Friday 10/1, Friday felt great. It was a long week. I went home and relaxed and decided not to walk the dogs and would do it the next day. Eric called and we talked for a while until K&S came home. I made HH for dinner since it’s been forever. I watched 48 Hours or whatever about a couple murdered by some idiot Wisconsin teens. Lots of twists and turns. I went to bed not too late since I felt exhausted.

Thursday 9/30, I didn’t want to walk the dogs so I didn’t and cleaned up for Kristel’s visit instead. She arrived at 7 and I showed her the floors and we took off for Chipotle. I told her all about the Eric stuff through dinner, then he called while we were there and I told him about the bank notice. We went home but there were no sweets so we went to QFC for snacks then back home and sat on the couch and talked until 9:30 or so. Discussed me and Eric some more then her and DO’N and his latest requests which shocked (shocked!) me. I think I’m a prude. After she left I called Eric and he had the house to himself and was able to tell me a little more about what was going on and how his life has been so far. We talked for a long time. I missed Office but will watch it online. Went to bed.

Wednesday 9/29, It was beautiful out again so I took the dogs on a walk at the park after work. Sos called and we talked all the way until I got home about Eric and the dynamics of our relationship. It was a good talk and she asked me some interesting questions. Eric called later in the evening and we talked and I told him about my and Sos’ convo. He thinks its less about me and more about him. We decided when he gets home that we’re going to discuss finances and sit down with them together so there’s no mystery. He thinks he will feel better after that. I did some cleaning up and organizing, talked to Mom and watched Modern Family and Cougar Town. Went to bed.

Tuesday 9/28, After the conference I stopped at home to eat lunch, let the dogs out and get the homeowner’s policy squared away. I talked to JH about my policy and it’s being renewed thank goodness, after all we did and all the work I put into the email. As I was pulling out of the driveway to head into work there was a cop car sitting behind Eric’s so I pulled back in and went to see what the problem was. Apparently the registration is expired, like, by a lot and he’s put a notice on his car in the past. I was so upset that Eric hadn’t taken care of this and hadn’t just effing moved the car into the driveway like I asked him to before he left. Shit like this erodes at the trust level. Ugh. I started crying and he gave me a tissue and told me it would be ok. Now I had to figure out who I was going to get to come over and jump his car for me. I took off for work again and I called him and left a message and told him how mad I was at him. I called Sos on the way home after work and vented about Eric and we talked through it. I walked the dogs at the park. Eric called at 6 I let him have it. He apologized but I was really mad. After a while I felt bad because I knew he felt bad. He said he would call Schuyler the next day to help me but I said I would call him. I called Chrystol and she said they would come over and at first we said we’d get takeout but then they said they’d make matzo ball soup. While I was waiting for C&S I got an email from Eric and he was very down and the email ended that he loved me but tomorrow… so then I was worried and called and he said he was sending the rest of the email, but we ended up talking anyway. It was a much better conversation and he said he’s got a lot of time to think about things and that he’ll get it figured out. I saw C&S pull up so we hung up I greeted them and filled them in on the new developments. C got started on matzo ball soup and Schuyler and I went out to get going on Eric’s car. C came out and helped too. It took forever to find the hood release then the alarm started going off as soon as we hooked it to Schuyler’s. The next problem was the car was so dead that it just clicked when we tried to start it. I called Dad and he said to put the charger on it and to leave it on as long as possible. We went back inside, ate dinner and watched the end of BL. It was fun even though I was so stressed earlier in the day. It had been over an hour so we went out and thank goodness got it started. I put it in the driveway then we went back inside and cleaned up a little. They packed up and took off. I headed off to bed.

Monday 9/27, It was warm out and I decided to take the dogs around the block for a quick walk but by the time I got home I felt like I was going to pass out after getting the mail and bringing in the cans. I grabbed some trail mix and sat down and felt better after a little bit. Fed the dogs, ate dinner and Eric called. We talked about his first day and my day and I think it’s going to be a long three months for him. I vacuumed the house, watched Office and showered. Climbed in bed and downloaded photos to my computer and drafted email to my insurance guy for the house policy. Watched GG then the news. P is making me attend a benefit conference tomorrow and I don’t want to go.

Sunday 9/26, Slept in until 9, which felt good. Got up, into my walking clothes, fed Brizo and set out for the park with Castor and Nyx. Eric called from Grant’s Pass to give me an update and we talked for a while as I walked. Went home, fed the other dogs, brushed the dogs’ teeth, called Banfield, gassed up at Costco, took Nyx in, got the claim form filled out, got Castor’s prescription, picked up food and treats at ATB, dropped Nyx at home, went to the store, back home, ate lunch, went to Goodwill in search of furniture, nothing, to BB&B, got curtain rings and a shower soap dish, home, fixed curtains, picked up dog crap, put in enzymes and finally sat down to watch Wedding Crashers. Fed dogs, brushed Castor, watched SNL online and organized and filed bills, talked to Eric again who made it to Kassie’s ok. Ate a piece of pizza, got ready for bed, updated this and got into bed.

Saturday 9/25, We woke up around 6:15 but didn’t get up for about an hour. Took the dogs out, got ready, talked to Mom in the motorhome and finally we headed out to Squirrel Tree for breakfast. Food was good and the fireplace waterfall was hilarious. We went back to the property and packed up and eventually mom, dad and Eric were all ready to go. Eric and I said bye and I was successful in not crying. Said bye to Mom and Dad too. I followed them out to the fire station then turned. It was a beautiful day which helped me not be in too sad of a mood. The drive went quickly and at home I unpacked, fed the dogs and got to work rearranging and cleaning things. I mostly worked in the back room with curtains, moved the desk around, organized the white bookshelf then cleaned off the buffet. Watched the outcome of Project Runway. In the evening I had leftover curry and laid on the couch and started falling asleep shortly after 7. Eric called at 8 and let me know they’d made it. Watched Cops then into bed and 48 Hours with some creepy pedophile / killer in CA with a curly afro. Went to sleep right at 11.

Friday 9/24, Eric planted the maple, got the dogs’ stuff together and had the house all put together for Mom’s arrival. I got off work early (since going to work early that day and the day before) but had to go to the bank for cash for Eric. At home I took the dogs out, packed and hadn’t been home for more than 15 minutes when Mom and Eric arrived. We showed her all the changes and she loved the floor. We showed her the rest, loaded up the cars and took off for Plain. Traffic was gnarly and a pain in the ass and it took us almost 3 hours to get there. Mom and I stayed busy chatting but we were both hungry and wanted to hurry up and get there. Dad was running around the property when we arrived and showed us the inside of the main garage and it looks soooo different. Crazy. Looks awesome. The dogs went to the bathroom, we got our stuff upstairs and fed the dogs then took off for Headwaters for dinner. It wasn’t too crowded and we got the big table where we could see everything. Dinner was fun and very good. I was so tired. We headed home and hung in the motorhome for a while until I was too tired to stay awake any longer. Went upstairs and got the dogs situated and cleaned up Brizo’s accident. I was irritated partly about Brizo, partly about the cash for Eric. I just told him I was tired and we went to bed. Both Brizo and Nyx were on the bed with Brizo under the covers with us.

Thursday 9/23, Eric got the tiebacks mounted in the master bedroom. Also, he filled more of the insulation in the attic and moved all the outdoor furniture inside. At home I got ready quickly and we took off for the store to get a congrats card for Peter (Greencard approval) and some Busch tall boys. We headed into Seattle but the GPS got us to the wrong address, so I called Stefanie and she told me how to get there. Never been up to the Amazon / Pac Med building. We found it, went in and started snacking. There was so much food and it was all so good. We were introduced to some people that had arrived already. It’s been a while since we’ve seen them so it was nice to talk and catch up. I kept eating and eating and Peter put more food on my plate than I wanted but I ate it because it was delicious. We hung for a few hours, said hi to Bethany and Jacquelyn and said our goodbyes at 8:15. Eric wanted to get home and relax on his last night at the house. We drove home and caught Office before going to bed.

Wednesday 9/22, Eric mowed the lawn and got the truck all ready for Dad’s arrival. He also bought tickets for WTF Wed for us and C&S. We weren’t sure if they were going to have dinner with us but we were planning on it. I showered and got ready and we rolled out. Eric found parking easily and we were only about 3 blocks away. Went in and got our table and ordered (mac for me and pizzette for Eric). S&C showed up right on time and put their orders in as well. We were excited for the show and it did not disappoint. It was funnier than the last one and there was burlesque this time. The boys really liked it and both said they had a desire to dance. The other show we saw was sexier but this one was very good too. After it ended and we settled the bill we headed out and talked outside for a bit and peeped in peoples’ windows. We walked back to the car, headed home and went to bed.

Tuesday 9/21, Eric got the big mirror moved into the middle bedroom and got the white bookshelf moved to the back bedroom and got the desk moved to the south wall. I told Eric I would make him dinner so I stopped at the store and picked up supplies to make veggie curry. Eric had everything set up for me when I got there so I started not long after I got home. The pan was full and even though there were some minor setbacks dinner was decent. BL was on so I watched that in the living room and Eric watched tv in the bedroom then we switched at 9 so he could watch Rockford Files in HD. Went to bed around 11.

Monday 9/20, Right before leaving work I got a text from LPC saying he was just thinking about me with a :). I texted back that I'd had a dream about him the week before and he responded that his dog bit scar looked pretty hot. On my way home Eric called and asked if I wanted to go to Chrystol and Schuyler's; I said yes and that I'd be home soon. I was greeted by excited dogs and noticed that he'd put all the thresholds down on the new floor and they looked really nice. I was impressed. I changed quickly and we were off 5 minutes after I got home. We drove over talking about his plans to go to CA on Friday / this weekend and we talked about going down to San Diego for Thanksgiving and the complications of him having to come back up here. He received a voicemail from Jake and Sos and while I was looking at our itinerary on his phone, he snatched it away and said he was waiting for an email. I don't believe him and don't know what the hell he was hoping for but I know it wasn't an email from PM. That irritated me then he went off because I didn't understand something he was saying so then I was really pissed off and wouldn't even look at him. We rode that way for a few minutes and I just looked outside, eventually he apologized but I told him he wasn't sorry and asked why the eff he was so gd upset when I told him I didn't understand what he was talking about. We cleared it up before we went into C&S' but I was still upset. They were inside going full bore on dinner and were making stir fry. Tons and tons of veggies and chicken. We all talked in the kitchen and they showed us all their new All Clad ware then we talked about laser discs, flat screens, watching porn through the squiggly lines and rearranging furniture. Dinner was served and very good then Chrystol started a pear tart. We talked in the kitchen while the boys stayed at the table and we talked about how guys don't think things through whereas we're type A and think everything through and the outcome of actions. I told her about the mirror Eric hung and also about how he wants to design the kitchen but there's no way I'm agreeing to that. She said we must have been on the same wave length the day before because they were into it with each other as well over furniture and cookware placement. We ate the tart and fresh homemade whip cream and it was seriously so good. I told her she should make these and sell them at the market and call them "Ladies First" with a graphic of a woman having an orgasm. Then we talked about different businesses and names that would be good like liquor stores that also sell porn and calling it XXX Effects or something like that. We talked until 9:30 then I initiated our departure. We stopped for gas on the way home then QFC by the house for yogurt, cookies and turkey. At home the dogs were excited about our return, Eric took them out, I got ready for bed and climbed in. He watched tv out in the rec room and transferred laundry for me. He didn't come to bed until 5 because he fell asleep on the couch. I dreamt I was given the old MI house and that it was going to be a lot of work to keep it clean because it is such a big house.

Sunday 9/19, We got up earlyish and got going on the day. I got the bleach out and went to task on the wall in the closet in the third bedroom and I think it went ok, now just need to paint it I think. Eric was watching a football game but wasn't too into it so I asked him to help me rearrange some things. I wanted to move the piano but then we moved it back and centered it on the wall, I hung the bird paintings above the piano and Eric went to work on the mirror above the tv and had to move the wire to hang it horizontal. I hung two other prints in the dining room and the frame Brandon made me outside the den (still need to swap out the album covers). It felt good to get so much done. I was restless so I decided to see some open houses and saw one place that I loved if my budget was a little higher ($700k). Loved it. The next was a place I think Mom would like: cottage on Lake Sammamish, with a shitload of stairs down to the house. It was very small but had a nice little yard and beach. I wandered my way back home looking at the house I put an offer on last year and also the house that started my search for a new place, that's only six blocks from the current house. Eric was still watching his games so I finished House in Umbria but didn't love the ending then put on Beauty and the Beast because I hadn't seen it forever. I sang the songs to the dogs and I think they enjoyed it. When it was over I talked Eric into a walk with the dogs at the park. He was reluctant but agreed. We had a nice walk and the dogs loved it. At home he started dinner and I started working and did that for almost an hour while listening to the new Ratatat. I called both Court and Alix and talked with Alix for a while as I paged through an old Seattle mag. Dinner was served and I watched AFV and laughed at all the people falling down stairs. Terrible. Watched part of EHM then into bed and watched some Seinfeld and fell asleep.

Saturday 9/18, We were up early, ate breakfast and took off for Home Depot to pick up thresholds and smoke detectors. Schuyler called Eric and we made plans for later to go to Snohomish for lunch and sightseeing. Back at home we both did some work around the house and eventually got ready for Chrystol and Schuyler to arrive. They weren't right on time which was ok and when they did show up we were outside talking about the yard and trying to get Brizo to go to the bathroom. We hung out for a few minutes and Chrystol pet the little dogs then off we went in the Nugget up to Snohomish. We took a super long way to get there but there was a lot of conversation so it was fun. We found a pie place for lunch and I had the quiche. We set out for dessert but after Chrystol and I discovered there were no donuts at the bakery we decided to go back to the pie place for some pie instead. As we were crossing the street we were talking about sex and "ladies first" and she was like "of course!" and I said that in prior relationships that hadn't always been the case and she chalked it up to being young and not knowing better. We went to an antique shop before getting pie and there was some good furniture but didn't buy anything. We got our pie and mine was the apple crumb a la mode. Delicious! I was thoroughly stuffed after that. We continued to hit antique stores and one was super fancy and had chandeliers from Princeville, crazy! There was a monkey painting I loved, but it was over $7k so it wasn't in the cards. More antique shops and more and more and finally we called it good and loaded into the Saturn. It started raining on the way back. At home we all sat on the couch and watched the Sounders game and I wanted to fall asleep but didn't. Had some snacks, talked and by 7:00 they rolled out, despite my pleas for them to stay for Cops. Eric and I stayed on the couch and watched Cops and I told him about C’s and my conversation and "ladies first" and he thought I was talking about pie and we both laughed so hard it was so funny. He wasn't even making any sound. "Oh, you mean like in line for pie?" Ha, no. I showered and we climbed into bed and locked the dogs out and had some fun. Fell asleep not long after.

Friday 9/17, Texted Kristel to see if we were still on for a movie and getting together. At home I fed the dogs and took them out (Eric was at S&C's) and K called and I told her I'd meet her in a half hour. I changed and headed down to Lincoln Square, found parking easily and headed over to the mall. Went to grab a piece of pizza and told her to meet me there. She told me a story about DO'N and his latest attempts of persuasion - hilarious. And kind of icky, but mostly amusing. We walked through Macy's over to the overpass and up to the theater. There were all these young bucks in matching red tracksuits milling about, riding the escalator down and pouring out of the theater. Kristel's and my jaws were on the floor. There was one hunky brunette in particular that caught my eye for Kristel and she was right along with me. We dared each other to ask who they were and just as I turned my head I practically ran right into this large AA fellow, my mouth dropped open to attempt to ask what and who they were but I couldn't do it. Kristel laughed so hard as I quickly turned and walked away. We bought our tickets for the subtitled show (Going the Distance). Kristel looked up on her phone what was going on in Seattle sports-wise which would account for all the matching red tracksuits and found out it was Nebraska or something, in town to play the Huskies. We waited in line for popcorn and these kids in front of us were mock fighting (they didn’t know each other) and one of them was like “Put my d*ck in your mouth” and Kristel was horrified. They were like 10. We couldn’t stop laughing. Went into the theater and we were the only ones and which was hilarious. The movie was really funny and we both enjoyed it. We talked and walked to my car and I drove her to hers and took off for home. I was home by 10ish and hung with the dogs. Eric didn’t get home until like midnight. I think I watched 48 Hours – type shows. Went to bed just as Eric got home.

Thursday 9/16, Eric cleaned the bathrooms, vacuumed, put together the desk and got the office arranged a bit. We put up the curtain rod in the dining room and I filled the nail holes in the walls in the dining and living rooms. Looks much better. I had leftovers for dinner then showered and was feeling a little frisky. I got in bed and ended up feeling too tired to get it up once I told Eric. We scheduled it for the next day and I went to sleep.

Wednesday 9/15, Eric did a bunch of stuff around the house: stained all the gable beams, fixed the board at the back of the house, applied insulation to the space around gables and he cut some fresh roses and put them around the house. We got to work on the Niles and got it fixed and music playing. I talked to Dad for a bit then we drove around trying to figure what to get for dinner – settled on teriyaki by the house. Watched tv while we ate and hung for the rest of the night.

Tuesday 9/14, Eric got carpet / carpet pad / linoleum hauled out and the new floor down in the kitchen. The floor looked great when I got home and since it was so nice we went for a walk with Castor and Nyx. We walked to Phantom Lake and let Castor run around. We went out on the dock and looked at houses and wondered if you could have an electric boat. Walked back and talked about Warren Buffet and DQ. At home I think we had leftovers for dinner. Probably watched tv and went to bed early.

Monday 9/13, I was feeling much better but Eric wasn’t so I told him to take it easy and not worry about the kitchen floor. When I got home he had made a gigantic pot of homemade chicken soup which smelled and tasted so good when I sampled it that I dished up my dinner at 5:30. I watched the end of that Bachelor pad show and missed the season premier of GG.

Sunday 9/12, We got up early and went into Issaquah to get gas and went to Fred Meyer to pick up groceries for the week and for the afternoon of football festivities with Schuyler and Chrystol. At home we ran around getting everything ready for the day like cleaning, putting books away and cooking. Eventually I laid down for a little nap. They came over right before the game started. Eric and I still weren’t feeling good so it was hard to not drift in and out of sleep while the game was on. Eric made a huge pan of nachos that were very good but I only ate a little. We had brownies to top things off. Chrystol and I looked through my new Martha Stewart Weddings and commented on rings, outfits and eventually talked about Kass’ wedding. It was a good game which pleased the boys. After they left we relaxed and watched AFV. We probably went to bed early since we still weren’t feeling 100%.

Saturday 9/11, We woke up and both felt like shit but got right to work anyway. We put the floor down in the den and Eric's job was to do all the cutting on the edges and mine was sweeping up, putting down the whole tiles and cleaning up the clutter. We finished right around lunch so I ate some leftovers and felt really tired so I laid down. I didn’t take a nap but dozed in and out of consciousness. Eric moved things back into place and I helped a little, like with the couch. I started feeling restless after getting up and suggested driving up to Somerset to see some of the houses and view. We drove for a while and picked houses we liked as well as some crazy ones. We found our way home and I think relaxed for the rest of the night. We watched Cops and some other shows and turned in early.

Friday 9/10, Eric was feeling worse in the morning so I told him not to worry about the tile and that I would help when I got home. I stayed at work until almost 6 and felt increasingly sick all day. Runny nose, congested, bleh. Eric made pot roast but I couldn’t eat very much since I was feeling under the weather, though it was delicious. Watched tv and showered then off to bed by 10:30.

Thursday 9/9, Stayed a little late then did a little work at home as well. Eric wasn’t home when I got there and all the pups were in the bedroom so I took them out. Eric didn’t feel good and picked up a pizza for dinner. He got the rest of the crap off the floor and got a few rows of tile laid. We watched tv and I felt bad he was feeling so crummy. I was in bed and sleeping by 10.

Wednesday 9/8, P asked if I could stay late so I stayed until 5:30 then took some work home and worked for a while longer. I heated up some of the dinner from the night before as we watched Office. Eric had picked up samples of outdoor paint for the gables, stronger adhesive removal for the floor and put in the new shower head and arm from the wall. I showered and tried out the new settings and the ones we thought we would like the best just ended up spraying me in the face a lot. I climbed in bed and relaxed before falling asleep shortly after 10.

Tuesday 9/7, Eric got all the carpet in the den up while I was at work but couldn’t get the pad up since it was glued to the floor. I felt pumped to get some stuff done when I got home so I started with the poop in the backyard while Eric made dinner and that took me forever. By the time that was done I was ready for dinner. We watched some Wipeout and I may have done some laundry. I was tired and went to bed semi-early.

Monday 9/6, We were all up early, got ready, showered, packed and went upstairs. Eric attempted to feed Krey but he just looked at him like he was crazy. The three of us headed over to Dick’s for breakfast with French toast, bacon and venison bacon to boot. Everyone hung out and there was a lot of laughing and talking for our last few hours. We packed up and started to head out with tears and laughter and onto the road to Minneapolis. Stopped at Kelly’s with a slight detour, picked up the charger and off to the airport. We dropped Mom, Dad and Aubs then took off for downtown. Drove around, got pulled over, went to the bad part of town and decided to go to St. Paul to explore there since it’s only like 6 miles away. Parked, had some soup for lunch in not a great area though it has the makings for a cooler Pioneer Square if they could get it together. Back in the car, gassed up, headed to the airport, dropped the car off and found out we were an hour too early to check in (like 4 hours before the flight). We sat up above security and watched for the counter to open. We checked in and got exit row seats, yay! Through security, to gate, people watched, took turns walking around, went through mags, boarded and prepared for an hour longer flight home. I put in a movie but it stopped working halfway through which made me not so happy. As we landed we talked to a pilot from Alaska next to us and he told Eric football scores after we landed. I think he had naked pictures of women on his phone. We made it to baggage claim quickly, got the bag, headed to shuttle, took right off, got car quickly and headed home. The dogs were so excited to see us but the house reeked like shit. We spent the next half hour cleaning, stripping the bed, cleaning up pee and poop and finally, exhausted, climbed into bed.

Sunday 9/5, We slept super late because there’s no light in that damn downstairs room, though Eric had been up early. After we left for Uncle Dick’s Ty asked Jodi where “Teric” and his mom were. Hilarious. At Dick’s we had a breakfast of French toast and bacon. Lots of it. Delicious. Sydney and Taylor buried us in all the blankets and pillows they could find as we laid on the floor after breakfast. We started reading each other questions from the kid trivial pursuit and after a while Eric joined in then Derek. We were planning out our day and Derek told us how to get out to his cousin’s farm to meet Clint. Followed Clint to the farm Ron works at to see the automatic milkers and felt incredibly sad at how the cows are kept. I don’t even want to write about it. I know there are way worse barns / operations but I also know there are way better. The machines are pretty impressive but that’s about it. Next the three of us went over to the farm after Clint told us how. Everything looks like hell and the house was covered in cobwebs and dust and dirt and it looked like the water was either turned off or the pump is out. It was really sad but I was glad Eric got to see it even if it didn’t look how it used to. Lots of garbage everywhere. Next we drove around Stewart and Eric took some pictures then called Mom who said they were on their way to DQ which pissed Aubrie off because no one called us. We quickly stopped by Cactus Jack’s then back to Litchfield. We managed to catch everyone there despite the GPS telling us it would take over an hour (actually about 35 minutes). We told everyone about Ron’s living conditions and there were a lot of shaking heads. We all caravanned to see all Dick’s hunting properties. Dad rode with us and we asked him about farm life and the dog that attacked the bull that attacked Grandpa Lloyd. Back to Dick and Roxy’s where we hung out and talked about playing a game then I made Aubrie model Jessica’s dress and I got a perfect Jessica shot on the boat. Soon dinner was served up: steak that was like butter. Danielle and Beau came over and we spent a lot of time talking inside while everyone was down by the fire. We eventually all went down to the fire and lots of talking to Danny and Kelly and they want Alishia’s pitbull but he already got another home. Brett fell asleep in my arms which was really cute. We stayed there for a long time and since Eric and Clint wanted to stay later I drove Derek, Kennedy and Brice home and found out along the way that Jackson has a crush on me. Hilar. Casey and Aubrie followed me and picked me up after I dropped Derek. At the house I got ready, packed up a bit then fell asleep with the lights on. Aubrie fell asleep with the tv on so Eric was extra confused when he got there.

Saturday 9/4, Aubrie and I slept in a bit but I got up earlier than her and met Krey, who had a rash and Jodi needed to take him to the doctor. Ty was eating and pretending to be “baby Krey”. We talked with her for a long time until she needed to go. We got Aubrie up and showed Eric the upstairs then got ready and headed over to Dick and Roxy’s. Aubrie and I ate caramel rolls for breakfast and since we were cold we sat in sun on the floor trying to get warm while all the adults and Eric sat outside. Eventually we migrated out there too and the sun felt good. Back inside we finished my movie from the plane. Soon people started showing up like Roxy’s daughter Jill and her twins. Kelly, Danny and Jackson showed up and soon we boarded the pontoon. Derek and Brice arrived and hopped on. We rode around the lake but it was chilly. Larry, Dick, Casey, Mom, Dad, Eric and Aubs were along too. Pretty much everyone showed up after that including Ron, Eileen and Jerome. We had hot dogs, chicken and burgers for dinner. There was a lot of hanging out, relaxing and eating. Eventually a lot of people left but many of us went down to the fire pit for storytelling and laughing. I told everyone about Eric’s arm show and there was a lot of laughing. Brett sat with me for a while and when I gave him to Stacy he fell asleep right away. We hung there for a long time and when Aubrie was ready we headed back to Clint’s. Aub slept downstairs with us and we went to bed not long after we got back.

Friday 9/3, Eric was up early with Plumber and Aubs and I were up before 9. We had popovers for breakfast and got ready. We set out for the fair shuttle by 10 but unfortunately it was not very nice outside. It was blustery. There was a couple on the bus all dressed up, like olden days type dressed up, and she was ripping him a new asshole and Aubrie and I were trying to hear. It sounded like he left something out in the car, like a charger or something. She was pissed and it was so weird we thought maybe we were on some hidden camera show. At the fair we waited in line and there were already a ton of people. Kelly took us in a backdoor into the pavilion and we looked around and sampled some candy. We went to the Miracle of Birth barn and saw the baby pigs, sheep, cows and goats. I wanted to take one of each home with me. We got going on the food and hit the Aussie potatoes first and we were all impressed with them and shared a plate. The other food we wrangled up was: corn on the cob, milkshake, croc sausage on a stick, cheese curds (Aubs’ fav), deep fried pickle slice and cream cheese mini sandwiches, mini cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting and a scotch egg (hard boiled egg, encased in sausage, deep fried on a stick with horseradish dipping sauce) which was Kelly and Mark’s favorite. We went on Ye Old Saw Mill which was fun but Aubrie was scared of the darkness then her, Eric and Mark went through the haunted house. We wandered around and eventually decided we were set and headed out. We found our bus, stood through the whole ride then drove back to their house. We packed up our stuff and sat on the rug for a while playing and trying to get pictures of Freddy. By 6 or so we headed out on our way to Litchfield. We stopped in Hutch at Econo Foods for some fruit and yogurt. We continued to Uncle Dick and Roxy’s place, but no one was there since they were out to dinner. When all the parents and aunts and uncles came home we talked for a while then headed over to Clint’s. He was still up (everyone else was asleep) and we talked with him for a while in the kitchen, which was fun. It was getting late so finally we got ready for bed. Aubs slept in Casey’s room while we slept in the hunting room.

Thursday 9/2, Eric set his alarm for 6:30 then got up at 7:30. I slept in until 9. We all got ready and ate a nice balanced breakfast of toast (two pieces) and quite a bit of fruit. We headed out and went through the camp ground then J Cooke park which was really pretty. We got some good pictures and continued on our way. We did a lot of driving and eventually ended up back in Duluth and on our way up the North Shore. Beautiful old houses along Lake Superior through north Duluth. We went to Scenic View Café which is owned by Scott, Rosemary’s son Brian’s best friend before he died. He looks like Stephen Baldwin but without the squinty eyes. We had a really wonderful lunch and he came out and talked with us for a long time. We had dessert and it was super delicious: pot de crème and also a deconstructed spumoni with a chocolate mousse, fresh raspberries and pistachio “fairy floss” or cotton candy imported from Iran via Australia. Or maybe that was just the recipe. Can’t remember. We continued on our way North and hit the little Scandinavian store and I liked the dog then back South where we stopped at the candy shop. I got salted turtles with dark chocolate and some caramels that are something fancy and delicious. Eric and Larry got the homemade ice cream bars that were delicious and I had a few bites. We didn’t have time to go to Gooseberry Falls; next time. We went back to their house and Larry fell asleep on the way. We packed up quickly and soaked up some of the water that had gotten inside when I left the windows down the night before. Eric drove and I navigated. I got a call from the vet on the biopsy results and the news isn’t great: osteo sarcoma which gives him a medium life expectancy of a year. They don’t know. Chemo could extend it 12 – 18 more months but even that’s not a guarantee and frankly I can’t afford it. That was really depressing but I only let myself cry for a second then pulled it together and tried not to think about it. Eric was great and tried to make me laugh. The weather got better as we neared the city. Found Kelly and Mark’s place fine and she was there waiting for us with the cats and the new pup. Cats: Bojangles, Libby, Belle and Plumber; Dog: Freddy. ADORABLE and sassy! Pom rescue. She showed us the new changes and everything looked so awesome. We chatted for a while until Mark came home and we decided on dinner plans, changed and set out. The Twins and Vikings were playing at the same time which is apparently the first time ever. We parked in Mark’s garage then went down to look into the new park. Eric sat in the golden glove and it was cute. I took a picture. We walked around downtown and Kelly and I read the baseball player artwork with the facts. Kind of fun. We went to an Irish pub that has lawn bowling on the roof and it was so awesome. Every f-ing hipster in Seattle would live at that place and you could charge an arm and a leg. It was really cool. We walked over to the Foshay tower next and through the W lobby up to Prohibition. Mark, Eric and I took a lap around and I loved the bathrooms! Open to each other and sharing a trough style sink, they both had incredible views with huge windows. I finished going around first and went back to sit with Kelly. There was a guy talking to her and I thought he was probably hitting on her. Then we heard some very suspicious conversation involving a hundred dollars and getting the phone number of the woman he was with, who one minute he seemed to be chummy with and the next it was like he’d just met her. Later in the elevator back down we discussed what had happened and we determined she was probably a hooker combined with their prior experience with a similar incident. Or he was after hard drugs. He had originally asked Kelly if she was in town on business which is what we were guessing was his opening line to find out who his escort for the night was. We decided to try the Wondrous Azian place and it was ehh. We were convinced we were going to be late to pick Aubrie up from the airport so we didn’t hurry; however, Mark was scared of angering Aubrie which made me laugh. The Twins game was supposed to be getting out when we were going but they went into extra innings (like 13) so we made it out without incident and eventually to the Sheraton. We were over by the Mall of America but that wasn’t right. We made it and headed with everyone (Mom, Dad, Larry, Rosemary, Aubs, Mark, Kelly and me) to TGIFs and hung out. It was like 10:30 and I certainly wasn’t hungry so we just talked. Dad lost it (laughing) when Kelly told how Mark slept on the couch with Freddy when there was lightening. We stuck around for a while then headed back to Kelly’s and got ready for bed. Aubs loved Freddy. We took the guest bedroom and Eric slept on the couch with Plumber.

Wednesday 9/1, Eric was up at 3:30 and I was up on and off from 4:00 to 4:30. We hurried around, took care of the dogs and hit the road. No traffic and Eric drove. I was really tired. Parking was fine, luggage was average and security went pretty quick. We had some extra time so I got a scone that was garbage and was glad I’d brought a banana. Flight went quickly especially since it was under 3 hours. That’s shorter than going to SD! I watched most of Alex and Emma which is ridiculous but also has some funny parts. Eric just shook his head and declined my offer to watch. We landed, got our bags, over to the car rental, requested an American over the Japanese since it was Dad’s dime and off we went in our Dodge Avenger. We were a little turned around until Eric got the GPS working then we were on the right track, no problem. We stopped at a Chipotle on the way up 35W and had a nice lunch outside. The weather was gorgeous. I ate most of mine which made me very full. We continued our drive north and saw many a-hilarious billboard. Pump and Munch, KFC buffet with 30 items and a totally racist Obama one showing a black guy burning the Constitution. A bit of a stretch in my opinion. We found their house fine and relaxed for a bit. I called Mom and we chatted for a while then Rosemary came home with Larry arriving a few minutes later. We did hellos and figured out when Mom and Dad were coming in and started getting ready to go up to Duluth. I showered quickly and we headed out. We went down to the Rose Garden and walked through a little car show then continued our walk along the boardwalk over to Grandma’s (a few miles I think) and the weather was really warm. I was not wearing great shoes for walking long distances. We sat outside and had a nice dinner with plenty of conversation. A giant barge came through and we got to see the bridge go straight up to accommodate it. Crazy. Next we went over to some little mall with lots of cute shops and I bought Eric two root beers (that we forgot at Larry and Rosemary’s the next day) and then to a café for a hot fudge sundae that’s their favorite but the fudge was burnt. Oh well. We walked it off all the way back to the rose garden talking about substance abuse and I didn’t know Rosemary went to Al-Anon for almost 30 years. We were all tired by the end of that. At their house we watched the end of the Twins game and it was a fairly exciting end. Then it was onto the local news and we had a few chuckles over that. We were all sleepy so we retired. I called Dad and let him know we made it and also that the Niles hadn’t come yet. He was not happy. Asked about Mom’s surgery and he said she was on drugs and a little doped up. Read a bit of a magazine and dozed off to sleep while Eric watched some podcasts.

Tuesday 8/31, I talked to Jess after work and told her I’d meet her at the mall. I ran home and changed then hurried down to BS. She tried on a bunch of outfits for her interview and I told her which ones I liked. She got some cute ones. We went back to my house and Eric had dinner ready for us to eat: pot roast, mashed potatoes and a light gravy with cherry tomatoes and mushrooms. It was good and Jess was very impressed with the taste AND presentation. After dinner (and Jess finished feeding the little dogs) we watched the video Mom made so Jess could see herself in it. Michelle called and bowed out of watching the dogs which was ok because Mom said she could do it. We continued talking and Jess took off after 9 maybe. I finished a few other things then hit the hay. Eric stayed up later I think because he was so excited.

Monday 8/30, Stayed a little late at work which I think appeased P. After work my goal was to finish cleaning and packing for the trip. Eric and I ran down to Office Depot in Bellevue to pick up a GPS but they were out of the one we wanted so we went home and I think decided on Chipotle for dinner and ate it at home. I called the Issaquah one and they had one so we went down there and picked it up. Eric watched tv in the den all night and I ran around and packed and did laundry. I don’t think I went to bed too late.

Sunday 8/29, We woke up when Jess’ aunt and uncle came over for breakfast. I got ready and we ate breakfast (I kept it under control) and talked in the living room. After they left we went in the hot tub and Billy dropped by to say hi because he was moving and saw my car. We were in the hot tub for a long time talking about investments. We showered off and continued talking. I needed to take off but Day wanted to send me home with some food and made a ton extra for the express purpose of me taking food home. There was so much of it it was ridiculous. Billy stopped by again to say hi and tell us about his new place. Made it home pretty quickly and Eric tweaked the dinner to get it ready. We ate in front of the tv and we cleaned up a bit afterward. I think we went to bed semi-early.

Saturday 8/28, Eric and I took the dogs for a walk when we got up just around the block. I went up to Crossroads and bought my lotto tickets, picked up dish soap, and hit Westernco for a custard old fashioned. I showed Eric I had not been good when I got home. He wanted to go out to lunch but we ate there instead. I showered and got ready for Ernie’s party. Went over to Mom’s at 3 to go through all Grandma’s stuff AL sent. Dad left early to pick up Audrey and Alix rode with me up North. We had quite the caravan: Mom, me and Alix, Kass and Jake and Eric bringing up the rear. We drove up to Ernie’s party and luckily there were a lot of people I knew including Amy’s parents, Claude, Becky and Katie. We took pictures and talked and Kassie left before dinner. Dinner was catered (Kaspar’s) and very good. The weather warmed up quite a bit from earlier. Eric and I left (separately) a little after 7 and I called Jess on the way. Jess and Day ate when I got up there and Jess and I went and got ice cream at the little store. I checked my lotto numbers but didn’t win. Back at home we ate lots of ice cream and talked on the couch until we were tired then climbed into Day’s bed. It was maybe midnight.

Friday 8/27, I walked the dogs around block and started falling asleep on the bed so I decided to get up and make the dogs' dinner then I could nap guilt free. While I was making it Eric came home, apparently it was freezing at Rainier and they decided to come back a day early. I started to wake up so we went to Chipotle for dinner and brought it home and watched tv. I wanted to watch Young Victoria but ended up being too tired and crawled into bed instead.

Thursday 8/26, Eric left in the morning to go to Schuyler and Chrystol's for camping. I got home at a decent time and was all on my own for the next couple days since Eric wasn’t planning to come home until Saturday. I relaxed and did a couple things here and there, walked the dogs around the block, then showered. Kass came and picked me up to go to P's for the evening. The food situation was dismal, only appetizer kind of stuff, not enough food! Oh well. It was entertaining talking to everyone then P let loose about why Kass shouldn't invite E&E to her wedding and how she's not going. I've heard it all before and it's just awkward. Chip and I talked instead. We wrapped everything up and were out of there by 8:30 and talked all the way home about weddings. I got ready for bed and crashed out by 10 or so.

Wednesday 8/25, Jake's birthday and I had agreed to go out to dinner but then Mom called with a change of plans and that she was making dinner and to come over to the house. Headed over and sat in traffic for 20 minutes. Ate dinner and dessert then Jake was unhappy with his bday present so him and his gf went and sulked in his bedroom. I stayed and talked for a while which was nice. Headed home not too much later. Eric was prepping for his camping trip with C&S. I don't remember how late I went to bed.

Tuesday 8/24, I was off a little late again, home and tidied up a bit, showered and Eric showed me the yard and was defensive when I asked about the dogwoods. I just want the rootball covered but he doesn’t think it will do any good. C&S came over at 6:30 and we talked about the wedding around the table then Kristel showed up and us girls talked while the boys grilled. It was a really fun night with talking and lots of eating. We talked about our night with J&S too and Schuyler wanted to know how to get in on that deal. Kristel left at 8:30 and C&S stayed until 11:30. Got ready for bed, read, fell asleep by midnight.

Monday 8/23, I got off a little later than I was supposed to since P’s been laying it on thick that she’s not happy I’m leaving at my early August 3:30 time, even though it’s one of my benefits. I ran around house cleaning up pee and seeing what Eric had accomplished during the day. Sos and Jake came over at 6 and we went to I Love Sushi in Bellevue. Sos was being frisky with grabbing nipples and being semi-vulgar; it was hilarious. She was real sassy. We had a fun dinner and headed over to Whole Foods to find desserts. On the way back to the cars we talked about fantasies and making out but Sos reminded me: only in dreams apparently. Then it was revealed that Sos performs things 1-2 times every time she’s on her period. I shook my head that that’s not normal. Hilarious. We went back to the house and it was about 8, they took off, we lounged for the rest of the night.

Sunday 8/22, Eric was up with the dogs and let me sleep in. I got up at 9 and Eric wanted to go to breakfast so we went into Issaquah and went to the Café. I had a breakfast sandwich after Eric talked me out of the biscuits and gravy. We went to All the Best for more dog food and Leslie (?) is always so nice to me, it's great. Next we went to Costco for supplies and lastly to REI where I used up my credit to buy some Dr. Brommer's. We went home and loaded up the truck with Kassie's stuff. We went over to Mom's to pick up the key and drop off some stuff there. Kass' house smelled really bad. We left all her stuff, picked up the table and went back to Mom's, dropped the table and went home. Eric heated up some food for me then I decided to watch I Heart Huckabees and fell asleep for a good 1.5-2 hours. Eric made enchiladas for dinner and we ate late. I watched AFV and set the alarm to wake up at midnight to give Castor his pain pill.

Saturday 8/21, Got up and went for a walk with Nyx. We cleaned the garage out and made a lot of headway with other cleaning things. We found an old tv-style stand on wheels that totally fits the era of the house, which I insisted on bringing in and putting in the rec room for the full effect. We went to lunch at Spice Route with Sos and Jake. The manager from Office Depot was there and he reminds me of Michael Scott. It was a nice lunch and we talked about interracial p*rn as we left. When we got home I took a nap because we decided traffic was too bad to try to go over to Kass’. I slept for a while then up, talked to Kristel about plans for the evening, got ready and headed out around 7. I so didn’t want to go out but knew I needed to. There wasn’t any traffic and parking was easy. Went up to Kristel’s and had pizza and gossip. I told her about my life crisis and she had lots of tips and insight. We went up to Unicorn to meet up with Vin and Jake. I realized there might be a make out loophole with gay guys and texted Eric about it. We stayed there for 45 minutes or so then headed down to Cowgirls. We sat in traffic forever since there was a Seahawks game just ending. Finally made it and found out from the bouncer who apparently remembered me (and was like “Haven’t seen you for a while”) that Andy now works at Cobra. Note to self: that is right around the corner from Belltown Billiards. We went in and danced and I picked out the guys I wanted to make out with. That’s the problem with going out dancing. We had fun but I felt a little awkward with the boys since I really didn’t know them. They enjoyed themselves and Vin said he wanted to come back when his family came to town. We left after an hour or so and headed up to Neumos for Northern Exposure. Kristel and I were totally out of our element (since we are not shirtless gay men) but I did see Dave, the bouncer. He didn’t remember me right away until I told him how he knew me. He said it was an interesting night to see me there, and I was like “you’re telling me”. We stayed there for a long time and danced and finally left the boys there around 1:45. Kristel dropped me at my car and I drove home. Eric texted me just as I was driving down 148th. I climbed into bed but it took a while to fall asleep.

Friday 8/20, We were at home all day and Castor slept for most of it. Eric made chicken burgers that were very good and I watched 48 Hours (girl suicide) and another one about the Craiglist killer. The suicide one was really disturbing. Eric went out to see Expendables. I managed to ice Castor's face for about 10 minutes which was a huge success since the night before he wasn’t having any of it at all. I was feeling kind of down after Eric left but tried not to get too bad. I know I’m probably going to fluctuate for a while. I psyched myself up for all that I was going to get done the next day then looked at myself in the mirror and gave myself a pep talk. I think it helped. I was still up when Eric got back and he loved the movie. Went to bed.

Thursday 8/19, Talked to Kass as I was walking out the door leaving work. She was very upset about my pic of Castor and needed to be consoled. I told her it had gone well and that we were picking him up that day. I went home and we left to pick up Castor. We had a laundry list of instructions and it was more $$ than expected. That was a huge bummer especially when the estimate was for more surgery than they were expecting to perform and for less money. That really sucked. At home he rested all night with his cone. I felt a little better than the previous days, though I knew it would be baby steps to get back to normal. I think Eric went to the store and picked up food for us. I had the next day off so that was thrilling.

Wednesday 8/18, Eric had his exit interview. I stopped and got Castor food after work (all soft because he can’t have kibble for a few weeks) then home. We went to SVS to see Castor and I was so nervous. I didn’t know what to expect and covered my eyes when the nurse brought him in. He looked terrible but not as bad as I thought he would. He was incredibly anxious for a while then finally calmed down and laid on the floor. He had little drool / blood droplets coming out of his mouth and he was very whiney. I felt terrible but Eric was incredibly optimistic. I sat on the floor and just pet him for a long time. He fell asleep then the nurse came and got him. He didn’t want to go with her and kept looking back at us which killed me but it was only going to be one more day. We went home and Eric made chicken for dinner. We watched American Beauty, took a walk around the block with the little dogs (to get me out of the house – Eric’s mission), showered, got into bed, watched Seinfeld and updated this before falling asleep.

Tuesday 8/17, We took Castor to the vet for his surgery which was very emotional. Luckily Eric was there which made it easier. After I got off work we went for a long walk to Phantom Lake and had a big talk. Things need to change and we talked about how I feel like I’ve lost myself and Eric’s mission has become getting me to get back into my old habits and my goal is to make myself get out of my rut. Nothing is going to change unless I start going outside my comfort zone and getting back into the old stuff. It was hot and by the time we got back I was thirsty. Mom stopped by, but I can’t remember for what. We watched Office and Eric made flank steak, rice and veggies. I watched Plain Jane then we went to Mom's to pick up fountain. We talked for a while about Eric going to CA to work for a few months but I was tired and wanted to get home so we didn’t stick around too long. Felt weird not having Castor there. Surgery went well and they didn’t have to take out as much of his jaw as they expected. They told us we could visit him the next day.

Monday 8/16, I left work early and headed down to Ballard for my facial with Meghan. It was wonderful and lasted over an hour. I felt so good afterward. It was super hot outside and luckily traffic wasn’t too bad on the way home. Eric suggested Chipotle for dinner. After that I don’t remember and we probably were preparing for Castor’s surgery and relaxing. Oh yes, Eric quit his job.

Sunday 8/15, We tried to sleep in and ended up waking up at 8. We got ready and packed up then headed down to check out. We explored the little store and the beachfront before going over to Schuyler and Chrystol's little rented house. It was a really cute little house with really modern details. We set out for a nice drive around island which was really beautiful. Eventually we migrated back to Chrystol's for breakfast. I ate too much then went with C to get the guest book. Eric's bj picture was hilarious and made most people laugh. The present opening started and we got about halfway through before we had to take off because the ferry was really backed up. We bid farewell and waited in line forever (over an hour) and it was so hot. Jason and Jen snuck up on us then we talked for a while. We were the last car on the first ferry after the lunch break. We drove home with no ac and I was in sun whole time. I was tired, dehydrated, had to pee and cranky when we got home. I took off after not too long to pick up Sos and Jake at the airport and I was super tired. Brought them home then went back to Southcenter to meet Mom, Heidi, Hailey and Ryan for dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. I so didn’t want to and Mom said not to worry about it but you never know how long you’ll have the people you love in your life and a couple hours wouldn’t kill me even though all I wanted to do was go home and go to bed. I think a big part was that I needed food because I felt so much better after I ate. I took off after hugs and kisses and relaxed before going to bed.

Saturday 8/14, Eric got up and left early like 5. He was so excited to get started. I got up at 8 and got ready and checked out then went to the store for an apple, banana and yogurt for breakfast. I drove to the ferry and called Mom. When we boarded I noticed Brandon was behind me with Tong. I got out and talked to him and asked him if he knew where he was going and he didn’t so I told him to follow me. Drove to Chrystol's and kept helping set up until 12:30 or so. Everyone in the wedding party was MIA because they were getting ready and doing pictures so it was all the non-wedding party folk still getting things completed. Jen and I went to the yurt a little before 1 to get ready. Figured out our situation and took our shower tokens and went and cleaned up. Jen was appreciative since we were covered in dirt and sweat. We got ready and I received my first compliment on the dress from a lady walking to the bathrooms. We went back to the property and just loitered around waiting for things to get started. It was getting hot and pictures were still being taken so I was wandering around on my own for a long time. Sam and Justin were both there so I talked with both of them, but then Sam played drums for most of the reception so I didn’t talk to him much after that. People kept showing up by the van-full. Finally the ceremony started and we were all right in the sun and super hot. It was a beautiful ceremony and their vows were both so sweet. Eric made people laugh by making fun of Schuyler’s cowboy boots. It was a great ceremony with lots of laughter and touching moments. Afterward everyone just hung out and looked at the collages. A group of us sat down and ate and talked which was C&S, Jason, Jen, B, Tong me and Eric. It was fun and eventually the dancing started. I took a break and talked to B for a loooong time. We talked about our relationship, his that just ended, our dogs, his living situation and other things. It was good and he emphasized how bad he felt since breaking up with me and I told him it was ok and that it turned out for the best, which he agreed and likes Eric and is glad I’m with him. There was a lot more dancing but only about 10 of us out there at a time so I danced to most of the songs by Creeping Time. We took some funny Big Foot pictures and other pictures then more dancing til music stopped. I was so tired but we talked to Bob, Chrystol’s dad for a long time and eventually started to meander back to the car. We saw C&S who were supposed to have left 45 minutes earlier but were just standing in the shadows watching everyone still there. We took off for the yurt around midnite and turned on the heat while we went and washed our feet off. When we got back we cuddled in bed and talked and looked out the top of our little yurt for the night. Eventually we went to sleep.

Friday 8/13, We got up early and finished packing. I took Castor for a walk and got ready. We set out to Mom’s to pick up the food for the rehearsal dinner and were soon on our way. We stopped at the outlets so I could get some bra / boob cover things so I wouldn’t have to wear my strapless bra with my new dress. Turns out they didn’t work anyway so I still had to wear the bra. Arg. We made it to Anacortes fairly quickly and without incident. We got to the San Juan Motel and checked in. It was interesting and I took pictures so we could show Chrystol. I was on my period bad which totally sucked because I knew we’d be doing lots of work at her parents’ property and the next day would be just as bad. We set out for Guemes and took the ferry over. We were put right to work helping set up. After a while Jason and Jen showed up and we all continued to bust it out until 7ish. We finally had the rehearsal and Jen and I were put to work for the next day’s events and procession. After we headed to the community center to eat dinner. There was grilling and milling. We all sat around outside and ate and it was really fun. Lots of talking and laughing. We were exhausted and wanted to go back to the hotel and didn’t want to wait for the last ferry so Schuyler took us back to the car and we booked it down to the ferry and luckily caught it. Aubrey was waiting to walk on and to her parents’ house so she hopped in with us and we took her over. We went to the hotel and went to sleep pretty quickly.

Thursday 8/12, Had not a great day. P went off on me about Castor and enlightened me to all her opinions that I didn’t ask for. It was a hard day that started out with not knowing what to do with Eric and then crying at work. Emotional wreck, emotionally draining, emotionally exhausted. At home I told Eric all the things she said and he was ready to call her and tell her to go eff herself. I was still not happy with him and was trying to figure out how to bring that up. He suggested going for a walk so we went toward Phantom Lake and I confronted him and we had a decent argument. I was crying again, surprise. We hashed it out and went to the fruit stand. He enlightened me to a few things that had occurred and I felt better but was still pissed he had not been honest with me and that I found out from Chrystol. At home I told Eric about the lady at the show who now I can’t remember and that she was doing a show that night. He suggested we go and after trying to call ahead for a table we just went down to see if we could get in. Eric drove but when we got down there there were tickets available but no tables. We were hungry so we took off and looked around for food. No dice so we went back 520 and went to Burgermaster. Decent dinner, though not exactly what I wanted to be eating two days before going to C&S’ wedding. At home I packed a bit and I think we went to bed a little late.

Wednesday 8/11, Eric stayed home again and he used one of the screens from the pool room and took it over to the condo and that worked. I rushed home, showered, left by 4:30 and made it downtown by 5. It was really warm and while I sat in my car waiting for 5:30 to roll around I called Susan and started my walk over to Black Bottle. I waited a while because they were running late from manicures. It was Aubrey, Gretchen, Mara and Chrystol (bachelorette party). We had a nice dinner except I was informed of events that took place at the bachelor party that I wasn't pleased to hear about (just the not being told part). I was really pissed off actually. The rest of dinner was great. We walked over to Can Can for WTF Wednesday. We were informed that just because we had a reservation it didn’t mean we had a table. Fuuuuck. It was hot in there and we were going to be standing for a long time. We actually got a pretty good spot for having to stand. We had a blast and it was the best thing I've seen in a while. Plus it was $10. Same as a movie but way more entertaining. Favorite quote of the night was “Welcome to the jungle bitches, you’re gonna die!” then Chrystol wanted to call Eric and scare him with it. Chrystol thought the Muse segment represented my and Eric’s sex life and after it was over she was like “Your sex life is hot” which made me laugh. There was another one, like a baboon and Chrystol was like “I hope he shows us his blue baboon butt!” and then he did and we laughed so hard. It was great and I loved the main lady, then the guest lady was hilarious, and Chrystol loved the Heath Ledger look-alike. Jen joined us part way through the show. After the show ended we walked across the street to the Déjà Vu or whatever sex shop cause Chrystol wanted something she was inspired by in the show. No luck, they didn’t have them. We walked to Palace Kitchen for dessert. The night was quickly winding down. We paid and walked to Aubrey’s car and she gave me a ride to mine. I was really pissed driving home seething about Eric not telling me. When I got home it was about 12:15, talked to Eric for a bit but I was upset with him and told him I was tired and went to sleep. Plotting how I could get through to him and thought involving an ex-bf would be a good way.

Tuesday 8/10, We tried to put the screen door in but it was a piece of shit. Mom called that Alix wanted to go out for dinner before she went back to school so I went over and we went to Cafe Flora. I left Eric to deal with the door fiasco. At dinner I got the French Dip and we had good conversation. Saw Blane or Blake from Project Runway a few seasons back and took a picture with my phone. I went home and Eric was still not feeling well. Went online for a while then to sleep.

Monday 8/9, Eric didn't feel good and was tired so he stayed home. After work I picked up the tv at FedEx and it JUST fit in the backseat. Phew. We were supposed to go over to the condo and put the screen door in for K & J but Eric asked if we could do it the next day. I texted J and he was fine with it. Eric put the tv together and we watched Quantum of Solace and he fell asleep. I watched it all. For dinner did leftovers again and hung out for the rest of the night. I think I went to bed before 10.

Sunday 8/8, Eric had Schuyler's bachelor party and left around 10. I expected he would be gone for most of the day. I got ready and went over to Kristel's at 11. I tried on my dress and all the shoes for her opinion and she liked the gladiator sandals or the BCBG so I decided to keep the BCBG. On sale and most comfy. We talked a lot and I ran my plan by her for dropping off the gift for Eric's baby and she was down. We ventured out to Greenwood, dropped it on the porch stealthily since I was too nervous to knock on the door - afraid Nicole would answer. We then headed down to Gorditos for a birthday lunch. We shared a burrito and continued talking. She was going to do yoga and meet her Mom so I dropped her off at her place and went to meet up with Trist at the Columbia City Bakery. Eric sent me a message on facebook saying his phone was broken but wanted to acknowledge that he’d found the present. Traffic was undesirable due to Seafair festivities but parking was a breeze. We sat outside and talked for a few hours. It was good to catch up and I think we decided it’s been 7 years. 7! Geez, time flies. I went home and hung with the dogs. I had leftovers for dinner and called and texted Eric. He informed me he wouldn't be home for a while. I went to bed and he didn't come home until 2am.

Saturday 8/7, We got up and ready but took our time and eventually headed over to Mom's with Sos. Mom was upset the night before that we hadn’t come over to help take the fountain apart. We were tired. The birthday party went well, though the clouds prohibited the Blue Angels from doing the full show. The wings were like glowing from the condensation or something combined with the heat of the wings; never seen that before. Susan, Kristel, Michelle, Tony and Sos all made it. It was a nice group. After the show we had cake and we sat in the dining room and talked for a long time. Back at home we relaxed for the latter part of the day. Eric went and got Chinese food and he fell asleep at 7:30. I hung in the bedroom watching shows sleepily. I just wanted to go to bed at like 9:30 and thought the 48 Hours would be over by 10 but it dragged on until 11.

Friday 8/6, I had my leftovers for dinner then we ventured out to Nordstrom where I found the perfect new dress (Nanette Lepore). Eric helped for a little bit but then went off to Banana Republic and got new pants and shoes. We went home and Eric talked me into a movie so we left early to go to the Rack where I picked out three pairs of shoes for the dress. We went down to Renton (Landing) to see Dinner for Schmucks and talked to Mom and Dad as we walked up to the movie. I told them about my present and the dress. The movie was funny. We were home late and went to bed.

Thursday 8/5, Got home early and scooped dog poop in the backyard whilst waiting for Eric to get home. He told me we were going to Pearl so we got ready and took off a little early so we could go to Paper Source. Picked up some cards. Went and had dinner which was good but I didn’t finish it all. Eric gave me my birthday present which was a gift card to Nordstrom so I could get a new dress for C&S’ wedding. I couldn’t justify it after learning about Castor’s surgery price and having cut all spending. I was so excited. He wouldn’t tell me how much was on it because he didn’t want me to get mad. Guess I’d find out later. We went home after some dessert and watched tv. Both were asleep by 10:30.

Wednesday 8/4, Finally heard from Castor's doc and his swollen lymph appears to be reactive, yay! Such a relief. That put me in a very good mood. After work I filled the yard waste with shit sitting in the back by the shed, then stuffed the recyclables in the bin. Inside I made the bed and waited for Eric to come home. Talked to Susan for a little bit then Eric arrived and started loading up the truck but we still needed to get the screen door for the townhouse so he had to unload and off we went. He was in a terrible mood from work and is most likely going to go down and work for Skylar for a few months in the fall. He cooled off by the time we got to HD and we found the screens, had to call Jason for clarification on the size and off we went. Eric wanted to take me to dinner so I fed the dogs and we loaded the truck bed up with shit for the dump and soon we were on our way into downtown Bellevue. We decided on Garlic Crush and it was really really good. I couldn't even eat a quarter of my gyros plate. Boxed it up and off we went. We stopped at Whole Foods for a cookie and razors then to Super Supplements for deodorant and Castor's pills then home. Relaxed for the rest of the evening, talked to Mom for a bit and eventually into bed to read. I sang Eric a song about wind from the fan blowing through his hair which he didn't appreciate but I know he thought was funny. I read until about 9:45 then fell asleep.

Tuesday 8/3, Still waiting for call from vet about the lymph node, no dice. I was home early again, cleaned up the kitchen, rolled up the rug in dining room since it reeks of dog piss, did other chores to make the house a little cleaner. Watered plants and made a list of all the things we need to do. Eric came home and we went to Home Depot where we picked up supplies for around the house, showerhead and a curtain rod. We had leftovers again, so much food in that damn fridge. I took a long shower and while I was in there Eric got everything set up for a romantic evening and we shut ourselves in the bedroom for a while. Eric watched tv in the living room and I fell asleep reading a magazine in bed.

Monday 8/2, Eric took Mom and Dad to the airport in the morning. I was off work at 3:30 since it’s now August and took the opportunity to walk the dogs. I did a few little things around the house but felt tired so I sat down and relaxed. We had leftovers, I watered the plants, not too exciting of a night. Eric went to sleep early because he was tired from being up at 4:30.

Sunday 8/1, Eric was up early and everyone else slept in, a miracle! It was like 8 or 8:30 by the time Mom and Dad woke up. Eric made scones and Dad and he set off for Costco and Lowe's. Mom and I went to the store for orange juice, yogurt and milk. When we got home we set everything up for staining the fence and set to it. It took a while but we got a good system going. It was cold and Mom was freezing. We thought the boys, who were setting up the speakers throughout the house by wiring under the house, would beat us but we ended up beating them. We started around 10:30 and finished by 2:10. It was a long process. We ate lunch and wanted to fix some for the boys but their work wasn't done yet and they didn't want it. Something went wrong with the Niles, like it was busted or something so we couldn't finish. However, we figured out how to play the tv though the speakers and through my JVC receiver. Crazy. Channel changing and everything. Haven't figured out the volume yet. We all cleaned up and went to DQ for some treats. I got a new mini oreo cheesecake blizzard. When we finished we went over to the Subaru dealership and perused the cars. Found out all the info on all three contenders and left with some materials and Wally's card. Took off for Kassie's house to show Mom and Dad. They had lots of questions but agreed it is cute. Back home and sat for a little bit until we started getting hungry and called in some Chinese. Eric and I left for the store to pick up wine then over to pick up the food. Talked about how Dad wants to buy me a new flat screen but I told him no. I wouldn't be surprised if one ended up on my doorstep. We ate dinner and I was super full, not hungry to begin with. I think we watched tv for a bit, then talked to Kass about bachelorette party ideas and she wants to do a cruise, Ibiza or Mexico. My vote is cruise or Mexico, closer and less costly. So now I have to do some research. That made Mom upset but then we looked at hotels in Sonoma and prices on cruises and she seemed better. We went to bed not too late.

Saturday 7/31, Eric was up early cleaning the kitchen from when we had everyone over. We did chores and I took Brizo to her dr appt at 9. She got an injection and meds for the constant vomiting problem. We went home and Eric was in bed. I laid down for a while too since I was tired but didn’t get any sleep. We got up and did some more chores and things outside waiting for Mom and Dad to arrive from Plain. Mom showed up and stayed for a long time talking about K & S. She left and I laid down again. Mom and Dad came an hour or so later. We showed them around again to show all the updates then Dad took a nap and Eric and Mom went to the store. Dad and Eric game planned the speakers. Mom and I got ready for dinner and finally we left by 6:45 for Arnie's up in Mukilteo. Had a really nice birthday dinner (another one) and had the same waitress from two Christmas's ago. Enjoyed a little dessert and headed over to the old house. Sat and reminisced for a while, saw Rose's old houses and LeAnne and Allen’s old house is for sale, her house isn't hers anymore. Made our way home and we were all very tired; Mom fell asleep in the backseat with me. At home we all went to bed pretty quickly.

Friday 7/30, I walked the dogs knowing Eric wouldn't be home until 6. I showered, we both got ready and went to Agua Verde to meet up with Chrystol and Schuyler. We waited a long time down by the water as we waited for a table. We talked about weddings and the drama at the family reunion. We got a table, talked more, ordered, ate and went back to their house after dinner. Chrystol mentioned something about B’s gf not coming to the wedding because things aren’t so good. She said it’s really sad. I wanted to know more but didn’t ask questions. We walked into Ballard to find something to do. There are so many changes and new shops / restaurants I couldn’t believe it. I’ve been a hermit for so long. We went to Cupcake Royale and sat down for coffee. We walked back to their house and left for home. We went to bed around midnight.

Thursday 7/29, Rushed home to get ready for everyone coming over. I picked up, got all the chairs set up in the courtyard, moved the table, fed the dogs, showered, got ready, made the bed, got pissed about wet clothes I'd left in the dryer without turning it on, rewashed them, did another load after that, opened all the windows and finally ready for people to show up. Hakim and Carmen were first and Carmen was making a berry crumble for dessert. Eric had been busting ass in the kitchen since he got home. Sos and Jake showed up right at 7 and we all went outside and snacked; there was so much food. Dinner was almost ready so we sat down and Eric brought it all out. Everything was really good and everyone loved the salmon. Hakim, Jake and I had the chicken. Hakim had both. It was a really nice visit but sad Josh didn't make it over (working). Kristel showed up around 8 and nibbled here and there. I cleaned up a bit and Carmen dished up dessert which was excellent. I wanted seconds but refrained. We sat outside talking until 10 or so and just had a lot of fun. Lots of laughing. I'm sure the neighbors weren't thrilled, but it wasn't too late. I cleaned up a little more then everyone started coming inside and saying goodbyes. Hakim and Carmen move this weekend and Sos and Jake next month. It's sad. There were so many of us in the same city for the last few years and now it's going to feel like a ghost town. Got the dogs ready for bed and found someone had chewed up the THIRD tube of chapstick out of my purse this time. Frick! I was pissed. That's three in like 2 weeks. Thank god it's all organic, but can't imagine the plastic is very good for the old pipes. Maybe the chapstick works as a lubricant. Ish. Got ready for bed and fell asleep after 11.

Wednesday 7/28, I dropped Castor at the vet before work and left early to pick him up from the vet. Traffic was a nightmare so it took me longer than expected to get there, waited and they brought him out. The two techs love him and both said separately how good he is and what a cool dog he is. Breaks my heart. He was out of it and ready to go so we took off. Home at 6 (hour and a half since leaving work!), and Grandma and Papa arrived just after I did. I showed them the house and told Grandma about my plans. We went up to the Crossroads Bar and Grill or whatever for dinner. It was fun to spend time with them by ourselves. Dinner was ehhh, but afterward we drove around trying to find their old condo without success. We headed back home and said goodbye. We watched Paul play for the president then I played on the computer, got ready for bed, asleep by 11. Dreamt I was invited to Chr*s M*lally's wedding but didn't rsvp in time to actually go. I was really touched he invited me but then sad that he wasn't marrying me.

Tuesday 7/27, Came home and started right away on the work. Eric spent hours in the yard and I helped pull weeds in the courtyard. Mostly I cleaned inside and spent the most time on the bathrooms. Took forever but listened to new LCD Soundsystem then Mumford and Sons. After we got most of our work done we went to Home Depot and picked up stain for the fence, 11 boxes of flooring (on sale!) and some new doormats. Headed home with a stop at QFC for some things and at home Eric made steak soft tacos at 9. We went to bed at 10:30.

Monday 7/26, Sos called and invited us for dinner but we were both so tired we passed. I told her about Castor and started crying. Busy running from one end of the house to the other trying to clean then found puke on the carpet. Took a while to clean it and I was so frustrated and right then Eric came home and walked in the room as I was on my hands and knees with cleaner and cleaning cloths around me and he had flowers and a card and it made me start crying again. We hugged for a long time and I just cried. He told me he's there for me and loves me. I am so drained. Pulled it together and kept cleaning. Eric made steaks for dinner on a little bed of salad in addition to tomato, mozzarella and pesto on the side. Didn't clean up and instead took a shower and washed the little dogs and cleaned and washed them up. Brizo loves getting out and rubbing all over and running around the house. Got ready for bed not too much later.