This afternoon, two months after Hurricane Ike stomped through Southeast Texas, we finally got a vist from our insurance adjustor to assess the damage to our property. Since the damage was mainly to J's shop, and he's since made the repairs reusing the undamaged materials, we we're not expecting much in terms of reimubursement. We almost didn't file a claim because we didn't believe we'd have enough to make the deductible.

The dude left 2 hours ago, leaving behind a check that will make us $6,500 richer. I realize in the grand scheme of things, that is not that large an amount of money, but J and I have been sitting around dumbfounded. What to do with such a windfall? Go nuts and splurge on takeout? Or pay some bills, whee!

I think the thought of such a settlement has made J a bit heady (or ill?), because he just gave me the greenlight to pay someone else to clean our house. On a regular basis. For an indefinite period of time.

I don't even know what to do with myself. It's like the whole world has gone crazy.

This week, I hate my job. Raising goats on a commune looks more appealing every day. I'd be poor, but goats can be much easier to goad into submission than people.

Hmmm...

I really miss having girlfriends nearby.

Sigh.

Sounds I Love

(Because it's been a while since I've done a list)

• Rain on the window (because it usually means I am cozily snuggled up inside)
• Bacon frying (because it means I will probably get a piece)
• Beer bottles clanking together (because it means I am out chilling somewhere, and I've likely had a drink or two of my own)
• J singing Johnny Cash in the bathtub (just 'cause)
• A nice slow, walking bass line (because it's mellow)
• Soft music in the next room (because it means I'm not alone)
• A coffee pot percolating (because it reminds me of hanging out in my Nanny's kitchen)
• Being out shopping, and hearing someone sing along under their breath to the piped-in music (because it means I'm not the only one)
• The dryer running in the laundry room (because it's homey)
• The opening drums to Foo Fighters "My Hero" (because it's awesome)
• Three-part harmony (because I'm ever a choir nerd)

What sounds do you love?

Who needs some rockin' xylophone?

Major, humongo mega props to The Electric Monk for bringing back from Japan my personal Holy Grail of sweet treats; behold, the Green Tea Kit Kat:


It's fair to say that when I was presented with this delicacy this morning, I squealed with glee. Thanks, C - you rock.