R.I.P. Minx
May 30, 1998 - October 1, 2010
Take good care of him, Lena. He's yours now.
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I have re-formatted the blog so that the latest entries are first; that way you don't have to scroll down as much.
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| NOTE: If you came here from www.lenazavaroni.co.uk, I am going to group all the Lena-related posts together. |
click here to skip down to main blog -
Posts where I mentioned Lena (some have been enhanced for clarity, edited for content, or embellished with humor):
JULY 9, 2013
Sorry I've been away for so long. I discovered that the Dandy Warhols video next to Lena's "Gt. Yarmouth '76" had been removed from (or restricted by) YouTube. I have since replaced it and you should be able to watch Lena's video with the song again (click on both play buttons).
NOVEMBER 4, 2012
More flowers and a note for Lena at the findagrave site.
OCTOBER 1, 2012
Made the first of my two annual visits to her page at findagrave.com; I hope to do this EVERY October 1 and November 4 until I pass on.
SEPTEMBER 1, 2012
LENA/WOGAN YOUTUBE LINK SHOULD BE WORKING NOW
NOVEMBER 6, 2011 -- UWS RADIO SHOW AIRS TRIBUTE TO LENA
UWS Radio in Paisley aired a tribute to Lena. I got to the computer about 20 minutes in and caught the last few seconds of Listening To You. Then they had some technical problems and I almost gave up on the show. But then....I heard the voice of Debs Baker! 48 minutes in, they played Lena's version of Hey, Hey, What Do You Say so I'm glad I stayed on. They also played Ain't She Sweet, Personality, and Angus read a Facebook post on the air that was posted by Karen Orsborn.
67 minutes into the program, after a brief airing of Sky News, they aired part of an interview with Victor. Then we had the pleasure of listening to Lena's incredible tear-inducing version of Neil Sedaka's Going Nowhere, which I sometimes find difficult to listen to without crying. I then posted a link to the station in the Greenock webcam chatroom. After an announcement from Vincent Pici about the Lena Zavaroni Tribute Fund, Lena sang Smile, the brilliant Charlie Chaplin tune. Rob Randall spoke about how much he and his wife Angela like Lena, and have a Lena night every month. Lena sang Thank You For The Music from her '79 TV series. Vincent introduced Some Of These Days (one of his favorites from the show "Morecambe and Wise"), and This Is It from "For Her Majesty" in 1985 when Lena was at the peak of her beauty.
Angus thanked people after a brief break, and Vincent introduced Lena's version of Barry Manilow's Even Now from her 1980 TV program. He referred to it as a "Power Ballad". Angus read an email from Tina McCracken, and then played "Little" Lena's rendition of the 1921 hit Ma, He's Making Eyes At Me, which is likely her signature tune and will perhaps now be forever associated with this wonderful singer.
"Keeping Lena Zavaroni's memory alive!" then she sang The End Of The World, and a pretty nifty cover of Louis Armstrong's What A Wonderful World, which UWS shamelessly cut off with The Seekers. Sure, they've gotta do things on a schedule, but they COULD HAVE made an allowance for Lena! (Although to their credit, the song WAS I Know I'll Never Find Another You.)
NOVEMBER 4, 2011
Lena would have been 48 today. I made my yearly post to her memorial page at findagrave and posted in the fb group.
OCTOBER 1, 2011
Left a virtual tulip at findagrave this year. She'll hear from me again November 4. Lena, you are not forgotten.
SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
Was listening to A Prairie Home Companion on KJZZ last night when I came upon a pleasant surprise: Megan Fischer, age 13, was a guest and sang "Under The Bamboo Tree". She sounded SO MUCH LIKE "LITTLE" LENA that I had to post a link to it!
| prairiehome.publicradio.org/ |
JULY 16, 2011
JUNE 18, 2011
Just got done listening to the Merv Griffin interview with Lena. I heard her sing Take Me Home, Country Roads. First time since 1974 that I'd heard her sing that. Also heard a couple of tunes from her cousin Margaret. I should buy that album.
MAY 30, 2011
Was a good morning this Memorial Day. Made lots of new friends on the Lena Tribute page; also got friend request accepted by Brent Paulson, whom I haven't talked to since 1987. Things are definitely looking up if the web is any indication. Heard part of interview with Keith Richards on KJZZ.
MAY 23, 2011
I got the night off because it was so slow. Gave Markus his two pictures; went to Fedex Office and finally scanned and uploaded the photo of Katy and I as well as the pic of Lena from the Los Angeles Free Press 10th Anniversary Issue way back when.
I have a story behind THAT one:
I bought that issue in 1974 because of the big number 520 on the cover. There were quotes from various people they had interviewed over their first ten years; among them was a brief quote from Lena, whom I'd first seen a few months earlier on Wonderama singing Take Me Home, Country Roads. There was also a pull-out section with some sleazy ads in it; that's when I thought I'd bought a paper I wasn't supposed to have (I was only 14 at the time), and when I heard my dad coming towards the back room I went to the garage and threw the paper up on the loft. (Our home in California had the garage and adjacent back room separated from the house by a back yard). Dad knew something was up when he saw me taking frequent glances of the loft but he didn't find out about the paper. I never saw it again but I was recently able to buy a copy of it off eBay which didn't have the pullout section but had what I really wanted: the photo of Lena with the quote.
I first heard of the singer's passing while searching for Danny Hutton's song Roses and Rainbows on YouTube, almost exactly two months after my mother died. In the three years since then, I have visited Debs Baker's site and other Lena sites many times and even made a few friends in the Greenock webcam chat room as well as hearing Bute FM over the web. Since then, not a day has gone by that I haven't thought about Lena at least once. I paid scant attention to her career while she was alive and I will spend the rest of my days regretting not keeping up. I think it's safe to assume that Lena has posthumously changed my life. If only I could go back in time and change hers...
NOVEMBER 4, 2010 - (date is self-explanatory)
Not a bad day at work but not the best either. Lady at bank signed the wrong two places after I dropped the bags off. It was a blessing in disguise though because I had to use a third page anyway. Ended up not too far from where Alicia (Avatar) lives.
* * * Lena would have been 47 today. I posted a message on her memorial site at findagrave.com.
OCTOBER 1, 2010 - EXACTLY 11 YEARS LATER, AND NOW MY CAT DIES?
When I got home from Gamers Inn there were two or three piles of blood on the floor. Minx was very quiet for a cat who must have been in pain. Called Pet ER but can't afford much more than the exam fee. Couldn't wait till morning.
He drank a lot of water and I moved him to get a good picture of him and he hissed. That's the only sound he made. Pet ER said they would do a humane euthanasia for free. I felt it would be best.
He was very quiet and behaved on the way there; he didn't make a sound. They gave me the option of a last pawprint; it was free so I said yes.
At about 2:20 AM, Minx left his earthly home. He is not suffering anymore. they gave me a nice box with him in it and he will have a dignified burial. I now have two reasons to mourn October 1 - losing my cat, and Lena's passing.
R.I.P. Minx
May 30, 1998 - October 1, 2010
Take good care of him, Lena. He's yours now.
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SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 - MET ANOTHER COOL SCOT, AND A COINCIDENCE
On one of my last runs, I couldn't get through the delivery door. A nice Scottish lady told me if I didn't have the code for the door I could go on the side main entrance. As a coincidence, the girl who signed for the document was named Lena! Guess who it made me think of :)
APRIL 24, 2010 - TROUBLEMAKER IN CHAT ROOM
| The Greenock chat is usually cool but once in a while we get a misfit. I went to a different room and changed my name to timbuk4 but when I went back to Greenock room the connection was closed for chat. Later I logged off and went to terminal #40, which turned out to have better sound anyway. I got in the room this time. enya came in but left almost immediately. Then a troublemaker who was making fun of Lena with a knockoff screen name "lenamacaroni" said "getlost perv" and left like a chicken. Weird, man! |
Use of the Camstreams Chat facility and website is subject to your agreement to our Code of Conduct/Terms of Use. User guest28 entered the room. User guest28 changed their name to timbuk4. User guest29 entered the room. User guest29 changed their name to enya. timbuk4: hi((((enya))) User enya left the room. timbuk4: oh no i ran her off User guest30 entered the room. timbuk4: i hope i didnt run her off timbuk4: lol timbuk4: its odd she would leave like that though guest30: idiot User guest30 left the room. User guest31 entered the room. timbuk4: hello g31 User guest31 changed their name to lenamacaroni. timbuk4: oh no lenamacaroni: getlost perv User lenamacaroni left the room. timbuk4: this is odd timbuk4: ive been ditched and pranked. someone must have misused my name |
NOVEMBER 4, 2009 - SELF-EXPLANATORY
Glad I worked tonight. Got $36.10 in tips. One thing that really hurt was getting stiffed by a neighbor.
* * * Well, I couldn't afford the trip to England of course, so I just wished Lena a happy (what would have been her) 46th birthday.
OCTOBER 1, 2009 - SELF-EXPLANATORY
Went to findagrave.com and left a message on Lena's site. She passed away ten years ago today. Because I didn't find out until last year, I am still kicking myself for not keeping up on her career.
AUGUST 13, 2009 - SHE LIVES ON, VIA YOUTUBE
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Went to Gamers and watched some YouTube stuff. Videos and more about Lena. (Man I wish I'd been there for her!) Check the Wogan interview, it's my favorite.
NOTE: Early in 2011 I posted a comment on this video under my Youtube name, BaronVonShrapnel. This video is also on my Favorites. |
MAY 3, 2009 - HMMM. LOOKS CLOSE, BUT TOO TALL
Couldn't get much sleep this morning. Went to NPBC after the service and met Sandra, Dale, Shelley and Richard. Caught some z's at the Quizno's at 7th and Indian School. We went to the funeral of Sandra's Uncle Ray (1926-2009). Palmcroft service was good too, we also talked to Lynn Forman (she's what Lena Zavaroni would probably look like today -- check one of the tribute sites with the Hornsea pics (where she looks like she's riding in the back of a horseless carriage with the Queen Mum) or the Basil Brush pics if you can find them.) Got sleep when I got home but awoke around 1 or so.
(Y'know, if Lynn wasn't about 6 feet tall she could probably play Lena in a film)
FEBRUARY 25, 2014
This PM sghift was way better than last night's 24. Highlight of the night was when I picked up two black guys at CVS at Mill and University and took them to Scottsdale. We pulled into a Whataburger drive thru and I paused the meter for them. It was worth it because they bought me a meal! They also tipped very well when I dropped them off.
SEPTEMBER 17, 2013
Richard drove me to the V.A. and I got checked out. tHey are going to call me at a later date. Did laundry tonight.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2013
Second day at Discount could have been better. I had problems with the first cab I checked out; the remote lock/unlock wouldn't work and the receipt printer stopped printing. Plus, I had to atted mandatory defensive driving at the Doubletree in Tempe from 10 to 11:30 so I lost 90 minutes of fares. I'm surprised I made any money today.
SEPTEMBER 14, 2013
First day at the new job at discount cab. It was a DOOZY -- made good bucks! Picked up some interesting people too. I also got to return the car topper and some other stuff to Papa John's. they seemed glad to see me.Think I'll stick with the cabbie job for a while.
SEPTEMBER 13, 2013
George was my trainer today and I rode with him as he did some runs. We did pretty good and he let me drive in the afternoon. I hope I can get this stuff down.
SEPTEMBER 12, 2013
Attended class at Discount cab. I wasable to stay awake in part to 5-hour energy. Class was a breeze. Tomorrow I go out in a cab with another driver.
AUGUST 22, 2013
Well I got to the pizza place. Gins said there are no openings for in-house people. I am now officially UNEMPLOYED.
AUGUST 19, 2013
On the way to Markus's house the transmission gave out. The car is DEAD. This could affect my remaining job at Papa John's.
AUGUST 8, 2013
The followup appointment went well. Toenail is growing back and they doc gave me some ointment to put on it. I do not have to soak the toe anymore.
AUGUST 2, 2013
Went down and picked up my final paycheck from TDEx. I heard on the radio that KSLX was going to be at Desert Ridge from 5 to 6 so I cashed the check at the BofA up there. I went to the KSLX booth and played Plinko and the chip landed on DVD so I won a Blu-ray copy of "This Is 40" and they gave me 2 stickers and magnets. I also got my picture taken and get them to take a pic with my camera as well.
Went to Taco Bell at 83rd near the dance but only saw one guy from there. Went to FedEx Office near 83rd and Bell and got online for a bit. Was good; I posted on Dierks Bentley's site about the duet with Lee Kernaghan.
Eva and co. missed me; they apparently checked Del Taco on Peoria. After the dance NO ONE FROM THERE went to Taco Bell.
AUGUST 1, 2013
Went to the V.A. and had the ingrown toenail pulled. will follow up on the 8th. Hernia surgery not yet scheduled.
JULY 24, 2013
Last run was at 1910 Stapley. I found a cheap gas station and tehn went to the insurance place to get proof that I'm insured til the 29th. Guess what? They found out that commercial policies do not have grace periods. Therefore I was driving illegally today. I got a non-comm policy and called up the courier service letting them know I was quitting.
JULY 9, 2013 Slow day at the courier job but still did okay. Got off Papa John's early because it was slow.
MAY 1, 2013
He seems to have pulled back a bit after letting out dirty little secrets on FB. Still, I have more support than he does. However, when I checked my voicemail after church there were two messages from Paula, the one in charge of the dance. He must have called her and trash talked me. I will talk to her tomorrow; if I get banned from the dance he is UNFRIENDED.
APRIL 30, 2013
Great -- now David is ripping into me on that Facebook post. He sure doesn't like me going to that dance. not sure how long this skirmish will last.
APRIL 29, 2013
My ATM card started getting rejected at places early in the morning. When I went back to Cobblestone and got online I learned that DirecTV had drained my bank account! I called 'em but they said it was in the terms of service that they can automatically at will, draw out any owed money if it's owed too long. No more DirecTV for me!
APRIL 28, 2013
This was NOT a good day. Tori dumped me this afternoon. She decided that the age difference WAS a problem. I sulked over to the Cobblestone on Elliot Rd. near the 10 and posted the news on Facebook.
APRIL 25, 2013
Steve took the car to emissions and it PASSED! I am on the road again!
APRIL 24, 2013
Steve called me at 5:29 pm while I was here in the library. He cut into the wiring harness to fuel sensor, spliced in another sensor and set it at 65%. All codes are gone. He replaced throttle position sensor and harness for it, pulled intake off, cleaned EGR passage, ran and passed catalytic test. He needs 2 more ready monitors (evap emission and egr). o2 ran, secondary air injection pump ran, catalytic ran but needs an o2 heater to run thru emissions. I might not need the waiver! Stay tuned tomorrow!
APRIL 23, 2013
Didn't hear from Steve today. Not much done; had a brief online time at the library. got too much sleep today.
APRIL 22, 2013
Steve picked up the car tonight. I might have bad motor mounts.
APRIL 19, 2013
I actually got to work at the courier service today! Did 7 deliveries but they were good runs for the most part. Said goodbye to a few people including the lovely Brooke. Had two deliveries on Ray Rd.; first one I saw a girl who looked like Sharon Stone. Last delivery was at 3215 W. Ray. I returned the un-needed round thing to Pick-n-Pull and then went for my 2nd attempt at the waiver. they didn't grant it because of the P0122 Throttle Position Sensor code. Not sure what I'm gonna do now.
APRIL 18, 2013
Spent a few hours at Pick-n-Pull with Richard. We got the secondary air injection pump off the 2000 Lumina and I got video of it. I bought a round thing that fell off the car; not sure if I need it. Steve put it on tonight and said I should drive around before getting the waiver. Yay - I get to work tomorrow!
APRIL 17, 2013
Went to Pick-N-Pull; located the pump I need and started unbolting it.
APRIL 16, 2013
Got the third and final 3-day permit to drive the car. If I fail again it could be curtains.
APRIL 12, 2013
I did NOT get the waiver today -- one reason was that the secondary air injection pump is missing and that is considered tampering. I have to get another pump soon.
Decided not to rent a car or go to the dance tonight.
APRIL 11, 2013
Second day in a row I worked. Not sure if I can do it tomorrow, better off getting the waiver.
APRIL 10, 2013
Decided to work today at the courier job, needed to drive the car around anyway. I WILL be getting a check next week!
APRIL 8, 2013
Called in at 7:30 after Scott had sent me two runs. Told him I wasn't coming in today. He took it better than I thought he would.
APRIL 7, 2013
Walked to church for both services, did some cleaning at home.
APRIL 6, 2013
Stephanie asked if I wanted the night off. I jumped at the chance because I had forgotten my hat at Tori's. Finally gave Bryanna the "Manager On Duty" picture. also, I got to see Tori again. Last chance to drive the car much, 30-day tag runs out today.
APRIL 5, 2013
Got auto insurance paid this morning. Last delivery was in Queen Creek. I phoned in 3 orders for wings so they'd be ready when I got there, then it was off to Tori's. Eva gave me two slices of pizza and the wings went over very well. had a good visit.
APRIL 4, 2013
Got off a little early so Steve could try to make the EGR valve compliant with the smog test. apparently I need to to get the valve replaced. If I don't do something soon it might be curtains for the driving jobs, which wouldn't be all bad.
MARCH 31, 2013
FINALLY got my brake pads replaced! This time I did most of the work myself with Markus's dad coaching.
MARCH 29, 2013
Got to see Tori tonight. Went to Papa John's and ordered an XL pizza, they reluctantly let me go back there and make it myself. I just threw on stuff at random for the most part but the ADH home loved it. Mgr didn't charge me for it!
After a brief "9/23/81" like moment, Tori and I officially got together.
MARCH 26, 2013
I talked to the special needs place today. They emailed me a form for a background check which I couldn't get printed yet. Changed my Facebook status to In A Relationship.
Took the car over to Steve's after work. He cleared out the codes and fixed the cranking bulb. Only one more problem to fix and the car will be compliant.
MARCH 25, 2013
Eva had said yesterday that if I get CPR and first aid qualified as well as article 9, then I can take Tori places. Today I called the number she gave me and left a message.
MARCH 24, 2013
Went over to North Phoenix Baptist today to facilitate giving Sandra a ride back to the ADH home. all the nearby good seats were taken so I stood in the aisle. I paced around a little and soon this guy said "Come with me" and took me by the arm into the hallway. He flashed a badge and asked for I.D. Apparently I had made some people uncomfortable by being in the aisle. This has never been a problem before! Well, this made ME uneasy. He said I was welcome to attend the service and they would escort me to a seat. I just said, "Have a nice day sir" and walked out the door. I've never been treated like this at church before! Later, after the service, I saw Sandra and Richard. Sandra didn't want to cancel her Dial-A-Ride so I went to the ADH home alone, but not before stopping by Fry's and picking up a bouquet of pink carnations for Tori.
We had pizza and I was there for about four hours. We sat together and saw most of "Unfaithfullly Yours" and "Darkman" as well as some of that Joan of Arc movie with Milla Jovovich.
You know, while I held Tori in my arms, all that garbage that happened this morning seemed to fade away.
MARCH 23, 2013
I took the left tire off the Lumina and the indicator was about 1/4" from the rotor. Later I took the right tire off and measured and the indicator there was about 3/16" from the rotor. Seemed like the brakes were okay. I also cleaned out the car and spent $7 on an automatic wash that didn't make too much difference. Nothing like a good hand wash. I used somer of that Color Back stuff that Rick recommended and finally got those brown scrape lines off the driver's side passenger door. Still some on the edge though but barely noticeable.
MARCH 22, 2013
This dance was one for the books. Sandra was there with some of her roommates from the ADH home. I got to talking with one of them, Tori, and one thing led to another. As I was walking her back to the car after the dance she kissed me. Eva (the one in charge of the ADH home) took two pics of us. I am going over there this Sunday.
Brake pads have started occasionally grinding.
MARCH 19, 2013
Gina gave me the option of taking the night off. Of course I accepted, because my cousin and his brother-in-law are in town. I met up with them at the hotel and they took me to Hooters in Tempe.
MARCH 17, 2013
Great News! My cousin and a cousin-in-law are coming from New York to play golf and visit me! YAYYYYYYY
MARCH 16, 2013
Went down and bought a digital antenna today. Before I left the parking lot I used cell video to make a recording of a station broadcasting illegally on 101.9 and hope to put it on YouTube soon.
MARCH 15, 2013
Didn't go to the dance tonight either because I had to work.
MARCH 9, 2013 Officially launched the website fwowq.org to help fight breast cancer. I hope to launch an eating disorder website on November 4.
FEBRUARY 15, 2013
Didn't go to the dance tonight because Markus is out of town.
FEBRUARY 14, 2013
Another Valentines Day, and no one to give flowers to.
FEBRUARY 12, 2013
Christopher Dorner was all over the news; practically upstaged Obama. I was able to pull in KNX out of L.A. and heard their text number. I texted NEWS to 41070 on the weay back to the car after delivering a pizza to 4450 E. Southern apt. I am now getting news alerts from 2 stations.
JANUARY 25, 2013
Got a call from the doc about 7:22 this morning. They did NOT find any prostate cancer!!!!! :D
JANUARY 23, 2013
Biopsy went well today. I did everything I was supposed to beforehand; no complications. Michael (Markus's brother) brought me to the VA then home.
DECEMBER 31, 2012
was a HECTIC night at work. Made a lot of tips though; felt bad because I was supposed to meet Darla and Stacey at a park. Finally checked her phone message after 11 and I was supposed to meet them in Mesa! Spent the rest of the year driving over there.
DECEMBER 27, 2012
Finaly caught up with 201 Rick in north Gilbert and gave him the Les Feldick tape and Reconstructions by AD, as well as an extra McRib. he gave me a sandwich and 4 DVDs. We had a good chat.
DECEMBER 26, 2012
Back at work. Ate too much sweets over at Markus's; had a sugar headache or something and didn't feel like working but I worked anyway. Got better as the day progressed. Got to church and only the pastor's van was there so we had a brief two-person prayer meeting in the parking lot.
DECEMBER 25, 2012
Went over to Markus's for Christmas. They had turkey with all the trimmings. This family is so good. I caught a lot of The Dark Knight Rises, and called some of my relatives back east. Later they put on the movie Ted. Don't waste your money.
DECEMBER 18, 2012
Biopsy hurt a little too much (even with anesthetic) so they rescheduled me AGAIN for JANUARY 23 and are going to put me under.
DECEMBER 17, 2012
ARRGH! Biopsy delayed til tomorrow! I was supposed to take an antibiotic prior. (Live and Learn!) Also got gas for 2.93.
DECEMBER 16, 2012
Went to tri-City again. Christmas message was good but I wish I'd brought a pen. There's a lot more to Luke 2 then I thought.
Got a second McRib for $1 when I bought the combo. Ate half of it before work, gonna eat the rest later because I am fasting.
DECEMBER 15, 2012
Markus's birthday party was today. We went to Golden Corral, then bowling. My cousin called me but couldn't compete with bowling pins. I went outside for a bit and talked to her. Later I went back to Markus's for a bit. Glad I switched work days with Loretta.
DECEMBER 14, 2012
Finished off a record week at work. Went to Gold Canyon twice. Worked tonight but got to race over to Alta Loma and see Katy before she left the dance. Last one til Jan. 11.
OCTOBER 11, 2012
R.I.P. 1994 Toyota Pickup truck. You gave me over 17 years of great service.
OCTOBER 2, 2012
Did a bit better at the courier job even with about a one-hour sitting time.
OCTOBER 1, 2012
Again went to the V.A. a bit after 7 to get some blood drawn. While I was waiting I read a funny article in Salt Water Sportsman about two guys who used an outdated tide schedule before going fishing. Only one vial was drawn; I was out of there quickly. I guess early in the morning is a good time to go.
SEPTEMBER 28, 2012
Got home a bit later than usual because my last run was up near Anthem. Tonight was a good Welcome Back Dance. I'll call it "Cake Night" because LOTS OF PEOPLE won cakes! Markus won another one, Valerie won, Bill won (to Valerie's chagrin), Paul won some cupcakes and gave them to me, and Katy won a 99¢ piece of cake. Kelsea was there for the first time in ages but she didn't win a cake (Dale and Shelley brought her; I wonder if this has anything to do with my texting her on Tuesday.) Derek "sang" to Mustang Sally this time instead of the usual Marvin Gaye.
SEPTEMBER 25, 2012
Went to In-N-Out for the first time an a couple of weeks or so. On a lark, I texted Kelsea and she actually chatted with me for a bit!
SEPTEMBER 23, 2012
Was an okay Liberation Day. Nothing noteworthy but I did call Allyson and David. After all, they likely wouldn't have met if not for Lib Day.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2012
Went to the V.A. appointment. Even though it was at 10:40 I wasn't called til about 11:40. Urologist just talked to me and set up another appointment.
Found gas for 3.63 today! Tank was roughly 27.8 MPG; the one from last night had been a bit over 25 but that was probably due to the Papa John's runs.
Did two loads of laundry; was going to use the double loader but it seemed to only hold just over a load, so I used two washers.
Today marks the 31st anniversary of the day I met Jennifer Pauling.
SEPTEMBER 17, 2012
Got about 29.6 mpg on the last tank. Incredible! Despite a one hour run and a Fountain Hills run, I didn't make a whole lot today.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2012
After church today I went to the pizza place and picked up the car topper that had been assigned to me. The light works so there will be no more problems along that line.
Stacy called and I was able to talk to her caregiver. She wants to keep Stacy close by so I can't take her to the Peoria Dance anymore. There's stuff going on in Gilbert though.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2012
I made it to the Men's prayer breakfast this time. Was good as usual. At work tonight neither car topper lit up and I was talked to. (We were so busy I just overlooked talking to the mgr.)
SEPTEMBER 13, 2012
Got up early and made it to the V.A. about 7:08 or so. I was in and out of there quickly; they only drew one vial of blood. I made it to my first runs early in fact, and had to wait for Sun American to open. After work I stopped by Tire Dawgs and got another tire.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2012
Not too busy today; people were probably observing the day. John Winkleman stopped by for a visit and the three of us watched some of Smokey And The Bandit.
SEPTEMBER 9, 2012
Church was good but I missed work at Papa John's because I couldn't get the truck started. Finally got a jump from Richard and was able to do laundry.
SEPTEMBER 8, 2012
Spent a lot of time at Markus's. his dad put a new distributor cap and spark plugs in the truck and we changed the oil.
SEPTEMBER 7, 2012
Boy, what a day! I got rained on most of the morning in Queen Creek/San Tan Valley area. Truck started getting hot and I made it to 225 Germann, then asked Scott if I could wait a bit before going back to Sunland. He said ok, but when the time came for me to go I couldn't get the truck started. Push starts didn't work so I had to get a jump from Rick. Truck made it all the way to Lindsay and Juniper, A few minutes later I got a push start from a City of Gilbert truck and made it all the way to Southern. Jump starts failed and after resting for a couple hours I called Markus and told him and his dad I wouldn't be going to the dance. Markus's dad came by and we found out that the fan belt had come off and was thrashed. We got a new one on and I was eventually able to go home.
AUGUST 31, 2012
Things returning to normal. Got normal paycheck, worked semi-normal day but had to get a jump start. Stayed home tonight because Katy wasn't going to the dance. Spent most of that time asleep.
AUGUST 26, 2012
Steve at church gave me a catalytic converter for the truck. Might fit with an adapter. God is good!
AUGUST 24, 2012
Paycheck was less than $85. Went to the dance for the first time in two weeks. Katy was there. I told her and Brian about the hospital stay. Brian said eh was sorry about what happened to me. Katy seemed genuinely concerned; I am seeing her in a whole new light. After the dance I gave her one of my mother's old eyeglass cases.
AUGUST 17, 2012
April called me on the radio and asked if I could work Monday. Told her I'd work today. Did a few runs; went to Tire Dawgs after and got a needed spare. Called Markus's mom and she talked me out of going to the dance. I kinda wanted her to though.
AUGUST 16, 2012
Didn't work today; took the day off.
AUGUST 15, 2012
Last day at hospital. Richard came by in afternoon to take me back to the truck and he was gracious enough to allow me to finish my lunch. Truck was still there; nothing out of the ordinary.
AUGUST 14, 2012
Spent second day at hospital. they are treating me well; the staff here is excellent.
AUGUST 13, 2012
Was making a delivery on 65th Drive to someone's house when I passed out. She called the paramedics and they took me to Arrowhead Hospital. Good food!
AUGUST 12, 2012
Still no appetite, been nibbling a little though. Didn't go to church anywhere; stayed home. Had a bit more appetite tonight though.
AUGUST 11, 2012
I seem to have no appetite. Not hungry. Been drinking some fluids though.
AUGUST 10, 2012
Markus and I got to the dance late, just before snack time. I had him tape a FLUSH THE HATE sign to my back in case the mean girl was there. She wasn't, but Katy was and I had some people sign a birthday card I got for her. Shortly after I gave it to her I started feeling dizzy and had to go outside a lot. Just before the end of the dance I got sick in the bathroom. I was okay taking Markus home but I got sick at his house.
AUGUST 8, 2012
I was able to get one of those 30-day general use permits for the truck. At least I can work until I get the converter.
AUGUST 7, 2012
"Guaranteed To Pass" didn't work! I failed emissions even worse this time! Mechanic recommended I get a catalytic converter.
AUGUST 6, 2012
The truck failed emissions. Mechanic recommended I get some stuff called "Guaranteed To Pass" and put it in the tank. Well I got some and found out I would have to fill up the tank and then run it down to near empty I guess, so I took a trip to Globe.
AUGUST 3, 2012
Car was acting up again, probably shouldn't have gone to the dance. There was a new girl there and I struck up a conversation. I brought up the subject of Markus's mom giving me snacks and she said she was a diabetic. I mentioned that I couldn't share the chocolate and asked if she could have gummi bears. she said only if they're sugar free. I checked and they weren't and I let her know that I couldn't give her some. A while later, for some reason, the girl she was with complained to the staff about me. I guess she was upset that I even offered the snacks. The staff lady told me not to give out any more. Later on the new girl was coming toward where I was and the mean girl who complained took her away and discouraged her from talking to me. What nerve -- inmy opinion, we don't need people like that at the dance.
MAY 16, 2012
Jamie and I talked on the phone tonight and we're now just friends.
MAY 11, 2012
Took Jamie, Markus and Stacy to the dance tonight. ROGER WAS THERE! However, nothing bad happened.
MAY 3, 2012
This is one for the books: I went to the drama performance at GCC tonight and after it was over I saw Jamie. We're back together!
APRIL 6, 2012
Markus and I got to the dance a little late. No Katy, but Ashley was there. Karlea didn't show up which is too bad -- she coulda seen me help Derek overcome a fear
MARCH 22, 2012
Two significant things happened today: (1) Karlea's dad, bro and grandpa came to pick up the truck! It's outta here after over 17 years, and the tires held air! (2) I got the 2009 property tax paid off! Glory to God for both!!!
JANUARY 1, 2012
Gamers' Inn is removing their LAN effective 1/2/12. I am losing prime net access!
DECEMBER 1, 2011
Weird day. Had car problems; steering was making odd noise. Though I would have to lay up the car for a while. Found gas for 3.07 again. A run to Shea blvd. was rejected and I had to take it to Baseline Rd. later. On the way home I stopped by the mechanic. Ricky wasn't there but I told the guy on duty about the noise and he listened to it. He said I needed power steering fluid. I went right to Auto Zone and got some. I put it in right in the parking lot, then drove to Carl's Jr. and Gamers Inn. When I returned to the car the noise was practically gone.
NOVEMBER 25, 2011
Scott had no runs for me today. Unlike last year, when I got to do the bank run on Black Friday. We don't have that run anymore.
NOVEMBER 24, 2011
Ate Thanksgiving dinner at Markus's and took a few pics. At work, the only people from my store there were Daniel, Laurabelle and Don. All the others were form different stores. I felt like I was at another store. Hear a lot fo "Alice's Restaurant" on KSLX. I stayed at the store the whole four hours but only did two deliveries.
NOVEMBER 23, 2011
At 19th and Mountain View a motorcycle ran over or dropped something in the road. Then I heard a zoom and a thump. I looked to my left and the bike had hit a tree or something and the person was lying on the ground not moving. I called 911 and pulled around. By the time I got there about 6 people or so were near the person, whom it turns out was female. She was conscious and able to move a bit but it hurt. Later at church, Horst was on the phone with someone telling him about a plane that had crashed into the Superstition Mountains. This day really makes you think about how things can change in an instant.
NOVEMBER 18, 2011
Worked at Papa John's for about 15 minutes and they let me go to the dance. Even though Katy and Ashley weren't there (again) I still had a pretty good time. Danced with Brittney and talked to her mom who looks a lot like Michelle Pfeiffer. I gave a fruit punch soda to Hannah, who was making one of her rare appearances. After the dance I saw her throw it away without opening it. Funny, she accepted it when I offered. Guess I'll write her off as just another flake. BTW, I just took a sip of the soda.
NOVEMBER 17, 2011
Got paid a day early! God laid it on my heart to pay the late car insurance. I went home and was going to look for the payment coupon when the doorbell rang. It was the mailman with a certified letter from Progressive, and I used that payment coupon when I went down and paid the overdue bill.
NOVEMBER 11, 2011
I got to go to the dance because they offered to let me off work if I took 72 2-liter bottles of soda to the store at Signal Butte/Apache. An older couple there helped me bring it in. Katy and Ashley weren't at the dance. I got the Alicia Keys CD back and they actually played Empire State of Mind at the dance! I let Sammie listen to it at the store while I went to QT. I pulled up to pump #11 and at 11:10 told the guy I wanted to put $11.11 worth of gas in. He knew what I wanted to do and even times the receipt to print at 11:11:11 (got the seconds right!) I'll post an image when I get around to scanning it.
NOVEMBER 4, 2011
I bought the Alicia Keys CD with Empire State of Mind on it and loaned it to the Peoria Community Center so they could download the song. Katy wasn't at the dance.
OCTOBER 13, 2011
Another b-day. Enjoying DirecTV now.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
Last drop as near Rural/Elliot. Got gas at Valero for 3.25 but payphone was busted. Couldn't call Markus, which was just as well because on the way home form Adams Agency I got a flat. Couldn't go to the dance.
SEPTEMBER 28, 2011
Went to V.A. appointment. Looks like I have a new doctor. they gave me a flu shot and took 3 blood samples. I asked for a squeeze ball for when they draw blood. It was a squeeze pear, and I appreciated it. didn't go to church tonight because I conked out.
SEPTEMBER 24, 2011
Went to Fry's Electronics and got a new ethernet card and 100 feet of coax. Installed the card after work and hooked up the modem in the den. Modem signal was good but I couldn't get a connection.
SEPTEMBER 23, 2011
28th anniversary of Liberation Day. I did 23 runs, then worked at Papa John's. Sammie let me off around 7:30 and I was able to go to the dance. Got there just after Katy won 12 small cupcakes so she was in a good mood.