Happy New Year

2008 has been great and we are looking forward to 2009 when I retire and we start our new life as full timers. I hope each of you have a safe new year and please don't drink and drive.

Today we were up at 8:30, this will change on the 5th as I have to go back to work, it will then be 6 am wake ups. Bacon and pancakes for breakfast then a last trip to TSC to pick up Bridget's last paycheck. Went by the bank and Sam's then Wal Mart. Stayed home the rest of the day watching football and movies.

We grilled out rib eyes, T-bones and New York strip steaks with green salad, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, green beans with cakes and pies for dessert. Bridget and I, Bridget's mom and dad (Bob and Marcy), Bridget's sister and her husband (Annie and Terry), my brother and his wife (Harold and Sandie) and my mom.

Fireworks have started going off around the neighborhoods and Nipper is starting to go crazy. She is our border collie and doesn't like fireworks or thunder.

Being in CST we get to see the ball fall at 11pm. Have a safe and happy new year.

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Lazy Day At Home

Got out of bed at 8:30 and had cereal for breakfast with coffee. Stayed at home most of the day, exception was to go to Ridgeland to get the tag for the van, current tag expired last month. I did get the deer meat cut up and frozen, I cut it into small friable pieces. Sandy made beef pot roast for supper with potatoes, carrots, and celery. We watched TV all day, football and movies.

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Health Insurance

Fred wakes up at 6 every morning, then they (He and Nipper) eat breakfast, do there business and go back to sleep. Finally rolled out of bed about 8:30 and made bacon and eggs for breakfast with coffee. After breakfast I went for a haircut and shave from the barber in Canton. We watched football and other TV shows and had leftovers for lunch. Bridget and I had a 2:30 appointment for health insurance for her. Her monthly premiums will be $240, not bad for the health problems she has. Back home with lasagna for dinner. Momma Mia on DVD after dinner.

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Quiet Day At Home

Got up at 8:30 to start breakfast, creamed eggs on toast with chipped beef. My dad would make this every Christmas for breakfast but he called it SOS, he was a Navy chief. Pretty much stayed home and watched football games. I did run up to the mall to get an extension ladder so I could fix the leaking skylight, that's done for now but the next rain will tell the tale.

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A Week With Mom

We are back at home. Left this morning heading to Byhalia, MS to my sisters house, my mom is living with her. My brother from Jacksonville, FL is staying at our house for a week, they will head back Friday or Saturday. We arrived at my sister's around 11:30 and unloaded the food and stuff. Cooking was going on and continued with the feed starting about 2 pm. Shortly after we arrived my brother from Arkansas arrived. This is the first time since my dad's funeral that all 4 kids were together with mom. We had a great visit and brought mom back with us, we will meet my sister in Grenada on Friday with mom. Bill and Tambra headed back to Arkansas about 3:30 with a 5 hour drive, we headed back home about 4 with a 3 hour drive.

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Busy Is All I Can Say

Started off at the mall 7-3, slow day by myself, about to head to lunch at noon when the 3-11 guy shows up. Since I had just talked with my brother from Florida and he was about 15 minutes away I asked Alan if he wanted to work my last 3 hours, he said that was fine with him. I left work heading to drop off the deer meat to have it processed then to the house. When I got home my brother and SIL were there as well as Bridget. She told me the body shop called and said the truck was ready to be picked up. We dropped off the rental and picked up the truck. When we got home from that my brother was hungry being on Eastern time zone. We headed out to Hamil's, it was closed so we drove to Brandon and ate at our favorite Mexican restaurant Aztec's. On our way back to the house we made a Walmart stop. Back at the house in the recliner.

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Merry Christmas To All

Merry Christmas to everyone, especially the RV-Dreams family. This morning started off with cooking, we had ham, carrot souffle, green beans, rolls, potato salad, green salad, pumpkin pie, apple pie, tea and soft drinks. The feeding started at noon. Bridget and I, Bob and Marcy, Annie and Terry were here to enjoy the feast. After eating I sat in my recliner and accidentally fell asleep and woke up to laughter from the dining room. Bridget, Annie, Bob and Marcy were playing spinner and were having a good time, seams that Terry had accidentally fell asleep too. After everyone left we took another nap and woke up to the phone ringing. It was my brother calling from Florida to tell us they would be leaving Jacksonville heading our way at 3:30 am and should arrive around noon. After talking with them the phone rang again, it was Annie calling to tell us Terry shot another 8 point buck in their front yard. We gathered up ice chests and headed out to Annie and Terry's to pick up the deer meat. I will take it in tomorrow to have it processed. Tomorrow will be busy, mall 7-3, deer processing, tag for the van, brother coming in. Annie, this is your reminder to send me the picture of the deer and Terry so I can post it.
The chat room has requested the carrot souffle recipe so here it is.


Carrot Souffle

1 lb carrots
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 Tbsp baking powder
1/3 Tbsp vanilla
1 Tbsp flour
2 eggs
5 Tbsp butter
Powdered sugar

Steam or boil carrots until extra soft, drain well. While carrots are warm, add sugar, baking powder and vanilla. Whip with mixer until smooth. Add flour and mix well. Whip eggs and add to mixture, add butter and continue mixing until well blended.
Pour mixture into baking dish about half full as the souffle will rise. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until the top is a light golden brown. Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

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Merry Christmas

From the FD, a few EMS calls, a stove fire and a wreck on the interstate with no injuries. Merry Christmas to all the readers of our blog. Santa will be making his rounds tonight so don't forget to go to bed early, unless of course you have not been good, then it won't matter. We had our family party at Bridget's parents house. Bridget and I, Bob and Marcy, Robert and Kelsey and Annie and Terry. Food was good, family time was better. I had to head back to the FD.

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Bridget's Mix-up

From the mall, 3-11 but may leave at 9, (stayed til 11) major work has been done. Slept in til 8:30, actually set the clock for 6 then after I got up I remembered I go in at 3pm but let the dogs out while I was up then back to bed. Bridget and I had lunch with Steve, Amy, Kay, Frank, and Mike from TSC, Bridget's old work place. I asked her when she was making the dressing to take up to my sisters Saturday, she said she was off Friday and would do it then. I reminded her she is off everyday. I laughed when she said that. I hope I don't forget when I stop working. It has been windy and cool, low 50's.

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More Fountain Pictures

More photos of the Italian Marble Fountain. Took these this morning, the weatherman's prediction of 41 didn't happen, made it to 35 from 23 when I got up this morning.



















We were outside most all of the day, setting up to install the clocks in the clock tower and working on the pumps and filters. Not much exciting, it was very cold today but I guess it is like that most everywhere. Tomorrow is the mall again from 7-3. Took a nap this afternoon.

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Cold Day

Bridget slept in as we had planned to cook at the FD. Menu was pancakes with maple syrup, eggs, bacon and sausage. Excellent breakfast with the non cooks cleaning up. It has been quiet with only a few EMS calls. We just finished playing hearts. The past few days have been in the mid to upper 70's but today struggled to get into the mid 40's with a current temp of 41 and will drop to a forecasted 23 degree tonight. I have the mall tomorrow and the high is 41, don't like those days with our work outside. Bridget's truck is suppose to be ready tomorrow or Tuesday.

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The Italian Marble Fountain

The Italian Marble Fountain at the mall, you can't see them but there are 4 hand carved horses in the bottom pool, each was carved from a single piece of marble in Italy along with the rest of the fountain. We had the unveiling at 10 am this morning. 1600 gallons of water are shot through 42 nozzles into the second pool, the top pool is filled by water running out of the top. The fountain is computerized so if the wind speed is above 6 mph it will go to half power (at half power in photo) and will shut down over 20 mph. Normal flow the water would be going into the second pool just above head height. It has been warm (70's) and windy all day. Bridget and Annie went grocery shopping and bummed out today. They usually hang out together when I am working on weekends. Bridget and I are going out to dinner with Kay and Bo tonight, she is feeling good enough to celebrate her last chemo treatment. May make chat later than normal.

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Eight Point

At the mall today 7-3, they are unveiling the Italian Fountain tomorrow morning at 10am. Cleanup today for tomorrow, blowing sidewalks and pressure washing. Annie's husband Terry shot an 8 point deer in their front yard, they live out in the country, next one he will give to me. One of the security guards was having medical problems so an ambulance was called, don't know if he went to the hospital or not, Bridget picked me up before he decided. The van was actually ready and drives great. We are back to a two car family.

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Getting The Van Back

Still foggy, finally warmed up into the 70's but will be back in the 40's first of next week. Slow at FD today, usual EMS calls and a smoke in a house, HVAC problems no fire. My brother and his wife will be up from Florida the day after Christmas and we will go up to my sisters that weekend then bring my mom back down with us to stay for the week. Instead of me calling them, they called me and said the van is ready so Bridget and I will pick it up tomorrow. Back to a two vehicle family even though it is for sale. Hopefully paid my property taxes for the last time today. Looking at ordering the trailer tires next week, Goodyear G114 LHT 215/75R17.5 LRH from the place Howard and Linda got theirs from.

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Foggy

With temps in the upper 40's/lower 50's and foggy again it was slow at the mall. It will be in the 70's tomorrow and Saturday, yeah. Took some stuff to Good Will when we got home, Bridget picked me up, the van will be ready Friday I hope. Just relaxing in my recliner.

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Meatloaf

Slow day at the mall, it is not crowded when it rains. This is an outside mall so rain keeps people away. The insurance company gave Bridget a hybrid Ford Escape as her rental. I called about the van and they say it will be ready tomorrow, we will see. Bridget is making meatloaf for dinner, can't wait. See you in chat.

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Body Shop

Slow day at the FD, this is good. Day started off at 70 degrees at 7:30 this morning, at this posting it is 47 degrees and dropping. Bridget dropped the truck off at the body shop this morning and we should get it back first of next week hopefully. The van is suppose to be ready tomorrow. The mall from 7-3 tomorrow.

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Work, Work, Work

Slept til 9 this morning, got up and had waffles and bacon again, I love waffles and bacon. After breakfast a quick shower then a stop at the grocery store for Bridget before going to the mall. Worked 11-7 at the mall, we run two people on Sunday but he left at 3p sick. I had leftovers from the family Christmas party that started at 4pm.

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Still One Car

Caught a ride home from FD with Nathan. I make waffles and Bridget make bacon for breakfast. Watched TV and played games on the laptop. Took a nap then headed to the Mall. Bridget dropped me off and will pick me up this evening at 11. It is still cold here.

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One Vehicle

We are down to one vehicle until Tuesday. I called about the van which was going to be ready today but turns out we will pick it up on Tuesday. They are not open on the weekend and I am at the FD Monday. Oh well, life goes on. We haven't had a call all day but we will see what the night brings. Bridget has been home all day cleaning out rooms and closets getting rid of junk.

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Cold Day

Cold, windy, rainy, sleety, snowy day at the mall. We lost power for about an hour and a half. Did I mention it was cold? It was along with the rain we had several calls for roof leaks. One of the downspouts had a problem and flooded the hallway and one of the stores. Shopvac and cleanup time. I was glad to see 3pm today. We took Marc's truck back as the van will be ready tomorrow.

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Chill'in

Last shift ended with 11 calls, none were weather related. As of now we are under a winter storm watch with rain changing over to snow tomorrow morning with 1-3 inches accumulation, we will see. I was off today and got my hair cut. No word on the transmission yet. I have been relaxing today. See you in chat.

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Bad Weather

The truck estimate was $4,196.91, wow. It didn't look that bad to me. 7 calls so far today with the bad weather just about here, I imagine we will not get much sleep tonight, but that's part of the job. It is raining right now with a temp of 70 degrees, high tomorrow is in the low 40's. See you in chat.

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The Van, Yeah...Not

For breakfast Bridget made me a ham and cheese omelet, it was tasty along with the orange juice. We were busy today at the mall with cleanup and hanging Christmas lights in trees. Bridget came by to get me at 3pm and we took the truck to the body shop so they could look at the truck and order parts. While there, the transmission shop called and said the van was ready. A transmission fuse plus labor, $93.33 total. What a relieve I thought. Bridget dropped me off and headed home, I went in and paid, hopped in the van and off I went... about 50 feet and that was it. I called Bridget and she headed back to get me. The mechanic hooked his computer to the van and drove it. It worked fine then finally it did it again, at first I thought I imagined the van stopped moving. The computer showed a problem with the torque converter. After he had replaced the fuse he did do a test drive and it worked fine for him and he apologized that he was unable to detect the other problem at that time. I told him not to worry about it and left the van again. The insurance adjuster will be he in the morning for the truck. Bridget will drop it off tomorrow and pick up a rental car. See you in chat.

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The Key

When I got off from the fire station, Marc, one of the FF's on my shift took me to his house and loaned me one of his many vehicles. Thanks Marc. I left Marc's in his Toyota Tundra heading to Troy's, another FF on my shift to pick up his key to the mall. There are 8 of us that work part time here at the mall. Got home at 9:30 but forgot to let Bridget know I was going by Troy's after I left Marc's. She started breakfast and it was ready at 9:00, whoops. So my breakfast was cold, creamed eggs on toast. Worked the mall, quiet slow day. About to head for the house for supper. See you in chat.

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Sick Fire Fighter

It has been quiet at the station today, we just got our first call of the shift. Nathan has cooked up a batch of crawfish bisque that was excellent but he did not get any of it. He is sick and has gone to the dorm to lay down. I work at the mall tomorrow and my key to get in the office is on the key chain in the van, I will have to figure out how to get in.

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Back Home

The last speaker finished at 11:45am, when I got back to the room Bridget had everything packed and ready to load. We were on the road by noon. We stopped in Eupora for lunch, it was good. When we got home we unloaded then headed off to the transmission shop, they test drove and had no idea so we left the van with them. They will start on it Monday and I will be using one of the fire fighters spare vehicle. When we left the tranny shop we went to pick up Fred and Nipper at the kennel. We are home but not for long, Bridget's office party is tonight. She has gone to a part time status for December and will work on getting the house reading to sell. See you after the party in chat.

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Full Day

Breakfast with Bridget in the lobby of the hotel. I had seminars all day so Bridget went shopping. We are going out to Outback for supper with some of the Chiefs and vendors. See you on chat.

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Made It To Tupelo

Thanks to Bill on chat I was able to hook my Treo650 to my laptop to download truck pictures.

Left the house around 10:30am heading to Tupelo for the Mid Winter Chiefs Conference. We took the Natchez Trace which is a very nice drive. Speed limit on the Trace is 50mph but I drove 54 which the police that passed us must be okay with. We stopped in Houston, MS for lunch at a soul food restaurant, it was very good. Soul food is basically food that is fried in lard, cooked with pork fat, there is nothing diet about soul food. The main cook was probably 75 years old and it was all from scratch including the sweet potato pie down to the hand rolled pie crust. We arrived about 1:30 to find out our room was on the top floor and would not be ready until 3pm so we went over to the conference center and registered for the conference. We piddled around and after getting checked in we chilled in the room. They have free wifi. Supper was at Tupelo Fire Equipment, we had catfish, coleslaw, hushpuppies, and FF's. We are back at the hotel continuing our chill schedule. Conference starts at 8:30am which I will be in all day. I think Bridget plans on going shopping tomorrow.

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The Van

Bridget is a little sore but okay. The other drivers insurance company has already called which is a good thing. We are heading to Tupelo, MS tomorrow for the Mid-Winter Chief's Conference and will be back Friday. Had the usual mall day with the boss going home sick early this morning. I had 8 people in the van (Has been nicknamed "meals on wheels" by Amy) heading to lunch at McB's, today was fried chicken, turnip greens, corn bread, mac and cheese and tea. After the mall I headed to Jackson to pick up a stationary bike for the IL's. From there to the house to take the dogs to the boarding kennel in Brandon. On the way it seams as if the transmission in the van is going out at 236,000 miles. Will get that checked when we get back from Tupelo. I will get pictures of the truck damage if I can remember to do it before it gets dark. We are going to see Four Christmases tonight, Bridget, Kay (she had here chemo yesterday), Nathan (Kay's DH), and Annie.

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My Day Off

Begins leaving the FD and not having to go to the mall. Stopped by the post office on my way home. Read blogs, went by the pharmacy for Bridget, went by Merle Norman for Bridget, washed the truck for Bridget, inspection sticker for Bridget, lunch with Bridget and Frank. While at home during my nap the phone rings and it is Bridget, she says she has been in an accident on her way home, says she was talking to Annie on the phone and was stopped in traffic and was hit from behind pushing the truck into the vehicle in front of her. Minor damage to the front vehicle, our truck is drivable, the other vehicle had to be towed. We are home now and will get estimates tomorrow.

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Fires

It has been quiet today, just a few EMS calls. I downloaded pictures to the Thankgiving day post, turns out they had an apartment fire while I was off and two vehicle fires, no pics of them. See you in chat.

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Mall Today

Busy at the mall today. Jumped off 3 cars, cleaned the water tank for the interactive fountain, cleaned out the filters on the fountain, repaired 2 roof leaks and the usual cleanup. The weather man said we would have rain in a.m. that would move out before noon. I got off at 3pm and it is still raining. I think we are just about out of leftovers, if not supper tonight should take care of them. See you in chat.

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Black Friday

I worked the mall from 7a-3p while Bridget and Annie shopped. I got off at 3p, they didn't get off until almost 5p. They did take a break to meet us for lunch at McB's. Directv has free games until Sunday so when I got home I started playing. Hard to believe but we had leftovers from Tday for supper. See you in chat.

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING

May your stuffing be tasty. May your turkey be plump. May your potatoes 'n gravy have nary a lump. May your yams be delicious. May your pies take the prize. May your Thanksgiving dinner stay off of your thighs. MAY YOU ALL HAVE A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!

I received this email from Annie and Terry and it says it all.

Fred and Nipper wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and ask that you please save the bones for them.

I took off Thanksgiving day from the FD and my shift had an apartment fire, here are some pictures.

Another Long Day

Mall 8-5 working on putting up Christmas lights. Headed to the in-laws to move the wifi to another location so the answering machine would work and also picked up a table for the guest tomorrow, expecting 16 people. Chopping of vegetables will begin tonight. Travel safely if you are traveling for Thanksgiving.

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Busy All Day

Left FD headed home to meet with the painters, just a few items to complete so hopefully tomorrow they will finish up. Headed to the mall, set up a 20' Christmas tree and other Christmas decorations and were busy the entire day. At 3p in headed down to Hazlehurst to pick up the tag for my mom's car, she will be down for Thanksgiving. Heading back from Hazlehurst I stopped off at the in-laws to set up their wii internet connection. Now in my recliner heading to chat.

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Meet The Painters

Quiet shift so far, I have to meet the painters at the house in the morning before going to the mall. They will need to paint the back door which they forgot.

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From The Mall Again

My help worked 11-3, says he had to leave so I will be finishing up this shift at 7p by myself, starting final rounds to make sure everything is done. See you in chat.

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From The Mall

Posting from the mall, the other guy that was going to work with me today called in sick so I am by myself. It is cold outside with a slight breeze. Bridget has added a bunch of songs to my playlist and I have no idea what she has added, most likely music from the 60's and 70's. I was in at 3 and will get off at 11p only to return tomorrow to work the 11a-7p shift.

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Got Nothing

Quiet day, 1 call so far. Nothing exciting to report.

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Busy Day Today

We were busy all day at the mall, the quarterly tenants lunch was today and we had to cleanup afterwords with the tables, chairs and trash. We also had the city inspector today so we could get our permanent certificate of occupancy. We have 2 more occupancies to clean out so he will return next week for the final inspection. That's about it, I'm in my recliner waiting for Bridget to get home. See you in chat.

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Water Heater

7a-3p at the mall today but the 3p-11p guy called in that his water heater busted and he would not be in tonight. I am staying over until the major work is completed, cleaning restrooms and garbage run. I should be out of here by 8p. May see you in chat.

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Cold Day

Right now it is 49 degrees. It has been cold all day with a slight breeze. Today we had our annual FD physicals, my cholesterol is below 200 which is good for me, this is from the help of 2 meds. Off meds it runs around 350. The mall is tomorrow from 7-3 as is the city's employee lunch. I will receive my 25 year pin then. See you in chat.

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Painting

Worked the mall 7-3. When I got off I had to run to south Jackson to pick up my weedeater. The painters were at the house when I got home. They are painting the outside for right now. See you in chat.

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At The Mall

Waffles and bacon for breakfast, then watched TV. Have to be at the mall at 11am. Working right now and will go out shortly and finish up locking down gates and restrooms then off to the house. See you in chat.

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Quiet Day

Today we have had 2 EMS calls, 1 service call and a vehicle fire. Boy Scouts toured the station also. We also had the Jackson Street Fall Festival in old town Ridgeland. Other then that it has been quiet with temps in the 50's and windy. Tomorrow I have the mall from 11a-7p.

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Getting Back To Normal

The mall 7a-3p was as usual. Other than a cough every now and than I am back to normal. After the mall I went to get a haircut in Canton on the square. It is an old time barbershop just like Floyd's on the Andy Griffith Show only it is $8. Took a nap when I got home.

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Feeling Better Today

Feeling better today, ended up working the 7-3 at the mall. Actually 8:15-2:45, got off from FD at 8 and I had a dentist appointment at 3pm. I was tired when I got home so I took a nap. Bridget made club sandwiches and homemade soup. Tomorrow I'm back at the mall 7-3.

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At FD

Still don't feel the greatest but better than I did yesterday. FD shift has been quiet. Look forward to a quiet night.

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Still Sick

I am feeling a little better today. I stayed in all day, caught up on recorded TV shows. Tomorrow is the FD. I should be well enough to go to work tomorrow. See you in the chat room.

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Sick Again

Woke up not feeling well this morning so I went to the doctor. Turns out I have a upper respiratory/sinus infection which is what I had a month ago. On a Zpack, decatrone shot, and decongestant. Hope this works. Had to trim the hedges back as the painters are coming this week, they pressure washed the house this morning. The appliance company picked up the old dishwasher and dropped off the check. Not much else going on.

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Weekend at Oak Mountain

First off, I don't know what happen to or how to fix the font on this post, sorry.

Friday, Nov 7

Bridget dropped the dogs off at the kennel and picked her parents up on the way back home. When I got home I filled the trailer tires to 110 psi, trailair suspension at 80 psi and the trailair hitch at 80 psi. I set all of these before every trip. I have been thinking of upgrading to the 17.5" tires Howard has been taking about. We were on the road for Oak Mountain State Park by 9am. Just about all of the morning traffic was gone. An uneventful drive over, due to me working a double shift at the mall I was unable to pull the trailer out and start the refrigerator so we stopped at a Cracker Barrel. We checked into a level site #31 loop B at OMSP. Full hook up but a 30 amp site. This area is beautiful with the leaves changing. After setting up we headed into town to pick up the tickets and groceries. We grilled hamburgers for supper and watched TV.

Saturday, Nov 8

Bacon, eggs and toast for breakfast. Watched football and went to the Galleria Mall and walked around. Lunch was sandwiches back at the campground, more football and naps. Supper was at Stardome Comedy Club, we all had ribeyes, BP and salad. It was a good show and we all had fun.


Sunday, Nov 9

After breakfast of pancakes and bacon we loaded up to head back home. We were on the road by 10:30am. When I was just about to slow down for a rest stop the left rear trailer tire blew out, it was loud enough to hear in the cab of the truck with radio on and windows up. Took about 30 minutes to change the tire and we were back on the road traveling at 60mph, I usually drive 65-70 depending on if we are in a hurry to get somewhere, no more hurring for us. I will check on the 17.5" tires before our next trip. Back home and in my recliner.

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OMSP Tomorrow

Quiet today at the FD with just a few EMS calls. Hope it is quiet tonight as I need a good night sleep. We are leaving tomorrow morning for our weekend trip to Oak Mountain State Park. Tonight we are having dinner with Kay and friends at Cock of the Walk restaurant for her birthday which is actually tomorrow but so are her chemo treatments. She says it will be Tuesday before she feels like eating again after her treatments. Please continue to pray for Kay and her family.

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Yesterday's Post

What started off as a 7-3 shift at the mall ended up with a 7a-11p shift as my 3-11 shift relief man became ill and called in sick. It was a long day and as soon as I got home it was time for some snoozing. Had to get up at 6 to head off to the FD.

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Go Vote

We both voted today, Bridget went this morning and I went after I got off from the mall at 3pm. This morning the lines were long, Bridget had to wait 40 minutes in line, at 3pm I walked in and was second in line. Be sure you vote today!!

We had a bunch of EMS calls with the last one at 1:30 ish this morning. Then at 2:30am after getting back to sleep we were dispatched to a house fire. We arrived on scene of a 2 story residence with heavy smoke showing from the second floor. The fire was extinguished a short time after arrival. No injuries and the home owner went to stay with friends. We were back in bed by 4 am. Up at 7 and off to the mall by 8am. Normal day cleaning at the mall.

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Second Shift

Finishing up the day of a second shift. At 8am I have to get bloodwork done for my cholesterol medicine refills then to the mall til 3p. It has been quiet during the day with just a few EMS calls.

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Forgot To Post

Forgot to post yesterday. Well Fred usually wakes up between 5:55 and 6:05 every morning. A few weeks ago, Bridget forgot to set the clock and Fred woke her up, seems he has a set time her likes to eat. I guess that is the beagle in him. Needless to say we forgot to set Fred back on daylght saving so at 4:58am Sunday morning he thought it was time to get up but she got him to go back to sleep.
We had six medical calls. Watched the race, JJ finished 13th but is still leading the championship just ahead of Carl Edwards.

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Lack Of Sleep

Ended up with 4 calls through the night and a total of 11 calls for the shift. The mall from 8ish to 3. Replace the drive gear on the garage door when I got home. The part came in yesterday. Bridget has been spending all day cleaning out the back room and plans on continuing tomorrow.

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Nothing Going On

Slow day, usual EMS, fire alarms and a grass fire on the interstate. Lunch at McB's with Bridget, Amy and Nathan "Bo", he is Kay's husband. She was in for her weekly chemo treatment and may have to have surgery next week. Please keep her in your prayers.

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New Dishwasher Installed Today

Slow day at the mall, in at 7 off at 3. 6 of us went to lunch at the Parker House restaurant, it is a fine dining restaurant but they have a blue plate lunch that is excellent for $8.95, today was hamburger steak, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, turnip greens, cornbread and roll. Bridget and I had water with lemon. Stopped by Lowes on the way home and picked up a dishwasher and removed the broken one and installed the new one. Bridget is having supper with Annie. Since her husband works nights she asked Bridget if she wanted to go to her to her works appreciation supper. I will read blog and go to chat tonight.

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More Cheesecake

Left FD at 8 heading to the mall til 3. Not much going on just the usual. It has started getting down into the 30's at night so when I got home I put the portable electric thermostat heater in the basement so the pipes won't freeze in Suite Ram. I've got a cheesecake in the oven, hold on the timer just went off, brb. OK I'm back, the cheesecake has to stay in the oven about 30 more minutes then cool for 30 minutes then into the refrigerator overnight. This one is for the 3-11 mall supervisor, I will take it tomorrow to the mall and put it in our refrigerator until he comes in then we may sample it. Waiting for Bridget to get home so we can go dishwasher shopping and most likely will eat out tonight.

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Nothing Going On

Slow at FD, I have two employee evaluations to work on today, they are done. Just a few EMS calls and our semi annual PT testing. That's about it for today. I do enjoy reading the blogs of those that are traveling and hope to be there soon.

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3-11

I was scheduled for 3-11 but we got the majority of the work done early so I left at 9:30. I will be up at 6 for an FD shift tomorrow. Dishwasher is broke (not Bridget) so I called Kitchenaid and they are going to buy back the dishwasher so later this week I will be installing a new dishwasher. Heading to bed.

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11-7

Breakfast at home, worked the 11-7 at the mall. Normal day with nothing exciting going on. The garage door broke yesterday so I ordered the part online this morning.

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Birthday for Nathan

Quiet day again, it is one of the FF's birthday so we are grilling ribeyes and baked potatoes for supper. Nathan is his name but we call him "Dawg". We also got him an ice cream cake for after the steaks. Been watch football and about to play cards.

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Slow Day

Foggy, drizzle and cool this morning (50's), fog burned of around 10am, sun came out and warmed up into the 60's. Usual day at the mall. Lunch at McB's with Bridget, Frank and Amy. Hamburger steak, speckled butter beans, garlic roasted potatoes, roll, tea and blueberry cheesecake. After getting home just surfed the web and blogs.

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Cheesecake

Today I made the strawberry cheesecake for delivery this evening with the plain cheesecake. We should get that call within the next 30-45 minutes. Bridget came home for lunch, we had sandwiches and jello. After lunch I got a haircut then back to the house to read blogs and surf the net, also watched TV. Bridget had a dentist appointment at 3pm so she is home early today. Weighed in at 246.

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A Fire Today

FD today, it was quiet until this evening. We had a structure fire at a gas station this afternoon. On the back side of the building they had added a room for a smoker, part of this room burned before we put out the fire. 2 engines, 1 rescue, myself, chief and deputy chief, safety officer and fire inspector responded. Fire was extinguished quickly with no extension into the building. That with a few medical calls today. We are at alarm # 1834 for the year.

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No Eggshells

7-3 at the mall, same normal trash cleanup work day. Made another cheesecake, this one is without eggshells, break eggs into a bowl first and not directly into the mixer. I will make one more on Thursday with strawberries on it. That will give each one an 8" cheesecake. Cesilly will be 19 and Miles will be 20. Been reading blogs and playing online games.

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Need Sleep

Went to bed last night a little after 11 and just as I got to sleep we had a fire alarm with reported smoke in the hallways and evacuation in progress of one of the hotels. We arrived to find nothing, some of the occupants said they saw a haze. We searched all three floors and found nothing. We checked HVAC, light ballast, rooms, everything. The thermal imaging camera did not detect anything. I don't like leaving the scene until I am comfortable enough that I would go to sleep in the building. After searching almost an hour, we let the occupants back to their rooms and we returned to service. After a little over 5 hours of sleep it was time to get up and get ready for job #2. We had a busy morning blowing off the sidewalks, the leaves are starting to fall. More cleaning after lunch then time to go home. I am making a cheesecake for Miles and Cesilly, they have the same birthday one year apart. Their birthday is Friday, it has been awhile since I had made a cheesecake so I am making a practice one tonight. Thursday will be birthday cake day. That's it for now.

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Sunny Sunday

A quiet sunny Sunday at the FD with temps hitting the upper 60's. 1,814 calls so far this year as of this post. Watched the race, JJ won, Earnhart finished second. I have the mall this week, I have been off this past week and a half. Not much else to report.

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Fun Day

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5k walk was this morning, we had a 45 minute late start due to so many people showing up and having to be bused over from the parking lot. Bridget, Annie, myself, and a few of the people from Bridget's office walked. After the walk, Kay, Cesilly, Miles, Bridget, Annie and I went to Red Lobster for lunch, we had a good time. Miles is Cesilly's boyfriend. After we got home we dropped Annie off and headed to the Scarecrow Carshow. Many memories there. Old cars and new cars were there, I had a 69 Camaro back in high school. After the carshow we headed off to Wallyworld for a few groceries then back to the house for a nap. Supper was meatloaf and veggies.

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Slow Go

Got home from FD and cooked eggs for breakfast. Read blogs then rode my bike to the pharmacy to pick up Bridget's prescription. Lunch with Bridget, Amy and Frank at McB's, back to the house, took a nap then read more blogs. On chat tonight.

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Slow Day

Been slow at the FD with no calls so far today, if we do get one it will be alarm #1795 for the year. Weighed in this morning at 247 which is what I weighed last week so I jumped on the treadmill for an hour. I hope to keep this up along with bike riding to help with weigh loss. One of the FF's grandson has a kids bike that he is bringing next shift to see if it will fit Bridget, she wants a bike now and the GS is wanting to sell. Been reading blogs this afternoon.

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2009 June Rally

Slept in this morning, got up a little after 10. Read blogs and found out the June 2009 Rally is off as Howard & Linda will be out west in California. Lunch at the house with Bridget, we had sandwiches and fruit. Normal errands, bank, PO, grocery store and back home.

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The Bike

This morning one of the FF's truck would not start and he was needing to go to his part time job so I let him use my van. I tried several times unsuccessfully to get it started, nothing. Robert works up the road at Gateway Tire and Service so another FF and I towed Nathan's truck down to Gateway. Parked it, tried starting it, nothing. Mechanic gets to it and it started right up, figures. Pulls it inside and puts the scanner on it and everything shows okay. Nathan finished his side job around noon and stopped by Gateway to swap out vehicles. He took me to lunch at Mama Hamil's Buffet, I'm telling you if you are in the area this is a must stop for lunch.
After lunch I called to check on my bike, it was ready so I went to Pearl to pick it up. Got it back to the house and said to myself, self, you should go riding. I rode out about 6 miles which is a bad thing seeing how I haven't ridden in years and now I have to get back. Needless to say I am worn out.

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Diesel Fuel And The Dow

Slow day at FD, diesel this morning was $3.69 a gallon, luckily Bridget didn't have time to fill up going to work so on her way home she pulls in and it had dropped to $2.79 a gallon. I called the store because I though she was pulling my leg, sure enough $2.79 a gallon for diesel. Dow Jones is up over 9000, I don't want to get to excited. Look forward to a quiet night. I am scheduled to be off all this week from the mall, unless they call me in.

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October 14
It was to good to be true, I called again this morning and they said it was an error, $3.69 a gallon.

Back Home

We are back at the house. We had fun this weekend which was our plan, love it when a plan comes together. I was able to visit the chat room last night with all my chat buddy's. See you in chat tonight.

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Neighbors

This morning we woke to find new neighbors, they are from Madison, MS which is where we are from, a small world. Neighbor on the other side is a retired Baton Rouge fire fighter that is fulltiming in a 5'ver looking to go back to a class A.
We went to the Louisiana Cattle Festival parade in downtown Abbeville, the parade lasted about an hour and a half. Found out the Gumbo Festival in Erath is next weekend.
We had dinner at Riverfront Restaurant, we both had fried shrimp with sides, crab cake appetizers and sweet tea. We were going to listen to more of the music but could not find a place to park so after about 20 minutes of looking we went back to the RV park.


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Ocotber 10, 2008, Happy Anniversary Bridget

The wifi here is in and out from Suite Ram, the park is Betty's large back yard. Lots are fairly level with a limestone base and is just outside the city limits.
Yesterday we spent our anniversary evening in downtown Abbeville. The Louisiana Cattle Festival is going on this weekend, http://www.louisianacattlefestival.org/ . We walked around after dinner at Black's Oyster Bar http://www.blacksoysterbar.com/index.html , we don't like oyters so I had a ribeye and Bridget had a filet, both came with salad and baked potato. We have sweet tea which they use cane syrup for sweetener. They have 3 stages in the different areas, bands play til midnight, fair rides that we just watched the children ride, we are to old for that, and craft booths. Today, Saturday we may ride down to Erath were there is a Gumbo Festival.

Happy Anniversary to the love of my life.

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Loaded Up

We decided we would leave this afternoon when Bridget gets off from work. The trailer and truck are hitched, loaded and waiting. Hope to be on the road by 5:30 with a 90 mile drive to Percy Quin State Park in MS. Final destination for Friday is Betty's RV Park in Abbeville, LA for an anniversary weekend. No "wifi" at PQ so will have to wait til Friday. Weighed in at 247, down from 250 a week ago. Looking forward to a fun weekend.

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Four Days

Back side of a double, been a slow day. Getting ready for four days in a row off. Taking Suite Ram in to have the tires balanced before heading off to Louisiana as well as the truck tires rotated. We may leave tomorrow after Bridget gets from work. If not, early Friday morning. Betty's RV in LA advertises "WiFi" so we will see.

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First Of Another Double

I am feeling a little better today, I did take off from the mall on Thursday, trying to stay out of the dust. Slow day today, email and blog reading. This is my first shift of two back to back. Hope to make chat tonight, planning to watch the debates.

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Trip To The Doc

It was a night of no sleep caused from draining sinuses. I attemped to work at the mall but wasn't feeling well at all. At 8:30a, I called my doctor and made an appointment for 3:15p, normal 7-3 at the mall ended at 10am when I headed to the house and climbed in bed and slept til 2:15p, got up and showered and headed to the doctors office. I have a sinus infection, they gave me a shot and a prescription for antibiotics.
I checked the mail to find the earthquake putty Dortha told us about had arrived as well as the power grip 50amp plug end. I will be working a double shift tomorrow and Wednesday so I will install it on Thursday.
We are heading down to Louisiana for our 28th wedding anniversary the 10th-12th.

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Back Side

On the back half of a double shift at the FD. We had a kitchen fire this morning, fire was contained to the cabinets, stove and microwave/vent hood. Other than that it has been quiet. I have another double shift coming up on Oct 7th & 8th.
Watched the race, winner should have been Regan Smith since Tony Stewart forced him down below the yellow line, just my opinion. JJ finished 9th and is still first in the points for the championship.
Look forward to a quiet rest of the shift. See you in chat.

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First Half

I'm working a double shift at the FD. It has been somewhat quiet, R1 is on a call now, when they get back we will start a movie. May not make chat tonight.

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Bike Not Ready

6am start, breakfast then to the mall. Usual day of cleanup, pressure washed sidewalks and normal cleaning. Lunch at McB's with Bridget's office and 3 of us from the mall. Called about my bike when I got home and they said it would be ready at 5:30p, I made reservations at a steakhouse on the property of the bike shop. The bike shop owner's parents own the restaurant. Just before we left the house Gary called and said he couldn't get one of the shifters to work and would have to soak it over the weekend. We stopped in the bike shop and talked with Gary, he hopes to have it going Tuesday, they are closed Monday. Bridget had shrimp and I had a ribeye, good food. See you in chat.

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One Forth of One Thousand Pounds

That is what I weighed this morning, 250 pounds. I am officially watching my weight, my goal is 200 or below by January. That is when I will be shopping for health insurance when I retire some time in 2009. We have decided on an HSA (Health Saving Account) with a high deductible (10k), you can read more about HSA's at http://www.rv-dreams.com/health-insurance-hsa.html , Howard has a great explanation.

This morning was errands to the bank, pharmacy, wallyworld, post office and then to lunch with Bridget, Kay, Bo, Frank and Jeffrey. Kay has her cancer treatment this evening, she has them every Friday. Bo is Kay's husband, I worked with him at the FD, he retired in 2003. Jeffrey is Kay's brother and moved back from New Orleans yesterday. Frank works in the warehouse at TSC with Bridget and Kay.

After lunch, I know I shouldn't have but I took a nap, when I got up I started the kitchen cabinet painting project by caulking the baseboards getting them ready for paint. I hate painting, painting is for painters and I am not a painter, Dee is a painter. Dee is a chatter and said she and Jim were coming over to paint, still waiting Dee.

See you in chat.

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Stuff

At the FD today, yesterday ended our fiscal year so I had some year end paperwork to keep me busy today. Other than that same ole stuff. I've got some double shifts coming up, Oct 4 & 5 and Oct 7 & 8. I am off tomorrow from the mall so hopefully will be able to paint cabinets and trim. See you in chat.

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Good Eats

Up at 6 this morning, worked at the mall, we stayed busy this morning pressure washing sidewalks. Trash cleanup after lunch. After I got of I took my mountain bike back to Pearl to have it worked on. It is going to be ready Friday, we will see. Got home and cut up some okra and cooked them down with rotel tomatoes. Bridget cooked up hamburger patties and fixed a shrimp salad, cantaloupe for dessert. See you in chat.

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A Day Off

Well I have a day off, first I drove by the mall to see about rescheduling 10/5 so I can work an extra shift at the FD. Left there heading to Pearl to drop off my mountain bike for a gear adjustment, arrived at 9 and they open at 10 so I headed to S & S Apache RV center to pick up a 50 amp Power Grip male end for my power cord, they were out of them but have one ordered and will be in today, I left my cell phone number and still waiting for the call. Went to another RV center still no luck. Headed back to the bike shop arriving just before 10, one car in the lot already. Ten and nobody there, 5 after 10 and the other guy leaves. I walked down to the road to get the phone number and give them a call, no answer but did find out they are closed on Monday which was verified by the sign on the door, if I just knew what day of the week it was. Ran by the doctors office to get a prescription for my Crestor then to the house and cooked lunch. I cut up bratwurst, onions, peppers, celery then added pasta served with bread. Bridget came home for lunch. After lunch I drove to Canton for a haircut, back home for a nap. See you in chat.

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Still Tired

I ended up sleeping through chat last night, up at 6:15 this morning. Cereal for breakfast, shower and off to FD. Quiet day with only 1 call so far today, last shift ended with a total of 10 calls. As of our last call we have had 1,674 runs since Jan. 1, 2008. Started watching the race and remember only about the first half, woke up to find out JJ had won. We are grilling chicken for supper tonight. I am off tomorrow. See you in chat.

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7-5

Left the mall last night around 10:40p since I would be returning this morning, I was in bed and asleep by 11p with the alarm set for 6a, Fred usually sleeps to 5:56, you would think he would give me those extra 4 minutes but this morning he decided it would be nice to get up at 5:43 so I stayed in bed to 6:17 not able to go back to sleep. Got up, shower and breakfast and out the door. Arrived at 6:42 ready to work til 3p, but then I see the 3p relief man driving by before 8a, hmm ?, he tells me he has drill this weekend and won't be in until 5p. I got off at 5 and headed to the house. I'm in my recliner watching the last 2+ minutes of the Tenn/Auburn game, hope to stay awake to see the ending. See you in chat.

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Busy at the Mall

Got off from FD, had to pick up a trailer so I could caerry my lawn mower down to Crystal Springs to cut my mom's property then when I got home cut ours. That took up the morning then swapped vehicles out with Bridget. Off to the mall, working 3p-11p which is where I am right now. They are having live bands playing on the weekends. It has been very busy with lots of people shopping and walking around, most of the garbage cans were full, this is a good sign. I will be back here at 7a to work til 3p tomorrow. Won't make chat tonight so see you tomorrow night.

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1928

7 calls so far today, hoping for a quiet night. The high school had their parade this evening, we had a ladder truck and our first fire engine, a 1928 Boyer, in the parade. The Boyer (Duece Eight) broke down on the way back to the station so we ended up towing it. Hard to believe that a vehicle that is 80 years old would break down but things happen. Will be working the 3-11 shift at the mall tomorrow. Heading to bed.

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From The Dave Ramsey Website, Will This Work?

How We Can Clean Up A Lot of the

Economic Problems

Remember Enron, WorldCom, Adelphia, and other companies had artificially put assets on the books? They'd say something was worth $10M when they bought it, but eventually it decreased in value, and they never updated the value in the books. That was part of the fraud. Under current laws at that time, they were all convicted and put in jail for fraud.

Then we got all mad and made all these new laws that are coming out the wazoo called sarbanes oxley. It's a huge, massive law but the idea is that we were going to mandate ethics to corporate America because apparently they didn't have any, according to the Enron failure. It's now a total pain in the butt to execute it in a publicly traded company.

It didn't work because you can't cause ethics to happen. However, it does make each company each day restate what their assets are worth if sold on the market. This accounting procedure is mark to market accounting--you need to remember that. It's a good concept and keeps companies from having loaded balance sheets.

How This Affects Us Today

However, it's part of what's caused this in the news now. Merrill Lynch was sitting with $30 billion tied up in sub-prime loans with houses. Stupid! They get what they deserve for doing that, and I'm with you on that. Those houses didn't become worthless all of a sudden because those people couldn't sell their bonds. Since they couldn't sell them, they basically gave them away for 22 cents on the dollar. Now do you think all those houses lost 80% of their value underneath that deal? No, they didn't, so they gave them away for 22 cents on the dollar (about $6 billion total) because there was no market for them. Nobody wants to buy sub-prime bonds because they suck. They're junk bonds. But at 22 cents on the dollar, it's a bargain because even if you foreclosed on every one of the houses in there, you'd probably get $20 billion back out of $30 billion, and so the company that bought those for $6 billion got a deal! But there's no market for them. That's where these companies are stuck. They can't sell this stuff, but accounting-wise, they've had to mark it down to market and it's frozen the marketplace.

Economist Wesbury is saying that if we change that one rule and don't force them to mark down to market value and just let them hold on to all the stuff, and say just on sub-primes for this period of time you can change that rule -- a temporary change -- that'll free the market up. It's seized right now; it's frozen. This will thaw it out and get it going again. He says that'll solve 60% of the problem ... and I think he's right.

That one accounting rule is what made Merrill Lynch sell out. That one accounting rule is what's driving other ones into the dirt. Would you rather let them change their accounting rule or loan them $700 billion for us to buyout their bad paper?

I'd rather them work their own crap out than change the accounting rule.

I don't like giving them any money or any help with my tax dollars. But I'd rather see that than see the whole thing turn completely upside down in a fruit basket turnover than have a whole meltdown or something and freak out here in the middle of the election season. Why don't we just take the FHA insurance program and extend it across these sub-primes? What that means is that you and I are guaranteeing the lender that they're not going to lose as much or any money on those mortgages. Now I don't like guaranteeing them, but I like it better than buying them. In other words, instead of $700 billion in tax-payer debt going out there to bail out these companies, just extend the insurance out. You could probably do that for less than $40 billion. It's like a 95% savings!

If the government insured those mortgages, they would then be marketable. And could sell them. And the companies would stay afloat. And we, the people, don't have to get into the mortgage business. Now we're going to get in there a little bit because of the insurance on those getting foreclosed on. But foreclosures aren't causing this. This is being caused because these companies are frozen and seized up. We've got to let some of the steam come off and put some oil in there to get this thing moving again. We can do that without going into debt $700 billion.

Here's Your Plan

Call your Congressman. Call your Senator. Tell them to change the mark-to-market accounting law and to extend insurance but extend no loans. If they extend loans - if they borrow the money on the national debt in order for us to all go into the mortgage business a trillion dollars - you're going to fire their butts and send them home.

I've talked with several people today, and it's on the tables in Washington, but it's not something you're going to see on TV. If you'll let your Congressmen know you know about this and that you'll vote against them if they don't vote to change the mark-to-market law and you'll contribute your money to make sure they never serve in office again. That's what you need to tell them early and often.

If you're pissed, this is the time to step up and do something about it, America! You can stop this! It's being railroaded down your throat, but you can stop them if you call them in mass starting now. READY ... SET ... GO!

Contact:

• Your representative
• Your senators
• Senate committee

Early To Bed

For some reason I have been tired all day, same ole day with nothing exicting. Will go to bed after supper unless I get a burst of energy. I work at the mall tomorrow til 3p.

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Double Shift

Up at 6:20, had breakfast and showered then off to work at FD, I am working a double so I will get off from FD Wednesday morning at 8am and head to the mall job. Usual day with nothing exciting, we did have an automatic fire alarm and the homeowner thought she had a fire in her attic, it was a malfunctioning detector. See you in chat.

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Overslept

Didn't set the alarm clock because neither of us had to work today. We rolled out of bed at 9:56, usually out by 6 for work. Had breakfast/lunch then watched the race. JJ finished 5th. Worked on Bridget's laptop as it only had a black screen, so on my laptop I googled HP with black screen. Ended up unplugging the power cord, removing the battery and waiting 5 minutes. Put it back together and updated some of the programs. I am using her laptop for this post. Bridget is fixing dinner even as I type, don't know what it is but it smells good. See you in chat.

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Happy Birthday Jenny

Happy Birthday Jenny, yes my friends, chatroom Jenny is 24 today http://elevenfootrv.blogspot.com/ . We had a chatroom birthday party for her tonight.

Got home this morning from FD, we had creamed eggs on toast with bacon. After breakfast we went to Lowes so Bridget could pick out the cabinet and trim colors for the kitchen, then to Walmart for groceries, Bridget usually does this but I went with her today. I hate going to Walmart, I think everybody in town was there.

Watched all but the last lap of the Busch race, Directv showed up in time to turn of the satellite to change out the dish from a 3lbn to a 5lbn so we now have HD. When the TV came back on the race had been over and I don't know who won, will have to google it. Then looked on my bill and find out they have been charging me for HD since March 2006 so I called CS and talked with 4 different people, I was hung up on once, hopefully accidental disconnect on their end but finally will be getting a $300 credit. I was in chat when I realized I had not posted for today.

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Not Happening

The weekend trip will not be, maybe some other time. Have not heard from Directv so I guess they will show up tomorrow. Slow day at the FD, caught up on paperwork. Bridget had a Dr's appoinment today, he changed her meds. See you in chat.

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Weekend Trip??

The movie was great, will probably go see it again when it comes out at the theaters on the 26th. Briefly on chat last night after the movie but had to go to the mall this morning at 7 which meant getting up at 6. Nothing special at the mall today, took a nap when I got home. I read that most full timers take naps during the day and I don't know if what I am doing is practicing for full timing or tired from working so much. We were going to Roosevelt State Park this weekend but the fine people at Directv have rescheduled a dish install for the 20th between 4p-8p. I have been added to the call if cancel list, maybe they will call tomorrow. See you in chat.

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A Night At The Movies

A movie set to be released on September 26th called Fireproof will be shown at the Mississippi State Fire Academy. They are having a cookout starting at 5:30 for fire fighters and their families. Bridget and I will e attending so I am posting early today. Mall was a normal day, Lynn should be back tomorrow. I will read blogs until Bridget gets home then we will head out to MSFA. Hope to make chat tonight.

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Nothing

Missed chat last night, started watching a movie at 7 and fell asleep. Up at 6 this morning, the usual and off to FD. Nothing of interest to report so see you in chat.

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Shift Schedule Change

Originally scheduled to work 3-11 at the mall but Lynn's (The Boss) dad passed away yesterday and he called to see if I could fill in for him from 7-3 which I did. I had to call one of the guys to reschedule him to the 3-11 shift them call in payroll and some other office stuff. All taken care of. Lynn's father had been in the hospital since Thursday, he had been ill for a while. Rest of the day went smoothly. Read blogs when I got home. That's it for now.

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A Lazy Day

Had a few late night calls, got home and Bridget cooked up eggs, sausage, toast and coffee. Read blogs and surfed the internet. Took a nap to catch up on lost sleep, woke up just after the race had started. Grill brats at 2pm for lunch and had macaroni salad as a side. Watched the rest of the race, I usually fall asleep during the race. JJ finished in second and is tied with Carl Edwards for the points lead for the championship. Read more blogs after the race. That's it for now, been a lazy day.

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Visitors From Texas

Usual morning at the fire station. About 4pm one of the local hotels called and asked if we could come by and wish a Happy Birthday to a firefighter from Texas who just found out he had lost his house back in Port Arthur. The guys loaded up in the engine and stopped by Walmart to pick up a birthday cake to take with them. It was a family of 10 out of Texas and Louisiana. His father retired FD and he was retiring next year. They were run out of town by a hurricane last year on his birthday also. We were cooking red beans and rice and invited the family back to eat supper with us at the station. They arrived at 6:45 and after the blessing began loading up the plates. RB&R, garlic bread, drinks and 3 types of pies for dessert. They were very grateful that we would do this, we just let them know we are all family and were sure they would have done the same for us.
Bridget talked with her kinfolk in Warren, TX and they were out of power and had 2 windows broken, vinyl siding damage and other minor damage. They are located about 45 miles north of Beaumont.
Hope that our Texas Dreamers made it though Ike without to much damage.
We also had a FD softball tournament which started at 9a and ended at 8p, our team took second place.

See you in chat.

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Quick Day

Busy day today, started at 6am, shower, breakfast and off to the mall. Worked on replacing ceiling tiles in two of the businesses due to roof leaks. Allot of cutting down tiles and cut outs for sprinkler heads. Repaired a trailer tongue jack, cleaned out one of the service areas, built and painted a table for the landscaping crew, let the table umbrellas down. Busy days go by faster. The wind is starting to pick up, 10mph with gusts to 20mph. Tomorrow they are saying sustained at 15mph gusts 25-30mph. We only had a light sprinkle of rain this afternoon. They are saying this storm is the size of Texas. Our prayers go out to those in the path of Ike.
Birthday party for our son and BIL at there home. May not make chat tonight, depends on when we get back, they live out in the county on 5 acres.

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No Cabinet Work

Plans were to clean on the kitchen cabinets to get them ready for paint, that didn't happen. When I got home from the FD, I had a fax from the business I am trying to get set up as an Amsoil retail outlet. As I was doing that Matt (Fire Chief of Flora) and asked what I was doing for lunch. He is a sergeant on my shift and is building a house outside of Flora. I ended up driving to Flora for lunch with Matt, Marc (Another Ridgeland FF), and 3 other Flora volunteers. I had the lunch special of country fried steak, rice and gravy, corn, field peas, cornbread and tea. Everyone else has chicken or hamburgers with Cajun fries and tea. After lunch and visiting we drove out to Matt's house. Beautiful house on a hill facing a pond, huge oak trees on the west side. Got back home and replaced the ice maker line that broke back in June while we were at Branson at the RV Dreams rally. Bridget has been on my about having ice, so that's done. Then I took a short nap. Robert and Terry have birthdays coming up, Robert's the 14th and Terry's is the 12th. Party will be on 12th at Annie and Terry's. We will go shopping this evening at the mall and visit Maggie Moo's for ice cream after shopping. I did not make it to chat last night. The FD Internet just wasn't cooperating, I guess they will eventually get it working correctly. Hope to make it to chat tonight.

To end my 9/11 post

A Fireman's Prayer

When I am called to duty, God,

Whenever flames may rage;

Give me strength to save some life,

Whatever be its age.

Help me embrace a little child

Before it is too late

Or save an older person

From the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert

And hear the weakest shout,

And quickly and efficiently

To put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling

And to give the best in me

To guard my every neighbor

And protect his property.

And if, according to my fate,

I am to lose my life,

Please bless with your protecting

My children and my wife.

- Author Unknown

Never Forget

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Nothing Going On

Slept in til 6:20a, showered, breakfast and off to work. Normal day at the FD with nothing exciting to report. I have tomorrow off from both jobs. Will try to get some more of the kitchen cabinets cleaned so I can paint them. See you in chat.

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Birthday Party Tonight

Mall at 7 after getting up at 6, showering and breakfast of bacon, eggs, toast, and fresh cantaloupe. Busy today on the pond filters and pumps. Ended up draining then cleaning the fountain at Biaggi's with bleach to get rid of the algae.
The filter pump on the interactive fountain has a leak on the discharge side so the water is being pumped out of the holding tank, this will have to be repaired before we can use the filter pump.
Been reading blogs and Dee reminded me of a birthday party in chat tonight, it is Sandra's birthday, Happy Birthday Sandra.
See you in chat.

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Usual Day

Up at 6 and at the mall by 6:30 after shower and breakfast. This morning we had to have the clock tower barricaded by 7am. Contractors were setting the cap with cranes. Usual day with clean up, we did get a Billy Goat Friday. This is a drivable vacuum, kind of like a stand up riding mower except it vacuums, it also has a detachable hose. This should help out allot with clean up. We are having problems with the interactive fountain, the drain pump is not draining.

I also have another side job, I am an independent Amsoil dealer http://www.lubedealer.com/jhatch/ and spent the afternoon working on setting up a retail account with a business in Brandon. Hope to have that done by Friday.

Have been catching up on blog reading, internetless since last week. See you in chat.

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Great Three Day Weekend

Friday
Got off from FD at 7am and headed to the house. Had grits and toast for breakfast. Hooked the truck and trailer up, finished loading the trailer, loaded the dogs and on the road by 8:15 heading to Tunica. Called Dortha and let them know we were en route. They were at the Audubon RV Park just of I-55. Made it to the office of Sam's Town RV Park and were told your friends got here about 10 minutes ago. Checked it and headed to the site, Mark and Dortha were setting up their beautiful Phaeton. Backed in next to them and set our 5'ver up. After we were both set up, we looked over the new Phaeton (inside and out) what a nice floor plan. They are heading out Sunday to Red Bay to have some minor warranty work done. After chatting a while, Mark came up with a great idea, let's go to Paula Deen's Buffet. It was around 2:30ish and my breakfast was long gone. We all jumped in their Jeep and off we went. I must say if you are in the area, this is a must eat at location. The buffet was kept fresh and the food, all of it, was outstanding. After eating everything I could see, we headed into the casino. My luck would stay the same as always so with in 15 minutes my $20 was gone, I ended up watching Bridget, Mark and Dortha. We got back to the RV park a little after 5 and decided to take a nap. Layed down at 5:20p. We were going back after our nap but I forgot to wake up. I did wake up at 10:20p and watch some Jay Leno, back to bed at 11:20p, I think my 80-90 hour work weeks caught up to me.

Saturday
Woke up at 8:20a, 14 hours of needed sleep. Got up, showered and got ready for the day. Took the truck down to fill with diesel and grab a bite. Ended up at Krystal located in the gas station, this is not the place to eat. Back at the trailer we meet up with M&D, headed over to the River Museum then over to the outlet mall. I bought a wallet and Bridget bought a purse from the leather shop. Lunch was at Church's Fried Chicken then back to the trailer and watched a football game on the outside TV. The weather was nice, a little on the cool side but great football watching weather. Mark grilled pork chops and Dortha cooked up a rice and a vegetable dish. A wonderful meal with friends. The show we were going to see started at 7pm so after eating we got ready to head over to the casino. Roddy Carington was a great show with the exception of the drunk sitting behind us that kept talking. Security was called to remove them along with their camera, no photography allowed. After the show we meet up with M&D in the casino. Bridget ended up giving them the rest of her $20 so we ended up watching M&D. In bed at 11:20p.

Today
Meet up with M&D at 8:15a for the breakfast buffet at Sam's Town. After overeating we walked back to the RV park and said goodbye's. M&D were heading to Red Bay to Tiffin Motorhomes for repair work, nothing major. Bridget and I headed back at noon.

After arriving back home and unloading the trailer I was getting online but Internet was still down. I called AT&T and after about an hour with them on the phone I ended up reconfiguring my entire PC, now everything works again.

We had a good time this weekend and enjoyed spending it with Mark and Dortha. Look forward to meeting up with them in the future.

See you in chat.

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Rain Again then Sun

Did not get to post or chat on Wednesday-Internet down at the house, probably flooded. So Wednesdays post:

Rained all day again, worked at the mall til 3pm. When I got home I hooked the trailer up to pull it out so it could be loaded for our trip this weekend. This was done in the rain, did I mention it rained all day. After I get that done I go inside and say to myself, self, it's hot in here. 82 degrees inside, 76 degrees outside and the A/C is set on 74 degrees. I'm thinking this can not be good, all the inside stuff is working properly so I go outside in the rain and check the outside unit, fan is not running. The fan motor is so hot I can't touch it, this is actually a good thing. I remove the electrical cover and energize the contact switch, compressor comes on fan does not. That is why it was a good thing. Fan motor $60, new outside unit $4,000. To late for a fan motor so we opened some of the windows for the night. My plan was to replace it on Monday after we get back from Tunica. The boss spoke up and said it will be fixed tomorrow, I said "yes dear". Had a little rain blow in through one of the windows, 6pm weather said rain was going to stop around 8pm.

Todays post:

At FD today, like most FD's the guys have side jobs. Mike Bullock is getting off at 8am, care to guess what his side job is? I asked him if he was doing anything today and he said no, what you got. Which I replied with the fan motor on my condensor is out. He said no problem so as of noon the boss has A/C again.

Usual calls today, EMS and fire alarms. For some crazy reason yet to be determined, one of the six tornado sirens decided it would activate so we had to turn the breaker off to it, repairman will be out as soon as possible.

Bridget will load the trailer this evening and we will leave out between 8-9am for our 2-3 hour drive to Tunica. We will be meeting up with Mark and Dortha http://rvingwithpoppa.blogspot.com/ for the weekend. They have their new 40' Phaeton they are checking out for any problems. Hopefully there will not be any. They are staying around this area for a short while so if needed can return to the dealer for adjustments or whatever.

Sun came out for a little while then clouds again, see you in chat.

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Rain, Rain and More Rain

Been raining for days now, hope it ends soon. Working the mall 3p-9p today, will be back tomorrow from 7a-3p. Our RRT has not been deployed but is still on standby. Haircut today and while I was in the barber shop one of the customers became ill and was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Heading to the house here shortly, may not make chat tonight.

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Happy Labor Day To All

Well it's labor day and Gustav has made landfall. Our Reginal Response Team (RRT) has been activated. We have a Ford F350 towing a boat, rescue truck, and an 8 man team on standby for possible deployment to southern Louisiana in the morning. Right now in Ridgeland it is 79 degrees with winds from the East at 17mph gusting to 28mph. Tornado warnings have been numerous in our area since after noon. No touchdowns as of this writing in our area. Forecasted for 100% rain today and tomorrow. Unlike Katrina we were spared from Gustav.

I have the morning off and will go in and work the 3p-11p shift at the mall tomorrow.

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Almost Here

Woke up at 9, actually Fred woke us. Got up and had grilled cheese sandwiches and bacon. I was determined to install the Edge Juice with Attitude on the truck, the old Edge EZ that I sent back for updates could not be repaired so I upgraded to the EJA which has gauges for EGT, engine and tranny temps, boost pressure and other handy information, it will also read check engine light codes as well as reset them. That took til about 1pm. I also started ribs at 9:30 and took them off at 2:30, cooked at 225 degrees, they were tasty for supper with beans and mac salad. Supper was delayed for me due to the mall boss calling and asking if I could come in and help take down table umbrellas and chairs, that was from 5:45p-7:15p. Watched TV and napped between 3-5:30p. Hurricane Gustav will be here tomorrow sometime.

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Apple

The Apple Store at the mall officially opened this morning at 10. About 250 people stood in line starting about 5am to be the "first" in the store. Worked 8a-3p today, other than the opening o Apple, it was a normal mall day.

Got home at 3:15 and did some work on the PC to try to speed it up by removing unused programs. After that I took a nap, just got up.

See you in chat.

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Hurricane Coming

Late getting to post, we watched a movie at the station. Slow day today, getting ready for the "hurricane", should be in the area (MS/LA) by Monday night or Tuesday morning according to the last report I saw. I'll be at the mall tomorrow 8-3. That's it for now.

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Surge Protector

Up at 6, worked 7-3 at the mall, Apple is opening a store on Saturday so we continued cleanup. Lunch at Bridget's office, sandwiches and chips. Got back at 1pm with the portable radio blaring that the sewer was backed up in building 9000, the entire building, all the stores. Plumber showed up within 20 minutes and snaked the sewer line clean. No damage to the stores, each bathroom has floor drains.

Got home after the PO, was about 3:30. Started on the surge protector when I remembered to hook up the drain on the dishwasher, done. Back on the surge protector, installed it in the electrical bay, no problems other then having to go to Lowes for 6/3 w ground, less than a foot needed. Will check for leaks and power at Tunica next week.

Going to read blogs.

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Installs Today

Dryer Vent Install



Dishwasher sits on the Combo Washer Dryer


Started out at FD getting off at 8am and headed to the mall. Worked there til 3pm. Busy day today with cleaning and such, they are having a photo shoot of the mall tonight at 7pm. Not sure what it is about but we had to tidy the place up along with our usual work. Pond pump filters today them trash patrol.

Got home at 3:30p after going by the Post Office. I expected to find my surge protector as delivery was today per UPS tracking number, wasn't there so I started with the Combo W/D install. I removed the door and door frame from the W/D closet. Measured for the vent hole and marked it. Went to Lowes for the supplies, hole saw, caulking, vent kit, screws, yada, yada, yada. Got back home and started cutting the hole in the exterior wall. Then I measured the vent and cut to length, put the vent kit together then placed it in the hole I had just cut to check for fit, it fit like a glove so I then applied the caulk to the back of the vent, put it back in and screwed it in place. That completes the outside, oh ya, as I am finishing this I here UPS drive up and the surge protector is now here. I am in the middle of this project so tomorrow will be the install of the surge protector as it is almost 90 degrees inside the Suite Ram. On the inside I slide the dryer into place, hooked up the vent hose and clamped it in place then hooked up the water lines, electrical and drain line, W/D is done. Now I hook up the dishwasher hose, electrical and now as I am typing this realize I didn't hook up the drain, this could be bad. The dishwasher is complete except for the drain. Tomorrow before starting the surge protector job I MUST hook up the dishwasher drain. Will be at the mall tomorrow from 7a-3p.

See you in chat.

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Back Side

On the back side of a double shift, ready for 8am. Today we have had 3 medical calls, 1 MVA, and 1 vehicle fire.

Tracking my surge protector, expected delivery on 8/27, this will give me something to do after 8a-3p at the mall.

That's about it, see you in chat.

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Working A Double

I am at the FD today and tomorrow, today working for Chief Hill. He is moving his father from Shreveport, LA to Ridgeland. Tomorrow will be my regular shift.

Fay is just about done with us and hopefully move out tonight or tomorrow morning.

I ordered a Progressive Industries hardwire 50amp surge protector with remote for Suite Ram today, excellent price of $322.24 which includes shipping, http://www.tweetys.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=6768
hopefully will be in by Friday. Want to install it before our trip to Tunica in September. Also want to finish the W/D install before then as well.

Not much else, see you in chat.

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Rain For Today

Today it rained all day long... forecast for 100% tonight and 70% tomorrow. I will be glad when Fay moves out and heads to North Carolina where they need the rain. Stayed inside, watched TV and napped. See you in chat.

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Fay Arrived

Well Fay has arrived, at about 5pm and she should be here through Tuesday. They are expecting 4+ inches of rain.

At FD today, we have had a few calls, a dumpster fire at an apartment complex, a fall, a difficulty breathing, and a commercial fire alarm. No telling what tonight will bring.

Heading off to watch the Bristol race, go JJ, Jimmie Johnson. Will check into chat after the race if anyone is still up.

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Combo W/D Install

Up at 6, shower and breakfast, I had cereal this morning then off to the mall. Poured up a cup of coffee, headed out to check the gates to be sure they were locked down, if not the wind blows them and damages the doors. We also made repairs on the latch mechanisms, springs, latches and pins. Them up to the management office to man the phone, staff was running late. The mall website is http://www.renaissanceatcolonypark.com/ if you would like to take a look. Our main job is to keep the place spotless and everything working properly, lights, water feature pumps, trash cans emptied, trash picked up, furniture cleaned and so on. That was basically what we did the rest of the day.

Lunch with Bridget and Frank at McB's, we all had the plate lunch, fish, ff, hp, coleslaw, tea and banana pudding.

Robert came by and helped me move the combo W/D (http://decoappliances.com:8080/decoappliances/) into Suite Ram, our future home. I will have to remove the door molding to get it in the closet. It shouldn't be to bad. I also have to cut a hole in the side of the trailer for the vent. After the W/D is set, the dishwasher will mount on top of it.

This afternoon I have been reading blogs and surfing the web. See you in chat.

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Long Day Today

Had two EMS calls last night, difficulty breathing and a fall, usually don't get to sleep the night without at least one call. My title is Assistant Chief so if any of the four stations get a call I monitor the radio traffic until they are back at the station. We change shifts at 8am. Headed to the mall at 8 and got off at 3p. Busy again today, blowing off sidewalks, don't know what we are going to do when fall gets here. We have so many leaves on the ground now I hate to see fall arrive.

Lunch with Bridget and Kay at a Chinese buffet, I need to stop going to buffets or I'll be 300 pounds by the time I retire. I want to get down to 200, weighted a while ago and I'm at 246.

After lunch we cleaned the pump filters on the ponds and interactive fountain, that took us to 2:45, just in time to clean up to go home.

We are going walking when Bridget gets home, I hope to continue this walking routine on a daily basis.

Going to read blogs then see you in chat tonight.

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Ate All Day

Breakfast by Bridget, eggs, toast, grits, bacon, orange juice and coffee. Shower and off to the FD. Usual day, lunch at McB's with Bridget, Kay and Cecilie. Special was fried pork chop, cabbage, mac and cheese, tea and cheesecake. Bridget had a burger and onion rings, Kay had the special and Cecilie had a grilled catfish po-boy with fries. Not a whole lot going on today, will see you in chat tonight.

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Busy At The Mall

Up at 6 for the mall job. Shower and breakfast, strawberry shredded wheat, orange juice and coffee. We had a busy day today cleaning. With backpack blowers on our backs, myself and one of the other guys blew off the sidewalks from 7:15 to 11:40 non stop. By the time we finished the backpack blower must have weighed 100 pounds. I met Bridget at her office for lunch, I had 3 hot dogs, chips, half of Kelly Jo's chicken salad, a piece of fried chicken, half of Sam's smoked sausage, jello fruit cup, chocolate teddy grahams, Lorne dunes, and a drink. Back at work, we worked with the plumbing company on the fountain pumps. Stopped by Lowes on the way home to see what I will need to install the washer/dryer in the trailer, a work in progress. Sitting in my recliner resting. Bridget and Kay have gone to dinner then to the movies to see a chick flick. I just finished leftover meatloaf. See you in chat.

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