Dilute with rum. (Follow me for more dieting tips!)
Aw, shit. Fingers crossed for an eventual good outcome, or at least your money back.
Last night I went to bed later than I should have, then tried to fall asleep to a baseball game*…which doesn’t work when the team that’s behind by 3 runs suddenly loads the bases in the 6th with only one out. (They got out of the inning with just one more run: for a moment I wasn’t sure if I was watching the Dodgers or the Nationals [eh, the Nats wouldn’t have scored at all]). Anyway, when the iPad’s timer shut everything off in the middle of the next inning I was physically tired, but my brain wasn’t tired enough to fall asleep. So, I read for a while. I wound up falling asleep a lot later than usual, but I think I slept alright once I finally conked out. I’m only a little bit tired today (so far).
*Max (formerly HBO Max) is showing some postseason games: they’re providing the Bleacher Report (B/R) Sports add-on for free for a limited time. So far I’ve seen no indication of when the “limited time” will end, but whenever it’s over the add-on will cost $10/mo. I fully expect it to end before the World Series starts; maybe even right before the league championships begin. It won’t be worth it for me, since (a) I don’t care about any of the teams in the postseason and (b) WS games are usually aired on Fox, but if the add-on is still available next season I might look into it – though the blackouts involved with the two teams I’d want to watch the most will probably continue to be dealbreakers.
This evening I have another personal training session. I already really don’t feel like going, which probably means I really should. I know I’ll feel better about it when I’m in the car; I’m always glad once I’m there. 
In other news, my next LEGO set was delivered today!
It’s been five months since I last played with bricks. A friend got this set for her birthday, and when she sent me a text with a picture I really liked it…which is weird for me, because I’m not really a flowers kinda gal. But I like the browns and greens, and decided to get it for myself. My kitchen table is currently covered with volunteer-related stuff for Saturday morning’s event, so I’ll start on it either Sunday evening or sometime next week. Once assembled it will be my centerpiece until the weekend after Thanksgiving, when the table will start being used for my Swarovski snowflakes display tree and other Christmas decorations. (But I won’t take the centerpiece apart; I’ll find a place to put it until after the holidays.)
Ugh!! One of my pet peeves is the unnecessary use of jargon, and then I went and did it myself. 
Sorry about that.
As shoe deduced, a “tagup” is a short status meeting. I have weekly tagups scheduled with one of my employees, but yesterday was quiet enough that I just sent her a quick “need anything?” ping via chat instead.
HERETIC
Indeed! 
I never nap in the bedroom; that’s (partly) what my couch is for. I only lie down on the bed during the day if I’m not feeling well. But, I also don’t share my couch with any other bipeds.
I would definitely keep my place chillier in the fall/winter (especially at night) if it weren’t for the doggy: I don’t want to risk exacerbating her arthritis. These days, the lowest I’ll set my thermostat to is 70°F…but it isn’t the most accurate thing, so the actual house temp is probably somewhere around 68-70.
Just got this email [emphasis mine]:
We are writing to inform you that your recent purchase through the Global Shipping Program from [seller’s username] cannot be completed.
The item in question has been deemed restricted. This could be due to import/shipping restrictions or eligibility requirements within the Global Shipping Program. The item will not be shipped to you nor returned to your seller.
Don’t worry! Your full refund will be processed back to the original payment method within 72 hours. You may notice two separate refunds; a refund for the item and a refund for the shipping and import costs. No further action is needed.
So, what…? The seller keeps my money because he’s made a sale, and eBay is forking over my refund out of their own pocket?
Ah, seems I’ve missed QUITE a few weeks’ worth of MMPs. Oopsies.
Things have been looking up for me. I’ve been opening up more to my mom, and she’s been very kind and supportive. I don’t know why she wouldn’t be supportive. She did ask a lot of questions, but that was just because she wanted to know more, not to interrogate me or anything.
College has been going swell. I feel so free nowadays. I don’t have to raise my hand and ask to go to the bathroom anymore; I can just…go. It’s a small thing, but it feels so nice. Also, not being in a bigoted conservative Christian school is nice. I can be myself for once. Crazy.
Also…as of today, I’ve officially been on the Dope for 3 years!! I’m glad I’ve stuck around for this long, even if I’m not always active. Y’all are some fun people.
Pumpkin spice. OMG.
The dogs got their Barkbox today. I get the large box because of 3(was 4) indoor dogs. It’s subjective who gets what toys. The treats are enjoyed by all.
But I got 2 containers of pumpkin spice food add-on.
It smelled horrible just opening the box. I opened one container and nearly died as dogs were begging for it. I swear it is full of doggie-crack.
I said, ok. We’ll try it on breakfast food. Yuck ain’t the word.
I took it out in the garage. The garage cats were not interested at all. More like, they may leave home if I don’t destroy it, at once.
Went back inside. The dogs now reek of a rotten pumpkin aroma. Yep. Teefs will be brushed. Dog perfume will be applied.
I just don’t get it.
(Feel better @nelliebly )
I’m medium-small as men go. It’s been 20 years since I had a couch anywhere near long enough for me to lie down in/on. Even then I never got the attraction. Couches are IMO monster uncomfortable places to sleep. Beds are designed for that. YMMV of course, and I’m glad you’ve got your happy nappy place.
I’d sooner bet the seller is screwed. You get your money back, the seller gets a chargeback so they net zero USD or GBP, and the tank is in limbo / disposed of. So they’re out the value of the thing.
Yaay! And welcome back. You were missed. Without you this place degenerates into a bunch of degenerate old farts bitching about aches, bragging about laziness, and telling cute grandkid stories. [At least that’s what I contribute 
]. We need some young adult presence here too to keep us relevant.
I bet you ain’t smelled nuthin’ yet, Honey. Wait till the pumpkin spice comes out the other end after some canine intestinal “processing”. Gonna be rank. 
It’s not like dogs bother to taste their food. What the hell is the point of spice for dog food?
I bought a tank from an eBay seller in Texas, that I skipped before because the UK one was in better condition. Might be able to find someone who can remove the dent. There’s like a 100 mm hole in the bottom of the tank for the fuel pump and the dent might be pounded out from the inside. *fingers crossed*
Howdy Y’all! We laundered and sorted through the closet. Go Us! I took some stuff to the Goodwill drop off place nearby. Also, I went over to the church house to take care of candle duty just to get it outta the way. I am sure the Altar and flower guilds will descend en masse to do their end of things on Thursday and Firday. After the ordination, stuff will then need to get setup for Sunday, but that won’t be too bad. Nappage and day drinkin’ were also accomplished. We early supped on the leftovers. Now we chill.
A member of the Parish went to seminary. The “home church” sponsors in the form of around five-hunnert bucks per semester. He will be ordained on Sattidy. He cannot become our Priest because one can never be the Priest in one’s “home” Parish. I think he is bein’ assigned as a Priest-in-charge to a church within the Diocese, however. Anywho, it will be a large and in charge service with clergy everywhere. An infestation of clergy! How fun! There will also be a no doubt wondrous reception afterwards with loads of goodies. YAY!
Nellie yay for seein’ better! Hope that continues to be the case. Also, hope the knee is better today.
GodBod glad kolledge is goin’ well so far. Happy Doperversary! Enjoy the slice of cake by your name.
FlyBoy bummer about the tank. Here’s hopin’ the one you found in Texas works out.
You mean my pug, who is actually a small, black vacuum cleaner, can’t tell the difference between Gravy train “sirloin burger” and “chicken chunks”? 
Tuna steak was yum, as was the broccoli I steamed. Clean sheets are on the bed. Higgs has inhaled her evening meal. I’m about to plant my butt in my recliner for a couple of hours before popping a melatonin and getting some sleep.
FCD should be arriving at his aunt’s house any time now.This 10.5 hour trip is in its 12th hour - I’m sure largely due to MIL taking a long time for rest stops. She moves a lot slower in recent days - in fact, she’s slowed a lot in the last year. Makes me wonder if she’ll last much longer… Anyway, I expect a call from him any time now.
Unwanted side effect of my weight loss - my wedding ring is really loose - I fear it may fall off. Why are my fingers getting skinnier? Why not my derriere??? Dammit.
Awww, I’m flattered.
Moooooom, Avon is still around. Mostly, reps sell at their places of employment, flea markets and online. I buy my favorite deodorant from an Avon rep who sells on da Jungle. Mary Kay, according to the interwebs, is still around. Years ago, I was a Mary Kay lady.
baker, for your next reunion, you may want to contact the organizers and work through them to sponsor your friend’s fee without her knowing who it is.
I read yesterday and even wrote a post, which was promptly swallowed. I was too tired to try again.
Stay safe and healthy y’all!
Colorado marijuana dispensaries have always had the weed in various naturally occurring flavors, such as blueberry, bubblegum and so on. These days they have pumpkin spice flavored buds!
Welp, today I went to fill out the job necessary paperwork and realized that my Driver’s License has expired. I was going to apply for a MN Enhanced DL that would allow me to take my vehicle into Canada without a full passport. Perfect for visiting my Winnipeg friends. But. It turns out that not only do I need a current DL for the job paperwork, but I also need it to apply for the Enhanced DL. My bad. Tomorrow morning bright and early, I’ll be in line to renew my license. Then, at least, I can finish with the new job paperwork.
Also, my body has been showing signs of returning hyperthyroidism but I can’t get to the doctor until next month. That’s not so bad because I should have insurance by then but convincing my current doc that I once had symptomatic Graves disease that has gone underground for several years might be back will be an issue. She didn’t believe me when I first told her because my records had apparently been purged because I hadn’t seen an Endocrinologist in over 5 years. Well, now it’s been ten, but I’m showing several signs. Fingers crossed she listens. As a result of today’s symptoms, I think I’ll just be having some savory oatmeal or some such mild deliciousness for dinner.
FCM, you can stop at the jewelers and get something help keep your ring in place. We did this for my grandmother. It fits just inside the actual ring for a better fit.
Happy Anniversary GodBod and congratulations on the open conversations with Mom and the continued schooling. Keep up the good work!
Misnamed, how can you sleep with the game on? It’s bad enough when I get a hotel roomie who wants to fall asleep to a movie; I can’t sleep then. No way could I go to sleep with an excited sports announcer in the background.
Flyboy, sorry to hear about the fuel tank. Did they say why it was undeliverable? Were they afraid it would be holding fuel? They ship race cars and bikes on the weekly, why deny a simple part? Hmmph.
Cookie, you are patience itself. I would have called this surgeon on the table. One wouldn’t expect a missionary to be racist but I find that often, they are just that. Glad you got the laundry done in spite of the motivation to walk away.
Boo, Pilot, Uff da is very much a Minnesota and North Dakota thing. You might hear it in So Dak or Iowa. Interesting how the meaning has changed for us from how the home-based Norwegians use it. “Uff da! That’s a lot of logs you split this morning. You must be expecting a cold winter!”
Well, the next thing you know people are taking sides and there’s overt hostilities. No thanks. I’ll just chalk it up to ignorance and assume he’s a Trump supporter.
My sweetie arrived just after I posted my last. Right about the time I realized that I forgot to send the 'nanner bread with them. Dammit.
Anyway, he’s there safely and I don’t know how much longer I can stay awake…
Flyboy: good luck with the Texas tank. A skilled sheet metal worker can produce miracles. I can produce more and bigger dimples.
Swampy: thanks for the backstory on the ordination. My late first wife was Epsicopal and although I’m a raging heathen I got to attend one of those events for a parishioner we knew. A joyous launch for the newbie into their new world. Good on all y’all fr your support and best of luck to them in their new adventure.
Not sure whether you’re laughing at my ignorance about Higgs’s highly discerning tastes, or the hubris of Gravy Train suggesting their “flavors” matter. Or even actually differ. Same stuff; different package? Either way I’m glad I triggered a laugh; that’s really the main purpose of life.
Hooray for FCD / MIL arrival. Slowing down is a shame but well-earned. Given that experience it’ll be interesting to see if they decide to take 2 days getting back. Not like either of them has pressing business back in your area.
I had my first wedding ring resized up and down a few times. Not too difficult. For sure do something immediately to prevent losing the darn thing. I used a narrow strip of cloth first aid “adhesive” tape wrapped around the underside of my ring for several months to tighten it up until I was sure what size I was settling into.
The journey of 20 lbs starts with a single half-ounce. You’ll get there.
Zoomie: good luck w license(s) renewal(s). Ouch about Graves; I hope the doc will listen to reason.
As to me:
It being Tuesday we went for our usual craft tacos & margaritas. Nice walk in the gathering twilight going and evening coming. Good as always. Now balconatin’ in the fully dark.
Just got two letters dated 1 day apart from SSA telling me about my impending SS benefit payments net of Part B and IRMAA. The numbers differ wildly between the two letters. Sigh. We shall see. I can sort of understand what likely happened, but Jeeze Louise folks. You’d really confuse / worry / scare witless somebody who didn’t have a good handle on all this or who needed every penny to afford eat, heat, and a roof.
According to my half ass magic internetz research, many grocery stores sell exactly that, various flavours (I stuck that u in there for you, boo fae) of Coke Zero in 7.5 oz cans multipacks-Target, Walmart and of course Amazon. I’ve seen it aplenty at my regional grocery store chain-look up on the high shelf where your store stocks Coke products, maybe they hide the mini cans there on the less prime level like my store does. I’m a die hard Coke Zero (well, diet brown bubbly stuff preferably of the Coca Cola ilk-of which CZ is favored over Diet Coke) fan and 7.5 oz would barely wet my whistle, I’d have to drink two cans.
Now of course I have to temper that consumption because the newly diagnosed hiatal hernia means I’m supposed to limit both carbonation and caffeine-jeez, that’s exactly why I drink it. So I’ve cutback 
and opt for caffeine free CZ and DC more often, while whining a lot about it.
And we’re glad you stuck around too! And I agree with you, there are some mighty fun folks here (plus nobody cool knows you’re hanging out with us geezers so you retain your street cred).
Yah, feel better, nellie. Glad to hear about the 
good fortune, hope it holds. Wish the knee was treating you better and certainly more explicably. Hang in there.
So you wish your pants were also falling off with out warning and you wish you were suddenly losing them in public? Hunh, doesn’t sound like you.
Evening all. 600 calories pedaled away and soccer coached, have just finished the 2sday Mac-n-Cheese and am now settling in for some readin’ and internettin’ for the evening. We’re supposed to practice from 5:30-6:30pm, but these days we’re stopping about 6:15 because it is starting to get dark and you don’t want a bunch of 7 year olds and parents and cars backing in and out in the dark. Might get one more practice in next week and then just let them play the games.
FCM, glad Dad and MIL made it safely, 12 hours is a long time to be on the road for anybody, and for a 60-something and his 90?-something Mom, it must be exhausting. Hope they get well-rested before heading back. Did you get the phone mailed?
Never recall using ‘uff dah’ in my life, interesting the things I continue to learn here.
I drink a combination of Pepsi Zero (evenings) and Diet Pepsi (First Meal) and like them both about equally, I find they are better when on ice so the freezer gets a bit of a workout 2-3 times a day.
Cookie, amazing how the most mundane of contacts can startle you; I vividly remember being at my brother’s church 20 some years ago for something for his kids. At the time I was working in Abu Dhabi for the US Army and was home for the holidays. One of the parishioners was talking to me, and when I mentioned where I was located he casually mentioned that things would probably be better for all if Mecca was nuked… 
I don’t recall what I said to him, something innocuous, but that still stays with me all these years later. (sorry for dredging it up, but your comments made me recall it).
Shoe, great pic of Monkey doing what cats do best.
Oopsie, that looks like one complex LEGO; have fun.
As for the thermostat discussion, during the warm months I have the AC set at 77F and during the cold times the heater is set at either 68F or 70F; right now it is not set at anything as the weather is keeping the house pretty much inside those numbers.
God Bod!! Good to see ya around the premises again. Glad college and Mother-relationship are going well for you. Don’t be a stranger.
Becks, when the barn cats won’t touch it, it’s probably garbage-time…
Flyboy, hope the second try for a tank comes off better for you.
Swampy, hope the ordination (and reception) goes as planned.
vroom, hope your license issues are less complex than shoe’s. Made me take a look at my license (I’m good until July 2025). And hope Doc listens; should be something they know they should do, but so many don’t…
BBBoo, yeah, my stores around here all carry the 7.5oz cans. I still get the 12oz ones, but nice to know there is an option. And I don’t care for Diet Pepsi-No caffeine, but hopefully you’ll adjust to it.
No, sounds like me; especially on my jeans, if I forget my belt and the jeans make it to my hips, I’d better have a firm grip on them or they’re heading South. May finally have to break out the 42" ones I have in reserve.
Alrighty then, time to finish the evening internettin’ and head off to reading-time. Take care all.
I try to avoid Pepsi products if I can get my hands on a coke version of brown bubbly diet stuff-I just prefer Coke’s recipe. I do drink Pepsi if that’s all that is available. I don’t notice the lack of caffeine causing a difference in taste in either brand but caffeine free anything is hard to find out and about in restaurants and drive-throughs so if it’s past about 3 or 4 pm I switch to water or diet sprite or seven up-at least I get the bubbles!
Howdy all. I made it home just as it got dark. I fell back to sleep and got a late start. I stopped at a roadside fruit stand and made me a boyfriend. He was really flirting. I bought peanuts for boiling and some apples called Crimson Crisp and a jar of Apple Butter with no added sugar. Thank Goodness another customer stopped so I could get away from that fellow. It’s a long way way from Athens to Palm Bay. The last two hours on 95 I said to myself “screw it, I shall drive 85mph and if I get a ticket then I will just pay it. Luckily I did not get a ticket and arrived safely just at dark.
I have lost 20 lbs so far so yay for that. I am now watching the original black and white version of Cape Fear. I listened to news on serius xm about the mess in Gaza and cried most of the way home. I love to quote Rodney King, “Why can’t we just all get along”. If I was able I would go there to help but will make a monetary donation instead. I really feel for that part of the world and have fear for this part of the world.
Buddyboy was overjoyed to have me home and is napping now in his recliner right next to me. Tomorrow morning I shall go next door and visit Stella, the new pup. She will be 5 weeks by now. It’s getting real.
I got my Krystal fix in south Ga but they didn’t give me any ketchup so I was too mad to go back and ask for a third time. I scarfed down two and a few fries and realized they aren’t as good as I remember so those are likely the last I will ever have. I have not read yet but will so in the mean time Rosie’s sig. still haven’t checked the lotto ticket. I don’t even know when the drawing is but I won’t forget y’all.
Thanks for the safe driving vibes. I went on the Jax bypass right at 5 pm and there is no way I could ever deal with that traffic everyday. Note to self: Don’t travel on a holiday weekend. I shall return.