The week mercifully wound down, but not without a few anxious moments. I had gone in very early to the office to catch up with my work. I did not realize it, but this week I had not spent more than half of any day in the office. I had been at my desk almost two hours by the time someone else came in. It was very concentrated productive time, probably the favorite part of my day. Git 'er done!

In keeping with form, my stay in the office was brief. We were over run with equipment problems on what turned out to be a very pressure packed day. About eleven the owner and I went to the shop to repair a trailer that was needed in the can move. Our guys were really sucking air as they were having to live load instead of dropping and hooking (they drop an empty trailer and hook up to a pre-loaded trailer). Shortly after noon I left the shop with the repaired trailer to put it back in the rotation. On my way into town I got a call instructing me to drop the repaired trailer at the customer's loading dock and to check out another trailer that the shipper refused to load. When I arrived I dropped the repaired trailer and began a quick assessment of the problem with the second trailer. Apparently a forklift had fallen through the floor. It amazes me that something like this can happen and yet no one did it. (When I say a forklift fell through the floor I mean one of its wheels broke through, it would be impossible for a forklift to completely fall through because of the sub-structure). Immediately I was aware that the trailer would have to go to the fleet shop twenty miles away, the gaping hole was about ten by eighteen inches. I quickly hooked up to the trailer and began the brief trip, when I approached Hawley I exited to get fuel for the truck in case it had to go out during the night. $464.00 later I was hurrying toward the shop once again. Once I had backed the damaged trailer to the shop door I began to gather tools and flooring supplies and by the time the owner arrived we were ready to do battle. We were determining the layout and the proper portion to be replaced when the owner's wife drove up in quite a tizzy. A call had come in adding an ASAP load that was #1 RUSH priority and a second "add on" load was added for 2am.(It would appear I was psychic in fueling the truck). Sad thing was the rush load had to go on the trailer needing repairs. Luckily we had everything we needed and within an hour the owner was on his way to make the pick-up. I was quite thankful that the owner's wife intervened. The owner had made a comment that I could take one load and he could take one load. I had told the owner's wife that Krl and I had a date night planned and she nipped the possibility of me taking a load (YES!). I ended up taking a half hour of "comp" time and came back to town early and ran some errands (I hadn't cashed a paycheck in a couple of weeks).

Date night. Good company, Gorgeous WOMAN. Good food, convenient location, atrocious acoustics! Krl selected Chili's as our destination. Other than Luby's and Wok Express, Chili's is the most convenient restaurant to our home (not counting "fast" food). I would like to go on the record. I am not a Chilean. I have never really been a fan of Chili's except for a very few selected items. Give me an "Awesome Blossom" and I could probably sing the national anthem of Chile. After last night I have new found respect and new found taste buds for Chili's menu. Krl ordered the "citrus fire chicken and shrimp with steamed veggies on rice pilaf" and I ordered their "honey barbecued sirloin with sauteed mushrooms, peppers and onions and fries". While Krl was disappointed that they advertised zucchini as on of the steamed vegetables but were out, the food fares were outstanding! The worst part of the entire outing was the horrible acoustical properties of the restaurant. With the totally wood interior,the noise just reverberated, factor in a rambunctious Friday evening crowd and it was loud. This evening was one of the few that I have yelled at Krl (so she could hear) and she just smiled!

We arrived home and found a strange situation to have occurred with the hound boys and girls. It seems two of the three long timers (the older hounds who are 11 and 12 years old) decided to reclaim their "Masters" from the clutches of the new "heathen" hound. Brandy, the new hound (or Maple Syrple, as I call her) is a young pup has been on the scene almost three months and she has had carte blanch. The older hounds just sat back and let her make a fool of herself with her youthful exuberance! When we arrived last evening from our date, Black Dog positioned herself at my chair and Shadow positioned himself at Krl's glider rocker. There was no way the intruder could penetrate their perimeter. When the buffer zone would allow it they would switch off and once Black even crammed her "mature dog " body into Brandy's "puppy size" hide-out. When we began to turn lights out the dogs hastily retreated to our bedroom, when we arrived "Black" had positioned herself perfectly in the middle of the bed (where Brandy normally gets). When I awoke during the night Black was sleeping a blissful sleep while Brandy was fitfully trying to find a new nitche. When I slipped from bed earlier this morning , Krl, Black, and Brandy had each staked claims to their own respective section of the bed. Isn't it grand to be fought over! (I think of Hogue from Driving Miss Daisy).

FATHER thank YOU for seeing me through the week. I am thankful for the good "evening out" with Krl. Thank YOU for the comfort and enjoyment that our pets give us. Help us to be fair and compassionate to their needs. I pray for healing. Spiritual, Physical, Mental. Please make me whole. Rest me well, rest me quickly. I continue to lift up Krl for YOUR healing, I also lift up Ollie, Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, Jennifer, Victoria, TJ, Anna, Jess, those recovering from the accident, Yaenga, and Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR care and healing for them all. I pray that YOU will surround and comfort those saddened by loss. I pray for those of us confronted with issues in our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. I ask YOUR blessings on the efforts of the Highland family, particularly for the Salvador effort as they get settled in. Direct our focus outward, help us to be responsive, not reactive. Let YOUR light shine through us.

I guess I reached my limit.

I have been running on brain fumes with frequent episodes of brain fade. My erratic sleep habits had gradually been bringing me down. With the recent demands of the past couple of days I crashed (I think my computer calls it a fatal error). I left the house Thursday before three in the morning and had made the trek to and from the metroplex by eleven o'clock, went in to the office to complete paperwork and shortly afternoon I was on my way home! When I arrived at the house I grabbed a quick bite of lunch and updated Krl on my day and then I got comfortable on one of the couches. Next thing I knew, Pat and Vanna were spinning that wheel! It was after six-thirty, I woke up long enough for Krl to tell me supper was ready and after a while we ate and went to bed. (I have to give "W" some of the credit for this, he could put anyone to sleep. By the way, the W stands for Wah! What a cry baby!). Once again I quickly drifted off and it was four in the morning before I got out of bed! Funny thing is I think I could do it again!

My day today will be consumed with catching up at the office. Two and a half days out and work will be backed up, add to that the fact that today is a payday and I will have plenty to do.

A couple of notes. O.K., I have to brag. A while back Rian had applied for a Texas PTA scholarship for his continuing education (towards his principal's certification). There are eighteen awarded annually, they aren't big ($500) but of course any relief would be appreciated. It took him a couple of hours to fill out the form and submit it. Last week Mr. Guerrero invited Rian to the monthly PTA luncheon in Lubbock this past Tuesday. Rian was recognized and received the scholarship! Way to go. Then he and Erica attended the LCU graduate school banquet, they were running short on time due to spring football drills at Monterey, meetings for the regional track meet officials and all sorts of other "spring" activities. When they arrived Erica told Rian she wished they had gotten there early enough to be able to sit with friends, then they were told they were seated at the head table.

Date night tonight. Krl is making the choices, I guess it is another Sadie Hawkins night. I am looking forward to it! Only problem is the gift cards are gradually being depleted. Oh well, in my opinion date night with my special sweetie is ........... priceless!

FATHER thank YOU for the restful sleep. I thank YOU for the safe travel on the road. I ask for YOUR presence in my day. I ask for YOUR healing for Krl, for Ollie, for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Ashlyn Kate, for Jennifer, for Victoria, for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for those still recovering from the accident, for Yaenga, and for Dr. Mackie. I pray for those saddened by loss. I pray for those of us struggling in our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. I ask for strength, courage and wisdom. Forgive us when we fall short of expectations. May my day bring glory and honor to YOU!

Very quickly. Yesterday and today got put in a blender!

Some people are just no good. That is the core of my scuttled schedule. We had one employee who dropped the ball yesterday making it necessary for me to make a quick run to the metroplex. When I returned he confronted me telling me I was the problem. Duh, if he is wealthy enough to absorb a three hundred dollar a minute penalty (the penalty if we let the production line stop for our product) what is he doing here? I don't think if he was supposed to be in Fort Worth by eight-thirty and he shows up at one he can make the trip on time (maybe he is a time traveler). Long story short, he got his drawers in a wad long after I had seen him and he chose to quit. This is probably best for all parties because we sure don't need him if we can't count on him.

Pray for my day!

FATHER it is all on YOU, big surprise huh! Thank YOU for the safe day yesterday, can we do it again? Take control. I pray for those near and dear, fix them please. I pray for those sad with grief, comfort them. I pray for us babes in YOU, nuture us. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. On the road again (I sure hope it is Highway to Heaven). Thank YOU FATHER!

Mum's the word!

Wow, long long Tuesday. I am hoping that today flows some better. I am going in early everyday, not taking a lunch hour and usually I am looking to make an exit by around two something. Of course if I end up going out of town all this goes out the window! I had stayed in the office yesterday until the girls finished their lunch rotation, then I went up the hill to the shop. We had some equipment that had been brought in Monday that needed some cosmetic repair. I loaded all the needed equipment into my pickup and went across the road to get the needed material for the repair. By the time help showed up everything was prepared and it took just a few minutes to complete. When we had all the tools put away we went back to the office to see what had transpired during the afternoon and I was getting ready to make my exit. Once we arrived we discovered that the ball had been dropped concerning a back haul for a truck off loading in Denver today and I got on the phone. I made a dozen phone calls trying to find a back haul but to no avail. There were a couple of possibilities but no guarantees. I made it home after six. I am going in early today to try to be the early bird that gets the worm.

It appears that we may have a problem. The owner's wife does dispatch but more and more she seems to be expecting me to take over certain areas. She doesn't want to relinquish this job (and I sure don't want it) on a regular basis but it seems if it is a hot seat issue she wants a stand in. Add to this the constant flow of baloney forms (or poop projects) that find their way to my desk and it appears that we are getting off task. I haven't said anything yet but I am preparing my speech.

I've got enough excess hours to take some time off (any hours over 8 I take as comp time). Krl tentatively quizzed me about taking her to Austin this Friday. I don't know. Hound housing may be a problem. We will see. I wouldn't mind taking some time off, I just don't know for sure what I would want to do.

News flash. Due to some problems I just got a phone call at five forty-five and I need to go to the metroplex. Gotta hurry! Pray for my day and for safe travel!

FATHER thank YOU, for the gorgeous spring days YOU have blessed us with. Thanks for giving me flexibility to get to work outside and enjoy them. I pray for gentle rains as my many friends and family prepare to plant their new crops. I continue to ask YOUR blessings and healing for Krl, Ollie, Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, Jennifer, Tori, TJ, Anna, Jess, those recovering from their injuries, Yaenga, and Dr. Mackie. I ask comfort for those hurting from loss. I pray for guidance for those of us who wander in our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Give me YOUR perfect peace.

Heh, Heh! For barbers and clergy today is their Monday!

My Monday really wasn't bad. Not much going on at work. A little data entry, filled out some forms for a TWC audit, faxed the paperwork to the accounting firm that oversees the TWC reports, sat some, bored out of my gourd! Finally had lunch and spent the afternoon in the fleet shop doing a little rural engineering.

The owner has decided to take out the middle man and direct market the gin trash burrs. Some of these will be whole burrs, some of them will be ground. We are studying the large tub grinder trying to determine some gear ratios. It appears that the most versatile solution is for us to add a multiple speed gearbox or transmission. This would allow us to "ballpark" where we think we need to be. Our current goal is to grind one-hundred tons per day! That is a lot of mulch for that flowerbed. The owner is really a pretty amazing guy. He is quite mechanical and is not scared to tackle anything! "Let's open that gear box", "What would happen if we swapped those two gears", all sorts of questions which are usually followed by practical application answers. None of that model building and computer simulation here! This man has a high school diploma but more importantly he has a gift. He may not have some of the spiffiest equipment, you know the old adage "poor men have poor ways", but in some round about way he seems to fabricate machinery that ultimately gets the job done. On occasion I get really frustrated and tell him let's just bite the bullet and buy what we need. He usually just smiles and says he will think about it. The following day I may arrive to find that he has spent the majority of the night on one of the lathes fabricating a piece that we need. "Time" is the cheapest asset this man possesses while "vision" is probably his most valuable. "Someone had to make it, if someone made it, I figure I can too!" No, that wasn't Forest Gump, that was my fearless leader!

Best part of work right now is that I am getting more time in that great big office with the good lighting, the sky blue ceiling and the remarkable view!

A couple of high notes! Kyle Patrick Henry and the Highland one act play advanced Saturday night. They are going to state! Congratulations! He is so excited and feels so good about himself! He cannot wait to get his "leather jacket" for drama! (Letter jacket).

Chris' new enterprise has begun! They signed all the paperwork Friday afternoon and now the operation is up and running! Memama and Pepa carried Chris to the airport Monday morning so he could get back to Little Rock to continue his education! Since they closed the deal on the new business he is now obligated to take "business administration". May be a tycoon in the making!

The best news of the day came from Ollie. She had been to the doctor and her kidney function was up. The kidney that was working at 19% last week was at 42% this week. Doctors say if it will stay above forty percent, they can work with that. What is really frustrating is that Merrit has been to three different doctors, all with the same prognosis, yet yesterday her doctor told her they were going to treat this like a severe kidney infection and that she might have kidney stones. Duh! Way too many mights for me. Let's see, kidney infection and kidney stones, I bet either, or a combination of both would affect kidney function. I am sure hoping that is the case. I would love for these doctors to be wrong and have to admit that they really want to be proctologists (because it appears that is where they might have their heads).

It also appears that Merrit is going to move to Amarillo. An opportunity has presented itself and anyone that knows Merrit knows how bashful and wishy washy she is. (Yeah, right). At twenty-three and single she isn't tied down anywhere. I know she and her beau are on the outs right now. I made the mistake of asking what he thought and I got a very curt reply. I really wonder if Merrit will ever be able to maintain a long term relationship, if you get too close you will get run over when she changes direction. I would love to see her get on track and chase the same "carrot" until she reached it rather than being distracted by "a better carrot". Each to his or her own. I suppose with K and Ol we have opportunity to see both ends of the spectrum!

And to the other nephew, who knows who he is, time has expired! You can tell me anything, but don't tell me you are going to do something and then not do it. In the future if you are foolish enough to ask, the answer is "No". I really feel used and abused. I am beginning to think he may have just wanted a buffer between Pepa and him and I was the sacrificial pawn. It won't happen again.

Interesting article on the web yesterday. Sleep habits linked to diabetes risk. If you sleep less than six hours per night or more than nine hours per night you are at risk. If that is the case I need my insulin fix.

FATHER, thank YOU for YOUR love, YOUR mercy and YOUR grace. Thanks for being my safety net when I try to go alone, thanks for forgiving me when I try my solo attempt. FATHER my heart is heavy, my mind is tired, my body aches. I ask for renewal, to be refreshed. I ask that YOU will lift me, energize me. I can't do it, but I know YOU can. FATHER I pray for Krl, for Ollie, for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Jennifer, for Tori, for Ashlyn Kate, for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for those recovering from their injuries, for Yaenga, and for Dr. Mackie. Heal our hearts, heal our minds, heal our bodies. I pray for those hurting from loss and ask YOUR comfort for them. I pray for those of us who struggle in our spiritual journey, lead us. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Sweet surrender.

The gauntlet is thrown down, bloggless in South Abilene, Let's get Monday over with! What a bunch to choose from for my blog today!

As you can tell I am up in the middle of the night, again. Krl is having a fitful night, tossing and turning, talking in her sleep, throwing cover on top of me and then stealing them all away! I finally just got up! I don't know what is going on exactly with her but she seems to be having some sort of crisis. Whether it is a crisis that is affecting her health of vice versa, I don't know.

Last week I got a call from one of my nephews wanting to borrow one of the worksite travel trailers. I don't own them but I am responsible for them. I guess you could say I am a property manager. When we first talked last week, I tried to discourage but I did not say no. We discussed acting responsibly and when we got off the phone my nephew was going to ponder things over night and then call back Tuesday. Didn't hear a word all day long, Wednesday arrived no communique until late late in the day. He was in route to pick up the trailer. While he had told me if he did decide to borrow one he would pick it up late in the morning or around noon Wednesday, it was almost seven in the evening and they were barely on their way from Stephenville. I inquired about a temporary registration permit for pulling the trailer down there, none. I went down the list, nearly everything we had covered had been conveniently pushed aside. (Hello crimestoppers, I would like to report gross insubordination and failure to act responsibly). All this has gone into the memory banks. The topping remains to be seen, if he returns the trailer when he told me he would. He and I both know when that is. Next years decision appears to be much much easier already!

I would like to get a jump on Monday. Catch it by surprise! Catch it with its pj's wrapped around its moonbeams! I bet it would just be an ordinary day!

Krl and I seem to be experiencing peaks and valleys. We had a tremendous date night Friday. She didn't feel quite as good Saturday, and Sunday morning I had gone to get my bath when I heard her alarm. I finally stuck my head in the bedroom and asked if she was going to church and Sunday school and replied no, she didn't feel good. So I did the solo trek. Church seemed to be flat, it seems that this has been recurring frequently. Class has been on the opposite end of the graph, it is spiking. Terry has done a very good job of engaging the class in our "lab". Our study was about mercy. It was a case of deja vue as part of Terry's scripture text was also used in early service by MC.

I know we had a norther blow in to West Central Texas over the weekend. I am trying to decide if I am getting arthritic or if rigor mortis is setting in. I guess if I drink a cup of WD40 and it gets better it is just arthritis. Knees, shoulders, back, ......... ouch!

FATHER, I can already tell we have our work cut out for us with this day. I am thankful that YOU are a mighty and powerful GOD. Git 'er done! Bless my day and week. Take control. I pray for those near and dear who are in need of YOUR healing. I pray for those needing YOUR comfort. I pray for those of us needing YOUR guidance. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. Shout to the LORD!

Finally the weekend! YES!

My week wound down uneventfully. We didn't even do the things that were on the schedule. The owner went to Abilene to run an errand and although he had promised a quick trip it was after two in the afternoon when he returned. I was drafted into the payroll production line about that time and ended up making all my entries on the spreadsheets. Everything, wages, with-holdings, social security, matching social security, EVERYTHING! Neatly package, saved and stored.

While Friday was one of the better days of the past week, the week was not through with its upward spiral. Krl and I did another date night! She called me and actually baited me to fall in a trap. Thursday night we had a brief conversation about Friday and date night. She had taken inventory of gift cards we had in the cabinet and made a restaurant suggestion. When she called me she asked "Are we ordering pizza tonight of do you want to go out?" I told her I thought we were going out. She finally 'fessed up that she was dressed and ready, she was just giving me an out in case I had had a tough day. When I got home she was ready to go and looked just gorgeous! The only downside was that we could not have picked a worse time to go eat. The restaurants were covered with UIL participants so we were going to have a pretty long wait. We ended up waiting at the bar in the lounge! Luckily there were two stools because it was standing room only with the patron line stretching out the door. The hostess gave us our pager and told us twenty-five minutes (I think one of the qualifiers for being a hostess is "can you lie with a straight face?"), it didn't matter, we had all night! We indulged in some "top shelf" and talked like we don't talk at home. We laughed, giggled, and talked some more. Finally our pager went off and we tallied out at the bar and moved on to the dining area! As expected the food was great! We over did it (that is becoming a Friday night tradition) and were back home by eight o'clock. Krl was exhausted, I was still a little wound, so by eight-o-one she was fast asleep in bed and I was in the living room trying to put my week behind me! Believe me when I say I needed this sensational ending to my week! Thanks Dear! What's on for next week? NO, no, surprise me! Six more days to Friday! YES!

Today in history. Twenty-three years ago today April 23, 1982 an olive skinned phillie, future real estate mogul, was born. Happy birthday Miss Ollie!

Kyle Patrick Henry and his one act play from Highland High School are competing tonight at Hardin Simmons. They are one step away from advancing to the state competition in Austin. Kyle is on the crew and will receive his "letter" in drama! Way to go Kyle! Kyle has also been asked by the senior class to serve as an usher at their graduation! I think that calls for an "adda boy Kyle!"

Chris is coming in, actually he is already in. He flew in yesterday to Lubbock. I haven't heard from him lately so if Krl and I go to the play maybe he will be there and I can visit. He should be just a couple of months from graduating from school in Little Rock. I think final touches are being put on his new enterprise opportunity. I know Pat has busted her butt putting it all together. It has cost her one of her schools she serves as nurse to, but if any of them needed to go it was that one! Another reason behind Chris' trip in is that his birthday is Monday, (I believe), he is turning twenty years old! Happy Birthday Chris!

Paw, my kiddo's step grandfather, is ill in San Angelo. He is in his eighties and has been battling a problem with declining liver function but reports yesterday were telling them he had suffered a mild heart attack. He has held a very special spot in my kids' hearts, especially those who have lived in Angelo. There are concerns that the biggest health problem he faces is that his "will" is gone. He and Ollie are exceptionally close and one of the upbeats is that Ollie is not as worried about her health as she is his at this point. Keep them both in your thoughts and prayers.

FATHER I am thankful for YOUR surprises, YOUR gifts of grace. Truly, when I am down YOU lift me up. Thank YOU! Thank YOU for Krl and the wonderful outing we had last evening. Help us to be focused outward and not inward on self. Work through us. Use us for YOUR glory! FATHER I lift up Krl, Merrit, Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Paw, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, Jennifer, Tori, TJ, Anna, Jess, those continuing to recover from their injuries, Yaenga, and Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR healing and care for them, I pray YOUR will be done. I pray for those suffering from loss. Fill their void as only YOU can. I pray for those of us who are struggling in our journey with YOU, lead us, show us YOUR way. I pray for our spiritual family, for our leaders. YOU are good to me.

Wow, I slept until almost five! What a slackard I must be.

Friday! Gotta love it. I know I do. My day today (unless something changes) is going to be different. The business owner and I are going to be moving equipment home from his gin jobsite. I have been lobbying for this as some equipment that has been leased needs to be turned in because it has been idle for over a month. This hasn't been a mamoth expense but it is an unnecessary one. Add to this the on going insurances required on the jobsite and it all adds up. Take care of those penneys and they'll take care of you.

I had an interesting cell phone call the other day. I was caught totally off guard and after just a few words from the other end of the line I didn't catch the gentleman's name. When my phone rang, I didn't readily recognize the number. The gentleman asked to whom he was speaking and I gave him my first name. He told me that he was a Texas Ranger investigating the phone records of my friend (who recently crossed the line and messed up). Once I heard Texas Ranger, I didn't catch the name so I can only assume, but I know, it was Walker, Texas Ranger. (You know, he looks a lot like Chuck Norris). I had nothing to hide. I had not seen LK since December. I had only talked with him a few times on the phone, the most recent call being about a week before he went on the lamb. I quickly and deliberately divulged all the information I held because the last thing I need is Walker putting some of that Kung Fu karate on me and then Jimmy showing up just in time to help haul me in to visit with Walker's girlfriend DA, Alex. (She is kind of cute though). Anyhow, I could have been a star!

Talked with Ollie yesterday, she was at work and had her game face on. She sounded much better than she had earlier in the week. We are still compiling info in regard to her health problems. I ask that you continue to remember her.

FATHER, YOU continue to amaze me. Thank YOU for watching over me and getting me through the week. I continue to ask YOUR watch and care, continue to guide me where YOU intend. I ask healing for Krl, for Merrit, for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Jennifer, for Ashlyn Kate, , for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for Tori, for those injured in the accident, for Yaenga and for Dr. Mackie. I pray for those saddened by grief and ask that YOU comfort them. I pray for those of us who are encountering obstacles on our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. FATHER, I lay it all at YOUR feet, YOU are GOD!

Well, well, well. Early to rise.........

I guess sleeping is the one thing I do really well because I can do it in half the time it takes other people to do it! My "dream" night is to sleep long enough to hear the alarm go off.

This has been a week filled with Mondays. It seems like each time I finish a crappy project two more spring up on my desk. I have filled out more forms than should be allowed. One of the crazy aspects of the transportation industry is the different ways other states try to tax companies. Some do a weight distance tax, other states require the filing of mileage reports for miles run in a particular state by each fleet vehicle as well as total fleet miles. They also want a roster of equipment which ran in their state, complete with purchase date and purchase price. Ultimately they try to figure out what percentage of the year equipment was within their state's boundaries and then they want to tax it with property taxes although it has already been taxed in its home state. The only upside to this type project is that you have the mileages put together in advance for the next parasite, IFTA quarterly reports, and ultimately for the R-tag prorated registration forms. The last two are totally different blogs though. Sorry I just need to vent!

Work has been just that this week. The owner has been in the office for two days and I swear is ADD. He will begin a new project every half hour and never finish one. I have been frustrated but lately I have been feeling taken advantage of. Many of the things that I am now expected to do are on the outside of our initial agreement. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind stepping over the line and helping out but it sure seems like the work I was hired to do is becoming secondary. Late yesterday I spent part of the afternoon working with a company carrier package which would allow me to put a load on a truck coming in from New Mexico. (Dispatch is outside the boundaries and something I do not enjoy). I received an eighteen page fax, read and filled out the paperwork, put together our setup package and faxed thirteen pages back, got on the phone agreed on a freight rate and I called and routed the truck for the pickup only to receive a call from the customer with a glitch in the insurances. When I left I was totally frustrated. I don't feel that this new customer is being difficult and looking for a problem, I believe they have uncovered a glitch that has been present since the owner made an insurance agent change in January. Give me the tools to get the job done! Sorry, I wasn't through venting!

We are continuing to unravel more about Ollie's situation. Doctors have placed her on a level two kidney waiting list. We do know that her maternal aunt and two cousins on that side of her lineage have passed the initial screening as possible donors. Krl called and talked with her on the phone but "Ol" told her she was tired of being preached to, acted really angry and told Krl she really didn't want to talk with anyone. Sounds pretty normal. Frustrated, angry. Only thing was, she had just finished mowing her yard. Duh! Part of the problem that got us to this point is not taking care of yourself! Ollie's mom returned to Angelo late Wednesday and sometime later today Krl and her will probably talk and maybe we can get additional info. I have lots of problems understanding all this but what I am told is that Ollie's recently diagnosed diabetes has damaged her kidneys.

Good golly! Another work day! Best thing about it is that it IS Thursday! I am finding it difficult to "get excited" about going in! I working on the mental side (not venting).

As most of you know the mother of the man I am working with had quadruple bypass last Friday. She is doing well, hopefully she will be released from the hospital tomorrow. Earlier this week I realized one of the company trucks was missing. I looked at the dispatch sheets, the fleet shop, on the yard, no truck. We are talking about a big blue Peterbilt. Finally I asked where it might be and I was told it was at the hospital parking lot. They went on to explain it was being used by any family member who needed to rest. O.K.. If the family RV is a Peterbilt, Kenworth, or a Mack............ you might be a redneck! No charge for that one Mr. Foxworthy!

Pray for my day!

FATHER, I need YOU in my day. I ask for YOU to keep me centered and focused on what is important. Help me to be diligent and thorough in my work. Help me to know what direction YOU plan for me to go and when it is time. FATHER, I lift up Merrit, Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, Jennifer, Tori, TJ, Anna, Jess, those continuing to recover from their injuries, Yaenga, and Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR miracle of healing for them all. I continue to ask comfort for those hurting from loss. I pray for those of us struggling on our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Send more angels!

I don't have much blog in me today. I am deflated. I am down. I am depressed. My heart is very sad and very heavy. I am filled with questions.

Yesterday I received a call from Ollie (Merrit Aleis) our youngest daughter. She has had some developing health issues. Recently these have escalated and the prognosis is very serious. Her kidney function is very low. One kidney is functioning at 19% the other is working at 72%. Her doctors are wanting to put her on the waiting list for a kidney. I am awaiting more word from her mother who was in route to be with her. They have begun to circle the wagons as the other two siblings are being tested to see if they might be suitable donors. Her mother is also going to be tested as well as Krl and Ollie's grandparents. I know I am the wrong blood type but in addition to this I cannot even donate blood due to having osteo-myalitis many years ago. Unless something has recently changed, I will never be a viable blood or organ donor. I figure the first step will be dialysis when it is called for. One thing about this group we are hard headed and we are not quitters.

It seems like every time Ollie gets things going in one direction something will scatter them like a covey of quail. Of course as many of you know, she was named 2004 rookie of the year for Remax. She recovered from a slow start to have a really good first quarter of '05. Recently she had become engaged and was planning a Vegas getaway for her wedding later in the year. In addition to this she has been taking a full load of classes (until recently) working toward her college degree. FYI Saturday the 23rd she will turn 23. Happy birthday Ol!

Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as her doctors work out a plan of action. Pray for a suitable donor to be found.

FATHER I am humbled by YOUR opportunites for GRACE. I don't know where to start. I am full of questions, I want to be mad, I just don't know. But I do know YOU are in control and YOU can move mountains, through YOU all things are possible. I pray that YOU will deliver Ollie from this affliction. Restore her and make her whole. I continue to pray for Krl and her health. Thank YOU for resting her last night. I pray for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Ashlyn Kate, for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for Jennifer, for Tori, for thos recovering from their injuries, for Yaenga, and for Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR healing for them all. I continue to pray for those saddened with grief. I ask that YOU comfort them. I pray for those of us who encounter obstacles in our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. Every blessing YOU pour out I'll turn back in praise!

Wow. Another fitful night in south Abilene. While Krl enjoyed three good nights of rest the past two have been messed up. Last night for both of us. I was up and at 'em shortly after midnight. Now that dog won't hunt!

My Monday was just that. Not a particular busy day but a long one none the less. My excess time continues to build and build, try as I might to leave early I never get away. At some point we are going to have to square it all up and not everyone is going to be happy about it.

My Tuesday has already started with calls from disgruntled truckers. I'm, not ......., they're not .......... . If these guys would look they would find that they are not the boss (and there is probably a reason for that). How do truck drivers meet people and make new friends? They find another job! (They meet their new supervisors and their former co-workers are thrilled they are gone).

I really have an attitude problem today. I am down, my heart is heavy, I am going to need some help to get through today!

FATHER, work YOUR magic on me. Lift me, energize me, fix me. I pray for Krl and her health, please return her restful sleep to her. I pray for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Ashlyn Kate, for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for Tori, for Jennifer, for those recovering from their injuries, for Yaenga, and for Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR miracle of healing for them. I pray for those saddened by loss. Fill their void. I pray for those of us searching in our journey. Keep us centered and focused. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. I am in awe of YOUR love!

Counters are silly. I figure if I have a counter and I don't blog and umpteen people hit my blog it shouldn't count. End hit counter. I don't need it for my ego. That's not why I blog, I do it as a self help.

My day began early, I was sitting in my chair at my desk by seven-thirty. I had a good jump on my day. I decided I would take a quick break and blog but due to ISP problems that didn't happen. I had taken the time to put it all on the page and then I couldn't get it to hook up to publish. Oh well, it was good therapy.

Thank YOU FATHER for all YOU do. Keep me centered, keep me focused. Please bless my day and week. Work through me, use me. I pray for those in need of YOUR healing. I pray for those saddened by grief, comfort them. I pray for guidance for those of us on our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. This is YOUR day!

Sometimes the best days are the ones you expect the least from.

Our Sunday was one of these days. We expected to go to Highland and be uplifted and engaged through the worship. We expected to be challenged by the Sunday School lesson. All of these expectations came true. I am glad that Mike is through with his Ecclesiates series. I think it is very possible that he needed to preach it as much or more than the congregation needed it. It is part of the healing. Terry has our class pointed in an interesting direction. It is more like a lab. He told us that class can be purely academic. Exposed and walked away from. Or we can be exposed and then do an assessment. I think I would carry it one more step further. Academic, Assessment, Application. It is going to prove to be an interesting study!

Saturday, Krl and I had been sitting around the house and all the sudden the Sunday menu came in front of me! She was on the phone but I could not help blurting it out. Baked chicken, squash dressing, green bean casserole, yams with marshmallows and pecans, cranberry sauce and fresh home baked bread. Yum. She was so taken with it she told her friend on the phone about it and her friend decided on the menu as well. Her friend came over for recipes later.

Trc and the girls came by late Saturday to pick up Max, the grandhound. Krl told them the Sunday menu and all they wanted to know was what time! Brently was leaving for a couple of jobs in El Paso so they were free as birds. They came over about mid afternoon and Krl had paced the meal where it was fresh out of the oven when they arrived. It was a very enjoyable, laid back afternoon. I know Krl and I enjoyed it and feel sure they did too. The only downside was that Lauren didn't make it. Maybe the others will make her feel like she missed out.

FATHER, thank YOU for the good day, YOUR day. I pray for a blessed week. Surround me, guide me, use me. I continue to pray for those near and dear who are in need of YOUR healing. I pray for those grieving and needing answers and comfort. I pray for those of us struggling in our journey with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. When I am lost and alone YOU give me strength.

Good night! A long stretch of sleep for Krl and I both. I got up and took the trouble makin' hounds out of the bedroom. Krl and the senior hound group are still snoozing! Last night was better or else I was comatose. I think Brandy has exhausted herself worrying about Max.

I will tell you one thing, Max, the Jack Russell "Terror" is a bottom feeder. He is a toe nibblin', heel bitin', thick skulled, foolish young pup! I have enlisted Brandy as my digit guard. I try to keep her between Max and I, if she doesn't physically intervene I will at least get an audio warning that Max is approaching! Oh to have their energy!

Our day is unstructured! Nothing planned specifically. I might get a wild hair and go look for a book. I still have a gift card that I wouldn't mind spending if I can find something appealing. Krl is talking of looking for plants for her flower beds. I gave her a definite thumbs up on the weather. The old mesquites are out!

I haven't talked with my contacts in the St. Lawrence area lately. I would almost bet that they are starting to put some seed in the ground. They would probably like to see a planting rain just to help things along. They always push the envelope put there. Early bird gets the worm. First in first out!

Last night Pepa called me. Krl was already in bed. I was miserable from the seafood and pasta and decided to wait before I turned in for the evening. Pepa said they had finished laying off all their rows late yesterday. They have started preparations to plant milo so it won't be long until it is busy busy.

I have been trying to put together a deal to sell the last fifty loads of whole burrs that we have on hand at work. I had thought we had a line on them to go to the Scott plant located at Cresson. They are trying to do some gardening compost for Wal-Mart. It seems that they have some year old burr compost that is too far gone and they want to blend it with some current crop year burrs. Anyhow, they are wanting to get them for nothing, which makes my job brokering them difficult. I get to thinking about the old saying that farmers sell everything wholesale and buy everything retail. Maybe we should try to find someone who would sack these burrs and direct market them ourselves. FYI, for 44,000 pounds the price is $132.00, trucking is more than the product (Luckily we are the closest source for them, pay us or pay the truck!). I get to looking at what they would retail for and it blows my mind. $11,000 per truck load retail. We have fifty loads, $550,000 worth of retail burrs. That is just our excess! Remember if you do the opposite of what I do you will be O.K.. I'll take half!

FATHER, I ask for a blessed weekend. One filled with laughter, filled with rest and relaxation. I continue to ask that YOU rest and heal Krl. I continue to lift up Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, TJ, Anna, Jess, those recovering from their injuries, Dr. Mackie, and Yaenga. I ask YOUR miracle of healing for them all. I pray for those hurting from loss. Fill their void with YOU. I pray for those of us who encounter stumbling blocks on our journey with YOU. Give us resolve and purpose. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. How great YOU are.

It's a little different for me to blog at the end of the day instead of at the very start of it. All the questions of what kind of day today was have been answered. It was taxing! The mystery remains, how did I get through it? Two people know, me and the man upstairs!

I went in early in order for the owner and his wife to go to the hospital and be with Yaenga before her surgery. I was on track to be there not long after seven when I discovered I had left my cell phone. That is the only number some of the contractors know so I circled back and got it and I still made the thirty minute drive to the north in twenty minutes! Had a brief exchange with the bosses wife who serves as the office manager, getting all the particulars for the day. The way it turned out I was beginning the day with two boys, seven and three, sleeping in the house. I was assured that they would sleep late, very late, but please check on them periodically just in case! Eleven minutes after eight, I saw movement next door and here they came! Both of them. We all know how rambunctious a well rested boy can be, multiply that by two! They came into the office for a while and dinged off the walls. I was at a pretty good point to pause so we went back across the yard and I fixed cereal and once again we made the trek back to the office. Who says there is no justice in this world? I sat both of them down at their Dad's desk to eat their breakfast. While they were busy eating I quickly formed two paper airplanes and then the air war began! About the most damage done was when one of the planes nose dived into a cereal bowl and was drenched with cow juice! Everyone survived, I am glad to report. About an hour later my co-worker Tommi arrived with her boys and informed me she was going to take my two charges back to her house for the day! I reluctantly, but quickly agreed! After that it sure got quiet! It was a pretty good day. Just really long. I stayed and helped with payroll until five-thirty.

Yaenga's surgery went very well. When they got in there they decided to do quadruple bypass instead of triple. The procedure took just over three hours and she was doing well in CCU. Two days and they will move her out on the floor and rehab begins! We are thankful and ask for your continued thoughts and prayers.

I got home and Krl and I had a date night! I popped off this morning when she got up to let the grandhound out. It is very odd for her to be stirring at that hour of the morning and we were discussing tonight's dinner and I suggested seafood and pasta! She immediately accepted and I think she was ready and dressed from about noon on to go to Red Lobster. She was wearing some new duds she got yesterday and was very pretty. I did my seafood pasta with tomato herb sauce and she did her whatever you got in the kitchen plate! I have no idea where a woman as small as Krl puts that much food. Lobster, crab legs, grilled shrimp, shrimp scampi (I will quit right there before I sound like Bubba in Forrest Gump) served on brown rice. She was a little miffed because they seem to have done some menu changes, they had taken away her scallops and all the portions were smaller. It was nice to sit and visit while someone else waited on us but I really think when we buy the stuff and fix it at home it is better!

Lauren has been running in the district track meet yesterday and today in Odessa. Trc and the rest of the family went out late yesterday but not until they had dropped off Max, their Jack Russell Terrier, to stay with Meme and Dandy. We have four hounds. Three old ones and then the hot headed redhead I call Sasparilla. Krl still calls her Brandy and on occasion I will call her Maple Syrple. Max is only three months old, fast as a jack rabbit but not quite there with the brains. He continues to pick at Brandy and when she snaps, he takes off running and when he rounds the corner she meets him head on. I think he believes she is a twin! She is pretty quick herself and man does she have an attitude! Max may be a changed hound by the time he goes home!

FATHER, thank YOU for getting me through the week. I pray for rest and renewal. I thank YOU for Krl's good night of rest and ask that YOU bless her with another. I continue to petition YOU on her health's behalf. I continue to pray for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, For Ashlyn Kate, for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for those continuing to recover from their injuries, for Yaenga, and for Dr. Mackie. I ask that YOU heal them and comfort them. I pray for those who grieve. Surround them with YOUR love, YOUR mercy and YOUR grace. I pray for those of us who battle within on our journey with YOU. Give us direction. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. YOU are my victory!

Different schedule today. I did go back to the metroplex but it was an early appointment. 9:30 AM., leaving Abilene for the drive, makes the day fly by! I had eight hours in by twelve-thirty, went into the office for a couple of hours and got the plan for tomorrow.

"Yaenga" (the mother of the man I am helping out) is having triple bypass surgery in the morning. Some of you might know her as Ramona, others might know her as the better half of Larry's Better Burger. If you have figured all of this out you are close enough in the loop to not worry about their family privacy. She has not felt quite up to snuff for a while and they figured it all out yesterday. Please include her and her family in your prayer list!

I have really enjoyed the last couple of days out of the office! My office has been a great big room with a blue ceiling, a view that goes on forever and the lighting is exceptional. Just when I needed it the man upstairs delivered!

Krl and I have had several conversations about different things concerning the work situation. We have not agreed on everything, I doubt we ever will. Krl keeps asking when is it all going to end. We continue to work towards the remedy for this situation. It seems that every day brings another letter or another visit by the constable. Oh, they are going to miss me when I chop them off at the knees. I cannot wait to tell them talk to RStC!!!!!!!

I have been reading a book and I keep going back to a particular page and chapter. It talks of problems, trials, tribulations, testing and how all of these should be looked at as opportunities for Grace. I am still mulling this over. I wonder can you overdose on Grace?

FATHER, thank YOU for two really good days. My tail is dragging but waggin'! I pray for a good close to the week. See me through! I pray for Krl and her health, I pray for Ramona and her doctors, heal her and restore her health. I continue to pray for all those near and dear. See to their needs. I pray for those sad from loss, fill their void with YOU. I pray for those of us who struggle in following YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Where YOU lead I will follow!

Bidness is good. A very busy, very long day at the office. Today holds promise of more of the same except longer.

Due to lots of scheduling conflicts I am going to the metroplex today. I will go into the office and spend a portion of my morning there, then I have to be in the metroplex by 2pm.. Our personnel and our equipment are stretched so thin. We are hoping we can survive the day and then we only have two more days until some vacationers will return. None too soon. Some of the guys are leaving for extended road trips, it may be a month before they will return to their familiar haunts. We are trying to figure out what the repercussions are going to be taking that much equipment out of the mix for an extended period. We are talking with additional lease operators who have expressed interest in leasing on. The company program is much more appealing with new rates that were supposed to go into effect April 1 but now the vendor is dragging their feet and saying maybe by June 1. Hello, I don't think so! We have been weighing all the possibilities for the increase in business. Superior service? Pricing? Availability? Lanes?

I spent a large portion of my Tuesday on the telephone setting up some new vendors. This is the side of the business I really don't like. Vendors and dispatch. I prefer to stay on the employee, billing, banking, books and compliance side. Krl and I are trying to decide where the work situation is going and possibly how long I am going to stay in the present work situation. I will sure be glad when I grow up and I can see what I have become.

I got an e-mail from Rian yesterday. The first in a few days. He said he and Reid are going to "bach" it this weekend. Erica is going to Dallas for the weekend. That should be interesting. I don't know who needs to be taking care of who!

Pray for my day!

FATHER I ask YOUR blessing on this day. I pray for safe travel. I pray that YOU will keep me paced and centered. I pray that YOU will continue to work on my head and heart. I pray for Krl's health. I pray for Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, TJ, Anna, Jess, Jennifer, Tori, those still recovering from their accident injuries, and Dr. Mackie. I ask for YOUR gift of healing for them. I pray that Yaenga will get good results from her testing procedure this morning. I pray for those who are grieving, comfort them. I pray for those of us at crossroads in our spiritual journey, give us direction and purpose. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. My hope is built on nothing less than JESUS CHRIST.

My Monday didn't let me down, but I didn't let it get me down either. Just as I expected with little variation.

I went in early to find that the move to the new office had been completed over the weekend. Everything that was in my desk Friday, now was not. Including some quotes in progress as well as some quotes ready to be presented. Guess what? When the phone rang it was for these quotes. All of them. While I knew the bottom line, some of the contributing numbers on up the page were needed to sell the deal. After a brief spaz spell and some serious digging I found all my paperwork and was able to pass the info and pricing on. We were able to make the deal.

I went on to work with a different attitude Monday. I decided I was going to be a straight eight hour guy. Being an outsider brought in to observe, put together some spreadsheets and hopefully be able to give some direction and advice it has been very frustrating at times to work in the current structure. Luckily, the owner was back in the office and he could see some of the problems yesterday. It would appear that everyone is quite content to work within their self imposed parameters, not stepping over, not sharing workload. Job security. Nah!

I am having kind of a rough patch. I don't know really what is going on. Krl tells me I am meaner than a rattlesnake, and I don't want to be. Is it work? Maybe. Is it other tangibles? Probably. Am I exhausted? Yes. Do I feel bad? Yes. Am I depressed? Definitely. I'll dig out. Bear with me.

I am trying to pace myself this morning. I have to go by and pick up doughnuts for a board meeting at 8:00. It I work it just right I will be able to stop and eat breakfast on my way to work. That said, my eight hours will start early (and end early). I am going in and drawing my boundaries for the day! Ha!

I am afraid of where this week is going to go. The owner's Mom is going in for a procedure Wednesday morning. Doctors are doing some serious tests. I already know Wednesday is not only hump day, it is also the beginning of some double up days. We will begin a transfer from deep south Texas into New Mexico. This is on top of the regular steady "can" move. Add a couple of transfers to Colorado, three add ons for Wednesday Waco's and two Waco Thursday add ons. Add another requisition for Friday S. Texas to NM along with an additional Monday move and the South Texas move should be hitting its stride and hopefully get in rhythm for the next month. Divide this by one of the regular long haulers taking vacation and it could get really interesting. The best part of driving big trucks is that it's like a bicycle. You don't forget how to do it, you just have to remember which side to get on............. (Never mind, maybe I have forgotten!).

FATHER, I am glad YOU have a sense of humor. I hope I am entertaining as I stumble and bumble my way through each test. I need YOUR help, YOUR intervention. I pray for peace of mind, I pray for release. I pray for Krl and her health issues. I pray for Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, TJ, Anna, Jess, Jennifer, Tori, those continuing to recuperate from their injuries, and for Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR gift of healing for them all. I continue to ask YOUR comfort for those hurting from loss. I pray for those of us who wander and lose our way in our walk with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Forgive me when I fall short and disappoint YOU or those I love. Strengthen me in my weaknesses. JESUS loves me!

Yuk, Yuk, Yuk! Monday. Bah humbug. The only people that like Monday's are barbers and preachers!

Church was excellent. Steven Moore was worship leader and his enthusiasm is contagious. His praise team was full of the spirit and energized. It was electric. I do wish they would put the Highland Helper in its entirety on the Highland website. Next time Steven leads I would love to have Pat, Hag and Kyle come over.

This is really beginning to irritate me. I do not like dreading going to work. I probably need to back off and re-evaluate the situation. I am finding more and more that I prefer to be out of the office regardless of what I am doing. We have limped along for so long with a patched work crew in the office that it would seem abnormal to have full attendance. One of the girls in the office fell off her porch last week and broke her ankle. She is scheduled to go in for a walking cast this morning.

I am exhausted. Is it possible to sleep but not rest? Odds are if I get still late in the afternoon, I am going to doze off. It just doesn't seem like it revitalizes me. Maybe I have narcolepsy. I know I can't be pleasant to be around. Maybe I am just worn out.

FATHER, surprise me. Go ahead and make my day! I pray for my spirits to be lifted, to be energized, to be boosted. I pray for an improved outlook. I pray to be rested and renewed. FATHER I continue to pray for Krl, for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Ashlyn Kate, for Jennifer, for TJ, for Anna, for Jess, for Tori, for those recovering from their injuries. I ask YOUR miracle of healing for them all. I pray for those hurting from loss and ask YOUR comfort for them. I pray for those of us lost and searching and I ask YOUR guidance. I pray for our spiritual family and leaders. Take the LORD with you!

Well, well, well! Where to start where to start.

The "brief safety meeting" ran two and a half hours yesterday, grrrrrr!

Got home and Krl was doing the yard. All she would allow me to do was move objects in her path and help put things away. I think she was wanting to prove to herself that she can still do it. She did, but it really took a toll.

I have been reading the UM Hurricanes bulletin boards all through spring practice. Yesterday was the spring game. 8500 people attended! Yep, that was right, no mistake on my part. Of course I have had a special interest in the quarterback battle between Kyle Wright and Kirby. They have split time this spring working with the first team. Yesterday Kirb began hot and went cold while Wright began cold and turned hot. Ending stats had Kirby 7 of 16 for 109 with two picks while Kyle was 10 of 13 with two TDs. The message board said only one of the picks was Kirb's fault. There were also comments from alumni about Kirb's speed. Kyle has one year more than Kirb at UM. Coach Coker thought they both made some plays but also missed some they should have made. There is a brief spring game summary at Yahoo sports, click on "more" in the headings and go to football, NCAA, headlines will come up, the Miami headline is "Wright shines in Miami Spring Game". Keep your head in the game Kirb, work hard. When you are competing at a NCAA Division 1 school it is getting to be an elite group of talent! By the way, "Coach" has been down there the last couple of weeks and Jani was scheduled to fly down the middle of this last week for the game. By the way, O 31-D21.

Not much on our schedule for today, a couple of "honey do's" to do after church and after that, not a whole lot! Nascar, laying on the couch. Dreading Monday. I am not looking forward to some of my new work load that came out of the safety meeting. Five months to the next contract. Chase that carrot!

Krl and I both are down. I don't know why really. I know she doesn't feel well, we both battled the bug this past week so that may be a contributing factor but it seems our emotional roller coaster is really making things tough. I just hope we have enough speed to come back out of this dip and get back on a high.

FATHER, take charge. Fill us with YOU. Make YOUR purpose our purpose, YOUR ways our ways. Help us to realize that so many things of this life are trivial. I pray for Krl and for all of those near and dear who are in need of YOUR healing. I pray for those who are grieving. I pray for direction for those of us who have lost our way. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Into my life.... .

The week that wouldn't end!

This has been another of those weeks. Extreme on all fronts. Difficult by any means. And it seems to just keep dragging on.

Talking about dragging on. How long does it take to bury a pope? A week apparently. Now the official mourning period has begun for PJP2. I have tried to refrain from writing about his life and death but they have kept him in the forefront so much it has been difficult. There is no doubt he did some wonderful things. There is also no doubt he turned away from other difficult issues. I was up and blogging yesterday morning with the tele on in the background with his funeral. I am not catholic. Maybe I don't understand it all, but it was very alarming as it seemed that PJP2 was comparing himself to Jesus in some of his writings that have been made public and others made comparisons in his eulogy. There is NO comparison.

Krl and I seem to be on opposite sleep cycles. I can sleep for just a few hours early in the night while she can't go to sleep until the wee hours before morning. Krl's situation is becoming better as each day goes by that she has had her medications back. We have laughed about the other night. I had been asleep a couple of hours, she had been busy cleaning. She came in the bedroom, woke me up and in a very excited, bubbly way asked if I wanted to go to IHOP! Its been a long time since my last Sadie Hawkins date! While I appreciated being asked out, I took a rain check for a more favorable hour! I think I am going to buy some stock in pinesol and bleach. Every morning the house smells like it has gone through another nightly wash down!

I have been putting off a trip to Lubbock. We had thought that Ollie could handle some detail for us but apparently she is too busy. It has now been a week since she "overnighted" some paperwork to us. We have talked multiple times and even told her to just fax it to the house but it still hasn't arrived. This may be something that influences my response next time she is "on the hot seat". ie., Don't offer to do something if you have no intention of doing it.

Rian is in Andrews tonight and tomorrow. His best friend from Angelo State is getting married! Congratulations Hylton. Rian is doing this alone. Erica and Reid were planning to go but one of Erica's uncles passed away during the night Thursday and his memorial service is Saturday afternoon. Rian and Erica have scrambled to cover all the bases as best they can. Sometimes try as we might, plan as we might, life presents us with choices.

The final part of my work day was spent setting things up for the safety meeting tomorrow. It seems there are multiple issues to address about problems concerning different vendors. Also on the agenda are some concerns pertaining to fuel pricing and associated problems. Hopefully it will be short and sweet and insurance will be happy for another couple of months. I just hate it is mid Saturday afternoon, that messes up the whole afternoon.

I am ready for the next step, whatever that might be, wherever it might lead. At the present time I am finding my job is not fulfilling. It may be that a lot is being taken for granted of or possibly taken advantage of. We have had some odd circumstances which have taken the owner out of the equation for an extended period. It would appear this might continue another week. I am really uncomfortable with some of the recent developments. I feel it is imperative to have a goal and some type of plan to work toward that goal. I have flown by the seat of my pants and that can get breezy!

Lead on FATHER. Take this load from my shoulders. Remove the weight from my heart. I pray for rest. I pray for relief. I pray that YOU will still the winds and show YOUR miracle of spring. I pray for timely rains and bountiful harvests. I continue to pray for Krl and her health. I pray for Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Jennifer, Ashlyn Kate, TJ, Anna, Jess, those injured in the accident, Tori, and for Dr. Mackie. I ask for their healing. I pray for those suffering from loss. Fill their void with YOU. I pray for all of us who wander in our search for our place in YOUR plan. I pray for LK, that he will get his life in order. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. Forgive us when we are weak and sinful. Strengthen us in our weaknesses. YOU reign victorious!

I am am miffed blogger. I had another sleepless in south Abilene night and I got up to blog about three. Finished it out, went to do the spazoid spell check and my blog disappeared before my very eyes. So here goes my second attempt!

I think, therefore I may be.

I did the metroplex thing yesterday and was back in Abilene by noon. Had my eight hours in. Did an extra couple for good measure. I was drained. I guess the quick trip was a little much on the heels of "the bug". I am going to have to work at it to make it through today.

With the happenings of the past week and the revelations about one of my friends I caught myself looking across the countryside and when I would see a cow I would wonder. Had my friend ever coveted that particular cow. Did that cow know how lucky it had really been. Needless to say, this past week has added a whole new meaning to "where's the beef?"

They closed the farm store for the funeral so I am going to the office today. Payroll, some data entry and some preparations for a safety meeting tomorrow. Not enough for a whole day.

I need the weekend! I need to be unstructured. I need to be a loose cannon, I need to be me!

FATHER, thank YOU for the safe day, the safe travel. I need YOU to go with me through this day. I pray for Krl and her health. I pray for LK to return and face the music. I continue to lift up Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Jennifer, Ashlyn Kate, TJ, Anna, Jess, Tori, those continuing to recover from their injuries, and for Dr. Mackie. I ask YOUR miracle of healing for them all. I pray for comfort for those who are hurting from loss, surround them with YOUR love. I pray for those of us who continue to search for our way. Draw us to YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. Victory in JESUS!

Now the night is over, morn is drawin near. Do what? If the night is over, morning is already here! That's me, my night, my day all rolled in one.

Luckily I had a pretty good day yesterday. I am desperately hoping that this bug and I have parted company. I went in to the office and had a full day. I thought about it but decided against working the Oasis meal, just in case I am still a "bug" carrier.

It has been very busy at the office, some contracts are being reworked and that has been a nightmare for the owner's wife. The customer keeps comparing contracts from several years back to the new proposals and then screams about the increase. I think part of the problem is that their personnel has rolled over and the new people are grabbing anything they can to reference past agreements, whether it is the most recent or not. Of course the big kicker is that fuel ten years ago was seventy or eighty cents a gallon, yesterday I saw one communicae where one of our contractors had paid two dollars and thirty-nine cents a gallon. Hold on there customer, if you think the proposal of a month ago is bad let us redo it!

I spent the majority of my day catching up. Late in the day I had plans to go up to the fleet shop and begin a list of repairs and supply needs on several pieces of equipment that are out of service. This never happened. I spent a large portion of my afternoon waiting for our computer network man and when he finally arrived we had to go over the networking needs in the new office. He is confident that he can be in and out by Friday. He is a likeable guy but like most computer guys he is so sharp and moves so quickly you wonder how much of what you are saying is getting through. I am going to be out of the office today and I am so in hopes that Deb is going to be there when he arrives to do his thing!

The boss is busy with his seasonal job, out of season. As I have stated previously, he manages the local cooperative gin but spends very little time there when it is not running, unless there is something wrong. The gin has been through almost a month and he was becoming very comfortable with his new found freedom. Tuesday he received a call that the gin bookkeeper's mother was not doing well, health wise, (this situation had been declining over the last few weeks) and later in the day the bookkeeper's mother passed away. The bookkeeper's husband manages the farm store and so my boss is now running the farm store until this situation returns to normal, which may be a couple of weeks. The boss was scheduled to be in Fort Worth this morning so once again I am filling in. I am fixing to finish getting ready and walk out the door. It is a pain to do this schedule but many times I can be through with my day by noon. I will be surprised if I don't experience a little more work variety and get to run the farm store so everyone can attend the funeral Friday. That has happened before. Oh well.

Pray for my day!

FATHER, thank YOU for a good day yesterday. Thanks for getting the worst of this bug by me. I continue to ask that you boost me and energize me to make it through my day. I continue to pray for Krl's health. Please allow her to rest and I ask YOU watch and care over her. I ask for a safe day, a productive day. I pray for all for those needing YOUR gift of healing. Comfort and care for them. I pray for those hurting from loss. I ask YOUR comfort for them. I pray for those of us struggling while searching for YOU. Guide and direct us, draw us to YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. I love YOU and praise YOU!

How 'bout those Lady Bears! Talk about on a mission! Git 'er done!

I am impressed. Rian, Erica, and Reid attend Lady Raider basketball games pretty regularly so I knew Baylor was pretty salty but talk about dominant. I forget how long they said it has been since the Women's National Champion came from a line west of Indiana. Baylor has seen both ends of the spectrum, a low with the men's program and two years later a high with the women's!

I may live. I didn't go in at all yesterday. I laid around for the bigger part of the day. Late in the afternoon I did complete some quarterly reports for a business I work with and I took them to the Post Office. As you can probably tell, I was bored. I am undecided about my day today. This is a nasty little bug. I think (I know, I've thought it before) I am over it but if I am a carrier I sure don't want to spread it at the office. I just feel weak from high outgo, low intake.

It has just been reported that the secret conclave to select the new pope has been set for April 18. What's secret about that? Kind of sounds like one of those secret conclaves of the Ala Baba Temple of the Shrine. For some reason I don't thing Bubba would be an appropriate name for a pope. Nope, not Bubba I either. (How 'bout Junior?).

My friend I wrote about yesterday was indicted by a Scurry County Grand Jury. Authorities have asked for assistance in locating him. Sad deal.

Due to health concern for others I didn't go in to help with the Oasis prep last night. I had also signed up to assist at 4 pm. today but I will probably refrain as well. That would sure be bad to expose seven or eight hundred people. I hate it to sign up and then not deliver, but Krl did call Carolyn and Buzzy to let them know.

Pat called me last night. I hadn't talked with her for a couple of weeks. Last time we talked she was leaving for a brief excursion with Steph to Las Vegas. I had since tried to call but with no luck so I had resigned myself to the fact that my sister and my niece had become Vegas show girls! They had a good time, made some shows and came back with more money than they left with. Pat said that Steph called this week and announced that she and JR are engaged. I know Steph has been pushing her parents towards this for quite some time but that doesn't mean they have to be thrilled. I know that lots of times parents believe no-one is good enough for their child. I think that Steph and JR have gone together forever. Oh well, we can't live their lives for them and sometime we have to relinquish control.

Hag had another epidsode. The man just isn't taking care of himself. Paramedics got him going but everytime, the odds go down for next time. Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. It is unreal how this genetic defect affects blood and respiratory function. I think they drained off another quart yesterday and are still trying to thin it.

FATHER I continue to ask for YOUR healing to get me over this bug. I ask for a blessed day. I continue to pray for Krl and her health issues. I continue to ask YOUR healing for Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, Tj, Anna, Jess, Jennifer, those still recovering from their injuries, and Dr. Mackie. I ask for comfort for those hurting from loss. I ask direction for those of us struggling in our walk with YOU. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. YOU are a mighty and powerful GOD!

Someone call an exterminator, this bug has gotta go!

I woke up Monday feeling that the worst of the battle was behind, the pesky virus bug had finally left for more favorable clientele. I was first in the office and began a steady work process, catching up on data entry for things occurring over the weekend. Finally about twelve-thirty I decided to break for lunch and took time to enjoy a sandwich and the standard issue Diet Coke. I knew that time working "in" the office was limited as we were fixing to work "on" the new office. Sure enough we transitioned and went to the new office and began rewiring telephones, fax machine outlets and computer hookups. Just as we were hitting our stride, I felt a quick hot flash and became sweaty. In a very quick and orderly operation the "bug" marched back into my body. It was a battle of "wills" just to finish the day. We have continued to do battle throughout the night!

Since I am out of the old loop, I usually am spoon fed what info others decide is pertinent. On occasion I get phone calls from former co-workers and we try to keep up. One of these was a co-worker and subcontractor I have used for the last couple of years. About once every ten to fourteen days I will receive a call from this man and he usually spins out a ton of baloney per second that would make Oscar Myer jealous. He had some "run ins" with authorities when he was growing up. When he first came on the scene he was a worker for a subcontractor and had recently been released and made it through the entire parole program. A couple of years after that he went out on his own and became his own man and a very good subcontractor. Throughout this entire time he has maintained a very volatile, on again, off again relationship with his wife. In December she and the kids moved back to the South East portion of the country, causing a severe tailspin for my friend. I had some of his equipment and some of his employees on a job and yet he was "unavailable". His employees were coming to me complaining of missed pay days, phone calls going unanswered and it was apparent things were beginning to unravel. Although we finally made contact and I was assured things were made "right" on all fronts with all people, many things just didn't ring true. In February I called him, just to talk and he was telling me he was going a new direction. He was working with a friend from Oklahoma and becoming a cattle buyer! He was excited, he told me he had finally gotten his head screwed on straight and things were coming together. He had done some contract work that had finally allowed him to catch up on his obligations and he was hopeful that very soon his family would be returning to West Texas. A few weeks later he called me to chat and he was telling me of some demands being made for a new house by his wife, he discussed with me the possible need to sell off some equipment to make this happen and he wanted to be sure I kept him in mind for any future work. I didn't think too much about our conversation, I have become adept at using the "baloney filter" and no alarms went off. Last week I received a call from him and he was in Lubbock looking to buy or lease a cattle trailer to pull behind his Kenworth truck. He made a very long story of how much he was paying to have cattle he was buying, moved. He was giving me some "tips" to pass on to others regarding what he felt were some exceptional equipment buys on the high plains. Our conversation ended very abruptly with him needing to take another call and the promise that he would call back to finish our chat. That was the last time I have heard from him. A phone call from Pepa last evening was filled with "blockbuster" news. It seems my friend has prepared a large pot of water, jumped in and lit the fire! The boy is in a heap of trouble. It seems that in his possession are some cattle that have been "rustled" from points around the area and seem to have been destined to move to Oklahoma! Add to this the allegation that a large sum of money is unaccounted for by his Uncle (who is in the VA hospital in Big Spring) and the scenario does not look good. Word last night was that the Texas Rangers were on his trail and he was last seen near the Metroplex, headed East to points unknown. It would appear he has the stuff West Texas Legends are made of, just a couple hundred years too late! I am concerned for him, for his welfare.

I have been blessed. Growing up I think I have always had a good perception of cause and effect. Of action and adverse reaction. Of rules and penalties. Of paying the piper. Of taking your medicine. Of making your bed and lying in it. Immediately I can hear the adage, "If it sounds too good to be true it probably is!" I realize desperate men have desperate ways. There is nothing as dangerous as a wounded animal. My hopes right now are that this friend will come to his senses. If there are things he needs to face, let him face them. If there are things that need to be righted, let him right them. If there is a price to pay, pay it. I just hope that he will not do anything stupid, but I am fearful for him. A little help here LORD!

FATHER, thank YOU for anchoring me. I ask for relief from this bug. I continue to pray for Krl's health and welfare. I pray for my friend, that YOU will bring him full circle and make him accountable, good bad or ugly. I continue to lift up Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Ashlyn Kate, Jennifer, Tj, Anna, Jess, those continuing to recover from their injuries, and for Tori. I ask YOUR care and comfort for them and ask YOUR gift of healing. I pray for those suffering from loss. Fill their voids with YOUR peace and love, YOUR mercy and grace. I pray for those of us who struggle in our spiritual journey, give us new resolve. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. Grant that all will seek and find.

Very quickly. I am running behind. Another fitful night of sleep at our house.

I am hopeful that I am recovered enough from our bug that I can work today. I would call in sick but we are supposed to be moving into our new office today. Being only one of two males in the office it might make it really tough on the other one.

Hope your day is a good one!

FATHER I pray for a blessed day, a blessed week. I continue to lift up those in need of YOUR healing and also those in need of YOU comfort. I pray for of us that need YOUR guidance and presence in our lives. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. Bless-ed be YOUR name.

Not a good weekend! I think that Krl and I both are suffering form some type of bug although it is hard to tell with Krl's IBS/digestive disorder. As for me I KNOW I am fighting a bad bug. Stomach and abdominal cramps, mad dashes to the "little entrepreneur" room and quick decisions as to which end faces where!

I don't feel well, but I labored through my weekend duties. Errands and grocery store! Been there, done that. Krl's situation is different. I am already in trouble and know I can't work my way out until she decides to let me, so I have a tale to tell!

Krl's doctor has been out for two months. He had a procedure of some sort and has been recuperating. A month ago Krl ran out of all her medications and went in for an appointment. She had to see an alternate physician who in short was a hurry up and count the money jerk! He didn't even fill all her meds and when she called the following day, he wanted her to come back for another office visit to get the one he overlooked. He finally did give her a thirty day supply of her anti-depressant which lasted into this past week. Now she is out of it. I am puny. Recipe for disaster! She hasn't slept in the last three nights and has done her level best to keep me from sleeping as well. Add to this, the fact that she has this idea that when I return from the store and step through the door, she needs to take the bags I am carrying, which occurred yesterday one of which she dropped that had two quart jars of dill pickles (which broke),and this was the high point of the day. She stepped on glass, I didn't' respond appropriately and it was down hill from there. While my response wasn't what I might have hoped, I didn't stoop to bringing her family into it (for a change). Add to this the daylight saving time change (which I am also blamed for) and I knew she wasn't going to make church or Sunday school. Krl made a statement that always bothers me. "I can't believe you can act like that and then go to church."

I go to church not because I think I am perfect, I go because I know I am imperfect. I need it. I need the out pouring of forgiveness, of God's mercy, of God's grace seeping out of the seams.

So with that said I will attempt to reclaim our weekend.

Final four, only one that I like is still alive. Go NC! I had hoped that Louisville would prevail over Illinois. I find many similarities with Coach Pitino. He talks of rededicating himself after the Celtic debacle and his PHD. I too have my PHD. I too am Poor, Hungry, and Driven!

FATHER, thank YOU for all YOU do! FATHER take control. Its up to YOU to reclaim this weekend. Temper me. Tether me. Work in me. I continue to lift up Krl for her health concerns. I pray for Hag, for B., for Lillie, for Carol, for Michelle, for Aimee, for Ashlyn Kate, for Jennifer, for Tj, for Anna, for Jess, for Ed, for Tori, for those still recuperating from the accident. I ask YOUR healing and comfort for them. I pray for those grieving from loss. I pray especially for those grieving for John Paul. I ask YOUR comfort for all of these and I thank and praise YOU for the things JP accomplished and influenced. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. I lay it all at YOUR feet.

Ah! Saturday. 'Nuff said!

Lots going on in this old world. Millions the world over monitor the demise of the Pope's health. Others are totally oblivious to it as they are engrossed in the final four. Others are aware of it all, but continue to go through the motions of their daily life.

As most of you are aware I am not Catholic but I do spend a considerable amount of time every year in a community that is totally Catholic. I can only imagine what is going on with my friends there as their church leader gradually slips from this life.

I can remember the death of two previous Pope's and the selection of the current Pope. I am intrigued by the rituals of a Pope's death. The certification of his death, the calling out of his Christian name three times, the tapping on the forehead with a silver hammer, the destroying of the papal ring to prevent document forgery. The sealing of the papal apartment. The Holy See. It is all laid out.

In my opinion the Catholic Church lags far behind. It is filled with beautuful traditions and rituals but lingers in the "dark ages", yet John Paul II has been a remarkable leader. His travels and his ability to communicate have surpassed any previous Pope by far. He has moved his church forward and will be remembered as a kind, gentle man, a leader, a man of GOD. It will be interesting to watch as the world mourns his passing and the selection process unfolds for a new leader.

I nominate Padre Tom. (Detales June 17, 2004 archive).

As I was returning to Abilene Friday afternoon I was headed south on Highway 277 between N. 10th and Ambler when an accident occurred. Two vehicles going north had collided, one ended up in the median, the other jacknifed the trailer it was pulling and rolled over on its side. Several of us stopped to render aid. Luckily no one was seriously injured and the biggest hurdle was getting a door open so the occupants of the upset vehicle could clamber out! Once everyone was out and apparently O.K., I continued toward the house. This morning's Reporter-News stated that some illegal drugs were found and two people were arrested.

I am thankful that we are at the end of the week. While it was filled with variety it was a tough one. I am already looking at a full week in the coming one!

I find myself wishing for opportunity to attend "Stream in the Desert". One of these days!

FATHER thank YOU for the blessings I enjoy. YOU are good to me. I pray for a good weekend. I pray for good R & R. I pray for Krl, for her health. I ask that YOU get us to Monday when her doctor will be back. I pray for healing for Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Jennifer, Tj, Anna, Jess, and those continuing to recovery from their injuries. I pray for comfort for John Paul. I pray for comfort for those grieving. I pray for renewal for those of us finding ourselves spiritually bankrupt. I pray for our spiritual family and for our leaders. Thank YOU for loving me!

TGIF!

I am sapped. Drained. Empty. Void.

This week has been difficult, not because of work but a combination of work and not feeling quite up to snuff. It seems as though I can't get over this spring cold. I am back to the head sloshing, feverish chills, viewing myself from out of body! Yuk!

I did the trek to the metroplex early yesterday morning. I was back and had my eight hours in by noon. Of course that didn't necessarily mean I was done for the day. Upside today is if I cash in on my comp time it could be a short day! We will see.

Sunday begins daylight savings time. Not necessarily one of my favorite things. Having grown up on the farm it made it seem like really really long days. Who wanted to go out on a date after dark? What remained open after dark? DST fits city living much better than rural areas. Eight to fivers love it! DST almost single handedly killed the drive in movie industry! The best thing about DST is when it is over we get that hour back!

I am reading a book, one of the "chicken soup for the ..." series. I didn't realize there were so many variations of chicken soup. This book is filled with individuals stories of acts of kindness, triumph, and tragedy. While it is not my standard read, it has been good. Many times it seems like you get a small tidbit that makes a lasting impression. My favorite in this book so far has been this, "Never try to put a question mark where GOD has put a period".

FATHER I thank YOU for getting me to this point in the week. I ask for YOUR continued help to finish it out. I ask for relief from my cold, relief for Krl's back and her other ailments. I continue to pray for healing for Hag, B., Lillie, Carol, Michelle, Aimee, Jennifer, Ashlyn Kate, Tj, Anna, Jess, and those injured in the accident. I pray for comfort for those who are grieving. I pray for those of us who are at crossroads in our spiritual journey. I pray for our spiritual family and our leaders. YOU are my rock!