[BRINDLEKIN TALES – Book 4: Chapter 5]
Subject: Building Manager Reconciles?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 21, 2021 6:28 PM
Last night I had set my dish basin piled with dishes, cups and utensils, on a surface near one of the windows. And when I picked it up to take it over to the sink, one of the small bowls had suddenly slid off and flew out the window, crashing to the sidewalk with a grand smash. This startled a couple of people lingering nearby, of course. So I poked my head out the window, said, “Sorry, it was an accident, I’ll come right down to clean it up!”
As I stepped out with broom and dustpan in hand, one of the Hohokum smoke shop workers came out and told me I was lucky it didn’t land on anyone. Well, it was a thin, light bowl that would’ve done no harm, except to startle a person, so that was NOT my concern. Which was actually, that I prefer to keep the Hohokum clerks’ noses out of my business. But due to this incident, I was forced to make my presence known, and in a bold fashion at that. I immediately returned hovel after sweeping up the debris, pissed off that I had to draw such attention towards me.
So this morning I got a voicemail from the manager, who asked what’s going on about my dropping something out the window. Here’s the recording:
I called him back immediately, left a message that it was an accident, explained what happened…and won’t occur again. I then thought: “I guess the Hohokum minions ran off to Kevin and blabbed all about it, their lives are that boring!”
Later today, as I stepped out of the restroom, I bumped into Kevin, and we had a very interesting conversation. Turns out that Adisa had hurled stuff out the window of his own apartment, recently (and which I had NO idea about), so he wanted to clear up what happened with MY flying-bowl faux pas. And the Hohokum smoke shop resides directly below Myrtle & Son, so they have had to suffer the danger of objects flung out the window above. How long this has been going on, I have no idea.
Here is that video of our conversation, which I think you’ll find most enlightening. It essentially frees me from whatever false accusations came from Adisa’s (and his mother’s) direction, as well as from Kevin’s strange collaboration WITH them (just 2 minutes long):
On the Deek topic:
Every night’s been cold, and today is especially chilly, yet he hasn’t given me the pups in all that time, so they can be in a warm place, at least overnight. His adolescent stubbornness is causing them harm! Each night I hope he’ll show up for the doggies’ sake, but it has yet to happen! The arc of the moral universe bends long, but its length relative to each situation. It looks like ALL recent difficulties in my life are bending towards my favor…some sooner, some later. The Deek saga is one of those LONG arcs, but I anticipate its resolution very soon. Though not so soon as, say, the Myrtle/Adisa/Manager fiasco, or my surprise conflict with Chronic ISP.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Building Manager Reconciles?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 21, 2021 8:07 PM
> Saw Timothy on the street in Fort Bragg today…he looked a little better than last time.
You just saw him, didn’t talk?
Re: Building Manager Reconciles?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 9:22 AM
> Was driving.
Driving DOES put a crimp in conversational exchange with a pedestrian, except perhaps when imposing upon them a request for directions to a place you can’t find, because maps are so confusing. However, geolocation technology has entirely replaced the main function of sidewalk ambulators, who will probably go extinct as a result.
Personally, I find it rather ANNOYING whenever a motorist interrupts my meditative stroll, to ask where is such-and-such a place. They have absolutely NO interest in who I am, what I stand for, or my life history! I’m just one of those car-less “losers” at their gratis disposal, a convenient, impromptu tour guide. A dying species.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Building Manager Reconciles?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 12:15 PM
> Was able to listen to it. He’s quite forthcoming, even somewhat conciliatory toward you!
I am very PLEASED with our conversation. Justice will be mine on all counts, but my greatest concern is achieving safe harbor for Flaco & Lucky. And, like all challenges that appear insurmountable, faith is my only strength. The key is Deek’s redemption…meaning a newfound awareness of his responsibility to do the right thing. The dogs must NOT be sacrificed to achieve this; that would be an abomination. I believe that Kevin’s talk with me yesterday is also a sign of imminent success regarding the pups.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Building Manager Reconciles? ADDENDUM
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 12:44 PM
But also notice his mask did not cover his mouth and nose at first. And upon pulling it up, he still left his nostrils exposed. Putting ME in danger of contracting the virus by yet another resident, once again. He has also neglected replenishing our shared restroom with paper towels, toilet paper and hand disinfectant, for over three days now. This is in violation of the city’s COVID-19 orders, not to mention the usual rent laws. See for yourself (32 seconds):
Re: [MCN-Announce]- how hard could it be…?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 12:44 PM
> I’m enjoying this conversation! I don’t know who Myrna “Dear” is, but she seems to be a silly twit.
She is indeed. Her fake surname, “Dear,” kind of suggests that.
> Side note–I’m acquainted with most of the handful of black residents here (one guy died just recently),
I hope it wasn’t COVID. Even if not, more than likely his death was brought about by one or another result of racial bias, such as poor health care, unhealthy diet, social stress, etc.
> reducing the population of AMs by about twenty percent!). An interesting phenomenon, not one that is easily discussed, is that most of these individual folks actually prefer living among whites. I know, I know, the implications are disturbing, strange, bewildering, and so forth–but I’ve heard it with my own ears. One guy, who has a white wife, told me in confidence that he quit dating black women a long time ago, that they were just too much damned trouble.
I think SOME of this has to do with fewer crises living in a more affluent neighborhood. And avoiding the additional complications of partnering up with another low-income person who is also stigmatized by social bias. They are but TWO strategies of climbing the economic ladder, albeit a tragic way to go about it. A necessary evil, perhaps.
> As Art Linkletter said, people are funny…
I get the joke! We could throw in a brief clip of Nazi concentration camp victims to be REALLY absurd about it. Seeing as he was a registered Republican, thus most likely antisemitic. One could do a short series of Youtube videos, each prefaced with the same Linkletter clip of him saying “people are funny,” followed by a different clip for each video, of a tragic human event.
– Zeke K-Holmes
P.S.: I’ve been binge watching the old Basil Rathbone/Nigel Bruce Sherlock Holmes series, and enjoying it immensely. They certainly are a helpful distraction from getting too bogged down in worry over the pups and other trying matters.
Subject: Deek & Pups Return!
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 1:04 PM
Here’s a great pic of Deek, captured from today’s video:
He said he’ll be back in a few hours to pick them up, but it would be REALLY nice if he let them stay overnight, at least. The doggies are SO happy to be back hovel! But guess what, something else has arrived to disturb my peace:
ANOTHER bedbug treatment to be scheduled some time next week. This is MUCH sooner than all previous intervals, so now I have to do the whole laundromat thing again, what a waste of several days, both before and after. The shit never stops!
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: And here they are, crashed out…
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 2:38 PM
…after a hearty meal and kind affection shared all around. Group hugs!
Re: [MCN-Discussion]- Pups Return After 4 Days (part 1) [my latest video – 3 mins.]
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 2:42 PM
> Hope they get to stay longer!
He likes to keep me guessing…says he’ll come back the same day, then doesn’t show up till the next, in the afternoon or later, sometimes even letting another day pass. That’s his usual habit; hopefully it will happen this time around, too. It was so funny watching them dash through the open gate and disappear up the stairs in a flash! They were romping up and down the hallway when I returned to my floor; once they saw me they scooted off immediately to the door, scratching on it with eager joy and a few grumbly “woofs.”
Re: And here they are, crashed out…
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 22, 2021 3:03 PM
> Aw. So sweet, happy and secure!
They have the sweetest disposition, it breaks my heart. Always attentive and kind…you could not ask for better company. Heaven is truly a state of mind, as the Buddha so wisely taught.
Subject: Is this Flaco or is this Yoda?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 23, 2021 6:47 PM
Deek returned to collect the pups about an hour ago; it’s now 6:45 PM. Disappointing, that Deek did NOT want me to keep the pups overnight. I told him after four cold nights in a row, they could use a break. But he retorted how it’s been TEN cold nights, and his friends will make fun of him for letting someone else care for his dogs. This is ridiculous, he’s making that up. So I told him I don’t let ANY idiot tell me what to do, or think. They SHOULD have said what a good friend he has in me.
I pointed out that this person may NOT have his or the mutts’ best interest in mind. He may, in fact, have told Deek that, in HOPES of luring him into a tragedy. He could be jealous that he has a friend like me. Strangely enough, he agreed! But that didn’t change his decision to NOT keep the pups out all night again…and it’s even COLDER than the previous five nights.
Anyway, he told me to just enjoy their company whenever he brings them over, and that’s that…and if he doesn’t come back tonight for his devices, he’ll pick them up tomorrow. He DID make a point of thanking me for all my help, then departed, but not till after I spent some brief moments petting the doggies and wishing them all a wonderful evening.
I held back and watched them leave, assuming he’s going his usual route by turning right on Noe and crossing Market Street, in the direction of the Inner Mission. Instead, he turned left UP Noe Street, where I was also headed…to pick up groceries two blocks north. I followed behind by some forty feet, figuring he’s gonna turn left or right up a side street…but no, he kept strolling forward.
When we finally got close to the corner shop, he spotted me, said, “Oh, you’re following me?” The doggies were looking back at me with longing, as he said that.
“Nope, this is where I shop,” I explained and pointed at the corner grog & grocery. “I didn’t expect you to go this way.”
He then turned around to resume shoving the cart forward with pooches in tow. And called back:
“I’m gonna hit you!”
At least, that’s what I thought he said, figuring he meant if I keep following him, he’ll strike me. So I hollered:
“What?”
Again, he said, “I’m gonna hit you!” Or so I thought, so I responded:
“Oh, stop!”
To which he said a bit more boisterously:
“I’m going to HAIGHT Street!”
Glad to realize I misunderstood him, I called back:
“Oh, that’s a nice stroll!” And waved at Flaco & Lucky before entering Morey’s shop.
As I plunked a bag of rolled oats and a small, flat box of frozen chile rellenos on the counter, Morey piped up:
“Those dogs kept looking back at you, because you treat them with love! All you’re trying to do is take care of them for your friend.”
“Yes, that’s right,” I replied. “They were just over my place for a few hours, and I suggested they stay overnight, after being outside for five cold days. But he put up a little fight; he just doesn’t get it. It’s been a painful, slow slog for many months, and still going on.”
“Oh, I know,” he empathized.
“But he IS improving, making all the necessary changes, slowly but surely. So I’ll just keep pluggin’ away.”
I then stashed the two items in my backpack, wished him a lovely evening (we both enjoy cold nights), and departed.
What I like about our brief talk, dear Wattson, is that he obviously understands PERFECTLY what I’m going through. And THAT counts for a lot! I do NOT feel so alone in this any more.
– Zeke K-Holmes
P.S.: Oh, and another good thing that came out of this (besides Morey’s kind remark), is that, when I stepped outside my room with the pups, the building manager came by as we stood at my door 20 feet away. And of course they barked…well just one: Flaco. But gently, a couple of friendly “woofs.” So, as Kevin ascended to the third floor, he gave his own, friendly little “woof” in return. Then, just as I was about to bring the dogs to the main hallway, I heard someone ELSE come up the stairs…so pulled them back a few feet, and waited for him to pass, as well. And guess what: NEITHER PUP BARKED AT ALL!
Re: Is this Flaco or is this Yoda?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 23, 2021 10:30 PM
> That’s the absolute cutest damn picture of Flaco….those totally sentient eyes…
She is a very SPECIAL little doggie, as is her darling brother! That is a pic from today’s “duck jerky” video, where she’s anticipating her next piece of the treat. She has the most wonderful ears. When she’s walking, they’re totally pulled back, flat…like she’s marching off to somewhere important, and she means business. To a dog like her, EVERYthing’s important, so she must pay attention to her surroundings at all times. Lucky, OTOH, loves to tease her from time to time. Which gets on her nerves, but not too often. A superb brother/sister relationship…they really love each other! Did you see that video where Lucky demands she play with him? Incredible! Flaco was hiding in the box, when Lucky jumped off the cot and yanked one of the two sweatshirts I keep in there, right out from under her! That’s when the video starts:
SOMETHING REALLY GOOD HAPPENED TO ME A SHORT WHILE AGO! And to think I had almost decided NOT to wear my spyglasses for a short trip to Rosenberg’s and back…for I would have MISSED OUT on this astounding encounter. The video is ONLY 2 minutes, and the link is below this description, which also appears on that page:
–begin:
This “part 6” video was neither planned nor anticipated…but MOST fortuitous! For I finally had that incredible chance to speak with the ONLY homeless person I know, who is really decent, and also knows Deek. I haven’t seen him in months, so had no idea where I could track him down, but he is the BEST chance I have of someone else speaking to Deek about taking better care of the pups. I didn’t recognize him at first, and he barely gave me enough time to convey how important my message is, that it get back to Deek. It didn’t even hit me until some moments after he scooted away, what an excellent encounter that was! Now, through him, other homeless people of at least SOME worth, will hear that message, too, and, hopefully, encourage Deek to DO THE RIGHT THING. In sum: this is a very good sign that the Fates are indeed on my side, and a tragedy will be averted.
–end
Re: Is this Flaco or is this Yoda?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 23, 2021 10:49 PM
> Pure doggie goodness. Too good for this foul world.
That’s why they are here: they shall breathe new light into this world. First, they’ll become the TRUE heart of The Castro, then the entire city. Where thousands–nay, millions–of people will come to adore and protect them. Deek will be well taken care of, too, though the pups will stay with me. Then, through this extraordinary event, their doggie breath shall spread across the entire planet: an invisible lotus flower that blossoms to expand its petals out to the firmament and beyond. Blessing all that walks the earth, flies above it, dwells beneath it, and all within or on the oceans, too. There shall be born a NEW word to replace “Amen,” and that is:
“Woof!”
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Pups Return After 4 Days (6 videos) [my latest blog entry]
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: Zeke’s Mailing List
Date: April 24, 2021 11:02 AM
Six videos recording one day in my life with Deek and his two darling pooches. There is heartbreak as well as joy, in my struggles to get him to take better care of his dogs, including allowing me to provide them with shelter and safety much more than he presently does.
Pups Return After 4 Days (6 videos)
Re: Is this Flaco or is this Yoda?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 24, 2021 1:29 PM
> Crazy cute!!!!
Lucky is SO kind to her; he realizes very quickly when she’s moody, and does everything he can to let her know she’s loved. Her sad, offended expression when I was dotng on her brother is priceless. But I immediately gave her kisses and hugs, to be sure she doesn’t feel betrayed. Flaco loves to protect me, even from Lucky’s love bites. She’ll jump on my lap to keep him from getting their first. Or she’ll force her way between myself and Lucky, when I’m about to hug him. She’ll even rudely PLOP herself right on top of him, as if that somehow makes him vanish. When I try to kiss him, or extend my hand to pet him, she’ll block me with her face or paw! I literally have to slide her off to get to him. At that point, I decide it’s time again for a group hug.
If Lucky has an old hat or jacket to gnaw on, she’ll start champing on it, too, and in a little while will start growling until he retreats, so she’ll have it all to herself. He never grumbles back; instead is patient and kind, in spite of his obvious sadness that she’s pushed him away…for he is always glad to share. During such sibling bouts, I make a point to play with him, or encourage Flaco to share their common toy. They often nap together, head plunked upon the other’s shoulder or butt. Or a hind leg intrudes itself. But if she’s in a mood, and Lucky decides to plunk himself right beside, she’ll just raise her head, peer at him quickly to surmise the situation, then promptly arise and move to another place on the bedding…or jump to the floor to seclude herself in the box.
> Excellent! Spyglasses: Don’t leave home without them!
I think, more importantly, Wattson, is the extraordinary synchronicity of the incident…which would be somewhat LESS engaging had I not seriously considered leaving the glasses at home. It feels like I’m following some brilliant script, though subconsciously; and the hesitation to wear the spyglasses that one time is a great twist in the plot.
Even had I NOT worn those glasses, though, the timing of my finally bumping into him (the one person I was desperately HOPING to convey my challenge with Deek, but could never track down) was crucial and spectacular! His commending me so boldly is exactly the kind of scripted role one would expect in movies and plays with guardian angels in the mix. They always pop up at the right time. Deus ex machina.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Pups are back!
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 24, 2021 7:04 PM
Deek showed up a half hour ago, told me I can have the mutts for an overnight stay, maybe longer into a second day, because rain and a colder front are due, starting tonight. He said he thought about the cold nights, and thinks it’s a good idea. But of course he did not fully admit that, by demanding “no more crazy stuff like last time, I don’t want to get arrested.” So I told him:
“Well, DON’T talk crazy stuff, like getting rid of Flaco, or selling them, or giving them over to some girlfriend. That scared the shit out of me!”
He quickly said “okay,” and rambled on with more nonsensical blather. I don’t care about that, this is a real BREAKTHROUGH. He can talk all the BS he wants to make him look less guilty, I’m NOT gonna hold it over his head, because THE POOCHES COME FIRST! I’m wondering if Kai, my only homeless ally that I spoke with last night, had a good talk with Deek.
Well, one of my spyglass lenses is suddenly missing, and I can’t find it anywhere in my room. They’re frameless, and for that reason I should’ve bothered to add crazy glue where they join. Around ten years ago I had ordered online a pair of prescription eyeglasses that were frameless…and the lens popped out after just a week! So I left the camera eyewear home and, as a result, I ALREADY MISSED TWO GOLDEN VIDEO OPPORTUNITIES!
One was when I went to Golden Produce health food store on Church Street, where the workers’ mom, a sweet lady from Cambodia, asked if I got my shots yet. Well, I gave here and her son and daughter the entire rant about how I can’t make any appointment anywhere! With that, another sweet old lady (a black woman) said excuse me, but I know a place where you can just walk in: Maxine Hall on Golden Gate Avenue. I was suspicious, but said thank you, I’ll give them a call, and we’ll see…I’m not gonna just march on over there.
So I missed recording all that. Then, of course, my latest Deek encounter was not filmed either. I think I’ll just wear ’em without one lens; they have given me so much EXCELLENT witness to things important in my life! Heck, I’ll even wear’ em without BOTH lenses, if it comes to that! However, I also now have a camera pen. Only problem is it’s too jittery when I walk. And I don’t know how it will work when I bend over to pet the pups. Oh, well, I’ll get it sorted out.
SO GLAD the way has finally been paved towards better communication and care of the pups! Tremendously important.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Pups are back!
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 24, 2021 9:48 PM
> Excellent news, all of it. What color are the lenses in your video glasses? Dark? If so, you could maybe fake it somehow.
The lenses are clear. I contacted the company, to see if I can get the lens replaced, so maybe they’ll take care of that.
> Oh! Let’s hope the lady who tipped you off about where to get a vax was right!! Here’s hoping.
I just looked them up, SUPPOSEDLY have walk-in (no appointment) for seniors only, weekdays. According to their site, they just started doing it today. They’re a “community and homeless” health care center, run by the Federal Gov’t. I can’t imagine myself hangin’ around with vagrants, waiting an hour or more to get my shot. That’s why I stopped going to free meal places years ago: the people you must be around are frightening! Plenty of homophobia, too.
Then there’s Walgreens…I tried a few days ago, but they had nothing available unless I wanted to go to one in Los Angeles. So I just tried again tonight:
You have to sign up with personal info. I did that, because they claim to have an opening at my nearby Walgreens. So I had to go through the first page, to get shot #1, then it took me to the next page to arrange the date for #2…and by the time I got through all that, and made my last click, it said “service down, try again later.” Does that mean my first shot is still scheduled for this Monday at 7:20 PM, or not even that? I don’t think anything was processed, because they would’ve sent me an email to verify at least the first appointment. But now they have my personal information, and I got nothing. I’m thinking about calling Maxine Hall Monday morning, but do I really wanna take two, crowded buses only to linger among the scary?
> SO glad you have the doggies, even if just for a night or so. Though I wish it could be forever.
Yes, me too. I’m wondering now if Flaco has already come down with arthritis, because she’s meeting with some difficulty, jumping on and off my cot. She hesitates and looks warily before making the leap either way. And when she jumps onto the cot, she barely makes it, and has to squirm with her hind legs for that last step. I help with a nudge. Maybe I’ll start carrying her on and off the bed. Before this, she’s always been able to make one simple hop, up or down. Then again, she was sleeping and I woke them up for their meal, so maybe she’s a bit sluggish as a result. Now, I gotta bring up yet one MORE problem to Deek…the the pups should NO LONGER live outside! They never should have been, in the first place. Just one crisis after another, I can’t believe all the horrid shit I’ve been through since late October…and it’s STILL going on!
You’d think I’d have a simpler, calmer life, not being tied down to a job, but my world has ALWAYS been rife with bullshit, no matter what.
– Zeke K-Homes
Subject: I should get my first shot later this week.
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 25, 2021 10:46 AM
Looks like Maxine Hall is the real deal. I was wrong, that they’re in the Tenderloin. I got their block location on Golden Gate Avenue mixed up. They are actually on the edge of the Fillmore District, and just an easy, straightforward (and pleasant) 12-block stroll from the Castro. They are indeed welcoming walk-ins, fortunately limited to folks 65 and older. Otherwise, they’d have a flood of everyone else driving away the elderly…like what’s going on at the Moscone Convention Center. They are open for walk-ins four days a week. I’d like to go there tomorrow, but between the doggies and bedbug treatment preparation, I’ll have to wait till Thursday or Friday. As for Walgreens, check this out:
12 NEWS NOW: Walgreens requires consumer info to see vaccine availability, unlike CVS
https://www.wpri.com/video/12-news-now-walgreens-requires-consumer-info-to-see-vaccine-availability-unlike-cvs/6558315/
IOW they are FORCING people to register for a Walgreens account before they can even find out what vaccine appointments are available, and at which nearest store.
What is going on with the Walgreens online vaccine appointment system?
https://www.9news.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/vaccine/walgreens-online-vaccine-appointment-system/73-debd221f-4532-4c5f-8fa8-8ba371093348
Looks like people who register online are getting their first shots, but can’t schedule the second one, just like what I went through in applying for my vaccination. So even if they have me scheduled for tomorrow, I won’t go there because they may refuse to set up the date for shot #2. This is horrific! And I never got an email to verify my appointment. Fuck ’em. Even if I unsubscribe my account (if that’s even possible), they’ll still keep my personal info.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: I should get my first shot later this week.
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 25, 2021 12:17 PM
> Excellent news. I had zero side effects; hope it’s that way for you, too, though “they” say that side effects are an indicator that your immune system is responding and making antibodies.
I’ve never had any side effects from vaccines, so not worried.
> Sneaky greedy bastards.
Exactly. And I don’t know if they’ll even LET me unsubscribe from my new account with them. Taking advantage of human desperation for profit…can’t get more capitalist than that! More on Deek:
The doggies are still here, lovin’ every minute of their fluffy, warm and friendly sanctuary. When he shows up (hopefully not until tomorrow; it’s quite cold today) I’ll have to impress upon him that they’re not outdoor pups, and continuing to force them to live on the streets will wind up making them ill with arthritis, and in a lot of pain…and he’ll have to put them down. The best thing at this point, is to have them stay with me every night. This has nothing to do with “taking them away” from him, but everything to do with preserving their health and happiness, that HE may have them in his life for a long time, and also avoid a tragedy that would make him wish he were dead. I’ll praise him to the heavens for making that personal sacrifice.
I have every confidence he’ll come around.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: I should get my first shot later this week.
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 25, 2021 1:43 PM
> Hope so. For everybody’s sake, but mainly the beautiful, lovable, sweet innocent love-bugs.
Like a fairy tale or a myth: the knight wants to rescue the princess from the clutches of a wicked dragon. But slaying it will only serve to destroy the princess, as well. The ONLY victory possible, is to find some way to befriend the dragon, and liberate it, too. Not by clever machinations, but through a sincere will that BOTH be redeemed. IOW:
The pups can NOT be saved without ALSO uplifting Deek in the process. And he has already made a big step in that direction, by admitting I’m right about giving them a break from a 4-day string of cold, damp nights. And this victory, I believe, will be April’s miracle.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Lens replacement?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: Mingsung Camera Glasses Seller
Date: April 26, 2021 9:17 AM
> Zeke, we can send you a new pair, you don’t need to return the one you have. please send me your address information. Thank you.
Cool, thanks. I’m gonna apply a little superglue to the top of the lenses, this time. I’ve gotten so many excellent videos already, with the camera glasses, they make smartphones look clunky.
Re: Lens replacement?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 26, 2021 11:51 AM
> Yay!!!
Those spyglasses have quickly become an indispensible tool for sharing great insights with the world. Not to mention joy and heartbreak. Meanwhile:
Deek still hasn’t returned, thus the doggies have had TWO lovely overnight stays in my sanctuary so far. But Lucky threw up a lot late last night (around 3:30 AM): his whole evening meal came up, followed by a very viscous, yellow matter that was so sticky, sometimes he was forced to swallow it back down. No lumps of debris, just the fluid. Nor was there any sort of stink.
He seemed otherwise in good health, Wattson, showing no discomfort. After a bit of puking, he kept going to one of the windows, so I pulled back the curtain, that he may stand and peer outside. I thought maybe he’s wondering where Deek is.
But after his three brief forays to view the outside world, he parked himself by the door and gazed up at me. “Oh, he needs to relieve himself,” I then realized. So off we went in a wee hour, and they both peed and pooped. It was actually a lovely, quiet stroll. Upon returning hovel, he upchucked some more, but I already had newspaper laid out for easy cleanup. I gave him hugs and pats throughout the ordeal.
Lucky did not return to bed for awhile, indicating he still might heave a tad more…these pups are very fastidious! Flaco was calm throughout the night, no sign of stomach upset at all. So I tossed one of the kid’s sleeping bags onto the floor, which he finally rested upon. And I flung another bag down, so I could curl up beside him. He is now resting pleasantly upon the cot once more, but was definitely NOT hungry this morning. Flaco, however, ate most of her breakfast. I suspect that Lucky has that sensitive-tummy issue common among the smaller canine breeds.
Or he may have swallowed something off the sidewalk that I didn’t catch; a scrap of soft plastic, perhaps, or an undigested bit of beef, a blot of mustard, a crumb of cheese, a fragment of underdone potato.
It’s almost noon, now, but I’m sure Deek will show up before sunset.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Lens replacement?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: Mingsung Camera Glasses Seller
Date: April 26, 2021 2:01 PM
> Well, I hope not…
That he never show up again would make my life a whole lot easier, and the pooches would be MUCH better off. Or so it seems. However, I gotta deal with the dragon at the gate, as that is the reality. But can you imagine how DIFFICULT it would be, should Deek die on the streets, or just disappear, regarding establishing ownership over the dogs? His death, if such occurs, would probably be impossible to prove, when I approach the SPCA for chipping and licenses. Would they even allow me to get them their booster shots and/or health checkups? Things would likely be even MORE exasperating should he just disappear. And what if he perishes outside WITH the pups, and another homeless person claims ownership? Or Flaco and Lucky are absconded by someone ELSE, who has a roof over their heads? Or they’re impounded?
As you know, one of my goals in saving the pups is to turn them into mascots of the Castro. This COULD happen, if my Brindlekin Tales become popular on a local level. Yet that hasn’t panned out so far, but there’s always hope it will. And if it does, dozens of people (at least) would watch over them, making sure that Deek is taking better care of the little angels. He’ll feel the pressure! Local fans of my doggy adventures might even provide him with blankets, food, etc., to see to it that Flaco & Lucky need never be exposed to so much dank, nighttime chills. Some might even provide them with backyards to romp around in, cozy doghouses for sleep time, and much more. Another tactic I just came up with that might work:
Seeing as Deek is so sensitive about what others say of him, I’ll remind him that he’s in the public eye all the time. And that I’ve overheard now and then, people decrying his poor treatment of the dogs, they are considering reporting him to Animal Control, and have the mutts removed and put up for adoption. That it would not only beHOOVE him to demonstrate greater responsibility and love, but in so doing he’ll be showered with praise and support. He’d become a HERO in their eyes. By the same token, should he NOT follow through on doing the right thing, he’ll probably suffer some awful consequences. Including the brindlekin’s own misery and death. I’ll remind him that he told me several months back, that someone approached him to ask: “Don’t you think it’s cruel to force two little dogs to live outside in the cold and rain?” More than likely, though, he’ll deny ever saying that. He always shoots for the easiest cop-outs, like alcoholics who claim to never recall their offenses.
Arranging to shelter the doggies with me most of the time, would ALSO give him hero status. What I’m thinking, is to have him agree to bring the dogs hovel on days or nights whenever the outside temperature dives below 55 degrees. I can easily check the weather report every day, to know ahead of time what to expect that night, and tomorrow. This arrangement, of course, does NOT take into consideration all the OTHER dangers of having the pups live on the streets. But it’s a VERY good, major first step.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Lens replacement?
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 26, 2021 2:57 PM
> Yes. But at least they’d be under your care and protection, 95% of the battle. The ASPCA must have to deal all the time with pets whose homeless owners have died or disappeared. I should think they’d be glad to know that these animals, at least, have a loving guardian, and make you the official new “owner.”
I doubt they’d just take someone’s claim that a homeless dog owner just died. For it’s unlikely it would reach the evening news or other media sources. Therein lies the dilemma, as I’m sure they’re aware of housed people attempting to take a homeless person’s pup off the streets against the owner’s will. Of course, it helps immensely to have all this documented via recent videos…which would at LEAST give them an understanding of what’s been going on.
> That’s a dreadful thought. It’s why I wish (as you do) that he’d let you put your phone number on their collars.
A dreadful thought, indeed. But one must consider the reality, tragic as it is.
> Yes. And it would increase the chances of the doggies being with you if/when Deek meets a bad end.
Community awareness of the pup’s precarious situation, and my direct involvement, would be a tremendous aid…to say the least. Indeed, it may be lifesaving. I feel like Sisyphus pushing a rock named “Insurmountable Odds.” It could all come sliding down at any moment. And I’ve been going through this for MONTHS, day in, day out. Yet the pups are still here. So far.
May the Fates be kind.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Not a peep out of ’em!
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 26, 2021 5:09 PM
Last week I posted a comment to Reddit’s “AskSF” sub, in a thread discussing doing volunteer work to fill the lonely hours. Someone suggested walking dogs for the SPCA, since canines s are such sweet company. Others chimed in “what a great idea!” So MY suggestions went like this:
“If you live in or near the Castro, you might consider befriending a homeless person named Deek, who owns two, lovely little pups. He needs others to encourage him to take better care of them, as he usually forces them to sleep directly on the concrete (not even cardboard padding), and suffer the cold rain and nights without warmth or protection. I am one person, and can only do so much. You might even donate a blanket, doggy sweater, food or whatever, to give these furry angels at LEAST a somewhat better life.”
But no one responded…not a single peep out of anyone of them!
Now, add to the many absurd challenges I’m going through, the inability to get my first vaccine shot, because I must care for the pooches. Can’t bring them with me, as not only may that not be permissible by the clinic, but Deek may show up. When I don’t answer out my window, he rightly assumes I’ll be back shortly. But in THAT case, it may be an hour or more before I return. By which time he could be in an utter state of panic.
Also, how do I deal with the doggies regarding bedbugs, when I have to pretty much pack away all cloth items, and take the pups with me outdoors for at least three hours, on the day of treatment. Doing SOME of the laundry ahead of time would also be necessary, which just adds to the difficulty. Though I COULD leave the pups hovel for that, I won’t be gone for very long. I’d just have to trust that my items won’t be stolen. At any rate, my seven thin throw rugs would have to be stashed in garbage bags until I get around to running them through the driers. Along with the two adult sleeping bags and four kid’s sleeping bags. Also ALL my clothing, including jackets. But what if Deek doesn’t show up before the bug treatment, for me to tell him which day that will happen? Again, he could drop by, and go into a panic within a half hour.
There is also the ongoing threat of a belligerent teenager and his fucked up mother, who are STILL here, though keeping a very low profile. I want to point out at this juncture, that EVERY manager of this building has come up with SOME way to intentionally put me in harm’s path by one or another resident who is mentally deranged. It’s like it’s their form of amusement. Fortunately for me, it’s always backfired in the long run.
So, 20 minutes have passed between the paragraph above, and this one. Deek finally showed up, griping about why the pups’ fur looks so “oily,” etc. I told him that false accusations aren’t gonna get him very far. But I know how he loves to fuck with his friends’ heads, because everyone is wrong except you. But I’m not gonna stand around and listen to his bull crap.
He then said how he knows one tenant in my building who said the dogs ALWAYS bark at him. I know who that is: Loni, a Latino drama queen. At any rate, I reminded Deek that they hardly bark at all any more, that the pandemic made the hallways empty, so they’re not used to seeing anyone else in the building except myself. So it took them longer than usual to adapt.
I have this all on video, thank Artemis, including when I decided at the last moment to tell HIM how he’s in the public eye all the time, and I’ve overheard some people exclaim how poorly he cares for the pups…forcing them to sleep on the concrete, and exposing them to the cold rains and frigid night air. He said “I don’t wanna hear that!” So I retorted, “Well, since you’re so eager to tell me what someone else has said about ME, I’m just returning the favor.”
At any rate, he should be back tonight for his recharged devices; let’s see how things progress. I’m not gonna push for having Flaco & Lucky over more frequently, as I’d prefer he offer that himself. Gives him a sense of control, which is VERY important for immature egos, if you want to move them in a better direction. And I think he’ll follow through. My latest Deek video will be released about an hour from now, and is called “Just More of Deek’s BS.” Watch for it on the announcement list.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Deek’s new hair color…
From: Zeke Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: April 26, 2021 6:11 PM
…matches the doggies’ fur perfectly! I didn’t notice this until only AFTER perusing the video for a great thumbnail image. What do you make of that, Wattson?
ZekeBlog 2.0 