My New Old Job...And Other Random Observations

I thought it was high time that I posted a personal blog...so here goes!

After adapting to becoming a "morning person" again, something necessitated by my current "job", I have found myself becoming quite tan, if not affluent. Working as a parking lot attendant in Wildwood was definitely NOT on my agenda of expectations upon my return to Wildwood - but isn't that how life tends to work sometimes? I will admit, "Life" has thrown me a bit of a proverbial curve ball upon my return from "paradise" (Tahoe). I don't mean to imply that things are dire - just well, unexpected. I don't mind having a shake up now and then in my life...as a rut, cozy or not, is still a rut. But still, the pain of adjustment is usually something to contend with.

As I mentioned previously, I have worked in this capacity back in 1991, 1996, and 1998. I was (obviously) a younger man at these times, and it was a different era(s). There's really not much to the position except directing a vehicle into a designated section for parking. And yes, being sociable and having some form of amiable discourse with patrons cannot hurt, either. I will admit, I am seldom bored with this job though at times it does insult my intelligence. "Oscar" works an adjacent lot to me and by the sheer grace of God, I have had next to nil contact with him. I am not trying to denigrate him, just that I am enjoying my "respite" from his encounters considerably.

I have been trying to utilize my idle time on the job catching up on some neglected reading. Trying to finish the most thought provoking book, "What The Bleep Do We Know" has become a tedious chore as such requires some contemplation and forethought during the perusal. But I assure you, I am making some progress. Good book, by the way.

One nice "fringe benefit" of my job is my resumed daily dialog with good friend Steve Clark. Steve is one of but a handful of friends I have that I can engage in extensive "deep thought" conversations that always satisfy. I never fail to come away from such somewhat refreshed and uplifted as Steve is definitely someone who has his heart in the right place and his priorities most correct. I may not become a wealthy man from working this job, but I will admit that emotionally it is refreshing. There is something to be said for performing gratifying work, The Admiral be damned.

Just prior to beginning my shift, during a brief chat with my friend/manager, I was reminded of what I am missing out on by not experiencing summer in Lake Tahoe. Charla is well acquainted with Tahoe, and affirms what I already know in regards to the unique beauty, splendor, and spirit that pervades there. I must admit, I wonder if I am making the "right" decision remaining in Wildwood at present as opposed to being in Tahoe. I have heard that Tahoe is nothing but unfettered grandeur which reaches its apex in summers...a season I have yet to experience there. Though I know I will be in summer's bosom out in Tahoe next year, I am very tempted to just pack it in and head back there post haste. It could very well happen. We'll see.

I have noticed that Wildwood is suffering from the now deflated real estate bubble as there are "for rent" signs EVERYWHERE. I have never seen such an availability of rentals in this town, and it apparently portends a less than stellar tourist season ahead. Again, we'll see.

And on a final note, I am facing an interesting conundrum of sorts that MySpace has brought me to. After doing a "what the heck" search for a close friend from high school whom I haven't been in any contact with since 1997, I stumbled upon a MySpace page that yielded positive results. I had some very vague inkling of what became of him and where he ended up - but was unsure of anything specific. My discovery of his MySpace page has brought me up to date a bit. Though he hasn't logged into it since February (shortly after its creation), I imagine it would be an ideal way to attempt a rekindling of contact.

But therein lies the rub; should I do so? I am pretty shy and reserved when it comes to such matters - a lot can change in a decade-plus. Do we still have anything in common? How well could we relate, considering that the environment of youth is divergent from that of the adulthood that follows and ensues? Or am I being way too analytical and negating the axiom that heart prevails over the mind in such matters (generally)? I am contemplating an action to undertake and pursue - stay tuned.

On a closing note, I want to offer praise to my friend Paul for taking very good care of Bart and providing me with ample wine to get imbibed upon. Paul is making a positive difference in Bart's life (he's my mentor figure and 93, experiencing a painful recovery from an accident) and for that, I will laud plaudits upon him. And...Happy Birthday Rich!

Now signing off...