I have so much I want to write about that I am paralyzed with it. So in an effort to dislodge I'm going to blast out micro-blogs on each topic. Hopefully I can expand again later...
My Dad:
Dying, but looking pretty good. Chemo was stopped so that makes you feel better. Visit was emotionally complex, but ultimately good.
My Kids:
Totally awesome to see them. Great to spend so much time just following them around from school to home and such. Good to talk with their teachers. Field trip with Sabrina was one of the best times I've had. I put 2000 miles on the car I borrowed from my in-laws (Thanks Judith and Cindy!)
Vegas:
Still the same. The Bellagio may be my favorite hotel of all time.
The US:
It was actually hard going back. Vegas didn't help as it is an exaggerated version of all things excess in America. I was battered by it somewhat. Everyone I visited with was working harder than before, more stressed, and generally stretched. It was an incredible favor to be able to stay with Carey and Graham while I was there (thanks!).
Wall Street:
I read an article about how fundamentally illegal market manipulation may have collapsed 3 of the 5 big banks in America. The article was posted in Rolling Stone which I found odd. But despite the most glaring and flagrant manipulation no official investigation was underway. Most concerning is that if you looked at who had the most to gain such an act you would see the other 2 banks. There were many suspicious dealing by these 2 leading up to the collapse. I am appalled to now think these crooks will never be held accountable and the money they stole from Americans will never be given back.
NZ History:
I have been reading "The Penguin History of New Zealand" (Penguin is a book publisher here) by Michael King. It is insightful and well written. I am delighted to read about the amazing journey NZ has taken. I am surprised to discover that for at least a generation, NZ did not teach this history which is rich in culture and identity.
NZ Stock Exchange:
I have begun to write letters to the NZX to ask if the scheme above could happen in NZ. I would push them to make sure it is not.
NaNoWrMo:
Yes, it is coming up. But I again don't think it is something I can push for. But I am sure to write some. I will likely work more on Threshold--the projected I started last NaNoWrMo.
The Ex:
While in the US I also had to work on a new agreement with my ex. Such things are always stressful, but we worked really well together. As a result of the compressed schedule we had to spent more time together than we have in probably 10 years. It was weird, but it was also good to demonstrate how much we had both changed and moved on.
Motorbikes, Trains and Automobiles:
We bought a small cheap car to replace our leased car. This will give us more cash back per month. With the motorbike option I can actually commute cheaper than the the train. But NZ weather can be unpredictable so I keep a 10-trip pass handy for the worst of days. Overall though, the new set up looks good. Amy drives the car to work and I take the bike/train. Gabe goes to good kiwi gal's house after school 3 days a week.
US Shopping:
I did take advantage of US shopping to get a few goods. Mostly bulk Ibuprofen and Asprin. But I did stop at a western outfitter and pick up stuff you truly can not get in NZ... I got new boots with silver tips, several western shirts, and new jeans.
Work:
Busy as, but doing well.
Kiwi Spring:
Cold as, bro.
Party I want to have:
I want to host a Battlestar Galactica party featuring a few episodes, a BBQ, and some play of the BSG board game. Not sure I will... but I think of it fondly.
