plenty who had leaks.
I'm glad I have a good roof and I will definitely use the same company again when it's time. I am guessing the insurance company will make us change it out before we start having leaks.
I got up, I wasn't really hungry but I ate some chips. Ron woke up. He was OK for a while but has been drinking all day. He isn't ugly tonight.
Baby Girl and Biscuit begged to go out in the garage, so I let them. The door is down, they can't get out, so they'll be fine. It's an interesting place for them so let them enjoy it.
I plan to go to bed early after I get the cats back.
Tomorrow is my birthday. I plan to celebrate Biscuit and Baby Girl's birthdays, too. What does a cat want? They want extra food. So I will be feeding them lots of dry food, in addition to their two cans of wet.
We are also (Ron and I) going out for breakfast.
Oh, I'm tired.
It's fine today.
I also woke up with a headache. It rained today so that could be a factor, the headache did get better after it rained.
I got up and took my shower. I decided not to shave my legs. It's my day off, they aren't that bad, and I was wearing my long jeans anyway.
We went to Walmart. Ron wasn't happy about it but I needed to get some things: Halloween candy, canned food, some grapes, etc. I also needed some Vitamin E. I am a big fan of Vitamin E, and with my family's history of heart disease I had better be taking it.
I had just enough time to make my deposit for my crappy health insurance, and run to McDonald's, before our cab came.
We came home, I put away the cold stuff (ice cream, for tomorrow, I won't have cake but I can have ice cream), and took a nap. I did sleep pretty well in spite of the rain. It rained pretty hard for a while but I enjoyed it.
A lot of people in Houston discovered undiscovered roof leaks during Harvey. 50" of rain in a couple of days will expose all of that. In addition to getting a new roof, they had to get new drywall and one person had to buy a new bed. It's not just flood water that got people. I don't know anyone who flooded. But I know plenty who had leaks.
I'm glad I have a good roof and I will definitely use the same company again when it's time. I am guessing the insurance company will make us change it out before we start having leaks.
I got up, I wasn't really hungry but I ate some chips. Ron woke up. He was OK for a while but has been drinking all day. He isn't ugly tonight.
Baby Girl and Biscuit begged to go out in the garage, so I let them. The door is down, they can't get out, so they'll be fine. It's an interesting place for them so let them enjoy it.
I plan to go to bed early after I get the cats back.
Tomorrow is my birthday. I plan to celebrate Biscuit and Baby Girl's birthdays, too. What does a cat want? They want extra food. So I will be feeding them lots of dry food, in addition to their two cans of wet.
We are also (Ron and I) going out for breakfast.
Oh, I'm tired.
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Dinner with Chuck
Ron woke up, acted like nothing had happened. I don't think he even remembered the night before. He acted like "we" were going to dinner so I didn't get into it with him.
I took a nap, had a pretty good one, and got up around 2:30. Around 3:10, I asked Ron when Chuck was coming. Ron said 3:45. Ron let me know he had an alarm set so he'd have time to get ready.
Baby Girl had some more mats. I managed to clean those up for her, I was able to pretty much just pull them out without hurting her. She looked a lot better when I finished.
I was ready when Chuck pulled up, Ron wasn't. I took out 3 empty vodka bottles and brought in the garbage can. Ron was ready by then.
I took the bag off the back of the wheelchair and left the umbrella at home. I loaded Ron into the truck (a Ford F-150) and put the wheelchair in the truck bed.
Off we went. We had some traffic because school had just gotten out. We arrived at the restaurant. They always have a nice flock of pigeons outside, I like pigeons.
I pushed Ron inside while Chuck parked and then we waited for Chuck to come into the building. He did and we were seated.
We had a pretty uneventful dinner. I cried a little when they played the song "She's in love with the boy". It is very sad to me, now.
I mentioned that we needed to get Torbie on "Intervention" for her treat addiction, and Chuck replied "No, we need to get RON signed up!"
"I did" I replied "They were very interested but my aunt and uncle wouldn't go on camera." I also think the program wanted me working on my own, living away from Ron, or at least able to do that quickly. Since I couldn't do that they turned us down.
I didn't get into all of that but Chuck was quiet for a while (don't forget Chuck is normally the one who buys Ron his vodka, Ron pays him to do it plus a little extra). We ate our steaks, they were good.
Ron got fried onion on top of his. No thanks. I had already eaten some peanut butter and taken my pills, hours ago, so I didn't have to worry about getting sick.
For whatever reason, lithium + friends don't like steak, I always get horribly sick. I had a salad, and a baked sweet potato with butter, in addition to my steak. It (the steak) was kind of a funny shape, almost like the State of Texas. I felt a little odd eating "Texas". But it was good. I always get my steak medium. My Dad and his Mom always liked their steak well done, almost burnt. I prefer a more tender and juicy steak.
We finished our meals. Ron put most of his food in a takeout container. I got dessert, a brownie thing with a large scoop of ice cream. I ate most of the brownie and about half the ice cream.
The way I saw it, it was my 25th anniversary dinner; and my birthday dinner as well. So I justified a cheat.
After we finished we went home. Ron got into the leftovers. I fed the cats. Biscuit was upset because I was "late". I gave him a little extra to apologize ([whispering] Don't tell the vet).
Ron went to bed. Baby Girl wanted to go out in the garage. I don't mind letting her out if we're not about to leave. It is an interesting place, full of unusual smells and experiences. Let her have some fun. I don't know what our living situation will be like in a few months so she might as well enjoy the whole house while we can.
I will let her in later.
I'm going to bed now so I will talk to you tomorrow. Have a good one.
I took a nap, had a pretty good one, and got up around 2:30. Around 3:10, I asked Ron when Chuck was coming. Ron said 3:45. Ron let me know he had an alarm set so he'd have time to get ready.
Baby Girl had some more mats. I managed to clean those up for her, I was able to pretty much just pull them out without hurting her. She looked a lot better when I finished.
I was ready when Chuck pulled up, Ron wasn't. I took out 3 empty vodka bottles and brought in the garbage can. Ron was ready by then.
I took the bag off the back of the wheelchair and left the umbrella at home. I loaded Ron into the truck (a Ford F-150) and put the wheelchair in the truck bed.
Off we went. We had some traffic because school had just gotten out. We arrived at the restaurant. They always have a nice flock of pigeons outside, I like pigeons.
I pushed Ron inside while Chuck parked and then we waited for Chuck to come into the building. He did and we were seated.
We had a pretty uneventful dinner. I cried a little when they played the song "She's in love with the boy". It is very sad to me, now.
I mentioned that we needed to get Torbie on "Intervention" for her treat addiction, and Chuck replied "No, we need to get RON signed up!"
"I did" I replied "They were very interested but my aunt and uncle wouldn't go on camera." I also think the program wanted me working on my own, living away from Ron, or at least able to do that quickly. Since I couldn't do that they turned us down.
I didn't get into all of that but Chuck was quiet for a while (don't forget Chuck is normally the one who buys Ron his vodka, Ron pays him to do it plus a little extra). We ate our steaks, they were good.
Ron got fried onion on top of his. No thanks. I had already eaten some peanut butter and taken my pills, hours ago, so I didn't have to worry about getting sick.
For whatever reason, lithium + friends don't like steak, I always get horribly sick. I had a salad, and a baked sweet potato with butter, in addition to my steak. It (the steak) was kind of a funny shape, almost like the State of Texas. I felt a little odd eating "Texas". But it was good. I always get my steak medium. My Dad and his Mom always liked their steak well done, almost burnt. I prefer a more tender and juicy steak.
We finished our meals. Ron put most of his food in a takeout container. I got dessert, a brownie thing with a large scoop of ice cream. I ate most of the brownie and about half the ice cream.
The way I saw it, it was my 25th anniversary dinner; and my birthday dinner as well. So I justified a cheat.
After we finished we went home. Ron got into the leftovers. I fed the cats. Biscuit was upset because I was "late". I gave him a little extra to apologize ([whispering] Don't tell the vet).
Ron went to bed. Baby Girl wanted to go out in the garage. I don't mind letting her out if we're not about to leave. It is an interesting place, full of unusual smells and experiences. Let her have some fun. I don't know what our living situation will be like in a few months so she might as well enjoy the whole house while we can.
I will let her in later.
I'm going to bed now so I will talk to you tomorrow. Have a good one.
The speech
Last night I got "the speech" from Ron about how he would probably have a blackout, he didn't mean anything, etc. I am going to tell him he can't give me the speech any more. It's a game.
"I'm going to shit all over you, and you can't do anything about it, I could prevent this, but I won't, and then I'm going to insult you by telling you I love you."
So he got drunk. At first he was OK. He knew I was on the computer and started yelling he wanted me to look up the "Bad Command". Then he said it was the "Vaca Vein". I told him I couldn't understand him and I was going to bed. He started cursing me out.
I had insulted him, wounded him so deeply, he said, by failing to understand (his gibberish), he called me a bitch, he called me fat, he said he wasn't going out to dinner today. Narcissistic head games. I told myself that and didn't react. I didn't react to anything he said or did, I learned that lesson many years ago, don't give an abuser any ammunition to use against you. He started cursing me again. I told him, silently, a demon was using him as a puppet. I mentally asked Ron how he liked having a demon up his @ss. He went to bed and fell asleep.
I was pretty wound up up I fell asleep eventually. I found it ironic that he kept going on about Chuck taking me out to dinner and how he (Ron) would pay for it. I am trying not to be hurt that my own husband doesn't want to go to my birthday/our anniversary dinner. Why does Ron keep shoving me at Chuck? What script in his head says I have to run off and leave Ron? I know Ron's ex girlfriend ran off with his (at the time) best friend. They stole a lot of money from his business, too.
Even if I were a cheater, and I'm not, I would not be interested in Chuck. He is older than Ron, even, almost my Dad's age. He is not born again. I could go on but you get the idea.
Not interested. And I really don't want to go to dinner with him, alone. I am happy paying him to help me take a cat to the vet or run an errand, but that's as far as I'll go. I am happy to go out to dinner with Ron and Chuck but it is just weird to go out with Chuck only, for my anniversary dinner.
Like I said, not interested. But Ron has it in his head I will run off with Chuck. Ron even got drunk one time and told Chuck some VERY personal medical information of mine (I won't even share it here) to "deter his interest". I'm sure it had the desired effect, but Ron had no right to do that.
I have talked to Ron about what I share here. He knows I share everything. He has told me, more than once, he doesn't have a problem with that. The only thing I didn't do is put up those photos of the bloody kitchen and hallway after he fell off his walker (drunk) last year. I think he asked me not to do it, so I obliged. In exchange, I told Ron he could no longer drink while sitting on his walker, because he falls, a lot, when he does. "You don't want to wake up in an emergency room" I told him, and he agreed.
But I would never share information like that without his consent.
I didn't sleep well, last night. I finally woke up at 2 AM and decided to run the dryer. The dryer is on the same circuit as the A/C and I worry about blowing a fuse. It is easier to run the dryer when the A/C is not running at all. So I turned it on for an hour and made sure I turned the buzzer to "off". It was mainly a load of socks and underwear, so it didn't matter if they sat in the dryer for a while after it finished. When I got up, everything was dry.
I slept fitfully but I think I got enough rest. I was certainly awake around 7:30. I got up, finished the clothes, ate, took my meds, etc.
I am pretty greasy because I didn't take my shower yesterday, but I plan to take it next, and then do my God time.
Ron is awake, I think Baby Girl had something to do with that. She likes to get up on the bed with him and lie down on his left leg. She is kneading and purring the bed, flopped against him, having a good time.
I reminded her I fed her, but she doesn't care. She has a special love for Ron and is happy to cuddle him. I wish she did that with me, but she won't. She's a very particular cat.
And so the drama begins. I will update.
"I'm going to shit all over you, and you can't do anything about it, I could prevent this, but I won't, and then I'm going to insult you by telling you I love you."
So he got drunk. At first he was OK. He knew I was on the computer and started yelling he wanted me to look up the "Bad Command". Then he said it was the "Vaca Vein". I told him I couldn't understand him and I was going to bed. He started cursing me out.
I had insulted him, wounded him so deeply, he said, by failing to understand (his gibberish), he called me a bitch, he called me fat, he said he wasn't going out to dinner today. Narcissistic head games. I told myself that and didn't react. I didn't react to anything he said or did, I learned that lesson many years ago, don't give an abuser any ammunition to use against you. He started cursing me again. I told him, silently, a demon was using him as a puppet. I mentally asked Ron how he liked having a demon up his @ss. He went to bed and fell asleep.
I was pretty wound up up I fell asleep eventually. I found it ironic that he kept going on about Chuck taking me out to dinner and how he (Ron) would pay for it. I am trying not to be hurt that my own husband doesn't want to go to my birthday/our anniversary dinner. Why does Ron keep shoving me at Chuck? What script in his head says I have to run off and leave Ron? I know Ron's ex girlfriend ran off with his (at the time) best friend. They stole a lot of money from his business, too.
Even if I were a cheater, and I'm not, I would not be interested in Chuck. He is older than Ron, even, almost my Dad's age. He is not born again. I could go on but you get the idea.
Not interested. And I really don't want to go to dinner with him, alone. I am happy paying him to help me take a cat to the vet or run an errand, but that's as far as I'll go. I am happy to go out to dinner with Ron and Chuck but it is just weird to go out with Chuck only, for my anniversary dinner.
Like I said, not interested. But Ron has it in his head I will run off with Chuck. Ron even got drunk one time and told Chuck some VERY personal medical information of mine (I won't even share it here) to "deter his interest". I'm sure it had the desired effect, but Ron had no right to do that.
I have talked to Ron about what I share here. He knows I share everything. He has told me, more than once, he doesn't have a problem with that. The only thing I didn't do is put up those photos of the bloody kitchen and hallway after he fell off his walker (drunk) last year. I think he asked me not to do it, so I obliged. In exchange, I told Ron he could no longer drink while sitting on his walker, because he falls, a lot, when he does. "You don't want to wake up in an emergency room" I told him, and he agreed.
But I would never share information like that without his consent.
I didn't sleep well, last night. I finally woke up at 2 AM and decided to run the dryer. The dryer is on the same circuit as the A/C and I worry about blowing a fuse. It is easier to run the dryer when the A/C is not running at all. So I turned it on for an hour and made sure I turned the buzzer to "off". It was mainly a load of socks and underwear, so it didn't matter if they sat in the dryer for a while after it finished. When I got up, everything was dry.
I slept fitfully but I think I got enough rest. I was certainly awake around 7:30. I got up, finished the clothes, ate, took my meds, etc.
I am pretty greasy because I didn't take my shower yesterday, but I plan to take it next, and then do my God time.
Ron is awake, I think Baby Girl had something to do with that. She likes to get up on the bed with him and lie down on his left leg. She is kneading and purring the bed, flopped against him, having a good time.
I reminded her I fed her, but she doesn't care. She has a special love for Ron and is happy to cuddle him. I wish she did that with me, but she won't. She's a very particular cat.
And so the drama begins. I will update.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Everything against that
Last night I read the insert on my lithium. Have you ever gotten a prescription and they give you the insert for the medical professionals? They show the chemical formula, how it's metabolized, all that good stuff. Normally I can figure them out, but I have never gotten one for the lithium.
Last refill, I did. I got 3 inserts because I take 360 capsules in 90 days, so they gave me 3 whole bottles and one partial. They just gave me the manufacturer bottle they sell to the pharmacy, instead of putting it in *their* bottle like they usually do.
Anyway, I noticed that sleeping a lot, and fatigue, were specifically mentioned. If I didn't know other medications were just as bad, reading the lithium insert would have freaked me out. But it's fine to take as long as you eat enough salt and have a doctor monitor your blood tests 1x a year.
I woke up feeling exhausted, after Ron's alarm went off. Ooops. No shower for me, I only had 20 minutes. I ate my fruit cocktail (I found out it works with my Wellbutrin in the morning) and drank my Diet Mountain Dew, after I got dressed.
We went to work. The driver said he was picking up two other women on the way to work, so Ron would be in the back with them. I asked how big they were and he said about my size. I told Ron he had better ride in the back (wheelchair compartment) because two women my size + him would be way too crowded. Ron agreed but the driver didn't seem to excited. I attributed that to the fact that drivers hate strapping down a client in a wheelchair.
He did that and we went. We picked up the first client. We picked up the second client. We dropped the second client (we have ridden with her, off and on, for years). Then it was our turn and we went to work.
Ron was riding in a minivan with a gate in the back. You open the gate/door, and unfold the ramp. Unstrap Ron and roll him out on the ramp. Except the door wouldn't open. The driver ended up crawling over the backseat, into the wheelchair compartment, to use the manual release (I think). Once I saw the door handle moving I opened it from the outside. He got Ron out, and I noted the cab number so Ron could call and ask them to please repair it.
I was really glad we had gotten it open as I rolled Ron inside, and he said he needed to use the bathroom. That would have been pretty bad if he'd been stuck.
Sales were dead. I noticed they have a Harvey relief team apparently getting the mail back on track. The plant was closed for days due to the flooding; everything around work flooded so the trucks couldn't get in and out. Or the Postal Workers, which is why they raided my stockroom, another story.
We filled what we could but I spent a lot of time sitting down watching the president speak on TV. I have always thought I am glad I don't have kids; now I'm glad because they would be military age, and I wouldn't want them going off to war in some godforsaken hellhole. That's also a reason I'm glad I married Ron, he would never get called up, especially now. Yes, I am petty, selfish, and probably unAmerican for saying all this.
We went home. Ron rode in the backseat, and the door to the wheelchair compartment worked properly. I took a nap.
We were going to the taqueria later. Ron decided to get drunk and got into the vodka. He was quiet.
I had some odd dreams but woke up in time, this time. I got up, got dressed, set up my pills in my little portable container. I found a small, 1.5 inch diameter jar at Walmart. I think it is designed for traveling with skin cream. It is only about an inch or two deep. It is great for holding my pills.
I know they sell little baggies for medication, but I had one come open in my pocket. I had to pick my Haldol out of my pocket lint. It was frustrating because my hands were shaking at the time (lithium side effect; I know one of Doc's medical students got so excited when she "caught" me). The baggies don't work, so I go with the little jar. It is easy to open and works for me. I keep it in my fannypack.
I donned my flip flops and woke Ron up. He got ready. He was in a very sour, depressed, mood. He won't realize that alcohol is the ultimate depressant. If you take a depressed person (Ron) and give them alcohol, it makes them far worse, which is why a lot of drunk people commit suicide.
Anthony came to get us. I like him a lot, he's a very bright, intelligent, nice, man. He likes gospel rap, too.
His route has him working our area a lot so we see him frequently. It's always fun to ride with him.
We went to the taqueria. Ron got a beer and said he didn't want any food, he is fasting, because he is "fat" (his waist went up a few inches). He lost weight back in 2008 (if you are interested in digging up old blogs, Sept/October), due to not eating because his flavors were messed up from an allergic reaction to an antibiotic.
Ron lost a lot of weight (about 90 pounds) after his accident because he couldn't eat and was on tube feedings, then he literally couldn't chew and swallow much food, so he kept losing. He doesn't remember that of course, but he does think the "only" way to lose weight is to either kill himself on the exercise bike (we have an old one), or starve himself. He doesn't want to use the exercise bike so he is starving himself.
So he sat there, brooding, drinking a beer (I know!) while I ate part of a quesadilla and two small tacos. They were good, I got some veggies (authentic taqueria tacos only have lettuce and tomato), and some good "fajita" meat. I had a good time in spite of him.
Paratransit was going to leave us there "too long" so Ron cancelled the ride home and called a cab when I finished. He was nice to the driver; treated the cats, drank some vodka, and went to bed.
So that's that. He has been very ugly about our anniversary and my birthday coming up "It's just another day, you're so immature, why do you care" etc. I am trying to celebrate, in spite of a mild depression, and he is doing everything against that. It has been hard.
Biscuit and Baby Girl got their dinner (they are always first to the plate, literally), Torbie will eat later. The cats have been good today, Baby Girl met us both times we came home.
Baby Girl always meets us at the door, she's very faithful. Fickle Torbie won't come unless we have treats but Baby Girl is always there with a soft meow. She's pretty inside and out, but not very cuddly. She doesn't mind petting, but will never get in my lap or my bed, and she doesn't like being picked up. Torbie likes to sleep with Ron, and sleep next to my bed in her kitty condo, and Biscuit will climb into my bed, in the mornings, occasionally, for a cuddle. He will also occasionally join me during a nap. They're good babies.
I plan to go to bed early so I'll go.
Tomorrow I need to do up my pills, run a load of clothes in the dryer, and go out to my anniversary dinner with Ron. Ron actually suggested Chuck and I go out to dinner together and leave Ron at home. Yet, when he gets drunk, Ron accuses me of cheating with Chuck.
Talk about mixed messages.
Last refill, I did. I got 3 inserts because I take 360 capsules in 90 days, so they gave me 3 whole bottles and one partial. They just gave me the manufacturer bottle they sell to the pharmacy, instead of putting it in *their* bottle like they usually do.
Anyway, I noticed that sleeping a lot, and fatigue, were specifically mentioned. If I didn't know other medications were just as bad, reading the lithium insert would have freaked me out. But it's fine to take as long as you eat enough salt and have a doctor monitor your blood tests 1x a year.
I woke up feeling exhausted, after Ron's alarm went off. Ooops. No shower for me, I only had 20 minutes. I ate my fruit cocktail (I found out it works with my Wellbutrin in the morning) and drank my Diet Mountain Dew, after I got dressed.
We went to work. The driver said he was picking up two other women on the way to work, so Ron would be in the back with them. I asked how big they were and he said about my size. I told Ron he had better ride in the back (wheelchair compartment) because two women my size + him would be way too crowded. Ron agreed but the driver didn't seem to excited. I attributed that to the fact that drivers hate strapping down a client in a wheelchair.
He did that and we went. We picked up the first client. We picked up the second client. We dropped the second client (we have ridden with her, off and on, for years). Then it was our turn and we went to work.
Ron was riding in a minivan with a gate in the back. You open the gate/door, and unfold the ramp. Unstrap Ron and roll him out on the ramp. Except the door wouldn't open. The driver ended up crawling over the backseat, into the wheelchair compartment, to use the manual release (I think). Once I saw the door handle moving I opened it from the outside. He got Ron out, and I noted the cab number so Ron could call and ask them to please repair it.
I was really glad we had gotten it open as I rolled Ron inside, and he said he needed to use the bathroom. That would have been pretty bad if he'd been stuck.
Sales were dead. I noticed they have a Harvey relief team apparently getting the mail back on track. The plant was closed for days due to the flooding; everything around work flooded so the trucks couldn't get in and out. Or the Postal Workers, which is why they raided my stockroom, another story.
We filled what we could but I spent a lot of time sitting down watching the president speak on TV. I have always thought I am glad I don't have kids; now I'm glad because they would be military age, and I wouldn't want them going off to war in some godforsaken hellhole. That's also a reason I'm glad I married Ron, he would never get called up, especially now. Yes, I am petty, selfish, and probably unAmerican for saying all this.
We went home. Ron rode in the backseat, and the door to the wheelchair compartment worked properly. I took a nap.
We were going to the taqueria later. Ron decided to get drunk and got into the vodka. He was quiet.
I had some odd dreams but woke up in time, this time. I got up, got dressed, set up my pills in my little portable container. I found a small, 1.5 inch diameter jar at Walmart. I think it is designed for traveling with skin cream. It is only about an inch or two deep. It is great for holding my pills.
I know they sell little baggies for medication, but I had one come open in my pocket. I had to pick my Haldol out of my pocket lint. It was frustrating because my hands were shaking at the time (lithium side effect; I know one of Doc's medical students got so excited when she "caught" me). The baggies don't work, so I go with the little jar. It is easy to open and works for me. I keep it in my fannypack.
I donned my flip flops and woke Ron up. He got ready. He was in a very sour, depressed, mood. He won't realize that alcohol is the ultimate depressant. If you take a depressed person (Ron) and give them alcohol, it makes them far worse, which is why a lot of drunk people commit suicide.
Anthony came to get us. I like him a lot, he's a very bright, intelligent, nice, man. He likes gospel rap, too.
His route has him working our area a lot so we see him frequently. It's always fun to ride with him.
We went to the taqueria. Ron got a beer and said he didn't want any food, he is fasting, because he is "fat" (his waist went up a few inches). He lost weight back in 2008 (if you are interested in digging up old blogs, Sept/October), due to not eating because his flavors were messed up from an allergic reaction to an antibiotic.
Ron lost a lot of weight (about 90 pounds) after his accident because he couldn't eat and was on tube feedings, then he literally couldn't chew and swallow much food, so he kept losing. He doesn't remember that of course, but he does think the "only" way to lose weight is to either kill himself on the exercise bike (we have an old one), or starve himself. He doesn't want to use the exercise bike so he is starving himself.
So he sat there, brooding, drinking a beer (I know!) while I ate part of a quesadilla and two small tacos. They were good, I got some veggies (authentic taqueria tacos only have lettuce and tomato), and some good "fajita" meat. I had a good time in spite of him.
Paratransit was going to leave us there "too long" so Ron cancelled the ride home and called a cab when I finished. He was nice to the driver; treated the cats, drank some vodka, and went to bed.
So that's that. He has been very ugly about our anniversary and my birthday coming up "It's just another day, you're so immature, why do you care" etc. I am trying to celebrate, in spite of a mild depression, and he is doing everything against that. It has been hard.
Biscuit and Baby Girl got their dinner (they are always first to the plate, literally), Torbie will eat later. The cats have been good today, Baby Girl met us both times we came home.
Baby Girl always meets us at the door, she's very faithful. Fickle Torbie won't come unless we have treats but Baby Girl is always there with a soft meow. She's pretty inside and out, but not very cuddly. She doesn't mind petting, but will never get in my lap or my bed, and she doesn't like being picked up. Torbie likes to sleep with Ron, and sleep next to my bed in her kitty condo, and Biscuit will climb into my bed, in the mornings, occasionally, for a cuddle. He will also occasionally join me during a nap. They're good babies.
I plan to go to bed early so I'll go.
Tomorrow I need to do up my pills, run a load of clothes in the dryer, and go out to my anniversary dinner with Ron. Ron actually suggested Chuck and I go out to dinner together and leave Ron at home. Yet, when he gets drunk, Ron accuses me of cheating with Chuck.
Talk about mixed messages.
Monday, September 18, 2017
A lot about Biscuit, for his fans.
I'll talk about Biscuit first. He is the gray and white cat with the left eyepatch and gray tail. He is a big boy, at 16 pounds, and very sweet.
He's pretty smart. He has figured out dinnertime is 6PM. OK. But he wants dinner at 5, so he comes to me as I sit in my computer chair. I'm seated in a folding chair with the CPU to my left. Biscuit comes in to the right, sits next to my right foot, and meows. Then he periodically puts his paws on top of my right thigh to remind me he's hungry. If he gets really impatient, he digs his claws into my skin, but for obvious reasons I discourage that. I tell him how many minutes he has left, like a toddler "28 minutes" "14 minutes" and talk to him as he meows and pats his feet on top of my thigh.
I didn't sleep well last night. When I got up I headed to the shower. I began. Biscuit popped his little gray/white head into the enclosure and meowed at me. I talked to him, and he left.
When I got out of the shower, I found Biscuit curled up on the tub mat, waiting for me. He had waited outside the shower while I finished.
Torbie has a new habit, too. She likes to run across the foot of the bed and jump onto her kitty condo right next to the bed.
When it comes to feeding, Biscuit and Baby Girl go first, then Torbie, after they've left. It's the same everytime.
Torbie likes the tuna cat food the best, the other two don't care.
So, I got dressed and ready for work. Our ride was late and traffic was awful. I told Ron we can't do anymore 7 AM pickups, besides, we had trouble with families doing the "drop off" next door (#6 runs some kind of shuttle bus for their own kids, plus some other families, to the charter school), and blocking our driveway.
Why does everyone want to block my driveway?
We finally got to work. I barely got started when Andy, the Sandwich guy, called. I ran out and got the delivery, then stocked it.
Ron was demanding the use of my handcart, I had snacks on it for stocking but I "let" him. I had to roll the cart around, take things on and off, etc., but he did the stocking.
It's 5 PM and here's Biscuit, pawing at my leg. "One hour" I told him. He is rubbing his face against my shin.
Once Ron finished with his work, I finished mine. I had some limited options for stocking so I did what I could, and put a lot of my core items. It wasn't terribly fancy or "planorific" (a planogram is a merchandise layout) but it will suffice until I can get some more merchandise.
From what I hear, the Frito Lay plant in Rosenberg flooded, one reason I haven't been able to get a lot of my things.
Biscuit's up to purring, front paws on my thigh. He knows if he's cute enough, I just might feed him early. He gets so excited over his dry food he tries to eat it out of the scoop.
So we did it all at work, finished up, and went outside. We waited outside in the sun for a while, until our driver arrived.
He took us to the bank. We counted the money at the bank, we don't like to do that, but we had to do it. One guy was paying a little too much attention, but when he caught me watching him "back"he stopped. Besides, we were counting $1 bills. It's not like they were fifties.
We finally finished up and got into line. One guy seemed to have a crush on one teller, he let us go ahead of him so he could "get" her.
Our teller was good, and accurate, but he kept texting on his cell phone. He's not going to last long if they catch him doing that. We completed our business and left.
We called Lou, but he was far away. So we called one other driver, it went to voicemail. Then we just called Yellow and got a ride pretty fast. We went through a drive through and got something to go. I managed to spill my shake all over my shirt, badgeholder, and pants, but I didn't spill it in the cab. Ooops.
We got home, I "hit" the stains with pretreater before I ate my meal. It was good. I discovered Biscuit had thrown up on the floor. I took my medication, and took a nap. {Biscuit is still pestering me for dinner, now he's licking my lower leg}.
I need to do up my pills tonight while I'm doing laundry. I always hate doing laundry, and pills, but I need to do it.
I had a weird dream in which I wasn't married. I knew I was, though, but I couldn't remember my husband. It was very odd. I woke up and remembered I was married to Ron.
Ron was passed out in the man cave, after sampling his vodka. I need to get his dirty clothes and pretreat them so I can do a load of clothes.
Ron has gained some weight. He has been pretty unkind to me over the years about my weight gain, so I found it ironic he has gained some weight, himself. He needs to buy bigger pants, he says. He was going to "fast" but I talked him out of it. I didn't tell Ron, but Doc told me it is very bad for alcoholics to go without eating.
So, we will see how that goes, hopefully I can find some pants. Oh, I hope the clothing supply chain is not as messed up as the junk food supplies.
That would be awful.
Biscuit is now lying sweetly between my feet, waiting for dinner.
He's pretty smart. He has figured out dinnertime is 6PM. OK. But he wants dinner at 5, so he comes to me as I sit in my computer chair. I'm seated in a folding chair with the CPU to my left. Biscuit comes in to the right, sits next to my right foot, and meows. Then he periodically puts his paws on top of my right thigh to remind me he's hungry. If he gets really impatient, he digs his claws into my skin, but for obvious reasons I discourage that. I tell him how many minutes he has left, like a toddler "28 minutes" "14 minutes" and talk to him as he meows and pats his feet on top of my thigh.
I didn't sleep well last night. When I got up I headed to the shower. I began. Biscuit popped his little gray/white head into the enclosure and meowed at me. I talked to him, and he left.
When I got out of the shower, I found Biscuit curled up on the tub mat, waiting for me. He had waited outside the shower while I finished.
Torbie has a new habit, too. She likes to run across the foot of the bed and jump onto her kitty condo right next to the bed.
When it comes to feeding, Biscuit and Baby Girl go first, then Torbie, after they've left. It's the same everytime.
Torbie likes the tuna cat food the best, the other two don't care.
So, I got dressed and ready for work. Our ride was late and traffic was awful. I told Ron we can't do anymore 7 AM pickups, besides, we had trouble with families doing the "drop off" next door (#6 runs some kind of shuttle bus for their own kids, plus some other families, to the charter school), and blocking our driveway.
Why does everyone want to block my driveway?
We finally got to work. I barely got started when Andy, the Sandwich guy, called. I ran out and got the delivery, then stocked it.
Ron was demanding the use of my handcart, I had snacks on it for stocking but I "let" him. I had to roll the cart around, take things on and off, etc., but he did the stocking.
It's 5 PM and here's Biscuit, pawing at my leg. "One hour" I told him. He is rubbing his face against my shin.
Once Ron finished with his work, I finished mine. I had some limited options for stocking so I did what I could, and put a lot of my core items. It wasn't terribly fancy or "planorific" (a planogram is a merchandise layout) but it will suffice until I can get some more merchandise.
From what I hear, the Frito Lay plant in Rosenberg flooded, one reason I haven't been able to get a lot of my things.
Biscuit's up to purring, front paws on my thigh. He knows if he's cute enough, I just might feed him early. He gets so excited over his dry food he tries to eat it out of the scoop.
So we did it all at work, finished up, and went outside. We waited outside in the sun for a while, until our driver arrived.
He took us to the bank. We counted the money at the bank, we don't like to do that, but we had to do it. One guy was paying a little too much attention, but when he caught me watching him "back"he stopped. Besides, we were counting $1 bills. It's not like they were fifties.
We finally finished up and got into line. One guy seemed to have a crush on one teller, he let us go ahead of him so he could "get" her.
Our teller was good, and accurate, but he kept texting on his cell phone. He's not going to last long if they catch him doing that. We completed our business and left.
We called Lou, but he was far away. So we called one other driver, it went to voicemail. Then we just called Yellow and got a ride pretty fast. We went through a drive through and got something to go. I managed to spill my shake all over my shirt, badgeholder, and pants, but I didn't spill it in the cab. Ooops.
We got home, I "hit" the stains with pretreater before I ate my meal. It was good. I discovered Biscuit had thrown up on the floor. I took my medication, and took a nap. {Biscuit is still pestering me for dinner, now he's licking my lower leg}.
I need to do up my pills tonight while I'm doing laundry. I always hate doing laundry, and pills, but I need to do it.
I had a weird dream in which I wasn't married. I knew I was, though, but I couldn't remember my husband. It was very odd. I woke up and remembered I was married to Ron.
Ron was passed out in the man cave, after sampling his vodka. I need to get his dirty clothes and pretreat them so I can do a load of clothes.
Ron has gained some weight. He has been pretty unkind to me over the years about my weight gain, so I found it ironic he has gained some weight, himself. He needs to buy bigger pants, he says. He was going to "fast" but I talked him out of it. I didn't tell Ron, but Doc told me it is very bad for alcoholics to go without eating.
So, we will see how that goes, hopefully I can find some pants. Oh, I hope the clothing supply chain is not as messed up as the junk food supplies.
That would be awful.
Biscuit is now lying sweetly between my feet, waiting for dinner.
Sunday, September 17, 2017
Not sleeping well today
I didn't sleep very well last night.
I woke up at 1:45, having drunk all my water. I picked up my water jug and went up to the kitchen to refill it. It's too tall to fill at the bathroom sink.
I saw something funny at the base of the driveway. A sedan with tinted windows, blocking my driveway.
I found it odd that it hadn't parked in a "normal" parking area, as there was plenty of it available. I was pretty angry, because he was blocking my driveway.
Next time, I resolved, I would call a tow truck. I decided I would get a phone number for a towing company in our area and call to have it towed, if it happened again. Ron woke up, and suggested we call the police. I told him to do it, but before he could, the car left.
This morning, I found a police car parked in front of my house so I think something happened. What? I'll never know.
I do wish I had called the police before he got away.
I went back to bed and slept poorly until I got up. I took a shower, didn't do my God Time, got on the computer.
Ron was playing his music, rather loudly. I worried he would get the neighbors started. He did turn it down when I told him the police were outside.
I took a nap, but again, didn't sleep well. I got up and got ready to go to Denny's with Ron. We went and had a pretty good time.
They "messed up" my order but it wasn't a big deal. They gave me one egg and double sausage, instead of double eggs and one side of sausage. I certainly wasn't going to send it back. They got the bacon right, and the side of fruit salad, so I was happy. She got Ron's order right, and brought me plenty of diet Cokes, so I was happy.
Ron said he had a dream about Denny's, last night. I helped him enact that, nothing weird or naughty, but some things (good deeds) I like to keep private.
We had a good ride home. The driver was black, listening to public radio stories of discrimination. I told him a story about a black driver who was almost beat up by a mexican client's family. She was barely verbal and acting out, sexually, in the cab. When she got home she continued to act out sexually while yelling sex words and pointing at the driver. The family, understandably, reacted poorly. The driver barely escaped. Needless to say he refused any more trips involving that client. He was worried he wouldn't be so lucky next time.
The driver ended up retiring a few years later.
We came in the house. Ron wanted me to play him some Youtube songs. I did.
I fed the cats. Pretty soon I need to go to bed.
I hope you had a good weekend. ((((Hugs))))
I woke up at 1:45, having drunk all my water. I picked up my water jug and went up to the kitchen to refill it. It's too tall to fill at the bathroom sink.
I saw something funny at the base of the driveway. A sedan with tinted windows, blocking my driveway.
I found it odd that it hadn't parked in a "normal" parking area, as there was plenty of it available. I was pretty angry, because he was blocking my driveway.
Next time, I resolved, I would call a tow truck. I decided I would get a phone number for a towing company in our area and call to have it towed, if it happened again. Ron woke up, and suggested we call the police. I told him to do it, but before he could, the car left.
This morning, I found a police car parked in front of my house so I think something happened. What? I'll never know.
I do wish I had called the police before he got away.
I went back to bed and slept poorly until I got up. I took a shower, didn't do my God Time, got on the computer.
Ron was playing his music, rather loudly. I worried he would get the neighbors started. He did turn it down when I told him the police were outside.
I took a nap, but again, didn't sleep well. I got up and got ready to go to Denny's with Ron. We went and had a pretty good time.
They "messed up" my order but it wasn't a big deal. They gave me one egg and double sausage, instead of double eggs and one side of sausage. I certainly wasn't going to send it back. They got the bacon right, and the side of fruit salad, so I was happy. She got Ron's order right, and brought me plenty of diet Cokes, so I was happy.
Ron said he had a dream about Denny's, last night. I helped him enact that, nothing weird or naughty, but some things (good deeds) I like to keep private.
We had a good ride home. The driver was black, listening to public radio stories of discrimination. I told him a story about a black driver who was almost beat up by a mexican client's family. She was barely verbal and acting out, sexually, in the cab. When she got home she continued to act out sexually while yelling sex words and pointing at the driver. The family, understandably, reacted poorly. The driver barely escaped. Needless to say he refused any more trips involving that client. He was worried he wouldn't be so lucky next time.
The driver ended up retiring a few years later.
We came in the house. Ron wanted me to play him some Youtube songs. I did.
I fed the cats. Pretty soon I need to go to bed.
I hope you had a good weekend. ((((Hugs))))
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Early tonight, if possible
Yesterday Ron and I went in to Walmart and got my 3 month refills. 4 prescriptions x 3 months = $240. Ron paid half of it.
I just pushed him around in a wheelchair, we got a few little things, but mainly the medication. Then we went home.
I hadn't washed my hair yesterday so it was really bad today when I finally got up (depressed). Ron told me I had half an hour to get ready. I took my shower, and washed my hair, in about 13 minutes. I had plenty of time to get dressed after that.
I got ready in time and had my badge and keys at the ready when we left. Paratransit sent a private cab with a wheelchair compartment. Ron always "transfers" if possible, rides in the back passenger seat.
When riding in a regular cab, I always sit behind the driver. They value their privacy and would rather no one sit in the front seat, if possible. When it's a paratransit cab, I sit in the front seat if possible because it is a first-come-first served basis.
At any rate, we got to Sam's Club early. We had to wait a little while for them to open. I got Ron settled. He was having an allergy attack so I bought him a diet soda. Then I got my flatbed and did my shopping.
Happily, they had most of their bottled sodas, but they appeared to be out of Coke cans. I called Ron. He called the manager and they did a search, found it, and brought it out. They even put the Cokes on my cart.
I went on to snacks. They didn't have my "flavor mix" but they had the small, hot, mix (one ounce assorted hot chips). I bought two of those. They didn't have any of my standard cookies, my customers will be unhappy about that, but I got some other things to put out instead. I didn't get any pastry because I had already spent a lot (especially once I hit the candy aisle) and Ron had only given me $400.
I checked out and paid, it came to $399.35. Just under the wire.
We waited for Jack. When he showed up, Jack had a really good attitude about helping with all the drinks, and we had a lot for us.
We went to work, got the carts, loaded them. Instead of taking them to the stockroom, I took them to the fridge and stocked it directly. Our fridge was pretty empty.
Once I got that stuffed, I took what was left on the carts to our area. Ron had gotten a longer amount of time today, so we used it. I didn't need to do much with snacks so I didn't. I helped Ron when I could.
Pretty soon it's time to go home. We did. When I got home, I ate some peanut butter, took my pills, and took a nap. I was pretty tired.
Ron woke me up a few times, and I got thirsty. I experience a lot of thirst, my medication makes me lose water at a pretty good rate. So I'm always having to replenish. I woke up around 4:15 when Ron's alarm went off. He either lost the alarm or was too drunk to find it.
I will give him this, he was pretty quiet.
I started working on my computer. Biscuit kept jumping up on my leg and digging his claws into my flesh. Very unpleasant; made me bleed. I scolded him. He settled for popping his head up on my leg now and then, no claws, to remind me he's "starving".
Well, he's 16 pounds. He needs to experience a little hunger now and then if he's going to lose any weight. I will feed him at 6 PM, in 6 minutes. I will give him a 1/3 cup of dry and a can of wet. Everyone likes that combination.
Biscuit seems to know his wait is almost over, he is patiently waiting by my foot. OK, time's up, I fed him. And Baby Girl, who came running over with her "whiny" meows.
Once I finish the blog I will clean the litter boxes and watch a little TV I think. I plan to go to bed early tonight, if possible.
I just pushed him around in a wheelchair, we got a few little things, but mainly the medication. Then we went home.
I hadn't washed my hair yesterday so it was really bad today when I finally got up (depressed). Ron told me I had half an hour to get ready. I took my shower, and washed my hair, in about 13 minutes. I had plenty of time to get dressed after that.
I got ready in time and had my badge and keys at the ready when we left. Paratransit sent a private cab with a wheelchair compartment. Ron always "transfers" if possible, rides in the back passenger seat.
When riding in a regular cab, I always sit behind the driver. They value their privacy and would rather no one sit in the front seat, if possible. When it's a paratransit cab, I sit in the front seat if possible because it is a first-come-first served basis.
At any rate, we got to Sam's Club early. We had to wait a little while for them to open. I got Ron settled. He was having an allergy attack so I bought him a diet soda. Then I got my flatbed and did my shopping.
Happily, they had most of their bottled sodas, but they appeared to be out of Coke cans. I called Ron. He called the manager and they did a search, found it, and brought it out. They even put the Cokes on my cart.
I went on to snacks. They didn't have my "flavor mix" but they had the small, hot, mix (one ounce assorted hot chips). I bought two of those. They didn't have any of my standard cookies, my customers will be unhappy about that, but I got some other things to put out instead. I didn't get any pastry because I had already spent a lot (especially once I hit the candy aisle) and Ron had only given me $400.
I checked out and paid, it came to $399.35. Just under the wire.
We waited for Jack. When he showed up, Jack had a really good attitude about helping with all the drinks, and we had a lot for us.
We went to work, got the carts, loaded them. Instead of taking them to the stockroom, I took them to the fridge and stocked it directly. Our fridge was pretty empty.
Once I got that stuffed, I took what was left on the carts to our area. Ron had gotten a longer amount of time today, so we used it. I didn't need to do much with snacks so I didn't. I helped Ron when I could.
Pretty soon it's time to go home. We did. When I got home, I ate some peanut butter, took my pills, and took a nap. I was pretty tired.
Ron woke me up a few times, and I got thirsty. I experience a lot of thirst, my medication makes me lose water at a pretty good rate. So I'm always having to replenish. I woke up around 4:15 when Ron's alarm went off. He either lost the alarm or was too drunk to find it.
I will give him this, he was pretty quiet.
I started working on my computer. Biscuit kept jumping up on my leg and digging his claws into my flesh. Very unpleasant; made me bleed. I scolded him. He settled for popping his head up on my leg now and then, no claws, to remind me he's "starving".
Well, he's 16 pounds. He needs to experience a little hunger now and then if he's going to lose any weight. I will feed him at 6 PM, in 6 minutes. I will give him a 1/3 cup of dry and a can of wet. Everyone likes that combination.
Biscuit seems to know his wait is almost over, he is patiently waiting by my foot. OK, time's up, I fed him. And Baby Girl, who came running over with her "whiny" meows.
Once I finish the blog I will clean the litter boxes and watch a little TV I think. I plan to go to bed early tonight, if possible.
Thursday, September 14, 2017
About average for Houston
I don't have a lot of time before I go to bed but I will at least crank something out.
I slept in today until about 8:30, pretty late for me. I ate a couple of meat sticks and took my antidepressant. Not a good combination.
I took my shower, but didn't do my God Time because Torbie was hogging my spot on the couch. Not the best argument, but that's what happened.
I played around on the computer most of the day, but don't feel much of it is worth posting. I took a short nap.
I didn't sleep well, and about the time I was, I had to wake up. Ron and I were going to Denny's. He likes their chicken fried steak.
Our ride was a little late but she is very nice, she is a vegan and we tease her about it. "Think of how many dead animals you could get on your plate". I think America is one of the few countries were you can actually select your diet. In many countries you have to take whatever you can get. Here, you can select.
I ordered eggs, bacon, and sausage, with a fruit salad. Ron ordered the chicken fried steak with extra eggs. I asked the waitress to bring extra gravy (brown gravy) and dumped it on the eggs. Ron loved it. I ate my food, it was good, and had the fruit salad for dessert. I have not been eating on plan this week and I didn't want to blow it any longer.
We had some confusion with our pickup, the driver went to the wrong location, and then dispatch called the wrong number, so he went away. They sent him back so we got our ride eventually.
Ron was worried he might have been a "bad" driver. I told him he was about average for Houston. Cutting people off and running red lights are pretty commonplace here, not that I'm saying he did that. Just that if a driver did do it, it wouldn't be uncommon.
We talked a little about the flood and the driver couldn't believe we almost flooded because we are "up on a hill" so to speak, at least 6 feet above street level. But we (almost) did. Thank God we didn't.
Houston really seems to be unhappy with the Red Cross. I have heard a lot of negativity about them, and nothing positive. I haven't had any direct experience with flood relief agencies since I didn't flood, but from what I hear the local (and imported) churches and church relief agencies (like Samaritan's Purse) did most of the heavy lifting.
Ron and I need to mail our flood insurance premium. I will try to get him to do that tomorrow. I will see it, as I always do, as a donation to a flood victim. Otherwise it is rather provoking to think about all the thousands we have sent them over the last 10 years or so. We could almost buy a new house!
Or new to us, at least.
Tomorrow I have to get up very early to get a Dr Pepper delivery. Hopefully they will actually send the Dr Pepper this time. We also need to stock, Ron wanted to take 3 days off, and I understand that, but it makes for a lot of work when we get back.
I had a pretty nasty headache yesterday but the Naproxen did a good job on it. I'm glad I have a prescription for it, it works very well for me. Which is why I asked for it. I figured if it would work on killer cramps from hell, and ovarian cyst pain, it would also work on shoulder and migraine pain. I was right, it's not addictive, I am fine with the side effects, it doesn't cause rebound headaches (like Tylenol), and it doesn't interact with my lithium. Best of all, it is cheap. Only $4 for a 60 count prescription.
Speaking of prescriptions, Walmart still doesn't have all my pills. The "rest" (apparently they have one prescription) are coming tomorrow, supposedly. Normally I get them in one day. This time, post flood, has taken a couple additional days. Happily I am not "out".
I need to go feed the cats before I go to bed. More tomorrow.
I slept in today until about 8:30, pretty late for me. I ate a couple of meat sticks and took my antidepressant. Not a good combination.
I took my shower, but didn't do my God Time because Torbie was hogging my spot on the couch. Not the best argument, but that's what happened.
I played around on the computer most of the day, but don't feel much of it is worth posting. I took a short nap.
I didn't sleep well, and about the time I was, I had to wake up. Ron and I were going to Denny's. He likes their chicken fried steak.
Our ride was a little late but she is very nice, she is a vegan and we tease her about it. "Think of how many dead animals you could get on your plate". I think America is one of the few countries were you can actually select your diet. In many countries you have to take whatever you can get. Here, you can select.
I ordered eggs, bacon, and sausage, with a fruit salad. Ron ordered the chicken fried steak with extra eggs. I asked the waitress to bring extra gravy (brown gravy) and dumped it on the eggs. Ron loved it. I ate my food, it was good, and had the fruit salad for dessert. I have not been eating on plan this week and I didn't want to blow it any longer.
We had some confusion with our pickup, the driver went to the wrong location, and then dispatch called the wrong number, so he went away. They sent him back so we got our ride eventually.
Ron was worried he might have been a "bad" driver. I told him he was about average for Houston. Cutting people off and running red lights are pretty commonplace here, not that I'm saying he did that. Just that if a driver did do it, it wouldn't be uncommon.
We talked a little about the flood and the driver couldn't believe we almost flooded because we are "up on a hill" so to speak, at least 6 feet above street level. But we (almost) did. Thank God we didn't.
Houston really seems to be unhappy with the Red Cross. I have heard a lot of negativity about them, and nothing positive. I haven't had any direct experience with flood relief agencies since I didn't flood, but from what I hear the local (and imported) churches and church relief agencies (like Samaritan's Purse) did most of the heavy lifting.
Ron and I need to mail our flood insurance premium. I will try to get him to do that tomorrow. I will see it, as I always do, as a donation to a flood victim. Otherwise it is rather provoking to think about all the thousands we have sent them over the last 10 years or so. We could almost buy a new house!
Or new to us, at least.
Tomorrow I have to get up very early to get a Dr Pepper delivery. Hopefully they will actually send the Dr Pepper this time. We also need to stock, Ron wanted to take 3 days off, and I understand that, but it makes for a lot of work when we get back.
I had a pretty nasty headache yesterday but the Naproxen did a good job on it. I'm glad I have a prescription for it, it works very well for me. Which is why I asked for it. I figured if it would work on killer cramps from hell, and ovarian cyst pain, it would also work on shoulder and migraine pain. I was right, it's not addictive, I am fine with the side effects, it doesn't cause rebound headaches (like Tylenol), and it doesn't interact with my lithium. Best of all, it is cheap. Only $4 for a 60 count prescription.
Speaking of prescriptions, Walmart still doesn't have all my pills. The "rest" (apparently they have one prescription) are coming tomorrow, supposedly. Normally I get them in one day. This time, post flood, has taken a couple additional days. Happily I am not "out".
I need to go feed the cats before I go to bed. More tomorrow.
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
"That drunken bastard!"
Well, I had a good time with my aunt.
I woke up early, took a shower, got dressed. I had a pretty nasty headache so I took some Excedrin. I waited on my antidepressant even though I really needed it. My aunt arrived right on time, I got in, and we left.
We stopped to get me a couple diet sodas. I do love my diet soda and nothing says good family time to me like a cold soda and some conversation.
Her GPS had her taking a route I'd never heard of, but I was game, especially since it went through part of Acres Homes, where I've done a lot of handouts. The neighborhood was a wreck, dead drywall and insulation piled next to mounds of rotting carpet. They can clearly use some ministry, but we had to turn before I could tell if they had finished fixing De Soto or not. If God wants me out there, He will let me know.
We only got stuck in traffic for a little while, it wasn't bad at all. We arrived early. My "copay" (bagged candy) was a big hit with the staff. The waiting room was packed and it looked like they would be working through lunch.
A medical student with a logo emblazoned on her white coat led me to the back. Doc discussed things with me. I complained a little about the hand tremor. It gets old. He knew I was just whining and didn't expect him to "fix" it. He asked about Ron.
If you recall, last time I told Doc Ron was a "major alcoholic". I related the head-stuck-in-the-wheelchair story and said he was about the same. It's true. He's just as bad as he was 3 months ago, and certainly no better.
Doc got back to me and gave what I consider "The lithium lecture" to the students (2 of them). He said nice things, like I was "very stable" and "Doing very well". Nice to hear, especially considering my circumstances.
Time to go. We went out to lunch at Red Robin. Last time my aunt got this awful, grilled, salad. It was horrible. This time she got a nice hamburger and fries. She fixed it up the way she wanted. I liked the grilled cheese, but they don't call it that. I think they call it a melt. At any rate, very good. I had that. Today was cheat day. I didn't get anything else. Just a lot of diet soda.
We left and went to Ikea. It was fun to walk around. I found it amusing to consider how long each couch would last in my home. For a lot of the items, the answer was "not very long". My 3 cats have their claws, and enjoy using them. I actually got my chair and loveseat (for the front room) from Ikea. They have done well. I laughed out loud when I saw the $1300 leather couch. No way.
Ikea was having a sale, 15% off, for everyone, because of the flood. Nice. I found a nice metal cart on wheels. It has a couple of shelves, with edges, so stuff won't fall down. It looked pretty cute, and, as my aunt noted, "Sturdy". True indeed. I considered picking one up for Ron to use next to his bed. It looked rugged enough not to break if he got drunk and fell on it. But would Ron want one?
At this point in time, I had ignorance. I could blissfully assume Ron was at home reading the Bible or playing with the cats, sober as a judge. I didn't have to deal with him, drunk. I decided not to call and burst my bubble, because, as I said yesterday, Ron tends to get very drunk when I leave for the day.
We continued shopping. I saw some cute kitchen tables but mine works OK. It is dirty because I feed the cats on it but it holds up the cat food just fine. I normally eat in my chair. But the tables were nice. I like the unfinished wood, solid pine. It would be fun to stain and finish if I had the energy. I went through a big wood-stain phase back in 2006 before I was diagnosed and medicated. It was fun.
We continued. I got a little nervous near the stairs, I'm scared of heights, but made it down just fine. We looked around some more. I found some huge tote bags with zippers. They were very nice. I grabbed some.
We looked at bedding, and I laughingly related Biscuit's proclivity to puke in the bed. So, bedding was out.
Carpets, Ron would trip and the cats would rip. Funny how my life is limited in some ways, by those I love. I found a huge sisal rug. The cats would love to scratch on it. But it was too big (4x6 feet) for my home. I don't have that much free space.
"Why not get one of these doormats?" my aunt suggested, showing me a sisal doormat for $5. I picked one up. The cats would love it. I took it with me.
I found those carts again, the one I wanted to get for Ron, and decided I wanted one after all. If Ron doesn't use it I can put it next to my chair. They were only $25, not counting the sale.
My aunt found a few things she wanted, and took some photos, on her shopping. We checked out.
I had a horrific dry mouth; I had taken my medication, all of it (including the antidepressant) with lunch. I desperately needed a drink.
My aunt stopped at a pharmacy and I got a couple cold bottles of Diet Dr Pepper. I drank them on the way home.
I came home to find the yard mowed. Our yard guy must have come by.
My aunt dropped me off and left. I went in the house. Ron was passed out in bed, snoring. Everything looked the way I'd left it. Good.
Ron woke up after I came home and we talked a little bit. He'd slept through the yard crew. I took a nap for about an hour, then we talked about our trips for tomorrow.
The cats investigated the new doormat, and Biscuit had fun sharpening his claws on it. Good. That's the idea. I plan to scold them now and then when they sharpen their claws on it, just to make it "forbidden". It's like the laundry room. The cats can go anywhere in the house, except the laundry room. So where do they want to go? The laundry room.
Ron was very drunk, but pleasant. He asked me to play him some music. Since he was nice, I did. He enjoyed that, and asked me to look up random things on Wikipedia. I did that. We had fun. He kept going back for more drinks, though.
He was most upset to discover he had already eaten his Denny's takeout from last night. "That drunken bastard!" He found something else to eat instead.
Speaking of food, it was dinnertime, so I fed the cats. Torbie had been very into the old tuna leftovers so I gave them some more tuna. Biscuit and Baby Girl don't seem to care what they get, tuna or salmon, but Torbie really likes the tuna. So I feed it.
I'll have to get more, the next time I go to Walmart.
Ron finally went to bed. It's pretty late, for me (almost 8 PM), so I plan to go to bed soon and get a good night of sleep. I had a hard time with the headache last night, so hopefully I will be headache free this time.
Although I did eat a chocolate pastry (I said it was a cheat day) on the way to Doc's so I may get a headache from that. It was pretty good, but not as good as the old ones the first company used to make.
I plan to eat clean from now until my birthday. I'm leaving an option open for dessert on my birthday, just because I haven't had a "real" birthday dinner in a couple of years now.
I woke up early, took a shower, got dressed. I had a pretty nasty headache so I took some Excedrin. I waited on my antidepressant even though I really needed it. My aunt arrived right on time, I got in, and we left.
We stopped to get me a couple diet sodas. I do love my diet soda and nothing says good family time to me like a cold soda and some conversation.
Her GPS had her taking a route I'd never heard of, but I was game, especially since it went through part of Acres Homes, where I've done a lot of handouts. The neighborhood was a wreck, dead drywall and insulation piled next to mounds of rotting carpet. They can clearly use some ministry, but we had to turn before I could tell if they had finished fixing De Soto or not. If God wants me out there, He will let me know.
We only got stuck in traffic for a little while, it wasn't bad at all. We arrived early. My "copay" (bagged candy) was a big hit with the staff. The waiting room was packed and it looked like they would be working through lunch.
A medical student with a logo emblazoned on her white coat led me to the back. Doc discussed things with me. I complained a little about the hand tremor. It gets old. He knew I was just whining and didn't expect him to "fix" it. He asked about Ron.
If you recall, last time I told Doc Ron was a "major alcoholic". I related the head-stuck-in-the-wheelchair story and said he was about the same. It's true. He's just as bad as he was 3 months ago, and certainly no better.
Doc got back to me and gave what I consider "The lithium lecture" to the students (2 of them). He said nice things, like I was "very stable" and "Doing very well". Nice to hear, especially considering my circumstances.
Time to go. We went out to lunch at Red Robin. Last time my aunt got this awful, grilled, salad. It was horrible. This time she got a nice hamburger and fries. She fixed it up the way she wanted. I liked the grilled cheese, but they don't call it that. I think they call it a melt. At any rate, very good. I had that. Today was cheat day. I didn't get anything else. Just a lot of diet soda.
We left and went to Ikea. It was fun to walk around. I found it amusing to consider how long each couch would last in my home. For a lot of the items, the answer was "not very long". My 3 cats have their claws, and enjoy using them. I actually got my chair and loveseat (for the front room) from Ikea. They have done well. I laughed out loud when I saw the $1300 leather couch. No way.
Ikea was having a sale, 15% off, for everyone, because of the flood. Nice. I found a nice metal cart on wheels. It has a couple of shelves, with edges, so stuff won't fall down. It looked pretty cute, and, as my aunt noted, "Sturdy". True indeed. I considered picking one up for Ron to use next to his bed. It looked rugged enough not to break if he got drunk and fell on it. But would Ron want one?
At this point in time, I had ignorance. I could blissfully assume Ron was at home reading the Bible or playing with the cats, sober as a judge. I didn't have to deal with him, drunk. I decided not to call and burst my bubble, because, as I said yesterday, Ron tends to get very drunk when I leave for the day.
We continued shopping. I saw some cute kitchen tables but mine works OK. It is dirty because I feed the cats on it but it holds up the cat food just fine. I normally eat in my chair. But the tables were nice. I like the unfinished wood, solid pine. It would be fun to stain and finish if I had the energy. I went through a big wood-stain phase back in 2006 before I was diagnosed and medicated. It was fun.
We continued. I got a little nervous near the stairs, I'm scared of heights, but made it down just fine. We looked around some more. I found some huge tote bags with zippers. They were very nice. I grabbed some.
We looked at bedding, and I laughingly related Biscuit's proclivity to puke in the bed. So, bedding was out.
Carpets, Ron would trip and the cats would rip. Funny how my life is limited in some ways, by those I love. I found a huge sisal rug. The cats would love to scratch on it. But it was too big (4x6 feet) for my home. I don't have that much free space.
"Why not get one of these doormats?" my aunt suggested, showing me a sisal doormat for $5. I picked one up. The cats would love it. I took it with me.
I found those carts again, the one I wanted to get for Ron, and decided I wanted one after all. If Ron doesn't use it I can put it next to my chair. They were only $25, not counting the sale.
My aunt found a few things she wanted, and took some photos, on her shopping. We checked out.
I had a horrific dry mouth; I had taken my medication, all of it (including the antidepressant) with lunch. I desperately needed a drink.
My aunt stopped at a pharmacy and I got a couple cold bottles of Diet Dr Pepper. I drank them on the way home.
I came home to find the yard mowed. Our yard guy must have come by.
My aunt dropped me off and left. I went in the house. Ron was passed out in bed, snoring. Everything looked the way I'd left it. Good.
Ron woke up after I came home and we talked a little bit. He'd slept through the yard crew. I took a nap for about an hour, then we talked about our trips for tomorrow.
The cats investigated the new doormat, and Biscuit had fun sharpening his claws on it. Good. That's the idea. I plan to scold them now and then when they sharpen their claws on it, just to make it "forbidden". It's like the laundry room. The cats can go anywhere in the house, except the laundry room. So where do they want to go? The laundry room.
Ron was very drunk, but pleasant. He asked me to play him some music. Since he was nice, I did. He enjoyed that, and asked me to look up random things on Wikipedia. I did that. We had fun. He kept going back for more drinks, though.
He was most upset to discover he had already eaten his Denny's takeout from last night. "That drunken bastard!" He found something else to eat instead.
Speaking of food, it was dinnertime, so I fed the cats. Torbie had been very into the old tuna leftovers so I gave them some more tuna. Biscuit and Baby Girl don't seem to care what they get, tuna or salmon, but Torbie really likes the tuna. So I feed it.
I'll have to get more, the next time I go to Walmart.
Ron finally went to bed. It's pretty late, for me (almost 8 PM), so I plan to go to bed soon and get a good night of sleep. I had a hard time with the headache last night, so hopefully I will be headache free this time.
Although I did eat a chocolate pastry (I said it was a cheat day) on the way to Doc's so I may get a headache from that. It was pretty good, but not as good as the old ones the first company used to make.
I plan to eat clean from now until my birthday. I'm leaving an option open for dessert on my birthday, just because I haven't had a "real" birthday dinner in a couple of years now.
Monday, September 11, 2017
Plain Ruffles are always a good seller
I had a dairy drink yesterday at Starbucks. Today, I woke up with a nasty headache. It has persisted all day, even until now.
Monday is our big stocking day. I had to be sharp. I got up early and took some Excedrin, then went back to bed for a little bit. I got up once I started feeling jittery.
I took my shower. I wasn't hungry so I didn't eat. I have learned to listen to my body, if I'm hurting, and not hungry, I shouldn't eat. That's also how I know when I'm sick; I never have an appetite.
I got dressed and we went in to work. The machines were pretty bare, the snacks at least. However, first thing, we had to mail a check to our parent organization. They get a percentage of our sales every month.
Ron kept interrupting me every couple minutes, it made it very difficult to work, even after I had mailed the check. Imagine you are stocking a shelf. Every 3 or 4 items someone pulls you off that work to do something else, then sends you back to stock, only to pull you away again.
If we had the money, sometimes, I swear, I would hire someone whose sole job would be helping Ron. They would follow him around all day and do whatever he asked, while I got the real work done. It's a nice fantasy.
I did both jobs, stocking, and helping Ron. I also did my third job, helping customers. Various people needed change, etc.
Our sandwich guy called a little late, but earlier than I expected. I know the route between the company, and our business, has been pretty rough since the flood. He did very well.
I get the sandwiches for the other company, also, then I deliver them to the other vendor's employee. I am happy to do this, it's the least I can do. After all, the other guy takes out the dumpsters, a job I really hate. I haven't had to do a dumpster in years. I would do a lot more for this guy if it came down to it; not just because of the dumpster but because he's a nice guy.
Did I mention he has 3 cats? So, I accepted delivery of 2 boxes. One marked "My company name" and "Their company name". I gave "Their" box to the other guy and went to stock "Mine". However, I found sandwiches I knew we never ordered, and far more of them than I should have had. I realized the sandwich company had put "Their" order into "My" box. I chased down the other guy and explained. His box was about half as full as mine, definitely an order mix up. We traded boxes and I stocked mine.
I went back to work and finished everything I had come to do. I was unhappy I had to change some of my lineups. For instance, the hot mix 1 ounce chips were totally unavailable. So I had to substitute Chili Cheese Fritos and regular Cheetos instead. I didn't have the hot Doritos, so I did 2 rows of the plain Ruffles. Plain Ruffles are always a good seller.
I did what I could. I wasn't happy but supply chain is all screwed up due to the flood. What can you do?
Ron, by the way, has been trying to find more canned Dr Pepper and Coke products. He called Sam's today, they are still out. He called Walmart, they are out. So we will have to place an order for more Dr Peppers, with Dr Pepper, and hope they come through this time.
I already told Ron I am not getting up at 2 AM on my birthday, next week, to get soda, so he'd better do it this week.
We finished up and came home.
My headache wasn't too bad at this point. I took a nap when I got home an the headache worsened, waking me up early. I took 3 aspirin and went back to bed. That helped somewhat.
I still wasn't feeling great but Ron wanted to go to Denny's. He kept talking about chicken fried steak and eggs. I had no appetite for any kind of protein but figured I could always eat a bowl of fruit salad.
That's what I did. Ron made his dish "lower carb" by refusing the bread and potatoes that came with the dish. The cook made fries anyway, which I ate. Eating the fries actually helped my head. Ron ate the chicken fried steak with 4 eggs and loved it.
I suggested he get another one, to go. He did. He can use more protein. He just needs to watch his carbohydrate intake and he will be fine.
I lost 80 pounds, twice, on low carb so it works if you can stick with it. I think he will be fine if he can stay 90% low carb.
Our ride came and we went home. The driver said part of her ceiling fell in during Harvey and she is living somewhere else until she can get everything fixed. I told her Ikea is a good store, hopefully she will give them a shot. You can get a good sleeper sofa for $150. I know, I have one sitting to my left. I think it's a Solsta.
Anyway, we came home. Ron started drinking and went to bed. I will be going to bed pretty soon because I have to get up early tomorrow.
I see my doctor tomorrow; just my usual checkup. Then, hopefully, lunch with my aunt and some good times before I have to come back home to, most likely, a very drunk Ron.
He tends to drink to excess when I am gone, forgetting that I have to come back and deal with him in that condition. I am preparing myself for that. It's probably one reason I don't leave the house by myself much, anymore. He is just too out of control when I come back.
[sigh]
Monday is our big stocking day. I had to be sharp. I got up early and took some Excedrin, then went back to bed for a little bit. I got up once I started feeling jittery.
I took my shower. I wasn't hungry so I didn't eat. I have learned to listen to my body, if I'm hurting, and not hungry, I shouldn't eat. That's also how I know when I'm sick; I never have an appetite.
I got dressed and we went in to work. The machines were pretty bare, the snacks at least. However, first thing, we had to mail a check to our parent organization. They get a percentage of our sales every month.
Ron kept interrupting me every couple minutes, it made it very difficult to work, even after I had mailed the check. Imagine you are stocking a shelf. Every 3 or 4 items someone pulls you off that work to do something else, then sends you back to stock, only to pull you away again.
If we had the money, sometimes, I swear, I would hire someone whose sole job would be helping Ron. They would follow him around all day and do whatever he asked, while I got the real work done. It's a nice fantasy.
I did both jobs, stocking, and helping Ron. I also did my third job, helping customers. Various people needed change, etc.
Our sandwich guy called a little late, but earlier than I expected. I know the route between the company, and our business, has been pretty rough since the flood. He did very well.
I get the sandwiches for the other company, also, then I deliver them to the other vendor's employee. I am happy to do this, it's the least I can do. After all, the other guy takes out the dumpsters, a job I really hate. I haven't had to do a dumpster in years. I would do a lot more for this guy if it came down to it; not just because of the dumpster but because he's a nice guy.
Did I mention he has 3 cats? So, I accepted delivery of 2 boxes. One marked "My company name" and "Their company name". I gave "Their" box to the other guy and went to stock "Mine". However, I found sandwiches I knew we never ordered, and far more of them than I should have had. I realized the sandwich company had put "Their" order into "My" box. I chased down the other guy and explained. His box was about half as full as mine, definitely an order mix up. We traded boxes and I stocked mine.
I went back to work and finished everything I had come to do. I was unhappy I had to change some of my lineups. For instance, the hot mix 1 ounce chips were totally unavailable. So I had to substitute Chili Cheese Fritos and regular Cheetos instead. I didn't have the hot Doritos, so I did 2 rows of the plain Ruffles. Plain Ruffles are always a good seller.
I did what I could. I wasn't happy but supply chain is all screwed up due to the flood. What can you do?
Ron, by the way, has been trying to find more canned Dr Pepper and Coke products. He called Sam's today, they are still out. He called Walmart, they are out. So we will have to place an order for more Dr Peppers, with Dr Pepper, and hope they come through this time.
I already told Ron I am not getting up at 2 AM on my birthday, next week, to get soda, so he'd better do it this week.
We finished up and came home.
My headache wasn't too bad at this point. I took a nap when I got home an the headache worsened, waking me up early. I took 3 aspirin and went back to bed. That helped somewhat.
I still wasn't feeling great but Ron wanted to go to Denny's. He kept talking about chicken fried steak and eggs. I had no appetite for any kind of protein but figured I could always eat a bowl of fruit salad.
That's what I did. Ron made his dish "lower carb" by refusing the bread and potatoes that came with the dish. The cook made fries anyway, which I ate. Eating the fries actually helped my head. Ron ate the chicken fried steak with 4 eggs and loved it.
I suggested he get another one, to go. He did. He can use more protein. He just needs to watch his carbohydrate intake and he will be fine.
I lost 80 pounds, twice, on low carb so it works if you can stick with it. I think he will be fine if he can stay 90% low carb.
Our ride came and we went home. The driver said part of her ceiling fell in during Harvey and she is living somewhere else until she can get everything fixed. I told her Ikea is a good store, hopefully she will give them a shot. You can get a good sleeper sofa for $150. I know, I have one sitting to my left. I think it's a Solsta.
Anyway, we came home. Ron started drinking and went to bed. I will be going to bed pretty soon because I have to get up early tomorrow.
I see my doctor tomorrow; just my usual checkup. Then, hopefully, lunch with my aunt and some good times before I have to come back home to, most likely, a very drunk Ron.
He tends to drink to excess when I am gone, forgetting that I have to come back and deal with him in that condition. I am preparing myself for that. It's probably one reason I don't leave the house by myself much, anymore. He is just too out of control when I come back.
[sigh]
Sunday, September 10, 2017
He's a puker
It's a bad combination, depression and feeling uninspired.
Yesterday morning I got up, got ready, and we headed off to the Sam's Club to buy more inventory. The thieves in my stockroom made off with our peach tea, and Sam's was out the last time we went.
We got to the store and I looked around. Plus one: they had water. Plus two: they had tea. Unfortunately they didn't have any other bottled sodas.
Later on, I talked to the manager. Not in an ugly, demanding, way, but just "What's happening?" She told me they get all their supplies from the distribution center, and the DC hasn't been sending the bottled soda, for whatever reason.
Maybe, they figure, with the flood, we need more water. I know places like Victoria do. But most of Houston, from my view, is pretty much recovered in terms of potable water.
Same problem with snacks, certain "best sellers" were out of stock, and I had to compromise. I hope the customers are understanding.
I got what I could, paid, and left. Jack came to get us, and we went to work. Jack was pretty happy loading the truck, it was all snacks, pretty much, hardly any drinks at all. They didn't even have canned Coke.
Same thing unloading when we got to work, I only brought out two carts. That's all we needed.
I got everything into the building. Snacks looked OK to me, so I didn't stock. I will have a long day of stocking tomorrow, though.
Speaking of, while I was stocking "Mr Freebie" came in. He always asks if we have something free. Hardly ever buys anything, brings his own lunch. I was a little raw on the subject what with my stockroom being looted, and was a little terse.
He tried to explain to me how it is OK for people to completely neglect to prepare, when they know a storm is coming, and then to make it my problem by looting the stockroom. Why didn't they bring extra food? Didn't they plan on being stranded, since it happened before during Allison?
I asked him and he didn't have any answers, just kept saying they would pay us (When?), and I left. I am sick of people helping themselves to my stuff because they think they have a right to it, and I am really sick of the whole I exist, so I deserve the merchandise that Ron and Heather paid for with their hard-earned money. No, you're not that special.
If you'd like to buy something, we'll talk. If you only have a $20, I can make change for you. If you don't have any cash, there is an ATM at the front of the building. God gave you the brains to prepare, if you're so inclined. If you choose not to use your God-given brains (we had plenty of warning), then that's not my problem.
Back to work. We finished up and left; I came home and took a nap. We got up and went to the BBQ place. It had been a while.
We had a good ride. For now, the toll roads are free for everyone so it was an easy, quick, ride. We got there and ordered our food.
We were there for about an hour. I wasn't terribly hungry, so I just nibbled at my brisket and drank my soda. We had a good time.
I like eating out with Ron because generally, the restaurant doesn't serve anything stronger than beer, if they serve alcohol at all. If he's at home, he is drinking.
Our ride home pulled up right after we left. He had another pickup, a lady at a steakhouse right around the corner. I gave him directions.
When we got there, she tried to scam him (when you are in certain service areas, you must provide 2 tickets to ride, a pass is worthless), then had a tantrum when it didn't work. She said someone had approved for her to ride without remembering their name (she was not elderly or intellectually limited), brought a passenger with her, it was very tight in the backseat for Ron. She lectured Ron about eating pork (I was dying to ask, "What are you, a muslim?"). Plus she kept moving her leftovers around, spilling them, etc. I was so happy to get out of that vehicle. She didn't spill on Ron, amazingly.
Later on Ron agreed we will ride with Chuck for my birthday/our anniversary dinner next week. I don't want someone like that trying to ruin things for us.
We came in the house. Biscuit greeted me, along with Baby Girl. Baby Girl always greets us. If she doesn't one day I will know she is sick. I fed them and Biscuit gobbled it down, then proceeded to vomit, 3 times, on the floor.
[sigh] He's a puker. I love him, but I do get a little tired cleaning it up. Thank God for disinfecting wipes.
Baby Girl, endearingly, tried to cover it up. She found some scraps of paper on the floor (I'm not very tidy), and painstakingly scraped them over the mess, diligently working to eliminate any trace of the unpleasantness. I told her "I got this",. petted her, and nudged her out of the way, disinfecting wipes in hand. What a quirky little girl.
I went to bed. I slept pretty well and woke up about half an hour before the alarm. I took my shower and got on the computer for a while. Ron woke up, got dressed, etc.
I put my medication in my little portable thing, and took it with me. We were going to Starbucks.
Ron has apparently gained weight. He is feeling "very fat" and has decided to fast to lose the weight. I told him to watch the carbs, that doesn't seem to be something he wants to do. He will deprive his body of everything, instead.
Men, from my experience, have a very easy time losing weight. Women, not so much.
So he just sat here "staring" at me drinking my heavy whipping cream steamer (if I can't eat paleo, I eat keto). Again, we had a pretty good time. He couldn't drink.
Our ride was a little early and liked us. She was a nice girl. She kept talking about various horror movies she has seen. We got home in good time.
We had to file our accounting report today, so we agreed to take a nap (Ron and I) and then get up and do it. We did that. Ron got confused about some numbers and I had to edit it three times. But we got it done.
Biscuit kept bugging me while I did the report, and Baby Girl was whining. I looked at the time, oh. After 6. I feed the cats when I wake up, and at 6PM. So I fed them.
Happily Biscuit has not puked today.
I already had a big lunch so I will probably get into my peanut butter today and then call it done. I have to get up pretty early so I will be online for a little bit and then bed.
I don't know if I mentioned my adoptive grandmother. She is my stepmother's mother. We have never been close but she is very close to my stepmother. Anyway, she was in Florida, in the path of the storm. She had a hellish evacuation but she is safe now and resupplied. She is 95.
I'm glad to hear she made it. It's one thing for me to consider, if I ever did evacuate I would probably have a very long ride on the road. How would I plan for that with the cats?
Yesterday morning I got up, got ready, and we headed off to the Sam's Club to buy more inventory. The thieves in my stockroom made off with our peach tea, and Sam's was out the last time we went.
We got to the store and I looked around. Plus one: they had water. Plus two: they had tea. Unfortunately they didn't have any other bottled sodas.
Later on, I talked to the manager. Not in an ugly, demanding, way, but just "What's happening?" She told me they get all their supplies from the distribution center, and the DC hasn't been sending the bottled soda, for whatever reason.
Maybe, they figure, with the flood, we need more water. I know places like Victoria do. But most of Houston, from my view, is pretty much recovered in terms of potable water.
Same problem with snacks, certain "best sellers" were out of stock, and I had to compromise. I hope the customers are understanding.
I got what I could, paid, and left. Jack came to get us, and we went to work. Jack was pretty happy loading the truck, it was all snacks, pretty much, hardly any drinks at all. They didn't even have canned Coke.
Same thing unloading when we got to work, I only brought out two carts. That's all we needed.
I got everything into the building. Snacks looked OK to me, so I didn't stock. I will have a long day of stocking tomorrow, though.
Speaking of, while I was stocking "Mr Freebie" came in. He always asks if we have something free. Hardly ever buys anything, brings his own lunch. I was a little raw on the subject what with my stockroom being looted, and was a little terse.
He tried to explain to me how it is OK for people to completely neglect to prepare, when they know a storm is coming, and then to make it my problem by looting the stockroom. Why didn't they bring extra food? Didn't they plan on being stranded, since it happened before during Allison?
I asked him and he didn't have any answers, just kept saying they would pay us (When?), and I left. I am sick of people helping themselves to my stuff because they think they have a right to it, and I am really sick of the whole I exist, so I deserve the merchandise that Ron and Heather paid for with their hard-earned money. No, you're not that special.
If you'd like to buy something, we'll talk. If you only have a $20, I can make change for you. If you don't have any cash, there is an ATM at the front of the building. God gave you the brains to prepare, if you're so inclined. If you choose not to use your God-given brains (we had plenty of warning), then that's not my problem.
Back to work. We finished up and left; I came home and took a nap. We got up and went to the BBQ place. It had been a while.
We had a good ride. For now, the toll roads are free for everyone so it was an easy, quick, ride. We got there and ordered our food.
We were there for about an hour. I wasn't terribly hungry, so I just nibbled at my brisket and drank my soda. We had a good time.
I like eating out with Ron because generally, the restaurant doesn't serve anything stronger than beer, if they serve alcohol at all. If he's at home, he is drinking.
Our ride home pulled up right after we left. He had another pickup, a lady at a steakhouse right around the corner. I gave him directions.
When we got there, she tried to scam him (when you are in certain service areas, you must provide 2 tickets to ride, a pass is worthless), then had a tantrum when it didn't work. She said someone had approved for her to ride without remembering their name (she was not elderly or intellectually limited), brought a passenger with her, it was very tight in the backseat for Ron. She lectured Ron about eating pork (I was dying to ask, "What are you, a muslim?"). Plus she kept moving her leftovers around, spilling them, etc. I was so happy to get out of that vehicle. She didn't spill on Ron, amazingly.
Later on Ron agreed we will ride with Chuck for my birthday/our anniversary dinner next week. I don't want someone like that trying to ruin things for us.
We came in the house. Biscuit greeted me, along with Baby Girl. Baby Girl always greets us. If she doesn't one day I will know she is sick. I fed them and Biscuit gobbled it down, then proceeded to vomit, 3 times, on the floor.
[sigh] He's a puker. I love him, but I do get a little tired cleaning it up. Thank God for disinfecting wipes.
Baby Girl, endearingly, tried to cover it up. She found some scraps of paper on the floor (I'm not very tidy), and painstakingly scraped them over the mess, diligently working to eliminate any trace of the unpleasantness. I told her "I got this",. petted her, and nudged her out of the way, disinfecting wipes in hand. What a quirky little girl.
I went to bed. I slept pretty well and woke up about half an hour before the alarm. I took my shower and got on the computer for a while. Ron woke up, got dressed, etc.
I put my medication in my little portable thing, and took it with me. We were going to Starbucks.
Ron has apparently gained weight. He is feeling "very fat" and has decided to fast to lose the weight. I told him to watch the carbs, that doesn't seem to be something he wants to do. He will deprive his body of everything, instead.
Men, from my experience, have a very easy time losing weight. Women, not so much.
So he just sat here "staring" at me drinking my heavy whipping cream steamer (if I can't eat paleo, I eat keto). Again, we had a pretty good time. He couldn't drink.
Our ride was a little early and liked us. She was a nice girl. She kept talking about various horror movies she has seen. We got home in good time.
We had to file our accounting report today, so we agreed to take a nap (Ron and I) and then get up and do it. We did that. Ron got confused about some numbers and I had to edit it three times. But we got it done.
Biscuit kept bugging me while I did the report, and Baby Girl was whining. I looked at the time, oh. After 6. I feed the cats when I wake up, and at 6PM. So I fed them.
Happily Biscuit has not puked today.
I already had a big lunch so I will probably get into my peanut butter today and then call it done. I have to get up pretty early so I will be online for a little bit and then bed.
I don't know if I mentioned my adoptive grandmother. She is my stepmother's mother. We have never been close but she is very close to my stepmother. Anyway, she was in Florida, in the path of the storm. She had a hellish evacuation but she is safe now and resupplied. She is 95.
I'm glad to hear she made it. It's one thing for me to consider, if I ever did evacuate I would probably have a very long ride on the road. How would I plan for that with the cats?
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