Daily musings of a retired digital artist/designer/musician/party goer/etc.

About to have cajun black beans and rice w/ham to celebrate Mardi Gras. I slept much of the morning. It just felt too good being horizontal.

I hung a green, purple, and gold balloon bouquet in the front yard. It’s dangling from the end of a cherry laurel branch, the string long enough to keep it from colliding with anything, so no risk of popping unless we get gale force breezes off the Gulf. (Not likely.)

I plan on making the spicy roasted tater bits in a short while. I was too tired last night to tackle it. But the house is open, and the breeze out of the south is exiting the kitchen door. So it should keep the kitchen temp down with the oven running.

It’s also trash and recycling day. So it will be a little on the busy side today.

In the 40s this morning, cooler than it has been for over a week. It’s also foggy, temp hitting the dew point with vigor out in the countryside, but not here in town where the humidity is only 98%. Dawn is brightening.

Myka is back in the graces again. The office door is open, but she hasn’t been given any treats yet. They’ll come this morning.

The inner tube patches and Mardi Gras balloons are at the local PO, but it’s President’s Day, a federal holiday. Amazon has a contract with USPS to deliver on Sundays and some of the holidays. Amazon tracking says they’ll be here today. USPS doesn’t list anything except departure. Time will tell.

Chores are done this morning, nothing needs doing. I’ll have to consider if I want to tackle a project today.

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The balloons and patches are out for delivery. Federal holidays don’t apply to Amazon freebies. I got notice from Bauer about the keys being shipped, or at least have been given a tracking number. Odds are, USPS won’t deal with them until tomorrow.

It’s in the 60s outside the window. Forecasts say low to mid 70s for a high his afternoon. I look forward to opening the house.

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The house is open. Myka is sitting on the desk at the window, taking in the outside world. She had her wet food, thrilled after missing it yesterday. She is back in her groove again.

I had tamales for brunch, finishing off the package. I have half of the beans and rice left, and over half of the penne. I won’t need to go to quick fix for at least two days. I may thaw the mulligan stew and see how it sits. I also have spuds left that need cooking, probably in spicy roasted bits.

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I had a full bowl of TLC penne alfredo for an early dinner, and it knocked me out, so that I missed the sunset. As soon as I got up to close up the house, Myka took my pre-warmed spot. She is definitely back in rhythm.

This evening is no speedier than the day.

The wind is blowing out of the northwest, a low pressure cell over northern Mississippi driving the breeze. Upper 50s, sun peeking through the overcast, humid.

Not very ambitious this morning. Furnace was off last night, wasn’t too cold, but definitely cool, and that has made me less than ambitious. But Myka got treats and ice water, so she is happy. Fortunately, a few dishes (mostly rinsed forks) is the only chore, and I am waiting for warmer temps later in the day.

Today’s menu is the same as yesterday’s, kolache, tamales, beans and rice, penne alfredo. Easy cuisine for an easy day.

Mr Thrifty is the rule for the next 12 days. I am set up for it.

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I just spent $15 on a pair of keys for the truck camper shell, ordered from the manufacturer. Half of that was for shipping and taxes. The keys are code cut for the product, which is better than trying to copy the only key I have, worn down by 33 years of use. I’ll feel much better with a new key on the ring and a spare. They should be here this week. I could have waited and been Mr Thrifty, but eh.

I could have gotten blanks locally and cut my own, since I got the file set at the first of the month, but again, the key is dreadfully worn, and I’m surprised it still works. It would have been an estimate at best. I got the keys from the source, which should be accurate.

Myka is catus non grata. I was brushing her, and she bit and clawed me. I chased her out of the office and shut the door. No blood flowed, but there is a red spot. She can go without her wet food today. Now she is begging at the door for my attention.

I believe that St. Valentine’s Day was created to help couples resist doing each other in during the peak of winter cabin fever season. Today, in this era of central heat, modern transportation, and flights to Cancun, it’s more intended to sell flowers and candy.

Here, it’s a rainy day, though most of the rain has fallen elsewhere. So far, 0.05″, but more is on the way. We need it. The low was 67°F, due to a dew point of 66°F. It’s hanging around 70°F today. The house is closed due to the humidity.

I’ve been slow on chores. I refilled the ice bin, fed Myka, and that’s it. I still need to wash 5 forks and sift Myka’s cabana. I’m not being negligent, just slow. It’s a lumper. I was busy enough this week.

I discovered that the electric scooter I want was available for $300 for over five weeks in the last three months. I’ve pretty much decided to get one, but now I’m waiting to see if the price to drops again.

I’ve had tamales and beans and rice today. I’ll have penne tonight.

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Rain fell heavily with pea size hail, accumulating over an inch in about 10 minutes. Very little of the rain ran off, most of it soaked in.

I’m glad that I hadn’t started painting the truck.

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I paid storage rent, and found that my online banking is down for system upgrade. It won’t be back online until Tuesday morning. Alas…

Rainfall is up to 1.25″ today, with more to come, though nothing like the big dump we had earlier.

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I sent $140 to Apple. Mad money is at $36. Add $56 for the Piroulines and internet, to $92, if I don’t pay those this month. I won’t be using my debit card much for the next 13 days. I have $500 in other sources, above $1K bank account base. I’m not worried. I can go forward with plans to buy the scooter upgrade.

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It’s cooling down, the front behind the storm train has us in the 50s. It will be in the 40s Monday morning, then warming back up to spring weather again.

I had the penne for dinner. Multing. Video, games, staring off into the darkness, etc. Too close to evening meds to kick Myka out of the LZB. She’ll probably be my foot warmer again the next few nights.

I need to start eating the desserts in the fridge. I’ve been ignoring them in favor of the snack drawer. I stocked up on Reese’s White Easter Eggs, and I didn’t keep pace through the year, now I’m overstocked and having to catch up before this Easter candy season.. Nothing wrong with them, I just lost the rhythm. Now my focus is entrees.

I had a serving of the TLC penne alfredo for dinner yesterday. And then I made a store run later in the evening, as I previously described, adding the lasagna bowl for testing as an alternative to the lasagna. But I haven’t eaten except the usual light breakfast. I should eat, but I’ll probably sleep instead.

Myka has been on a tear this morning. She found a face mask in the deep empty shelf next to the desk, which is reserved for her. Rather than let her shred it, I swapped out a mouse toy for it She went bonkers until she finally ran out of energy. Now she’s about to beat me to sleep.

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We slept, and then Myka took the LZB when I got up. I should eat, and the lasagna bowl is just too big for the freezer in its current state. So that will be my late lunch.

I ordered 30 inner tube patches from Amazon Vine. They’re due Monday Another item for the scooter tire road kit. I hope to never need them, so it’s convenient there’s no cost. There has been a lot of new stuff, but I have been picky about not grabbing the artsy stuff for the sake of grabbing. Other people will scour those. I saw three self-adhesive wallpaper rolls that looked interesting, but I’d never use them. Only the utile now.

It won’t be long (February 24th) before my initial evaluation period with Vine is up, and then I’ll see if they keep me on. I won’t qualify for gold status, I have 24 reviews, I need 80. I’ve ordered $387 worth (full sticker, actual sale price is less). I have a 96% review rate, and all my reviews were rated excellent. I’m not an eager beaver, but I am conscientious in my writing. I suspect they’ll keep me on as silver status. But if they drop me, I won’t cry. I got even with them and then some for the times they contradicted themselves in customer service at my expense.

Amazon asked me if I wanted to keep the Piroulines on order. They’re just too popular to keep up with demand. It’s been a month since I chose them as a free shipping item, but the price is too good to let it go. They haven’t charged me yet. I’ll need to add the price to mad money, which won’t hurt this month, thanks to truck insurance.

Friday the 13th, followed by St Valentine’s day… Which is worse?

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I just contradicted myself on Vine, I just got a Mardi Gras balloon arch kit. 150 latex metallic balloons in purple, green, gold, and gold confetti, in 5″, 10″, 12″, and 18″. (Air pump is not included.) I’m not sure if it will get here by Fat Tuesday, but I won’t cry if it doesn’t. It says Monday delivery.

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I ate the lasagna bowl, dressed with extra mozzarella and parmesan, it does the trick. I’m not crazy about the box size for the round bowl, lots of wasted freezer space, but it has enough flavor, and I can live without the ricotta. Costs less, too.

A pair of owls are fussing it up outside as dusk progresses.

I woke early this morning, earlier than usual. And as usual, the time went nowhere, a slow mix of watching shows and reading news, grabbing a kolache and a couple of minis for breakfast, and generally passing time waiting for the sun to rise so that I could go back to sleep. A well worn routine these days.

Since I updated three of five of my digital devices at my desk yesterday evening, I decided to forego rebooting. I’ve forgotten to reboot on occasion with no ill effect, so I’m willing to let it slide this morning. The exception to that was my phone, to test to see if the wallpaper bug still exists. So far, so good.

I plan on cooking today, both the TLC penne alfredo and cajun black beans and rice w/ham. There is nothing scheduled to interfere with the intent.

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I got in my morning snooze, I’m feeling more energetic, and the house is open. So now it’s time to focus on the kitchen. Feeding Myka is the first chore in line. In the meantime, she’ll be content to look and listen outside.

I scanned Vine this morning, a new crop of items, some almosts, but nothing really asking to come home with me. I’m waiting for the pair of blue ice scoops to show up on the porch in the next couple of hours.

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The cajun black beans and rice with ham is on the stovetop simmering. (taadaa) The penne alfredo, being the more complex an operation, comes second.

The scoops arrived. They are smaller than I anticipated. I would say the are better suited for cocktail mixing than full glass filling. However, they are easier in controlling the ice than the stainless scoop, less spilled.

Mid 70s at noon. Sunny, light scattered clouds. Light breeze from the west. Dew point about 50°F. Nice day for cooking.

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The beans and rice are on the stove resting. Time to boot Myka from the LZB and get reset for the penne.

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I had a short nap, not unusual for me in the early afternoon. It gave me a shot of energy while letting the pot on the stove cool.

The beans and rice are in the fridge, one quart total, a small batch. I didn’t eat any of them yet, as I’m not particularly hungry at this point. Dishes are washed and drying. I’ll start the penne soon. I have three hours before sunset, for what it’s worth.

Myka is snoozing on the desk, parked next to the open window, inches away from my hands. She seems content to be keeping me company while keeping an ear open to the outside world.

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Three quarts of penne in the fridge. Like the beans and rice, I haven’t eaten any yet. Letting the pot and jar soak before washing. Then I’m done for the day. 90 minutes to sunset.

I cooked. Two entrees in the fridge. Three of the older bags in the top loader are used. Proper maintenance rotation. Add the tamales, a good base menu going into the weekend.

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Dishes are done. I’m done for the day. I’ve got options in the fridge. Time to relax.

I might make a store run. I see paper bowls listed in stock. Mozzarella, cheddar, kibbles, wet food. Wouldn’t hurt to stock up on minis too. Later, when it’s less crowded.

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I got the list above, though they were out of the gravy kibbles, so I switched to seafood, the last one she was eating well. I could have waited for a restock or bought a 16 lb bag. But nah, I grabbed what they had. So I’m well stocked and set for the weekend and beyond.

I got a Marie Callander’s lasagna bowl, see if it measures up as an alternative. The boxes are considerably larger, but only 1.25 oz more. They cost a dollar less. I had a bowl of the penne, roughly a pint of it. (One down, five to go.) So I probably won’t try the lasagna tonight. I don’t need double pasta.

So now I’m kicking back and taking it easy. Everything is in proper order.

The day started earlier than normal, and Myka was sleeping in my office chair, something she hasn’t done much this winter. She has since vacated the office. Last that I saw of her was atop the fridge.

Today is pretty simple, cook a couple of entrees, TLC penne alfredo and cajun black beans and rice with ham. The meat will be diced. That’s pretty much it. Bring in the trash bin after pickup.

It’s 65°F this morning. My sleeves are short.

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The sun is heading down, an hour until sunset. I got the TLC and the ham diced, but I haven’t started cooking yet. I’ll get them made when I get some energy. I had the second link of smoked boudin (second pack) for a late lunch, so I’m not in a big hurry to eat. I got the prep done while the sun was up, the important thing. Myka enjoyed TLC nibbles.

I’m updating the laptop, phone, and newer iPad. There are also new app updates to go with it. I’m hoping that it will fix the wallpaper bug on the phone.

I slept fairly well today. It’s been a fairly relaxing day. Only chore at hand is washing cutting boards and knives. Everything but that and cooking and washing pots is done. I’m in slow mode and not worried about it.

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I got the knives washed while there was still sunlight, along with the cutting boards and a couple of forks. So I am at a stopping place. I’m finishing the updates, with the laptop.

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The laptop has been updated, along with the phone and tablet. For what it’s worth, I got no black screen on the phone for wallpaper. Now to see if it repeats it every time there’s a reboot.

Now I’m free to cook when I feel like it. All chores and tasks are done for the time being, until I get busy inn the kitchen. Neither entree is labor intensive at this point. Dump, set fire, and wash pots.

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I decided to snooze instead of cook. Just as well. I can cook tomorrow.

I haven’t slept much in the last 30 hours, and I don’t have a decent reason for it. Yawning, drooping eyes, slumping, all the prelude to somnolent bliss, but no shut eye to speak of.

I have 2 TLC leg quarters in the fridge to skin and debone this morning, before trash goes to the curb. Dicing and making penne alfredo is whenever I get to it. The rest of the day is up for grabs.

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I finally got some sleep. Not enough to catch up, but enough to flush most of the toxins. Still a few in the bloodstream, a slight headache, it should be enough for ibuprofen to handle.

It’s 67°F in the window at 9:30 am. It will warm up enough to open the house soon. Overcast, calm, dew point in the low 60s.

I will start on the TLC prep as soon as the ibuprofen kicks in. I’ll get the rest of the trash together in the meantime.

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I have the trash gathered, except the TLC prep. The house is open. I still need to feed Myka, prep bird, wash a few dishes, and take the trash to the curb. Not a big list.

I got word that my primary has departed the clinic permanently. The return date was just a case of a limited option of the messaging app. There is no word of where she has gone or what she’s doing instead. I would speculate that she got a better offer. So I guess that ‘ll find yet another primary and set an introductory visit.

Reaching mid 70s. Airport forecast says no 80s today, but I won’t count them out here.

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Myka has been fed, the TLC has been skinned and deboned, and the dishes washed. I even vacuumed the underside of the stovetop and relit the pilots. Trash is ready to carry out as soon as it’s tied off. I’ll dice the TLC and ham as soon as the urge hits. Right now it’s not that demanding.

I have been thinking about the scooter upgrade. It could be in March, as little as three weeks away. I’m still a little wary about spending almost $400 again. Granted, it’s about the same price as the first one I got, prices are definitely lower than they were a year ago. But it’s still a chunk of the budget. At least it uses all the same accessories, so no cost there. And time is a main part of the debate. It’s spring, best time of year for riding. But it’s back to back months with the insurance dent. *sigh* Then again, freedom from any mad money demands. And perhaps most of all, do I truly want one? I enjoy riding, but the one I have has less than 20 miles on it in 15 month’s time. And that includes the 9 mile battery test when I first got it. I have the truck for errands. As mobility assistance when the truck is down, it helps, but as it is now suffices. Do I enjoy the ride enough to make hill climb a factor? Would I ride it more at my age if the speed up hill was faster? Lots of details bouncing around the noggin.

Thinking about a late lunch. I snacked for brunch, so I’m not very hungry, but I could go for something like tacos. I could also make ramen, easy either way. I could also go for another link of smoked boudin. One package wasn’t enough after the absence. And there are chicken tamales. I should get the trash out. I’ve rested enough.

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I had a smoked boudin link for dinner. I had a package of ramen earlier. So I’m set for the evening. I’ll get to the prep tomorrow. Chores are minimal, a good day for cooking.

The lasagna I tried last night was definitely not a viable alternative. Bleech. I’ll have to try others. I have a bit of an appetite this morning, and I think I’ll have either smoked boudin or tamales for brunch. I’ve had the traditional kolache and minis so far.

It’s a mild morning, upper 60s, sunny skies, a bit hazy, mild winds from the southwest. Forecast shows another afternoon in the 80s. I might get out for a ride on the scooter.

Not much happening this morning.

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Well, my primary physician has taken what appears to be a year long leave of absence, reason unstated. I am being prompted by the clinic to select a new primary. *sigh* The good news is that I won’t need new scripts for another 90 days.

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I scoured the microwave this afternoon. It stemmed from the mediocre lasagna spilling over into the bacon rack. I washed it after a soak, and the turntable needed it as well, as did the floor of the chamber. It wasn’t awful, as I use a splatter guard whenever applicable, but it was due a once over. So it’s clean now.

It’s in the 80s, some stations in town registering in the upper 80s. It peaked at 84°F here. It cut back my appetite, I managed to skip lunch with a couple of snacks. I’ve had spots where I tired and got horizontal, but I didn’t fall asleep.

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I went and got a fresh bag of ice. Traffic was pretty thick as it closes in on rush hour. The new bag went into the slot in the freezer flawlessly. It’s full, but properly stacked.

I need to thaw. No idea what, I just need to thaw. Ham, TLC, and ground chuck are among the oldest items in the freezer. TLC for penne alfredo, ham for cajun black beans and rice. Sounds good. I can live with cross carbs. Both are deep, so the proper arrangement will be at risk.

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I pulled two quarters of TLC and a bag of ham. The ham has two bags left, it might be an Easter item, they’ll be on sale. The TLC will be prepped tomorrow for the trash. The ham can wait a day or two. I hope I got the ice slot correct. The sausage bag seems a little loose, I may need to adjust it if it doesn’t settle properly.

Last hour of daylight, chores are done. I will probably have a pizza for dinner.

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I had pizza for dinner. I have not slept much today. I’m not sure exactly why. I get tired and lie down and stay awake. Unusual. Maybe I’ll get to sleep tonight after dinner and meds.

I won’t be able to stream the Super Bowl (60) here at home, since I’m not going to sign up for a free trial just to watch it. It’s not available online without a subscription. And I still don’t own a TV, and I’m not sure I’d be able to pick it up from here anyway. My heart is not broken. I haven’t seen a single game this season.

Let them eat guacamole! I can’t help but remember seeing a guy buying three bags of avocados (at least a dozen to a bag). It had to be for a big batch of guacamole. At 50¢ each, it had to be at least $20 for the batch.

As far as I’m concerned, it’s just anther Sunday. The house will be open this afternoon.

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It reached the 70s, and the house is open. Sleeves are off, and I’m relaxing after a lunch of chicken fajitas. It’s a pretty lazy day.

Ytube is fairly shy of uploads today, and I’m avoiding those with voluntary exposure to snow, except for one, and it wasn’t camping.

It’s a good day for a sleeveless nap.

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I decided to make a store run when the Super Bowl starts at 5:30 pm. The store should be nearly empty, and the sun will still be up, temp in the 70s. A perfect time to shop.

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The store was a lot more crowded when I arrived than when I left. I should have waited 15 minutes. But I got everything on the list, minis, bread, tortillas, gouda, parmesan, hotdogs, boudin, chips, and a generic lasagna single (for comparison). I’ll have the lasagna tonight.

It’s 72°F as dusk settles, civil twilight ending. It’s time to close up the house and save the ambient. It got up to 79°F this afternoon. It was enjoyable.

Saturday morning, waiting for time to come around. Minimal chores today. In no hurry to do anything, including breakfast. Last night’s spudacado was massive.

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I just fed Myka, after sifting her cabana. I opened the house, with it reaching 72°F outside. Myka is in the office window, happy to be there with senses trained on the world at large. I might get out on the scooter, then again, I might not. It’s Saturday, and there is traffic.

I don’t have a focus on lunch yet. Not only did the spudacado overwhelm breakfast, it’s doing a number on lunch as well. I’ll fix something when I get hungry.

There aren’t any further chores for the day, other than the ice bin, later, when it drops further. I found a pair of ice scoops on Amazon Vine and ordered them. I’ll compare them to the stainless scoop I’m using now.

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Today will be a lazy one.

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It’s past late lunch time, venturing into early dinner. I still haven’t eaten anything other than a few Reese’s Pieces, the bottom of the dispenser, so I could refill it clean from a fresh bag. I didn’t my usual kolache for breakfast. My thoughts are a rib eye taco, since it’s the only thing open in the fridge. Plenty in the freezer from which to choose, just that none of it is attracting my labor non-intensive imagination. I am thinking of thawing chicken, maybe on Monday, just before the trash goes out. Maybe penne alfredo.

I was correct, today is a lazy one. Temps in the low 80s. Lots of lumpin’.

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I have snacked, chips, minis, and snickerdoodles. Not exactly a filling diet, more a token to give the stomach something to keep it company so it doesn’t get grumpy. I will make tacos shortly. I haven’t been hungry today, with last night’s spudacado still being digested.

I have been lumpin’ at the desk. I have found several pastimes today to fill the time.

I made a ¾” space in the menu bar of the browser as a handle for the window, rather than taking the time to set the cursor in a skinny gap between icons. What a happy difference for such a tiny design mod.

I made the run to the pharmacy and got all seven scripts. I also got a pack of large paper plates and an avocado. They were out of the bowls I wanted as reserves, no big hurry. I also topped off the truck with gas. So the truck is parked for the weekend. So is my wallet. (Getting a bag of ice is the possible exception.)

It was a slow morning, nothing out of the ordinary, plenty of sleep. I didn’t fold laundry last night or wipe the chili tubs with bread. I’ll just wash them now, there wasn’t all that much left to wipe. I was pretty thorough.

It’s almost time to open the house, just a few degrees to go. I plan on dicing the rib eye for steak spudacado this evening, folding laundry, washing a few forks, chili tubs, and cutting board, arranging a couple of things, feed Myka, and finishing off the smoked boudin for lunch. Not too busy a day ahead.

I’m feeling pretty good today. No serious physical complaints. Mad money is down to staples level, no need to shop for anything special or extraneous. I’m ready for a lazy afternoon where laziness isn’t a necessity.

It crossed into the 70s in the window. I expect upper 60s on the porch. Time to get up, open the house, get busy, and get it all behind me.

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Myka was fed, I had the second smoked boudin (Myka nibbled), rib eye was diced, dishes were washed, the sink, counters, and stovetop were scrubbed. I still need to fold laundry, but I can do that at night. The house is closed, except the office window, and I’m holding off a few extra minutes. It got up to 82°F this afternoon. It’s in the low 70s now.

Everything is ready for the steak spudacado. It’s just a matter of making it when I get hungry enough. I’m thinking about pizza for lunch tomorrow. Still no solid idea about the next entree.

I’ve been resting longer between tasks than I had in mind. But I got everything but folding laundry done before sunset. I got in my rest time, just not in as big a lump as I’d hoped. Tomorrow’s chores will be considerably less demanding, unless I get inspired to make an entree that is labor intensive.

A sleepy morning, slow to get the gears going. The morning was in the low 40s, but now in the 60s and warming as we approach noon. Tomorrow starts the streak of days in the 80s.

If I drive anywhere today, it will be for brisket chili, a 1 mile round trip. Otherwise the truck stays put. I have three weeks to be thrifty on mad money.

I’m still waiting for the scripts at the pharmacy. So no heading south today.

I’ve started thinking again about the more powerful electric scooter. I’m not 100% on the mad money drain, but I’m leaning that way. The current scooter is sufficient but dreadfully slow uphill, barely faster than walking. That’s the point of decision. A bicycle is dreadfully slow going uphill in low gear, but that’s a bicycle. It’s not the velocity or time involved, it’s the feeling of slowing to a crawl. And what do I do with the one I have. March or April is the target for a purchase, if I decide to get one.

Not much else happening. Woke with a headache that ibuprofen tamed. Myka has been singing along a bit this morning.

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I got two quarts brisket chili and a quart of mulligan stew this afternoon. The stew is frozen and in the top loader, the chili is hot and cooling in the sink, next to a thawing rib eye half. The rib eye will be used with the spuds and gouda.

I was remembered at the Pioneer, instant recognition, even with the beard. We had a good conversation. There is a jam session every Thursday night now. I may go check it out.

Laundry is in the washer and running.

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I snoozed after the laundry started and forgot it until after dark. Fortunately it wasn’t that much after dark.

I also need to package the chili in pint containers for freezing, since it’s been in the fridge long enough to cool down. The freezers are loaded, and I’ll need to do some rearranging to accommodate them. I know where they go, so not a disaster, but no room for anything else, period. Then again, nothing else is needed.

It’s a little cool tonight for attending the jam. Next week looks better. I haven’t committed to playing. I’ll go watch and see the talent level. I’m not expecting pro, but it helps knowing the music level first.

The scripts are all available now, though the pharmacy has closed for the night. I’ll go tomorrow morning, and I’ll get gas for the truck while I’m there. Then it’s time to shut down for the weekend.

Forecast for tomorrow says 80s. All next week as well. Lots of breeze through the house. Zero complaints.

I started the day late, sleeping much of the morning. I went to the local PO to mail a letter, but they couldn’t find the address on their computer. Turns out, they insisted on it being a package, 8X more expensive. UPS was twice as much. Oh well, I shelved that idea.

I made a run this afternoon, but two of the seven scripts at the pharmacy were not ready, so I scratched that. And as for topping off the truck, the gas station had lines at every pump. I’ll do that when the scripts are ready.

I bought the metal file set. Then I hit the grocery for things on my list, a total of about $90 for the day. I got bread, minis, smoked boudin, kolaches, hash brown sticks (coupon freebie), and a coconut cream pie. I verified that there were no lasagna singles that I like, but they have them in Bryan. So my next visit, I will stock up, if they haven’t restocked here.

I have everything I need for now. I probably won’t make another run this week, except for the scripts when they’re ready.

I didn’t get around to doing the laundry, but I’ll take care of that tomorrow. No hurry.

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The brisket chili is gone. I finished it with a gold potato and cheddar. I plan on getting more this week. I can make use of some of the cash in my wallet.

It’s been a slow night, either face to screen or face up and horizontal.

Today is a day for chores. Trash and recycling. Shuffle crates. And the usual, like laundry, ice bin, dishes, Myka, etc. I’m waiting till tomorrow for a store run. Kolaches need restocking, and the sale starts tomorrow that has a freebie coupon attached.

So I have slept fully. Myka has been filling a vacuum on the LZB. I get up and she is settled in it before I get settled. Brat.

It’s been a 60°F night. Nothing quite like the tropical backside of a freeze. The house will be open again this afternoon.

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The house is open. It reached 80°F this afternoon. Blessed warmth. The trash is out on the curb, recycling in the bin. The auto crates are on the porch, rearranged. The ice bin is full. Three forks were washed. Myka has been fed. And now that the dirty work is done, it’s time to wash me and my clothes.

Myka has not yet discovered the absence of the crates and mover blanket from the front room. It has been one of her favorite spots to sleep lately.

It’s been a relatively busy afternoon. Plenty of breaks as needed, but the tasks were accomplished. (Except cleaning me up, and that’s coming.) Tomorrow will be the store run, and maybe top off on gas.

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Done for the day, except a couple of chili cheese dogs. Laundry has been postponed until tomorrow, though the load is in the washer. No rush, and I don’t like running the dryer after dark. Just a quirk of mine. I am out of the grunge and in fresh duds. That’s a good stopping point for the day. There’s less than half an hour until sunset.

It’s down to 70°F, time to close up the house, claim the ambient for tonight’s temp drop to the mid-40s. Tonight is the wind down.

Today’s forecast says high in the 70s, but the window thermometer says 42°F, airport 32°F. I understand that many are having it much worse, like the snow storm on the east coast. But I’m tired of feeling like I need another layer of clothing. This is Texas, where heat calls home. Spring had better hurry up.

The chili is thawed, in the fridge, waiting for some action. A chili cheese spud will kick off the menu for lunch.

I am planning on rearranging the auto crates and take them back out on the porch today. Myka will miss them with the mover’s blanket as a bed.

There isn’t much else on the todo list. Open the house and lump is the big event of the day.

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After I fed Myka her wet food (which she hasn’t eaten yet), I started the chili cycle with a pair of chili cheese dogs. The spud will be for dinner.

And when I finished, I opened up the house. 71°F, partly cloudy, moderate southerly breeze. Aaaaaahhhh.

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I have to say it’s been a most enjoyable lumpation, being entirely lazy, with nary an urge to be productive or creative. There will be plenty of pleasant days to come for that. I could have made a store run, but I wasn’t in the mood. There’s nothing that I need today.

It has slipped down into the upper 60s, and I’m about to close the house. This is the mild week, next week is the warm one, mid-70s to low-80s for highs.

As I expected, the truck registration sticker arrived in the mail today. I have two months to apply it. I’m waiting now for insurance cards. I was sent a paper one with the policy info, but I’m waiting for the heavier paper stock version with proper printing.

I’m not too eager to get into anything tonight, though I can think of plenty to do.

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I did one of the tasks at hand, I sharpened and stropped the paring knife. It’s back to specs. And I had chili cheese spud (2 potatoes). I am full.

Kicking off February in a relaxing manner.

Window says 31°, back porch 28°, airport 22°. Coolest water in the pipes showed 47°F. It’s the last freeze in the forecast. Wind is calm and turning from the south. There’s lots of 70s in the afternoons ahead. It was a good skeeter killer, can’t complain.

I expect the chicken salad and stadium brats to be exhausted today. That means a brisket chili thaw, with cheese, spuds, and dogs. Then maybe I’ll cook something.

Slow Sunday start on Ytube, but they’re starting to come around. The remainder are all snow related, so I’m not exactly eager to watch.

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The ice kiosk is out of order. Tomorrow will be soon enough.

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I followed my intuition, sniffed the wind, and went back for ice. The manager was there, just having fixed the problem. There’s a fresh bag of ice in the freezer.

There’s also a tub of chili in the sink to thaw.

Spring starts tomorrow.

All the monthly expected bills (except storage, mid-month) have been paid. Insurance, Apple, internet. Plus I ordered 3 qt of Pennzoil SAE 30 (free delivery). I was thinking six, a change plus an extra quart, but I decided to purchase the oil for a change when it happens to reduce storage space needs. Three will cover everything that might happen.

That means that I go into February tomorrow free of financial concerns, everything behind me. Gasoline and food will be my primary focus. And I’m well stocked with food. And I don’t have any road plans next month.

A slow morning getting started. Mid 30s in the window, barely freezing in the countryside. Alpaca sweater on. Tomorrow morning is the cold one, hopefully the last cold one.

I got the hot water thermostat set as it should be, 120°F. Hot enough to melt grease, not hot enough to scald quickly. Quick rinsing of hands is practical, a good hand warmer on cold days.

Laundry, sift, wash a few things. Probably get a bag of ice. Not atypical for a Saturday between freezes. Chicken salad and stadium brats. Can’t complain.

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The oil arrived before noon. Myka is occupying the blanket that is sitting atop the crates, so putting two of them away will wait. One goes in the truck.

I had a chicken salad sandwich for lunch. It’s time to start in on the chores. It won’t take long.

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I finished the chores for the day, didn’t take long. I have decided to wear the long johns one more night. So laundry will be tomorrow, at the earliest. There isn’t much else happening.

I have found a metal file kit for under $30 that would add to my tools, one of the few areas where I’m understocked. That might be the only extraneous purchase this coming month. While limited by insurance, the budget will still probably be needing a purchase or two in that range.

I don’t see needing that much food for February. I am well stocked and need to whittle down a few of the freezer items that are getting old. I don’t want to see anything burn. The cupboards are loaded.

The backside of the winter storm is approaching, mostly 60s and 70s for highs, 40s and 50s for lows. Maybe I can start getting things done on the truck.

The water is back on, thanks to me and my deductive reasoning, backed by physics and plumbing standards. The person (who remains unnamed) who turned the water back on didn’t actually turn it back on. There are three positions, on, off, lock. It was moved from lock to off. I opened the valve/meter cover and turned it back on. Fortunately, I don’t detect any leaks. Knock on polyvinyl chloride.

The tub is emptying, the last of the containers to be drained. No small effort to send all 12 containers’ stored water down the drain. The water heater is fired up and heating water. I’m back in business, though I need to wash the pots and dry the collapsable jugs before the effort is 100% behind me.

And there is two loads of laundry to do, the collection I was wearing before the freeze and the set I’ve been wearing since. I wish that I had known yesterday, when I could have taken a comfortable bath in the 70s. I’ll wash up with warm water from the tap when the water heater gets there. I’ll need to measure the water temp to make sure I have the water heater thermostat set correctly.

It’s 44°F in the office window, 42°F on the back porch. I could make that store run to finish out the shopping list, but I don’t need to at this moment. I haven’t decided on the next entrees after the chili fest (maybe cajun black beans and rice, maybe chicken rotini soup). And odds are, I have the ingredients for it, whatever it is. I still have half a 6″ cheesecake in the fridge. And I have cookies, candy, minis, and more for desserts. I will not starve if I wait until next week for the run. I’m in good shape.

So… Sunday morning is the next hard freeze, forecast low 20s, add 4-6°F to that for here. After that, we should be in the clear. (Should…)

Life is now back to normal. Shame on my patience, for not checking sooner. I knew there was something wrong, it didn’t make sense, I didn’t investigate. Oh well, I was surviving by pot and ladle, not hurting for it, just a little inconvenienced. But now I’m back to full utility. Wash up and dry the containers, put this behind me, where it best belongs.

It’s the weekend. Kick back, take it easy, enjoy the chicken salad sandwiches.

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I served Myka her wet food, and the point where I rinse the fork under the faucet and drop it in the sink to clatter has been missing for a week. Myka heard it today and got very excited. I’m not the only one who has missed running water.

It has been some time since I set the water heater. I first set it on low and got 78°F. That’s not the 120°F that I wanted. That jogged my memory a bit, I think I have it where it needs to be now. Give it a few more minutes, and then laundry begins.

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The water is on the warm side by 15°. That’s hot enough to deep scald within 15 seconds exposure. It’s good enough for laundry and diluted, but not straight. So I’m dialing it down.

The first load of laundry is in the dryer. I’m still wearing the second load. And it’s a bit late to start a second load. I’m not in a hurry anyway. But I still plan on getting into fresh duds today.

I had a chicken salad sandwich for lunch. I haven’t been very hungry, and the sandwich and a couple of minis were clearly sufficient for the day. There isn’t that much need, despite the efforts of the last two days.

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I just paid the truck insurance. Though it was way in advance, by a full two months, that headache is now out of the way. And the registration sticker is on its way. The truck is well tended, case closed.

I have a few chores to handle, like rinse pots, test water temp, fold laundry when it finishes drying. I’m in slow mode from the past week. I’m not highly inspired to do things. Besides, it’s the weekend. Get past Sunday morning’s freeze and I’m in the clear. And auto-drippers are installed for that. Easy task.

The water is still not flowing faster than a drip every six seconds (6-9) from the drain faucet. 58°F in the window and rising. I’m getting tired of eventually. It’s been 48 hours since pressure was restored, and no visible progress to be had. I look forward to washing my hands often, as needed. It’s been six days now.

Payday is tonight, 12 -16 hours from now. It means that I can spend money online, but as far as restocking the fridge, that waits for running water. No sense in stocking up when it’s this difficult to wash dishes wholesale. I could get a loaf of bread and sandwich stuff, but I have boudin and brats with over half a loaf, and lots of freezer quick fix. Snacks are filling a larger portion of my diet than usual. I haven’t OD’ed yet, but I’m about ready to cook.

The weather is quite pleasant. Sunny, blue skies, southerly breeze, 60% humidity. No complaints there. I’m tempted to go scooter riding, but I doubt that I will. I’d take the truck if I get restless. For now, I’m willing to hang at the house.

I need to feed Myka. She didn’t eat much of the Meow Mix yesterday.

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I got the two coolers emptied into the tub, which is now full again, and got them back in their proper places. I also put up the hammer and staple gun and three flashlights back in the truck. And the flashlight for the back porch is on the side of the top loader. Except for the two auto crates and catch pan that sit on the front porch, everything that goes outside is there. I also nailed down the protruding nails on the front porch to make things easier to slide. That will make things easier to revert when the water runs again. This is what happens when it hits 70°F.

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Sunset is at 6 pm today for the first time since October 10th. (Daylight savings was 7pm). 3.5 months with a 5:xx pm sunset.

6 hours to payday (±2). Uneventful one, truck insurance month.

Fridge looks dreadfully empty. Makes me want to go shopping. I’m thawing a pack of stadium brats. As good a time to burn one as any. I’ll find a way to hold out until tomorrow.

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I made a store run this evening. Bread, tamales, chicken salad, hotdogs, and the last package of smoked boudin on the shelf. I hope they have more in the back. So now the fridge doesn’t look so desolate, and the items won’t need a lot of dishwashing.

I’ve decided to thaw the last pint of brisket chili (after the chicken salad is gone). Chili cheese spuds and chili cheese dogs will be the main entrees. I can get a couple more quarts for the freezer this month, after the water is running.

I am set for the weekend. Payday was at 10 pm. Mad money is more limited this month, truck insurance eating a bite of the budget. But I’m not needing anything to speak of. Paper plates, motor oil, food is well in stock.

The drain faucet has been dripping water at the rate of one drip every eight seconds. That hasn’t changed since the water was turned back on. The temperature didn’t get below 32°F here, though some readings in the area were as low as 25°F.

So I sit and wait for the pipes to thaw. How long is purely a guessing game. Fortunately, I have ample supplies of water.

I made a store run yesterday afternoon, getting cheddar and snacks, totaling $35, plus $100 cash back, ending the mad money focus for the month. I’ll probably make a store run today to get minis and potatoes. I can’t think of anything else that I need.

Not much else is happening.

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There is a crew in the back yard, hacking away at the cherry laurel limb that broke. The saws are electric, battery run by the sound of it.

I’m about to head to the store for a few items. It’s in the low 50s, warm enough to venture out into the world without a heater core.

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I got minis and gold potatoes (big ones in the bag for a change) on the store run. I could have padded the fridge, but I’m waiting for the water to start running again. I can sit still for the rest of the week, no hurry (36 hours to payday). There is plenty of quick fix in the freezer.

Now it’s sitting around and waiting, unless I want to go grab a burger or something.

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No real change in the drip rate of the drain faucet. Another night without running water. It leveled out around 60°F this afternoon. It will thaw eventually.

I tried the jalapeño boudin, and as I thought, a little too green. It doesn’t come close to matching the smoked boudin. It was on the warm side, which didn’t bother me, but it too peño. I guess there will be a case shipped when I find the freezer space for it. No, wait! Hold the presses! The store has it back in stock (according to the website). YAHOO!!!! ET TOI!!! BONNE JOURNÉE!!!!

Not a whole lot to do. I’ve done it. Just wait for payday to come around, don’t make a mess that needs running water. I’m ready for it. I have diced rib eye to go with a cheese spud. I thought about an avocado at the store, but decided against it (too messy). Maybe after payday and running water, when I do a stock up for the fridge.

The thermometer in the office window reads 35°F. The back porch shows 31°F. The coldest I saw last night was 26°F, though the airport reported 17°F. Thank goodness for sheltered locations.

Three hours or so before water pressure returns. If pipes are frozen, it might not make a difference, and a busted pipe might not be immediately apparent. I won’t have long to find out if I can dump all this water that I’m holding at any time soon.

I think I’ll have lasagna for lunch. I’ve been eating from the fridge and snack bin, easy fare, easy clean. I haven’t had any of the fancier fares from the freezer. And I haven’t even begun to think about what comes next Classic shortsightedness. Not that I’m worried about it. Options I possess in plenty.

I expect to see the remnants of sleet and freezing rain vanish from 90% of the landscape today. Go away, ugly stuff.

Myka is on her aerie in the front room, greeting the morning sun.

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I started the truck, let it idle to warm, then took it around the block. Everything was hunky dory. I’ll have no problem making a store run when time comes. For now, I’m still waiting for the water to be turned back on. That takes priority.

11:30, 48°F in the window, 46°F on the back porch. Wind is light out of the south. It’s blue skies, sunny. The sleet and ice are vanishing steadily. Icicles drip and get smaller, the little ones on the trees drop like rain.

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Well, the water is back on, but nothing is flowing. The pipes froze. Don’t know if they burst yet. It’s a waiting game now.

The ERCOT forecast of electrical supply vs demand is approaching its closest point in the arctic storm. Committed supply has increased slightly, making the margin 7 GW for the grid, an improvement from the previous 5 GW forecast. They are trying their best.

The thermometer in the window is showing 28°F. The back porch is showing 26°F. Airport shows 22°F. So we are showing at least 4°F variance, which is consistent. If it holds, we’ll stay out of the teens.

The boredom is the big issue, as it usually is during hard cold. That and the internal temperature fluctuation, going from 65°F to 78°F, and it is dry. That doesn’t help in trying to keep fluid intake down while wearing long johns. Sitting at the desk next to the window, with the barrier between heat and cold sitting atop the rear of the desk. I have held off using the external hard drives for the thermal gradient, a variable best avoided. As for me, the heating pad in my lap helps accommodate.

And it’s Monday morning. The usual void only amplifies the presence of the sleet still hanging around outside.. I’m left to my own devices to deal with the nags and glooms the season brings, especially at my age…

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10:30 am, and we are climbing out of the freeze. The frozen rain blanketing the roof is melting, dripping frigid water from the icicles on the eaves. The neighboring stations are showing primarily 24/25°F. Were it not for the profusion of dripping water, I might question the readings here. Window says 32°F. Deep shade of the back porch shows 30°F. It won’t be long before the trees and lower reaches begin thawing. I am happy that it is receding.

The cherry laurel at the back porch broke a major limb, blocking the stairs. Glad to see it give way, as it was intrusive enough as it was before it broke. There was a squirrel sitting in the disarray, trying its best to endure the ice, in no hurry to flee my presence. I’ll be glad to see it cleaned up and gone.

One more night before it’s done, despite the reprieve, though there will be a number of freezes in the nights ahead. They won’t be of this scale, but it won’t be balmy either. Well, we got our skeeter killer. I can live with that.

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I am being held captive by freezing drip. Not that I’m going anywhere.

Thermometer in the office window says 39°F, back porch says 38°F.

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I used a broom to break up the ice (with the handle tip as a spike) and sweep it off. I am capable of escape. However, the truck needs to open the hood, and I didn’t bother trying. I got the wipers cleaned of ice and let it go at that. I don’t need anything in the next 24 hours.

I will need to spend $128 of mad money on Wednesday or Thursday. $100 cash back would solve a chunk of that. I’ll think of something. I need cheddar and Reese’s Pieces, I can think of a few things else with a little whim.

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11:30 pm, last plunge of the storm. 31°F at the window, 29°F on the porch. Elsewhere, 24°F. With that edge, we hopefully won’t see teens tonight. Hopefully.

A loose night. A mix of screen distractions.

There is sloshy ice on the front porch steps, where the water is dripping off the roof. The temperature dipped into the upper 20s, now back into the low 30s. Most of the rain has moved to the east, so it won’t be that long before it dries up. I don’t see anything that indicates power problems. Most of the freezing is on brick and concrete, not in the trees or on power lines.

Other than that, a Sunday morning, waiting for Ytube to upload.

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The rain ended, moving east, and the cold air followed, now in the upper 20s here at the house, lower 20s elsewhere in town. It didn’t leave without dusting the landscape with a layer of sleet. Not melting on the street, dangerous driving. Nasty stuff.

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Not going anywhere until it thaws. Frozen rain on the windshield, sleet on the hood. A heater core would have helped.

The temperature has been holding pretty steady at 29°F. Everywhere around here (up on poles) is at 23°F. From the forecast, 4°F to drop by morning. Not much to do but nap and hope for the best.

Nighttime has fallen. The freeze begins in about two hours by the forecast. However, the temperature here at the house is about 4°F warmer than the readings online, 38°F compared to 34°F. The forecast doesn’t show 20s until after midnight. In a 60 hour period below freezing, a few hours are moot.

Today I finished the prep that started well before dark yesterday. I finished covering the skirt, on the south side. I had to wait until it quit raining. It rained an inch this morning, the bulk of it before dawn, but it left things wet and messy.

After I finished the tasks of making ready, I washed up with a shallow pot of water warmed on the stove and then I got into fresh clothes, complete with thermals, a walking cocoon. Alpaca is ready at hand for added layering.

I’ve been 26 hours without running water now. I have ample water supplies for the event.

So, I am prepared for the plunge. May it not break any pipes and postpone the water inconvenience further.

ERCOT forecast looks optimistic, the closest margin between supply and demand is 5 GW (8 am Monday, lack of solar and depleted batteries, coldest temp), most of the time 15 – 40 GW. It doesn’t look like rolling blackouts this time. The digitals all stay plugged in for full charge. I have the Jackery for powering the modem. I have a dozen flashlights, two of them work lights with serious lumen output.

The pressure washer nozzles arrived today. I checked that they fit the wand’s nozzle socket. I couldn’t test them with the water off, but they looked proper when compared to the ones that came with the unit.

I finished off the tater bits for a late lunch today. I’ll probably have a rib eye taco for dinner. The menu is vast, all designed to keep dish washing to an absolute minimum. One fork or one paring knife, if anything.

I’m ready. Nothing left but the boredom.