Work reconnaissance.

That is how I can best describe my Thursday. I began with a short wish list of parts needed for the last company truck returned to the yard. Of five items, only one is essential for safe operation, two are outwardly cosmetic, two are driver conveniences with inside cosmetic benefit. Of course, the dealer had none of the above. Having traveled down this road before I know not to just order. A person had better price and then make a decision. Hazard lights (4-way flashers) rocker switch $52.00. Radiator grill chrome trim $58.00. Rear frame cross-member $189.00. Cup holder $89.00 (you must supply your own cup, drink not included). Ash tray $74.00 (cigarettes extra). I ordered three of the five items totaling $299.00. Of course we had to haggle about freight. I cut the parts man short and told him I was not in a hurry, put them on a stock order. I was totally shocked that the two plastic pieces were so outrageously priced. I guess I will plan an excursion to a truck wrecking yard.

Since I had no parts to repair trucks with, I changed plans and circled by the house. When I arrived there Krl was getting her makeup on. I had forgotten, but both of us had taken the last of our prescription medicines and Dr. Mackie had warned us that he could not issue additional meds without seeing us. Nothing like a relaxing two and a half hours in the doctor's office. Actually, I had a new American Classifieds, right off the press. Krl and I sat in the waiting room for about forty-five minutes before we went back. The rest of our time there was with Dr. Mackie. He has an excellent ability to listen (which is something our last doctor didn't have). When we walked out, we had eight 'scripts. Six for Krl and two for me for a full year's worth of med's! I guess we made a pretty good deal with the one time concentrated time investment.

I know we are pestering our insurance agent. He had told us that our new medical insurance was going in effect May 1. So far we have no cards and no policy which means we had to pay for the doctor visit and the 'scripts. There goes the budget! $150.00 for the doctor's office and $393.00 for the 'scripts! Dang! The agent told us to keep the receipts and we can send them in for reimbursement. I think I may get my reimbursement from the agent and he can deal with the insurance.

Krl was in a mood yesterday. A mood to get things done. There was a guy who was needing work and she hired him to do the lawn weekly until we tell him different. Actually he does it all, flowerbeds, shrubs, trees. Everything! I would rather give a person a job than give a person a dollar. I think a job gives a sense of self worth. Lots of times money takes away a sense of worth and instills a sense of hopelessness. Krl's other accomplishment was hiring someone to house sit when we take our trip later this summer.

My Friday is pretty much an open book. I have two goals for the day. I plan to purchase a new mouse pad. The old mouse pad needs remodeling. Secondly, Blacksheep 2 comes out of the shop this afternoon. I may even be able to get by the 'burger for lunch because Krl and a friend have lunch plans.

The only additional task I hope to accomplish is getting a repair invoice to the compress at Sweetwater.

Cinco De Mayo! Sounds like a reason to order a margarita to me!

Let's git 'er done!

Be the real deal.

FATHER, renew me.