Bandit Talks

Ending the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:31:00 +0000

I thought it appropriate to end the year with an acknowledgement of events past as well as a look forward into next year yet when I got around to writing it, I really didn't feel like listing out a bunch of accomplishments and tribulations nor did I want to focus on national/international events. Boring. Besides you can find all that stuff elsewhere. For all my stuff, you can just view my Facebook Timeline and for world events your choices are limitless, especially around this time of year.

Instead I leave you with this: I think 2011 was a great year! Sure one could say, 'Rick, of course it was good. For you! Look at you? You've got nice things, a nice life. You've got life made.' But I don't look at it like that way. While I'm grateful for all I have, isn't any year good when you're still breathing and living healthy? Not to be all smarmy about it but that's just how I look at life. Sure there are things to dwell on that are not to one's liking but - not to be a Pollyanna and new age about it - but I find focusing on the half-full side of the glass is not only more fun but actual creates your successes.

There's so much good out there. Life's full of it! Am I always positive? Of course not, I'm human but I do look to catch myself in those negative thoughts. Why waste a moment on something you don't want?

For work, as I do every year, I had to set my 2012 goals which reminded me of a quote I once read. I paraphrase: Don't try to accomplish your goals. For example, trying to lose weight. Instead be your goal. Health. You can't "try" to do something. You can't "try" to write a paragraph, pick up a pen, wash the dishes. You just do it. Imagine someone "trying" to lift a button off a table. Picture it. What does that look like? I see struggling. Instead you just pick it up.

Happy New Year! And may you have the best-est, healthiest, most prosperous, extremely fulfilling and happiest year of them all!

Winding Down the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 14:56:00 +0000

On Thursday, Facebook launched a new timeline feature. I like it though the change is quite dramatic to one's page. Check it out if you haven't already.

As for what's new, finish up the year at work. Next week is my last week then I'm off. Interestingly I go back for a week and then am on vacation again for 10 days. We're heading to the condo.

Almost done with Christmas shopping. Just have to get a couple more things yet there's the wrapping. And we're also having Christmas day here so there's a lot of prep that needs to go into that.

Oh well...till later!

Bandit in his Christmas PJs

Once Upon a Time

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:58:00 +0000

Believe it or not, I've been watching TV! I know. I know. I'm always claiming how I never watch but for whatever reason the past month or so I've been following three shows: X-Factor, Once Upon a Time and The Walking Dead.

X-Factor: I've lost interest over the last couple of weeks. My two favorites, Stacy and Drew, are no longer on but I love good talent. I was liking it better than American Idol but now I'm rethinking.

Once Upon a Time: I love this show! Never thought I would. Plus the actor that plays Prince Charming is good eye candy.

Josh Dallas from "Once Upon a Time"

The Walking Dead: While I have to cover my eyes through some of it, it's compelling television. The acting is good. We're in a hiatus now, new episodes won't air till February.

Bandit Turns 10!

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 14:57:00 +0000

This week marked Bandit's ten year birthday. We celebrated by getting him a doggie cupcake, carrot cake with cream cheese frosting from the organic dog store. He loved all the fuss.

Singing Happy Birthday

Licking the Frosting

Woofing It Down

Tail Wagging with His New Present

Typical New England

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 12:25:00 +0000

Last night I got to see some old friends of mine. (Well, not that they are old; you know what I mean). We went to Rowley for dinner and to see a band perform - good food, fun music and great company.

I love that area, the north North Shore of Massachusetts. It's not that far from us, about 20 minutes, but it feels so different - quintessential New England with its small towns and old homes. Especially this time of year with the fall leaves dotting the streets it is particularly picturesque.

When we were looking at houses, back in 2007-08, we looked up there. We saw one particular house that we really liked but the septic system was bad, and then there was the commute for Chris. It's just a little too far out. Plus here in Salem there's so much more to do - restaurants, museums, transportation, parks all within walking distance - not to mention $60k less for our house. I think we made the right choice.

The House We Didn't Get (Rowley, MA)

When the PEM (Peabody Essex Museum) renovated back in 2003, it really changed Salem for the better - creating with it an offshoot of fine dining and a revived downtown. The PEM is now considered one of the top museums in the country. It has a huge endowment which in this economic climate is unheard of. In fact, a couple weeks ago they announced a new $650 million dollar 175,000-square-foot expansion to be completed in 2016. And because we're residents of Salem we get to go whenever we want for free! Go PEM!

Anyway, today will be a take-it-easy day: breakfast with our friend Diane, then later on I might trim some shrubs. Tonight we'll have a fire in the fireplace and a nice boiled New England dinner then sit down to watch Once Upon a Time and The Walking Dead.

That's it for now!

The Help

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 12:46:00 +0000

This past week I finished "The Help" by Kathyrn Stockett and last night saw the movie. As always, the book is better but I have to say I did find the film to have added some subtle differences between characters that made it quite interesting. And character of Stuart Whitworth was worth the price of admission...

Chris Lowell as Stuart in The Help

I hadn't been to the movies in quite a long time. It was nice to get out. Usually weekends are running errands and staying in. I felt so old being at the mall on a Saturday night. We had some time to kill prior to the movie so we went into Old Navy. There was very little I could get away with wearing without someone looking like they're trying to be in their 20s again.

Happy at 45 thank you.

Well nothing much else to write. Till later...

Veteran's Day, Florida, VW Bugs and More!

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:33:00 +0000

I haven't written in awhile and wanted to post a quick little update, nothing earth-shattering.

It's Veteran's Day. Neither Chris or I have the day off. Fine. I have the day after Thanksgiving off instead. Chris on the other hand gets limited holidays, doesn't get today or the day after turkey day.

We've planned two trips to the Florida condo for next year. One in January and another in April. In January we're going to do some painting in the kitchen. It's too bland. And we're also going to get some end tables. In April we'll finally get a TV. Other than that it's pretty much all set. The contractor is coming back this week to center the light fixture over the dining room table, nothing big.

I'm still on VW Bug tear. I've been looking at classic VW Beetles for a couple of years now. Someday I'll get one. I used to have one when I was a kid, a 1973 Super Beetle. I got into an accident with it on the way to the bank for my sister. After that I lost interest in it - too much damage and couldn't afford to fix it. Anyway, every now and again I dabble on eBay looking for the right one. They're expensive but if I found one at a rock bottom price not needing too much work I'd go for it. But then where would I put it. On second thought...

No big plans for this weekend which is fine by me. The last couple of weekends have been busy with birthday parties, Halloween and getting things ready for the winter. Hopefully this weekend will be nice and easy.

Other than that not too much going on. Bandit is well. He needs a bath. On Chris' day off he took Bandit for a run on Nahant beach and then a trollop with a basketball in the backyard. He's still a bit of a mess and also needs a haircut - Bandit that is.

Okay, well over and out for now.

Condo Pics

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:54:00 +0000

Thanks to my sister visiting my condo, I now have pictures of the Florida condo. (Recall I accidentally deleted all the ones I took during my last trip.)

We let my brother and his partner use the condo for the week. Meanwhile my sister was in the area visiting a friend so they all happened upon our place whilst we braved a Halloween snowstorm at home.

I tried to match up some before pictures to contrast with the new...

Before: View from Kitchen into Dining Area

After: New Dining Area

Before: Floor to Glass Walls! Ugh! (w. brother, JC and realtor in porch area)

After: New Carpet...no more mirrors!

After: New Living Room Set

My New Favorite Painting

I picked up this painting above for literally next to nothing. It's called the Open Road. Someone was selling it at the Salvation Army, of all places. I got it for three bucks. I fell in love with it the minute I saw it. I just love the bluish-purple sky. We had it framed and it looks like a million bucks.

Here's another one (below) that we also got on the same trip, just as cheap. It's a Van Gogh knock off but I still like it.

Starry Nights Like

And Into the New Boudoir

Remember, I'm all about being frugal. This bedroom set above is solid wood, weighs a ton and, in my opinion, looks very expensive. I spent $350 for the whole set. My new neighbor was selling it.

Before: Master Bath Area w. Stained (Ugh!) Rug, Decorative Wallpaper and More!

After: New Tile, Fresh paint and Wainscoting

Alright, that's enough. You asked so I'm sharing. Hope you enjoyed.

Halloween Snow!

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:42:00 +0000

I can't believe it. It's not even November and we've already had our first snowfall and more on the way tonight! Parts of Massachusetts may get over a foot of heavy, wet snow. Here on the coast we're supposed to only get a few inches but even still; the leaves haven't even fallen off the trees yet.

If this weather is any indication of what this winter (did I mention it's still fall!) will bring then we're in for it.

Oh well. Other than that all is good in the hood.

The Tug Toner

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:44:00 +0000

Check out this new revolutionary workout. Who would have thought!

Just Some Little Tidbits

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:21:00 +0000

Alright, here's just a few tidbits floating around in this early morning not enough caffeine in my brain yet head of mine...

Occupy Wall Street. I'm a bit confused about this movement, a litany of demands with no real coherent structure. I'd like to support them yet not really sure if I can yet. I understand the "Y" generation is frustrated, as they should be. I respect their ability to come together with an intent on change and doing good. However there is something about this movement, and maybe this is me just getting older and more conservative, that smacks of laziness and just a push for socialism. Hopefully they'll prove me wrong.

The X-Factor. I am so into this show! But was bummed last night when a rain delay for the American League baseball game preempted the show. I wonder if tonight's show will be last night's? Regardless, I'll be watching.

Refinance. Finally, the refi for the house is over! Last night the lawyer came to the house and all the paper work was signed. We started looking into this in August when the interest rates plummeted. This one (which I think is our third since owning the house) seemed to take forever mainly because the initial appraiser went AWOL after looking at our house. (Perhaps he's still down in our basement somewhere.) They had to order another inspection after waiting two weeks for this first guy.

New Tires. You may recall, in January of 2009 I bought brand new Goodyear Eagle GTs at NTB (National Tire and Battery). Never again for both Goodyear and NTB. Only 12,000 miles put on these tires since then, rotated as required, now completely bald. Monday I went to Town Fair Tire and put on brand new Toyos. I went to NTB first. Their response was there was no warranty. They gave me a price on new tires that was high and wouldn't budge. Done with NTB! They just lost all my business. Between oil changes, bushings, brakes and more, I've literally spent thousands there!

National Coming Out Day. As chair of the GLBTA (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and allies) alliance at my office, on Tuesday, for National Coming Out Day, we had a PowerPoint running in the cafeteria with pictures and quotes from employees, mostly straight allies, as to why they support the GLBT. It was very powerful. In between the quotes we had embedded a new video from corporate about inclusiveness in the workplace. The day turned out to be very successful. We increased our membership over 70%, far exceeding our goals for the year.

Alright, now that I'm on my second cup of coffee I'm beginning to wake. Over and out for now!

Flood Ravages Boston's North Shore

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:45:00 +0000

As I was typing this morning's blog entry, I noticed it was raining but little did I know the severity. My normal ten minute commute took me over an hour!

I'm Not Retiring Just Yet

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 10:17:00 +0000

Bandit has asked me, prompted by Spo, to provide an update. First off let's set the rumors straight, I am not retiring Bandit Talks. With the popularity of Facebook and Twitter, many of my blog friends have closed down shop in lieu of smaller tweets and postings. I prefer a lengthier forum.

So what's going? Well suffice it to say I've been busy: back to work post-vacation and playing catch up, refinancing the house at a much better interest rate, tending to my crop of crab grass, attending to plumbing issues in Florida from afar, coupon shopping and doing the normal day to day. Yet one thing I've neglected is my writing and Bandit Talks. So yes I am still here and no Bandit Talks is not retiring.

On writing, I've also taken my book down from authonomy.com. Having it there for close to six months, it peaked in low 200s (out of thousands) - not too bad - and I got some really good constructive feedback. I am now going into another rewrite. I've got some ideas in my head and just need the time to get them down on paper.

Okay onto the day. Over and out...

Bandit Here with an Update

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:05:00 +0000

Hey there! Bandit here. Apparently my Dad has been too busy to update this here blog so I've opted to do so.

We just got back from Florida on Monday. We spent a week and a half down there. I was sort of grateful that they took me. In hindsight it was better than being in some kennel however being in the car for so long was daunting. 28 hours down and 24 hours back with stops midway in a place called Vagina (at least that's what Daddy Chris called it).

The daddies spent most of the time decorating. How gay. Go figure. And Daddy Rick took pictures (one above) with his camera phone that didn't really come out that good. But he also took over a hundred pictures with the good camera only to come back and accidentally delete them all from the disk. So all we have to show is the one picture above (that looks like crap) of the kitchen. (By the way, at that time I was trying to reach out to you all for help but got caught.)

Anyway, the condo is nice. However I was a bit scared for the first couple of days and spent a majority of the time in the master bath shower stall, not really sure why just felt safe.

Going outside was always a trip. As the condo is on the 5th floor we had to lock ourselves into this giant electronic box - which kind of scared me - and would move and shake and then miraculously we'd end up down near the grass where I could finally relieve myself. I only had one accident. Thank God it was on the tile floor. Daddy Chris ran me ragged running up and down the hallway playing ball upstairs. I was so exhausted it just came flying out of me. Guess I'm getting old.

Talk about hot! We went for one long walk and I nearly passed out from heat exhaustion. Another time they took me to some doggie park nearby. It was okay except for me mistakenly traipsing through some other dog's droppings and later smearing it all over Daddy Chris' backseat. He wasn't happy.

From what I hear we won't be driving down again anytime soon. Looks like I'll be sent off somewhere and they'll be flying down. A lot of swearing and yelling specifically on the way down: we were in the car for 7 hours and still only in Connecticut. According to Daddy Rick's calculations we should have been somewhere in New Jersey or something but some tractor trailer decided to flip over on the Mass Pike and shut it down. Daddy Rick and I got out and walked along the highway whilst Daddy Chris sat in the car parked in the middle of the highway - three hours stuck in a parking lot of traffic. In fact, at one point, Daddy Rick had to go so bad that a large Dunkin Donuts coffee cup came in handy.

Anyway, glad to be back. So much for now!

Bandit

September 11th Tribute

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:50:00 +0000

As the tenth anniversary of 9/11/01 approaches, the events of that day and its lasting effect has been on the forefront of my mind as of late, as I'm sure it has been for a lot of you. While I didn't know anyone directly involved in the events, it's impact upon me were still profound.

In January 2001, I recently purchased my first home. My partner, at the time, and I had spent the spring and summer fixing it up. For Labor Day that year my brother came up from Florida to spend the week with us. By vocation, I was consulting at various law firms and just finished a three week stint in D.C. rolling out a new document management system. I had September 11th off.

Just after 9 a.m. my partner, at work, called the house phone to tell me about a some rumors he had heard about a plane crash in New York City. Things were a bit fuzzy and he wasn't sure if it was true. After hanging up the phone, I went into the living room. For some reason, my brother was sleeping on the couch instead of the guest bed. I woke him by putting on the television. We sat glued to it for the next few hours. At first we thought it was a commuter plane. Then realizing it was a jet we were astonished yet we still thought it was an accident until the second tower was hit. At that point I remember saying to him, "welcome to world war three." I felt this was our Pearl Harbor.

A couple hours later my partner came home early from work. When he walked in the door we embraced and I began to cry.

It was the unknown that was so scary. It seemed like every hour there was another tragedy unfolding: the towers falling, another plane down, D.C. hit - where I had just been. I thought about my colleagues still at the firm, the view of the twin towers that I had from my room at NYU, the bomb scares we had from the first world trade tower bombing in 1993.

While 9/11 left a lasting impression upon me, I can't imagine being directly impacted like the people in this video, a view from the people at the departure gate.

How has 9/11 impacted you?

No More Irene!

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:16:00 +0000

All is fine here in post-hurricane land. We managed to get by with little more than a bunch of leaves strewn about the yard. So much so it looks like fall instead this time the leaves are still green.

I think the worst of the storm was actually before and after it hit. Saturday, when Irene was approaching North Carolina, at one point, it was raining so hard here that the water was coming up to the basement windows. I was concerned thinking if we had to deal with 24 hours of this we'd surely have a flooded basement. But luckily it was a passing downpour of 2 inches in one hour; the rest of the weekend we barely got 2 additional inches which over time the ground quickly absorbed. Gratefully no flooding.

Sunday morning while she broached New York City we had a lightning strike nearby. I thought for sure it was my house. The whole house lit up and a huge clap of thunder immediately followed. It was so loud it sounded like a bomb went off. Luckily no loss of electricity or anything. After that, my neighbor said her cats were going to need therapy.

Other than being a little antsy from needing to stay in so much, Bandit weathered the storm like a trooper.

Last night as Irene headed into Canada the wind gusts were incredible. But nothing worse than what we get during a blizzard.

So all in all, for us, uneventful. In fact, during the height of the storm Chris and I went out shopping. Everything was open. CVS was having a good sale. You know me and my coupon bargains. I figured what an opportune time to pick up some extra (free) toothpaste whilst those extreme coupon queens were at home making chicken soup with last week's steal on broth. You should see my spare bedroom closet. It looks like a warehouse. I've got enough deodorant, contact lens solution, mouthwash and laundry detergent to last me at least a year.

Not to make light of the situation: There are people that were significantly impacted by Irene - in New England specifically western Massachusetts and Vermont. The west side of the storm dropped a ton of water; the floods alone were devastating. And Southern Massachusetts' coast saw some incredible ocean surge. Even in the Greater Boston area and North Shore there are downed trees and power lines.

Tropical Storm Irene Makes an Impact in Boston
(courtesy of Boston.com)

The Long, Overdue Ditty

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:20:00 +0000

Finally, here I am, able to give you one of my general updates. Life has been moving way too fast and I just haven't had the time to sit down with my morning cup of coffee and write a little ditty.

First off Bandit is doing well. He's very excited to be going to see the condo with us. We'll be driving down in about a month to sign off on the renovations, take delivery of the furniture and do some decorating. He's already got his crate packed, selected the toys he wants to bring down and has informed his Dads as to the selection of music on the Sirius. He's partial to dance music which works well for we'll need it to stay awake.

The condo. The other day I talked to the contractor. Everything is moving along on schedule. This week she's going to finish up the tile in the kitchen and schedule the carpets to be put down. Everything should be done by the time we head down. We finally found a dining room light that we liked. I need to email her the SKU and model so she can pick it up this week with the other lights at Lowe's.

Tile Work Zone

"Look! No more mirrors!"

Chris has changed his schedule to be four ten hour days (instead of five eights). He likes it better. He gets to have Wednesdays off to catch up on things and it helps me out by not having to run home for Bandit one extra day. It also frees up our Saturdays a bit; we have more time (to do yard work).

My Crabgrass Garden

Coupons! I'm still in my coupon craze. I schedule one day a week to make my rounds at the drug stores (CVS, Walgreens and RiteAid) to pick up the free deals. Yesterday I got freeze gel for my back (still hasn't been right since last fall) and 3 bottles of hand sanitizer for free at RiteAid. I got over $50 of toiletries and groceries at Walgreens for $4.98 which doesn't include the $8.00 in rewards I got back to spend next time - so technically made money on that trip. CVS wasn't as profitable but some stuff we needed just wasn't one sale. That trip cost me $57 but was over $100 worth of stuff. Then again I got $21 in back rewards to spend next time so actually a lot better than I thought.

Free Stuff Shelf is Getting Full

I finally finished Jonathan Franzen's Freedom. It only took me four months! It was good but I got hung up in the middle. I'm now reading Armistead Maupin's Micheal Tolliver Lives which I'm loving. I just love Maupin's style. I'm already half way through it and just started it last week.

Well that's about it. Chris' alarm just went off which is my cue that it's I should get ready to get ready.

Over and out...

Rick

Yahoo! Article

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 11:29:00 +0000

For my community Facebook page I wrote this recent article published on Yahoo! Check it out...

5 Low Cost (Even Free!) Ways of Promoting Your Neighborhood Business

Busy Saving Money

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 12:28:00 +0000

A Recent Coupon Extravaganza - 78% Off!

I'm treating coupon as a part-time job. Above is a recent run at Walgreen's where I stocked up on some non-perishables. In fact, I maxed out the store's coupon policy. I still had $8 more to go but had exceeded the allowable coupons per item. I'm still learning. $19.85 on nearly $90 worth of stuff isn't too bad.

Florida Condo

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 15:05:00 +0000

Wow, I can't believe the summer has flown by so quickly. Didn't I start off the last post with the same complaint? It makes no never mind. As you may recall, we spent last weekend in Florida. The condo is a done deal and renovations are starting Monday. I promised a couple of pictures so here we go...

First off from the outside, we're on the fifth floor.

Front of the condo complex - in a rainstorm

A view of the back of the building overlooking golf course

In terms of renovations, we're not really having a lot done. The unit is in great shape but just needs cosmetic updating. For instances, it was built in 1990 and for whatever reason floor to ceiling mirrors were all the rage. We're getting those removed.

Living area with floor to ceiling mirrors to be removed

The carpet. Well let's just say the unit was occupied by someone who had "accidents". And while it was thoroughly cleaned, it's being ripped out and being replaced with Martha Stewart's Boscobel I, in the color of Brook Trout, installed for only $97, on sale at Home Depot. Leave it to Martha!

We've already gotten some furniture. The next door neighbor, the treasurer of the condo association, was selling some of the stuff from his unit, as he got a new tenant that was bringing in their own. We got a sofa table, dining room table and chairs and bedroom set for a song.

Chris dusting off the new bedroom set

Other changes we want to do are to get rid of the wallpaper, put on a fresh coat of paint throughout, replace lighting and ceiling fans and get new faucets. We found some pretty decent deals at "Homo" Depot, as our contractor calls it. (I think she's family. ) She also gave us a 20% off contractor price.

While we spent most of the weekend running around, getting all the details coordinated and products picked out, we still managed to have a bit of fun.

Out to dinner - homemade sangria at the Columbia in Sarasato

Relaxing view by the pool

Well that's about it for now. Sorry I've been neglectful in regular postings. I also need to stop by your blogs to catch up on you. I promise to be better!

Yes, I'm Still Here...

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 10:45:00 +0000

Is it really August already? It can't be! I have yet to put down my Step 3 lawn fertilizer (hopefully get to this weekend).

Wow, this has been a crazy summer. Well first off, we got the condo. Yeah! We closed on 7/21 and have been very busy ever since coordinating the work to be done plus doing everything here (except apparently fertilizing the grass). We flew down this past weekend to meet up with the contractor and pick out furniture and materials. It's very exciting but stressful at the same time.

Now that I have another property to support I've gone "extreme" with my coupons. Don't be surprised if you see me in the aisles (like the lady below) cheering about my grocery bill down. In fact, you know you've gone extreme when you get a box of tampons and hair scrunchies, in a household full of short-haired men, for free. I did this the other day at Walgreens. I was so excited! Don't worry; they're going to charity.

Bandit's New Sister (At Least for the Night)

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:11:00 +0000

After coming home from the lawyer's office the other night, not only did we just acquire a new condo in Florida but we had a new visitor waiting for us in our yard. A beautiful husky, with walking harness and leash still attached came up to great us as we got of the car. I figured she slipped away, momentarily, while being walked by someone in the townhouses behind us. I took her leash and told Chris I'd be right back for her owner must be around the corner...I thought.

A half hour walking through the neighborhood I could not find anyone who knew of her. She had no dog tags on. I took her back to her new home.

Bandit's Temporary Sister Waiting for Something to Eat

I left a message for the dog officer (as of this posting I'm still waiting for a call back), took the picture above and posted it on FaceBook. Bandit and Luna, as we later knew of her, got acclimated. Bandit was a bit jealous. She was very friendly and playful.

She spent the night.

The next morning we woke up, Bandit went out to pee and she bolted out the back door. I watched her run through the back woods and figured she was gone, back to her house, perhaps up the street to one I hadn't passed by. Five minutes later she was at the back porch, ready and waiting for breakfast. While she ate five of Bandit-sized portions, I checked Facebook to see if I had any callers. Lots of curiosities and compliments on her looks but no leads.

I left a message for the dog walker to include one more dog, put her in the basement and headed off to work.

In the middle of a meeting I got a call from a friend of mine from work. He was home on vacation and saw my posting but had also seen another posting at the Coven Facebook page. He put two and two together and immediately gave me a call.

A couple hours later Luna was reunited with her owner. He gave me a reward which I didn't feel was necessary (a future donation to the animal rescue league). She headed out in howls of excitement. Bandit and I said our goodbyes. Secretly I think Bandit was grateful to have the place back to himself.

Condo Closing

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:36:00 +0000

The condo closing has been a bit of a fiasco. While we've gotten a good deal (though in this economy one can never be sure) it's been one headache after another. Hopefully, fingers crossed, all will be complete on Friday. We got word yesterday the closing packet was being sent overnight.

Chris has already got one of the spare bedrooms filled with Florida stuff. I'm just wondering how we're going to get it all down there. Pictures, bed linen, extra dishes, glasses, pots, pans...you name it.

We also bought some furniture from the guy who runs the condo association. We got a beautiful bedroom set and dining room table and chairs for cheap money. He's renting out one of his units and the people moving in have their own furniture so he needs to get rid of his.

Chris is off today. Did I tell you he's now working four ten hour days? He likes it much better, has time, mid-week, to catch up on stuff. Besides he was doing 10 hour days anyway. It gives me a break too for I don't have to run home to let Bandit out at lunch and our weekends are a little more free because he can get a jump on some of the errands. Works out good except for me having to help out with the cooking. Recall I'm not the best chef. Last night I got spaghetti and meatballs "ready", he cooked the pasta. The night before that I threw a frozen chicken pot pie in the oven. One night last week I cooked a meatloaf, which was pre-made by him on his day off and left in the fridge with instructions on what to do. One of my downsides, I'm not that great in the kitchen. But I make up for it in other ways.

Happy 4th!

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:11:00 +0000

Monday. Feels like Sunday. Still having yesterday's paper in a heap, waiting to be read doesn't help matters. Yesterday we went in to Boston for the day. Took the ferry in and saw the Chihuly exhibit at the MFA. Quite stunning actually.

Chihuly Exhibit at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts

It was also our first time at the museum since the added the new wing, Art of the Americas. The museum is so huge we couldn't see everything. You almost have to go just to see one wing only. And being that the Chihuly was our main goal we basically took that approach; everything else was just icing on the cake.

After that headed back, took Bandit for a stroll and out for a bite to eat here in Salem. Fireworks display tonight but being a school-night not sure if we'll head down.

Happy 4th!

Too Long Without a Post

noreply@blogger.com (Rick) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 10:59:00 +0000

I just got back last night from a couple days in Florida visiting my mom for her 75th birthday. We had a good time. While down there I was "supposed" to close on the condo but due to an issue with the title it did not happen.

About a month ago, my sister and I had planned a trip down to surprise my mother for her birthday. In the meantime, as you may recall, we decided to buy a condo. Since both were happening around the same time I thought I could kill two birds with one stone: celebrate and close. The closing has now been pushed out a couple of weeks; evidently the person that owned it willed it to his son who died in the interim. The son's heirs are the ones I've been dealing with as the sellers so it's just a matter of pushing paperwork through probate - shouldn't be a big deal.

Other than that I'm headed out to do the Cancer Walk (in a few minutes). There's still time to donate! Didn't want you to think I forgot about Bandit Talks...just been super busy.

Over and out...

Rick

North Shore Cancer Walk (2010)