Bowl Seasin

The college football bowl season shifts into high gear today.

I'm picking Alabama and Oklahoma to play in the national championship game.

Quarterbacks

The Colts might be down to their fourth quarterback for the final game.

It's been a disastrous season.

Self-Driving Cars

A presumed expert in such things said on CNBC recently that self-driving cars will be common in America in ten years.

That would be a big boost in independence for the disabled.

Christmas

My family came over on Christmas, and we had a good time.

My nephew Ben is getting married next year, which is pretty cool.  He's a good young man.

Power Loss

I lost power for about a half hour yesterday afternoon.

Not a good sign as we head into winter.

Christnas

My family is coming to my place on Christmas Day.

It will be a good time.

Shfts

Still no one to cover the Christmas Eve afternoon shift.

And so we go.

Books

No good word yet about any of my novels.  Various ultimately successful books have been rejected dozens of times, however.

I'll keep trying.

Hot Times

A week before Christmas in Indiana and I'm still using the fan in my office.

Amazing.

Staffing

The staffing issues that often crop up during the holidays seem to be under control this time around.

It's a good change.

Tough Day

I'm having a tough time operating the computer today.

My hand gets that way sometimes.

Password

I finally changed the password to my computer to one easier to type so I can use Windows 10 with less frustration.

It's still a pain.

Colts Are Done

The Colts were routed by the Jaguars yesterday.

I'd say the Colts are finished for this season.  They simply had too many injuries to overcome.

Indiana Weather

It's two weeks before Christmas, and people are still going outside without heavy coats.

Hopefully it's the start of a mild winter.

My Mighty Cardinals

My Ball State Cardinals  are 7-2 in men's basketball so far this season.

Hopefully, I'll get to see some of their games.

New Aides

A couple of new aides seem to be in the process of being added to my rotation.

Both seem to be nice ladies, so hopefully things work out.

Christmas Time

My aide Dennise has gotten some Christmas decorations for my apartment.

It's looking pretty good.

Colts

The Colts were blasted on national television last night.

They've had too many injuries to key guys this season.  If they make the playoffs, it'll be a fluke.

So...........

My daytime aide company did staff the dinner shift last night, but it sent an aide I'd never met.  She was good, so we got through it okay, but that's not the way to do business.

The company has had a rough week.

Another Failure

My daytime aide company did in fact fail to cover the dinner shift last night.

It's getting very predictable, and very old.

Again

My daytime aide company tells me it has no one for my dinner shift tonight.

Who knows if it'll find someone.

Windows 10

I installed Windows 10 last week so I'd stop getting the pop-ups telling me it was available, and now I have to enter my password every day before I can do anything.

It's a pain.

Joe

My brother Joe is at the Cancer Treatment Center of America hospital in Chicago today.

Please keep him in your thoughts.

Thanksgiving

I had a nice Thanksgiving yesterday.  Much of my family came over-- my sister Kim, my brother Jon, his wife Angela, their daughters Renee and Callie, and my brother Jeff and his wife Susan.

We had a good time.

Good Start

My aide Dennise worked  the overnight shift with me for the first time last night, and it went well.

Now, I should be in good shape if somebody takes time off.

My Brother Joe

Doctors have found more cancer in my brother Joe.

Please keep Joe in your thoughts and prayers.

Snow

We had our first snowfall of the season over the weekend.

I never mind the first snow, but I hope we don't have too many more.

Books

I ordered a couple books off Amazon yesterday, but it said they won't arrive until December 1.

I guess it's so long because of Thanksgiving.

College Hoops

Indiana has four teams ranked in the men's top 25-- IU, Purdue, Notre Dame, and Butler.

It should be a fun season around here.

Dennise

My aide Dennise finished her orientation yesterday, so she can work the overnight shift now.

Just in time, too.  One of my regulars is on vacation next week.

That Time Of Year

It's a dark, chilly, rainy day today.

In other words, it's a typical November day in Indiana.

Dennise

My aide Dennise is doing orientation today and tomorrow so she can do overnight shifts as well as the daytime ones.

It will be good to have someone I know and trust as overnight backup, and maybe as a regular at some point.

Rejection

A novel query I sent to a literary agent months ago was rejected today.

At least I got an email.  Many agents only contact the writer if they're interested in the project.

Weeks And Years

Two years ago this week, I moved into this apartment.

A year ago this week. a conference on humanity's future in space that I helped create was held in Hawaii.

Luck Is Out

Andrew Luck is out for a while again due to injury.

That shouldn't surprise.  He's been pounded every year he's been here.  It was only a matter of time before he began to break down.

Another Failure

My daytime aide company again failed to cover a shift yesterday.

The scheduler told me she assigned an aide, but if the aide doesn't come, there's nothing the company can do.

Really?

A Win

The Colts have now played an undefeated team three weeks in a row and got a win yesterday, beating Denver.

It's progress.

No Show

My daytime aide company failed to cover a shift again.

The scheduler told me yesterday they had the shift covered, but no one showed.

Wasteful

It seems at least one of my aides has been putting food back in the fridge without properly wrapping it up, wasting it.  They also often fail to do such things as make my bed, or clean the stove.

I wonder what their homes look like.

Hamilton Fired

The Colts have fired their offensive coordinator, Pep Hamilton, because his unit hasn't produced this season.

Can the head coach and general manager be far behind?

Dennise And Yodit

If things go as planned, Dennise will be back with me tomorrow, and Yodit will be back Thursday nightt.

It will be great to have them here again.

Royals Win

The Kansas City Royals won their first World Series since 1985 last night.

They're an exceptional outfit.  I wouldn't be surprised if they're back in the Series next year.

No Ghouls

We live in a world where people are beheaded on the Internet, children are crucified in public, random killings are common. and entertainment is awash in all sorts of cruelty.

Historians will tell us the world today is as peaceful as it's ever been.  Still, I think about the last thing we need is a  holiday that celebrates irrationality, death, and torture.

Power Blink

I had another power blink in my apartment last evening, lasting only a second or two.

Still, it's probably not a great sign heading into winter.

Royals

The Royals won the first game of the World Series in dramatic fashion last night.

I think they'll win the Series in six games.

Birthday

Today is my twin brothers' birthday.  Jeff and Joe are 56.

They're both good guys, and. with wives Susan and Robin, they've raised some great kids.

Colts

The Colts got beat again yesterday, and looked bad in the bargain.

They might make the playoffs this season, but they'll probably be blown out if they do.

Icky

There's a worker at the store I go to about every week who regularly comes up to me, hugs me, tells me I'm sweet, and calls me some affectionate name.  I realize its part of her job to be friendly, and she no doubt has the best intentions, but if a man treated her the way she treats me she might have grounds for a sexual harassment complaint.

In a civil society, the point should be to treat everyone the same, within some broad boundaries.  If she doesn't do that to every customer, she shouldn't do it to me.

Mets Win

So, the Mets, not my Pirates, won the National League last night, sweeping away the Cubs.

They'll have an excellent shot in the World Series, no matter which team they play.

Christmas Shopping

I've finished my Christmas shopping already.

I get for my nieces and nephews until they turn 18, and I only have one left in that category, so it's easy.

Movie

I just got back from watching THE MARTIAN with an aide who has become a good friend.

Ir's a great movie.  The story is more streamlined than it is in the novel.

Doors

An aide this weekend shut every door in my apartment-- the doors to my office, my bedroom, both bathrooms.

Who knows why.

More Aide Stuff

I've been thinking about the gender difference in aides.  Suppose, just for kicks, that female aides are more attentive to male clients than males are.  Could male aides be more attentive to female clients than female aides are?  Is that tendency simply something wrapped tight in human nature?

Just  a thought.

Aide Stuff

Two of my female aides say my male aides don't do enough when they're here.  I think it's correct that the approach is often different between men and women, which I find both interesting and not terribly surprising.  Women perhaps tend to be more meticulous and ready to help, whereas men might be more inclined to do what's necessary and leave it at that.

Lately, I tend to have more male aides.  I don't know if that's deliberate or not.  It's also true I tend to form relationships faster with women than with men, which might result in better care.

Power Blink

My power blinked off for a few seconds twice this morning, once about 9 and again about 10.

Not a great start to the cold season.

Yodit

My aide Yodit will be away another ten days, taking her vacation time.

I will miss her.

Shift Goof

My daytime aide company failed to cover another shift yesterday.

The company had a good run of competence earlier this year, but it seems to be slipping back into bad, neglectful habits.

Colts Win Again

The Colts won their third straight last night-- two of them without Andrew Luck.

Their next game is against the Patriots, however, so Luck better be back.

Boo Hiss

My Pirates, who had the second best record in baseball this season, lost the Wild Card game last night.

It's a bummer.

Luck Out?

Andrew Luck could possibly miss another game tomorrow night.

If he does, the Colts may finally have to develop an actual running game, which would mean the offensive line will need to toughen up.  If that happens, when Luck comes back the Colt offense could be extremely formidable.

Baseball Playoffs

The major league baseball playoffs start tonight.

My picks to play in the World Series are the Toronto Blue Jays and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Death In The Family

The stepfather of my main daytime aide passed away last week, so she will be off until Thursday.

I will miss her.

Spiders

I've been seeing several bugs in my apartment recently, especially spiders.

I guess they're coming indoors because the weather is getting colder.

No Division

My Pirates were eliminated from the divisional race last night, but they still made the playoffs as a wild card.

Hopefully, they can beat the Cubs and move on.

Fiddling With Me

The company nurse came by yesterday, and she brought new sippy cups.  It seems an aide who comes occasionally isn't happy with the way I drink.  She not only brought new cups, but, I'm told,  they threw away the old ones.

So, without asking me, instead of telling that aide to adjust to me, the company forces me to adjust.  That doesn't strike me as good business practice.  It does strike me as heavy handed and disrespectful.  Who gave them the right to throw away my property?  I have enough challenge getting adequate fluids-- which, I suppose, is largely my fault.  I don't need people making it even harder for no good reason.

Colts

The Colts returned to their familiar pattern Sunday, falling behind and coming back to win.  That works against weaker teams, but it gets you buried against good teams.

The Colts need to blow somebody out.

Uncle Max

My Uncle Max passed away yesterday.  He was Mom's oldest brother, and Dad's best friend when they were boys.  Dad's younger sister Caroline was Mom's best friend.

They're all gone now.

Vacation Time

Two, perhaps three, of my main aides are taking time off in October.

It might be a long month for me.

Still Using My Fan

I'm still using my fan.  I have to work so hard when I first get on the computer every day that I get hot, and the fan helps.

After a bit, I get in a groove, and everything is easier.

Doctor

I went to the doctor today for a checkup.

Everything was fine.

Colts 0-2

The Colts lost their second straight game last night, and looked bad doing it.

Of course, they did the same thing last year and went 11-3 the rest of the season.

Chipmunk

I got a good view if a chipmunk outside my apartment this weekend.  It was pretty cool.

We have many small animals around here.

Using My Fan

My aide Dennise has rigged my fan so I can turn it on and off myself.

I didn't think I'd use it much this late in the year, but I've used it about every day this week.

Assumptions

People make assumptions about other people.  They especially make assumptions about disabled persons, often assuming the disabled are less intelligent, less capable than they are.

Even physicians and other healthcare professionals too often make such assumptions.  They should know better.

Family

I have two aides now who've told me I'm part of their families.

They're both terrific ladies whom I trust completely, so I'm honored they feel that close to me.

Book

I ordered a book from Amazon last month and had to re-order it, but I finally got it today.

It's odd.  The first time I ordered this one, I also ordered another one, and I got that book promptly.

Colts

The Colts opened their season yesterday looking very much like last year's team.  That can be good, of course, but it wasn't yesterday.

Hopefully, they'll get better.

Pirates

My Pirates still have the third best record in baseball, but it doesn't look like they'll catch the Cardinals in their division.

So, the Pirates will likely play in the wild card game for the third year in a row.

Jordan

Jordan, who used to be my main daytime aide, will be here again today.

It'll be good to see her again.

Joe.... Again

My brother Joe's surgery went well yesterday.  They found a third tumor, but it was not cancerous.  They found no more cancer at all, so that's great news.

I'm relieved.

Joe

No word yet about Joe.   His surgery was scheduled to start at noon and take half an hour if all went well.

I'm increasingly concerned, as it's now about 3.

Joe

My brother Joe has melanoma, but full-body scans show the cancer has not spread beyond the two small tumors in his intestines.

He will have surgery to remove those tomorrow.

Geese

I saw several Canadian geese flying very low-- 20 or 30 feet high-- when I was out this morning.  I could see lots of detail.

It was pretty neat.

Brady Wins

Tom Brady beat the NFL in federal court, having his suspension overturned.  He'll now be eligible to play the full season.

That will make the victory even sweeter if the Colts can pound the Patriots.

Summer Heat

The summer heat is arriving a bit late this year,

If it leads to a mild winter, I'm all for it.

Ten Years

It's been ten years now since Mom and I moved back to Indiana from Florida.

It's been a tumultuous ten years, which makes me more grateful I was back home.

Joe

My brother Joe has cancer, again.  He goes into the hospital later this week for treatment.

Please keep him in your thoughts.

Gabby

Gabby, my aide for a few weeks this summer, emailed me from IU yesterday, just to stay in touch.

She's a really nice young woman.

Still Waiting

I have several novel queries out to literary agents now, but so far no takers.

Hopefully, something will break soon.

Dogs

I understand today is National Dog Appreciation Day.  I don't know who decides such things.

Anyway, dogs are terrific.  They deserve a day.

It Happened Again

Yesterday, my daytime aide company failed to staff another shift.  I'm told the company's computer system went out.  Presumably, whatever backup system it has failed, as well.

The company has done better in recent months.  Hopefully, it's not sliding back into its old habits.

Reggie

Reports yesterday said that Reggie Wayne will likely play this season with the New England Patriots.

Yuck.

Getting Aides

It seems my daytime company is still having difficulty filling my shifts, especially on the weekends.

We'll see what happens.

Dentist

I just got back from the dentist.

I have no cavities.

Dennise

Dennise has become my main daytime aide, and we get along very well.

She has twin grandsons who both have CP, and that has given her insights into working with me.

Computer Acting Up

My computer is fighting me a bit today.  Whenever I've tried to do something, a screen has made me do something else first.

There are times I'd like to pop it right in its CPU.

Apple Cars

A report says Apple is developing self-driving cars that could be on the market in a few years.  Google, of course, has already gone public with its efforts to build such vehicles, and the major automakers are also looking at the problem.  Competition is good.

Self-driving cars, of course, would be great for the disabled.  I'm rooting for them.

Books

I sometimes don't buy books I'd like to read because they are physically too big for me to handle.

Maybe I'll get an e-reader at some point.

Brady And Goodell

Tom Brady and Roger Goodell have gone before a federal judge in an appeal of Brady's suspension.

Don't you think federal judges have better things to do?

Burglary

One of my overnight aides recently had their home robbed while they were here.

It's too bad.

Computer Problem

I had a devil of a time getting online today.

Gabby and I fiddled with it for a long time to no avail.  She finally called Comcast tech support, and here I am.

Pirates Sweep

My Pirates swept the Dodgers this weekend, firmly establishing themselves as one of the best teams in baseball.

They have a tough week ahead, though.  They play the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets.

Go Bucs

My Pirates have a big series with the Los Angeles Dodgers this weekend.  A series sweep by either team would be pretty big.

I think I'll get to watch all three games, too.

Gabby

My aide Gabby told me yesterday August 14 is her last day with me.  She took over when Philip left and quickly became someone I knew I could count on.

I hope the next aide is as good.

Tom Brady

The NFL commissioner has kept Tom Brady's suspension at four games.

Of course he has.  He wants Brady's first game to be against the Colts.  The whole suspension is a made-for-TV decision.

Disabled Plates

Going through my apartment complex, I've noticed a few disabled license plates.

I've also noticed several out-of-state plates.  We seem to have a varied bunch here.

Paris

There's a climate change conference in Paris in December, and the movement that started in my Hawaii conference last year is planning to be there, to broaden our base of support.

I'm happy things continue to move forward.

Yodit

My aide Yodit has a huge family wedding this weekend, so she won't be working her usual shifts here.  One of my other regular nighttime aides will take over.

He's a good aide, but I will miss her.

Email

I only had 6 emails waiting for me today.

It's odd how that number fluctuates.

Somebody Who Matters

In a commercial for a new CBS show this fall, the hero is told to take a pill so he can become "somebody who matters."  Well, he's already somebody who matters.  We all are. The major religions tell us that.  Science tells us we are all unique creations in the universe.  That matters.  The essence of democracy is that everyone has a right to weigh in on public policy concerns.  We are all equal as citizens.  We all matter.

It's too bad CBS seems willing to skip over all that.

Aides

My daytime aide company is still trying to put together a permanent aide rotation for me.  That will get more difficult when the aide with the most hours now goes back to college in a couple weeks.

I hope they can keep it to two or three aides.

Saturday

This past Saturday, I'm told, the aide company didn't have anyone to cover the first shift.  My regular aide happened to call in, and she was free, so she came.

It was lucky for me that she called.

Hillary

If Hillary Clinton is such a lead pipe cinch to be elected president next year, why are there 16 Republicans, and maybe more, and at least four other Democrats in the race?  Most of those people are experienced politicians who presumably wouldn't waste their time on what they thought was an unwinnsble campaign.

Just a thought.

Good News

I went to the urologist this morning for a scope, and I'm still cancer free.

I'm in the yearly check up phase of the treatment now, which will likely last the rest of my life.  It's not fun, but given everything, it's not terrible.

My Bucs

My Pirates are off to a slow start since the All-Star game, but I think they'll be okay.

They still have one of the best records in the majors.

Nervous Week

I'm feeling as well now as I have in years, but I go to the urologist for a scope Thursday morning.

I don't see why that shouldn't go well, but I'll be glad when it's over.

Wet Stuff

We've had a very wet July so far, but the weather people are saying the next few days should be dry.

California is finally getting substantial rains, too, which is good.

Back To School

Gabby, who has become one of my main aides, will be leaving soon to go back to college at IU in Bloomington.

Hopefully, they'll find someone as good to take her hours.

Baseball

The second half of the baseball season begins today, and my Pirates are in good position to make a run.

I think they have a good chance to win it all.

A Good Day

I watched the baseball All-Star Game, and the New Horizons flyby of Pluto seems to have been a complete success.

Yesterday was a good day.

More Storms

We had some big storms move through overnight.  There was plenty of lightning.

Fortunately, my place didn't lose power.  I saw on the news this morning that others did.

Storms

A storm has just about passed through here.

It was no big deal, but another storm is supposed to come through tonight.

ILD

The push to return to the Moon, which got a boost from my Hawaii conference last year, continues to move ahead.  A proposal for an International Lunar Decade to focus attention and resources on developing the Moon, which was adopted at the conference, is gaining support internationally.

I'm very pleased.

Strike Two

Well, that top agent rejected my second novel.  I guess that's why she's a top agent.

Maybe I'll try one more with her.

Adjusting

I don't know if the company has worked out a permanent schedule to replace Philip yet, but it has done well by me so far in the aides it has sent.

I'm adjusting.

Emails

I've been getting 20 or 30 emails a day lately.  Today, I had 8.

Go figure.

Wildlife

So far this summer I've seen ducks, geese, smaller birds, rabbits. and squirrels in this apartment complex.  I'm pretty sure there are other species around, too, like chipmunk and skunk.  Many dogs live here, too, which probably keep the wildlife on its toes.

It's a nice place.

Visit

My brother Joe and his wife Robin came for a visit on their way from Lima, Ohio, to Chicago.

We had a good time.

More Agent Stuff

I sent that same agent another query for another of my novels yesterday.  A couple hours later she asked to read the full manuscript.  I'm thinking if the first novel I sent her had been a disaster she wouldn't have asked to see another one.

We'll see what happens.

Rejected

Well, that big literary agent who asked to read one of my novels rejected it.

So, I just have to keep plugging away.

The Martian.

I'm reading a novel called THE MARTIAN.  A movie based on it will be out soon, starring Matt Damon.  It's the author's first novel.

Must be nice.

Gabby

A young woman named Gabby seems to be taking over as my main daytime aide.

We're still learning about each other, but she's a nice person eager to help, so she should work out fine.

Jordan

Jordan was here as my aide again today.  I really didn't think she'd be here again after last week, as her baby is due any time.

I doubt I'll see her again any time soon.  That will be my loss.

Crazy Signatures

One of my aide companies has a silly new procedure.  I have to "sign" an ipad before the aide leaves.  Well, what I do is different every time, and anybody could do what I do, so the company gets no reliable information from it.

Just another way to pester me.

My Pirates

My Pirates got off to a slow start this season, but they've come on strong, and now they're doing quite well.

Hopefully, they'll make the playoffs again this season.

Door Code

My aide company changed my door code when Philip was fired as a security measure.  That's fine, but aides have had trouble getting in.  The aide today had to have maintenance staff let her in.  Those aides presumably weren't given the new code.

Communications seems to be an issue.

Baby Time

An aide I've had recently-- who was once a regular aide for me-- is really pregnant.  As I understand it, the baby could come any time now.

Jordan was here Friday, and I thought that would probably be the last time for a while, but she was here again today.  We'll see when she comes back.

Junk Email

I had 26 emails waiting for me today.  All junk.

It's disappointing to go down that list and find nothing interesting.

Odd Happening

Last night I had to get up about 4 o'clock to use the bathroom.  I haven't had to do that in months.

I guess it was just one of those things.

Replacing Philip

So far, replacing the hours Philip worked is taking four or five aides.

It's working pretty well, but I hope we can cut that number a bit.

Possible Opportunity

A major literary agent in New York City is currently reading one of my novels.  If she agrees to represent it, there's probably a good chance she'll be able to sell it to a publisher.

Hopefully, something will work out.

Philip

Philip is no longer employed by my aide company.  It seems the situation involved more than a traffic accident.

So now I have to start all over, getting accustomed to new aides.

No Word On Philip

The company that employs my aide Philip tells me it has no information about his situation.

That's odd.  It surely has to know when he might be back in order to make plans.  Of course, maybe the company just doesn't want to tell me what it knows-- but then why lie to me.

Still Unsettled

My aide situation is still unsettled, but it's working out so far.

I don't like the uncertainty, but this time it couldn't be helped.

No Word Yet

No word yet on my aide Philip.

So far, things have gone smoothly enough, but I do hope Philip is okay and gets back soon.

Philip

My main aide Philip was in a traffic accident this morning.

I don't know yet how serious it was or when he might be back.

Visit

My brother Jon and his girl Callie came over for a visit this morning.

Callie did a great job in kindergarten and is headed into first grade.  She is also a budding basketball player.

Ducks

Outside this morning, we got within ten or fifteen feet of a couple ducks waddling along before they quacked and flew away.

Pretty neat.

Email

I had 33 emails waiting when I got online today.

Most of them were junk, but that's still double what I usually get.

Software Tick

I had some trouble doing this blog today.  The software in this site wasn't cooperating.

It's always something.

Annoying

Recently when I've gone to one of my websites, I've had to watch a commercial before it goes to the website's contents.  It's annoying.

I wonder if advertisers consider that annoying people might not be the best way to sell them your product.

Laughs

I watch a lot of the old western television series. and I'm struck by how often the main characters laugh.

All the shows are dramas, and they have the reputation of telling simplistic, violent stories.  Often, however, they use wit and humor and tell worthwhile human tales.  That's why they're still watched 50 and 60 years after the fact.

Novel

I'm spending a few days revising one of my novels.

Hopefully, some day, I can sell it.

Aide Vacation

One of my aides will be on vacation next week, but the company says it didn't know about it until yesterday.  She says she told her bosses weeks ago, and reminded them since.  She certainly told me about it weeks ago.

Though my aide situation has been better recently, at some point you have to conclude that company is not a model of efficiency.

Bedroom Window

When I go into my bedroom at night to go to bed or to take a shower in the bathroom off my bedroom, my aides always close the blinds in the window so nobody can see in.

There's nothing to see even if somebody were looking, which is doubtful, but I guess it's a good habit.

Television

I've taken to watching mostly sports, news, and old shows on television.  Very few new shows really interest me.

I must be getting old.

Roses

The rose bush outside my apartment has roses again.

After two consecutive harsh winters, it's a reminder of how resilient life is.

Lease

The rental lease for my apartment is up in July, but I intend to renew.

I've lived longer by myself here than I have anywhere else in my life.

Books

The two book clubs I've always used have changed the way they do business.  Now, instead of buying books directly, you have to buy credits each month and use the credits to get books.

I'll probably switch to Amazon.

Cold Shower

An aide who gives me a shower every week likes to tease me about taking a cold shower.  He says it'd be good for me.

I've declined.

Spoke Too Soon

No aide came for the afternoon shift yesterday, leaving me in a tough spot.

Clearly, the company still has work to do.

Aide Shifts

A regular aide has missed some shifts the past couple of days, but other aides have filled in very well.

The company in charge seems to be executing much better than it used to.

Sad Story

The CBS Evening News had a sad story last night.

A young boy was dying of cancer.  His parents arranged for the man who plays Big Bird to call the boy.  They talked, and the boy died soon thereafter.  He died happy, though, because Big Bird was his friend.

Gunk

For some reason I had the gunk in my throat again yesterday.  It's better today.

I think it's the temperature-- it got hot, then cool again.

Tom Brady

Tom Brady has been suspended 4 games next season for his part in deflating footballs in last season's AFC Championship game against the Colts.  His first game next season would be against the Colts.

Does anybody believe things just worked out that way?   It undermines the seriousness of the punishment to pay attention to such made-for-TV situations.

Ice Cream

I had some ice cream last night. 

I hadn't had any in months because I was afraid the milk would increase the gunk in my throat, but I took a shot last night, and I had no problem at all.

Power Blink

The power in my apartment blinked last night, but it seems to have only cut off the lights in my living room and bedroom.  My computer didn't go offline.

Odd.

Sad News

There was a traffic accident near the entrance to my apartment complex yesterday afternoon.

One person was killed.

Bugs

I've noticed several different kinds of bugs in my apartment recently.

I guess that comes with warm weather.

Good Weather

We finally have a stretch of good weather, just in time for the Indy 500.

Hopefully it will last through the race.

Aide Shift

My regular aide couldn't make the dinner shift last night, so the company sent an aide who comes on the weekend.

It worked well.  We have developed a small group of aides I can count on, which makes things much easier for me.

Easy Weekend

I had a pretty easy weekend.  Everything went well.

Hopefully, this week will continue that pattern.

Kentucky Derby

My brother Jeff is taking some business associates to the Kentucky Derby tomorrow.

It's pretty neat.

NFL Draft

The NFL draft starts tonight, but I haven't heard much about the Colts' plans.

I'd like to see them move up and get a top guy.

Amazon

I got an email from Amazon yesterday saying the book I ordered over the weekend has been shipped.

It was a really efficient process, better than the book clubs I use.

Skunk

It seems we have a skunk in the complex.  My aide opened the sliding door this morning, and I smelled that smell.

So, we not only have a skunk, we have a scared skunk.

Colts Draft

The NFL Draft is later this week.  My nephew Ben is really into that, and he says the Colts' first pick will be an offensive lineman.

That makes perfect sense to me.

New Scheduler

I'm getting a new scheduler at one of the aide companies.  The old one used to be my aide, so I trusted her.

I hope the new one does as good a job.

Foundation

The group that created and held the Next Giant Leap conference in Hawaii last year, of which I am a part, is now trying to form a foundation to continue to push our ideas.

I won't leave children behind when I die, but maybe I can leave something.

Bathroom Visits

My aides often spend more time in the bathroom when they're here than I do.

There's nothing wrong with that.  In fact, it's an encouraging change from when I used to spend hours in there trying to go.

Aide Company

An aide told me last night that one of the companies that supplies my aides has been named one of the best small companies in the state.

That surprised me, frankly, but more power to it.

Tim Tebow

It seems Tim Tebow is getting a chance to make the Philadelphia Eagles as a quarterback next season.

I hope it works out for him.  I'd love to see him shut some people up.

New Battery

It looks like I need a new battery for my power chair.  This battery supposed to be replaced in December, 2013, but I got an extra year out of it.

So, I probably won't be going out after supper for a while.

Pacers

The Pacers missed the playoffs, losing the last game of the season.

They had some major injuries, however, and they did a good job getting as close to the playoffs as they came.

TV Remotes

I'm having trouble with both of my TV remote controls.  One won't do anything, and the other won't control the volume.

It's frustrating.

BBC America

BBC America has removed BBC World News from its lineup.

It's odd.  The BBC is known worldwide for its news division.

Visit

My brother Jon, his wife Angela, and their little girl Callie came over to visit yesterday.

It was good to see them.

Baseball

The baseball season is off to a solid start.

My Pirates lost three games to the Reds, but they'll be fine.

Sucking

I'm having trouble drinking lately.  My mouth isn't working well.  It's hard to get it around the stem of the sippy cup so I can suck.

It's frustrating.

Weather Warning

I got a severe weather warning on my new cell phone this morning just before the same warning appeared on television.

That is going to be annoying.

Duke

Duke won the national championship last night, beating Wisconsin in a worthy title game.

Wisconsin had the game under control late in the second half, but couldn't close it out.  Duke made the shots when they counted most.

Dachshunds

I've noticed recently several television commercials are featuring dachshunds.

I've had three dachshunds in my life, and I love them.

On Wisconsin

I picked Wisconsin to win the men's college basketball championship from the start, and they're still in it.  So, I'm sticking with them.

It'll be Wisconsin and Duke in the final game.

Spring Weather

We're supposed to have heavy rain today and tomorrow, and possible snow flurries this weekend.

But, hey, major league baseball's regular season opens Sunday night, so all is well.

BBC

I was watching BBC World News this morning, and it had a report on the controversy surrounding Indiana's religious objection law.

So, we've hit the big time.

Robns

I saw my first two robins of the year this morning.

I'm taking that as a sign that winter is finally, finally over.

Final Four

I didn't do too well with my NCAA brackets.   I only got two of the Final Four.

I did pick Wisconsin to win it all. and the Badgers are still in it, so we'll see what happens.

Yodit's Back

My aide Yodit came back last night as scheduled, and she was just fine after being ill Sunday night.

It was good to see her healthy again.

Go Irish

Tonight, Notre Dame plays Wichita State in the Sweet 16.

The Irish are probably favored, and I think they'll win.

Phone

My sister Kim discovered New Year's Day that my cell phone wasn't working.  It's still not.  I'm getting a new one, but that hasn't happened yet.

Luckily, I had no emergencies this winter.

Sinuses Again

Well, the weather is finally changing into the spring and summer mode, and my sinuses are acting up again.

Hopefully, the changeover will be quick.

Yodit

My aide Yodit didn't feel at all well last night.

Hopefully she'll be much better before her next shift Thursday night.

So.............

Notre Dame and Butler won in the NCAA Tournament yesterday.  Purdue lost.

IU and Valparaiso have games later today.  I think they'll both probably lose.  IU probably would've been better off in the NIT this year.

Going Out

Spring arrives this weekend, and the weather is going along with that.

I'll start taking my power chair out after supper again soon.

Doctor Visit

I had my first appointment with my new primary physician this morning.  It went well.

He seems to be a nice guy, and the nurse who did the preliminary stuff was nice, too.

Notes

Notes have been placed around my apartmwnt, reminding my aides to do things they should be doing, anyway.

It gives the place an institutional feel, but I guess it's okay.

The Big Dance

Five teams from Indiana made it to the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament this year, after none made it last year.

Notre Dame is the highest seed of the five, and probably has the best chance to win some games.  In fact, I'd make the Irish a dark horse to win it all.

Tournament Hoops

IU and Notre Dame won in their conference tournaments last night, but Butler lost.

All three, plus Purdue, will likely get in the NCAA tournament.

Snoozing

After supper, I often lie on my couch to watch television.  When I do, though, I often fall asleep.  Sometimes, I don't even hear the overnight aide come in.

I'm getting old.

Good Day

Yesterday was a good day.  My muscle control was sharp, and doing whatever I wanted was relatively easy.

I have fairly few days like that, so it felt good.

Feeling Better

I'm beginning to feel better as the weather improves.  My mouth is healing after the dental visit, and my throat is largely clear of the gunk.

Hopefully, I can start eating ice cream again soon.

Tom Crean

Some people seem to be calling for IU basketball coach Tom Crean to be fired after a rough end to the regular season.

That's silly, if it's based strictly on the record.  This team lacks the size to really compete, but Crean is a really good college coach.

Winter's Last Gasp?

According to television, the weather will warm after another cold night last night.  Temperatures in the 50s are expected next week.

This winter has been even colder than last winter, so they say, though with less snow.  We certainly could use an early spring.

Sore Mouth

About every time I go to the dentist, my mouth is sore for a few days afterwards, presumably from them mucking around in there.

It's the same this time.

Indiana Weather

More snow is on the way, to be followed by temperatures in the 50s, which will cause flooding.

It's amazing, but it's Indiana weather.

NCAA Hoops

IU and Iowa play tonight in a game that could lock up a NCAA Tournament bid for the winner.  If both teams are playing well, it could be a spectacular game. 

I'm looking forward to it.

More Snow

We had another big snowstorm over the weekend.  March is here, however, and temperatures are supposed to reach the 40s this week, so the snow shouldn't stay long.

Hopefully, this will be the last big snow till next winter.

Almost Over

We often have some fairly nice days in February in Indiana, but this month has had precious few of those.

I'll be glad to see March.

Dentist

I went to the dentist today and had four tiny cavities filled.  He's been watching them for years and finally decided to fix them.

Everything went well.

Urination Issue

I'm still having some days when I don't urinate for many hours.

I don't think it's a problem, but something I'll have to get used to.  I wish I could go when I decided to go.

Scheduling

I have a dental appointment and a medical appointment coming up later this week.

Cockamamie scheduling, given the weather we have and the weather we're predicted to have.

Poweer Blip.

I lost power for a second or two in my kitchen, dining area, and living room last night, but not in my office or bedroom.

I just hope I don't lose power for any length of time in this cold.

COZI-TV

I accidentally found a new television channel this morning that runs old shows, including old westerns.  It seems to be connected somehow to WTHR.

So, I'll be exploring it further.

Today Is The Day

Baseball spring training opens today in Arizona and Florida for pitchers and catchers.

So, the weather notwithstanding, winter is coming to an end.  The Boys of Summer are on their way back.

It's A Beagle

A beagle took the top prize at the Westminster Dog Show this year.

I especially love the hounds, so I was happy the little gal won.

Westminster

I watched the Westminster Dog Show last night, as I do each year.  I love seeing all the breeds.

The show ends tonight, and I'll be watching.

Long February

Forecasters are now saying the weather will remain really cold for the rest of the month.

It's going to be a long February.

Cold

It's really cold today, and more cold and storms are on the way.

We're at the point, however, when we can reasonably hope this might be the last big event of winter.

New Aide

I had a replacement aide this morning.  She was good, but things went very slowly.

If she keeps coming back, hopefully things will speed up.

Mom

Today would have been Mom's 81st birthday.  Her family and friends miss her terribly.

It's a difficult day for us.

Fourteen Hours

Yesterday I didn't urinate for fourteen hours.

The discomfort never became real pain, but I want to reach the point where I can go when I want to, not just when I really need to.

Getting Closer

We had a nice, mild weekend here, and pitchers and catchers report to major league spring training camps next week.

Winter is not over, but we're getting there.

NCAA Hoops

Indiana had no teams in the NCAA men's basketball tournament last year, but that should change this year.

Notre Dame should be a lock, and Butler probably is, too.  IU  and Purdue both have good shots, as well.

Computer Problem

I had a hard time getting my computer to work today.  My aide Dennise and I kept fiddling with it till we got it to work.

I hate it when you have to try to outsmart a machine.

Looking For An Agent

I've started a new round of looking for a literary agent to represent my novels.  I finally decided the one I had wasn't working out.

Hopefully, something will happen soon.

Baseball

The bad news is that another snowstorm seems to be on the way.  The good news is that major league baseball spring training camps open in a couple weeks, which means winter is on the way out.

I've always been intrigued by this time of year.  In Indiana, we probably still have hard winter ahead, but the promise of spring is also growing steadily/

Patriots Win

The Patriots won a terrific Super Bowl last night after Seattle blew a critical play call.

I'd say this probably ends the Seahawks' run.

Super Bowl Pick

The Super Bowl is Sunday night, so I'll make my pick today.

I'll say it'll be Seahawks 24, Patriots 20.

Yogurt

I had my first yogurt in a couple weeks last night, and it went okay.

Maybe I can ease back into eating diary again.

Email

When my computer dings telling me I have email, I tend to assume it's a response to an email I just sent.  Of course, it's usually not.

After all these years, you'd think I'd know better.

Dennise

My new aide Dennise seems to be good with tools,   She brought some from home and fixed the brakes on my wheelchair. 

She's a very good aide, too.

Long Afternoon

My daytime aide provider failed, again, to send somebody out here until dinner shift Saturday.

This time, though, it did notify the other aide provider I use of its failure before the fact.  I guess that's progress.

Back To Normal

I have my regular aide rotation back in place, which is a good thing.

The other aides did fine, but I'm more comfortable with the ones I know.

Deflate Gate

The Patriots may have used illegally deflated balls in their game against the Colts last week.

Brlichick is known for such stunts, which is too bad.  They're good enough to win without that stuff.

Computer Screen

My computer screen has acted up yesterday and today.  It hasn't come on without fiddling.

Once on, though, it's been okay.  I don't get it.

Improvising

My regular aide has car troubles this week, so we're mixing and matching with some new aides.

It's not my favorite thing.

Colrs Done

The Colts were blasted last night in the AFC Championship game, 45-7.

They had a really good season, but they clearly have weaknesses to fix before they can really compete with the big boys.

Tough Time

I had another vomiting incident last night.  It's the phlegm problem.  I feel okay otherwise, except being a bit queasy.  A hard cough can bring stuff up.

This is the worst this problem has been in a few years.

Little Sick

I threw up a little again this morning, but I think it was due to my mistake.  I drank an Ensure, which is milk based, for breakfast.  Milk, especially in the morning, creates more gunk in my throat and sometimes makes me throw up.

I feel okay.

Warm Up Coming

The weather guys say the temperature Saturday might hit 50 after a really cold start to 2015.

That's good.  Getting out of January without some winter weather calamity is the objective, and we're about halfway there.

Buckeyes Prevail

Ohio State won the national championship in college football last night-- with a third string quarterback, no less-- by pounding on Oregon, 42-20.

My brother in Lima, Ohio, is no doubt happy, and I'm pleased a traditional Big 10 football power won it.

Colts Advance

The  Colts beat the Broncos in Denver yesterday and will play the Patriots in Foxboro next week for the AFC championship.

If the Colts play their best, they have a shot.  Otherwise, it could get ugly.

Terror

The double terrorist situation in France seems to be over, with all the terrorists killed.

Coupled with the cyber attack on Sony Pictures for making a comedy about assassinating North Korea's dictator, there seems to be a direct assault on fundamental Western values by those who would deny to everyone save themselves freedom of speech-- political, artistic, and religious.  In that case, proportional responses may not be enough.

New Aide

Another new aide came last night to be shown the ropes, and she did just fine.

She starts on her own next week, and I think I'll be comfortable with her.

Root For The Ravens

If the Colts and the Ravens win this weekend, the Colts would host the AFC Championship game.

That would give the Colts a good shot at the Super Bowl.

First Snow

We had the first big snow of the season last night, and real cold is settling in for the next few days.

I wouldn't be at all disappointed if this is the worst cold snap we have this winter.

Colts Advance

The Colts won their first round playoff game yesterday fairly easily,  beating Cincinnati.

Next up are the Broncos in Denver,   If the Colts play their best, I think they have a good shot.

CBS4

Channel 4 has been the station of basketball, Sammy Terry, and Cowboy Bob for decaades.  Now, it's the Indianapolis CBS affiliate, and Channel 8 is largely on its own.

It's a strange world.