Sunday, July 26

5:20 a.m. - Today is get-a-way day!  We are heading on another adventure to Tennessee for five days, and I'm comfortable with all of the work and learning we have done to be as prepared as possible for the trip.  Today we are going to stop in Indiana and chop the driving in half, so tomorrow we will arrive in Pigeon Forge.  What I really want is exploration, relaxation, adventure, and fun heading into the fiasco that is going to be the school year.  I expect sports to be cancelled until after Christmas, and that should be announced this week.  The cancellation of sports will then affect the attendance/participation in education.  I really think the number of students that are interested in attending school as it sits now with all the COVID procedures and restrictions will be very low.  In fact, I would say parents will be more interested in their students returning to school than the students.  And honestly, that sucks that parents are relying on school to make sure their students are getting up at a reasonable hour instead of staying up all night and sleeping all day.  I'm beginning to think that return to school is not only more about economics; it's about parent fatigue with their kids.  I'm not stating that to be critical because I feel blessed that I don't have children at home right now (even though I miss my kids more and more as I get older).  Parenting without the regular routine of school would be very challenging.  

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/26) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 325
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 341
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - __
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,437 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - __ positive cases; __ deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in the spirit. 

                                                                     Amen

Saturday, July 25

7:21 a.m. - We took the camper out to Loud Thunder for a couple of nights, and we returned yesterday to catch our breath before heading out to Tennessee tomorrow morning.  Yesterday, I worked on the yard all day long, which included a repair to my tractor.  Something happened with the deck which caused the belt to break, so I had to replace that.  Work continues on the fence in the backyard, which is going to add to the amount of push mowing that I encounter when mowing.  Today, I need to clean the pool, and I need to pack clothes for the trip to Tennessee.  I'm glad we are headed there instead of one of our other options which was Corpus Christi.  Right now there is a hurricane headed there.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/25) 

The south is a mess; it's like NYC was in April.  Doctors are starting to sign petitions to shut down the country and start over with lockdowns.  UGH.  It seems like Rock Island County and Illinois are doing okay.  And if we are doing okay and much of the rest of the country is not, why would we change what we are doing now - which includes not opening schools.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - __
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 325
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 341
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,431 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,437 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Fix light over the microwave - DONE
• Clean the pool- DONE
• Get paperwork done for Cole. - DONE
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Wednesday, July 22

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/22) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 316
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 337
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,355 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,375 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Tuesday, July 21

6:09 a.m. - Carmen and I are going to head out on a bike ride today, and I think we are going to try out new place.  There is a path along the Hennepin Canal near Colona that I think will be a fun spot to try out.  This is the same trail that Amber and I and Deanna rode along earlier in the month when we camped in Geneseo.  Carmen is heading to her own adventure trip to the west coast, so I wanted to visit with her before she left.  After that, I'm going to try to wack the rest of the ditch before rain and thunderstorms move into the area.  

Amber has a friend of hers improving our chain link fence and installing a new section of fencing that fences the pool completely.  I'm not going to enjoy having something else to mow around, but I like the look from the pool area.  Basically, the change will have more security around the pool and also allow a pet fenced area that will keep pets out of the pool.  The installer is taking his time, but I can tell he really is doing a good job.  With the newly installed section, if he fixes the other problem areas, it will be nice. 

4:41 p.m.  - Cole went with Carmen and me on the bike ride.  We had to delay the ride because of rain, and eventually we decided to go for breakfast, which was really good.  When we were done with breakfast, we rode the trail, and it was a nice ride - pavement was good and the scenery was pretty.  After I got home, I ended up finishing the wacking of the weeds in the ditch just before the rains hit.  After that I completed a little task for Amber in the camper.  The weather is looking nice for the next couple of days...I'm thinking camping at Loud Thunder might be on the schedule....chance to try out the new grill hose and do some fishing.  Maybe Chase and/or Cole could come out to visit before we leave.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/21) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 326
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,344 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,355 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Mow the yard. - DONE
• Wack the ditch. DONE
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Monday, July 20

6:06 p.m. - Miss Mitola is going to visit today at 4 p.m.  She and her husband are going to come tour the school, and then we are going to go have something to eat down at Ducky's.  Also today, I think the Harrison girls are going to be visiting, which means I think I'm going to be able to get a needed haircut.  With all that in mind, I'm going to get to the yard as soon as it's dry enough to start mowing.  I think I'll keep the level a little higher since it's going to rain tomorrow, and I'm going to mow again prior to us leaving for camping this weekend.  So it's going to be a busy day, but it will be doable.  I may not get to wacking the ditch, but maybe later this week.  

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/20) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 326
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - __
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,344 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - ____ positive cases; __ deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Mow the yard.
• Wack the ditch.
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Sunday, July 19

5:36 a.m.  - One more day!  It's been a long weekend, even though I expected it to be a long weekend.  Today should feature a couple of games, which is something I normally don't like to do, but at least it's two morning games right away, and then I can have the rest of the day - probably to mow the yard. 

4:50 p.m. - $927 was my pay for umpiring this weekend!  That's more than I would make in a month at FedEx Ground.  Today wasn't bad, even if we had an extra inning game.  This weekend was also good since I was able to spend a lot of time with Cole.  He even came over afterwards today and swam in the pool for awhile.  I think tonight's just going to be a quiet night, and tomorrow will be a mowing day. 

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/19) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 309
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 326
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,321 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,344 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Molly Mitola meeting - 4 p.m.
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Saturday, July 18

5:45 a.m. - Seven games in a row yesterday hurt.  I'm up now because my legs are cramping up.  I drank some water, so hopefully that will help because I didn't get to bed until after midnight last night.  The day yesterday went pretty well; just got myself caught up in a tough situation once when I didn't wait long enough to make the call.  Today's weather is calling for a heat advisory, so I'm very thankful I have only four games today.  

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/18) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 311
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 309
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 326
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,299 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,321 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Molly Mitola meeting - 4 p.m.
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Friday, July 17

6:31 a.m. Yesterday was a long day with six games at the BettPlex, including two 10-u games.  It's been a long time since I worked 10-u, and I don't feel beyond working that level; it's just a different level to work.  Today, I have seven games in a row, which will be a challenge because the temps will be rising.  I have 12-u today, which is fine, but it's also a level that is more grade school age girls.  With that in mind, it's a level above the 10-u girls, but not much.  I worked with Cole, so that was fun, and I work with him again today.  We worked well together yesterday, and the coaches were great to work with - I hope that trend continues today.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/17) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 324
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 311
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 309
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,269 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,299 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Molly Mitola meeting - 4 p.m.
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Thursday, July 16

5:13 a.m. - I was planning on getting up at 5:15 anyway, but I couldn't sleep since about 4 a.m., so I just decided to get up.  It's back to the softball diamond today...sort of.  I'm at the BettPlex, which is a turf facility.  I learned that I have six games today, at least five games tomorrow, four games on Saturday, and two games on Sunday.  So 17 games scheduled at $40 per game - $680?  With temps forecasted to reach 90 degrees this weekend, that turf is going to get very warm. 

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/16) 

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 333
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 324
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 311
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,252 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,269 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Molly Mitola meeting - 4 p.m.
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Wednesday, July 15

5:37 a.m. - I use to think 30 was old; then it wasn't.  And then 40 wasn't old, and then 50 wasn't old, and today I'm 54 with 60 on the horizon.  And I still don't feel "old"!  The weather forecast is for rain today, so I think today is going to be pretty laid back with a potential trip for lunch and some slot play.  

8:11 a.m. - It was a good birthday.  We went to Thunder Bay Grille, then to Rhythm City, then we went home, and I visited my mom and dad.  I finished up the day by going down to a couple of establishments in Andalusia to play some slots and lose some money.  In the process, I talked with a colleague at the school about our current situation.  In the meantime, the community received a draft document of return to school plans, which seems to be having more questions than answers.  Now I'm home watching the news, which is heavy with COVID news stories.  I hope I sleep well tonight for tomorrow's umpiring games.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/15)

The virus is not out of control in much of the south.  Yesterday, Illinois announced increased funding for schools to basically attempt to better insure that students can be taught remotely.  The IHSA issued a statement explaining that return to play for sports will be up to the Illinois Department of Health and the State of Illinois.  These are all signals that we likely will start online for the school year.  Apparently District #300 had a BOE meeting last night, and opening the school for the school year was discussed.  The reality is that opening a school and adhering to all the suggested/recommended social distancing guidelines just isn't doable.  Now, the school might be able to have teachers in the building and conduct online instruction from school, but I just can't see students and staff together as usual.  In other news, there seems to be some positive news about a vaccine, but that vaccine won't really be ready for widespread use until the beginning of next year.  

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 334
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 333
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 324
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,232 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,252 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Tuesday, July 14

8:17 a.m. - I've been crunching numbers, which is scary but also makes me feel more comfortable if I know the scariness.  I got the new numbers from the trailer and GMC inserted and updated my debt and possession sheets.  What would really be helpful is if I had confidence that sports would continue, but I'm not confident of that; I think returning to FedEx Ground is in my future.  I should have a quiet day today.  Amber is working, and I'm running out to look after the Harrison dogs.  I was hoping to pull the trailer out to Loud Thunder today, but Mother Nature appears to not be cooperating.  That's okay; maybe next week.  This weekend is looking like a hot one - great time to be umpiring on turf - ugh.

2:31 - I received word from a friend of mine today that his step-daughter has tested positive for the virus.  I talked with him Saturday and Sunday at the ballpark in Muscatine.  We were outside, and it's not like we were close together or shouting at each other, and our conversations really weren't lengthy, and he didn't demonstrate any visible signs of illness.  I should be okay, but he was tested today, and we won't know the results for 2-10 days.  Geez.  Other than that, the day has gone pretty well.  I spent some time doing some paperwork things, and I paid off a line locator guy to find the gas line in the backyard, so that was good.  I think I may run down to Shivers now and get some ice cream.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/14)

A member of the federal task force tried to paint a better picture of the virus situation than I'm able to agree with.  That scares me.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 311
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 334
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 333
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,217 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,232 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Get credit card from Blackhawk Bank & Trust activated - DONE
• Paint the shed.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Monday, July 13

4:46 a.m.  - Sophie apparently had to go pee early this morning, so she notified me, so I'm up.  Dog is fed, cats are fed, and Sophie and Bella have gone outside to enjoy some quiet early morning darkness.  Yesterday was a challenging day because there is a certain percentage of "softball folks" that make their participation (and their children's) a higher priority in life than I believe is necessary.  For some folks, it's life and death.  And to some extent, I get that, and because I get that, I'm probably a little more tolerant that many other umpires.  I'm extremely competitive when I participate in sports, and I was extremely competitive when I coached.  And early on in my coaching career I was one of those people that was too hard on officials and too hard on players and had an unhealthy perspective.  In short, I was being too much.  While I can understand that, understanding doesn't mean working with it is any less challenging.  Yesterday, I had a partner that's a good guy, and he's been umpiring a long time, but he wouldn't make my "Top Ten" list of umpires.  That's okay because we need people that are willing and able to help.  It was our last game of the day, and we had already had this team, and they and their spectators where "too much".  We had some calls that had to be discussed, one of the coaches was ejected - it was just an ugly situation.  And it's not that I don't have the patience; and it's not that I can't get through it; it's just that those situations, I guess, now just disappoint me.  There isn't a good way out...it's just going to be bad.  Especially now when these girls are getting to finally participate in something and aren't stuck at home, maybe I had the unrealistic hope that people's attitudes had changed.  Well apparently at least for this group of folks, it doesn't matter.  If I didn't need the money, I definitely wouldn't do it.  But we got through it, I made my $320, and I went home.  So I almost have my new uniforms paid off now, and the work this week will help the financial picture out.  In the end, that's the goal...try to do my best, make a little money, and have a little nicer camping adventure in Tennessee.

1:07 p.m. - Today's been a good day...got some stuff done for myself this morning, and then I went to mom and dad's and helped with some small projects there.  Now I'm back home, and I think the rest of the day will be a pool day!

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/13)

Rock Island County positive cases continue to rise faster than before, but the deaths do not seem to be rising, so that's good news.  Also, Illinois hospitalizations don't appear to be surging.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 321
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 311
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 334
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,194 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,217 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Get pool cleaned up for guests today. - DONE
• Wash my umpiring clothes and return to HHR. - DONE 
• Check back with Brent/Kourtney about removing Dodge from insurance.
• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Get credit card from Blackhawk Bank & Trust activated
• Paint the shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans. - DONE
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Sunday, July 12

5:17 a.m. - Yesterday's umpiring took a toll on my legs.  I had a cramp in my right hamstring last night that kept me up.  I got a glass of water and that helped...eventually it went away.  This morning, my legs are tired, so today's game is going to be an effort.  Even with depleted energy for today, I'm still riding the good wave of yesterday.  Yesterday couldn't have gone much better, and I was very blessed to have such a great day.  Getting the Dodge a new home, making two deposits into the checking account, and working four games on the softball diamond made the day eventful.  The day finished with a severe thunderstorm, and my area was spared, and I'm hopeful that other in the area weren't impacted too much.  I was thankful Amber and I weren't in the camper through those 80 mph winds that occurred in some places in the Quad Cities area.  Today's weather looks to be a little cooler; that's welcomed news.  

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/12)

Yesterday, I worked my first youth softball event in a long, long time - well since last summer.  There were virtually NO indications that COVD guidelines were being followed.  Other than bleachers being marked off with tape, it appeared to me that most folks weren't taking any precautions at all, including me.  I didn't see one person wearing a mask; restrooms were open; concession stands were open; other than the bleachers at each diamond, I wouldn't have noticed any precautions.  And we wonder why the virus is spreading rapidly.  It's only a matter of time that the virus surges again in the Midwest; we'll be shut down again; and high school sports will not be occurring this Fall.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 306
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 321
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 311
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,169 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,194  positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Get credit card from Blackhawk Bank & Trust activated
• Paint the shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Get the Dodge to Arrowhead ranch or sold. - DONE
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Saturday, July 11

6:31 a.m. - I'm hoping to sell the Dodge today.  I'm suppose to have a visitor to come see it, and I'm hopeful.  He's been messaging me, and if I've done my Facebook stalking correctly, he's from the Galesburg area, he works at KFC, and he is planning on entering the Marines.  He's said this would be his first vehicle, and he's interested in some type of payment plan.  I would be willing to work with that if he seems trustworthy; I'm hopeful we can work something out.  Later this morning, I'm headed to Muscatine to umpire some softball.  I've got all my equipment loaded up, but starting any season always means hoping to have everything needed.  Thankfully, I'm working local, so there will be plenty of familiar faces to help me get back into the routine.

10:10 a.m. - The Dodge has found a new home.  Young man from Galesburg purchased her...gave me $500 and will send checks of $100 until the balance of $1,000 is paid off.  I'm pleased that it found a new home, and it works out for him that he doesn't have to get a loan and can carry liability insurance on it only.  Now if I can get through umpiring today, it will be a great, great day.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/11)

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 317
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 306
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 321
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,142 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1,169  positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Get credit card from Blackhawk Bank & Trust activated
• Paint the shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Get the Dodge to Arrowhead ranch or sold. - DONE
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Friday, July 10

Just got back from a quick camping excursion to Geneseo Campground.  Both nights we stayed, we had severe thunderstorm threats but just got rain.  Yesterday we rode bikes about 20 miles up and down the Hennepin Canal trail, and then this morning I got up and did a little fishing and caught a couple of handsome catfish, which I threw back.  Even though it was a quick trip, it was fun and I liked the campground.  Now today, I'll be working on the yard and then getting the HHR loaded and ready for softball umpiring tomorrow.

6:38 p.m. - Good day today...mowed the yard, got the HHR loaded, and won a little money on the slot machines down at Rudy's.  That money is going into the checking account, and it's badly needed.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/10)

Ivy League has canceled fall sports; Big Ten has canceled all non-conference games; folks, the chances of us having sports this fall is slim.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - xxx
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 317
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 306
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,107 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - 1142 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Get credit card from Blackhawk Bank & Trust activated
• Paint the shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Get the Dodge to Arrowhead ranch or sold.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Wednesday, July 8

6:41 a.m. -- Brinley and Brooklyn are here, so I may have to make this quick.  Yesterday I did some shopping and checked out Geneseo Campground.  We are heading that way later today and are just staying a couple of nights.  It will be good to get the camper out and try a different place, even if it's for a couple of days.  Another development was the reentry to umpiring.  I am going to start back into working youth games starting this weekend for USSSA.  I registered and ordered shirts and accessories yesterday, which actually totaled to about $400, so now I really need to work.  Maybe if I can work some games, I can avoid having to return to FedEx Ground - I'll bet working in this heat there is grueling.  I can't say I'm excited to returning to youth sports, but I'll get through it, and the pay is good.  I hope the temps cool down before next weekend, as I'll be working at TBK, which is turf, and that must get really hot.  I didn't really exercise yesterday, so I would like to exercise today a little before working to get the trailer all hooked up and ready to go.   

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/8)

Things are getting scary down south....ICU beds are filling to capacity in several areas.  In the meantime, supposedly our superintendent of schools says students will return to the building for the start of the school year. My response - I'll believe it when I see it.  This thing isn't going away anytime soon.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 321
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - __
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,073 positive cases; 30 deaths
• TODAY - ___ positive cases; __ deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Monitor application to Black Hawk State Bank for credit card.
• Paint the shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Get the Dodge to Arrowhead ranch or sold.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

• Possible Campground Sites
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Tuesday, July 7

6:35 a.m. - Amber is working, and I have all the basic yard work tasks completed that I needed to do.  So I think I'm going to head to Geneseo and look around at that campground and see if that would be a good fit for us to explore this week.  I then might take a trip to that RV place in Davenport and see how I can use my gift certificate there.  Then it's back to the homestead and out in the pool since temps will be high again today.  I think this morning I'm going to get a triathlon workout in, and I'm going to try my new OPAD plan - one plate a day.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/7)

Yesterday, I heard a story that this virus starts in the lungs but then gets in the blood stream, which causes a variety of problems that make people very sick and can lead to long term health issues.  If this is really the case, this thing seems more scary than just some virus that can lead to pneumonia.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 304
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 321
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 320
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,061 positive cases; 29 deaths
• TODAY - 1,073 positive cases; 30 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Possible Campground Sites
• Geneseo Campground
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park
• Schedule of visit with Molly Mitola week of July 20th
• Close down accounts at Service Plus, including credit card. DONE
• Go to US Adventure RV - Brady Street - DONE
• connection to the grill gas hose - not done
• gas tank
• water tank
• funnels for both gas and water
• 50 outlet to 30 plug converter
• Monitor application to Black Hawk State Bank for credit card.
• Paint the shed.
• Put dirt around utility square by shed. - DONE
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Get the Dodge to Arrowhead ranch.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Monday, July 6

6:03 a.m. - I think I have a little time with Tucker today, but I also want to work on some weeds and other little yard projects.  That means I need to get some exercising in early this morning in order to get that out of the way.  I'll be exercising later when I help my mom with loading some hay in her barn.  I also hope to take a look at the Dodge to see if I can figure out the vent situation with the dashboard.  I'm also expecting some folks who want to use the pool to cool off.  

10:40 a.m. - It's been a good start to the day.  I did some yard work, which included some much needed roundup spraying of weeds around the grounds.  I'm now on "Tucker watch", but I've accomplished the feet of getting him to nap, which was easier than I thought.  He didn't want to be held, and he was ticked that there wasn't mommy or grandma to wine at, so I just took him into the bed, laid down with him, and in a matter of minutes he was out!  That's my kind of guy!  I also did a little garden work this morning, and it is looking great except for one pepper plant that is struggling.  I do need to purchase some Sevin dust because I've got broccoli worms that are having a delightful time chewing up the leaves.  I will probably go up to the hardware store and do that when Amber gets back from her appointment.  

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/6)

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 336
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 304
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 321
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,033 positive cases; 29 deaths
• TODAY - 1,061 positive cases; 29 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Possible Campground Sites
• Geneseo Campground
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park
• Close down accounts at Service Plus, including credit card.
• Go to US Adventure RV - Brady Street
• connection to the grill gas hose
• gas tank
• water tank
• funnels for both gas and water
• 50 outlet to 30 plug converter
• Monitor application to Black Hawk State Bank for credit card.
• Fix the lock on the toolbox on the GMC.
• Paint the shed.
• Put dirt around utility square by shed. - DONE
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Get the Dodge to Eric.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Sunday, July 5

5:05 a.m. - I woke up and couldn't go back to sleep.  So it's The Farm Report on television and quiet thoughts with myself here on the Chromebook.  Today is going to be another hot summer day, so the pool will likely rule.  I hope to work on weeds this morning.

9:23 p.m. - The wetland weeds are wacked!  That's a big deal.  I started off this morning, and I just decided to do it all, which was a big job.  I was out there about four hours.  The rest of the day was a pool day, and it's the type of weather now that really warms up the pool to the point where it feels too warm by the end of the day.  Tomorrow, I'm going to get up in the morning and put some fresh cold water in.  Also, I ate my first cucumber from the garden today!  It was delicious.  I think there will be more weed work tomorrow, and then I might try to figure out the Dodge blow motor problems.

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/5)

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - 335
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 336
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 304
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  1,018 positive cases; 29 deaths
• TODAY - 1,033 positive cases; 29 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Possible Campground Sites
• Geneseo Campground
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park
• Close down accounts at Service Plus, including credit card.
• Go to US Adventure RV - Brady Street
• connection to the grill gas hose
• gas tank
• water tank
• funnels for both gas and water
• 50 outlet to 30 plug converter
• Monitor application to Black Hawk State Bank for credit card.
• Fix the lock on the toolbox on the GMC.
• Paint the shed.
• Put dirt around utility square by shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Wack the wetland weeds - DONE
• Get the Dodge to Eric.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen

Saturday, July 4 - Happy Independence Day!

We're back!  Actually, we were back yesterday, but we didn't arrive until mid-morning.  After that, it was basically a pool day.  Today, I'm going to mow the backyard because my neighbor Brandon mowed the rest of the yard, which was obviously very kind.  After mowing the yard, it's probably going to be another pool day before we go to Kourtney's for a get-together at 5 p.m.  I think I will also do a quick vacuum of the pool. 

9:12 p.m. - I got the yard mowed, and then it was pretty much a pool and party day.  We swam with a variety of folks until 4 p.m., went and checked in Kenzi's dogs, and then went to Ava's birthday party.  I'm tired now, and would like to go to bed, but there are a variety of fireworks going off in the neighborhood.  

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (7/4)

This is the first edit in a few days since coming back from a camping trip, and I was surprised that positive cases are nearing 1,000 in Rock Island County.  That seems to be a faster increase rate compared to last weekend.  Hospitalizations in Illinois appear to be continuing to go down, so that's good.

• Stats
• February 29 was the first reported positive case in Illinois. 
• March 20, there were 585 reported positive cases.
• As of May 29 (3 months), there were 120,260 positive cases and 5,390 deaths.
• As of June 29 (4 months), there were 142, 461 positive cases and 6,902 deaths.

• ILLINOIS PREVIOUS DAY
• hospitalizations - ***
• ILLINOIS YESTERDAY
• hospitalizations - 334
• ILLINOIS TODAY
• hospitalizations - 336
• ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
• YESTERDAY -  996 positive cases; 29 deaths
• TODAY - 1,018 positive cases; 29 deaths

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

Possible Campground Sites

• Geneseo Campground
• Spring Lake Park - Macomb
• Scott County Park
• 
  
• Close down accounts at Service Plus, including credit card.
• Go to US Adventure RV - Brady Street
• connection to the grill gas hose
• gas tank
• water tank
• funnels for both gas and water
• 50 outlet to 30 plug converter
• Apply to Black Hawk State Bank for credit card.
• Fix the lock on the toolbox on the GMC.
• Paint the shed.
• Put dirt around utility square by shed.
• Print off copies of Trailer and GMC loans.
• Continue working on restoring the channel of the ditch.
• Wack the wetland weeds.
• Get the Dodge to Eric.
• Replace seals and gaskets in the pool motor.

Prayer for My Heart

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see thee;
    a humble heart, that I may hear you;
    a heart of love, that I may serve you;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide in you. 

                                                                     Amen