What a crazy couple of weeks it has been! Knives, frozen chicken, stitiches, lost cats, storms, snow (that was more annoying than eventful), and now, today, my final observation.
Let's talk about the first couple of items. Yes. It is true. I managed five stitches on my left thumb on March 2nd. You see, Giada has this really great balsamic chicken recipe that is pretty simple to make and quite tasty. I wanted to treat myself to the delicacy (if chicken can even be called a delicacy - lol). Apparently, however, it had to be marinated for at least two hours, and it was still frozen. I figured I would use my extra sharp Henckle knife to filet it and then drop it in some warm water to defrost quickly, marniate it, and enjoy a home cooked meal in no time. Well, I fileted something alright, but it wasn't the chicken. The knife slipped and caught my thumb. Interesting feeling though. It didn't feel like a cut, but more like I whacked my thumb with a hammer, which I have also done before. With blood leaking everywhere, I wrapped it in a few paper towels, grabbed the rest of the roll and a plastic bag, blew out a candle, and drove myself to the ER. Luckily, it was empty and I was in and out in less than an hour. I know that not everyone may want to see pictures of stitches, but if you do, click here. It looks like it is healing pretty well, and supposedly, I am to have the stitches removed tomorrow. That is the first time in 32 years that I have needed them for an accident. I think I have done pretty well. But, I do some pretty stupid things, so who knows what could happen next. Life always keeps me guessing. For instance, I broke the lawmower from hitting stumps while cutting the grass...twice. Yep, that's another bill. I just hope when I walk it down to the repair shop again in downtown Freehold I don't get heckled again by passer-bys like I did last time.
I had an anxious moment almost two weeks ago, when I thought I lost Hemingway. He has a very strong personality and always greets me at the door, rubs against my shin, curls up with me in bed...it is annoying sometimes. But nonetheless, that is who he is, and he spends most of his time by my side or hanging out in the same room that I am in. About two weeks ago, I came home from work and to my surprise, no Hemingway. I went to the doctor, came home and still no Hemingway. It was now 7:00 at night and I could not find this beloved feline. Where could he be? I convinced myself he unknowingly got outside, which caused more panic since he has no claws. If he got out, he would be a goner. I began searching the property in the twenty degree weather with my flashlight. Called his name. Checked the horror-movie-like shed in the backyard. I even went to the neighbor's house since he said he had heard, what could only be described as, cat sounds. Nothing. And to boot, there have been strays keeping shelter under my deck. If he connected with them, territorial fights could begin, which would be disastrous.
As time went by, I finally resigned myself to the fact that he must be gone. I looked all over the house. Courtney even lent her assistance. I dragged myself to bed at ten o'clock sad, depressed, bepuzzled, and nervous because I had to tell Casey.
Then, at around ten thirty, I heard a noise. Almost like the sound of someone running a stick down the grate of the heating vent. I know that sound well, because I used to do that as a kid. I had interesting hobbies. I got up to check where the sound had come from and found nothing. Nor did I actually know where the sound came from, which was even scarier because it contributed to additional proof that the house is haunted. (Another story for another time.) Then, as I was lying in my bed, I heard the familiar sound of a cat cleaning himself. I popped up, and there he was, lying in the middle of the floor like all was right with the world. I don't know where he was or where he came from. We searched everywhere earlier in the day and could not find him. Apparently, he is a better hider than I am a seeker. But, he was back. Within ten minutes he was in my face trying to sleep in my spot and I was kicking him off the bed. I am still trying to figure out where he was all that time, and why he didn't bother to come when I called him as he usually does.
Life has been interesting, as usual. Keeps the time moving. I will be leaving for another cruise in a couple weeks. I am excited because I upgraded to first class both ways, so maybe I will actually be able to get some rest on the plane. Pictures of the trip will be posted next month. Well, I better get going. I have my final observation in a couple periods. So stay tuned and as always...Happy Blogging!
-Kurt
