Monday: Found furniture polish and dusted, cleaned, polished dresser, nightstand, and bookcases in bedroom. Went to storage area and brought back rest of long boxes and some of the cardboard storage units that I use for TShirts and socks and the bakers rack. Now have a place for purse and keys by the door and not on the washer/dryer. Using an over the door hook to hang up jacket, since no coat closet.
Couldn't fall asleep. Listened to Tranquility CD twice and still awake. Got up sent email with ideal home to Michele. Puttered around a little. Read some. Eventually back to bed and even longer eventually slept some. There were critters underneath bathroom making all kinds of noise - chewing/clawing/claws on floor. Didn't help trying to get to sleep. Sent message to landlord. He had mentioned a problem with mice and leaving out bait that kills them by dehydration.
Tuesday: moved long boxes from garage to spare bedroom, opened a couple and found decorative bed pillows, bedroom lamps, and some hangers. I took cardboard and plastic to storage unit, opened a box there...found four of Mary Morgan books, stuffed animals, blue butterfly, wind chimes. Received Twilight Breaking Dawn calendar from Staci Moore. Currently in living room, 1 February the calendars will trade places. Broke a light bulb, so had to go to Walmart for cleaning stuff. After dinner started in on organizing kitchen. I've been delaying making all those little decision as to what goes where. Finally yelled loud enough in head "it doesn't have to stay there forever" to make some headway.
Landlord did come over and put out more bait in the crawl space. Less noise from critters. Hopefully one more night and no noise.
Wednesday: got up about 0230hrs to see the eclipse, missed seeing the moon rise. Looked out and partly cloudy, so figured stay up and see if stays clear enough to see. Found the Griffith Observatory site with live stream. With the window like they are, I could stay inside and see moon. Did step outside every so often to look up. Found my good binoculars and helped. About a quarter of way into eclipse the clouds became pretty thick and constant, could only see a shiny spot where moon was. Managed to stay up until a little into totality and decided to go back to bed.
Up late, got ready for appointment with realtor. Saw three places. One was zoned commercial, home built 1917. Decent shape. One in Parkwood, the gardens are intimidating, I would have to hire a gardener. The third was in Henericks, nice but curved driveway to garage and not attached, the way I back up, there would be problems.
Instead of nap on Tuesday before getting up for eclipse, took a nap today. Then worked on kitchen. Slowly getting stuff washed and put away in hopefully reasonable place.
31 January 2018
30 January 2018
Review of Quest of a Warrior by Mary Morgan
I met Mary Morgan at the Pleasanton Highland Games in 2017. Had a lovely conversation with her about her books, Scottish and Irish mythology, and Twilight. There are dragons in her stories so of course I bought all I could. So finally a year and half later I read one - Quest of a Warrior, Legends of the Fenian Warriors, Book 1.
Very enjoyable read. Not easy to stop reading and attend to sleep or other things. Good descriptions with enough detail to get clear picture in mind. There are things to be discovered and mysteries to be solved. There is passion and confusion. And being a romance novel there is love.
Ivy inherits her uncle's bookstore in Ireland with some conditions. She didn't know she had an uncle, so she is a bit confused with the welcome she gets as the town folk know her. She gets some help from the pub's owners. And then Conn arrives as handy man to fix up the cottage home that comes with the bookstore. There is trouble from a neighbor that wants the land and bookstore. Some secrets are revealed, misunderstandings and consequences happen. Figured there would be an happy ever after ending, but rocky road to get there. I look forward to reading her other books.
Very enjoyable read. Not easy to stop reading and attend to sleep or other things. Good descriptions with enough detail to get clear picture in mind. There are things to be discovered and mysteries to be solved. There is passion and confusion. And being a romance novel there is love.
Ivy inherits her uncle's bookstore in Ireland with some conditions. She didn't know she had an uncle, so she is a bit confused with the welcome she gets as the town folk know her. She gets some help from the pub's owners. And then Conn arrives as handy man to fix up the cottage home that comes with the bookstore. There is trouble from a neighbor that wants the land and bookstore. Some secrets are revealed, misunderstandings and consequences happen. Figured there would be an happy ever after ending, but rocky road to get there. I look forward to reading her other books.
28 January 2018
25 to 28 Jan 18 OPA, more moving
Thursday: It got cold last night, car was all iced up. Loaded up car with most of what left in the motel room. Had breakfast and then trip to RH [rental home] and return for last bit, the cold stuff and hang up clothes. All checked out about 1000hrs. Kimberly was the front desk clerk. Thanked her for putting in good word with her father and all.
Started going through boxes and putting things away. Found list of what was in numbered boxes to find air mattress. Tried out the floor, not so comfortable. Cable man arrived right at 1400hrs as scheduled. Don't know exactly where the TV is in storage area, but have cable ready for it and also internet wifi network set up. Nice and secure with Abby Weyr name! More comfortable doing banking and stuff. Sister Tamco came over with the air pump while cable man here. Great timing. Pump worked great. Haven't tried the air mattress yet.
Had early dinner at Applebee's then to storage area for a load - small tables, wide bookcase/table, down comforter and hang up clothes. Second load was some of the long file boxes - clothes, sheets, towels. Very glad the metal folding chair came with me in car. Only chair have right now. Not sure the rocker or any of the dinning room chairs would fit in my car. Have to wait until Saturday. Nice to find the warm fuzzy blanket from Dawn to use with cold metal chair.
Took care of some Synergy Financial business that actually got yesterday, but otherwise engaged. Now ready for bed and not yet 2100hrs. Distracted myself from bed with looking at Reator.com site for ideas of what available and how much. A five bedroom three bath home is back on market, couple of weeks ago it was pending. Wonder what the story is there.
Friday: The air mattress was better than the floor, but still hard to get to floor and up again. Stayed in bed a bit trying out different layouts in my head. Want to know where the bed and dresser go so the helpers on Saturday aren't moving things more than once. Hard to wait for Saturday. Did shopping - Grocery Outlet, Costco, Walmart - for basics. Found a red microwave at Walmart...go with my red Breaking Dawn 2 blanket I won at auction. All but one kitchen trash can have lids...don't want one with something to break or can't toss something right into it. Good start of things.
Saturday: Up and deflated the air mattress! get my own bed today with new mattress and new pillow. Took a shower in master bath...the sprayer is too high, hits me in face and spray is too fine, don't feel rinsed off. I got to area early. I was first of three people to get truck at 0900hrs. The others hadn't even shown up yet. Three men from church had arrived. Got the chairs out of the 07 side and a couple of kitchen boxes. Then to 44 side and bed items and whatever else find, hopefully TV.
The boxes had been put so edge tipped off of pallet and blocked raising the door. Able to raise door enough to reach in and move the items. One stack did almost tumble out. Found the three bed boxes, dresser, and one night stand. Found some other padded items, not exactly sure what they might be. Did not find the TV. Did not see it specifically when they unloaded truck to keep it aside to find easily. Truck was about half full, but figured enough of necessities for the rental.
The men were very helpful...one moved truck to back it in...not something I was willing to do. Put the boxes in garage by door, brought in one mattress box, it was the old one, so to the other room it went. Then the base with drawers toward the dresser. Top of base was very dusty. Found the new slats and mattress and onto base. Yea! my bed is set up! They unwrapped the dresser and night stand and put them in bedroom. Left the rest for me to have late Christmas unwrapping. I returned the truck about 1045hrs, about 6 miles.
Unwrapping was fun. Found my old trunk, old bookcase, microwave and TV stands, one floor lamp, dinning room table and the four chairs, my rocking chair, desk chair, 2step step stool, step bookcase, and one folding bookcase. Basics along with the smaller tables and stuff I brought over. Be nice to find either the lingerie chest of drawers or the old four drawer one. In meantime I will just use the plastic clear bins.
Tipped mattress and slats off to dust off the base, interesting getting them back on. The slats don't want to stay in place, they sliding around. Hmm...carpet tape it in place? put nails or wood bumpers? Hope I don't slide off in middle of night toss and turning as I do. Didn't have that problem with old slats.
Went to Safeway after all the unwrapping done. Found Amy's gluten and dairy free mac & cheese!!! so happy to have my comfort food again. They also have cashew milk yogurt and got some of that with the few flavors Walmart has of almond milk yogurt. Picked up a turkey breast, no whole roasted chicken available, just quarters. hmm... Still kinda in simple stage of kitchen usage until find all the usual utensils.
Took a shower in other bath and now so good either. Then found nice nightgown to wear. In bed before 2100hrs, put on the tranquility CD to help clear mind. Woke about 2300hrs, no power, then came on....can't leave the clock blinking all night so got up and adjusted all the clocks. Back in bed by 2330hrs and sleep soon after.
Sunday: woke up a few times during night as usual and right back to sleep. Up and at 'em at 0730hrs. No shower since took one last night. Light breakfast and off to special regional stake conference. First half hour was local, one speaker from stake maybe, special musical number, then wait until 0930hrs for live feed from Salt Lake. Four speakers. Good talks. Home to do laundry and get some organizing done. Emptied four boxes, found some things looking for. Eventually fixed dinner - canned soup with added turkey. Then sit and write this as let dinner settle.
Slow steady progress being made. God is great, life is good.
Started going through boxes and putting things away. Found list of what was in numbered boxes to find air mattress. Tried out the floor, not so comfortable. Cable man arrived right at 1400hrs as scheduled. Don't know exactly where the TV is in storage area, but have cable ready for it and also internet wifi network set up. Nice and secure with Abby Weyr name! More comfortable doing banking and stuff. Sister Tamco came over with the air pump while cable man here. Great timing. Pump worked great. Haven't tried the air mattress yet.
Had early dinner at Applebee's then to storage area for a load - small tables, wide bookcase/table, down comforter and hang up clothes. Second load was some of the long file boxes - clothes, sheets, towels. Very glad the metal folding chair came with me in car. Only chair have right now. Not sure the rocker or any of the dinning room chairs would fit in my car. Have to wait until Saturday. Nice to find the warm fuzzy blanket from Dawn to use with cold metal chair.
Took care of some Synergy Financial business that actually got yesterday, but otherwise engaged. Now ready for bed and not yet 2100hrs. Distracted myself from bed with looking at Reator.com site for ideas of what available and how much. A five bedroom three bath home is back on market, couple of weeks ago it was pending. Wonder what the story is there.
Friday: The air mattress was better than the floor, but still hard to get to floor and up again. Stayed in bed a bit trying out different layouts in my head. Want to know where the bed and dresser go so the helpers on Saturday aren't moving things more than once. Hard to wait for Saturday. Did shopping - Grocery Outlet, Costco, Walmart - for basics. Found a red microwave at Walmart...go with my red Breaking Dawn 2 blanket I won at auction. All but one kitchen trash can have lids...don't want one with something to break or can't toss something right into it. Good start of things.
Saturday: Up and deflated the air mattress! get my own bed today with new mattress and new pillow. Took a shower in master bath...the sprayer is too high, hits me in face and spray is too fine, don't feel rinsed off. I got to area early. I was first of three people to get truck at 0900hrs. The others hadn't even shown up yet. Three men from church had arrived. Got the chairs out of the 07 side and a couple of kitchen boxes. Then to 44 side and bed items and whatever else find, hopefully TV.
The boxes had been put so edge tipped off of pallet and blocked raising the door. Able to raise door enough to reach in and move the items. One stack did almost tumble out. Found the three bed boxes, dresser, and one night stand. Found some other padded items, not exactly sure what they might be. Did not find the TV. Did not see it specifically when they unloaded truck to keep it aside to find easily. Truck was about half full, but figured enough of necessities for the rental.
The men were very helpful...one moved truck to back it in...not something I was willing to do. Put the boxes in garage by door, brought in one mattress box, it was the old one, so to the other room it went. Then the base with drawers toward the dresser. Top of base was very dusty. Found the new slats and mattress and onto base. Yea! my bed is set up! They unwrapped the dresser and night stand and put them in bedroom. Left the rest for me to have late Christmas unwrapping. I returned the truck about 1045hrs, about 6 miles.
Unwrapping was fun. Found my old trunk, old bookcase, microwave and TV stands, one floor lamp, dinning room table and the four chairs, my rocking chair, desk chair, 2step step stool, step bookcase, and one folding bookcase. Basics along with the smaller tables and stuff I brought over. Be nice to find either the lingerie chest of drawers or the old four drawer one. In meantime I will just use the plastic clear bins.
Tipped mattress and slats off to dust off the base, interesting getting them back on. The slats don't want to stay in place, they sliding around. Hmm...carpet tape it in place? put nails or wood bumpers? Hope I don't slide off in middle of night toss and turning as I do. Didn't have that problem with old slats.
Went to Safeway after all the unwrapping done. Found Amy's gluten and dairy free mac & cheese!!! so happy to have my comfort food again. They also have cashew milk yogurt and got some of that with the few flavors Walmart has of almond milk yogurt. Picked up a turkey breast, no whole roasted chicken available, just quarters. hmm... Still kinda in simple stage of kitchen usage until find all the usual utensils.
Took a shower in other bath and now so good either. Then found nice nightgown to wear. In bed before 2100hrs, put on the tranquility CD to help clear mind. Woke about 2300hrs, no power, then came on....can't leave the clock blinking all night so got up and adjusted all the clocks. Back in bed by 2330hrs and sleep soon after.
Sunday: woke up a few times during night as usual and right back to sleep. Up and at 'em at 0730hrs. No shower since took one last night. Light breakfast and off to special regional stake conference. First half hour was local, one speaker from stake maybe, special musical number, then wait until 0930hrs for live feed from Salt Lake. Four speakers. Good talks. Home to do laundry and get some organizing done. Emptied four boxes, found some things looking for. Eventually fixed dinner - canned soup with added turkey. Then sit and write this as let dinner settle.
Slow steady progress being made. God is great, life is good.
24 January 2018
22 to 24 Jan 18 OPA short term rental moving
Monday:
Kimberly, one of the EconoLodge's front desk clerks, told me about her father ready to rent out a home. I called and talked with Ron early last week. It was more than want or need for short term rental and he wanted a year lease. Thanked him and said that I was looking to buy and didn't want that long. On Thursday she mentioned he was willing to go short term and would like to discuss it with me. I gave her my phone number and asked that he call me on Monday....Friday and Saturday were kinda full already.
I went to take a look at the home. Very nice, light colors, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, washer & dyer, attached 2 car plus garage. We talked about rent, utilities, and how long. Still more than want or need. Asked for time to sit and write out numbers and look at things. Went back to motel, saves about $200 a month over staying at EL. Called some kitchenette places, none available, even in Port Angeles. There were a couple of other rentals up the mountain available 1 Feb, another week. Paced in room, paced out to front desk and chatted some with Lauren, paced hallway, back to pacing in room. Seems the best deal I'm going to get right now. Feels good, no real doubts, just general reluctance to commit.
Tuesday:
Texted Ron first thing in the morning that I was agreeable to terms and we set up time to sign lease and give him money - first, last, security. Asked about moving some boxes from EC to garage, he was agreeable. I will move in on Thursday, but getting boxes there earlier will make check out time of 1100 hours easier to make.
Went to bank to get a bank check for the amount. Had to call CU to make sure the initial deposit check had cleared. Got that and off to exchange money for keys. Got checked out on equipment and started check list of condition and then got phone out to take pictures of 'discrepancies'. Unloaded first load of boxes, plastic totes.
Posted to FB about short term rental. Twilight family were main ones to respond. Called the Elder Quorum President to arrange for help Saturday morning to move bed parts and maybe dressers. Master bedroom and kitchen are the two important areas to actually move to the rental.
If I have all the stuff at rental, I will work on cleaning up and organizing that stuff rather than finding permanent home. I am getting better at multi-tasking, but really tend to concentrate on one task at a time, one step at a time.
Wednesday:
Up and checked voice messages, found one from yesterday. No indication that one was left on 'home' page. ??? Texted back...Relief Society president wants to visit. Sent text to Gwen about moving, she reminded me of free soup/salad at St Luke today. Loaded up car after breakfast.
Went to storage unit after unloaded car. Uncovered two small tables, medium size folding table, and a folding bookcase or table. The four dining room chairs, rocking chair, and desk chair are obvious even all wrapped up. Didn't see the TV. The beds and other furniture is at the other end of unit. I didn't try opening that door, not sure things aren't leaning against the door and might fall out when open it.
The tables were kinda fun to unwrap, kinda like Christmas present not knowing what is inside. Went to the soup/salad lunch. Nice meal. Chatted with Gwen after her playing for us. Loaded up car again and napped before RS presidency meeting. Nice to meet them and chat some. Then off to unload car at rental. Then Wave to get internet and TV set up. Finally dinner at HWY 101 Diner, good meal. Thanked Crystal before left on last load. Jean was at desk when came back. Chatted over an hour - music, differences in homes in different places, etc. Eventually to room and pack up remaining items. Just about ready to leave.
Kimberly, one of the EconoLodge's front desk clerks, told me about her father ready to rent out a home. I called and talked with Ron early last week. It was more than want or need for short term rental and he wanted a year lease. Thanked him and said that I was looking to buy and didn't want that long. On Thursday she mentioned he was willing to go short term and would like to discuss it with me. I gave her my phone number and asked that he call me on Monday....Friday and Saturday were kinda full already.
I went to take a look at the home. Very nice, light colors, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, washer & dyer, attached 2 car plus garage. We talked about rent, utilities, and how long. Still more than want or need. Asked for time to sit and write out numbers and look at things. Went back to motel, saves about $200 a month over staying at EL. Called some kitchenette places, none available, even in Port Angeles. There were a couple of other rentals up the mountain available 1 Feb, another week. Paced in room, paced out to front desk and chatted some with Lauren, paced hallway, back to pacing in room. Seems the best deal I'm going to get right now. Feels good, no real doubts, just general reluctance to commit.
Tuesday:
Texted Ron first thing in the morning that I was agreeable to terms and we set up time to sign lease and give him money - first, last, security. Asked about moving some boxes from EC to garage, he was agreeable. I will move in on Thursday, but getting boxes there earlier will make check out time of 1100 hours easier to make.
Went to bank to get a bank check for the amount. Had to call CU to make sure the initial deposit check had cleared. Got that and off to exchange money for keys. Got checked out on equipment and started check list of condition and then got phone out to take pictures of 'discrepancies'. Unloaded first load of boxes, plastic totes.
Posted to FB about short term rental. Twilight family were main ones to respond. Called the Elder Quorum President to arrange for help Saturday morning to move bed parts and maybe dressers. Master bedroom and kitchen are the two important areas to actually move to the rental.
If I have all the stuff at rental, I will work on cleaning up and organizing that stuff rather than finding permanent home. I am getting better at multi-tasking, but really tend to concentrate on one task at a time, one step at a time.
Wednesday:
Up and checked voice messages, found one from yesterday. No indication that one was left on 'home' page. ??? Texted back...Relief Society president wants to visit. Sent text to Gwen about moving, she reminded me of free soup/salad at St Luke today. Loaded up car after breakfast.
Went to storage unit after unloaded car. Uncovered two small tables, medium size folding table, and a folding bookcase or table. The four dining room chairs, rocking chair, and desk chair are obvious even all wrapped up. Didn't see the TV. The beds and other furniture is at the other end of unit. I didn't try opening that door, not sure things aren't leaning against the door and might fall out when open it.
The tables were kinda fun to unwrap, kinda like Christmas present not knowing what is inside. Went to the soup/salad lunch. Nice meal. Chatted with Gwen after her playing for us. Loaded up car again and napped before RS presidency meeting. Nice to meet them and chat some. Then off to unload car at rental. Then Wave to get internet and TV set up. Finally dinner at HWY 101 Diner, good meal. Thanked Crystal before left on last load. Jean was at desk when came back. Chatted over an hour - music, differences in homes in different places, etc. Eventually to room and pack up remaining items. Just about ready to leave.
22 January 2018
Sunday 21 Jan 18 OPA Household goods delivered
This will be the last single day post, unless something significant happens. I will be posting on Sunday and Wednesday evenings after this. There will be entries for each day, just collect a few before posting. Things are settling into a 'routine' of looking for new place. On to Sunday.
I had received a call on Friday or Saturday to clarify my availability on Sunday. Let them know got out of church and could be at storage area about 1300hrs. Then call from driver that they would be there about 1300hrs to 1400hrs. That works. I took change of clothes with me to church so I'd be more comfortable outside. I received a text Sunday morning before church confirming about 1-2pm.
After all my meetings, I changed clothes and off to storage area. I texted that I was there to driver. The weather was clear and partly sunny. He replied that they were delayed and in Seattle and be there about 1500hrs. They would call me 30 minutes out. That works.
It was pouring rain when I went back after 30 min warning call. They arrived and rain slowed down. They had a little problem turning into the entrance. Nice clear straight stretch to my unit once turned in. Got set up with the three men unloading and I checked off the numbers. They checked the size to figure out how high need to stack boxes. The metal case/clip board got COLD soon. I put both gloves on.
I don't always do numbers well verbally. The men were patient is reading off numbers of boxes and repeating as needed. When the longer file boxes started coming out, wanted them up by door. Those have sheets, towels, and clothes in them. One had winter clothes label, another clothes and slips. Those went into car. Somehow I did not keep a slip out to bring in suitcase.
They took one break and completed the unloading in about three (3) hours. I did not hear any strong colorful language from any of the three even when the cart got off track. There were two numbers not checked off and two duplicate numbers, mostly likely I didn't hear things correctly. The numbers were checked off on a number list. After all unloaded I needed to initial by each box on the list by room. They were able to back straight out and make the turn onto road. One car had to wait a few minutes for them to complete the turn.
When done about 1800hrs it was dark and cold, hands and feet needed warming. I had put a blanket around my shoulders to help keep back warm. I now have everything here in Washington with only my friends left in California. I stopped at QFC to get something to heat up in room microwave for dinner. It felt good to hold the hot food and warm hands.
Of the boxes that had been packed by Sharon, Craig, and I all but one survived in good shape. One out of 450+ items is pretty darn good in my opinion. A few boxes had one corner slightly crushed. One wheeled file drawer came up missing a wheel. Some items are so well wrapped, I wonder what they are. It will be like unwrapping Christmas presents eventually.
Since everything went into storage area, I didn't want them unwrapped so paid for the 'blankets'. I will wash and then donate to vet hospital, humane society, homeless.
Now to find place to put them in. Thank you for reading these posts.
publishing without a pre-reader, please be gentle with any corrections.
I had received a call on Friday or Saturday to clarify my availability on Sunday. Let them know got out of church and could be at storage area about 1300hrs. Then call from driver that they would be there about 1300hrs to 1400hrs. That works. I took change of clothes with me to church so I'd be more comfortable outside. I received a text Sunday morning before church confirming about 1-2pm.
After all my meetings, I changed clothes and off to storage area. I texted that I was there to driver. The weather was clear and partly sunny. He replied that they were delayed and in Seattle and be there about 1500hrs. They would call me 30 minutes out. That works.
It was pouring rain when I went back after 30 min warning call. They arrived and rain slowed down. They had a little problem turning into the entrance. Nice clear straight stretch to my unit once turned in. Got set up with the three men unloading and I checked off the numbers. They checked the size to figure out how high need to stack boxes. The metal case/clip board got COLD soon. I put both gloves on.
I don't always do numbers well verbally. The men were patient is reading off numbers of boxes and repeating as needed. When the longer file boxes started coming out, wanted them up by door. Those have sheets, towels, and clothes in them. One had winter clothes label, another clothes and slips. Those went into car. Somehow I did not keep a slip out to bring in suitcase.
They took one break and completed the unloading in about three (3) hours. I did not hear any strong colorful language from any of the three even when the cart got off track. There were two numbers not checked off and two duplicate numbers, mostly likely I didn't hear things correctly. The numbers were checked off on a number list. After all unloaded I needed to initial by each box on the list by room. They were able to back straight out and make the turn onto road. One car had to wait a few minutes for them to complete the turn.
When done about 1800hrs it was dark and cold, hands and feet needed warming. I had put a blanket around my shoulders to help keep back warm. I now have everything here in Washington with only my friends left in California. I stopped at QFC to get something to heat up in room microwave for dinner. It felt good to hold the hot food and warm hands.
Of the boxes that had been packed by Sharon, Craig, and I all but one survived in good shape. One out of 450+ items is pretty darn good in my opinion. A few boxes had one corner slightly crushed. One wheeled file drawer came up missing a wheel. Some items are so well wrapped, I wonder what they are. It will be like unwrapping Christmas presents eventually.
Since everything went into storage area, I didn't want them unwrapped so paid for the 'blankets'. I will wash and then donate to vet hospital, humane society, homeless.
Now to find place to put them in. Thank you for reading these posts.
publishing without a pre-reader, please be gentle with any corrections.
21 January 2018
Saturday 20 Jan 18 POA WST gathering
Busy couple of days. After sitting so much driving and all on Thursday and Friday, I had a slow start of day as needed more time with heating pad on back/hip area to help decrease the soreness. Sitting long time, ie more than an hour, causes the muscles to tighten up and be very upset at being in sitting position stretch. Do exercises/stretches to help, but really need to not sit for two hours driving.
Anyway had another long driving day to attend a Washington State Twilighters [WST] monthly gathering. This one was a birthday party for Melissa at Black Bear in Federal Way. Took my cameras, but decided to wait until on 104 to stop and take pictures. Before that was close enough to get to anytime. After that not much of interest along the road side. I didn't want to go too far afield since I did have some place to be at a certain time. Did stop at Silverdale and found the Trader Joe's. They were out of roasted unsalted sunflower seeds. Did get some of my favorite chocolate items. Rationing them. Along with some triple brewed ginger beer.
The Tacoma Narrows bridge is toll going eastbound direction. The bridge is high off the water, but high side railings prevents seeing much, which helped with my height anxiety. Google maps gave adequate directions to find the restaurant. There was a Michael's close by, went in and found some earring post backings to replace one lost from little owls earrings. Then to the restaurant and joined a couple of others already there. Turns out there were 17 scheduled to come. We had a private room for one long table.
There is much I could write about my Twilight family and maybe I will eventually. For now, I will say I've felt such a warm welcome for the move here from my Twilight friends/family. It was nice to feel and see that in person from the few that were there aware of my recent move. It was nice meeting some others that I didn't know beforehand.
I was my usual fairly quiet self with so many conversations going on and hard to hear any specific one. Dinner was good, it was served as I needed. However it turned out even though I pointed to the full serving size item, the waitress wrote down the smaller size. My grey hair gave my age away and so she assumed I wanted the smaller size. Not happy. She wanted to make it up with some take home, but long drive and small refrig that wasn't really a good option. Pie was also out being diabetic and gluten free. I politely turned it all down. Maybe should have given the pie to someone else?
The drive over and sitting for dinner took a toll. In major pain before Silverdale. Stopped and walked around Target. Stopped at 7 Cedars Resort/Casino for walk around the car a few times. Barely made it to motel without another stop. Thankfully Jean was at front desk and stopped, stood chatting for a bit after texting that I'd arrived back here ok. I did have to find my phone first....getting purse out of car it got turned over and phone fell out. So got some walking back and forth to car and lobby to find it.
It was a good day. It was worth the pain to go to the WST. I might not want to do it every week, but willing to do drive over that way every month or two at least. I was too sore to sit and prepare this last night. And now too sore to sit and do Sunday's post.
Anyway had another long driving day to attend a Washington State Twilighters [WST] monthly gathering. This one was a birthday party for Melissa at Black Bear in Federal Way. Took my cameras, but decided to wait until on 104 to stop and take pictures. Before that was close enough to get to anytime. After that not much of interest along the road side. I didn't want to go too far afield since I did have some place to be at a certain time. Did stop at Silverdale and found the Trader Joe's. They were out of roasted unsalted sunflower seeds. Did get some of my favorite chocolate items. Rationing them. Along with some triple brewed ginger beer.
The Tacoma Narrows bridge is toll going eastbound direction. The bridge is high off the water, but high side railings prevents seeing much, which helped with my height anxiety. Google maps gave adequate directions to find the restaurant. There was a Michael's close by, went in and found some earring post backings to replace one lost from little owls earrings. Then to the restaurant and joined a couple of others already there. Turns out there were 17 scheduled to come. We had a private room for one long table.
There is much I could write about my Twilight family and maybe I will eventually. For now, I will say I've felt such a warm welcome for the move here from my Twilight friends/family. It was nice to feel and see that in person from the few that were there aware of my recent move. It was nice meeting some others that I didn't know beforehand.
I was my usual fairly quiet self with so many conversations going on and hard to hear any specific one. Dinner was good, it was served as I needed. However it turned out even though I pointed to the full serving size item, the waitress wrote down the smaller size. My grey hair gave my age away and so she assumed I wanted the smaller size. Not happy. She wanted to make it up with some take home, but long drive and small refrig that wasn't really a good option. Pie was also out being diabetic and gluten free. I politely turned it all down. Maybe should have given the pie to someone else?
The drive over and sitting for dinner took a toll. In major pain before Silverdale. Stopped and walked around Target. Stopped at 7 Cedars Resort/Casino for walk around the car a few times. Barely made it to motel without another stop. Thankfully Jean was at front desk and stopped, stood chatting for a bit after texting that I'd arrived back here ok. I did have to find my phone first....getting purse out of car it got turned over and phone fell out. So got some walking back and forth to car and lobby to find it.
It was a good day. It was worth the pain to go to the WST. I might not want to do it every week, but willing to do drive over that way every month or two at least. I was too sore to sit and prepare this last night. And now too sore to sit and do Sunday's post.
19 January 2018
Friday 19 Jan 2018 OPA Seattle and Fiduciary visit
Big day with trip to Seattle via ferry to check out fiduciary agent. Dressed kinda nice as possible with limited wardrobe. Checked the map and only 1/2 mile from Seattle ferry terminal to building. There is an elevation change, uphill. Decided to walk it. I should get there early enough to have time to be slow and steady. There is a building with view area at top close by - turns out to be the same building.
It was a free ride from Bainbridge Island to Seattle. Pay to come back to Bainbridge. The trip is about 30 minutes. Our departure was delayed due to medical emergency on the car deck. Sat up front and watched the Seattle skyline appear.
Received a call about the household delivery before left, delivery on Sunday after church. Received a call shortly after boarding the ferry, could not hear, switched to text. Problem with card transaction. Once got to Seattle terminal called credit union. Not completely resolved. Did figure out a work around.
It was a slow steady walk uphill. Arrived about half hour early. They were ok with that. It was a good meeting. They answered questions, asked some for which I mostly had answers. Decided to hire them. Both of the men I spoke with were prior military, one aviation in Marine Corp. Have other things in common with both. Comfortable conversation.
Walk back to ferry terminal. I had bought return ticket before walking to meeting. Terminal was full. The ferry was unloading. A girl had jumped off the 1405 ferry and the schedule was about 30 minutes late. They had a busy day with the two emergencies on the one I came in on and the jumper. Chatted with a couple of other passengers. Rode in the front again. Too dark to see much.
Completed my first ferry ride to and from Seattle without incident.
It was a free ride from Bainbridge Island to Seattle. Pay to come back to Bainbridge. The trip is about 30 minutes. Our departure was delayed due to medical emergency on the car deck. Sat up front and watched the Seattle skyline appear.
Received a call about the household delivery before left, delivery on Sunday after church. Received a call shortly after boarding the ferry, could not hear, switched to text. Problem with card transaction. Once got to Seattle terminal called credit union. Not completely resolved. Did figure out a work around.
It was a slow steady walk uphill. Arrived about half hour early. They were ok with that. It was a good meeting. They answered questions, asked some for which I mostly had answers. Decided to hire them. Both of the men I spoke with were prior military, one aviation in Marine Corp. Have other things in common with both. Comfortable conversation.
Walk back to ferry terminal. I had bought return ticket before walking to meeting. Terminal was full. The ferry was unloading. A girl had jumped off the 1405 ferry and the schedule was about 30 minutes late. They had a busy day with the two emergencies on the one I came in on and the jumper. Chatted with a couple of other passengers. Rode in the front again. Too dark to see much.
Completed my first ferry ride to and from Seattle without incident.
Thursday 18 Jan 18 OPA read all night and then trial run to BI
Couldn't sleep last night so read some....never got sleepy until finished the book about 0500hrs. Good story. Need to get and read her other books. Mary Morgan, the one I read was Quest of a Warrior, Legends of the Fenian Warriors, book 1. I will write a separate review. Got about three hours of sleep and then up and at it.
Ran some general errands in morning. Decided to drive to Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal to check out the route and see what find out about the ferry ride. Help relieve some of the anxiety about trip on Friday.
Pleasant enough drive if really heavy rain at times. Lots of signs pointing to interesting places to eventually explore on the way. Parked the car and walked a little. At least know about the first part of trip. No rain while walking about.
Drove back about same time as will on Friday, twilight to dark. Not my favorite time of day to drive on familiar much less unfamiliar roads. Chatted with Jean at front desk about the adventures. Then to room to gather info into one place for meeting on Friday with fiduciary advisers in Seattle. 'Twas a long day after staying up all night and no afternoon nap.
Ran some general errands in morning. Decided to drive to Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal to check out the route and see what find out about the ferry ride. Help relieve some of the anxiety about trip on Friday.
Pleasant enough drive if really heavy rain at times. Lots of signs pointing to interesting places to eventually explore on the way. Parked the car and walked a little. At least know about the first part of trip. No rain while walking about.
Drove back about same time as will on Friday, twilight to dark. Not my favorite time of day to drive on familiar much less unfamiliar roads. Chatted with Jean at front desk about the adventures. Then to room to gather info into one place for meeting on Friday with fiduciary advisers in Seattle. 'Twas a long day after staying up all night and no afternoon nap.
17 January 2018
Wednesday 17 Jan 18 OPA New Bank, MHP, movers check lesson
Looked at Realtor.com before breakfast this morning. Adjusted filters and presentation to get closer to info wanted. Found a 'mobile home park' MHP in town with prices close to what I'm comfortable spending. Looked at couple of ones listed, nice looking, more manufactured home than mobile home. Drove by the area. Nice area, close to Safeway and Discovery Trail. The yards were mostly gravel, not the fancy and very pretty ones that are way too intimidating to this non-gardener. Looked like most are eight units on a cul-de-suc. Think I've found where I want to live. Now to find a suitable unit for sale.
With delivery of household goods need to get a cashiers check or money order for the balance. The delivery may be on Saturday. I will get a call the day before. Told them from the start that I would be in Seattle on Friday and not available to receive. Hopefully get a call on Friday for Saturday delivery.
Then had to look for ways to get a cashiers check. Santa Clara Credit union will not overnight check. Other account will only send to address of record, which isn't the motel address. I've waited too long to set up local bank account, funds to set up new account are on 7 to 10 day hold. The moving company charges the customer the 3.5% transaction fee for using credit card. Going to cost me bunch of money for taking too long to set up local bank account or letting moving company know too soon. More insufficient planning on my part. Live and learn, learn from my mistake.
Started raining hard while in bank setting up account. Checked into hair place close to bank, come back in 45 minutes. Went to WalMart for plastic totes to repack clothes in. Then storage office to get pallets into unit before Saturday. Those people are so nice and helpful. No cost for the pallets. Asked about downsizing unit when find place to put the furniture.
I feel blessed with the people I've met at All Safe Mini Storage and at the EconoLodge. All are so nice and helpful. When find a place permanent or a temporary one with kitchen, I will miss the ladies here at EconoLodge.
I usually let hair grow out over the winter, but it has gotten too shaggy even for me. Especially with the Washington State Twilighters gathering on Saturday and financial advisor meeting in Seattle in Friday. Figure might want to make a better first impression.
Lots of stuff done today. Have more to do before appointment on Friday. Opened up the CoolPix W100 package and started battery charge and then set it up. Progress.
With delivery of household goods need to get a cashiers check or money order for the balance. The delivery may be on Saturday. I will get a call the day before. Told them from the start that I would be in Seattle on Friday and not available to receive. Hopefully get a call on Friday for Saturday delivery.
Then had to look for ways to get a cashiers check. Santa Clara Credit union will not overnight check. Other account will only send to address of record, which isn't the motel address. I've waited too long to set up local bank account, funds to set up new account are on 7 to 10 day hold. The moving company charges the customer the 3.5% transaction fee for using credit card. Going to cost me bunch of money for taking too long to set up local bank account or letting moving company know too soon. More insufficient planning on my part. Live and learn, learn from my mistake.
Started raining hard while in bank setting up account. Checked into hair place close to bank, come back in 45 minutes. Went to WalMart for plastic totes to repack clothes in. Then storage office to get pallets into unit before Saturday. Those people are so nice and helpful. No cost for the pallets. Asked about downsizing unit when find place to put the furniture.
I feel blessed with the people I've met at All Safe Mini Storage and at the EconoLodge. All are so nice and helpful. When find a place permanent or a temporary one with kitchen, I will miss the ladies here at EconoLodge.
I usually let hair grow out over the winter, but it has gotten too shaggy even for me. Especially with the Washington State Twilighters gathering on Saturday and financial advisor meeting in Seattle in Friday. Figure might want to make a better first impression.
Lots of stuff done today. Have more to do before appointment on Friday. Opened up the CoolPix W100 package and started battery charge and then set it up. Progress.
16 January 2018
Tuesday 16 Jan 18 OPA Senior Info, New Camera
Tonight is TV night, so this is being written early. Slow start to the day. Eventually got out. First stop was WalMart to see what Nikon CoolPix they had...it was the waterproof, shock proof, and good for low temperature version. Bought it. Now to set up. The recurring problems with the older one, prompted this purchase. The idea of waterproof and ok at low temperature will be advantageous for here. When go to beach or hiking one less thing to be concerned with. It is smaller than the dSLR too, so easier to carry hiking.
Picked up two locks with one key for the storage unit. Decided to get some totes to repack clothes rather than file boxes.
Stopped at the Senior Info center. Got great info on health insurance plans available here. Also found out Kaiser is in Silverdale, only about 1hr away, closer than Oregon border cities. At least know available if need before find a place to live. Once find a place, I will have 60 days to sign up for new plan without a medical evaluation. Then find doctor to accept. Also picked up info on housing and other issues. When did I get old enough to be senior?
Had dinner at Paradise this evening. Very nice place. Good food. Slow start, better ending with this dinner.
Thank you to all the encouragement messages concerning my anxiety about going over to Seattle. Somewhat joking, I blame Virginia May's "What Drives Her" story. In that story Victoria's army attacks a ferry before going to Forks/La Push. It is best reason I came up with to explain why the anxiety over crossing the sound.
as usual no pre-reader all errors our mine, be gentle when inform me of mistakes.
Picked up two locks with one key for the storage unit. Decided to get some totes to repack clothes rather than file boxes.
Stopped at the Senior Info center. Got great info on health insurance plans available here. Also found out Kaiser is in Silverdale, only about 1hr away, closer than Oregon border cities. At least know available if need before find a place to live. Once find a place, I will have 60 days to sign up for new plan without a medical evaluation. Then find doctor to accept. Also picked up info on housing and other issues. When did I get old enough to be senior?
Had dinner at Paradise this evening. Very nice place. Good food. Slow start, better ending with this dinner.
Thank you to all the encouragement messages concerning my anxiety about going over to Seattle. Somewhat joking, I blame Virginia May's "What Drives Her" story. In that story Victoria's army attacks a ferry before going to Forks/La Push. It is best reason I came up with to explain why the anxiety over crossing the sound.
as usual no pre-reader all errors our mine, be gentle when inform me of mistakes.
15 January 2018
Monday 15 Jan 18 OPA Finally a camera day
Sunny day today and a holiday. Took off with DSLR to be creative. Headed West and took turn to Dungeness Park as my first stop. Heard some birds but didn't see any. Heard and saw through clouds a low flying aircraft. There is a small plane airport nearby. Chatted with a few folk as hiked the path to the spit and back. The hike pointed out I need to wear ankle braces when hiking and some trekking poles might be a good idea too. I did get a little cool across my shoulders. First time I've been cold here. Stopping to take pictures was the problem, as long as kept moving I was comfortable. Being at beach with constant wind it was chilly.
After that visit, turned back east and just drove and saw sign for the Olympic Game Farm, so headed there. Not what I expected. Kind of sad. The only free roaming animals are the hoofed mammals and birds. The bears had large area to roam too. The carnivores were in cages. Larger than the old fashion zoo cages, but not big enough to run in. The wolves were next to the rabbits. That is down right cruel in my opinion. The hoofed mammals came up to cars looking for bread that they sell for you to feed the animals - get up close and personal I guess. I didn't get any bread, so they weren't so happy with me. No car damage. Again that they would be so trained to come to cars expecting a handout was sad. The game farm in Arizona up by the Grand Canyon was better. Weren't as close to animals, but the animals were more natural. Between bright sun and wanting to keep the animals' muzzles out of my car, I didn't take many pictures.
Continued east on the road and found myself at Marlyn Nelson Park at Point Williams. Small park with boat ramp. Nice view of snow cover mountain to northeast. Forgot to mention my first pictures of the day were of the snow covered mountains to west and south nicely lit from sun.
Decided to call it a day and go back to motel for food and shower before going out this evening. That trip out was cancelled due to a couple of dizzy spells. Stayed away from car and did laundry instead.
After that visit, turned back east and just drove and saw sign for the Olympic Game Farm, so headed there. Not what I expected. Kind of sad. The only free roaming animals are the hoofed mammals and birds. The bears had large area to roam too. The carnivores were in cages. Larger than the old fashion zoo cages, but not big enough to run in. The wolves were next to the rabbits. That is down right cruel in my opinion. The hoofed mammals came up to cars looking for bread that they sell for you to feed the animals - get up close and personal I guess. I didn't get any bread, so they weren't so happy with me. No car damage. Again that they would be so trained to come to cars expecting a handout was sad. The game farm in Arizona up by the Grand Canyon was better. Weren't as close to animals, but the animals were more natural. Between bright sun and wanting to keep the animals' muzzles out of my car, I didn't take many pictures.
Continued east on the road and found myself at Marlyn Nelson Park at Point Williams. Small park with boat ramp. Nice view of snow cover mountain to northeast. Forgot to mention my first pictures of the day were of the snow covered mountains to west and south nicely lit from sun.
Decided to call it a day and go back to motel for food and shower before going out this evening. That trip out was cancelled due to a couple of dizzy spells. Stayed away from car and did laundry instead.
14 January 2018
Sunday 14 Jan 18 OPA Church, repacking
Woke up about 4am, back to bed about 6am, which should not have done. Arrived barely in time for church. This 9am start is hard to get use to. The Relief Society discussion was on Brother John C Pingree's Oct 2017 conference talk, "I Have a Work for Thee". There are enough RS sisters that we have one and half circles. There were name tags so can better learn names. Love that idea as I need verbal and visual reinforcement of names. Topic kind of appropriate for me right now. What am I suppose to be doing here with my fresh start of life?
After church it was time to work on repacking shipped boxes. Repacked seven boxes into more manageable file boxes with detailed list of contents. Found the extra supplements that I needed. Found the dirty clothes from packing up. Laundry tomorrow. Found all the various pairs of scissors that kept getting misplaced when packing.
Took a break for dinner and dessert was a treat found at Forage yesterday, milk chocolate honey pecans. Very tasty.
Had the TV on and sort of watched Vegas, nice to see Robert Urich again. Finished up watching NCIS:LA.
Exciting times. Thanks for reading. I'm not posting link on Facebook for each post, only if something significant. I maybe start combining days in one post.
13 January 2018
Saturday 13 Jan 18 OPA Retail therapy and weekly motel cottage
Woke up feeling a bit off, physically, and less so but slightly mentally and emotionally. Had breakfast and went back to bed for a few hours. Posted earlier comments on small decisions. Guess feeling a bit overwhelmed mentally.
Eventually got up and ready to venture forth. Thought I'd do some photo therapy. Ended up doing retail therapy instead.
First stop was Sequim RV Inn. They have weekly and monthly rates for small cottages with kitchen. No monthly ones available. Weekly ones are kinda small, would save money over EconoLodge, but....think about it I am good here until Wednesday at least.
Right ear lobe is infected and need a simple post that I can put in and leave in to sleep. Harder to find that thought. First stop was store 'birds of a feather'. Handcrafted soaps and other items. Found a nice locally made Christmas tree ornament, note on it for first winter here. Also some root beer hard candy.
Next stop was downtown Sequim stores. Parking is free, a very nice change. First stop was Field Notes, nice nature themed items. A place to look at once settled for some home decoration items.
Second was the Good Book store, going out of business. Nothing of interest there for me today. Then Forage, Gifts and Northwest Treasures and pay dirt. Wonderful store. Owner Theresa Rubens was there. Lots of neat items. Good local candies. Some interesting camping items. Local maps. Some cards with local images. Those racks were only half full. She is running a contest looking for more local images. Picked up info and passed along to two local Twilighters I know that take pictures, Estella and John, and maybe Katryna and Melissa. I will work on the wifi bridge for the old computer and see about submitting some images. No earrings, but lots of other things. She also has another store down a couple of doors that would have earring posts.
So on to Solar City's, Tesa Boutigue & Tanning Retreat. Another interesting place, but only earrings today. They had a bowl full of posts. Had fun looking at each. Some unique shapes and colors. Picked out five, then three, then one. Cute little owl in sterling silver.
Then to Applebee's for dinner. Ok, I know two dinners out and both at chain restaurants instead of local. After not feeling so good this morning after dinner last night wanted safe and simple. Good steak and baked potato dinner. Stopped at QFC for sunflower seeds on way to motel. Their bulk section was up and they now had roasted and unsalted sunflower seeds.
A good ending to a mixed day.
Eventually got up and ready to venture forth. Thought I'd do some photo therapy. Ended up doing retail therapy instead.
First stop was Sequim RV Inn. They have weekly and monthly rates for small cottages with kitchen. No monthly ones available. Weekly ones are kinda small, would save money over EconoLodge, but....think about it I am good here until Wednesday at least.
Right ear lobe is infected and need a simple post that I can put in and leave in to sleep. Harder to find that thought. First stop was store 'birds of a feather'. Handcrafted soaps and other items. Found a nice locally made Christmas tree ornament, note on it for first winter here. Also some root beer hard candy.
Next stop was downtown Sequim stores. Parking is free, a very nice change. First stop was Field Notes, nice nature themed items. A place to look at once settled for some home decoration items.
Second was the Good Book store, going out of business. Nothing of interest there for me today. Then Forage, Gifts and Northwest Treasures and pay dirt. Wonderful store. Owner Theresa Rubens was there. Lots of neat items. Good local candies. Some interesting camping items. Local maps. Some cards with local images. Those racks were only half full. She is running a contest looking for more local images. Picked up info and passed along to two local Twilighters I know that take pictures, Estella and John, and maybe Katryna and Melissa. I will work on the wifi bridge for the old computer and see about submitting some images. No earrings, but lots of other things. She also has another store down a couple of doors that would have earring posts.
So on to Solar City's, Tesa Boutigue & Tanning Retreat. Another interesting place, but only earrings today. They had a bowl full of posts. Had fun looking at each. Some unique shapes and colors. Picked out five, then three, then one. Cute little owl in sterling silver.
Then to Applebee's for dinner. Ok, I know two dinners out and both at chain restaurants instead of local. After not feeling so good this morning after dinner last night wanted safe and simple. Good steak and baked potato dinner. Stopped at QFC for sunflower seeds on way to motel. Their bulk section was up and they now had roasted and unsalted sunflower seeds.
A good ending to a mixed day.
Small decisions
Small decisions are harder. Big ones you can gather info and list pro/con and decide and pray for confirmation. Small ones...harder to gather info, pro and con not so clear, other things may impact the pro/con so harder to evaluate now and wonder if wait or not. And we've been told in modern scripture that some things are our decision to make.
I know I overthink things at times, maybe all the time. I know that some things won't matter in the long run. And still my anxiety kicks up a notch and flutter around a decision or sit nearly paralyzed just looking at it without making one. Know that most aren't cast in stone and can be changed. Maybe I should reread my own poem about change again.
This is where having a friend to talk with can help clarify the difference between the forest and the trees, preferable in person.
Moving has brought up lots of smaller decisions. Though they are a part of daily life. Today feeling a little off, physically and mentally. Got up, had breakfast and went back to bed for few hours. Time to get dressed and get out of room, do something simple like gas in the car, maybe drive to marina.
I know I overthink things at times, maybe all the time. I know that some things won't matter in the long run. And still my anxiety kicks up a notch and flutter around a decision or sit nearly paralyzed just looking at it without making one. Know that most aren't cast in stone and can be changed. Maybe I should reread my own poem about change again.
This is where having a friend to talk with can help clarify the difference between the forest and the trees, preferable in person.
Moving has brought up lots of smaller decisions. Though they are a part of daily life. Today feeling a little off, physically and mentally. Got up, had breakfast and went back to bed for few hours. Time to get dressed and get out of room, do something simple like gas in the car, maybe drive to marina.
12 January 2018
Friday 12 Jan OPA bird call wake up and storage unit
Happy Friday! Woke up and very soon after bird call practice started next door. It was an interesting thing to happen so soon after waking up. Fortunately not loud duck calls. I was not awake enough to recognize any birds even if I was all that familiar with bird calls.
Spent morning calling local self storage places. No open units, until one had two units of suitable size open. One place did not return my call, so went out to visit and ask in person. No open units. Not a wasted drive to Carlsburg. Nice little town area. Saw some interesting photo possibilities. Took the one unit that has easier access for 18 wheel truck.
The first month of storage with moving company is free, after that over $1,000/month for the amount I have. I'm still within first month. I had sent email asking what size storage unit I would need for all the household goods currently stored. The rent is $300/month saving over $700/month. Go me! The storage place will provide pallets to put the boxes on. With the damper weather here that is important with concrete floors.
Feels so good to have one thing checked off 'to do' list.
Did grocery shopping at Walmart and Safeway on way back to motel. Had dinner with Gwen and good conversation and then load of laundry once back at motel.
Spent morning calling local self storage places. No open units, until one had two units of suitable size open. One place did not return my call, so went out to visit and ask in person. No open units. Not a wasted drive to Carlsburg. Nice little town area. Saw some interesting photo possibilities. Took the one unit that has easier access for 18 wheel truck.
The first month of storage with moving company is free, after that over $1,000/month for the amount I have. I'm still within first month. I had sent email asking what size storage unit I would need for all the household goods currently stored. The rent is $300/month saving over $700/month. Go me! The storage place will provide pallets to put the boxes on. With the damper weather here that is important with concrete floors.
Feels so good to have one thing checked off 'to do' list.
Did grocery shopping at Walmart and Safeway on way back to motel. Had dinner with Gwen and good conversation and then load of laundry once back at motel.
11 January 2018
Thursday 11 Jan 2018 OPA Banks and frozen salad
Today was investigate banks day. There are four (4) local banks and no credit unions. My preference is a credit union to keep money local. There are a couple of national banks in Sequim. They were not a choice. One of the four is really more Western States regional. All four were friendly and helpful. Parking was a problem at two (2) of them. The regional one has the most extra features. They all have the same basic features. Decisions Decisions. The one with good adequate parking is close to the UPS store where I have my mail coming and will keep as long as in Sequim.
The refrig in room froze my last serving of salad. Asked to have the temp turned up. Need things cold not frozen in refrig part. The people here have been very helpful.
My laundry was dry this morning. Nice to have a good supply of clean silk thermals again. Washed the new socks and wore a pair today. Very nice. The new shoes are keeping feet warm and dry. It was raining today.
Thought about the condos saw yesterday. Getting clearer idea of what looking for, what willing to trade off for. The four plex one was very nicely laid out, but too far away and not really comfortable with the HOA dues.
Yesterday I went to movies for a break. Feeling very scattered or pulled in too many different directions. Need to make a decision to get one of major things taken care of. That is why looking at banks today. A simpler decision and something that needs to be done. Get one thing done and work on other things. Put away one of the 'pins' I am trying to juggle.
Writing these posts are helping me keep some focus. Almost like talking with someone about the various little issues on each topic. Kinda boring to read, kinda boring living through it and also kinda exciting. I am still happy about the move, still the right thing to have done. Looking forward to being more settled with residence and what to do with money and get on with fun explorations of my new territory.
Peace, joy and love to all.
The refrig in room froze my last serving of salad. Asked to have the temp turned up. Need things cold not frozen in refrig part. The people here have been very helpful.
My laundry was dry this morning. Nice to have a good supply of clean silk thermals again. Washed the new socks and wore a pair today. Very nice. The new shoes are keeping feet warm and dry. It was raining today.
Thought about the condos saw yesterday. Getting clearer idea of what looking for, what willing to trade off for. The four plex one was very nicely laid out, but too far away and not really comfortable with the HOA dues.
Yesterday I went to movies for a break. Feeling very scattered or pulled in too many different directions. Need to make a decision to get one of major things taken care of. That is why looking at banks today. A simpler decision and something that needs to be done. Get one thing done and work on other things. Put away one of the 'pins' I am trying to juggle.
Writing these posts are helping me keep some focus. Almost like talking with someone about the various little issues on each topic. Kinda boring to read, kinda boring living through it and also kinda exciting. I am still happy about the move, still the right thing to have done. Looking forward to being more settled with residence and what to do with money and get on with fun explorations of my new territory.
Peace, joy and love to all.
10 January 2018
Wednesday 10 Jan 18 OPA Banks, P&S camera, Condo visits, Star Wars
Appointment with realtor Michele in afternoon, so worked on researching local banks in morning and catching up some on friends' Facebook posts.
There are no credit unions in Sequim. I have been asking about banks to various people as I've gone about finding things. Looked on line at three different ones that are small local regional banks. One web site wasn't so easy to view, so that one is out.
Went out early for appointment to see what CostCo, Office Depot and Walmart have for small point and shoot digital camera to replace my sick one. CostCo has a Fuji water proof, cold temp proof one, Walmart has a slightly different model of my Nikon one. $10 difference in price. I am a Nikon girl, but that Fuji one is temping, water proof might be handy to have around here. Beach and river hiking not to mention the rain.
Met with Realtor Michele and looked at three different 'condos'. Two were nice, one had a really off putting room to me anyway. Nothing said buy me now.
After done visiting condos, went to Port Angeles Cinema to see Star Wars, the Last Jedi. The last movie I saw in San Jose, the first one here. Still think the birds are stupid addition, not as bad as JarJar, but almost. Needed a break and something different. Got lost trying to leave in the dark and never been there before. Mentioned that to Jean at front desk and she shook her head, yes it is a complicated set up. Need to visit during daylight and see how it is suppose to work.
This morning I found one of the desk clerks is moving and looking for boxes, so as I repack from shipping boxes to file boxes have a place for the shipped ones. Worked on couple of boxes after eating and while watching Nature and Nova on PBS. Now have two more file boxes repacked and contents listed.
While washer was going chatted with Jean at front desk and got more ideas on places to visit locally for good bird watching. Have cleaned items hanging on shower rod to dry, hope mostly dry by morning.
Time for bed and sleep. Pleasant dreams to all.
There are no credit unions in Sequim. I have been asking about banks to various people as I've gone about finding things. Looked on line at three different ones that are small local regional banks. One web site wasn't so easy to view, so that one is out.
Went out early for appointment to see what CostCo, Office Depot and Walmart have for small point and shoot digital camera to replace my sick one. CostCo has a Fuji water proof, cold temp proof one, Walmart has a slightly different model of my Nikon one. $10 difference in price. I am a Nikon girl, but that Fuji one is temping, water proof might be handy to have around here. Beach and river hiking not to mention the rain.
Met with Realtor Michele and looked at three different 'condos'. Two were nice, one had a really off putting room to me anyway. Nothing said buy me now.
After done visiting condos, went to Port Angeles Cinema to see Star Wars, the Last Jedi. The last movie I saw in San Jose, the first one here. Still think the birds are stupid addition, not as bad as JarJar, but almost. Needed a break and something different. Got lost trying to leave in the dark and never been there before. Mentioned that to Jean at front desk and she shook her head, yes it is a complicated set up. Need to visit during daylight and see how it is suppose to work.
This morning I found one of the desk clerks is moving and looking for boxes, so as I repack from shipping boxes to file boxes have a place for the shipped ones. Worked on couple of boxes after eating and while watching Nature and Nova on PBS. Now have two more file boxes repacked and contents listed.
While washer was going chatted with Jean at front desk and got more ideas on places to visit locally for good bird watching. Have cleaned items hanging on shower rod to dry, hope mostly dry by morning.
Time for bed and sleep. Pleasant dreams to all.
09 January 2018
Tuesday 9 Jan 18 OPA Shoes, repack
Late start to the day and it was a beautiful sunny start of the day. The point and shoot camera is acting up again. I had it checked out a couple of months ago and working ok sort of until last week. Too many of pictures I took as packing up weren't in focus, the screen would go black, and when turn it on ask to set up time zone. Sadly I think it is too sick to fix. And the memory card is hardly used. It is really nice to have handy, smaller than the D5100 and easier to use than phone camera.
Went to the shoe store recommended by Jean at front desk, Harrison's. Great service. As soon as said moved here from California he knew what I was looking for - shoes better suited to weather here than California, ie more water proof and better traction in wet. Tried a couple of different ones and got the first pair and then added some socks that are longer than usual and not yet knee high.
Next stop was auto parts store for winter car equipment, scraper/brush and squeegee. Needed squeegee this morning, lots of water on car. The water drops were kinda pretty on side mirror in reflecting the bright sun. But not so good for seeing things.
Stopped at the Vintage and introduced myself after all the work Betty did to get my application approved.
Got the second important card today - member of Shipley Center for seniors.
Had lunch at the Bear Diner as part of fundraiser for Sequim Warming Center. They don't have much in choice for gluten and dairy free food.
Watching the evening news, the worse part after major fires has happened - mud slides after all the rain that needed earlier to help prevent the fires. Sad.
While watched my programs this evening, repacked a couple of shipped boxes into standard file boxes. Easier to handle and made list of what is in the box. Need to number the boxes and list so can find stuff again. Extended my stay at EconoLodge for another week. The one short term place found yesterday was already leased.
Had phone interview with one of two financial services company recommended. Set up an appointment in Seattle on Friday 19 Jan. Figure out what to do with the extra money from sale of condo. How best to keep it safe and grow and last as long as possible since I seem to be staying around for a while longer.
Heard from my former neighbor that the kitchen has been removed from my old condo.
On that note, close this post.
Went to the shoe store recommended by Jean at front desk, Harrison's. Great service. As soon as said moved here from California he knew what I was looking for - shoes better suited to weather here than California, ie more water proof and better traction in wet. Tried a couple of different ones and got the first pair and then added some socks that are longer than usual and not yet knee high.
Next stop was auto parts store for winter car equipment, scraper/brush and squeegee. Needed squeegee this morning, lots of water on car. The water drops were kinda pretty on side mirror in reflecting the bright sun. But not so good for seeing things.
Stopped at the Vintage and introduced myself after all the work Betty did to get my application approved.
Got the second important card today - member of Shipley Center for seniors.
Had lunch at the Bear Diner as part of fundraiser for Sequim Warming Center. They don't have much in choice for gluten and dairy free food.
Watching the evening news, the worse part after major fires has happened - mud slides after all the rain that needed earlier to help prevent the fires. Sad.
While watched my programs this evening, repacked a couple of shipped boxes into standard file boxes. Easier to handle and made list of what is in the box. Need to number the boxes and list so can find stuff again. Extended my stay at EconoLodge for another week. The one short term place found yesterday was already leased.
Had phone interview with one of two financial services company recommended. Set up an appointment in Seattle on Friday 19 Jan. Figure out what to do with the extra money from sale of condo. How best to keep it safe and grow and last as long as possible since I seem to be staying around for a while longer.
Heard from my former neighbor that the kitchen has been removed from my old condo.
On that note, close this post.
08 January 2018
Monday 8 Jan 18 OPA, apartment hunting, library, correct path
Apartment hunting day after dropping off first batch of Christmas cards. There are some apartment buildings across from the post office. Office not open, but picked up a flyer and left message at phone number given. Called another one by a restaurant that came up twice in conversations.
I have the most important card in town now - library card. Limited use until provide some official mail with Sequim address.
Stopped at another senior apartment building, assisted living that I don't need yet. Another apartment complex was for disabled and other under served people.
Found the shoe store front desk lady mentioned, closed on Monday. Also a furniture store in that shopping area. One of first big purchases will be a recliner chair.
Came back to room and did some on line searching. Called about a couple of other places. One was a vacation home, but mostly already booked, March and May are only ones available. Another one looks promising with short term lease - not sure if that means month to month or like three months. The three months would work well if can't find month to month. Another was six month lease, upstairs unit open 9 Feb.
Talking to people about my faith to find the place Heavenly Father wants me in. Have to do my part in looking. Have to be responsible - just like Alice tells Bella in Eclipse after the battle and she wants to see Jacob, responsible to play out a part first and then do what she wants. Twilight and my LDS faith permeates everything.
I figure some people shake their heads at how this has all come about, at how careless I seem to be about things. Yes and no. I have faith that it will work out for the best. I have to do my part to best of my abilities. Not sure I did that in preparing for the movers. Which may be why it was so hectic and unorganized and messy. But it worked out, I am here. I am looking for more permanent than motel but less than one year lease. If not into the Vintage, buying my own place. Information has shown up when I needed it over the past couple of years to get me to this point. I have been richly blessed by a loving Heavenly Father and His Son. I am on the correct path. I don't know exactly where it will take me now that I am here. I will continue to follow His guidance.
I have the most important card in town now - library card. Limited use until provide some official mail with Sequim address.
Stopped at another senior apartment building, assisted living that I don't need yet. Another apartment complex was for disabled and other under served people.
Found the shoe store front desk lady mentioned, closed on Monday. Also a furniture store in that shopping area. One of first big purchases will be a recliner chair.
Came back to room and did some on line searching. Called about a couple of other places. One was a vacation home, but mostly already booked, March and May are only ones available. Another one looks promising with short term lease - not sure if that means month to month or like three months. The three months would work well if can't find month to month. Another was six month lease, upstairs unit open 9 Feb.
Talking to people about my faith to find the place Heavenly Father wants me in. Have to do my part in looking. Have to be responsible - just like Alice tells Bella in Eclipse after the battle and she wants to see Jacob, responsible to play out a part first and then do what she wants. Twilight and my LDS faith permeates everything.
I figure some people shake their heads at how this has all come about, at how careless I seem to be about things. Yes and no. I have faith that it will work out for the best. I have to do my part to best of my abilities. Not sure I did that in preparing for the movers. Which may be why it was so hectic and unorganized and messy. But it worked out, I am here. I am looking for more permanent than motel but less than one year lease. If not into the Vintage, buying my own place. Information has shown up when I needed it over the past couple of years to get me to this point. I have been richly blessed by a loving Heavenly Father and His Son. I am on the correct path. I don't know exactly where it will take me now that I am here. I will continue to follow His guidance.
07 January 2018
Sunday 7 Jan OPA Church, Christmas cards, financial plans
The Ward I am in here meets earlier than use to, going to need to set alarm. It is a big ward. People were friendly. I did wear my red puffy coat it was raining and cold. That coat is more water proof than my sweatsuit jacket. Wearing a skirt made it a bit cooler than with slacks. Unfortunately I packed and shipped my LuLaRue leggings and haven't found them in any boxes I've opened yet.
After church worked on getting old computer WiFi bridge set up. It worked, until took a break and couldn't get WiFi back. Not sure what/where the problem. The login for EconoLodge didn't come up...??? Tech Services of motel WiFi not available until Monday.
Decided to work on late Christmas cards after dinner. MTV was showing TWS movies and have that going on in background. BD 1 is currently on. The cards are so appropriate for my moving that just have to send out even if late.
Sent some emails to financial advisers contacted before leaving California to set up initial appointment. Hoping they have adviser here on Olympic Peninsula rather than going to 'main land' of Seattle area. With the Vintage application not approved, need to make some decisions sooner than would have. Long term rental or buy? If buy, how much on a mortgage? What to do with rest of proceeds of condo sale?? Read through the info on their web sites. Need to talk in person to see which is the best fit for me.
Time to kick back and watch the rest of Breaking Dawn 1 & 2.
Thank you for reading. No prereaders, so all grammar and spelling errors are mine, please be gentle when point them out.
06 January 2018
OPA Day 2 Office Depot, Condo, laundry
Saturday 6 Jan evening update. Rain off/on, temps in 40s, dressed for it and comfortable. Yesterday was groceries, today was Office Depot day. Found a reasonable priced WiFi bridge thing for old computer that has Windows 7 and pictures on it, so can start sharing pictures soon. Also got some file boxes to repack the shipped boxes - smaller and label contents better.
Yesterday my friend told me about a condo that was put on market today. Called and made appointment to see it today. Nice enough, but no tub and no other place to line dry clothes.
Realized yesterday that doing laundry was going to be different. Most of my clothes are cold wash and line dry. Space to line dry is limited in motel and most likely in any apartment I may get as temporary place.
It isn't the big stuff when move, it is the little stuff that gets changed and don't normally think about.
Found all my usual foods but one between Walmart, Safeway and QFC, Quality Food Center. Gave info to QFC and hopefully order.
The ladies at the front desk here, Jean and Crystal, are a wealth of information and very happy to share. Banking, cable/internet/phone, shoes, store for miscellaneous odd items. There is not a credit union in Sequim, one in Port Angeles and one in Port Townsend, but not Sequim. There is a smaller local bank.
Started opening shipped boxes ... found some needed items, including my moving Christmas cards. Those will be worked on tomorrow. Yes, they are really early [or moderately late depending on pov], but so appropriate for my moving.
Tomorrow is Church, earlier than use to so no more sleeping in. Getting settled in motel. Cloudy skies are very much more interesting than clear sunny ones. Step out and see the mountains most of the time so far and watch the clouds move and the light and shadow change.
Take care.
Yesterday my friend told me about a condo that was put on market today. Called and made appointment to see it today. Nice enough, but no tub and no other place to line dry clothes.
Realized yesterday that doing laundry was going to be different. Most of my clothes are cold wash and line dry. Space to line dry is limited in motel and most likely in any apartment I may get as temporary place.
It isn't the big stuff when move, it is the little stuff that gets changed and don't normally think about.
Found all my usual foods but one between Walmart, Safeway and QFC, Quality Food Center. Gave info to QFC and hopefully order.
The ladies at the front desk here, Jean and Crystal, are a wealth of information and very happy to share. Banking, cable/internet/phone, shoes, store for miscellaneous odd items. There is not a credit union in Sequim, one in Port Angeles and one in Port Townsend, but not Sequim. There is a smaller local bank.
Started opening shipped boxes ... found some needed items, including my moving Christmas cards. Those will be worked on tomorrow. Yes, they are really early [or moderately late depending on pov], but so appropriate for my moving.
Tomorrow is Church, earlier than use to so no more sleeping in. Getting settled in motel. Cloudy skies are very much more interesting than clear sunny ones. Step out and see the mountains most of the time so far and watch the clouds move and the light and shadow change.
Take care.
05 January 2018
End of OPA day 1
Found the post office, Safeway, Walmart, and Great Clips. Picked up mail at PMB, some Christmas cards were nice to see. Previous car and homeowners insurance cancellation notices, updated car in work. Walmart has some gluten free items and two flavors of dairy free yogurt. Safeway had more dairy free yogurt choices and dairy free cheese.
My friend contacted me with news of a condo just coming on the market. Have an appointment to see it tomorrow. From the info on listing, not so sure about it, but look at it to see and get an idea of market. Seller won't look at offers until 12 Jan anyway.
I spent the morning opening suitcases and organizing them. Too many socks and most are short ones and need knee high for here.
I have not yet been uncomfortable cold. Haven't yet used my big puffy coat. Hasn't really rained, so no real test of my temperature adaptability and if have warm enough cold weather clothing.
Was able to get a room reservation for Forever Twilight in Forks. Called Dew Drop Inn and asked about waiting list. They didn't have one, but started one. A couple of hours later, she called with a room cancellation on the ground floor, two beds and put me in. Works for me. Prefer Forks Motel or Pacific Inn due to walking to High School and Rainforest Arts Center. Also the Very Important Twilighter tickets went on sale today. Filled out form and mailing check. I will be a staff photographer again this year. [shaking my head that I apparently didn't learn to stop doing that last year] It is hard work going around to different events and trying to make sure take pictures of different people and not always the same ones. I love sharing the pictures!
Still have clean up room to be able to get to bed tonight. Things got spread out trying to organize.
being posted without prereader all mistakes are mine, please be gentle when letting me know.
My friend contacted me with news of a condo just coming on the market. Have an appointment to see it tomorrow. From the info on listing, not so sure about it, but look at it to see and get an idea of market. Seller won't look at offers until 12 Jan anyway.
I spent the morning opening suitcases and organizing them. Too many socks and most are short ones and need knee high for here.
I have not yet been uncomfortable cold. Haven't yet used my big puffy coat. Hasn't really rained, so no real test of my temperature adaptability and if have warm enough cold weather clothing.
Was able to get a room reservation for Forever Twilight in Forks. Called Dew Drop Inn and asked about waiting list. They didn't have one, but started one. A couple of hours later, she called with a room cancellation on the ground floor, two beds and put me in. Works for me. Prefer Forks Motel or Pacific Inn due to walking to High School and Rainforest Arts Center. Also the Very Important Twilighter tickets went on sale today. Filled out form and mailing check. I will be a staff photographer again this year. [shaking my head that I apparently didn't learn to stop doing that last year] It is hard work going around to different events and trying to make sure take pictures of different people and not always the same ones. I love sharing the pictures!
Still have clean up room to be able to get to bed tonight. Things got spread out trying to organize.
being posted without prereader all mistakes are mine, please be gentle when letting me know.
Welcome to OPA
Good morning! This is Day 1 of Olympic Peninsula Adventure. This blog will be a journal of my adventure moving here along with other things. There will be some back tracking of how this came to be, but for now moving forward.
Today was first day waking up here as hopefully new resident of Sequim Washington. Still iffy in that I don't have a permanent place to live so could end up in neighboring community. I am staying at the EconoLodge for at least a week. Didn't get up and going in time for first sunrise picture. Slept better than on trip up with my own pillow and added my comforter for the weight. [when make my TShirt quilt must look into weighted aspect.]
Today is day to pick up mail at the PMB I had arranged for before moving. Then some grocery shopping. Then dig into emails, text & PM for contact info sent me for financial advisers and real estate agents. With the application for apartment at the Vintage not approved, need to look at options - see if month to month rentals apartment available as look for more permanent rental or more likely place to buy. Throw in some time on the computer with pictures taken to share on SmugMug account or Facebook. Also need to look at storage unit here for household goods to be shipped to in couple of weeks if no residence found and for some of stuff that I shipped here as may need before access to household goods. I was not as prepared for movers as needed to be.
I may switch to posting in evening rather than morning with report of the daily activity. Thank you for coming along this adventure with me. Ask questions, comment below. Take care and have a great day.
Today was first day waking up here as hopefully new resident of Sequim Washington. Still iffy in that I don't have a permanent place to live so could end up in neighboring community. I am staying at the EconoLodge for at least a week. Didn't get up and going in time for first sunrise picture. Slept better than on trip up with my own pillow and added my comforter for the weight. [when make my TShirt quilt must look into weighted aspect.]
Today is day to pick up mail at the PMB I had arranged for before moving. Then some grocery shopping. Then dig into emails, text & PM for contact info sent me for financial advisers and real estate agents. With the application for apartment at the Vintage not approved, need to look at options - see if month to month rentals apartment available as look for more permanent rental or more likely place to buy. Throw in some time on the computer with pictures taken to share on SmugMug account or Facebook. Also need to look at storage unit here for household goods to be shipped to in couple of weeks if no residence found and for some of stuff that I shipped here as may need before access to household goods. I was not as prepared for movers as needed to be.
I may switch to posting in evening rather than morning with report of the daily activity. Thank you for coming along this adventure with me. Ask questions, comment below. Take care and have a great day.
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