A Fresh beginning again... Mondays are like that you know !!

Oct 04, 2010 A new day dawns here in the islands, there was a marathon Mahjong game going last night, it started yesterday afternoon and just never bothered to stop.  As of 7:30am they are still at it. Last evening, I gave Nora the final 5,000p payment for her to give her father for the piece of land we purchased in Basud.  I have no idea what we will do with that land, but at the time of the purchase, it was very important to Nora to keep it in the family and especially out of the hands of Lyn, her estranged sister in Korea. Also last night Nora told me that Lyn is bringing her children to Manila next year and will want Father to take care of them, her intent as I know it is to leave her husband whom she professes to no longer be in love with.  She told Father that she would rent a condo in Manila... I cannot fathom where she would get that kind of money plus the fact that Father is already taking care of Lalaine's 4 children in Basud.  I would hope Nora can talk her Father out of this but here, in the Philippines, family has a deeper sense of commitment than you normally see. Monday, a wonderful day as it means that we will soon put yet another week of treatment behind us and also will be one week closer to fulfilling the dream of living in America, a land that I surely do miss. Good day to you Leann, you are probably the only reader I have. Continuing the story, Nora went to St. Lukes clinic and returned in the early afternoon, I picked her up at the main junction on Alex's scooter. We then went to Divine market where she bought a couple minor things, primarily some medications for Kenneth's sore throat. She made me a hamburger for dinner and a salad and it was a nice change for me.  We discussed going to Jimmie's gravesite and she chose either the 9th or the 16th of October... Alex said he would drive us for about 2,000 or a little more. I figured on about 2,500 for all of us in an AC equipped van would be reasonable. Not much else for this day I guess, perhaps I will dream something tonight to enlighten you with tomorrow...

This is The Lords Day, make it great !!!

Oct 03, 2010

Sunday morning, actually not bad, we slept quite soundly and without interruption until baby woke up. Uneventful morning, we bathed and about 8:45 we left to attend the 9am mass at Divine Mercy Catholic church. Mass was good, or so I am told, it is performed entirely in Tagalog so I am left knowing only when to stand and when to sit. The Catholic religion has too much too do and tradition for me to really enjoy it anymore... I go to keep Nora happy.

We looked at the street market vendors that only appear on Sundays and found few things outside of some coffee cups and a spaghetti noodle ladle that Nora wanted. She bought a little charcoal and some sweets and I bought two packages of pork rinds... not great nutritionally, but it sated the taste buds... Alex bought some oysters to that will be a nice treat... Nora has Kenneth preparing fish, I believe steamed on the bbq... Point of interest, you really have to see one of these bbq's to believe it, made of scrap wood and a piece of tin to hold the charcoal fire... it works though.

Nora is doing the white clothes this afternoon so the kids will have something to wear and some of our clothing also I suspect. I was thinking while in church, it has been 42 years since I was in Viet Nam. A lot of water has flowed under this bridge since then.

Hope you who might read this blog have a wonderful day... for us, it is Sunday and for you?? who knows.

Nora was in a fuss about getting the application form printed for her appt with the DFA, problem is, no long bond paper... I went to Pams internet cafe and stopped at two stores along the way to see if we could find some long bond paper but no luck, once at Pams, they are unable to print PDF documents (rather unheard of this day and age), anyway, no luck there so then I took Alex's motor and went do Divine gift shop, no luck, internet cafe in market place is closed so no luck there, came back home and by chance asked the young girl that works in the store next to the house if she had any and luck would have it she had one sheet that she gave me... Nora and I went back to Pams and once again were told that they don't print PDF forms, Guy's neice took us to another cafe down the road where Nora was able to get it printed out. Back home now and wondering how the evening is going to go... Nora just asked me to change the wifi password... I wonder about that... anyway, the new name is ... really? you thought I would put it up here?? you been drinking too much McDonalds coffee... From denny's iPad...

'tis the second of October... I keep thinking it should be brisk in the morning...

Oct 02, 2010

Last night, the nose gave me a break, but the cold has moved into the cough stage now and unfortunately that keeps others awake. We take medication, but I truly believe that God has given us the cold to help us appreciate good health... Not really.

Nora wanted to sleep until 8am this morning, but was wide awake at a little before 7am and brought the baby into our bed, something that I still don't particularly like, I need a little time to wake up before being subjected to that much energy in a tiny bundle.

Today, we are supposed to pay the electricity bill and also buy the rice for the month... Nora told me she would buy either 1,400 or 1.500 p of rice... I reminded her that the budget calls for 1,400p to spend on the rice.

Actually I was just thinking about the budget... I figured it based on a 31 day month including the trans costs which actually are less than 31 days... for Kenneth it is 24 days and Joyce is 20 and Nora is 20 so hopefully that will allow a little surplus of money towards the end of the month.

I suppose that keeping this daily diary keeps me sane, at times, here with the children and everything else, it taxes my patience, I don't mean for it to, but it does. Sometimes I am short with Nora and that is probably a culmination of the weather, my cold, all the other things that are happening, my need for American or at least english stimulation... I am absolutely starved for a meaningful conversation with someone fluent with my language... here they try, but at best it is a compromise...

God is teaching me important lessons in this stay here in the Philippines. I appreciate it because in the end, when I have my family back home, I will be a better person and definetly a stronger man.

From denny's iPad...

The 1st day of October... the end beckons...

Oct 01, 2010

Last night was in a word, miserable, between the coughing and the runny nose and having to pee every hour, I was not having a good time at all. Nora is a cuddler, but her little body exudes so much heat that it is just impossible to enjoy it here in the Philippines.

We finally got up just after the 5:30 alarm went off, had some coffee and then I re-computed Nora's money for the week. It appears that she will be able to have 800p a day (including the transportation costs for her and the kids).

We had one helluva trip to get to the bus, then the road leading to Marilao is under construction and it was just a shitty trip period, then once on the bus it was nut to butt only almost all the way into Manila.

The trip to the embassy was by cab and then once there I was seen almost immediately. The lady I spoke with said that I needed to check with DHS window 35 which deals with immigrent and visa stuff... the guy there told me I need to get my i-card and then I can submit the I-130 package from here in the Philippines. The i-card will be good for a 1 year stay and cost me about 10 to 15,000p but it is supposed to be a one time charge and according to another customer, it is permanent.

When finished there, Nora and I went to St. Lukes clinic and she only had to wait about 10 minutes to be seen so that went quite well. From there we stopped at Chow King for some lunch.

We came back home then and I napped for about 30 minutes then we headed out on the journey from hell, going on the same road we took this morning only following it all the way to SM Mall Marilao... Actually, once you get past the national hiway interchange it went pretty quick. Nora shopped for essentials, and a little food and I surfed the net a little bit. We stopped for a snack at the food court.

The trip home proved to be ardouous also because it was not only rush hour (rush???) but the exhaust was overbearing... and then there was the 'Nose'... plus Nora wanted to stop at Divine market on the way.

Back home now and all is well, Nora put the stuff away that she got at the Divine market. Dinner will be about 7 I suppose, there is no reason that I know of that will cause us to rise early tomorrow...

From denny's iPad...

Wedding pics II

Wedding pics

Nearing the end of this month already...

Sept 29, 2010

Last night was rough, the baby had a temperature, probably associated with his teething. Bitchy and fussy all night, Nora and Jenny were up and down all night with him.

I woke before her this morning and made us coffee. We drank that and then she wanted to go to the market to get stuff for lunch and dinner. I have her 1,000p and she spent almost half of it already... money don't go too far here, regardless of what people might think, we sure don't live high on the hog.

One of the baby goats, the female was hit by a truck on the main road that connects with our lane here. She is able to stand, but she doesn't respond nor does she bleat at all. I think probably a concussion and possible internal injuries. No external bleeding or apparent broken bones so who knows if she will make it or not.

A normal Wednesday as far as St. Lukes clinic goes. Tomorrow, Nora says she will go to NSO and get the copies of our marriage certificate and then I will go with her on Friday for my appt with the US Embassy where I hope to find out if I can file my I-130 spouse visa request while here in the Philippines.

I am not sure what the remainder of today will provide, but right at the moment, there is a nice breeze and it is not too uncomfortable with the exception of the ever present bugs... especially the friggin ants...

From denny's iPad...

More of the day that I call the 28th of hell

Sept 28, 2010

Nora was up at about 6:15am and started the day, Joyce has school early today. I've not been outside so don't know what the day looks like, Nora made coffee and is now in the living room with Joyce and Jenny. Baby denny has already had a bath and so has Joyce. I am still here in bed typing this blog entry...

We will go to the internet cafe this morning and make appointments at the embassy for me and another bureau for Nora to update her status in her passbook. I need to find out how to file my I-130 form from here in the Philippines. I am so used to the convenience of just picking up a phone and making a call, here you need to appear for almost all information. Somewhere down the road, this will all seem comical but for now it is just a royal pain in the arse...

When we arrived, the girl running the cafe for her uncle said that they were having a bit of trouble getting the internet up and running. After a short time it was up and we went to the US Embassy site and I made an appointment for Friday, 1 October at 8:45am. I also applied for an appointment for Nora at DFA so she can update her passport.

Today is seeming to be difficult for me, seems like everything is getting under my skin and I don't like that feeling. I know it is hard here, but not just for me, for everyone concerned so I pray that God will give me more patience.

Alex paid me back the 1,000p he borrowed yesterday. I don't mind fronting him funds if the payback is fulfilled as agreed. If not, it puts a bad taste in my mouth. Nora left shortly after 12pm to go to St. lukes for her daily treatment. Speaking of which, I just created another TextExpander snippet for that: St. Lukes clinic.

I chatted with Lollie for a little while this late morning, they are in the final preps for their trip to NYC. I sure hope that they have a great time and take lots of pictures to share with us.

Baby denny has been a particularly annoying little shithead this morning so far, cries for no known reason and just really fussy... no temperature according to Jenny so I don't know what his actual problem is other than being a baby.

From denny's iPad...

Monday, a new week begins

Sept 27, 2010

Well the sun rises on the 1 month anniversary of my arrival back in the Philippines. Amazing, time goes on regardless of the path it takes, irrevocably trudging along at it's own solemn pace. I can only wonder what the month of October will bring us.

The money from RemitHome should arrive here sometime this week I would imagine. At first glance, it seems a very good service and I hope that future results prove that to be true.

As today is Monday, the grind starts anew for Nora... 5 more trips to Manila on the various busses and trudging thru the mirade of bodies that infest the streets of Manila daily.

From denny's iPad...

The adventure... continues NOW !!!

Sept 25, 2010

Another day, this is Saturday, and later, after lunch, Nora and I are to meet with Aileen Cantuba at the SM mall... probably for lunch. (on me of course).

The children were told last night of the chores that they need to accomplish this weekend, nothing hard, but it should give them a sense of responsibility and also accomplishment... two values that I hold high.

Coffee and breakfast of noodles... hmmmm not exactly fine cuisine, but it fills the belly.

My two pesky bug bites are looking much better, the Hydrocortizone is having a good effect.

We will leave about 11am for the mall according to my most knowledgable wife... at least for now. I found that applying a little baby powder to my face makes the electric shaver work much better... without it, my skin is damp and the razor will not slide smoothly. The kids are busy with their chores, with the exception of Jenny whose chore is mopping the floors, and I think she is wise to wait until the house is less busy to attempt that one.

I hope to find some electrical connectors and perhaps some wood today, but not in the mall but perhaps in a hardware store.... seems there is an ACE hardware store in the mall but I could be mistaken, it would not be the first time.

I just set up an email account for Nora that apple mail can access, tested it and it works great.

We left for the SM mall at about 11:15am. We wandered around a little bit then found the ACE Hardware store where I was able to find all the things I wanted around the house. Nora picked up a few items also then we stopped and had a couple of brownies and surfed the net using the free wifi. We stopped at the supermarket and Nora bought some coffee and I found a box for my tools.

We met up with Aileen at Chow King, Nora and aileen had lunch and I had a Halo Halo. We chatted for awhile then left and Nora looked for a donut shop but ended up getting the kids some pastry. We then came back home. The evening was pretty quiet and we went to bed about 10. I told Nora to look under the blanket on her pillow and then she found the bracet I had gotten for her.

From denny's iPad...

May 14, 2010 7:48 AM

I did not sleep well last night, I’m pretty sure it was a result of jet lag and continued worry about Nora and how things are going to go with her treatment. I got up this morning a little bit before 6 AM and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. Ralph he was there and then later some of the others came in and was kind like a little reunion. They all mentioned that I had lost weight which I didn’t realize until I was on the scales this morning and weighed 200 pounds. It’s a beautiful day outside nice and sunshine but last night I could not get warm at all. So I put my fuzzy blanket on the bed and that helped a little bit but I may have to turn the heat up a little bit until I can acclimatize myself to Oregon weather again. I need to call USCIS and also go to Wells Fargo Bank and perhaps call Dr. Thayer and make an appointment with him.

Overcast today but not raining this is "loose ends day"

This morning I awoke at three o’clock and decided it was way too early so I went back to sleep until about 5 AM. I called Nora and she was in the bedroom with the baby and also Jenny. The baby started to cry so Nora told Jenny to feed it... babies generally only cry that they’re hungry or if the messed their britches. After talking to her, I stripped the bed and we made with fresh sheets and pillowcases and put the old ones in the washing machine and turned it on. From there I went down to McDonald’s for coffee. Left McDonald’s at about 8:30 AM and came home. I packed up the big suitcase and I’m working on my carry-on medicines have all been packed as have the accessories for both my camera and the phone. Itinerary and other necessary items are ready to go I finished cleaning the living room and kitchen so that’s all done now. A few last-minute items to put in the suitcase and I am done. I cannot tell you when I might update this blog again it will be after Nora and I arrive in Basud and get settled in. It is a very exciting time.

Overcast but not raining typical winter Saturday...

My little brush clearing escapade yesterday has yielded some rather testy results. Hopefully it will resolve itself in the next day or so. I awoke numerous times during the night for some odd reason. At 5:38 AM I called Nora. I woke her up and only spoke with her for about four minutes as she was pretty groggy. I got dressed and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. I am home now it is about 8:45 AM. I don’t have any particular plans for this day, tomorrow will be the day when I tie up the loose ends and do my final preparations for my trip. It is very exciting and the anticipation is great. Enjoy your Saturday and I will also enjoy mine.

A little bit wet but not a bad day...

I started waking up this morning about 3:30 AM and then about every 45 minutes thereafter waiting for the time to make my goodnight call to Nora in the Philippines. Finally I called her at about 4:50 AM as quickly she answered the phone she asked me to call her back as she was in the middle of taking care of the baby. I said okay. About 5:15 AM I returned her call and the baby was fine and we had a nice conversation for about 15 minutes. She told me that we would chat on the Internet today which is Saturday in the Philippines at our normal time. It will be the last time that we chat on the Internet until I arrive in Manila. Went down to McDonald’s for coffee and then about 8:45 AM I came back home. I moved the Bose to the bedroom and put one of Nora’s pictures on the love seat in its place. I will pick up Maria at 1 PM and bring her here to shore a few things that need to be done just before I return home from the Philippines with Nora. Nothing big, just a few things she needs to see that I will take her home. Well folks, here it is the first day of the new year... let’s hope that the Oregon ducks come home with a smile on their face. Take care and enjoy.

Rain, rain, rain and more rain.

Three days to go and a wakeup... WoW!!

I woke this morning about 4:10 AM and then laid there till about 4:30 AM and decided to call Nora and wish her a happy New Year’s. She was quite happy to get my call and yet she questioned me why do you call so early. I told her I could not help it I had just woke up early and decided that I wanted to talk to her. She said that she had baked chicken today and also bought a cake at the market for tonight. She also told me the house was full of relatives and that they all want to meet me and that at midnight they would celebrate the new year and eat dinner. I told her that she had my best wishes and they should have a good time and she said we will celebrate next year together as a family and I said I really look forward to that. I talked to her for a total of about 17 minutes. I told her we will not talk on the Internet today but probably on Saturday as today is a holiday and the Internet café will be closed. She agreed that that would be a good idea. Well ladies and gentlemen today is the last day of 2009... what a tumultuous year this has been. I can honestly say that with the exception of meeting my future wife has not been a year I would care to remember. If you party tonight please do so keeping safety in mind both yours and those around you. If you possibly can take a cab where you’re going stay off of the roads. And I wish you the very best this new year coming. See you next year.

It is still dark and it looks cold...

I woke at 4:22am and said “No”, not yet then rolled over and dozed off till about 4:56 and decided to call Nora. She answered the phone on the 4th ring, she was watching some TV in the living room and had not yet gone to bed. We chatted for about 14 minutes. She told me that we may not be able to chat on Friday (that would be the last time we chat until I am there) because 1 January is of course a holiday and the internet cafe may not be open... I said ‘Not to worry’ if we can it is ok and if not no big deal. We wished each other good days, I told her to dream of me if she can and she told me to have a nice day... If she’d been here, I would have pulled her close, snuggled up and drifted back to sleep... as it is, I will bare the cold day and have lousy coffee at McDonald's and listen to the babble of my friends... Take care everyone, the new year is almost upon us...

Dark and it appears to be cold and foggy too....

This morning, I didn’t wake early nor did I wake up during the night. Slept pretty good actually... the phone alarm woke me up. When I called Nora, she was a little worried because I have been calling her closer to 9pm and this morning it was about 20 minutes later... Now she knows how I feel when she doesn’t answer the phone I suspect. Well, time is really moving now. I will be in Manila next Tuesday. Take it a moment at a time folks... be careful out there.

Fog and ice... Carefully must we go this day

Woke up the first time at 3:15am and then rolled over to go back to sleep. Next time was at 5:05am so I decided to call Nora and tell her goodnight. She was awake this time... She tells me that the baby sleeps in her bed along with Joyce ann... must be crowded. Nora told me the baby sleeps all day and wants to play at night... goofy little guy. She showed me a picture of him yesterday whilst we were chatting on the Messenger. He is good looking little guy, just like his grampa. Today is the last Monday I will stay in the US for awhile. A new saga will begin next Monday as the airplane departs Portland for Seattle and ultimately Manila. I cannot begin to explain how exciting this is for me. Hope you all have a wonderful week. Make the most of each moment, once it passes, you can NEVER get it back.

Still dark outside and I think rather chilly... looks wet too.

I woke up about 5:10am and decided to give Nora a call in case she wanted to go to bed early... She was already asleep, I had to call her back 3 times before she finally heard the phone... I suppose I was remembering how she used to stay up really late in Korea watching TV. Now, in Basud with the family, she is going to bed much earlier... That will fit in with my lifestyle quite nicely. I am not really too much of a night owl. I am going to coffee at McDonald's now so all of you have a great Sunday.

Doesn't look foggy, but I bet it's cold outside...

I awoke once at 3:38 then went back to sleep until 5:16am. I decided to call Nora in case she was tired and wanted to go to bed early. We had a nice little chat and I asked her to pray for Michael and Lollie and Gareth as they are not doing too well dealing with Michael’s death. She said that she will and also told me about the funeral mass that the Catholics perform when a member dies. I will go to coffee at McDonald’s, Nora told me I will not be going there after she gets here because she wants to make my coffee in the mornings plus she wants to make us hot chocolate also. Wow, that will be nice. Have a wonderful day, I know that many will be heading out to return unwanted gifts but try to keep a good attitude.

Foggy again...

I did not sleep well last night, woke up many times... too much wine I guess. Tried unsuccessfully to call Nora 6 times this morning, it just rings 15 times then gives me a message. She is likely watching a movie or the kids turned down the phone again. I will call a little later. I don’t know if McDonald's will be open today, but I will drive down there and see anyway. Merry Christmas to everyone.

A foggy this morning but not nearly as cold as was predicted...

I really slept good last night, did not have the alarm set on the phone as Nora had told me she wanted to call me. At about 7 AM this morning she did call, but her phone cut out so I ended up calling her back and we chatted for about 20 minutes and I wished her a very Merry Christmas. After we hung up, I dressed and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. After that I went to Wal-Mart and picked up my prescription for Ambien which will make the flight from Seattle to Seoul Korea much easier. I don’t have much scheduled for today as it is Christmas Eve, I will however, go to Melissa’s place for dinner at 6 PM this evening. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas Eve and that all your shopping is done. I know the last part of that wish probably is not true. Anyway, please do enjoy the day.

Foggy and cold this morning...

I woke up the first time at about 4 AM and rolled over and went back to sleep the next time I woke up it was about 5 AM and I decided to call Nora in case she wanted to go sleep early. I actually woke her up and we only spoke for just a few moments and I told her to go back to sleep and we would chat today when she got to the Internet café after taking care of some business at the hospital. I am glad I don’t have work today, I don’t really like to drive in the fog. This afternoon I will stop at LinnCo and conduct a little business and then come home. For those of you who must travel today please do so carefully and keep in mind that other people may not be as diligent in their driving habits as you are. Please, be safe.

It is still dark outside...

I woke up at 4:30 then dozed off till a little past 5am. Tried to call Nora, but no answer. I got up and dressed and called her back about 5:20 and she is on the way back to basud from Daet... awfully late for her to be out so I suppose she was at the hospital with Jenny and the baby. I hate being this far from them. Oh well, it will not be for many more days anyway. I have deliveries today and after that I will only have one more set of deliveries and I will be done at the Senior Center for awhile. I think I will clean the main bathroom today. Have a nice day everyone. Only 18 clients today all but one was home. Back home, put the wheel and tire back on the Mini and moved it to the other side of the garage and backed it in... hot chocolate and raisin toast for lunch... I will go to Bi-Mart after lunch then to Wal★Mart and get the sleeping pills I ordered from Dr. Thayer... I haven’t heard from the other Doctor yet either.

Actually, only 13 and a wakeup...

Called Nora at 5am, thinking that after the last couple of days she might want to go to bed early and hopefully get a good nights sleep. She was very happy, now that Jenny has given birth to a healthy 5.5lbs baby boy. Mommy and son are in good health and in the hospital yet, might come home on Wednesday but Nora is not sure yet...

Nora will go to Daet, to the registrar office to submit the paperwork for the baby's birth certificate... can you believe that Jenny and Nora are naming this child after me... what an honor that is. I was really knocked off my feet when Nora told me that. I will deliver meals today and tomorrow and then again next week on Monday and Tuesday and those will be the last ones for awhile. Enjoy the day folks...

Early and also dark outside...not raining though

I woke up the first time about 3:30 and rolled over and snoozed back to sleep. The next time was around 4:45 or so. I am not sure why I have been waking up like this lately, it might be in anticipation of the coming baby of Jenny or maybe the trip... probably a little of both. Today, I will attend church with Maria and perhaps speak to the minister about performing a wedding ceremony in my home. I am not sure yet how Nora feels, she said she wants to think on it a little. I can understand that as she is Catholic. No particular plans today, I may do a good cleaning of my bathroom and that will finish off the master bedroom with the exception of changing the linen just before I leave. Have a great Sunday to everyone...

I found out this afternoon that Nora's eldest, Jenny gave birth to a brand new baby boy... I am a Grand daddy again... I love it.

Damp and may rain again today... warm though

I woke at 2:30am then back to sleep till around 4:30. Dozed on and off until about 5:20 when I called Nora. Nothing has happened with Jenny... Nora is worried about her as a good mother would be but I told her that Maria told me most filipina girls run late in their first childbirth... my only hope is to reassure Nora and help alleviate her fears. I am certain it will be just fine. It is now 5:41 AM and I am getting this update out of the way. I may write more upon my return from the McDonald's coffee time... we shall see. McDonald's was OK, the coffee always reeks but that is OK also. A quick trip to the Senior Center to dispose of the boxes then back home where I made some oatmeal and hot chocolate. Kitchen is now clean. I also put my paperwork and Maria’s in envelopes to put into my carryon luggage for the trip. Hope you all find something rewarding to do today... I am tying up loose ends...

Overcast but no rain so far...

I woke up the first time at 2:30 AM then went back to sleep then I woke up again at 4:30 AM and dosed until about 5:38 AM at which time I called Nora, she is worried because Jenny is late and she has a lot to do. I did tell her that we received the cards she mailed and she was quite happy about that She did also tell me that we would probably not chat on the Internet considering Jenny could deliver at any time. I told her not to worry about that just take care of Jenny. She will call me if there is any change. I got up and got dressed then proceeded down to McDonald’s for coffee. After that I decided to go to Wal-Mart and send the money gram to Nora for the bus fare that we will need when I am there. That went without a hitch so then I went down to the grocery part of Wal-Mart and bought six cans of soup that were on sale and happened also be very low calorie content. Back home now having some hot chocolate and a couple pieces of raisin toast. I hope you all enjoy your day and I’ll chat with you later.

Warm this morning and a light rain.

I woke early this morning about 3:45 AM then dozed off again until nearly time for the phone alarm to go off. I called Nora and spoke with her for about 12 minutes and then hung up. I then got out of bed, got dressed and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. While Maria was having breakfast I spoke to her and relayed what Nora told me had happened between her eldest daughter and the parents of the boy who is the father of her child. Although I would like to address a situation when I am there about them bad mouthing Nora and Jenny, Maria advised me that as a American in the Philippines I need to stay out of that situation.

Probably good advice but the chivalrous part of me cannot help but want to come to my future wife and daughters rescue. It will be a battle... and I am not accustomed to sitting on the sideline during a fight. Hopefully my good lord will keep me peaceful and passive. I stopped at Wells Fargo on the way home and took care of some minor banking and also notified my credit card company of my impending trip. Everything seems to be going very nicely. I don’t know that we will see any sunshine today, but make the most of the time you have and please do enjoy the day.

It is overcast and cloudy today I expect to see rain...

I woke a little bit early this morning about 5 AM and waited until about 5:22 AM to call Nora. She didn’t have a lot to say this and this evening she was watching television with the children. She did tell me that she received both letters that I had written earlier this month and she was happy about that. The one special letter I wrote her she will read later this evening before she goes to bed. After hanging up with her I got up and got dressed and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. After coffee I went down to Wells Fargo Bank and change to pin number on my travel card. After that I came back home. Then cleaned up the kitchen from last night’s dinner made some hot chocolate and an English muffin for breakfast. Have a nice day everyone keep your powder dry...

December 15, 2009 2:16 PM

I didn’t wake up until the phone alarm on off and even then I had to call Nora four times it seems as she was watching a television show “so you think you can dance” and she didn’t hear the phone ring. Evidently her children also used the phone and they had turned the ringer volume way down. I had 20 meals today with one no-show. I stopped at Safeway and filled up the pickup was gas and then went to Albany. I stopped at the Elm Street pharmacy to pick up my sedative which they wanted to charge me $10 for and I asked him if that wasn’t covered by my insurance which they said it was so I ended up paying only $1.96 for the bill versus the $10. I got into my appointment about 45 minutes early so the effects of the sedative actually didn’t it be until I was driving home I might add in a very relaxed state. I’ve been on the phone with AT&T trying to figure out why I can send text messages to Nora, but I cannot receive them from her. We are in the process of straightening that out I hope. If they cannot then I would assume a bill adjustment and would be appropriate. The MRI went well and the doctor/technician said that the pictures came out very well so hopefully I will hear from Dr. Thayer by the end of this week. Have a great day... I am working with ATT to get the text messages from Nora to work. Most of my evening was spent watching television. I am tired now so I will go to bed.

About 31° outside and a few slick spots.

I woke up about 3 AM this morning then went back to sleep and then woke up again at about 5:38 AM. I placed my ritualistic phone call to Nora, but the phone went directly to voicemail so my assumption is either the battery died or she forgot to plug it in after we spoke yesterday which is more than likely the cause. Got dressed and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. After that I went to the senior center and had 21 deliveries with one no-show. I had one new delivery on 12th St. that was very difficult to find. After deliveries, I stopped at megamart and got some milk and some dipping chips and a chicken breast for lunch. Enjoy the day ladies...

Much warmer, light rain and thankfully no ice...

I started waking up early this morning about 3:30 AM then again about 4:45 AM and then when the alarm to the phone went off at about 5:40 AM I called Laura spoke to her for about five minutes as we will be chatting on the Internet when she gets down to the café in Daet tomorrow. When she gets up in the morning it will only be 21 days for her to wait. Nothing special planned today after getting home from coffee, I’ve decided to have a raisin bagel for breakfast and perhaps some hot chocolate also. Well tomorrow is a work day I don’t know how many deliveries all have, but probably about 19 I did talk to Melba at McDonald’s this morning and she said the Filipinos will be rescheduling the Christmas party possibly for this next weekend. That is a good thing. Hope you all enjoy today tomorrow morning you can hit the rewind button and do it all again.

I was up early this morning.

I awoke before the alarm went off then made my phone call to my lady in the Philippines. I did inform her that if I go to the Christmas party this afternoon that I will be about four hours later calling her for our weekly Sunday phone call. I got dressed and drove down to McDonald’s albeit very carefully, the roads are a sheet of ice this morning. When I got there, there was a sign on the door that said they would not open until 7 AM so I came back home.

It took 4 tries to get up the driveway and into the garage... I would not want to be walking today...

The forecast is for just rain this afternoon although with the temperatures hovering around the freezing mark that could still make for very precarious driving.

Dear friends please please be careful, not only for yourself but for those around you and always expect the unexpected... my friend, Leann, can attest to the fact that the emergency rooms get very busy during this type of weather.

Another cold morning but warmer than the preceding three days

I woke this morning again before 5 AM, actually I think the time was about 4:25 AM and then I drifted in and out of sleep for a while and about 5:38 AM I picked up the phone and turned off the alarm and called Nora. She was already in bed but not asleep. From there I got up and went down to McDonald’s to have coffee. All my typical friends were there, and I was surprised that Delbert was there. He told me that they had lost power and so he decided to come in where it would be warm. When Julia got there she told me that someone had hit a power pole on Waterloo Road and that’s what knocked out the power. Nothing exciting is planned for today.

Another cold morning but only 25 days to go...

I had dreams last night I’m not really certain what they were about, but they were a little bit disturbing anyway, I woke up at about 5:30 AM and at about 5:39 AM I called my lady. About five minute conversation and she was off to sleep. Then I got up wash my face and got dressed and went out for coffee at McDonald’s. After talking with Maria she had her breakfast I came back home and cleaned the kitchen toasted English muffin and made some hot chocolate. Today I am my appointment with Dr. Thayer at 2 PM and hopefully he will be a will to tell me why I have the weakness in my left foot. Stay warm my friends the cold is not good.

9° that's not really cold that's bitterly nasty weather.

I woke about 5 AM this morning and laid in bed and finally picked up the phone about 5:26 AM to call Nora and we’re sure a good night. After we hung up I got up and got dressed turned the heat up to 68° and then left to go to McDonald’s’s for coffee. I stayed there until Maria had her breakfast then I took the rim over to let Schwab and showed Brandon what I needed and he will check and see if you can find a replacement for me. I told him to keep it and I would check back with him in about a week. I call now cleaned up the dishes and posted an English muffin and made some hot chocolate for breakfast. I turned the heat up to 70° and it feels much nicer here. In McDonald’s it could not have been much over 60° in the lobby area... not very comfortable for customers. My friends, please stay warm stay hydrated keep your gloves on.

It looks like approximately 16° out and that my friends is cold.

I woke up this morning about 5:15 AM and then laid there until the alarm went off on the phone and then made my morning call to Nora. I had to call her back because she didn’t wake up the first time she told me that she had gone to bed early because she had not slept the night before. I told her no problem that I would talk to her on the Internet later on today and she said that would be fine so I wished her good night and then got up got dressed and went to McDonald’s for coffee. Maria will come over today sometime and bring the things that she wants me to take to the Philippines for her. And I thoroughly expect that Myron will show up wanting me to write a letter to the girl he jilted in China. It seems my life is its own little soap opera however I feel like I’m more in the directors chair then the actor’s chair so I like that. After delivering meals I went to the hospital and had some blood drawn. I hope I can get off of the cholesterol medication and downgrade my blood pressure medication. Dr. Thayer seems to think that can happen. To each and everyone I wish a wonderful day and I will talk to you tomorrow...

Very chilly this morning it was 16°

I woke up just before the phone alarm this morning and called Nora and only spoke with her for four minutes. Then down to McDonald’s for coffee. I left McDonald’s at about 8:40 AM to go to the senior center for my deliveries. I had 21 clients today and one no-show. I’ve noticed a little numbness in my left leg and it seems like my foot is plopping down differently than it should. I don’t know if it’s a medication problem or something else there aren’t any other symptoms that I noticed. I will mention that the doctors they are today when I see him and see what he says. I’m also thinking it might be hunger related. I just called consumer power and switched over to an easy pay plan that allows me to pay the same amount each month. Having some toast now hope you all have a great day.

Not as cold, but not warm either...

The phone alarm woke me this morning, I called and unfortunately, woke Nora, she had fallen asleep waiting for my call, we only spoke for less than a minute and will meet on the internet later today. Coffee at McDonald's then home again. Cleaned the kitchen and made toast with peanut butter and hot chocolate for breakfast. Have a great day, mine will be spent doing laundry...

Very cold this morning 27° at 6:30 AM and going down...

I woke a little bit before the phone alarm went off this morning and made my daily call to Nora to wish her a good nights sleep and see how her day went. She was in good spirits but told me she did not sleep well last night for some reason. I told her that hopefully when I am there she will sleep well... when one shares a comfortable and close relationship with other it oftentimes brings serenity and peacefulness. A little later this morning I think I will go and visit JJ at the rehab center and then perhaps stop and buy some hot chocolate at the MegaMart. Tomorrow I will do laundry. Stay warm my friends there’s a chill in the air...

Very cold again this morning to Windows on my pickup frosted over while I was having coffee...

I didn’t wake until the alarm on the clock went off at 5:20 AM this morning and after a brief eight minute phone call to the Philippines I got out of bed got dressed washed my face and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. I had to scrape my window onto pickup when I got ready to come home because it had frosted over. Back home at about 8:45 AM at which time I took care of some personal issues and then cleaned up the kitchen and made some hot chocolate. I will not be having breakfast this morning as Myron wants to take me out to lunch today. It is very cold outside so I hope those of you who read this are able to spend the day inside where it’s nice and warm...

It is Thursday beautiful clear and cold...

I woke up this morning once about 3:30 AM and went back to sleep, then the alarm on the phone will be up and I made my daily call to my sweetheart to wish her a good night. I then got up and made the bed and wash my face and got dressed and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. It is now 9 AM and I’ve been home for about 10 minutes have my toast going in my hot chocolate cooking so pretty soon I will have my breakfast. Enjoy the day everyone it’s going to be cold but it will be pretty.

Today is Wednesday and it is a very beautiful but cold morning...

I woke this morning a little bit before the alarm went off on my phone, and when it did finally go off I called Nora to wish her a wonderful evening we had a great seven minute conversation and I felt very elated at the end of it. I got up, washed my face and got dressed, and headed down to McDonald’s for coffee. Ralph was already there as were some others. Myron came in and he is going to come here today at 1 PM with the intent of purchasing airline fare back to China. I dropped off my mileage sheet at the senior center and then drove down by Claudine’s house, and no answer at her door then I stopped at Rhodes Warden and asked Don Riemer to give me a price on some term insurance that would cover my remaining mortgage. Back home now, cleaned up the dishes, made some toast and hot chocolate for breakfast. I called the credit card companies to notify them of my impending travel out of the country so that is taken care of now I will call the water company and ask them about turning off the water at the meter while I am not in the home. I always wonder about a broken water pipe and the accrued costs of water flowing constantly while I’m gone. So having them turned off the street just makes good sense. Have a lovely day everyone and I’ll be back tomorrow...

Well it's foggy out there and cold.

I woke up this morning before 5 AM and called Nora to wish her a goodnight. She was in very good spirits which is always nice. We will be chatting on the Internet tomorrow morning when she wakes up about 10 AM is about the time that she shows up at the Internet café. At the senior center after copy I only had 16 clients which was not bad and I was finished with my deliveries before 11 AM. Stopped at bi-Mart check my numbers and of course my number was off by four so I won nothing. I also stopped at postal connections to see about a mailer to the Philippines with registered and signing for it will cost me about $40. Also when I was downtown I turned in the authorization letter to LinnCo and also Wells Fargo Bank. Back home now and thinking of the things I need to do. Make sure and keep your powder dry but have a good day...

Cold and foggy but still Monday...

Woke up with a splitting headache this morning, one of those you are hoping to only have once in a great while. A couple of Excedrin seemed to stem the headache, but I will take a couple more in a few minutes to kill the dragon. Not much new, I have been cut back to 2 days delivering, just Monday and Tuesday and that will be gone by the end of the month in prep for my long trip. Set up a special account at the bank just for travel purposes... not a bad idea to have an account that thieves can only have limited access to your funds... Have a great day folks...

A Thanksgiving to remember

Holy cow, what a wonderful vacation I had over Thanksgiving. The trip going to California was uneventful with the exception that it was wet, I did run into snow on Ashland on the backside I should say and also over the Siskiyou’s summit. Little mini never spun a wheel... I was very impressed. I left the house at 5:20 AM and arrived at Lollie and Gareth's doorstep at 2:30 PM that afternoon. And had no problems whatsoever. The visit was quite nice we really had a great time and Thanksgiving was probably one of the best I’ve ever had... it’s hard to imagine putting that many people in the kitchen without having a few toes stepped on but it really really went well. I left their house at 5:10 AM this morning and arrived here at the house at 1:30 PM. Set the cruise on about 70 mph and just let her role. Traffic was a lot heavier coming back but it seemed to be quite well managed. I hope you all had as good a holiday as I did not looking forward to Christmas and that will be the last one hopefully that I spend alone here in the house... take care and enjoy the day.

Brisk, Blue and Beautiful...

Sacramento... what can be said about the weather here?? It is one of the places where sunshine and clear skies seem to predominate thruout the year...

It is lovely today and the forecast for the ThanksGiving day festivities is positive so far.

I am having a good time, My lady received 4 letters from me this week and my newest and youngest daughter got (finally, it's the second one) birthday card from me... she turned 12 and this is the first birthday card she has ever gotten... it meant a lot to me to make sure she had one.

All is going as planned so God is providing a smooth road so far. It isn't easy, but it is doable if one puts forth the effort. I only know that the end result will justify the effort.

I hope you all have a rewarding and wonderful holiday this ThanksGiving... Gobble, Gobble my friends...

---

California is just like Oregon... WET !!!

The trip to Sacto went well, nothing but rain till I passed Ashland, from there it was snow till I came to Lake Shasta... the Mini handled it well, but passing a sand truck was tricky.

The car did well and I actually made the trip in 8 1/2 hours which is a record for me. I stopped once to get gas and another time for a nature call and that was the only time I wasn't under the wheel...

The Mini could use a good wash job but other than that, it did very well.

Hope all is going well for you my friends...

---

Warmer but not really warm

I woke up at 4:30 then drifted back to sleep till about 5:15 and laid in bed until I called the Philippines at 5:30. The connection was really poor, the first time that has happened to me. Off to McDonald's for coffee then to the post office to mail the letter to Nora and the children. Have a great day everyone...

It is a beautiful day, but it is chilly outside...

I woke this morning at about 5:10 AM from a dream that I considered to be quite disturbing in a somewhat oddly comical way. I was dreaming that I was writing in 1966 Chevrolet impolitic convertible with somebody driving that was apparently a good friend. It’s somehow the conversation ended up that he had taken Nora to a ballgame and that during the course of the game he had kissed her and my prevailing thought was was a passionate kiss I don’t where that came from. Anyway another dream that didn’t make sense. At about 5:30 AM I decided to go ahead and call her to wish her good night and I told her about the dream and she laughed which was an appropriate response for such an idiotic dream. Make you wonder at times what prompts the dreams that we have and what possible meanings they could have... Of course being a novice in dream research I have no idea of what the dream might have meant nor do I really care, I’ve had dreams like that before so this isn’t something new oftentimes our dreams remain undefined and literally without explanation. I was going to do laundry when I got home but have since decided to put it off until tomorrow after I finish deliveries. Tomorrow night I will pack up the Mini Cooper and head out early Friday morning for points south. I hope you all enjoy today and I hope your dreams are less confusing than mine.

Rain and cold out today...

I woke up frequently last night, partly because of the wind I think. I didn’t wake up to call Nora until the alarm went off at 6am. When I called her, it took a while for her to answer and it was apparent that she had fallen asleep. We chatted for 8 minutes. We will be on the internet today, she said around 9:30 or 10am. Keep your powder dry today my friends... it’s nasty outside.

Thank God for Monday one less I have to wait.

I awoke this morning at about a quarter till 6 AM and called Nora to wish her pleasant dreams and a good night. Off then to McDonald’s for coffee I was fortunate today I got the opportunity to visit with Jack Weller for a little while. I stayed down there until about nine then went to the senior center to prepare for meal deliveries. I had 19 clients today, but the bushes were not home. So when I got back to the senior center I had their meals put in the refrigerator. Have a lovely day everyone we will do it all again tomorrow.

Sunday, cloudy and cool and rain is on the way...

I woke up about 3 AM this morning and use the restroom and then went back to bed. Woke up again about five, fell back asleep and then got up about 6:10 AM this morning. Went down to McDonald’s for coffee and the only one there was Ralph, and he didn’t stay all that long, by 7:30 AM he was gone home already. I stuck around until about 8:45 AM and then came home where I cleaned up the kitchen dishes and made some oatmeal and some hot chocolate for breakfast. Not too sure what today will bring, this evening I will log on to messenger and Nora and I will chat for an hour or so. Other than that, not much planned for this somewhat dreary day. Today is a special day because it is God’s day, Sunday has always been reserved as a day of rest for those who have that luxury. I do hope that you all have a wonderful day.

Today is starting off with a lot of blue sky but very brisk temperature.

I woke up about 5 AM this morning then laid there till about 5:40 AM and made my call to Nora to wish her a good nights sleep. I will be calling her about 7 PM my time so that I can talk to her after church. Went down a copy at about 6 AM and stayed there till a little after 8 AM. Then I went to mega Mart and purchased three cucumbers and four containers of light yogurt and three cans of Progresso “0” weight watcher value soup. This morning as I was going to get dressed I look in my closet to see what I wanted to wear and I picked out a pair of jeans that I haven’t been able to fit into for 10 years. I was able to put them on and button them up and still have room... my gosh I have lost some weight and some inches. I like it! I don’t have any special plans for this Saturday but I hope you all have a great day and make the most of it especially you “Beaver fans”.

Fall has fallen... temperatures have plummeted and the rains are abundant.

This morning I didn’t awake until almost 6:35 AM which was in quite a distinct contrast to what I’ve been doing the last couple of weeks waking at 5 AM or 5:30 AM. I got up and got dressed after washing my face and meandered down to McDonald’s for coffee with the group. Marie was going home for breakfast so when she came back she brought me some rice and spareribs to bring home. From McDonald’s I went to Safeway and bought another birthday card for Joyce Ann. And from there I went to the post office and mailed the card to her and also a letter containing separate letters to her and Kenneth and Jenny and Nora. I knew it would cost a little more than the typical $.98, it was actually more like a dollar $.65. I don’t know exactly how much the card was to mail, I also bought 10 more $.98 stamps. From there, back home, cleaned up the kitchen and ate the rice and spareribs that Marie sent which by the way was very good. I have a load of whites in the washing machine and that’s all the clothes that I will need to wash this weekend. This is not a good day for men nor beast to be outside I am certainly glad that I have a warm home to be in and my heart goes out to those who do not share that luxury. May each of you have a wonderful day, and be thankful for the things you have and in all actuality be thankful for some of the things you don’t have.

Cold and Rainy... and, my Friday

I tossed some last night, the rain on the roof sounded good, but it won’t be fun to deliver meals in. I finally woke at 5:00am then laid there in bed. I called Nora at about 5:34 to say good night. Life is always good, but sometimes it is truly GrEAt. It is the Great times that define our lives... Have a GREAT day !! Thank you Leann for your kind words...

Wet, damp, Wednesday, Fall... life is good

I woke up this morning about 5 AM, and laid there in bed trying to go back to sleep, but about 5:40 AM I rolled over and picked up my phone and called Nora to wish her good night. It was funny because she thought that she had told me not to call her today, but actually she did want me to call her. She really likes it when I call her before she goes to sleep. After the phone call I went down to McDonald’s for coffee I got there earlier than normal so I actually beat Ralph there. I sat with him and of course he spent the next two hours telling me about his trip through 12 states and 2600 miles and all of the associated stops and things that he saw while traveling with his son Johnny. The purpose of this trip was to go to Texas to see his eldest son which I found ironic in a way because they only spent six hours there. Ralph doesn’t have much of a tolerance for many things but part of that is because of his age. I sat with Maria as she had breakfast and I mentioned to her something that had been bothering me about one of the McDonald’s workers and she told me that the reason this lady was treating me the way she was is because she is jealous of the fact that I have become engaged to Nora. Evidently according to Maria this lady had her own ideas for me. I am flattered on one hand, but in all actuality she never would’ve been an interest in my life. Sometimes it’s sad the way people react when life doesn’t hand them what they think they deserve. Anyhow, that pretty much sums up how my day started. “Happy Veterans Day” to each and every one of you enjoy it in your own special way.

Beautiful day so far, blue skies abound...

Woke at the alarm and called Nora to wish her good night, she told me that somebody came by her home and reached in a window and stole her purse... Perhaps I will see if we can install screens over the windows when I am there. I don’t like thieves... Have a great day everyone.

Wet and windy at typical fall Monday...

I woke early this morning before 6 AM. Then laid there for a little while and decided finally to get up at about 6:25 AM. After washing my face and getting dressed I went down to McDonald’s for coffee. I waited around for Marie but she was going home to take Wayne’s breakfast to him and she asked if I would wait until she came back as she wanted to give me some maps to look at. After she got back it was about five minutes until 9 AM, I left and went to LinnCo. And deposited the check from Gareth and also my mileage check. At the senior center I had 18 clients today two of which were no-shows. Back home now cleaned up the kitchen and cut the meat off of the chicken that I will make sandwiches from and am in the process of boiling down the carcass for soup stock. Hope you all have a wonderful day try to stay out of the weather and above all else be happy.

Well today is Sunday and it's very wet and rather chilly out...

Well this morning I knew that I would not be calling Nora, so I’ve managed to sleep in until about 6:25 AM. Which was rather nice, I hope lying flat on my back which is also something nice that happens since I’ve lost weight and my snoring has become almost nonexistent. I got up and made my bed and then proceeded to go down to McDonald’s to have coffee. Delbert came in which was a very pleasant surprise as I have not seen him for almost 2 months. He looked well and told me he is going to go in for another sleep study. I wanted to suggest that perhaps a more aggressive approach to weight loss would help cure some of his problem but decided against saying anything. I stopped at megamart and picked up half-gallon of milk and some low-fat Philadelphia cream cheese a dozen eggs and a broiler chicken. Not that I walked out having spent right at $13. Home now and have a load of laundry washing. I hope you all enjoy Sunday and for those of you who do I hope you enjoyed a good service at church make the most of today.

A beautiful morning crisp and leaves on the ground...

I awoke this morning about 5 AM and rolled over and went back to sleep until about five minutes until 6 AM. At which time I turned off my phone alarm and made my call to Nora to wish her a good evening. She was feeling very good not sick anymore and she didn’t cough so I think she is well on the mend. We had a nice little conversation that lasted a whole six minutes. Then up and out of bed washed my face comb my hair and went down to McDonald’s for coffee. I came back home and picked up the letter that I was supposed to take with me to mail and went back to the post office to drop it off. Back home now cleaned up the kitchen and made some toast and hot chocolate for breakfast. In between that I cleaned the mirror in the bedroom which is certainly showing signs of its age. Nothing exciting planned for today but I am hoping that I will get something from the islands in the line of mail. To each and every one I wish a great Saturday and I hope you have a wonderful day.

Windy blustery and Fall for sure...

The tab key for MacJournal now acts differently, it takes you to the search window rather than the main body of the journal... I am up before 6 this morning, called Nora and told her good night and then up and dressed to go to coffee at McDonald’s. Ralph should be on the way to Texas... at least I hope he is... Have a good day everyone, it is Friday... one less that I have to wait...

It is cold out and supposed to rain quite heavily today

I went this morning about 5 AM, and decided to go back to sleep until the alarm went off at 6 AM but then at 5:30 AM I decided to go ahead and call Nora and wish her a good nights sleep. She seemed to be feeling much better, and told me she had been taking her medicine and that helped a lot. I am also certain that staying inside yesterday was better for her. Off to McDonald’s for coffee with the guys. Ralph will be leaving today with Johnny for Texas. Down to the senior center and deliver meals, I had 17 clients today. As I pulled back to the senior center after deliveries it started to rain. I am certainly glad I got the lawns mowed yesterday. I exchange the bad peppers for another jar this morning right after coffee. I made some toast and some hot chocolate for breakfast. Hopefully you will have a nice day this is my Friday thank goodness.

Fog, fog and more fog... cold and damp today

I woke up around 5am then returned to sleep until almost 6am. Got up, dressed and headed to McDonald’s. Along the way I stopped and mailed the letter to Nora. Typical morning with the coffee group. Ralph will be leaving for Texas tomorrow with his son johnny. Marie and I chatted some, she told me that she wrote to Nora yesterday so that is nice. On the way home, I stopped at MegaFoods and bought some bananas and also chips. I don’t eat many chips, normally about 8 or 10 of them with a half cup of salsa. I hope it warms up some today, I have the heater on now...

It is foggy and chilly out today

I woke early, 5:30 and decided to call Nora as it is 9:30pm there in Basud and she likely will be in bed already. She was, but not asleep yet. She told me she feels good today, no problem with her tummy. Joyce Ann’s card has not arrived yet... I cannot believe that, although, there were the Philippines holidays to take into account. I told her not to worry about going downtown to Daet this morning as it will be raining hard, but wait till later this morning and the rain is suppose to subside somewhat. Have a safe and wonderful day everyone.

Very cool out this morning about 36°

I woke a little early this morning and then kept drifting back off to sleep again. I finally got up at about 6 AM and got dressed and headed down for coffee. While there I decided that I needed to apologize to Ralph because part of what he said certainly seem to ring true after my other situation. That went well and I managed to stay down there until about 8:30 AM and I went to the senior center to deliver meals I started off with 19 clients but by the time I left it had dropped to 17 most all of my regulars. Back home now, cleaned up the kitchen and made some toast and this time had some raspberry jelly with it and some hot chocolate. I hope y’all have a great day it’s good to be a little chilly.

Sunday, yet another week is gone... thank God.

I woke up early today, before 5:30, when I looked over at the clock, my eyes were blurry and I thought it said 6:30 so up I sprang. Oddly enough, I am well rested so today will be a longer one for me... I must remember, as must you all, set your clocks back today.. seems weird to be doing in in November, as long as I can remember it was in October. I will go to McDonald's in a bit and start my day with the coffee group. May God bless each of you in ways only you can appreciate...but others can benefit from.

Overcast and drizzly but it's supposed to clear by this afternoon...

I awoke several times before the alarm was scheduled to go off and about 6:28 AM I called Nora to wish her a good night. She told me that her stomach was still bothering her. And also the card that I sent to Joyce Ann had not arrived yet and so perhaps you will not get the card until after her birthday even though I did send it almost 2 1/2 weeks before.

It is "All Saints" holiday in the Philippines. Came home from coffee and started the first of two loads of laundry and that will probably comprise my workload for the day. I may go down to hometown furniture and see if I can find a spring to repair my recliner with. I wish both Oregon teams luck in their games today I hope they are victorious. And in the event that they are not I still hope the fans have a good time...

It's Friday and it's cold out and overcast

I had a little bit of a troubled sleep last night knowing that Nora was sick and of course wanting to be there to comfort her was an impossibility. There’s an old saying that goes something about about the greater the distance the heart grows fonder, I’m not real sure about that, I know it certainly does grow more impatient. However I did tell her to take care of herself get plenty of rest and drink plenty of liquids. Not sure what she has but hopefully it’s something relatively simple. Not much on the agenda for today I need to buy a couple of C. cell batteries for the hot water heater and I did just go to mega foods and purchased six diet Pepsi sixpacks and a couple loaves of 12 grain bread and a bottle of hot peppers. Anyway have a good day...

Today is my Friday it is wet and dreary...

This morning, I started waking up at 3:30 AM and then 4:30 AM and then 5:30 AM and finally I called Nora at 6:25 AM. We chatted for a few moments and she told me that there is another typhoon on the way to the Philippines... God forbid! We then hung up after about six minutes and I went down to McDonald’s for coffee. I chatted with Marie this morning, and then went to the senior center to deliver my meals for the day. Ahead eight frozen meals to deliver also so it was a busy day. On the way home I stopped at megamart and bought 1/2 gallon of milk and also a roaster chicken already cooked. That will be my dinner. Back home now, cleaned up the kitchen and made some hot chocolate. To everyone I wish a good day.

It is definitely getting close to winter Brrrrrr!

Last night was a restless night it seemed that I had one dream after another and none of them were inter-connected. It disrupted my sleep so that when my phone alarm went off at 6:30 AM I was still quite tired. Nora told me that she received yet another letter from me and of course she was quite happy about that. She said that she and the children would be writing me another letter today which I dearly look forward to. If nothing else, having to wait for her arrival in our impending marriage is building patience in me. Dress warm my friends, there’s a bite in the air.

Tuesday morning a little dreary and a light drizzle but not bad.

I woke this morning about 5:30 AM and then drifted back to sleep until my phone woke me at 6:30 AM and then I called Nora to wish her a goodnight and pleasant dreams I also told her of receiving the letters yesterday and the effect that they had upon me. She was in a good mood also because she had received yet another letter from me, this one was the one that I had put the red maple leaf in. She really liked that. Now down to McDonald’s for coffee, I did get to talk to Marie Little bit, she was going to go home because Wayne was not working today. Myron, was there at all worried about confirming his flight and I showed him what to do and so he settled down to poor guy is like a potter water that’s just hovering around the boiling point. I am sure once he gets to China everything will be fine. Off to the senior center where I had 17 deliveries today. After deliveries I stopped at Bi-Mart to check my number but as usual mine was not shown. Back home now and having a couple of pieces of cinnamon raisin toast and some hot chocolate and that will take care of my lunch. I do hope that each and every one of you enjoy the day make the most of it after all it’s another week till next Tuesday.

Monday wet, wetter and soaked!

I woke this morning about 4:30am and then went back to sleep and was gently aroused by the alarm on my phone. Of course that is my calling to dial Nora's number in the Philippines and wish her a good night. She had great news, her Taiwan’s security clearance came yesterday and also a letter from me so she was in an extremely good mood. After I hung up with her I went down to McDonald’s for coffee, stayed there until about 8:45am and then went to the senior center to prepare to deliver meals. While I was there the sky opened up and dumped about a ton of rain. I pretty much got wet on every delivery, and I had two more deliveries today for a total of 18. After deliveries I stopped at the Lebanon dog and had an order of biscuits and gravy... after checking calories for that meal I’m very glad I only have it once every couple of weeks. That pretty much ate up all my spare calories for today. Back home now watching it rain and of course waiting for the mail to arrive to see if I get anything from the islands. I hope y’all can stay dry today, but if you have to be out in this stuff dress appropriately.

Is a nice day today but very cold...

I walked to the alarm on my phone this morning at 6:15 AM and placed a call to the Philippines... which is now going to be my daily routine so that I can wish nor a good nights sleep as she is going to bed as I am waking up. I know it’s funny, to see somebody in what used to be called stages of puppy love I suppose mine of course is a more advanced situation than that but the feelings are still the same the fluttering of the heart and the quickening of the pulse. I don’t really care how it’s described, I enjoy the feeling and I feel so fortunate to have recaptured the ability to love. My fondest hope would be that each and every one of you experience some degree of this feeling. Anyway today is a day to spend inside I don’t have much to do considering all my housework is done and the laundry is done so I think perhaps I’ll read the paper and maybe enjoy the race at Martinsville. Have a wonderful day everyone, tomorrow is turn and burn.

Saturday...

I woke up at 5am, layed in bed until 5:30 then got up. Not raining today so that is good I guess... I will be going to coffee soon, then we shall see where the day leads. Back home from having coffee and I decided today was the day... so I gets out my endust and I proceed to dust everything in sight, including the end tables, the coffee table, that the leather furniture, the lamps, everything on the entertainment center everything that had a flat surface that could contain dust. I feel better now (I really don’t like dusting). Now I’ve had my cinnamon raisin toast and am enjoying a cup of hot chocolate and that will conclude my breakfast and will likely be the biggest meal that I read today. I seem to have reached a plateau in my weight loss so I need to nudge it a little bit. The weather today is a little bit iffy so I most likely will find other things to take care of in house. I hope y’all have a wonderful weekend!

It's monsoon time, the rains are here for the day.

I awoke to the sound of rain this morning, that Peter Pan or of the raindrops hitting the roof was a soothing and gentle sound and almost made me wish I could stay in bed. But life being what life is, I got up and got dressed and headed down to McDonald’s for coffee. Myron was there, all worried that it was Saturday so I had to remind them it was only Friday. He is very nervous about leaving for China. I assured him, everything would be fine. At about 8:10 AM Maria was ready to have breakfast so I joined her and we chatted as we do almost every morning. She’s a wonderful lady and a good friend. I asked her to be gentle with Nora and she laughed and said she would. Actually, she is more like a mother to Nora then an aunt. Back home now, cleaned up the kitchen made some cinnamon raisin toast and hot chocolate for breakfast and have a load in the washer. This is definitely a stay in the house day. I hope you can all find things to do inside as the outside is not all that appealing.

Cool and cloudy and brisk...

Awoke about 5:55am and called my honey to wish her good night. She is doing well Off to McDonald's for coffee then to the Senior center to deliver meals... I had 16 again today... Back home now and needed to turn on the heater... 63˚ in the house is not warm enough for me today. I will do my laundry this afternoon and hopefully get the cartridges for the printer also.

Well it is a very very damp Wednesday today...

I woke up when the phone went off this morning I had the alarm set so that I could call Nora and of course wish her a good night sleep as she was just getting ready to go to bed. It’s wet and cold and dark and all the things that you would typically expect in Oregon on a fall morning. I went down to McDonald’s and had coffee and then realized I'd forgotten my wallet so I came back home and got that then went down to City Hall to turn in my letter of request for jury duty. And after that I stopped at the post office and bought 10 stamps for my mail that goes to the Philippines. It was nice talking to Nora this morning, she really likes to hear the sound of my voice before she goes to bed, the nice thing is I like to hear the sound of hers when I first wake up. Do I sound a little bit like a lovesick cow? Maybe it’s because I am. May God bless each and everyone of you and hope you have a great day today and for those of you who must venture out try to stay warm and above all be safe.

Today is Tuesday the last that deliver until Thursday.

Up about 5 AM this morning it’s Ashley 5:30 AM now and thought I’d catch up on little stuff on the computer before I head down to McDonald’s for coffee. I sent Nora the notice from Filipino visa service that I received last night notifying me that they had forwarded our package to the USCIS. Well ladies and gentlemen the only thing left to do now is wait, absolutely the hardest part of the whole equation but I’m sure we’ll manage. Hope y’all have a lovely day.

Overcast again today with the possibility of rain.

I woke this morning a little bit before 6 AM and called Nora to wish her a happy and a good night sleep. It was wonderful talking to her even though it was just for a few moments. She did get a letter yesterday her father, thought it was for him unfortunately his has not yet arrived. It is my hope that his letter will arrive yet this week in any case I resent the e-mail to Nora that contained a copy of the letter so if he doesn’t get it via snail mail, he will get it from her. After coffee I went down to the senior center to deliver meals, I only had 16 clients today which is fine. After that back home and had some bread and peanut butter for lunch. I got an e-mail from MacSpeech and they told me that the problem that I was having was already documented as resulting from the use of text expander. I disabled text expander to type this message and have had zero errors. Life is good once again. I most likely will not talk to Nora today however, I will call her in the morning once again to wish her a good evening sleep. Isn’t love just the cutest thing though?

It is a dreary and wet Sunday

I awoke this morning to an overcast sky and rainy weather although it was just a very light mist this morning. The forecast is for more rain this afternoon so my day will be relegated to inside the house. Today I believe I will vacuum and probably dust the house something I haven’t done since before I left for Korea. Other than that I don’t have any particular plans. To those of you who may have to venture out I suggest taking an umbrella.

Up with the alarm this morning, it is warm outside and no rain yet...

It is a little overcast this morning however the storm but they projected as my yet appeared. I arrived at McDonald’s for copy this morning at about 6:40 AM. I stayed there till about 8:30 AM and chatted with Marie of coarse. Back home now and having a couple of pieces of toast and some hot chocolate for breakfast and will soon check my e-mail. It would appear to be a good day to stay inside and enjoy the warmth. I hope you all have a good Saturday...

Today is Friday its not bad outside but there's a big storm brewing

I woke this morning about 5 AM and got up got a few things done around here and then decided to go down to McDonald’s for coffee. Ralph was already there and I stuck around until Maria could have breakfast . On the way back home I decided to go to mega Mart and buy some milk and hot chocolate. I stripped the bed and have the sheets washing as we speak and as soon as they are done I will commence with doing the other laundry that needs done. And after that I intend to vacuum and most likely dust the house. I probably will not speak to Nora today, but I will call her tomorrow night which will be her Sunday morning. Hope you’re all enjoying the day, I will be inside with the heat on and folding laundry. See you!

A Little bit rainy but really not a bad day

I had my alarm clock set for 5:30 AM this morning, so when I woke up I decided to call Nora and wish her a good evenings sleep, she was delightfully surprised. I then proceeded down to McDonald’s in time to see Jack. I informed him of my trip to Korea and also my decision to go to the Philippines early next year. He seemed happy that I had a good time. From there it was off to the senior center to deliver meals, I only had 16 clients today, Roxie called in and canceled hers. Before I went to the senior center I took Sean’s birthday card and also Joyce’s birthday card and mailed them at the post office. This is my Friday hope you all enjoyed your Thursday. I have no plans that involve leaving the house.

'tis a very blustery and typical fall day

I slept very well last night, when I awoke this morning it was to a very windy although not very cold fall morning. For me it is a welcome sight because I enjoy the fall weather, the briskness in the air and the freshness that it brings. At about 8 AM I went down to McDonald’s to have coffee and found only a few of the normal group there. There was an electrician there replacing the ballasts in some of the fluorescent fixtures. At about 9:30 AM I decided to come back home. I hope each of you enjoy this beautiful weather, I am certain that the stormy weather will be here before we know it and it won’t be long and we will be wishing there were gone.

I just received a 'text' msg from my ex-wife letting me know that Ralphy, our Golden retriever had died in his sleep... she said that he went peacefully and for that I am eternally grateful... I don't believe a nicer dog has ever lived. He was over 15 years old.

It is cold outside today and overcast...

I woke this morning to the shrill sound of the alarm clock. It was 6:30 AM and as I rose from bed, I noticed it was quite cold in the bedroom. I went down to McDonald’s for coffee with my friends at about 8 AM I drove out to Wal-Mart and made copies of the decrees that were needed by the Filipina visa service. From there I went to the post office and sent them certified mail. That was the only thing left to do before they would forward my package to the USCIS For Processing. Myron Will Be Coming over about 3 PM. He wants me to help him buy tickets for his trip to China. I told him all he needs to bring with him is the dates that he wants to travel and a valid credit card. My day is wonderful and I hope your day is also wonderful make the most of it cause once it’s gone it’s only a memory.

A very chilly Monday

I woke this morning to a very chilly day the temperature was about 28.5° but the weather was fair perhaps a little bit overcast. I stayed at McDonald’s till about 9:00 AM then went to Meals on Wheels to deliver meals for my clients. After deliveries I stopped at the Lebanon school District to find out what I could about getting Joyce and Kenneth enrolled in school when they get here. They will probably require some type of assessment test to find out where they will need to be placed. Back home and had a message from Filipino visa services, they now require complete copies of each divorce judgment. I will need to get those for both Diann and Venita. I called the courthouse but the clerk I need to talk to won't be there until tomorrow. I will be there at 1 PM tomorrow to get the required paperwork.

I checked with the Filipina Visa Service and they told me the rest of the package looked great and upon receipt of the decrees they will forward to the USCISf for processing. Life is lookin good now... Just another Day in Dodge.

Another pretty sunday...

Up about 7am and then to McDonald's for coffee with the guys. Stayed till a little after 9am then off to MegaFoods for some pepper and a 9v battery. Dropped $15 for those two items... my, how prices have shot up since the last time I bought pepper... of course, I like the course ground so it is a little more. Less grinding, more cost??? Anyway, a beautiful day awaits those who would venture out.. I hope my friend in Corvallis doesn’t have to sleep thru it as I know she loves the sunshine. May God bless all.

It is a beautiful Saturday morning

I woke up a little bit later this morning it was about 8:05 AM then I decided to go to McDonald’s for coffee. About 9:15 AM I came back home. There is a dog that lives behind me and for some reason it is just barking and barking and barking. I don’t know if the neighbors are gone or what but I wish something would happen to that dog. I checked my mail and looked around at a few of the sites on the Internet and now I have a load of laundry washing in the washing machine when that is finished and dried I will fold it and put away. I believe that I will mow the grass in the backyard today as it is getting much taller than I like. And besides that I believe that the rain is projected for the future. Hoping that each of you has a wonderful weekend, see you later...

This is Friday and a very beautiful day.

This is quite a beautiful day, the sun is out, and the sky is nice and blue and I just got back from walking around downtown Lebanon. As I was walking I was thinking about my conversation with Nora last night at the Internet café. I said and did some things that probably in retrospect I would not do again. At times when I pray to God I think of how lucky I am that he provided me with such a wonderful woman and it is at times hard for me to realize that we don’t communicate as clearly as we should and that problem is because of the language differences. But all in all I must say we do rather well. Each time that I speak to her I miss her more. Waiting for things has never ever been my strong suit and it continues to be a weak area. But thanks to my belief and the strength of my belief in God I am getting better at it. I do pray that each and every one of you can enjoy this beautiful day that our Lord has provided for us.

Another day in the valley...

I woke up about 4:45 this morning and Text'd Nora that I love her... no answer but I am sure she didn’t have her phone with her anyway... it is late evening there. Went to McDonald's and had coffee as usual, I chatted with Marie as she had breakfast and she told me that she had written an email to Nora... I am glad that they communicate well. Off to deliver meals now, in the fog.

Chilly this morning what a beautiful day all in all.

Well my friends I went down to McDonald’s and had coffee this morning and from there I came home and proceeded to start putting together the package for the visa fiancée service. After making it to Wal-Mart and getting the copying done I came back home and put everything together then took it down to the Federal Express office and sent it off. It’s out of my hands now it will be delivered to the fiancée visa service by 1 PM tomorrow. The copying a Wal-Mart only cost me $3.50 for over 50 copies and it cost me $26 to send the package via Federal Express. But now the only thing left to do is wait and make sure that my package is correct and then the only processing left will be by Nora on her end. All I can say is wow! Other later today I will put together an identical package and store it away for future use should I happen to need it. That was a suggestion by the fiancée visa service. Anyway to each and all of you I wish a happy day and a lovely warm afternoon.

Today is the most beautiful sunny day and the temperatures are not bad

I awoke this morning at about 1:30 AM got up and checked my mail on the computer and was back in bed by 2:30 AM and then didn’t wake up again until 8:30 AM. Perhaps the jet lag thing is finally over. I did not stop at McDonald’s to have coffee this morning but rather went straight to the senior center and had coffee there. I had 17 deliveries today and after I finished my deliveries I stopped at megamart And they had Gala apples on sale for $.58 a pound so I bought a bag of 10 apples and also bought three of the six packs of the many Pepsi cans. Not too much going on today-to talk to Nora tonight about 6 pm and will probably chat for a couple of hours. Hope you all enjoy the day it looks to me like the weather for the next week will be absolutely gorgeous.

Good Lord, is it really this early???

While I can’t believe it’s this early. I went to bed and slept really well last night until about 3:30 AM this morning. I woke up thinking about Nora and wishing that I were with her but realizing of course that I have other things that I must take care of first. Complications delays and matters of the heart they all tend to disrupt my thinking pattern. Oh well it will all come together in good time. Falling in love with this woman has changed my entire life and my outlook on so many things and I must admit most of them are for the better. I will deliver meals today and must also drop off my September mileage list. I will stop at Safeway and check on the Western Union prices for sending money to Daet. I’m not suppose to send any money until November. Anyway I will make the most of today and I hope you all do the same thing. Take care and God bless.

Sunday, cold, dreary... typical valley fall day.

I awoke this morning early about 5 AM and then decided to go back to sleep for a while and woke up again at 7 AM. At that time I got up and went down to McDonald’s to have coffee. I stayed there until about 8:45 AM then came home. I probably will not hear from Norah today until later on this evening when it will be about 9 AM in Daet. She will then be at the Internet café on a rented computer. I am excited about the possible return oversees in January at which time I will potentially stay for two months. It will give me the opportunity to meet her family both close and distant relatives and experience the Filipino culture up close and personal. My very best wishes to those of you who read this blog I hope you have a most wonderful Sunday. I will see you tomorrow.

Saturday... rain looms.

Up early, it is just now 5:30. Down to McDonald's for coffee with the crew... I stayed there till 9am so I could talk to Maria a little bit, told her of my plans to go to Philippines after the 1st of the year and spend a couple of months with Nora and the family. I feel better today, the cough is still around, but later today I may go to Wal★Mart and get some cough drops. Have a wonderful day everyone...

Overcast and rainy would be the forecast for this day.

I slept thru the night, the Nyquil really knocks me out. Didn’t rise until almost 9am then went to McDonald's and got some coffee then down to the dog for biscuits and gravy. I gave Terry a magnet from Korea. Back home now and don’t have much planned except for folding the last of the clothes I washed yesterday. I hope the birth certificates and Jimmie’s death certificate come so I can submit the visa package for Nora and I. Have yourselves a grand old day..

Thursday and the last work day of the week now.

Up at 2:30, messed with the computer for a bit then back to bed and tossed and turned till 4:30 and got up, showered dressed and waited till 6:15 to hit McDonald’s. Everyone happy I was back so that was nice, off to deliver meals, Tori told me that an oldtime delvivery driver returned and will have my route Fridays so I am back to 3 days a week. Back home by 11:20 and finishing up the laundry and waiting for Nora to come online at noon. Have a good day everyone.

Today is Wednesday and no word yet from Nora...

Even though I had my phone with me lash night on the nightstand, no phone call from Nora so I’m sure that she has not yet obtained another phone. Sadly, I believe that what greeted her in Manila was probably devastating to her. I pray to God that none of her family was injured and hurt or missing or God Forbid, killed in the flooding. I went to McDonald’s this morning for coffee and the whole group was basically there and everyone was glad to see me back. I did get to talk with Marie while she ate breakfast and expressed her my concern for Nora’s safety and the fact that I have not yet heard from her. It has been quite sometime since my emotions have run the gamut as they have during this event. Falling in love with Nora was very easy she is such a wonderful person very easy to love leaving her behind was excruciatingly hard, as it should be. My major concern at this time is her safety and well-being. Talk to y’all later, hope you have a grand day.

UPDATE... I got an email from Nora's sister (that I stayed with) and she said that Nora is fine and on her way to Basud, the province that her children and father live in about 170mi from Manila... so she is safe and I am relieved...