Survivors Guilt is weighing heavily on me.
Where we live did not flood the home.
It did not flood the little city.
We never lost electricity.
We never lost internet.
We never ran out of food.
The grocery store within walking distance opened on Tuesday.
We were able to fill our truck with gas.
We never got stuck in this rental.
NOT ONLY THAT, but...
The 1st home we had when married, was flooded in.
Area of 1st home is STILL flooded and waters are rising from the reservoir.
The 2nd home was flooded in.
The 3rd home was flood in.
The RV park was flooded.
NOT ONLY THAT, but...
Because my grandmother died and left me a little money, we were able to get this rental. (I got bashed a little for that, but now I am thankful). Just 5 months ago, we moved out of house #3 leaving behind LOTS of friends that DID get flooded.
Its like we left behind the wake of mass descruction.
We were abel to get our boys out yesterday and they both stayed here last night.
I feel guilty because workers showed up at our house yesterday and worked. We are meeting the builder today to discuss time lines and work issues.
It just seems so out of place when so many people don't have homes at all. Rental properties are flying off the market, there are not enough places.
Food and gas and other supplies are not coming in Houston fast enough. Shipments supposed to go to Dallas are going elsewhere closer to the Harvey fallout (not necessarily Houston), so Dallas is having gas shortages.
A plant in Crosby will be exploding on the east side of Houston - close to areas that were already hit so hard. Luckily, it is rural and the explosion is only supposed to affect 2 square miles, but the winds are blowing, so the chemical fallout will be worse.
My son has to get to college this weekend, but we cannot get supplies for him. I am also worried about them running out of gas. I hope that by this weekend things get a little better in that realm.
My guilt is from being able to bounce back to normal and so many others bouncing back as well, juxtaposed next to those that without a home, lost all their possessions, and are just starting a very long, grueling process.
Schools don't when they will start. We are starting next week when Dad goes back to work. Aransas ISD is closed indefinitely.
Also, last night, Darrell's step-father passed. It has been touch and go for a couple of months now. We are just hoping the airports open back up by the time the funeral comes.
Life will go on and I will work through this guilt. Every day that the sun shines right now is a brighter new day.
one husband......four kids......debt......sewing...... saving......cooking......yoga......sweet......chaos......life......
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Tuesday check in - its not raining
Well, it seems as though Harvey has finally left our area. He definitely over-stayed his welcome.
We fared better than most, but our rural area in general did well. We know what areas will flood and what roads are blocked. There were no surprises.
Dams and levies are the problem now. 2 levies broke - causing a major amount of flooding in areas that actually were spared Harvey's wrath. 2 levies are releasing into the bayou at the highest extinct, but the water influx from higher rivers is too high and the water is backing up into their flood areas that were developed. Now, these levies have not EVER reached these levels, so their was no precedence to know that this level of flooding would ever happen. This storm brought in the most water ever in the continental US. EVER!
One dam is being released and putting pressure on little rivers and creeks, but again, there was no choice. If they held the water, the dam could break. That would cause more damage than anyone could imagine. They are doing the best they can though!
Both my sons are in neighborhoods that are flooded. One has no water or electricity. The other does. The rain has finally stopped, so DS2 and I think he will be able to get out of the neighborhood tomorrow and come to us. DS1, I have no idea yet. He is older and wants to be on his own, so ....I wait.
Our area was the least impacted - we got a lot of rain, but because our area is rural, there are many, many more places for it to go rather than in homes. Suburban and urban areas have so much concrete and developers that do not care about the natural drainage of water.
Even our water will eventually be that way in the neighborhood we are building in - it is inevitable. But, we hope people stay away as long as possible!
So, we are hanging in there.
Today, we decided what we are going to do to help the efforts going on.
We are background people. What we contribute usually is not in the forefront of people's mind, but usually appreciated in a way that is unexpected. For example, for funerals, we give toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, plastic silverware, etc. It is always met with the same response, "OK, um, thank you." Then, the thank you notes are full of thanks, we had no idea we need this, etc. These are things noone thinks to bring, but everyone brings food. Noone wants to wash dishes and the influx of people usually causes the restroom to be over used.
We decided with this to do exactly that same thing. We would buy personal care items from CVS deals and basic food items - rice, pasta, can goods - to continue to give for at least one year. We set a line item in the budget and started today. We went to CVS and bought toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shaving cream, shavers, shampoo, paper towels, toilet paper, mouthwash, etc. We will build up as deals come up. Everytime we grocery shop, we will buy a little more.
A local food bank that we have given to for years that is located in a hard hit area is who we will donate to, but I just recently learned that families in my homeschool group have completely lost their homes, so we prefer to give to them first.
Quiet, no flash. It isn't fancy, it isn't something people write home about, but we will be giving long after the TV cameras are gone, long after people have gotten back to their lives.
So there you have it. Hope you all had a great day. I saw the sun - my day was unimaginably great!
We fared better than most, but our rural area in general did well. We know what areas will flood and what roads are blocked. There were no surprises.
Dams and levies are the problem now. 2 levies broke - causing a major amount of flooding in areas that actually were spared Harvey's wrath. 2 levies are releasing into the bayou at the highest extinct, but the water influx from higher rivers is too high and the water is backing up into their flood areas that were developed. Now, these levies have not EVER reached these levels, so their was no precedence to know that this level of flooding would ever happen. This storm brought in the most water ever in the continental US. EVER!
One dam is being released and putting pressure on little rivers and creeks, but again, there was no choice. If they held the water, the dam could break. That would cause more damage than anyone could imagine. They are doing the best they can though!
Both my sons are in neighborhoods that are flooded. One has no water or electricity. The other does. The rain has finally stopped, so DS2 and I think he will be able to get out of the neighborhood tomorrow and come to us. DS1, I have no idea yet. He is older and wants to be on his own, so ....I wait.
Our area was the least impacted - we got a lot of rain, but because our area is rural, there are many, many more places for it to go rather than in homes. Suburban and urban areas have so much concrete and developers that do not care about the natural drainage of water.
Even our water will eventually be that way in the neighborhood we are building in - it is inevitable. But, we hope people stay away as long as possible!
So, we are hanging in there.
Today, we decided what we are going to do to help the efforts going on.
We are background people. What we contribute usually is not in the forefront of people's mind, but usually appreciated in a way that is unexpected. For example, for funerals, we give toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, plastic silverware, etc. It is always met with the same response, "OK, um, thank you." Then, the thank you notes are full of thanks, we had no idea we need this, etc. These are things noone thinks to bring, but everyone brings food. Noone wants to wash dishes and the influx of people usually causes the restroom to be over used.
We decided with this to do exactly that same thing. We would buy personal care items from CVS deals and basic food items - rice, pasta, can goods - to continue to give for at least one year. We set a line item in the budget and started today. We went to CVS and bought toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shaving cream, shavers, shampoo, paper towels, toilet paper, mouthwash, etc. We will build up as deals come up. Everytime we grocery shop, we will buy a little more.
A local food bank that we have given to for years that is located in a hard hit area is who we will donate to, but I just recently learned that families in my homeschool group have completely lost their homes, so we prefer to give to them first.
Quiet, no flash. It isn't fancy, it isn't something people write home about, but we will be giving long after the TV cameras are gone, long after people have gotten back to their lives.
So there you have it. Hope you all had a great day. I saw the sun - my day was unimaginably great!
Monday, August 28, 2017
Monday, Monday - that rainy day
Yes, it is still rainy. Not hard, but the wind is harder! The eye of the Harvey is coming closer to Houston and although that sounds bad, but honestly, I if it comes and moves East, we will get a break. That is a clean side. I am done with the dirty side even though we are high and dry with electricity. I want it for my dear friends that are sitting without electricity, without water and cannot leave because the roads are flooded.
I want it because the county is about to release levies (which they have to do or cause more harm than you can imagine), and this will flood homes that managed to not get flooded so far. Over 30 neighborhoods have to evacuate before they release. These are people we know and neighborhoods we lived in before.
I want it because buying food is tough. People cannot leave their neighborhoods and even those that can make it out go to store to find it empty.
There was just no way to predict how bad this would be.
Now, CNN is saying the government failed us by NOT requiring an evacuation. I live here, my friends live here - this has NEVER happened before. NEVER! Now, the last time the government issued a mandatory evacuation (Hurricane Rita) - 10 million people tried to get out of Houston and you know what - they ran out of gas in stopped traffic in 100F days with no food, water or bathrooms. It was mass hysteria.
Also, neighborhoods that flooded before are not flooding now. There is no way to predict where it is prudent to evacuate. So, if the government HAD issued evacuations before the storm came in historically flood prone areas, they would have missed those that got it the worst with this storm. CNN needs to shut their fucking mouth! I am done with them!
Not one person I know, have heard about or anything is complaining about staying. People are helping people, more rescues have happened than they can report because not all rescues are reported! People who are without power and water are sharing their rations. This is how everyone should be all the time.
OK, my rant is over.
Good news for me with all this awfulness. We decided to try to get to our land this morning and were able to drive there with no problem. So far, our home is water free and did not even feel humid. It has held.
We were thrilled! I am actually exhausted now and hubs thinks it is because I was so worried about it. The neighborhood did not flood either. Good, good news.
We also went grocery shopping and got some basics so we could go much longer if we needed to. The store was rationing - no more than 2 of items like toilet paper, bread, milk, beer, crackers, etc. (Yes, beer was rationed!)
So, we are fine - we will be fine. I am aching like crazy for my friends, but they cannot get to me and I cannot get to them.
We are not through this yet, but the end is coming soon - very soon!
I want it because the county is about to release levies (which they have to do or cause more harm than you can imagine), and this will flood homes that managed to not get flooded so far. Over 30 neighborhoods have to evacuate before they release. These are people we know and neighborhoods we lived in before.
I want it because buying food is tough. People cannot leave their neighborhoods and even those that can make it out go to store to find it empty.
There was just no way to predict how bad this would be.
Now, CNN is saying the government failed us by NOT requiring an evacuation. I live here, my friends live here - this has NEVER happened before. NEVER! Now, the last time the government issued a mandatory evacuation (Hurricane Rita) - 10 million people tried to get out of Houston and you know what - they ran out of gas in stopped traffic in 100F days with no food, water or bathrooms. It was mass hysteria.
Also, neighborhoods that flooded before are not flooding now. There is no way to predict where it is prudent to evacuate. So, if the government HAD issued evacuations before the storm came in historically flood prone areas, they would have missed those that got it the worst with this storm. CNN needs to shut their fucking mouth! I am done with them!
Not one person I know, have heard about or anything is complaining about staying. People are helping people, more rescues have happened than they can report because not all rescues are reported! People who are without power and water are sharing their rations. This is how everyone should be all the time.
OK, my rant is over.
Good news for me with all this awfulness. We decided to try to get to our land this morning and were able to drive there with no problem. So far, our home is water free and did not even feel humid. It has held.
We were thrilled! I am actually exhausted now and hubs thinks it is because I was so worried about it. The neighborhood did not flood either. Good, good news.
We also went grocery shopping and got some basics so we could go much longer if we needed to. The store was rationing - no more than 2 of items like toilet paper, bread, milk, beer, crackers, etc. (Yes, beer was rationed!)
So, we are fine - we will be fine. I am aching like crazy for my friends, but they cannot get to me and I cannot get to them.
We are not through this yet, but the end is coming soon - very soon!
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Checking in
We are still hanging in there. Lots of rain last night, lots of tornado warnings, but we are good. We still have electricity and are just hanging out.
Where we are, the little lake is over its bank, but holding good and no streets are flooded.
Houston however is under water and many of my friends are stuck in there homes - no way out - water lapping at their doorsteps. More rain is coming.
I am not sure how our land/house is doing - the road there is flooded, so we could not get there even if we tried. Our realtor lives in the neighborhood though and she is keeping me informed of the general neighborhood happenings. The neighborhood is not flooded, but I am concerned because our house is not water proof yet. We have temporary doors and the brick is not fully installed. I am anxious to see what the damage is. This is how people people who evacuate feel - only more so. It is awful!
However, we are hearing that the RV Park where we were is flooded, so good move on our part.
But, with this all, the dark skies and pitter patter of rain has allowed me to sleep so good.
It is difficult to think of anything else though - this is all encompassing!
Where we are, the little lake is over its bank, but holding good and no streets are flooded.
Houston however is under water and many of my friends are stuck in there homes - no way out - water lapping at their doorsteps. More rain is coming.
I am not sure how our land/house is doing - the road there is flooded, so we could not get there even if we tried. Our realtor lives in the neighborhood though and she is keeping me informed of the general neighborhood happenings. The neighborhood is not flooded, but I am concerned because our house is not water proof yet. We have temporary doors and the brick is not fully installed. I am anxious to see what the damage is. This is how people people who evacuate feel - only more so. It is awful!
However, we are hearing that the RV Park where we were is flooded, so good move on our part.
But, with this all, the dark skies and pitter patter of rain has allowed me to sleep so good.
It is difficult to think of anything else though - this is all encompassing!
Saturday, August 26, 2017
Still Hanging with Harvey
We are fine. We are pretty far north of Houston, so we have gotten some rain and light winds, but nothing bad. We kept electricity all night last night.
There is a lot of areas that normally flood in Houston, they are currently flooding. What is going to get us is that it will be rain and rain and rain so more. Our area is supposed to get 18", inside Houston 25". We are not called the Bayou City for nothing. It will be bad in Houston. San Antonio is going to be getting it awfully bad! My beautiful Hill Country area is getting pounded.
We were at this beach last year down in the area that the eye of hurricane came in on. This beach got the worse of the winds down close to Mustang Island.
I am concerned about these trees - some of the oldest trees - like birth of Christ old. But they have seen more than this storm, so I hope they fare well.
Some other news.
In light of the rain we would be getting, we decided to move our RV to our land - our land is higher than the RV park and if we waited, we would have had to move it on Wednesday through LOTS of rain and mud. So, yesterday in very light rain, we moved the RV.
Also, our farmhouse copper sink came in! It was good timing - the Fed-ex truck was pulling out of the neighborhood when we pulled in.
It is gorgeous! This picture does it no justice! I chose bronze drains since I am doing a bronze faucet and handles in the kitchen. It is a subtle copper - antiqued. I chose not to have it hammered - I don't like that look. It is smooth. And just stunning - I literally had an intake of air when I saw it! LOL
So, today and tomorrow and probably Monday and Tuesday, we are just hanging out. As long as we have electricity we will be good to go.
I hope you all are having a fabulous weekend!
There is a lot of areas that normally flood in Houston, they are currently flooding. What is going to get us is that it will be rain and rain and rain so more. Our area is supposed to get 18", inside Houston 25". We are not called the Bayou City for nothing. It will be bad in Houston. San Antonio is going to be getting it awfully bad! My beautiful Hill Country area is getting pounded.
We were at this beach last year down in the area that the eye of hurricane came in on. This beach got the worse of the winds down close to Mustang Island.
I am concerned about these trees - some of the oldest trees - like birth of Christ old. But they have seen more than this storm, so I hope they fare well.
 |
| It was bigger than I could take a picture of. |
Some other news.
In light of the rain we would be getting, we decided to move our RV to our land - our land is higher than the RV park and if we waited, we would have had to move it on Wednesday through LOTS of rain and mud. So, yesterday in very light rain, we moved the RV.
Also, our farmhouse copper sink came in! It was good timing - the Fed-ex truck was pulling out of the neighborhood when we pulled in.
It is gorgeous! This picture does it no justice! I chose bronze drains since I am doing a bronze faucet and handles in the kitchen. It is a subtle copper - antiqued. I chose not to have it hammered - I don't like that look. It is smooth. And just stunning - I literally had an intake of air when I saw it! LOL
So, today and tomorrow and probably Monday and Tuesday, we are just hanging out. As long as we have electricity we will be good to go.
I hope you all are having a fabulous weekend!
Thursday, August 24, 2017
Hanging with Harvey
Well, since the eye is not hitting Houston and we are pretty north of Houston, we decided to stay and hang with Harvey.
We had a good amount of water already, bought a little more, stocked up on non-refrigerated food and snacks. We are good on batteries, so we are going to sit here.
Out little rental is pretty high in the area, so the water would have to get almost 40' to flood us. That will never happen. All of Houston would be underwater. We will probably be flooded in and lose electricity for a while.
All of this made me realize how we set ourselves up with the new house. It is hurricane rated for support, we will have a house generator that runs on propane - which we will have a large tank of, we will also have a well - with a house filter and will be able to filter further during these times, so no worries about water.
I always thought I would just leave for a hurricane, but after living through one, and having friends and family sit on the highway during another, we feel we are far enough from the coast to miss the majority of the storm and are set up to ride out the aftermath. We take all hurricanes on a case by case basis.
So, if anyone was wondering - we are fine. Stocked and ready to go - feeling optimistic, but ready to get it over with.
I will check in unless we lose electricity. If you know anyone in Corpus Christy (or has evacuated), know I am thinking about them - hoping they are all safe!
We had a good amount of water already, bought a little more, stocked up on non-refrigerated food and snacks. We are good on batteries, so we are going to sit here.
Out little rental is pretty high in the area, so the water would have to get almost 40' to flood us. That will never happen. All of Houston would be underwater. We will probably be flooded in and lose electricity for a while.
All of this made me realize how we set ourselves up with the new house. It is hurricane rated for support, we will have a house generator that runs on propane - which we will have a large tank of, we will also have a well - with a house filter and will be able to filter further during these times, so no worries about water.
I always thought I would just leave for a hurricane, but after living through one, and having friends and family sit on the highway during another, we feel we are far enough from the coast to miss the majority of the storm and are set up to ride out the aftermath. We take all hurricanes on a case by case basis.
So, if anyone was wondering - we are fine. Stocked and ready to go - feeling optimistic, but ready to get it over with.
I will check in unless we lose electricity. If you know anyone in Corpus Christy (or has evacuated), know I am thinking about them - hoping they are all safe!
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
First day home in over a month
I am staying home today no matter what! I guess I should preface - unless the builder asks me to come.
There literally has not been one day in the past month where I was just at home. That does something to the body - too much busyness.
There is a lot going on today, but again, I have access to a restroom when I need it, water, food and a chair to relax in even if its for a few minutes. Hopefully, this is a sign of what's to come.
As for my list on Monday - I actually did get through most of it - we did not shop until yesterday, ate dinner out because of a house emergency that kept us out until 10 pm and I have not called the payment in for the aquarium field trip because I did not get a confirmation until yesterday late. That is actually pretty good for that list. I was out all day yesterday at doctor's appointments, voice lessons, a committee meeting, checking on the house, etc. We did get the grocery shopping done though as well as paid our son's college tuition, bought the copper farmhouse sink, and the fire escape ladder.
Although I should have more to write other than to-do lists, that is how busy I am. I am not even reading right now. The lists should get smaller soon.
On the docket today:
1. Meet with 2 customers for 3 quilt orders.
2. Oversee the pick up and subsequent drop off of the golf cart for repair.
3. Unpack and organize all homeschool materials/books
4. Catch up on laundry and hang all clothes (still packed)
5. Call payment into aquarium
6. Find a part on my Juki that is missing and order it.
7. Start crock pot dinner - chicken and dressing with green beans and carrots
8. Call my sister and say Happy Birthday
9. Have kids clean up their rooms
10. Quick wipe of bathrooms
11. Look at backsplash options for kitchen - some research is needed.
12. Sit down for a spell
There are other things that could be done, but these are the big ones today.
So, today is all about me just being at home. Plain and simple.
There literally has not been one day in the past month where I was just at home. That does something to the body - too much busyness.
There is a lot going on today, but again, I have access to a restroom when I need it, water, food and a chair to relax in even if its for a few minutes. Hopefully, this is a sign of what's to come.
As for my list on Monday - I actually did get through most of it - we did not shop until yesterday, ate dinner out because of a house emergency that kept us out until 10 pm and I have not called the payment in for the aquarium field trip because I did not get a confirmation until yesterday late. That is actually pretty good for that list. I was out all day yesterday at doctor's appointments, voice lessons, a committee meeting, checking on the house, etc. We did get the grocery shopping done though as well as paid our son's college tuition, bought the copper farmhouse sink, and the fire escape ladder.
Although I should have more to write other than to-do lists, that is how busy I am. I am not even reading right now. The lists should get smaller soon.
On the docket today:
1. Meet with 2 customers for 3 quilt orders.
2. Oversee the pick up and subsequent drop off of the golf cart for repair.
3. Unpack and organize all homeschool materials/books
4. Catch up on laundry and hang all clothes (still packed)
5. Call payment into aquarium
6. Find a part on my Juki that is missing and order it.
7. Start crock pot dinner - chicken and dressing with green beans and carrots
8. Call my sister and say Happy Birthday
9. Have kids clean up their rooms
10. Quick wipe of bathrooms
11. Look at backsplash options for kitchen - some research is needed.
12. Sit down for a spell
There are other things that could be done, but these are the big ones today.
So, today is all about me just being at home. Plain and simple.
Monday, August 21, 2017
Eclipse
Was anyone in the totality areas? We decided to stay in the partial eclipse area here where we live. Luckily, I bought glasses a couple of months ago, so we had them and it made it so easy to view.
Since there was so much hype about bad glasses and people losing their vision, we only looked for a few seconds and then took a 10-15 minute break before looking again. It was very cool! The last time I saw it was through a pinhole, but the glasses give you a much different view.
Next time in 2024, the totality area is coming through Texas, so we will definitely see it. I hope my kids join me, but they will all be adults then, so it may just be me and hubs.
I tried to get a picture with my cell - holding the glasses in front of the lens AND my eyes. But mine could not get clear.
My daughter, however, got a great shot!
Since there was so much hype about bad glasses and people losing their vision, we only looked for a few seconds and then took a 10-15 minute break before looking again. It was very cool! The last time I saw it was through a pinhole, but the glasses give you a much different view.
Next time in 2024, the totality area is coming through Texas, so we will definitely see it. I hope my kids join me, but they will all be adults then, so it may just be me and hubs.
I tried to get a picture with my cell - holding the glasses in front of the lens AND my eyes. But mine could not get clear.
My daughter, however, got a great shot!
Manic Monday
This day is even more manic like because last week was off from reality really. Well, off from our daily life reality.
This is not only a Monday back from that, but a 1st Monday in a new place and a first Monday of starting homeschool and a first Monday of starting back at the business! My list today is very long and not very distinguished, so here we go.
Neither hubs nor I heard the alarm this morning, so we got a 20 minute late start. Worse for him than me. I got to go back to bed, but I did not sleep - I felt bad for missing the alarm (it is my job) and too much on my mind for the day.
I hope I can make good headway on this list - really, I need to get all of it done, and I will be enlisting the children to help.
1. Unpack and prep formal dining as my temporary Office and Sewing Room.
2. Find spot for printer and get it working
3. Print Price List
4. Print Order Forms
5. Accept Golf Cart Delivery
6. Check on Home Build
7. Take storage load to RV, Pick up things from RV
8. Unpack and organize the kitchen. There is not a ton, but we need to find space for the few things we brought and unpack food.
9. Make grocery shopping list from menu
10. Sweep Kitchen
11. Unload/Load Dishwasher
12. Print Aquarium Homeschool Field Trip form, fill out, send in, call for payment
13. Set Chiro Appointment
14. Set Permaculture Appointment
15. Cook Dinner
16. Take time to view the eclipse! Have kids finalize their reports.
17. Have daughter pick songs for her voice lesson tomorrow (we are totally lost on this!)
18. Go grocery shopping (probably hubs will do this)
I think I will leave it at that and see where we get. It is a lot for one day, but this will really set me up. I have a lot of places to go tomorrow, so I cannot get too much done then, then customers come 1st thing Wednesday morning. Really, the focus today is my business.
There you go - I hope your day is productive, not too manic and at least one thing makes you smile!
This is not only a Monday back from that, but a 1st Monday in a new place and a first Monday of starting homeschool and a first Monday of starting back at the business! My list today is very long and not very distinguished, so here we go.
Neither hubs nor I heard the alarm this morning, so we got a 20 minute late start. Worse for him than me. I got to go back to bed, but I did not sleep - I felt bad for missing the alarm (it is my job) and too much on my mind for the day.
I hope I can make good headway on this list - really, I need to get all of it done, and I will be enlisting the children to help.
1. Unpack and prep formal dining as my temporary Office and Sewing Room.
2. Find spot for printer and get it working
3. Print Price List
4. Print Order Forms
5. Accept Golf Cart Delivery
6. Check on Home Build
7. Take storage load to RV, Pick up things from RV
8. Unpack and organize the kitchen. There is not a ton, but we need to find space for the few things we brought and unpack food.
9. Make grocery shopping list from menu
10. Sweep Kitchen
11. Unload/Load Dishwasher
12. Print Aquarium Homeschool Field Trip form, fill out, send in, call for payment
13. Set Chiro Appointment
14. Set Permaculture Appointment
15. Cook Dinner
16. Take time to view the eclipse! Have kids finalize their reports.
17. Have daughter pick songs for her voice lesson tomorrow (we are totally lost on this!)
18. Go grocery shopping (probably hubs will do this)
I think I will leave it at that and see where we get. It is a lot for one day, but this will really set me up. I have a lot of places to go tomorrow, so I cannot get too much done then, then customers come 1st thing Wednesday morning. Really, the focus today is my business.
There you go - I hope your day is productive, not too manic and at least one thing makes you smile!
Friday, August 18, 2017
Week 29 Update
Wow! Where to begin. It has been a whirlwind week and really, I need about 2 more days - which I will not get. We will get there eventually though.
First, We went to help clean out my grandmother's house, but could not help much. My cousin who is the executor and was willed MOST of the items in her house, could not let go of anything. Hubs and I just threw away the trash mostly. We did get 5 boxes of things for ourselves. I took almost all of her pots and pans - copper bottom steel from the 50s, all her cast iron, and her 60s yellow bundt pan. Gadgets and just things we could use - like furniture pads, placemats, etc. My dad got the furniture, but every time I wanted a piece, my step-mother would say she wanted it - I mean this happened 5 times - items she did not even think about until I said something. Dad even got mad at her once, but I gave in. I took one stuffed chair and ottoman - it is a gorgeous bird and foliage fabric - definitely a statement piece, but so my grandparents' style. It is not the typical grandmother stuff - when we move in I will take a picture of it - it is wrapped in plastic right now. I also took a marble top plant stand.
We got back late Wednesday night and could not help but stop by the house. We were disappointed to see that really no more work had been done other than the ceiling of the patio and brick - nothing had been done inside!
Basically, we are waiting on supplies to be delivered.
Yesterday, we moved into our rental. OMG! It is gorgeous! Brand new and other than a few tweaks, it will work out great. The space for me to work in will work fine, I have not made a decision about the embroidery machine. It is huge - a 10-needle commercial machine and although there a good amount of space here, it is not a great layout. We are going to bring our dressers here - there are NONE - and our TV. Other than that, we are still living just on what we had at the RV. It feels so good to be in a house, I am moving more, smiling more, have a better outlook - it is wonderful.
OK, here we go - updates.
1. Land Home - Brick is going in and is GORGEOUS!!! Builder told us the masons would be done with all the stone and brick in about 2 weeks. I am not holding my breath, but I do think 2-3 weeks is doable. (I cannot help but think about that movie The Money Pit when my builder says 2 weeks)
The patio ceiling is almost done - there is a small section left (waiting on supplies), then we have to put in a finishing strip - not a quarterround, but a 1 x 2 whatever they call it.
The supplies to finish the trim and shelving is supposed to be there today so they can start working - when it gets in, they will take about 3 days to finish, then the painters can move it!
The saltillo tiles are expected to arrive on Tuesday and the tiler will come in. All he does is install saltillo tile and works slow. He sounds perfect! This type of tile is about 1" thick, but varies slightly in thickness. These are hand made and baked in the sun, so they are imperfect - which is what makes them perfect! So, the tiler cannot lay them like normal tile - more grout is needed and spacers do not work at all - it is all chalk lines and eyeballing. The finished product is gorgeous though - I mean really stunning.
OH, I almost forgot! Our stained glass is done and they are shipping it today!! This is for our "front door", the one that opens to the patio, but looks like a front door.
We went yesterday and looked at outdoor kitchen/grills and made a decision on them! We spoke with the builder and are going to purchase them today.
In addition to that, we need to buy the fire escape ladder, copper sink, and really all the lighting. That should pretty much wrap us up.
I need to set an appointment with the permaculture guy to get our design done and land grades figured out.
The business ensues!
RV Living - OK, this will be the last post of this one. We started moving out yesterday and have a little more to go - all the homeschool items mainly. Then we need to clean it really well and close it up. We are leaving it at the park until the end of the month because it is pre-paid and we cannot get that money back, plus we are waiting for some supplies to be moved. Then we are moving it to our land.
Homeschool - We decided this next week is not a good one to start, we are still trying to get settled here and have LOTS of appointments, plus DD's 1st audition. We will use this week to organize the books, set the schedule and get ready for starting the 28th - when all schools around here start.
Business - 4 quilt orders are coming in this week, so I need to get ready for them. I will do that Monday. I did get shirts of my grandmothers to make my cousin a quilt, so I need to get started on that as well. That is a joy though.
So, there you have it - so many more little things that go into life happened, cancelling the internet at the RV, getting the cable working here, meeting with the builder, getting gas, grocery shopping, mailing a card, etc, etc, etc.
I hope you all had a great week, I am off running now again - hopefully I can catch up on blog reading soon!
First, We went to help clean out my grandmother's house, but could not help much. My cousin who is the executor and was willed MOST of the items in her house, could not let go of anything. Hubs and I just threw away the trash mostly. We did get 5 boxes of things for ourselves. I took almost all of her pots and pans - copper bottom steel from the 50s, all her cast iron, and her 60s yellow bundt pan. Gadgets and just things we could use - like furniture pads, placemats, etc. My dad got the furniture, but every time I wanted a piece, my step-mother would say she wanted it - I mean this happened 5 times - items she did not even think about until I said something. Dad even got mad at her once, but I gave in. I took one stuffed chair and ottoman - it is a gorgeous bird and foliage fabric - definitely a statement piece, but so my grandparents' style. It is not the typical grandmother stuff - when we move in I will take a picture of it - it is wrapped in plastic right now. I also took a marble top plant stand.
We got back late Wednesday night and could not help but stop by the house. We were disappointed to see that really no more work had been done other than the ceiling of the patio and brick - nothing had been done inside!
Basically, we are waiting on supplies to be delivered.
Yesterday, we moved into our rental. OMG! It is gorgeous! Brand new and other than a few tweaks, it will work out great. The space for me to work in will work fine, I have not made a decision about the embroidery machine. It is huge - a 10-needle commercial machine and although there a good amount of space here, it is not a great layout. We are going to bring our dressers here - there are NONE - and our TV. Other than that, we are still living just on what we had at the RV. It feels so good to be in a house, I am moving more, smiling more, have a better outlook - it is wonderful.
OK, here we go - updates.
1. Land Home - Brick is going in and is GORGEOUS!!! Builder told us the masons would be done with all the stone and brick in about 2 weeks. I am not holding my breath, but I do think 2-3 weeks is doable. (I cannot help but think about that movie The Money Pit when my builder says 2 weeks)
The patio ceiling is almost done - there is a small section left (waiting on supplies), then we have to put in a finishing strip - not a quarterround, but a 1 x 2 whatever they call it.
The supplies to finish the trim and shelving is supposed to be there today so they can start working - when it gets in, they will take about 3 days to finish, then the painters can move it!
The saltillo tiles are expected to arrive on Tuesday and the tiler will come in. All he does is install saltillo tile and works slow. He sounds perfect! This type of tile is about 1" thick, but varies slightly in thickness. These are hand made and baked in the sun, so they are imperfect - which is what makes them perfect! So, the tiler cannot lay them like normal tile - more grout is needed and spacers do not work at all - it is all chalk lines and eyeballing. The finished product is gorgeous though - I mean really stunning.
OH, I almost forgot! Our stained glass is done and they are shipping it today!! This is for our "front door", the one that opens to the patio, but looks like a front door.
We went yesterday and looked at outdoor kitchen/grills and made a decision on them! We spoke with the builder and are going to purchase them today.
In addition to that, we need to buy the fire escape ladder, copper sink, and really all the lighting. That should pretty much wrap us up.
I need to set an appointment with the permaculture guy to get our design done and land grades figured out.
The business ensues!
RV Living - OK, this will be the last post of this one. We started moving out yesterday and have a little more to go - all the homeschool items mainly. Then we need to clean it really well and close it up. We are leaving it at the park until the end of the month because it is pre-paid and we cannot get that money back, plus we are waiting for some supplies to be moved. Then we are moving it to our land.
Homeschool - We decided this next week is not a good one to start, we are still trying to get settled here and have LOTS of appointments, plus DD's 1st audition. We will use this week to organize the books, set the schedule and get ready for starting the 28th - when all schools around here start.
Business - 4 quilt orders are coming in this week, so I need to get ready for them. I will do that Monday. I did get shirts of my grandmothers to make my cousin a quilt, so I need to get started on that as well. That is a joy though.
So, there you have it - so many more little things that go into life happened, cancelling the internet at the RV, getting the cable working here, meeting with the builder, getting gas, grocery shopping, mailing a card, etc, etc, etc.
I hope you all had a great week, I am off running now again - hopefully I can catch up on blog reading soon!
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Finishes going in!
The ceiling of the patio is actually the same color in both pictures, it was just the angle and light that makes it look different.
The brick is amazing! So much better than we imagined.
Sorry so quick, hubs is off this week and we are running like crazy.
Hope you all are having a good week.
Friday, August 11, 2017
Week 28 Update
The week started off awful, ended much better. I still am just ready for this whole process to be done and us to start living our regular lives. Such and adventure though.
Land and Home - I know this is an ever changing category - pretty much how I perceive it. There are multiple area of attention so even as I talk about it to my family, the name changes.
With the house, we are to the point where all the internal doors (except one*) are going in, as are all the baseboards, casings, and other such trim work. Masons will keep working on the outside - they are extremely slow with the stone work, but I guess you would want them to be! I am really excited to see some brick work! Those guys fly through that and it will really make the house look like it is coming together.
Really the good part about this week is we have finished the prep work and are starting on the finishes. We get paint next week!
The shed is finally underway! The concrete pad is done! Now they can get the steel work done. I was told that when the crew comes out there to start the welding (it is all steel construction) that it only takes a couple of days. They pre-make pieces of it, then a crane puts it in place, while welders do their job. Then the outside sheeting goes on, as does the insulation, put in the roll garage door and we are in business. Just got word it will be done the first week of September!
The other part is the actual land, but there is nothing we can do about it right now. The big trucks are coming in leave large ruts and there is so much digging to bury lines - plumbing, electric, water, sewage. It is a mess and then when it rains, there is mud everywhere! I told my DH that I just cannot wait until I am not slogging through mud and dirt all the time.
RV Living: Well, if you did not catch it - this category will cease to exist in 1 week time. We are giving up on RV living. Lots of reason - I mean LOTS of reason, but mainly, we just hit a wall and are done. We move into the VRBO rental next week.
Homeschool: I am really wanting to start prepping, but so many things are keeping me from it. Between cleaning out my grandmother's home to moving to overseeing things at the property - it is a more than full time. When I had my mini breakdown earlier this week and stop doing anything for one day, DH tearfully said to me - "You are amazing, I don't know how you handle it all in one day, I was about to have a breakdown myself!" Yep, I juggle quite a bit (nothing like Kim though).
We are going to get started probably the 23rd or 24th - at a modified pace - math and language arts. Then add everything in after Labor Day.
My DD is going to be auditioning for a musical in a couple of weeks. We are all amazed at her transformation in just 2 weeks of theater - she speaks louder, is more animated - it is like she found her voice. Brought tears to my eyes.
Business: Yes, this is going again. I have 4 quilts that are actually on order and another one possibly. I am hesitant to completely put it out there until we move into our home, but I do need something to do.
Oh, and I scored on supplies! I bought 149 yards of interfacing and 3 queen size batting bags for $104! The original price was $310. I never buy this stuff for full price, but this is an amazing deal! I can probably get 6-7 quilts done with that amount of interfacing and 3-4 quilts out of the batting.
* I forgot to add why that door is not being installed like the others. We had to put in a glass door to the laundry room because it opens out to the hallway. There is a door coming into the laundry room from outside, so someone coming into the house can see if someone is walking down the hall and someone walking down the hall can see if someone is coming in. Nothing with glass is being put in until the very end.
Land and Home - I know this is an ever changing category - pretty much how I perceive it. There are multiple area of attention so even as I talk about it to my family, the name changes.
With the house, we are to the point where all the internal doors (except one*) are going in, as are all the baseboards, casings, and other such trim work. Masons will keep working on the outside - they are extremely slow with the stone work, but I guess you would want them to be! I am really excited to see some brick work! Those guys fly through that and it will really make the house look like it is coming together.
Really the good part about this week is we have finished the prep work and are starting on the finishes. We get paint next week!
The shed is finally underway! The concrete pad is done! Now they can get the steel work done. I was told that when the crew comes out there to start the welding (it is all steel construction) that it only takes a couple of days. They pre-make pieces of it, then a crane puts it in place, while welders do their job. Then the outside sheeting goes on, as does the insulation, put in the roll garage door and we are in business. Just got word it will be done the first week of September!
The other part is the actual land, but there is nothing we can do about it right now. The big trucks are coming in leave large ruts and there is so much digging to bury lines - plumbing, electric, water, sewage. It is a mess and then when it rains, there is mud everywhere! I told my DH that I just cannot wait until I am not slogging through mud and dirt all the time.
RV Living: Well, if you did not catch it - this category will cease to exist in 1 week time. We are giving up on RV living. Lots of reason - I mean LOTS of reason, but mainly, we just hit a wall and are done. We move into the VRBO rental next week.
Homeschool: I am really wanting to start prepping, but so many things are keeping me from it. Between cleaning out my grandmother's home to moving to overseeing things at the property - it is a more than full time. When I had my mini breakdown earlier this week and stop doing anything for one day, DH tearfully said to me - "You are amazing, I don't know how you handle it all in one day, I was about to have a breakdown myself!" Yep, I juggle quite a bit (nothing like Kim though).
We are going to get started probably the 23rd or 24th - at a modified pace - math and language arts. Then add everything in after Labor Day.
My DD is going to be auditioning for a musical in a couple of weeks. We are all amazed at her transformation in just 2 weeks of theater - she speaks louder, is more animated - it is like she found her voice. Brought tears to my eyes.
Business: Yes, this is going again. I have 4 quilts that are actually on order and another one possibly. I am hesitant to completely put it out there until we move into our home, but I do need something to do.
Oh, and I scored on supplies! I bought 149 yards of interfacing and 3 queen size batting bags for $104! The original price was $310. I never buy this stuff for full price, but this is an amazing deal! I can probably get 6-7 quilts done with that amount of interfacing and 3-4 quilts out of the batting.
* I forgot to add why that door is not being installed like the others. We had to put in a glass door to the laundry room because it opens out to the hallway. There is a door coming into the laundry room from outside, so someone coming into the house can see if someone is walking down the hall and someone walking down the hall can see if someone is coming in. Nothing with glass is being put in until the very end.
Thursday, August 10, 2017
Birthday and Stuff
Yes, today is my Birthday. I am perpetually 29 according to my husband, but I don't mind getting older - I earned the right to get older! I am 44 today - still young enough to accomplish much, old enough to take naps (according to my kids - they send me away for nap time) and I am looking forward to when it is just hubs and me for a while.
I am not into birthdays as a celebration really - no one in my family usually acknowledges it, so I just stopped caring about it a long time ago. It was my luck of the draw with a family that is just sort of not with it.
With that, nothing special is planned - too much going on in everyone else's lives to worry about mine!
We FINALLY got the concrete poured for the shed this morning! It was an amazing site to see. Since the pad had been sitting there for so long - over 2 months, some of the dirt washed out. The concrete guys just "packed" some more in. Good grief. I will have to talk to my builder about what he can do to reinforce it.
For an even better morning surprise, the sheetrock guys textured yesterday! This was supposed to happen earlier this week, but they surprised us all by showing up last evening. No one knew, it is was a total surprise to all of us. No worries - those beams are wrapped in plastic.
Then, I walk outside checking things out and happen to look up - WOW! The Chimney is being stoned! They will get done this today! Moving on.
That is pretty much it for this week by way of work. Some deliveries will come in. I am sure the masons will keep on going, but nothing like today.
Other than that, I am picking up some food for the cast this evening. There were no drinks or food and they had 2 shows and had been there since 10 am. They were all very thirsty and hungry. I am just doing some snacky things - cheese and crackers, veggies, grapes and a cooler of bottle iced water - those stage lights are HOT!
Both DS and I are going to the 5 pm show. Then all the kiddos are meeting up for the 7:30 show and then going to dinner.
It is a cute play - a condensed and modernized version of Shakespeare, but with Shakespeares words. For a week's worth of practice, these kids are amazing!
Well, that it is for me today - I need to clean the kitchenette and start getting ready to pack up the kids and ourselves for the big move! There are no regrets with this moving to a rental. My outlook is so much better, the kids are laughing again, we were in a really low place. Really low place.
I am not into birthdays as a celebration really - no one in my family usually acknowledges it, so I just stopped caring about it a long time ago. It was my luck of the draw with a family that is just sort of not with it.
With that, nothing special is planned - too much going on in everyone else's lives to worry about mine!
We FINALLY got the concrete poured for the shed this morning! It was an amazing site to see. Since the pad had been sitting there for so long - over 2 months, some of the dirt washed out. The concrete guys just "packed" some more in. Good grief. I will have to talk to my builder about what he can do to reinforce it.
For an even better morning surprise, the sheetrock guys textured yesterday! This was supposed to happen earlier this week, but they surprised us all by showing up last evening. No one knew, it is was a total surprise to all of us. No worries - those beams are wrapped in plastic.
Then, I walk outside checking things out and happen to look up - WOW! The Chimney is being stoned! They will get done this today! Moving on.
That is pretty much it for this week by way of work. Some deliveries will come in. I am sure the masons will keep on going, but nothing like today.
Other than that, I am picking up some food for the cast this evening. There were no drinks or food and they had 2 shows and had been there since 10 am. They were all very thirsty and hungry. I am just doing some snacky things - cheese and crackers, veggies, grapes and a cooler of bottle iced water - those stage lights are HOT!
Both DS and I are going to the 5 pm show. Then all the kiddos are meeting up for the 7:30 show and then going to dinner.
It is a cute play - a condensed and modernized version of Shakespeare, but with Shakespeares words. For a week's worth of practice, these kids are amazing!
Well, that it is for me today - I need to clean the kitchenette and start getting ready to pack up the kids and ourselves for the big move! There are no regrets with this moving to a rental. My outlook is so much better, the kids are laughing again, we were in a really low place. Really low place.
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
New Day
Lots of talking between my DH and the builder last night and the builder admitted to dropping the ball on some things. That made me feel better - for him to admit it.
So here is the deal - still not great, but it will be a bit better.
1) The Master Bath - we are going to push back the shower pony wall by about 5 inches. That will make the walkway approx. 43.5" to walk between the shower and vanity. Still tight, but much more doable than the 38". Sometimes a few inches makes all the difference.
Oh and for completely redoing it, it would consist of taking the roof off and pouring more foundation, reworking the plumbing, etc so close to $50,000 just to open up the bathroom. We will work with what we've got!
2) The Kitchen Island - We had to compromise because of our sink. I am only getting a 33" inch, but a sink of that size has to go in a 36" cabinet or 34", but this manufacturer does not make it in that size. So, we have the dishwasher - which is a set in stone size, the sink cabinet - 36" and a trash drawer - 21". We gained about 5" inches of walk space and that will have to do.
We told him that he really needs to pay attention to those narrow areas and make sure people understand what they are getting into. He agreed.
Moving on. The electric company put in the pole, now we just need to get the underground wiring done and we can install a meter. Other than that, the rain has caused a delay. Lots of things should be done while we are gone.
My daughter's shows start tonight! DS and I are going to the first one, then DH and some friends of ours are going to the second. Tomorrow, I will go to both sets and the whole family is attending the last one! 2 family events this month after all.
It is run, run, run today. I am so tired that I feel like I could pass out right now.
No rest for the weary - at least until Sunday.
I am off - have to dinner in the crock pot - potatoes, sausage and green beans (by request from Miss Actress). Fold clothes, shower, and clean up a bit.
Keeping it real!
So here is the deal - still not great, but it will be a bit better.
1) The Master Bath - we are going to push back the shower pony wall by about 5 inches. That will make the walkway approx. 43.5" to walk between the shower and vanity. Still tight, but much more doable than the 38". Sometimes a few inches makes all the difference.
Oh and for completely redoing it, it would consist of taking the roof off and pouring more foundation, reworking the plumbing, etc so close to $50,000 just to open up the bathroom. We will work with what we've got!
2) The Kitchen Island - We had to compromise because of our sink. I am only getting a 33" inch, but a sink of that size has to go in a 36" cabinet or 34", but this manufacturer does not make it in that size. So, we have the dishwasher - which is a set in stone size, the sink cabinet - 36" and a trash drawer - 21". We gained about 5" inches of walk space and that will have to do.
We told him that he really needs to pay attention to those narrow areas and make sure people understand what they are getting into. He agreed.
Moving on. The electric company put in the pole, now we just need to get the underground wiring done and we can install a meter. Other than that, the rain has caused a delay. Lots of things should be done while we are gone.
My daughter's shows start tonight! DS and I are going to the first one, then DH and some friends of ours are going to the second. Tomorrow, I will go to both sets and the whole family is attending the last one! 2 family events this month after all.
It is run, run, run today. I am so tired that I feel like I could pass out right now.
No rest for the weary - at least until Sunday.
I am off - have to dinner in the crock pot - potatoes, sausage and green beans (by request from Miss Actress). Fold clothes, shower, and clean up a bit.
Keeping it real!
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Today is not better
I did get a little sleep - about 4 hours. It helped, just luck is not on my side right now.
Let me explain why I am upset about the house.
1) Kitchen - I have to have the island - the design of the house was built around and the plumbing for the sink and dishwasher is in the foundation. For me to move it would mean A TON of money.
The cabinet maker is going to make it about 6 inches thinner, which will work, but I will have a smaller than usual sink. The problem was the space walking between the pantry and the side of this island - very tight space. It is just not what I wanted.
2) The Master Bathroom - It is a very thin bathroom. If someone is standing at the sink, another person cannot walk by without the person at the sink scrunching up. How often will that happen - a lot - to get to the toilet or the closet you have to walk by the sinks. There is nothing that can be done about it and I am very upset about it.
OK, why this bothers me so badly is that neither the architect nor the builder said anything to me about these spaces. They acted like it was a normal thing and those sizes were everywhere. DH and I tried to measure it out, but until you actually see it - it is so abstract that you cannot tell. Out of the two - I am most upset about the bathroom.
Now, I do lay some of the blame on the architect and builder, but mostly on me. I have screwed up our house. I signed off on these blue prints. Everytime I think about it I cry. I cannot even make decisions anymore because I feel like I am going to screw something else up.
DH is going to meet with the builder tonight about the closet. I cannot meet with him right now. The builder is not answering my texts or email, but he is answering DH's. That infuriates me even more.
At this point, there is absolutely nothing I can do about any of it and a normal person would let it go, but I cannot seem to do it. Maybe when it is all done I can.
Everything seems to have that luster of sucking right now.
The concrete cannot be laid because we are having a week of flood producing rain. Seriously - the week finally came that they were going work on the shed and we get this.
I went to the bank to get our monthly cash and make a deposit. System is down - they cannot make any transactions.
Go to the library. No parking whatsoever and I did not have my library card with me. Sigh.
DH and I finally get a week together to spend time with each other (ie not doing so great right now), but we have to go clean out my grandmother's house. Then move as soon as we get back for one day, then go pick up the kids. Keep in mind - my grandmother lived 8 hours from me. The sister is 5 hours from me in the opposite direction of my grandmother.
Homeschool starts that next week and no we cannot put it off any more. Some of the extra-curriculars are starting their sessions, so we have to get organized.
I am just trying to breathe and work it all one day at a time.
Let me explain why I am upset about the house.
1) Kitchen - I have to have the island - the design of the house was built around and the plumbing for the sink and dishwasher is in the foundation. For me to move it would mean A TON of money.
The cabinet maker is going to make it about 6 inches thinner, which will work, but I will have a smaller than usual sink. The problem was the space walking between the pantry and the side of this island - very tight space. It is just not what I wanted.
2) The Master Bathroom - It is a very thin bathroom. If someone is standing at the sink, another person cannot walk by without the person at the sink scrunching up. How often will that happen - a lot - to get to the toilet or the closet you have to walk by the sinks. There is nothing that can be done about it and I am very upset about it.
OK, why this bothers me so badly is that neither the architect nor the builder said anything to me about these spaces. They acted like it was a normal thing and those sizes were everywhere. DH and I tried to measure it out, but until you actually see it - it is so abstract that you cannot tell. Out of the two - I am most upset about the bathroom.
Now, I do lay some of the blame on the architect and builder, but mostly on me. I have screwed up our house. I signed off on these blue prints. Everytime I think about it I cry. I cannot even make decisions anymore because I feel like I am going to screw something else up.
DH is going to meet with the builder tonight about the closet. I cannot meet with him right now. The builder is not answering my texts or email, but he is answering DH's. That infuriates me even more.
At this point, there is absolutely nothing I can do about any of it and a normal person would let it go, but I cannot seem to do it. Maybe when it is all done I can.
Everything seems to have that luster of sucking right now.
The concrete cannot be laid because we are having a week of flood producing rain. Seriously - the week finally came that they were going work on the shed and we get this.
I went to the bank to get our monthly cash and make a deposit. System is down - they cannot make any transactions.
Go to the library. No parking whatsoever and I did not have my library card with me. Sigh.
DH and I finally get a week together to spend time with each other (ie not doing so great right now), but we have to go clean out my grandmother's house. Then move as soon as we get back for one day, then go pick up the kids. Keep in mind - my grandmother lived 8 hours from me. The sister is 5 hours from me in the opposite direction of my grandmother.
Homeschool starts that next week and no we cannot put it off any more. Some of the extra-curriculars are starting their sessions, so we have to get organized.
I am just trying to breathe and work it all one day at a time.
Monday, August 7, 2017
Overwhelmed again
I feel like the world just keeps crashing on me over and over and over again. I think my nerves are so frayed that every little thing is just like Mt. Everest!
Today, Rain - so no work on the house. No concrete.
Times for DD camp changed so I had to cancel an appointment I really need and now it looks like I will not be able to reschedule for 2 or more weeks.
I have to go clean out my grandmother's house next week.
I also have to move next week.
I am not liking how small our master bathroom is or how small the island has to be in the kitchen - basically walk spaces are too narrow - which bothers me greatly because now we cannot do anything about it and I wish our builder, the architect - someone would have explained this to me. Size is so abstract when it is 2D.
Our awning on the RV is going.
My back is out (appointment I needed) and it is not getting better, worse. My leg is going numb again. If I start falling, that means I will be back in a wheelchair - this sucks.
I am getting heart palpitations daily.
The builder is getting on my very nerve - absent mostly, condescending - but that is probably my perception through my negative filter.
This show is overwhelming the hell out of me.
I just want all of this to be over so I can have a home and normalcy again. Though the building has been going on for 4 months, we have been going full throttle since January. I am tired - I cannot sleep - not in 2 days. I try, but it is not happening.
I am looking forward to being in a house, but since I now have to clean out my grandmother's place - it is delayed about a week.
My outlook will be better if I can get some sleep - let's all hope it comes tonight.
Today, Rain - so no work on the house. No concrete.
Times for DD camp changed so I had to cancel an appointment I really need and now it looks like I will not be able to reschedule for 2 or more weeks.
I have to go clean out my grandmother's house next week.
I also have to move next week.
I am not liking how small our master bathroom is or how small the island has to be in the kitchen - basically walk spaces are too narrow - which bothers me greatly because now we cannot do anything about it and I wish our builder, the architect - someone would have explained this to me. Size is so abstract when it is 2D.
Our awning on the RV is going.
My back is out (appointment I needed) and it is not getting better, worse. My leg is going numb again. If I start falling, that means I will be back in a wheelchair - this sucks.
I am getting heart palpitations daily.
The builder is getting on my very nerve - absent mostly, condescending - but that is probably my perception through my negative filter.
This show is overwhelming the hell out of me.
I just want all of this to be over so I can have a home and normalcy again. Though the building has been going on for 4 months, we have been going full throttle since January. I am tired - I cannot sleep - not in 2 days. I try, but it is not happening.
I am looking forward to being in a house, but since I now have to clean out my grandmother's place - it is delayed about a week.
My outlook will be better if I can get some sleep - let's all hope it comes tonight.
Saturday, August 5, 2017
I am so excited!
I was going to wait to say anything, but I cannot tell anyone yet and I have to tell someone.
We decided today that we are definitely moving out of this RV. 10 days left! We rented a townhome on VRBO and because of an unexpected bonus, we decided to move out of the RV for our last couple of months so we can get our lives back.
With this, I will be able to partially get my business working again - Tshirt Quilts only - which is what my waiting list consists of. There is no room for my embroidery machine, however. We also will be able to buy a weeks worth of groceries at a time being able to take advantage of sales. The kids will start homeschooling immediately as well.
We will have a master bedroom with our own bathroom and each child will have their own room. They have to share a shower, but with 2 1/2 baths, we can dedicate one toilet to each child.
The feeling was that the quality of life would improve so dramatically that it is worth the extra cost. The RV will be moved to our property and as soon as the barn/shed is built, our off-site storage rooms will be vacated.
A library is right across the street from us and I mean literally across the street. The townhome is 2,200 sq ft, so lots of space.
I cannot tell you how excited I am. I will never regret our time in this RV, it certainly served its purpose, it is just time to get our lives back, our privacy back, our intimacy back.
For those considering living in a RV while building - I HIGHLY recommend it. For us, it would have been completely worth it IF we did not have teenagers. If it were just my husband and I, we would be fine.
We are waiting to tell the kids until they come back from my sister's. We are moving while they are gone. It will be an amazing surprise. Obviously, it will be best when we are in our home, but this will help me when the build goes over time or if anything comes up. It is just easier to swallow when you have a door and a private bathroom.
As for the RV, we are asked all the time if we are getting rid of it. Emphatically NO!!! We are actually taking it when we take our son back to college. Road Trip! It is way more comfortable than a hotel.
Other than that, we are stuck at home mainly because DD will have theater practice every weekend until the holidays. We are also considering a trip to DC, but I don't know if will be in the RV or not.
Hope you are having a great weekend - mine just got great!
We decided today that we are definitely moving out of this RV. 10 days left! We rented a townhome on VRBO and because of an unexpected bonus, we decided to move out of the RV for our last couple of months so we can get our lives back.
With this, I will be able to partially get my business working again - Tshirt Quilts only - which is what my waiting list consists of. There is no room for my embroidery machine, however. We also will be able to buy a weeks worth of groceries at a time being able to take advantage of sales. The kids will start homeschooling immediately as well.
We will have a master bedroom with our own bathroom and each child will have their own room. They have to share a shower, but with 2 1/2 baths, we can dedicate one toilet to each child.
The feeling was that the quality of life would improve so dramatically that it is worth the extra cost. The RV will be moved to our property and as soon as the barn/shed is built, our off-site storage rooms will be vacated.
A library is right across the street from us and I mean literally across the street. The townhome is 2,200 sq ft, so lots of space.
I cannot tell you how excited I am. I will never regret our time in this RV, it certainly served its purpose, it is just time to get our lives back, our privacy back, our intimacy back.
For those considering living in a RV while building - I HIGHLY recommend it. For us, it would have been completely worth it IF we did not have teenagers. If it were just my husband and I, we would be fine.
We are waiting to tell the kids until they come back from my sister's. We are moving while they are gone. It will be an amazing surprise. Obviously, it will be best when we are in our home, but this will help me when the build goes over time or if anything comes up. It is just easier to swallow when you have a door and a private bathroom.
As for the RV, we are asked all the time if we are getting rid of it. Emphatically NO!!! We are actually taking it when we take our son back to college. Road Trip! It is way more comfortable than a hotel.
Other than that, we are stuck at home mainly because DD will have theater practice every weekend until the holidays. We are also considering a trip to DC, but I don't know if will be in the RV or not.
Hope you are having a great weekend - mine just got great!
Week 27 Update
This week was a tough one. Frustrations, Boredom, Complacency, Laziness, Over-bearing, Blah, Blah, Blah.
Things are starting to get to me - well, let's face it - they have from the beginning, but I have been good at keeping them in check. I literally broke this week - literally.
New Home: I am not sure how much happened this week. Nothing major really. The drywall was floated and taped, then mudded. I need to take pictures, but I have not been up to it. Maybe tomorrow - it is so rainy and hot that it makes it difficult and draining.
The mason was supposed to start, but only has only minimally prepped. The electric pole was supposed to go in, it did not. The cabinets were discussed, but the plan was not complete, so no decision there.
Between my builder's lack of attention to our place, the trash thrown in the wall and the constant rain - I am down about it all. It will get done, I know, but it seems very difficult with me having to push and push to make anything happen. I feel sometimes like I should have been the head contractor, but I know that our builder does help and so many things like inspections are done without my knowledge.
RV Living: Sorry - more complaints here. I am so done with living in this RV. We have been here for 4 months and I am done. Our kids are done. My DH is done. We are done. I have not talked to DH yet, but I am seriously thinking about getting a VRBO place or something. I am that kind of done.
I miss a good shower, a place to chop vegetables, a bed to stretch out in, not worrying about sewage, a place for the kids to get separation, a place to work, a place to breath.
I don't know if it will happen, but we WILL have a conversation about it.
Homeschool: I am starting to think about it more. They have papers due in a couple of weeks about the eclipse. We are going to stream it through Lowell Observatory (in Flagstaff, AZ - we love this place!) in the morning, then we have our glasses for when it passes over us. They will present their reports in the evening to Dad and me.
DD is Lady Montague in Romeo and Juliet - a loose, condensed version. Lady Montague is an amalgam of Lord Montague and Lady Montague set in a modern time, but done in old english. Should be interesting - the play is this next week. We are also starting to prep for her Little Women Audition.
Business: You would think there is nothing going on, but I am getting calls almost daily! I need to start working! It is all I am thinking about. An order for 9 quilts, another 3 quilt order - all willing to wait for me. I am up to about 30 quilts now. Last year I made 56 quilts - holy crap - I almost have a year's worth of work waiting for me!
Next week is slated to be very similar as this one. Hopefully I will have more to say about the house build though in a more positive light!
Things are starting to get to me - well, let's face it - they have from the beginning, but I have been good at keeping them in check. I literally broke this week - literally.
New Home: I am not sure how much happened this week. Nothing major really. The drywall was floated and taped, then mudded. I need to take pictures, but I have not been up to it. Maybe tomorrow - it is so rainy and hot that it makes it difficult and draining.
The mason was supposed to start, but only has only minimally prepped. The electric pole was supposed to go in, it did not. The cabinets were discussed, but the plan was not complete, so no decision there.
Between my builder's lack of attention to our place, the trash thrown in the wall and the constant rain - I am down about it all. It will get done, I know, but it seems very difficult with me having to push and push to make anything happen. I feel sometimes like I should have been the head contractor, but I know that our builder does help and so many things like inspections are done without my knowledge.
RV Living: Sorry - more complaints here. I am so done with living in this RV. We have been here for 4 months and I am done. Our kids are done. My DH is done. We are done. I have not talked to DH yet, but I am seriously thinking about getting a VRBO place or something. I am that kind of done.
I miss a good shower, a place to chop vegetables, a bed to stretch out in, not worrying about sewage, a place for the kids to get separation, a place to work, a place to breath.
I don't know if it will happen, but we WILL have a conversation about it.
Homeschool: I am starting to think about it more. They have papers due in a couple of weeks about the eclipse. We are going to stream it through Lowell Observatory (in Flagstaff, AZ - we love this place!) in the morning, then we have our glasses for when it passes over us. They will present their reports in the evening to Dad and me.
DD is Lady Montague in Romeo and Juliet - a loose, condensed version. Lady Montague is an amalgam of Lord Montague and Lady Montague set in a modern time, but done in old english. Should be interesting - the play is this next week. We are also starting to prep for her Little Women Audition.
Business: You would think there is nothing going on, but I am getting calls almost daily! I need to start working! It is all I am thinking about. An order for 9 quilts, another 3 quilt order - all willing to wait for me. I am up to about 30 quilts now. Last year I made 56 quilts - holy crap - I almost have a year's worth of work waiting for me!
Next week is slated to be very similar as this one. Hopefully I will have more to say about the house build though in a more positive light!
Friday, August 4, 2017
Decisions being made for me
DD is doing so fabulous in her class! She is liking more and more each day and although her teacher is a pain, DD is getting used to her style.
So, we are going to do theater in the fall! Yesterday, DD was called aside and told that she has talent and needs to do a full semester production. No other kids were told that (that she knows of), so Little Women here we come! Its a musical - Lord help me.
But what this means, is the Teen-led newspaper/newsletter is out. There is no way I can run all around with the theater stuff and homeschool, run a business and lead a newspaper - this was going to be for her to write, but the theater is going to take up too much of her spare time. Not to mention the school load she will have, and getting her learner's permit to drive in a few months.
Check, check!
It is raining again today, so not much work is getting on the house. They were going to start the brick, but I doubt that will happen today.
Last night when we took everyone (family dinner - check) up to see since they had not seen the sheetrock, I noticed that the workers had been throwing trash in my walls! I BLEW A GASKET! We made it through the concrete pour, the framing, utility work and initial drywall with NOT a bit of trash in the walls. So, now that walls are up and they are taping, they decide to throw trash in the access panels. You have got to be kidding me.
With that, I am off - have to check on them and make sure there is no retaliation!
So, we are going to do theater in the fall! Yesterday, DD was called aside and told that she has talent and needs to do a full semester production. No other kids were told that (that she knows of), so Little Women here we come! Its a musical - Lord help me.
But what this means, is the Teen-led newspaper/newsletter is out. There is no way I can run all around with the theater stuff and homeschool, run a business and lead a newspaper - this was going to be for her to write, but the theater is going to take up too much of her spare time. Not to mention the school load she will have, and getting her learner's permit to drive in a few months.
Check, check!
It is raining again today, so not much work is getting on the house. They were going to start the brick, but I doubt that will happen today.
Last night when we took everyone (family dinner - check) up to see since they had not seen the sheetrock, I noticed that the workers had been throwing trash in my walls! I BLEW A GASKET! We made it through the concrete pour, the framing, utility work and initial drywall with NOT a bit of trash in the walls. So, now that walls are up and they are taping, they decide to throw trash in the access panels. You have got to be kidding me.
With that, I am off - have to check on them and make sure there is no retaliation!
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Do You Believe in Miracles?
There are certain times that I WHOLEHEARTEDLY believe in miracles!
Take this morning for instance. Crap morning - I am in mega pain from helping move the furniture, then lug an air conditioner around plus the usual visit from Aunt Flo. Had to get up early to take DD to theater camp when a text comes in (before coffee!). When can I meet the builder up there to make a decision on the wall air conditioner? I gave a morning time. That was no good. How about 4? Nope, picking up DD AND late is out because we are doing the family dinner.
Sigh.
Builder decides I can just meet with his assistant that doesn't speak a lot of English and honestly, this is my husband's baby - I don't know where he want the condenser to go! I know this sounds a little childish, but I am making so many decisions and have to research so much - this is his one thing. DH is fine with making the decision, but it had to be made today while he is a meeting and cannot drive 1 hour to say, "put it here."
Also, while I am trying to sign and speak in broken Spanish, I get a phone call.
Let the LIGHT shine on!
It was the Shed Place - they want to pour the concrete on Monday! "I believe in miracles. Where you from - you sexy thing, you sexy thing you." I could not believe and I am sure the sound of shock was apparent in my voice. The guy is actually going tomorrow to look at it and as long as the weather is clear (which it is kind of rainy right now), then they can pour on Monday. Even if the weather puts us back, we are 1st in line now! WOOHOO!
I may have a shed by the end of August after all.
Which means a whole lot of things - we are partially considering moving to the property at that point - long shot, but it is there. We definitely will have a workshop going and a place to sit and be should I need to spend a long time there waiting for deliveries and such.
Ah, yes, there are so many possibilities.
Take this morning for instance. Crap morning - I am in mega pain from helping move the furniture, then lug an air conditioner around plus the usual visit from Aunt Flo. Had to get up early to take DD to theater camp when a text comes in (before coffee!). When can I meet the builder up there to make a decision on the wall air conditioner? I gave a morning time. That was no good. How about 4? Nope, picking up DD AND late is out because we are doing the family dinner.
Sigh.
Builder decides I can just meet with his assistant that doesn't speak a lot of English and honestly, this is my husband's baby - I don't know where he want the condenser to go! I know this sounds a little childish, but I am making so many decisions and have to research so much - this is his one thing. DH is fine with making the decision, but it had to be made today while he is a meeting and cannot drive 1 hour to say, "put it here."
Also, while I am trying to sign and speak in broken Spanish, I get a phone call.
Let the LIGHT shine on!
It was the Shed Place - they want to pour the concrete on Monday! "I believe in miracles. Where you from - you sexy thing, you sexy thing you." I could not believe and I am sure the sound of shock was apparent in my voice. The guy is actually going tomorrow to look at it and as long as the weather is clear (which it is kind of rainy right now), then they can pour on Monday. Even if the weather puts us back, we are 1st in line now! WOOHOO!
I may have a shed by the end of August after all.
Which means a whole lot of things - we are partially considering moving to the property at that point - long shot, but it is there. We definitely will have a workshop going and a place to sit and be should I need to spend a long time there waiting for deliveries and such.
Ah, yes, there are so many possibilities.
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
Patio View - video
This is a view from my patio. I stood in one spot and just did a quick span. It is a rainy, very hot day - feels like a rain forest!
I love the sounds though. It is a great napping spot.
I love the sounds though. It is a great napping spot.
New Day - August Goals?
OK, I think the nervous stomach was not being able to get that room ready for us. It was a huge blow. I was going to move just my regular sewing machine up there and sew us some bags and things like that while the kids worked on their homeschool.
BUT, that is not the case now, so we have to plan for something else.
August Goals:
New House Related
1. Reschedule all deliveries for mid-September - appliances, furniture, hot tub, etc
2. Clean up the house area every weekend
3. Refinish front door
4. Start work on rolltop desk?
5. Order kitchen sink
6. Order all lighting
7. Finalized/order outside kitchen items - sink, fridge, storage cabinet, grill
8. Purchase rain catcher basin
9. Follow up and push Shed production!
10. Make appointment with Permaculture Consultant
Kids Related
1. Family Dinner with all 6 of us!
2. Get list of needed supplies from college boy and shop!
3. Pay tuition for college after scholarship are logged
4. Sell ticket for play DD will be in
5. Take DS to at least one social event
6. Get overall homeschool plan set
7. Plan first month in written format of homeschool
8. Decide for sure if teen led newsletter/newspaper is going to happen.
9. Work together to develop a plan for physical excercise
10. Book hotel for taking college boy back to school
Me Related
1. Utilize planner daily - specifically with goals, not just check lists
2. Eat lunch daily - I have a habit of not eating until I am ravenous around 3 pm.
3. Consciously drink more water - at least refill my Yeti 4 times.
4. Back stretching daily - this is a MUST - my back has gotten bad and stretching is a paramount!
5. Set a time to start getting up daily in preparations for the school year.
6. Get a massage
7. Make daily cleaning checklist
8. Create year long menu - yes, this is something I really want to do!
9. Create and send out We've Moved cards
10. Gratitude Journal. I need to spend a little time thinking about the good - I would like to purchase one I can fill in rather than brainstorming. This should be a nightly thing.
OK, I am off to be a taxi driver! You all have a great day!
BUT, that is not the case now, so we have to plan for something else.
August Goals:
New House Related
1. Reschedule all deliveries for mid-September - appliances, furniture, hot tub, etc
2. Clean up the house area every weekend
3. Refinish front door
4. Start work on rolltop desk?
5. Order kitchen sink
6. Order all lighting
7. Finalized/order outside kitchen items - sink, fridge, storage cabinet, grill
8. Purchase rain catcher basin
9. Follow up and push Shed production!
10. Make appointment with Permaculture Consultant
Kids Related
1. Family Dinner with all 6 of us!
2. Get list of needed supplies from college boy and shop!
3. Pay tuition for college after scholarship are logged
4. Sell ticket for play DD will be in
5. Take DS to at least one social event
6. Get overall homeschool plan set
7. Plan first month in written format of homeschool
8. Decide for sure if teen led newsletter/newspaper is going to happen.
9. Work together to develop a plan for physical excercise
10. Book hotel for taking college boy back to school
Me Related
1. Utilize planner daily - specifically with goals, not just check lists
2. Eat lunch daily - I have a habit of not eating until I am ravenous around 3 pm.
3. Consciously drink more water - at least refill my Yeti 4 times.
4. Back stretching daily - this is a MUST - my back has gotten bad and stretching is a paramount!
5. Set a time to start getting up daily in preparations for the school year.
6. Get a massage
7. Make daily cleaning checklist
8. Create year long menu - yes, this is something I really want to do!
9. Create and send out We've Moved cards
10. Gratitude Journal. I need to spend a little time thinking about the good - I would like to purchase one I can fill in rather than brainstorming. This should be a nightly thing.
OK, I am off to be a taxi driver! You all have a great day!
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Strange Feeling today
Day 2 of my daughter's camp and I don't like her teacher. Figures - with me being her end all be all teacher. It is hard to stand back and watch her deal with it. Theater people are usually very drama oriented and with my science background, I just don't understand it. This teacher is frustrated with her because my DD has no theater background and it slowing everyone down. Well, if this was for experienced actors only, we would not have registered for it.
I digress - she is still wanting to do it, so it is her call until there is actual abuse. Good Lord, I cannot wait until all this is not under my control anymore. I raised my kiddos independent, so the older ones only come to me when it is really bad or after they have done something about it. They are very adult and it is a much easier relationship.
So, my strange feeling is a butterfly stomach, but not really - nervous, some would say anxious, but I am not anxious. I usually get this when a change is coming. Could be good or bad. I bet if I had a pet, they would be acting crazy too.
I did find out today that we more than likely will not be able to be in the loft by September, which I was really hoping for the starting back of homeschool.
Lots of waiting around right now, so I am being tested on my patience. I want to start sewing so badly it is hurting right now. All in due time though - all in due time.
I digress - she is still wanting to do it, so it is her call until there is actual abuse. Good Lord, I cannot wait until all this is not under my control anymore. I raised my kiddos independent, so the older ones only come to me when it is really bad or after they have done something about it. They are very adult and it is a much easier relationship.
So, my strange feeling is a butterfly stomach, but not really - nervous, some would say anxious, but I am not anxious. I usually get this when a change is coming. Could be good or bad. I bet if I had a pet, they would be acting crazy too.
I did find out today that we more than likely will not be able to be in the loft by September, which I was really hoping for the starting back of homeschool.
Lots of waiting around right now, so I am being tested on my patience. I want to start sewing so badly it is hurting right now. All in due time though - all in due time.
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