Happy New Year you all...... The operation appears to have been a success, and I am currently recovering at Karen's house. I have a drain tube that is scheduled to be removed in 2 weeks. I am still under the influence of narcotic pain meds, and don’t have much energy now. My plan is to do nothing for the next few days.
I am once again thankful for the kindness of my friends.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
December 23, 2010
OK, there is good news and bad news..... the good news, I am going to get my belly fixed on Dec. 29, thus saving a large deductible. The bad news is that I am going to get my belly fixed on Dec. 29, thus being out of commission for the new year celebration.
I am really not feeling chipper right now, so I will keep this short and sweet..... Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to my family, my friends, and all of my faithful readers.
I am really not feeling chipper right now, so I will keep this short and sweet..... Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to my family, my friends, and all of my faithful readers.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
December 4, 2010
The best possible news..... Cancer has not returned...... I just had my yearly check up, and received an “all clear”. I do not have to get my affairs in order, and can continue to live my usual disorderly life. I only wish that I could get an “all clear” on my financial check up as well.
It is an unsettling routine... go once a year, to see if you get to renew your lease on life, or get a 12 month notice to vacate your body. Maybe I should start a “bucket list” anyway.
I also found out that I need to go back into the hospital to get my belly fixed. The layers that were separated to install the mesh to fix my hernia, never properly healed. I now have about a gallon of fluid sloshing around between those layers. It is uncomfortable, and is ruining my normally slim figure.
I am going to try to have this done before the first of the year. Jan. 1, I am into a new year of deductibles..... I save a much needed $5000 if they can fit me in this year. Of course, this means that my plans to vacation in Az this winter may need to be abandoned.
Once again, “staying alive” is interfering with “living life”......
It is an unsettling routine... go once a year, to see if you get to renew your lease on life, or get a 12 month notice to vacate your body. Maybe I should start a “bucket list” anyway.
I also found out that I need to go back into the hospital to get my belly fixed. The layers that were separated to install the mesh to fix my hernia, never properly healed. I now have about a gallon of fluid sloshing around between those layers. It is uncomfortable, and is ruining my normally slim figure.
I am going to try to have this done before the first of the year. Jan. 1, I am into a new year of deductibles..... I save a much needed $5000 if they can fit me in this year. Of course, this means that my plans to vacation in Az this winter may need to be abandoned.
Once again, “staying alive” is interfering with “living life”......
Monday, November 1, 2010
November 1, 2010
Well, it has been quite a while since I posted here. I keep waiting for inspiration, but nothing seems important enough to publish, I guess if I am not traveling or having major medical problems, my life is just boring.
I have just passed my 60th birthday...... officially old. I was gong to say that I don’t feel this old, but that is not really true, I guess it would be more accurate to say that I am surprised to be this old. It seems just yesterday that I was young and tough.... willing and able to do anything. I spent an unusual amount of my time doing dangerous jobs and playing at dangerous hobbies. I had many close calls, some that caused great pain, and some that just made a good story to tell around the campfire. Maybe it is because I have been lucky my whole life, and am surprised when I start to have some of the problems that are expected at this stage of life. I don’t know, maybe everyone feels this way..... however, this is not what I expected.
Another birthday, my neo-bladder is now 1 year old. I am not sure how the time line for this goes, but my new bladder seems to have passed the rebellious and unpredictable stage of youth, and has fallen into line as another hard working organ, doing its part to sustain life. I can't begin to describe how happy this makes me.
I am still having some minor issues with my hernia repair. Trying to lift things like I used to causes setbacks, and am afraid to enter situations that may require abdominal effort. Minor repairs in a vacant rental unit are taking 4 times as long as expected, and I have had to cancel a kayak trip. Going and hoping for the best wouldn’t be fair to the group. Too much too soon, or an imposed change in lifestyle?
In any event, I woke up this morning, and am able to go out and do some useful things. Today it seems so simple, “look on the bright side”, “the glass is half full”. Today, to quote the tee shirt, Life Is Good......
I have just passed my 60th birthday...... officially old. I was gong to say that I don’t feel this old, but that is not really true, I guess it would be more accurate to say that I am surprised to be this old. It seems just yesterday that I was young and tough.... willing and able to do anything. I spent an unusual amount of my time doing dangerous jobs and playing at dangerous hobbies. I had many close calls, some that caused great pain, and some that just made a good story to tell around the campfire. Maybe it is because I have been lucky my whole life, and am surprised when I start to have some of the problems that are expected at this stage of life. I don’t know, maybe everyone feels this way..... however, this is not what I expected.
Another birthday, my neo-bladder is now 1 year old. I am not sure how the time line for this goes, but my new bladder seems to have passed the rebellious and unpredictable stage of youth, and has fallen into line as another hard working organ, doing its part to sustain life. I can't begin to describe how happy this makes me.
I am still having some minor issues with my hernia repair. Trying to lift things like I used to causes setbacks, and am afraid to enter situations that may require abdominal effort. Minor repairs in a vacant rental unit are taking 4 times as long as expected, and I have had to cancel a kayak trip. Going and hoping for the best wouldn’t be fair to the group. Too much too soon, or an imposed change in lifestyle?
In any event, I woke up this morning, and am able to go out and do some useful things. Today it seems so simple, “look on the bright side”, “the glass is half full”. Today, to quote the tee shirt, Life Is Good......
Thursday, September 16, 2010
September 16, 2010
I am so excited, I have something to report...... I am about to settle my dispute with Health Net. Health Net, as you may remember, misled me into getting cancer treatment at an “out of network” hospital, and then refused to pay about $70,000 in charges for 2 surgeries preformed at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. (This is my side of the argument, theirs is somewhat different.)
HN is not going to pay the bill, but they are going to pay my legal bills to date, defend me in the lawsuit that UPMC will bring against me, and pay any judgement that arises from the lawsuit.
I don’t really see why this is good for HN. I do owe the money to UPMC, (after all, I did sign everything that they put in front of me leading up to the surgery) and they should be able to get a judgment easily. It could be that HN is just using the cost of litigation as a negotiating tool, or just trying to put off payment for a few years.
While this is very good news..... it still leaves me with ruined credit, and having to deal with the legal system for the next couple of years. In any event, this is better than being stuck with the whole bill.
I am making a fairly rapid recovery from my hernia surgery..... I can’t laugh, lift, or cough at this point, but am nearly off of pain meds, and seem to be getting better. I will see where I am after I see the Doc. in a few weeks.
Please join me in a moment of silence for the loss of my navel..... it is not as bad as losing another major organ, but still...... I mean it really didn’t do much except collect lint, but I had it for a long time, and my belly looks a bit empty without it.
HN is not going to pay the bill, but they are going to pay my legal bills to date, defend me in the lawsuit that UPMC will bring against me, and pay any judgement that arises from the lawsuit.
I don’t really see why this is good for HN. I do owe the money to UPMC, (after all, I did sign everything that they put in front of me leading up to the surgery) and they should be able to get a judgment easily. It could be that HN is just using the cost of litigation as a negotiating tool, or just trying to put off payment for a few years.
While this is very good news..... it still leaves me with ruined credit, and having to deal with the legal system for the next couple of years. In any event, this is better than being stuck with the whole bill.
I am making a fairly rapid recovery from my hernia surgery..... I can’t laugh, lift, or cough at this point, but am nearly off of pain meds, and seem to be getting better. I will see where I am after I see the Doc. in a few weeks.
Please join me in a moment of silence for the loss of my navel..... it is not as bad as losing another major organ, but still...... I mean it really didn’t do much except collect lint, but I had it for a long time, and my belly looks a bit empty without it.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
September 11, 2010
Well folks, I have once again survived the US medical system. I am at home, have no tubes coming out of me, all systems are working somewhat normally, and am resting uncomfortably under the influence of dangerous narcotics.
The plan is to feel better and better until this is just a distant memory. I want to thank all of you for you prayers and kind thoughts.
I will try to post more as energy permits.....
The plan is to feel better and better until this is just a distant memory. I want to thank all of you for you prayers and kind thoughts.
I will try to post more as energy permits.....
Thursday, September 9, 2010
August 9, 2010
Evening! I just wanted to update everyone on how John is doing. He's still in the hospital, although the surgery went well. He may be released tomorrow if he can move around a little more. He's not up to talking on the phone, and hopes everyone understands that he will be ready in a day or so. But he is fine. - Karen
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
August 8, 2010
Good morning! John went through his surgery very well, although it was delayed by several hours. He should be going home tomorrow or Friday at the latest. Since he did not get out of recovery until about 8:30 last night, I'm not sure which day it will be. - Karen
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
September 6, 2010
OK, Not much to report....... I am entering the hospital Tues. morning at 9:00 AM to have a hernia repaired. They are planning to embed a piece of “mesh” to bind my abdominal muscles together. I have not researched this process at all, but I am told that it is routine.
I do not expect this to be very complicated, or expect to be in there more than 2-3 days. People do this every day, it is just not a big deal. OK, that is what I think..... What I feel is much different, anxiety is seeping out of every pore, and relaxation is totally out of the question. Logic is apparently unable to override the subconscious that remembers the aftermath of the last time that I did something like this...... The problem, it seems, is that the whole dam thing is so totally counter-intuitive. OK, I know that this is the right thing to do, but once again, it feels like I have signed up for a knife fight.
I am never sure if it is helpful to whine about my “feelings”. It seems that it is not very manly, you know, I should be fearless, bring it on, I can take anything, I’m so tough that nothing bothers me.... In most respects, it is really not useful information regarding my medical condition, however, it is part of the whole experience. I do, however, also feel a duty to others that are following this blog, who are in similar circumstances, who need to know that these things can seem ominous and overwhelming. It may be comforting for them to know that others are fearful and undecided, but still get through it ok.
In any event, Karen will be posting updates on my condition on this blog, and I will be making and accepting phone calls as soon as I can kick the upcoming drug habit.
I do not expect this to be very complicated, or expect to be in there more than 2-3 days. People do this every day, it is just not a big deal. OK, that is what I think..... What I feel is much different, anxiety is seeping out of every pore, and relaxation is totally out of the question. Logic is apparently unable to override the subconscious that remembers the aftermath of the last time that I did something like this...... The problem, it seems, is that the whole dam thing is so totally counter-intuitive. OK, I know that this is the right thing to do, but once again, it feels like I have signed up for a knife fight.
I am never sure if it is helpful to whine about my “feelings”. It seems that it is not very manly, you know, I should be fearless, bring it on, I can take anything, I’m so tough that nothing bothers me.... In most respects, it is really not useful information regarding my medical condition, however, it is part of the whole experience. I do, however, also feel a duty to others that are following this blog, who are in similar circumstances, who need to know that these things can seem ominous and overwhelming. It may be comforting for them to know that others are fearful and undecided, but still get through it ok.
In any event, Karen will be posting updates on my condition on this blog, and I will be making and accepting phone calls as soon as I can kick the upcoming drug habit.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
August 24, 2010
Well, this is another “nothing to report” blog..... I do have a new address, not surprising to “full timers” and Gypsies, but somewhat unusual for normal people to understand. I am now living in town at my vacant lot on Spruce trail. I have a building permit for this lot, and must show progress every year to avoid losing the permit. So..... I put in the septic system, had the water meter turned on, and arranged to buy electricity from the neighbors.... all of the comforts.
I have been mostly stationary, but still have had a busy summer. It has been a surprise to me that nearly every weekend this summer there has been some event going on in Frazier Park, or one of the surrounding communities. Mostly, these have been remarkably well done given the limited resources of a small community. Car shows, wine tasting, theater under the stars, etc, all interesting, fun, and well worth doing. If I didn’t live here, I would want to visit.
My hernia surgery has been rescheduled for Sept. 7... apparently this is routine stuff, but still, I feel my anxiety level rising..... I guess that it is a bit Pavlovian.
My plan is to spend Oct and Nov. Healing and catching up on paper work, and be ready to travel by winter......
I have been mostly stationary, but still have had a busy summer. It has been a surprise to me that nearly every weekend this summer there has been some event going on in Frazier Park, or one of the surrounding communities. Mostly, these have been remarkably well done given the limited resources of a small community. Car shows, wine tasting, theater under the stars, etc, all interesting, fun, and well worth doing. If I didn’t live here, I would want to visit.
My hernia surgery has been rescheduled for Sept. 7... apparently this is routine stuff, but still, I feel my anxiety level rising..... I guess that it is a bit Pavlovian.
My plan is to spend Oct and Nov. Healing and catching up on paper work, and be ready to travel by winter......
Thursday, July 29, 2010
July 29, 2010
Well, it has been a while, and I keep waiting to be inspired..... I think that really good blogs require some emotional energy behind them. OK, that is not happening, but I want to let everyone know that I am alive a kicking, and I do have a bit of new information
I started this year with some huge problems to deal with, and now it seems that most of these are either solved, or about to be solved. This is great news.... but I find myself unprepared for “life after problems are solved”.
Historically, I consider the future, think about it from time to time, and let the back of my brain mull things over. Just keep adding information, and at some point, various plans begins to take shape, and are slowly refined and revealed as events unfold. I never really decided on this methodology, it just evolved. For most of my life, this has been my “mode of operation”, and has proved to be a fairly reliable way to run my planning department. (OK, I know that many of you could dispute this, and this method has produced some colossal mistakes, but it is all that I have.)
This year, my system has failed. For understandable reasons, I focused on the immediate issues, and spent no time or energy considering the future. As the big issues got resolved, I felt a great sense of relief, but found myself without a plan. Now it seems that I am wandering in circles, dazed, depressed, and disoriented.
Currently, I am scrambling to catch up with hundreds of small issues that have accumulated over the past year and a half, and am trying to formulate a reasonable plan for the next few years. Organized thinking, researching, and planning.... all are somewhat foreign to me.
There is another “fly in the ointment”....... the muscles in my abdomen have pulled apart at the site of my surgery. This allows my insides to bulge into the outside, and must be repaired surgically. The plan is to reinforce the area with some kind of fabric mesh.... as I understand it, this is a fairly common fix for a fairly common problem. This procedure is scheduled for Sept. 8, and will mean a few days in the hospital.
So, here is the problem..... Most of my income has come from activities that involve heavy lifting, and it is uncertain if I will ever be 100% again. I am not sure that I can ever again do the work that I am used to.
So, with the RE crash and my body falling apart, clearly, I need to find a new way to fund my lifestyle. I have some ideas, but, you know how it is with old dogs and new tricks.....
I started this year with some huge problems to deal with, and now it seems that most of these are either solved, or about to be solved. This is great news.... but I find myself unprepared for “life after problems are solved”.
Historically, I consider the future, think about it from time to time, and let the back of my brain mull things over. Just keep adding information, and at some point, various plans begins to take shape, and are slowly refined and revealed as events unfold. I never really decided on this methodology, it just evolved. For most of my life, this has been my “mode of operation”, and has proved to be a fairly reliable way to run my planning department. (OK, I know that many of you could dispute this, and this method has produced some colossal mistakes, but it is all that I have.)
This year, my system has failed. For understandable reasons, I focused on the immediate issues, and spent no time or energy considering the future. As the big issues got resolved, I felt a great sense of relief, but found myself without a plan. Now it seems that I am wandering in circles, dazed, depressed, and disoriented.
Currently, I am scrambling to catch up with hundreds of small issues that have accumulated over the past year and a half, and am trying to formulate a reasonable plan for the next few years. Organized thinking, researching, and planning.... all are somewhat foreign to me.
There is another “fly in the ointment”....... the muscles in my abdomen have pulled apart at the site of my surgery. This allows my insides to bulge into the outside, and must be repaired surgically. The plan is to reinforce the area with some kind of fabric mesh.... as I understand it, this is a fairly common fix for a fairly common problem. This procedure is scheduled for Sept. 8, and will mean a few days in the hospital.
So, here is the problem..... Most of my income has come from activities that involve heavy lifting, and it is uncertain if I will ever be 100% again. I am not sure that I can ever again do the work that I am used to.
So, with the RE crash and my body falling apart, clearly, I need to find a new way to fund my lifestyle. I have some ideas, but, you know how it is with old dogs and new tricks.....
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010
Life in Frazier Park continues..... I am scrambling to catch up with hundreds of small and medium issues that have piled up over the last year and a half.
I joined some friends the weekend before last, to go kayaking and camping near June Lake, Ca. We paddled Gull lake and Silver lake, toured Bodie (probably the best ghost town in the country), and visited the museum in Lee Vining.
Probably the most interesting thing that happened was a chance encounter on the rough dirt road to Bodie. We came across a pair of motorcyclists that were towing small trailers, and were traveling from San Diego to Oregon and back. One of the trailers had a broken axle, and they were asking passers by if they had a hacksaw.
Lou, a McGiever clone, had a hacksaw in his truck, so we stopped to help. A road side T-post (apparently placed there to help broken down bikers) was used as a splint. It was held in place with 2 hose clamps (donated by Lou), some rope and an extra tie down strap (supplied by me), and...... wait for it....... duct tape (donated by a passing cowhand). They were going to make better repairs when they got to Bridgeport.
As we all know, but tend to forget sometimes..... It feels good to get a little dirty, and do a good deed.
Under the category of “small world”...... I saw the same group at the mini mart in Frazier Park on July 2. They were on the way back to San Diego, and you guessed it, the jury rig repair was still in place. They said that it worked well, and would be repaired when they reached home.
Click on the pictures for a better view.
I joined some friends the weekend before last, to go kayaking and camping near June Lake, Ca. We paddled Gull lake and Silver lake, toured Bodie (probably the best ghost town in the country), and visited the museum in Lee Vining.
Probably the most interesting thing that happened was a chance encounter on the rough dirt road to Bodie. We came across a pair of motorcyclists that were towing small trailers, and were traveling from San Diego to Oregon and back. One of the trailers had a broken axle, and they were asking passers by if they had a hacksaw.
Lou, a McGiever clone, had a hacksaw in his truck, so we stopped to help. A road side T-post (apparently placed there to help broken down bikers) was used as a splint. It was held in place with 2 hose clamps (donated by Lou), some rope and an extra tie down strap (supplied by me), and...... wait for it....... duct tape (donated by a passing cowhand). They were going to make better repairs when they got to Bridgeport.
As we all know, but tend to forget sometimes..... It feels good to get a little dirty, and do a good deed.
Under the category of “small world”...... I saw the same group at the mini mart in Frazier Park on July 2. They were on the way back to San Diego, and you guessed it, the jury rig repair was still in place. They said that it worked well, and would be repaired when they reached home.
Click on the pictures for a better view.
16 campsites
One of two that could accommodate a 36 ft. MH
In spite of the trees, I still had satellite internet and TV
One of two that could accommodate a 36 ft. MH
In spite of the trees, I still had satellite internet and TV
Silver Lake
Broken trailer up on lift
Broken axle
Preparing the axle graft
Repaired axle, ready to travel 2000 miles
Bodie
One of the nicer houses
Paula and Karen at the Methodist church
Monday, June 14, 2010
June 14, 2010
This week finds me mostly healthy and happy.
Once again an interesting weekend, and of course, once again I forgot the camera. But being the resourceful guy that I am, I imposed on my friend Carl to record the grand event.
The event was the wedding (yes, some people still get married) of my friends Kelly and Ellie.... Do not stop reading here!! It is not like a slide presentation of a family reunion.
The wedding was held at a friends (a very remarkable couple) house near the top of an 8000 ft. mountain.... 4 miles of dirt road, 3000 ft. elevation gain, way off of the grid, solar powered, and all self contained. As you might guess, snow plays a leading role in "Life on the Mountain". The pictures will speak for themselves. (Click on the pics. for a better view)
The ceremony, and a view of Lockwood Valley.... My land is located in the small clear area at the upper, center of the picture. Frazier park is to the left of the tree. (In true Frazier Park style, Kelly chose to go with casual dress)
View of Cuddy Valley, and the comunity of Pinion Pines (West of Frazier Park, at the center of Pic.)
View of the house from the East
View of house from the South
Solar power.... over 2000 watts
Very serious snow plow
8 wheel drive!!! actually rides on top of the snow
And me
Once again an interesting weekend, and of course, once again I forgot the camera. But being the resourceful guy that I am, I imposed on my friend Carl to record the grand event.
The event was the wedding (yes, some people still get married) of my friends Kelly and Ellie.... Do not stop reading here!! It is not like a slide presentation of a family reunion.
The wedding was held at a friends (a very remarkable couple) house near the top of an 8000 ft. mountain.... 4 miles of dirt road, 3000 ft. elevation gain, way off of the grid, solar powered, and all self contained. As you might guess, snow plays a leading role in "Life on the Mountain". The pictures will speak for themselves. (Click on the pics. for a better view)
The ceremony, and a view of Lockwood Valley.... My land is located in the small clear area at the upper, center of the picture. Frazier park is to the left of the tree. (In true Frazier Park style, Kelly chose to go with casual dress)
View of Cuddy Valley, and the comunity of Pinion Pines (West of Frazier Park, at the center of Pic.)
View of the house from the East
View of house from the South
Solar power.... over 2000 watts
Very serious snow plow
8 wheel drive!!! actually rides on top of the snow
And meAll in all, it was a perfect day..... the ceremony lasted less than 5 minutes, there was plenty of food, drink, and conversation, and I could wear a t-shirt.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
June 5, 2010
Life goes on..... My attorney dealing with my health insurance problem, is in the process of negotiating a settlement with Health Net. He sent them a demand for arbitration, and they expressed an interest in settling up. He sent them the same information that I had sent them, but he also discovered that they would have to pay for the arbitrator, ($400 per Hr.) and he appeared to be the expert that he is. I guess that they try to avoid payment, and try to settle if they get pushed..... Once again, not in good hands with the insurance co.
It has been busy here in lovely Frazier Park.... this weekend, we had a renaissance fair, and a custom car show. Since I am dry docked, and not traveling, I always forget to carry a camera. It was the best car show that I have ever attended. Apparently, car enthusiasts love to attend car shows, and it is sunny and cool up here on the mountain. There were over 100 entrants.... some of the best custom/hot rod cars in the country. There were also 10-15 movie cars. The bat mobile, ghost busters car, the Herbie Volkswagen's, the dukes of hazzard car, etc. If I was traveling, this would have been a highlight.
The renaissance fair was small but nice.... it is their first year, and they hope to make it an annual event.
Last weekend, there was a small town festival in a community about 12 miles further out into the mountains. It was all about lilacs, but had a parade, finger foods, craft booths, and lots of people that I don’t see often.
I read many blogs, (vicarious living at its best) and I have to credit Randy (Mobil Codger) for inspiration. He always seems to “get the story”. No matter where he is, he finds something or someone interesting. I guess that it didn’t occur to me that “here” would be interesting. I am going to agree that it is all about attitude.
It has been busy here in lovely Frazier Park.... this weekend, we had a renaissance fair, and a custom car show. Since I am dry docked, and not traveling, I always forget to carry a camera. It was the best car show that I have ever attended. Apparently, car enthusiasts love to attend car shows, and it is sunny and cool up here on the mountain. There were over 100 entrants.... some of the best custom/hot rod cars in the country. There were also 10-15 movie cars. The bat mobile, ghost busters car, the Herbie Volkswagen's, the dukes of hazzard car, etc. If I was traveling, this would have been a highlight.
The renaissance fair was small but nice.... it is their first year, and they hope to make it an annual event.
Last weekend, there was a small town festival in a community about 12 miles further out into the mountains. It was all about lilacs, but had a parade, finger foods, craft booths, and lots of people that I don’t see often.
I read many blogs, (vicarious living at its best) and I have to credit Randy (Mobil Codger) for inspiration. He always seems to “get the story”. No matter where he is, he finds something or someone interesting. I guess that it didn’t occur to me that “here” would be interesting. I am going to agree that it is all about attitude.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
May 23, 2010
Owens River
Owens River
The base of Whitney
Japanese garden remnants at Manzanar internment camp
Mono lakeHappy days are here again..... for my creditors at least. The house sale is complete, and I can start paying my overdue bills on Monday. This past year has been an uphill run, and it is quite a relief to win one of the battles.
On the diabetes front, it looks like I have two choices..... a careful diet, and no medications, or a more relaxed diet, and moderate medication. So far, I am down to medication only once a day, and am trying to transition to no meds. It seems that my activity level makes a huge difference.
The “base of Whitney” expedition met with much early success, and was expanded to include the entire south eastern slope of the sierras. This grueling and dangerous undertaking included not just the natural terrain, (mountains, rivers, snow, hot springs, high winds, and lakes) but also man made obstacles such as restaurants, museums, and various retail outlets. It was exhausting, but well worth the effort.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
May 2, 2010
Hello all,
The good news is that there is not much news. My health continues to improve, and I have been able to work. There has only been a few times in my life that I have really enjoyed working, but now I feel blessed.
The 2 story house is sold.... well, in the process of being sold. I have sold it for less than replacement cost. I am a bit disappointed in the RE market right now, but am a bit happy that I have a buyer at all. Anyway, it should close in 2-3 weeks, and I will be able to pay some bills. I know that it doesn’t sound exciting, but really, it is.
Along with my health, my urge for adventure is returning as well..... Woo Hoo I am packing up the motor home and the kayaks, and heading for the Owens river for a week of camping (I know that it really isn’t camping) and paddling. The Owens river is, coincidentally, in the Owens valley, which is on the eastern side of the Sierra mountain range. The valley is at about 4000 ft. elevation, and is over seen by Mt. Whitney which is over 14,000 ft. elevation. This makes the Owens valley the deepest valley in the USA.
I remember the Win women, Claudia, Nancy, and friend (forgot the name) hiked to the top of Whitney, so I plan to maintain the honor of the Win men by exploring the bottom of Whitney. I mean...... the top is very small, and the bottom, well, it is so very large and deep, and much more difficult to explore...... I expect this feat to be accomplished in only one grueling day. Starting out in Santa Clarita, I expect to maintain a 60 MPH pace for the first 2 1/2 - 3 hours, (difficult, but doable) then a rest stop for lunch at a local restaurant, see the sights, and then another 2 hour sprint to the campground at Bishop.
I know that this is an ambitious schedule, and I have been sick and unable to train properly, but I really think that I can do this, and crave that wonderful sense of accomplishment that follows any difficult endeavor.
The Owens valley is just full of good things to do and see.... many old western movies were shot in the Alabama Hills, which is an area just outside of Lone Pine, that is dominated by huge piles of huge boulders.... picture the good guys being ambushed by the bad guys. There was also a Japanese internment camp, ironically near a town named Independence, that was used during WWII. If you like geography, natural science, and history, it is a good place to spend time. I am going to try to leave early enough to at least tour the museum dedicated to the internment camp.
The California Kayak Friends have organized the trip, and are always good company.
The good news is that there is not much news. My health continues to improve, and I have been able to work. There has only been a few times in my life that I have really enjoyed working, but now I feel blessed.
The 2 story house is sold.... well, in the process of being sold. I have sold it for less than replacement cost. I am a bit disappointed in the RE market right now, but am a bit happy that I have a buyer at all. Anyway, it should close in 2-3 weeks, and I will be able to pay some bills. I know that it doesn’t sound exciting, but really, it is.
Along with my health, my urge for adventure is returning as well..... Woo Hoo I am packing up the motor home and the kayaks, and heading for the Owens river for a week of camping (I know that it really isn’t camping) and paddling. The Owens river is, coincidentally, in the Owens valley, which is on the eastern side of the Sierra mountain range. The valley is at about 4000 ft. elevation, and is over seen by Mt. Whitney which is over 14,000 ft. elevation. This makes the Owens valley the deepest valley in the USA.
I remember the Win women, Claudia, Nancy, and friend (forgot the name) hiked to the top of Whitney, so I plan to maintain the honor of the Win men by exploring the bottom of Whitney. I mean...... the top is very small, and the bottom, well, it is so very large and deep, and much more difficult to explore...... I expect this feat to be accomplished in only one grueling day. Starting out in Santa Clarita, I expect to maintain a 60 MPH pace for the first 2 1/2 - 3 hours, (difficult, but doable) then a rest stop for lunch at a local restaurant, see the sights, and then another 2 hour sprint to the campground at Bishop.
I know that this is an ambitious schedule, and I have been sick and unable to train properly, but I really think that I can do this, and crave that wonderful sense of accomplishment that follows any difficult endeavor.
The Owens valley is just full of good things to do and see.... many old western movies were shot in the Alabama Hills, which is an area just outside of Lone Pine, that is dominated by huge piles of huge boulders.... picture the good guys being ambushed by the bad guys. There was also a Japanese internment camp, ironically near a town named Independence, that was used during WWII. If you like geography, natural science, and history, it is a good place to spend time. I am going to try to leave early enough to at least tour the museum dedicated to the internment camp.
The California Kayak Friends have organized the trip, and are always good company.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
April 17, 2010
Hello to all of my loyal friends who still check my blog...... I fear that this blog may have lost it’s reason for being..... My health is returning, and health updates are less and less necessary. I suppose that this could morph into a general info / travel blog. I guess that time will tell.
I am now the owner of two nearly new houses..... WOO Hoo..... The paperwork was finally done, (a little over a year from the original default) and the foreclosure sale was completed on Tues. Morning, April 13. I am now busily cleaning and fixing, and trying to get these houses ready for rent and/or sale. It is good work for me, as it is not too strenuous, and I can rest when I need to.
I have finally removed myself from my “sick spot” across the street from my good friends Carl and Kathy. They can now see the mountains without a motor home in the foreground, and I am once again parked on land that I own. I have moved into the driveway of my new two story house that is for sale. 40 foot driveway, and 36 foot motor home.... with trailer hitch and bumpers, not much room left over.
For those of you that don’t have an RV, have never lived in super small space, and have never used your super small living space as a law office...... you absolutely must be well organized, and keep your living/working space neat... a place for everything, and everything in its place. It is best to straighten up every few days, keep your paper work up to date, and throw away all unnecessary items weekly. (One good way to accomplish this is to move your house every few weeks. This may be the reason that the Win’s travel so much..... just a thought.)
Now for my world.....
At my best, I am not well organized, neat, or prone to keep my paper work up to date. Add in being sick, tired and depressed for most of the last year, and include staying parked in the same spot for 6 months. In spite of the best efforts of my friends, what I had was a small living space disaster, and a motor home in crisis. I was way behind in routine maintenance, and I am sure that the legal papers alone put me over the recommended GVWR.
I will spare you the details, but I will mention that it took 2 days to get this old motor home ready to travel a few miles. I have now resolved, every 2-3 months at the longest, change my scenery and put on some miles. Yes indeed folks, an excellent reason to get out on the road again.....
I am now the owner of two nearly new houses..... WOO Hoo..... The paperwork was finally done, (a little over a year from the original default) and the foreclosure sale was completed on Tues. Morning, April 13. I am now busily cleaning and fixing, and trying to get these houses ready for rent and/or sale. It is good work for me, as it is not too strenuous, and I can rest when I need to.
I have finally removed myself from my “sick spot” across the street from my good friends Carl and Kathy. They can now see the mountains without a motor home in the foreground, and I am once again parked on land that I own. I have moved into the driveway of my new two story house that is for sale. 40 foot driveway, and 36 foot motor home.... with trailer hitch and bumpers, not much room left over.
For those of you that don’t have an RV, have never lived in super small space, and have never used your super small living space as a law office...... you absolutely must be well organized, and keep your living/working space neat... a place for everything, and everything in its place. It is best to straighten up every few days, keep your paper work up to date, and throw away all unnecessary items weekly. (One good way to accomplish this is to move your house every few weeks. This may be the reason that the Win’s travel so much..... just a thought.)
Now for my world.....
At my best, I am not well organized, neat, or prone to keep my paper work up to date. Add in being sick, tired and depressed for most of the last year, and include staying parked in the same spot for 6 months. In spite of the best efforts of my friends, what I had was a small living space disaster, and a motor home in crisis. I was way behind in routine maintenance, and I am sure that the legal papers alone put me over the recommended GVWR.
I will spare you the details, but I will mention that it took 2 days to get this old motor home ready to travel a few miles. I have now resolved, every 2-3 months at the longest, change my scenery and put on some miles. Yes indeed folks, an excellent reason to get out on the road again.....
Monday, April 12, 2010
April 12, 2010
Two weeks have passed, and I still feel pretty good.... My energy has returned, and good things are happening. The nightmare on Elm Street appears to be over. The opposing attorney has finally filed the order granting me relief from the automatic stay.... In english, the Elm property, that the debtor didn’t pay for, is now kicked out of the BK proceedings, and I can move forward with the foreclosure sale. I will now be able to sell, or rent the houses, and start to recover some of the money that was owed to me.
I have also found an attorney to handle the dispute with Health Net. He thinks that I have a good case, and is willing to take on this case on spec..... we don’t win, he doesn’t get paid. He gets one third of any settlement, which could have me winning, and still owing money to the hospital. I am hoping for the best.
I put in a septic tank on my vacant lot on Spruce Trail... this keeps my building permit alive for another year. I am also planning a short and easy kayak trip next month.
I feels so good to be looking forward with anticipation in stead of dread........
I have also found an attorney to handle the dispute with Health Net. He thinks that I have a good case, and is willing to take on this case on spec..... we don’t win, he doesn’t get paid. He gets one third of any settlement, which could have me winning, and still owing money to the hospital. I am hoping for the best.
I put in a septic tank on my vacant lot on Spruce Trail... this keeps my building permit alive for another year. I am also planning a short and easy kayak trip next month.
I feels so good to be looking forward with anticipation in stead of dread........
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
March 29, 2010
Ok, more time has passed, and not much has changed..... Well, there is one thing...... I feel better than I have in months, maybe more than a year.
My blood sugar level is under control, and I am beginning to have some energy. What a relief, I was beginning to think that I would never feel good again. I still do not have any stamina, but I think that will return as I am able to be more active.
I spent the day preparing for a “creditors meeting” tomorrow..... If I can’t get the opposing attorney to take care of business, I am going to file a request that the court find him in contempt. I don’t think that the judge will actually do it, but it should let me tell my story, (and annoy the opposing counsel) and the judge will probably give me my houses..... Of course, I have thought that before........
I am hoping that the dreary whiney posts are over for a while, and I can get back to doing interesting and useful things.........
My blood sugar level is under control, and I am beginning to have some energy. What a relief, I was beginning to think that I would never feel good again. I still do not have any stamina, but I think that will return as I am able to be more active.
I spent the day preparing for a “creditors meeting” tomorrow..... If I can’t get the opposing attorney to take care of business, I am going to file a request that the court find him in contempt. I don’t think that the judge will actually do it, but it should let me tell my story, (and annoy the opposing counsel) and the judge will probably give me my houses..... Of course, I have thought that before........
I am hoping that the dreary whiney posts are over for a while, and I can get back to doing interesting and useful things.........
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 18, 2010
Well, it has been a couple of weeks, and there is nothing much to report...... I have had some success getting my blood sugar level into the normal range. I am still surprised how debilitating a little chemical imbalance is. I have spent my time doing only the most necessary things, and sleeping. I am still trying to figure out how to survive on the recommended diet.... no sugar, no carbohydrates, no good.
I did manage to make the trip (planned and paid for long ago) to Pa. to see my folks, and go to the high school state wrestling tournament with my siblings. I managed to climb the stairs to and from our seats, but my brother had to wheel me into and out of the arena. Humbling, to say the least.
This was my first, and hopefully last, trip as handicapped..... The airline was most accommodating, but it sure felt strange.
My houses still aren’t mine yet..... the opposing counsel is dragging his feet, and causing unnecessary delays. I suppose that billing $500 per hour is reason enough for him.
My next goal is to try and get healthy....... it has been a while.
I did manage to make the trip (planned and paid for long ago) to Pa. to see my folks, and go to the high school state wrestling tournament with my siblings. I managed to climb the stairs to and from our seats, but my brother had to wheel me into and out of the arena. Humbling, to say the least.
This was my first, and hopefully last, trip as handicapped..... The airline was most accommodating, but it sure felt strange.
My houses still aren’t mine yet..... the opposing counsel is dragging his feet, and causing unnecessary delays. I suppose that billing $500 per hour is reason enough for him.
My next goal is to try and get healthy....... it has been a while.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
March 6, 2010
Well, finally something to be happy about....... I won my court case, and will be getting my houses back with in 2 weeks. It is an interesting story, that I am too tired to relate now, but the short version in..... they settled on the court house stairs, with some prodding from the judge.
It is almost 1 year exactly since they stopped paying the mortgage. Anyway, it will take some time, but I will be able to get my finances back in order, at least for a while.
Next is my dispute with my health insurance co.
It is almost 1 year exactly since they stopped paying the mortgage. Anyway, it will take some time, but I will be able to get my finances back in order, at least for a while.
Next is my dispute with my health insurance co.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
March 3, 2010
Ok, I will make this short and sweet.... Seems that I wasn’t just miserable sick, it really was life and death. I have type 2 diabetes. I went to the Dr. and found that my blood sugar level was to high to measure (over 600).... 4 shots of insulin later..... still to high to measure..... one more shot, and blood sugar was 475. Normal is about 100-180. I guess that my next symptom would have been coma and death.
I have been to worn out to do any research regarding this condition, but will try to get some info next week.
I am sure to join a “Fear of February” support group soon.
I have been to worn out to do any research regarding this condition, but will try to get some info next week.
I am sure to join a “Fear of February” support group soon.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
February 18, 2010
My how time flies..... it has been over 2 weeks. There is really nothing to report..... I have been sick for most of the last 2 weeks, not life and death sick, but miserable sick..... fever, flu, etc. I am on the mend, but still somewhat miserable.
I am busy preparing for my evidentiary hearing on March 5. I have made the 200 mile round trip through the center of LA twice in order to sit in on some similar hearings. It seems to me that it is the only way to get an idea of how a court room works, and it is fun watching the attorneys trying to figure out who I am and what I am doing there. At first, when asked, I would tell them the story, but now, I just say that I am there to observe, and then make a note as they turn away..... last time, someone thought I was a reporter. I know, it is a very small pleasure, but I have to take what I can get..... OK, I have been watching reruns of Perry Mason, and LA Law as well.
Anyway, in the last week, I have produced 4, 340 page books of exhibits.... ok, ok, 1 book and 3 copies. That might not sound too impressive, but remember, this is in my motor home office. It now looks like a scene cut out of the “odd couple” for being unbelievably cluttered.
Friday, the 19th, is the deadline to file declarations with the court, and exchange exhibits, and I think, witness lists, with the opposing counsel. The judge wants all direct testimony to be by declaration..... a lot of typing, but allows me to throw things in that I am sure would/will be objected to in open court. I mean, you can’t un-ring a bell..... and what do I know, I am not a lawyer.
It seems that this last month has been just like this past year...... unpleasant, but necessary. Grit your teeth, and keep on walking..... it will be over soon. I know that complaining doesn’t help, but sometimes I feel like Sisyphus, pushing the stone up the mountain every day..........
I am busy preparing for my evidentiary hearing on March 5. I have made the 200 mile round trip through the center of LA twice in order to sit in on some similar hearings. It seems to me that it is the only way to get an idea of how a court room works, and it is fun watching the attorneys trying to figure out who I am and what I am doing there. At first, when asked, I would tell them the story, but now, I just say that I am there to observe, and then make a note as they turn away..... last time, someone thought I was a reporter. I know, it is a very small pleasure, but I have to take what I can get..... OK, I have been watching reruns of Perry Mason, and LA Law as well.
Anyway, in the last week, I have produced 4, 340 page books of exhibits.... ok, ok, 1 book and 3 copies. That might not sound too impressive, but remember, this is in my motor home office. It now looks like a scene cut out of the “odd couple” for being unbelievably cluttered.
Friday, the 19th, is the deadline to file declarations with the court, and exchange exhibits, and I think, witness lists, with the opposing counsel. The judge wants all direct testimony to be by declaration..... a lot of typing, but allows me to throw things in that I am sure would/will be objected to in open court. I mean, you can’t un-ring a bell..... and what do I know, I am not a lawyer.
It seems that this last month has been just like this past year...... unpleasant, but necessary. Grit your teeth, and keep on walking..... it will be over soon. I know that complaining doesn’t help, but sometimes I feel like Sisyphus, pushing the stone up the mountain every day..........
Saturday, January 30, 2010
January 30, 2010
Well, here it is the end of Jan, and I have nothing other that a snow storm to report. It was a very wet and heavy 18-24 inches..... lots of fun. Eventually I did get up on the roof and push the snow off.
I am in contact with another “insurance lawyer”, he thinks that I may not fall under the erisa laws, and appears to be an expert in this area..... I have sent him about 5 lbs. Of paper, and will see if he wants to help me with this battle. He did tell me that I might end up owing a bunch of money, even if we win. You see, he gets his cut out of any settlement, and we may not get attorneys fees. The good part is that if we lose, I don’t owe him anything.
Health wise, I am doing OK..... some days are better than others, but the trend is still in the right direction.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
January 19, 2010
Well, time is passing, and I have nothing of interest to report......
Medically, I suppose that it is a good thing having nothing noteworthy going on. While I am still not 100%, I am feeling better and stronger every week.
It looks like I will not be able to go to Quartzsite this year, although I may be able to visit with the Win’s before they leave the Southwest. I plan to spend most of the next few months battling the BK court and my health insurance co....... I am hoping to have these things wrapped up by this summer.
This last year, for the first time in my life, I have had no long term plan. Most of my life, I have had a pretty good idea of what I would be doing for the next year. Being of modest means, and being addicted to living indoors and eating food, my plans mostly have revolved around work or business.
The extraordinary events of this past year have upset the normally predictable cadence of my life, and have left me floundering about. I am hoping that my life will fall into some kind of order, and be manageable once again.
Medically, I suppose that it is a good thing having nothing noteworthy going on. While I am still not 100%, I am feeling better and stronger every week.
It looks like I will not be able to go to Quartzsite this year, although I may be able to visit with the Win’s before they leave the Southwest. I plan to spend most of the next few months battling the BK court and my health insurance co....... I am hoping to have these things wrapped up by this summer.
This last year, for the first time in my life, I have had no long term plan. Most of my life, I have had a pretty good idea of what I would be doing for the next year. Being of modest means, and being addicted to living indoors and eating food, my plans mostly have revolved around work or business.
The extraordinary events of this past year have upset the normally predictable cadence of my life, and have left me floundering about. I am hoping that my life will fall into some kind of order, and be manageable once again.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
January 7, 2010
I arrived back in Frazier Park on Sunday, and decided to stay in town across from Carls house instead of going to Lockwood Valley. Since I have been recovering, Carl and I have gotten into the habit of watching football together, and...... well, the playoffs start this weekend.........
I had my 3 month follow up doctors appointment yesterday, and was found to be cancer free!!! They took samples, did several scans, and found nothing out of the ordinary. I was surprised by the relief that I experienced when hearing the good news, I guess that I had underestimated the anxiety that goes along with check-ups.
My next appointment will be next Dec...... I am thrilled that I get a year off.
I started this year with 4 big issues to deal with: staying alive, of course being the most important, insurance issues next, collecting money or property out of my debtors BK, and getting my finances in order. I guess, for now, I can take cancer off of the list.
A year ago, my finances were in pretty good order, and none of the other problems existed. I guess that this is an example of how quickly things can change. The choice seems simple, live consumed with fear and anger, or be happy that I am alive, and try to get the most out of every day. Seems like a no-brainer.......
I had my 3 month follow up doctors appointment yesterday, and was found to be cancer free!!! They took samples, did several scans, and found nothing out of the ordinary. I was surprised by the relief that I experienced when hearing the good news, I guess that I had underestimated the anxiety that goes along with check-ups.
My next appointment will be next Dec...... I am thrilled that I get a year off.
I started this year with 4 big issues to deal with: staying alive, of course being the most important, insurance issues next, collecting money or property out of my debtors BK, and getting my finances in order. I guess, for now, I can take cancer off of the list.
A year ago, my finances were in pretty good order, and none of the other problems existed. I guess that this is an example of how quickly things can change. The choice seems simple, live consumed with fear and anger, or be happy that I am alive, and try to get the most out of every day. Seems like a no-brainer.......
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