TCC for 2/9/09
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this eighth entry is from his eighth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
June 1st, 2003, Sunday
The wind did carry over from the night, lasted until the end of the afternoon, made for a somewhat chilly day—see your breath. The first thing I did this morning was take the paper cup out into the wind and the waves. Some of the waves were about three feet, and eight and a half feet of canoe does not make for dry paddling. I took the paper cup out and around Sloop Island and then back to the Island to drain the water out of the boat then ate breakfast. After breakfast I took the canoe out again, but soon realized that if I stay out much longer I will swamp the canoe. Now if the water was warmer it would have been fun, but it wasn’t warm and so fun it would not be. Quickly realizing this I returned to the dock, drained out the water and put it away on shore.
With the waves proving to be too much for the paper cup I opted for one of B’s sea kayaks. Personally I prefer a canoe but without a larger one on hand I had to go with a kayak. I paddled out to Gull Rock, but without a skirt I was taking on water so opted to return to the Island for one. After putting on the skirt and attaching it to the kayak I decided to paddle around Green Island. The way out there was much fun and excitement in the rolling waves, much of the South side and all of the West side of Green Island were in the lee of the wind so it made for very calm waters, then I hit the wind again on the North and East side of the Island. The return trip was with the wind which there was plenty of, a very good time paddling.
I would like to paddle the entire lake, preferably in a canoe, but if all I end up having at my disposal is the paper cup I will have to instead use a sea kayak. Have to wait and see.
When I first woke up and got out and about on the Island this morning I saw the Bolton Landing fire and rescue boat was anchored in the lee of the Island, they were doing practice dives. Upon my return from kayaking around Green Island and after pulling the kayak out of the water one of the guys on the boat called over to me:
“Do you have any jumper cables?”
I said I’ll check. There weren’t any on the Island. I told them sorry I had none, but is there anything else I could do? They said no, they have a cell phone and someone is on the way to help. I wished them luck then went about my business slightly bummed I could not help rescue the Rescue boat. Eventually someone came and rescued the Rescue boat with a set of jumper cables. It started up fine and off they went.
Other than that the rest of the day wasn’t too exciting, most of the remainder of the day was spent inside due to the cold high winds. I mostly worked on the Ghetto and things in the main house. The weather this coming week is due to be warm and sunny, I hope so, I would like a change from the cold and the clouds.
End Journal Entry for 6/1/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 6/2/2003.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Sunday, February 8, 2009
TCC for 2/8/09
TCC for 2/8/09
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this seventh entry is from his seventh day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 31st, 2003, Saturday
Not too exciting of a day. I spent most of it working on the Ghetto, I’m about 90% finished with moving in. I expect to move in and be settled completely today. The first half of the day was nice and sunny, at around 2:00 pm it started to become nice and cloudy, by 5:00 pm it started to become nice and rainy—mostly a constant drizzle, by 9:00 pm it became nice and windy from out of the North—finally! The Lake has been mostly glass the entire time I’ve been here, which was nice, but it’s good to change things up for a while. If the wind carries over into tomorrow I plan to take T’s paper cup of a canoe out and see how it handles the wind and waves. I hope it does well or I’ll be taking a cold bath—the Lake is at about 53 degrees Fahrenheit, that’s according to the radio.
I spent part of the night burning pine needles. The pile here is an accumulation of at least two years worth in addition to this past year, I still have a lot of burning to do. Eventually the North wind picked up again which then started to blow smoke through the house so I put a stop to the burning. Since I aired out the mattresses from the Ghetto this morning I decided to start sleeping in the Ghetto from this night forth. I docked the mighty Angler at the South dock for the first time this year, that was a good thing given the high wind out of the North, otherwise I would have had to bother with moving it from the North dock to the South dock. Perhaps this should be chalked up to caretaker’s intuition?
If my memory serves me correctly… Which now that I’ve thought about it… I see that my memory does not serve me correctly—or does it? What I’m trying to figure out is when was my first year as Caretaker, was it ten years ago or nine years ago…? It was nine years ago. My first year was the middle of Summer 1994.
End Journal Entry for 5/31/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 6/1/2003.
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this seventh entry is from his seventh day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 31st, 2003, Saturday
Not too exciting of a day. I spent most of it working on the Ghetto, I’m about 90% finished with moving in. I expect to move in and be settled completely today. The first half of the day was nice and sunny, at around 2:00 pm it started to become nice and cloudy, by 5:00 pm it started to become nice and rainy—mostly a constant drizzle, by 9:00 pm it became nice and windy from out of the North—finally! The Lake has been mostly glass the entire time I’ve been here, which was nice, but it’s good to change things up for a while. If the wind carries over into tomorrow I plan to take T’s paper cup of a canoe out and see how it handles the wind and waves. I hope it does well or I’ll be taking a cold bath—the Lake is at about 53 degrees Fahrenheit, that’s according to the radio.
I spent part of the night burning pine needles. The pile here is an accumulation of at least two years worth in addition to this past year, I still have a lot of burning to do. Eventually the North wind picked up again which then started to blow smoke through the house so I put a stop to the burning. Since I aired out the mattresses from the Ghetto this morning I decided to start sleeping in the Ghetto from this night forth. I docked the mighty Angler at the South dock for the first time this year, that was a good thing given the high wind out of the North, otherwise I would have had to bother with moving it from the North dock to the South dock. Perhaps this should be chalked up to caretaker’s intuition?
If my memory serves me correctly… Which now that I’ve thought about it… I see that my memory does not serve me correctly—or does it? What I’m trying to figure out is when was my first year as Caretaker, was it ten years ago or nine years ago…? It was nine years ago. My first year was the middle of Summer 1994.
End Journal Entry for 5/31/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 6/1/2003.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
TCC for 2/7/09
TCC for 2/7/09
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this sixth entry is from his sixth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 30th, 2003, Friday
(Dear reader, after reading this journal entry I think you will see why it is that the Caretaker’s current story is filtered through a third person narrator. There was some debate about censoring some of this but in the end the decision was to let it go out pretty much as it was originally written, despite the fact that it will probably result in a drop in readership. Apologies to those who might be offended.—Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
The latter half of the day was mostly a bust. The first half was quite a success. Went to the dump and got rid of recyclables and an old carpet. Mowed the lawn. On the way to Glens Falls I stopped at Ron’s Hardware for a rat trap. I’m going to use it to catch the chipmunk or chipmunks that are on the Island getting into the walls of the house. After I catch the chipmunk I’m going to skin it and save the fur. (For what?—Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
After Ron’s, most of the day that followed was a failure. The phone book I’m working from is about four years old and much of the information is out of date. The cobbler is either out of business or has moved. One art store is out of business, the other art store is not much of an art store, a third art store was nowhere to be found. The place I went to for a price on filling propane tanks stopped filling tanks last year. Never found the Chrysler dealer. The one guitar shop had about zero selection. Much of the rest of the list I just didn’t even bother with.
I did find the Japanese restaurant, but had to wait 45 minutes for it to open for the dinner hour. While waiting I walked over to the Health food store—it was closed, I arrived too late. Next to the Health food store is an Internet “café”. It isn’t much of a café and the place was filled with gamers. I spoke to the owner and he told me his rates. The placed smelled disgusting. He offered to kick one of the gamers off so I could check my e-mail but I declined the offer. The place smelled disgusting, did I mention that? Why don’t gamers shower? Also, why do they smell so bad? It’s not like they exert themselves in anyway physically other than to push a few keys, move a mouse, and fill their holes with soda and junk food—usually chips and candy. All they do is sit on their asses all day. They must go for weeks without showering, or weeks without changing their clothes, maybe both?
Now I’ll be honest, I can go a few days without bathing and it doesn’t bother me, that is if I won’t be interacting with people, however there are some people I know of who believe that one shower a day is far too few. But these gamers they seem to have adopted the Victorian ethic towards bathing. Truth be known, they’re probably all good people once you get to know them, but take a damn shower! I’m not one for organized religion, but I do believe that cleanliness is next to Godliness.
From what I saw there was only one female amongst all the gamers, she was a gamer too. I would take the time to get to know her. I didn’t get a chance to see her face distinctly but I would at least happily give her the time of day, and if she was charming enough, I’d ask her to shower and then a date. The guys? Get to know them? What for? They don’t need to know me, what they need is a shower and some sunlight—if not for the color at least the Vitamin D, not to mention it would help to clear up their acne. Well whatever.
Oh, by the way, what it really is, is a computer gaming hall, as for a “café”, there were packaged chips, candy, and soda offered and a cafeteria table, and I think a vending machine. After leaving the “internet café” I went to the library and checked my e-mail for free. I also used my Bolton Landing library card to checkout a book on taxidermy to be used in the skinning of the rodents on the Island. (Again, for what? For the record, the Caretaker never skinned any rodents. –Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
After I finished with the Library it was about time for the Japanese restaurant to open again for dinner. I sat at the sushi bar and had miso, seaweed salad, a large beer and sushi. They also have a hibachi table. It’s main focus is Korean food but also do Japanese which is somewhat interesting because traditionally the Japanese and Chinese hate the Koreans, referred to them as garlic eaters as a putdown. Well, as far as I know, traditionally the Japanese hated everyone and the Chinese intended to rule the world. Anyway, I shall make a point to return to “The Mikado” in Glens Falls. I shall make a point to try Korean food and will certainly have sushi again.
After dinner I did some food shopping then went to see a movie. The movie was pretty ho-hum. If I were to give it a subtitle it would be “Re-stupid”. (If the Caretaker recalls correctly this was the last movie he’s seen in a theater since, and now that he thinks about it he probably hasn’t seen a movie on DVD or similar venue since then either.—Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
Leaving the cinema I realized it would be dark by the time I returned to the Island and brought no flashlight, however I did have matches and I left the lantern outside, so I found it to be no trouble at all.
Overall the day was okay, I just wish I had current information on the location of the stores I needed to go to or at least knew if they were still in business. It was a sunny day today, the first since I’ve been here and I spent much of it running around on the mainland on a wild goose chase.
After filling my 1978 Plymouth Volare an older gentleman asked me about my car and then shared with me: “I remember when we bought one back in the 70’s, it was a station wagon too, we thought we were so rich, I think we paid $6000 dollars. That slant six, it sure goes a long time.”
I agreed with him about the slant six. I wonder who else will come out of the woodwork regarding the Volare?
End Journal Entry for 5/30/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/31/2003.
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this sixth entry is from his sixth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 30th, 2003, Friday
(Dear reader, after reading this journal entry I think you will see why it is that the Caretaker’s current story is filtered through a third person narrator. There was some debate about censoring some of this but in the end the decision was to let it go out pretty much as it was originally written, despite the fact that it will probably result in a drop in readership. Apologies to those who might be offended.—Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
The latter half of the day was mostly a bust. The first half was quite a success. Went to the dump and got rid of recyclables and an old carpet. Mowed the lawn. On the way to Glens Falls I stopped at Ron’s Hardware for a rat trap. I’m going to use it to catch the chipmunk or chipmunks that are on the Island getting into the walls of the house. After I catch the chipmunk I’m going to skin it and save the fur. (For what?—Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
After Ron’s, most of the day that followed was a failure. The phone book I’m working from is about four years old and much of the information is out of date. The cobbler is either out of business or has moved. One art store is out of business, the other art store is not much of an art store, a third art store was nowhere to be found. The place I went to for a price on filling propane tanks stopped filling tanks last year. Never found the Chrysler dealer. The one guitar shop had about zero selection. Much of the rest of the list I just didn’t even bother with.
I did find the Japanese restaurant, but had to wait 45 minutes for it to open for the dinner hour. While waiting I walked over to the Health food store—it was closed, I arrived too late. Next to the Health food store is an Internet “café”. It isn’t much of a café and the place was filled with gamers. I spoke to the owner and he told me his rates. The placed smelled disgusting. He offered to kick one of the gamers off so I could check my e-mail but I declined the offer. The place smelled disgusting, did I mention that? Why don’t gamers shower? Also, why do they smell so bad? It’s not like they exert themselves in anyway physically other than to push a few keys, move a mouse, and fill their holes with soda and junk food—usually chips and candy. All they do is sit on their asses all day. They must go for weeks without showering, or weeks without changing their clothes, maybe both?
Now I’ll be honest, I can go a few days without bathing and it doesn’t bother me, that is if I won’t be interacting with people, however there are some people I know of who believe that one shower a day is far too few. But these gamers they seem to have adopted the Victorian ethic towards bathing. Truth be known, they’re probably all good people once you get to know them, but take a damn shower! I’m not one for organized religion, but I do believe that cleanliness is next to Godliness.
From what I saw there was only one female amongst all the gamers, she was a gamer too. I would take the time to get to know her. I didn’t get a chance to see her face distinctly but I would at least happily give her the time of day, and if she was charming enough, I’d ask her to shower and then a date. The guys? Get to know them? What for? They don’t need to know me, what they need is a shower and some sunlight—if not for the color at least the Vitamin D, not to mention it would help to clear up their acne. Well whatever.
Oh, by the way, what it really is, is a computer gaming hall, as for a “café”, there were packaged chips, candy, and soda offered and a cafeteria table, and I think a vending machine. After leaving the “internet café” I went to the library and checked my e-mail for free. I also used my Bolton Landing library card to checkout a book on taxidermy to be used in the skinning of the rodents on the Island. (Again, for what? For the record, the Caretaker never skinned any rodents. –Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
After I finished with the Library it was about time for the Japanese restaurant to open again for dinner. I sat at the sushi bar and had miso, seaweed salad, a large beer and sushi. They also have a hibachi table. It’s main focus is Korean food but also do Japanese which is somewhat interesting because traditionally the Japanese and Chinese hate the Koreans, referred to them as garlic eaters as a putdown. Well, as far as I know, traditionally the Japanese hated everyone and the Chinese intended to rule the world. Anyway, I shall make a point to return to “The Mikado” in Glens Falls. I shall make a point to try Korean food and will certainly have sushi again.
After dinner I did some food shopping then went to see a movie. The movie was pretty ho-hum. If I were to give it a subtitle it would be “Re-stupid”. (If the Caretaker recalls correctly this was the last movie he’s seen in a theater since, and now that he thinks about it he probably hasn’t seen a movie on DVD or similar venue since then either.—Caretaker’s note, 2/7/2009)
Leaving the cinema I realized it would be dark by the time I returned to the Island and brought no flashlight, however I did have matches and I left the lantern outside, so I found it to be no trouble at all.
Overall the day was okay, I just wish I had current information on the location of the stores I needed to go to or at least knew if they were still in business. It was a sunny day today, the first since I’ve been here and I spent much of it running around on the mainland on a wild goose chase.
After filling my 1978 Plymouth Volare an older gentleman asked me about my car and then shared with me: “I remember when we bought one back in the 70’s, it was a station wagon too, we thought we were so rich, I think we paid $6000 dollars. That slant six, it sure goes a long time.”
I agreed with him about the slant six. I wonder who else will come out of the woodwork regarding the Volare?
End Journal Entry for 5/30/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/31/2003.
Friday, February 6, 2009
TCC for 2/6/09
TCC for 2/6/09
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this fifth entry is from his fifth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 29th, 2003, Thursday
Much of today was spent in compiling a list of things to be done when I go to the “big city” (i.e. the greater Glens Falls area). Aside from compiling the list I also had to look up in the phone book the location of the various stores I shall have to go to. I did some work in the Ghetto, but still have more to do. Did some work for the Island but not much. Tomorrow I will mow the lawn, go to the dump, go to Glens Falls, etc. etc. It will be a busy day tomorrow.
I went canoeing this evening out around Crown Island and back, was considering also going around Green Island, but due to a lack of time I decided to save it for another day.
Went to town today and got myself a library card and then checked out a book on fishing. I figure it is about time I learned how to do it. At the very least I figure I should be able to troll while I go canoeing—with no electricity, and even with electricity, the Lake can store fish much better than I ever can. Might as well learn to take advantage of it.
Late in the evening, at dusk to be precise, I was on the North patio reading up on how to fish when two ducks, male and female, came towards me on land in a sexual flurry. I sat there quietly and motionless. However, either this drake lacks stamina in comparison to others, or it doesn’t take much to impregnate a duck, or, perhaps he saw me and then became embarrassed and so due to stage fright could not carry on. Either way, after about 10 seconds he dismounted and then sort of stood there in a bit of a daze, eventually he flew off. The female duck eventually waddled around a bit seeming to pay no notice to me and eventually, long after the drake, she too flew off.
I found the event to be amusing.
End Journal Entry for 5/29/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/30/2003.
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this fifth entry is from his fifth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 29th, 2003, Thursday
Much of today was spent in compiling a list of things to be done when I go to the “big city” (i.e. the greater Glens Falls area). Aside from compiling the list I also had to look up in the phone book the location of the various stores I shall have to go to. I did some work in the Ghetto, but still have more to do. Did some work for the Island but not much. Tomorrow I will mow the lawn, go to the dump, go to Glens Falls, etc. etc. It will be a busy day tomorrow.
I went canoeing this evening out around Crown Island and back, was considering also going around Green Island, but due to a lack of time I decided to save it for another day.
Went to town today and got myself a library card and then checked out a book on fishing. I figure it is about time I learned how to do it. At the very least I figure I should be able to troll while I go canoeing—with no electricity, and even with electricity, the Lake can store fish much better than I ever can. Might as well learn to take advantage of it.
Late in the evening, at dusk to be precise, I was on the North patio reading up on how to fish when two ducks, male and female, came towards me on land in a sexual flurry. I sat there quietly and motionless. However, either this drake lacks stamina in comparison to others, or it doesn’t take much to impregnate a duck, or, perhaps he saw me and then became embarrassed and so due to stage fright could not carry on. Either way, after about 10 seconds he dismounted and then sort of stood there in a bit of a daze, eventually he flew off. The female duck eventually waddled around a bit seeming to pay no notice to me and eventually, long after the drake, she too flew off.
I found the event to be amusing.
End Journal Entry for 5/29/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/30/2003.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
TCC for 2/5/09
TCC for 2/5/09
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this fourth entry is from his fourth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 28th, 2003, Wednesday
Much of today was spent working on the shower. I rearranged the “shower curtain rod” (brass tubing) and so now it is much more roomier in there. In the past one couldn’t but help feel as though the shower curtains were trying to entangle you. That is no longer the case. I also arranged a pulley system thus allowing for the convenient means of raising and lowering the sun shower. My shower arrangement is about 98% perfect the remaining 2% shall go unaddressed, I shall just have to accept it how it is.
Although…
When I went into town for supplies to complete the shower and other things, I passed a baby turtle in the water on the North side of the bridge between the mainland and Green Island, it looked as though it was floundering, but perhaps it was alright.
After dinner I went for a paddle down to Three Brother Islands. I went down on the East side and then came back North on the West side then on to the West side of Clay Island, rounded it then went back to the Island. It was perfect glass. It has basically been nothing but glass since I have arrived here.
Eventually I made my way around to doing some work for the Island. Overall I spent most of my time working for myself and some for the Island. Tomorrow I shall finish making all the proper arrangements for myself so there will be no more excuses for not doing work on the Island. Ha! Like that’ll be the case—I can always find excuses for not doing work.
End Journal Entry for 5/28/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/29/2003.
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this fourth entry is from his fourth day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 28th, 2003, Wednesday
Much of today was spent working on the shower. I rearranged the “shower curtain rod” (brass tubing) and so now it is much more roomier in there. In the past one couldn’t but help feel as though the shower curtains were trying to entangle you. That is no longer the case. I also arranged a pulley system thus allowing for the convenient means of raising and lowering the sun shower. My shower arrangement is about 98% perfect the remaining 2% shall go unaddressed, I shall just have to accept it how it is.
Although…
When I went into town for supplies to complete the shower and other things, I passed a baby turtle in the water on the North side of the bridge between the mainland and Green Island, it looked as though it was floundering, but perhaps it was alright.
After dinner I went for a paddle down to Three Brother Islands. I went down on the East side and then came back North on the West side then on to the West side of Clay Island, rounded it then went back to the Island. It was perfect glass. It has basically been nothing but glass since I have arrived here.
Eventually I made my way around to doing some work for the Island. Overall I spent most of my time working for myself and some for the Island. Tomorrow I shall finish making all the proper arrangements for myself so there will be no more excuses for not doing work on the Island. Ha! Like that’ll be the case—I can always find excuses for not doing work.
End Journal Entry for 5/28/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/29/2003.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
TCC for 2/4/09
TCC for 2/4/09
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this third entry is from his third day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 27th, 2003, Tuesday
It was a good day today. I did not do any work for the Island as was intended, but I did accomplish quite a bit for myself. In the morning I baked a loaf of corn bread, the bottom was burned a bit but not enough to make it inedible. Overall it came out pretty good. During the baking I figured out a way to get the oven to go above 325 degrees Fahrenheit—I put a piece of aluminum foil over the top covering the top vents, now the oven gets up to at least 400 degrees. I also realized that I need to rotate the pan 180 degrees to help it bake evenly. All of this new found knowledge went towards the second loaf which I baked earlier tonight, it came out better than the first, but I still have some tinkering to do. I expect that my third loaf will be even better if not perfect.
After breakfast I went for a canoe. There was almost no wind thus the Lake was perfect glass—given such conditions how could I not go? Originally my plan was to just paddle out to Gull Rock, but once I arrived there I saw no reason not to continue on to Log Bay, and so I did. I paddled in between the Perch Islands and then made my way over to the mouth of the stream from Shelving Rock Falls. The area has changed somewhat from when I was last over there some four or five years ago, nothing too drastic—the marshlands area has opened up a bit, more accessible. A fallen pine tree was blocking my way about five to ten feet from the bridge. I explored all the areas I could in hopes of seeing another turtle—no such luck. However, I did get to see and hear a wonderful lot of birds. The numerous songs and calls were almost overwhelming.
As I was paddling out of the marsh area of Log Bay I noted that the only thing Lake George lacks (other than less motor boats) are Loons. Yet just as I was canoeing around the North East side of the Longest of the Perch Islands I believe I saw a Loon. However once it took flight I was not so sure of the fowl’s Loon-acy. Yet tonight I thought I heard the call of a Loon. It has been some five or six years since I saw or heard a Loon so my visual recognition is a bit off, but when you hear one you know you hear one. Yet the call I heard tonight was so faint and brief I’m not completely sure. From past experience here I don’t recall if Loons inhabit this area. I should make a point of visiting the Highpeaks region if for nothing else to hear the Loons. There is something about their call at night both so eerie and haunting, yet so welcoming and comforting. It is a sound to me that makes me feel as though all is right in the woods. (Chances are there will come a time when the sound of the Loon will no longer be heard in these Adirondack woods, come that time, much will be wrong in not just the woods but the world in general. –Caretaker’s note 2/4/09)
The rest of the day was spent cleaning out the Ghetto and moving my belongings inside. For the past two nights I have been sleeping in the Living room in front of the fireplace—a fire going of course. I hope to air out the mattresses from the Ghetto tomorrow, if so I shall begin sleeping there. In the meantime I plan to organize my belongings in there and arrange my shower properly. Where I have my shower hanging currently is tolerable, but it can be improved. I shall make the final adjustments tomorrow—hopefully it will be the best it can be by tomorrow.
I will try to begin work for the Island tomorrow, but if not, well, there is always the next day.
On a lighter note: I found a water/air rocket, the kind you fill half with water and then pump with air and then launch. Well I found it in storage while packing up for the Island and thought it would be amusing to have here, if not for me for the children here. Well I unpacked it and thought I should give it a try. I filled it with water, pumped it with air and then launched it. Upon takeoff it immediately arced to the right, landed on the rood and broke off the fine I re-glued years ago. The rocket is still there on the roof, perhaps it will come down someday—if not it can always serve as a topic of curiosity. Anyway, though it was short lived, I found it to be very amusing. Watching it shoot off to the side like that and then crash on the roof gave me a good laugh. Oh well.
Mental note to self: If you see something on the Island that you know you will need at a later date put it somewhere conspicuous. Twice today I was looking for something I needed and had seen the other day, but at the time I needed these items they were nowhere to be found, not until long after the fact did I find these items again. Perhaps the Ghosts of the Island are conspiring against me, but why they should covet such things as the dust pan and the watering can is beyond me. Perhaps it is not the Ghosts and instead Island mind-rot as already begun to set in.
End Journal Entry for 5/27/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/28/2003
Posting of the Caretaker’s Journal entries from 2003 began on the 2nd of February 2009, if you’ve missed the earlier posts click on “TCC for Feb 02” on the left in the “Blog Archive” and begin reading from there.
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this third entry is from his third day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 27th, 2003, Tuesday
It was a good day today. I did not do any work for the Island as was intended, but I did accomplish quite a bit for myself. In the morning I baked a loaf of corn bread, the bottom was burned a bit but not enough to make it inedible. Overall it came out pretty good. During the baking I figured out a way to get the oven to go above 325 degrees Fahrenheit—I put a piece of aluminum foil over the top covering the top vents, now the oven gets up to at least 400 degrees. I also realized that I need to rotate the pan 180 degrees to help it bake evenly. All of this new found knowledge went towards the second loaf which I baked earlier tonight, it came out better than the first, but I still have some tinkering to do. I expect that my third loaf will be even better if not perfect.
After breakfast I went for a canoe. There was almost no wind thus the Lake was perfect glass—given such conditions how could I not go? Originally my plan was to just paddle out to Gull Rock, but once I arrived there I saw no reason not to continue on to Log Bay, and so I did. I paddled in between the Perch Islands and then made my way over to the mouth of the stream from Shelving Rock Falls. The area has changed somewhat from when I was last over there some four or five years ago, nothing too drastic—the marshlands area has opened up a bit, more accessible. A fallen pine tree was blocking my way about five to ten feet from the bridge. I explored all the areas I could in hopes of seeing another turtle—no such luck. However, I did get to see and hear a wonderful lot of birds. The numerous songs and calls were almost overwhelming.
As I was paddling out of the marsh area of Log Bay I noted that the only thing Lake George lacks (other than less motor boats) are Loons. Yet just as I was canoeing around the North East side of the Longest of the Perch Islands I believe I saw a Loon. However once it took flight I was not so sure of the fowl’s Loon-acy. Yet tonight I thought I heard the call of a Loon. It has been some five or six years since I saw or heard a Loon so my visual recognition is a bit off, but when you hear one you know you hear one. Yet the call I heard tonight was so faint and brief I’m not completely sure. From past experience here I don’t recall if Loons inhabit this area. I should make a point of visiting the Highpeaks region if for nothing else to hear the Loons. There is something about their call at night both so eerie and haunting, yet so welcoming and comforting. It is a sound to me that makes me feel as though all is right in the woods. (Chances are there will come a time when the sound of the Loon will no longer be heard in these Adirondack woods, come that time, much will be wrong in not just the woods but the world in general. –Caretaker’s note 2/4/09)
The rest of the day was spent cleaning out the Ghetto and moving my belongings inside. For the past two nights I have been sleeping in the Living room in front of the fireplace—a fire going of course. I hope to air out the mattresses from the Ghetto tomorrow, if so I shall begin sleeping there. In the meantime I plan to organize my belongings in there and arrange my shower properly. Where I have my shower hanging currently is tolerable, but it can be improved. I shall make the final adjustments tomorrow—hopefully it will be the best it can be by tomorrow.
I will try to begin work for the Island tomorrow, but if not, well, there is always the next day.
On a lighter note: I found a water/air rocket, the kind you fill half with water and then pump with air and then launch. Well I found it in storage while packing up for the Island and thought it would be amusing to have here, if not for me for the children here. Well I unpacked it and thought I should give it a try. I filled it with water, pumped it with air and then launched it. Upon takeoff it immediately arced to the right, landed on the rood and broke off the fine I re-glued years ago. The rocket is still there on the roof, perhaps it will come down someday—if not it can always serve as a topic of curiosity. Anyway, though it was short lived, I found it to be very amusing. Watching it shoot off to the side like that and then crash on the roof gave me a good laugh. Oh well.
Mental note to self: If you see something on the Island that you know you will need at a later date put it somewhere conspicuous. Twice today I was looking for something I needed and had seen the other day, but at the time I needed these items they were nowhere to be found, not until long after the fact did I find these items again. Perhaps the Ghosts of the Island are conspiring against me, but why they should covet such things as the dust pan and the watering can is beyond me. Perhaps it is not the Ghosts and instead Island mind-rot as already begun to set in.
End Journal Entry for 5/27/2003
Coming tomorrow the Caretaker’s journal entry for 5/28/2003
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
TCC for 2/3/09
TCC for 2/3/09
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so, instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this second entry is from his second day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 26th, 2003, Monday
Today was pretty good, I didn’t do any work for the Island—more of the same from yesterday. Worked more on getting myself situated here. If all goes well I will be able to move into the Ghetto tomorrow, I had to fumigate the place. While in town shopping for supplies at the hardware store R’s son-in-law, G, told me that the lake ice pile up on to the North East corner of the island to over forty feet high. I hope to meet someone with pictures of it.
The ice took out the power line to the island this Winter. There is currently no power and won’t be expecting any for at least another two weeks. The lack of power is not proving to make things too difficult. Gas lantern and gas stove are working nicely. Tomorrow I will try baking corn bread in my camp stove oven. I hope it will work. The lack of refrigeration is not really a problem, it is still rather cool here at this time of year, but if the power is not returned in the next few weeks I am going to have make some changes in my diet. Knowing that there is no power here I purchased a sun shower, it works quite nicely, filling it with water is not exactly convenient, but I’m sure I’ll figure out a way soon.
I went canoeing to Huddle Bay. I first went around the South end of Clay Island, then followed the shore line of the mainland between Hiawatha island down to the Southernmost end of Huddle Bay. Saw various birds, for example those Black birds with the orange feathers near where their wings meet their body. I also caught a glimpse of a muskrat twice. Both glimpses were very brief, maybe it was some other type of swimming varmint. I also lucked out on seeing a rather large snapping turtle. As I was paddling in rather shallow water I turned to my left and there was its shell sticking partially out of the water. From snout to tale it was about 3 feet long. I was able to look at it for a few minutes before it finally got tired of my staring. I was quite impressed with its size. It looked as though if it was given the chance it would be able to bite my hand off at the wrist having no problem fitting my wrist in its mouth. So as can be imagined I was a little cautious with it. I’m sure it’s not likely that it would have tried to come into the canoe, but I certainly didn’t want to provoke it. Given its size I’m sure it could have done quite the damage to my paddle if I tried poking it.
For my return I went around the North side of Hiawatha and Clay islands then returned to the Island.
Tomorrow I shall finish up getting situated here and begin working on the Island.
End journal entry for 5/26/2003
Unfortunately the Caretaker is currently having some trouble uploading photos, not that he took any today, and there really isn't much to report, so, instead the Caretaker has decided to dig out his journal from when he first started working again at the Island. His first stint was during the mid-nineties, then he returned for the Summer of 2003, the text that follows has been edited only for spelling, it is basically a verbatim transcription from his journal (thus unedited except for coherency), this second entry is from his second day back at the Island. It is as follows:
May 26th, 2003, Monday
Today was pretty good, I didn’t do any work for the Island—more of the same from yesterday. Worked more on getting myself situated here. If all goes well I will be able to move into the Ghetto tomorrow, I had to fumigate the place. While in town shopping for supplies at the hardware store R’s son-in-law, G, told me that the lake ice pile up on to the North East corner of the island to over forty feet high. I hope to meet someone with pictures of it.
The ice took out the power line to the island this Winter. There is currently no power and won’t be expecting any for at least another two weeks. The lack of power is not proving to make things too difficult. Gas lantern and gas stove are working nicely. Tomorrow I will try baking corn bread in my camp stove oven. I hope it will work. The lack of refrigeration is not really a problem, it is still rather cool here at this time of year, but if the power is not returned in the next few weeks I am going to have make some changes in my diet. Knowing that there is no power here I purchased a sun shower, it works quite nicely, filling it with water is not exactly convenient, but I’m sure I’ll figure out a way soon.
I went canoeing to Huddle Bay. I first went around the South end of Clay Island, then followed the shore line of the mainland between Hiawatha island down to the Southernmost end of Huddle Bay. Saw various birds, for example those Black birds with the orange feathers near where their wings meet their body. I also caught a glimpse of a muskrat twice. Both glimpses were very brief, maybe it was some other type of swimming varmint. I also lucked out on seeing a rather large snapping turtle. As I was paddling in rather shallow water I turned to my left and there was its shell sticking partially out of the water. From snout to tale it was about 3 feet long. I was able to look at it for a few minutes before it finally got tired of my staring. I was quite impressed with its size. It looked as though if it was given the chance it would be able to bite my hand off at the wrist having no problem fitting my wrist in its mouth. So as can be imagined I was a little cautious with it. I’m sure it’s not likely that it would have tried to come into the canoe, but I certainly didn’t want to provoke it. Given its size I’m sure it could have done quite the damage to my paddle if I tried poking it.
For my return I went around the North side of Hiawatha and Clay islands then returned to the Island.
Tomorrow I shall finish up getting situated here and begin working on the Island.
End journal entry for 5/26/2003
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