This Summer

7/14/2014

    Been a while. Summer's been mostly working on the To-Do list. Not terribly exciting. Last weekend, Xander and I went over to the Ranch to goof around. It's much more relaxing; without Harold, a foot in the grave, demanding all of Tina's time/energy. 

That's her grandson's job.

My mother-in-law is currently figuring out how to minimize the damage that Harold's f'd up will is wreaking. He so wanted to be generous but didn't leave any $ with which to do so. But Tina signed off on his estate planning when they updated everything 3 or 4 years ago. Wish she hadn't so completely trusted all his assurances.

One benefit is Tina's current #1 priority is making sure her will will be trouble-free for her heirs. A goal I can whole-heartedly support.

Wendi is about a month into her new job at Group Health. We love the new income. She is struggling to keep up with the paperwork. This is the first full-time job she's had since Xander was born. 

I've done one day hike so far this summer; last week. It was a 14-mile slog and I was embarrassingly sore the next day (or two). 

My compadre S and I plan several more day hikes, all in the Olympics. 

I am also planning lots more days of clamming. Thus far, my son and I have caught a mighty total of three and a half clams. Not really a good return on our $18 investment for my license. 

As to our summer plans, here is my thinking. We have roughly a week's vacation each summer. Last summer it was Las Vegas. Well, this summer, Wendi won't be able take any time off so it'll just be X-Man and me. Now, a couple weeks ago, I got my enhanced driver's license so Canada is now an option. Hilton has properties up in Whistler and I was wondering if you wanted to go up there for three or four days in August. I'd take care of lodging and you'd take care of transportation. 

You interested enough for me to inquire further? In Vegas, we got two rooms connected by a living room for four nights. Wendi's friend V and husband were supposed to take the other room and Xander was to have the living room hide-a-bed but the W’s had to cancel last minute. Xander was quite pleased to have his own room.

So, what do you think? I realize this is a bit last minute. Wendi is usually in charge of organizing the Family Summer Vacation but since she ain't goin'; her interest is minimal. I plan to throw myself on her mercy very soon. 

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the matter. Oh, and also read The Martian. Best book I've read in years.

Adios.

Mr. Brian