#tiredsalaryman art

[tiredsalaryman]

11/25 (Sat) TS blog #4

Good morning. ☁️

This is Very Tired Salaryman Tim. 🛌

Suffering the consequences of my poor choices. Delicious choices, but poor nonetheless.

Today's rank: 5

A so and so day. I had already mentioned how having (2) peppermint mocha lattes was the highlight of my day last time. The consequence of this was poor sleep. Unexpectedly, my downstairs neighbors decided to play bass guitar until 10PM. I had felt my brain pulsing to the beat and feeling the vibrations through the floor.

Typically, I should be asleep by 5 or 6PM and wake up at 1AM for work. This did not happen and I decided to just skip work for the night with no consequence. If I had gone to work with poor health, things would have been worse all around. I hate the holidays and I hate the weather. I could have one or the other, not both.

Yesterday's gaming endeavor was me trying to work with a buggy UI when trying to play Mabinogi. I saw it on Steam with mostly positive reviews and thought to give it a go. It was not a go. I couldn't click anything after my inventory got flooded by the director's gifts.

Purchased FFXIV Complete Edition for the Endwalker DLC. Going to live my best life now. So I thought. The game started me in A Realm Reborn. 😭

Today's lucky color is purple. I customized my character with this palette. It wasn't an easy conclusion to come to. I'm glad I consulted my friend D while I was playing with the features. Otherwise, I might have had a few regrets.

Data Center: Aether

Home World: Adamantoise

Name: Hani Vee (Sprout)

Race / Clan: Viera / Veena (M)

Nameday / Guardian: 28S 3rd AM / Oschon

Class: Archer (Lv. 9) as of this post

The server keeps ejecting me because of poor wifi, with my bedroom being the farthest from the router. There's nothing I can do about that.

My wish for this game is I want to experience the organic friendship formed from an in-game encounter. The nostalgia of making friends online and not stressing about looking for people IRL to play with. I don't think I'm doing very well.

I regret being an archer a little bit. In theory, I thought it was a good idea to gain some distance from whatever I was attacking. In practice, I don't know if I'm just clumsy but trying to back off while shooting a monster that is coming at me fast is not my idea of a great time.

I'm figuring out this game as I go. I try to think of the dedicated players of this game and how some have been playing for a decade. How?

Please, I just wanted to be a farmer...

[tiredsalaryman]

11/26 (Sun) TS blog #5

Good afternoon. 🌧

This is Tired Salaryman Tim. 🙆‍♂️

Getting to do the things I really want to do. Cleaning, laundry, grocery, cooking, all on a Sunday afternoon.

Today's rank: 6

Today's fortune is likely in consequence of the night I had. I was playing FFXIV when my best friend called me to catch up on shop talk and other things. It lasted for 6 hours according to the log lol. This is quite typical of us, although not as of late.

I mentioned before that my best friend was on a romantic manifestation kick. After being rejected by me, they went in pursuit of one of their peer acquaintances who could have been my twin brother but were also rejected by them. Now they have sworn off romance until they are around 30 so they can focus on their career first. Life is never boring for them, at least.

We spent some time analyzing my fortune and I think we were too hasty in deciding things. They purchased for us a Babbel lifetime subscription which was on my wishlist for a while. The Babbel site is known for its orange theme. But after sleeping on it, maybe it wasn't that. Maybe it was the orange gapp called Wegmans where I did my online grocery shopping.

They urged me to use this time in my life to learn the languages that I wanted since I have so much free time now. I know I will use it, I'm just a little regretful at the consumer pricing although it is a fair amount for a lifetime service. I hope my Italian will get better so I can impress the coffee shop owner down the block. He is an old man whose espresso machine is half my body and thrice my weight. I want to one day be able to say more than just "Buongiorno signore, un cafe, per favore. Grazie."

A little more about this old man. I don't know his name. I only went to his cafe once because I was never on time for him to open shop. He opens his shop later in the day and I am likely sleeping at that hour. It is really only a 5-minute walk.

The shop is decorated with Marylin Monroe paraphernalia. The food display is empty and full of junk. The only people who frequent it are Italian senior citizens and middle-aged relatives or coworkers. There is a backroom full of people just playing cards. You cannot do take out. He does not accept cards or anything fancier than cash. There are only 3 things on the menu:

Cafe - $2.00 Latte - $3.00 Cappuccino - $3.00

You get what you get and it is delicious. I'm starting to regret giving away my espresso machine. I need good coffee if I want to live long and don't become dumb.

Thinking about all this, I need to cook the potatoes. It's unrelated, but I just remembered. I also forgot to buy milk. Ah.

Another thing that was orange was a bento full of leftovers I cooked last week. Caramelized bell peppers with Italian sausages from Gianelli's. I wasn't too impressed with the sausages, but that's likely my fault for getting the Mild spicy instead of Really spicy. I will try to get that next time.

I made blueberry lavender tea for myself and Roommate N. The container of Manuka honey I used was orange. The Republic of Tea and Wedderspoon are the brands for this.

When I videocalled my stepmother, she was telling me about all the goodies she got at the grocery store ie. Chocolates and other snackings. Then she yelled at me to stop touching the knives I was sharpening with my fingers. She was scared for me and her blood pressure went up lol. I said, "Yes ok sorry I am just used to using my fingers to test sharpness." I did have a sheet of paper next to me to test it properly, and I showed it to her.

My stepmother is looking forward to me visiting in January since it is her birthday. And because I missed coming to this year's holiday events at home, I promised to visit them again at the end of next year once I have more days off saved up. I just couldn't do it this year because of my new job. I'm glad my nieces and nephews asked for me. I did miss them, and I felt a little nostalgic at the group photos my stepmother sent me.

In other news, a new photo released by NASA with the James Webb Space Telescope: Sagittarius C (NIRCam)

The star-forming region was revealed about 300 light-years from the Milky Way’s central supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A.

Highlighted in blue, our astronomers are still theorizing the process and cause/effect of these particular protostar gas emissions. This begs the question of whether clustered galaxies like these are likely to form within the center of the Milky Way or in the fringes of its spiral arms? The answer yet revealed will be another step in understanding the origin of our universe.

Article Source: Link

[tiredsalaryman]

11/24 (Fri) TS blog #3

Good morning. 🌨

This is Tired Salaryman Tim. 🏂

The weather where I live is unpredictable sometimes. I wasn't expecting it to start snowing on the way out of work, so I'm glad I dressed warmly.

Today's ranking: 3

Work was a hassle due to the new layout of my workstation. I don't understand why they decided to relocate Quality Assurance to my area, but it's made moving around extremely difficult. 😓

There is this girl I've been paired with at work lately. Her daytime job is a Correction Facility officer. I have some respect for her since she is usually pleasant when talking to me. But if conversation is not directed at me, she is loud. So loud. I don't mind this usually, but the way she talks makes me feel like I'm hearing my 12 yr old nephew. Not only that, but my annoying coworker Grumpy J gets along with her, and usually they're making a riot right next to me where they complain about work and why the managers don't seem to have good ideas. I don't get off on hearing my own voice, but I understand where they're coming from. I wish they'd just be a little less crass about it. 😮‍💨

Also, I'd like to defend that our managers are doing the best they can, and while good ideas aren't implemented right away, they do take suggestions seriously, and things are done about it. 🙆‍♂️

Moving on. I tried making conversation with this girl mentioned. Let's call her M. I've known about her for a while because when she first started working here about two months ago, my roommate T had a crush on her and would tell me what he found out from their conversations. We found out that she loves fairies and that yes, she has a boyfriend. RIP T. 🥀

Using this knowledge, I asked her what kind of fairies she favored. As an artist, writer, and DND player, I've ended up knowing a fair bit on the subject. She responded, "Oh, I don't really have one I like in particular. I like them all."

Usually, when people tell me they love something, they go into depth about it. This one made no mention of light, dark, kitchen, woodland, not even a Pokémon. The conversation died for an hour because I wasn't up for it anymore. I later suggested she play Fae Farm (Switch) since that seemed to be up her ally. She was enthusiastic when I mentioned it being similar to Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing combined. I also found out from that conversation that she was a Minecraft lover. Mm.

Let's see. Girls... One of my managers, S, is usually the one overseeing my area. We have a good relationship. I'm giving her my $700 espresso machine because I need space in my kitchen, and because she likes espresso as well. ☕️

Another coworker called J, but an elder lady, she came up to me to ask if I was the one who was injured awhile back. I don't know why they asked all of a sudden, but I said yes, I had a metal bedframe get dropped on my foot, as well as a fire hydrant on the same foot two weeks later. Clearly, my left foot is an EMT magnet. I don't know how I still have all my limbs after all the work injuries I've fucked myself up with. God must love me. 🙃

An older coworker, transporter, he always asks if I brought my helmet to work. He's referring to my bike helmet because I used to bike to work. I always say no because I get car rides now from T. I've been considering the merit of bringing my helmet to work lately, but I know that's not allowed. No personal helmets are allowed. I just have to gear up on knee pads and be careful when I use my head to leverage stuff above me. Not OSHA approved. 🪖

After my shift, I met up with my favorite girl, C. She's become my fondest friend IRL, and it brightens up my day whenever I see her. Because PDA at work isn't allowed and we don't like fist bumps or waving hello, we have a special dance we do when we greet each other. Everyone who sees this is befuddled, bewildered, bedazzled. 🤨

On the way to deposit my gadgets, I encounter one of the lovely new admins, S. I met her last week and I always have a compliment ready for her beautiful smile. Whenever she does that thing with her face, her whole aura glows. I feel like a snake sunbathing on a warm rock when she gives me her full attention. I'm going to try making more conversation as the days go by. We usually only have a short window of time since I don't stay in the office long to chat. 💙

The last girl worthy of mention is G. We're from the same "ethnicity" and she usually speaks to me in our native language because she finally has someone who understands her. I respect her very much. She is very strong. 🏋‍♀️

The day isn't over yet. The break room was giving out free hotdogs and burgers, and the managers grilled it themselves. Now, if that's not love. Last week, our branch manager made macaroni and cheese for everyone, but only me and C got special dilled pickles he made himself. Why the special treatment? Because we love pickles and it was by special request. I am being completely honest when I say those were the best pickles I've had in my life. They were so spicy... 🥰

Anyway, even after all that. I was still craving. I had been thinking about croissants ever since I woke up. Roommate T is also my coworker. We drove to Starbucks to get our cravings.

T: Vanilla Chai Latte

Me: Pan au chocolat, oatmeal with every topping, and a peppermint mocha latte.

I usually never go for seasonal treats because I prefer drinking just pure espresso, but I've been spoiled ever since I moved here. Peppermint and chocolate in a drink is a delight I never knew I would appreciate.

Today, the drive-thru window voice was very perky. It pleased me to hear such a pleasant tone. Lately, I have been more vocal about complimenting random strangers but especially retail service workers. When we met him at the window, I said that he brightened up my morning after a long night shift. Then he gave me TWO peppermint mochas. One hot and one cold. I love people. 🤩

Guess what? This journal isn't over yet. More things. My former pen pal and now regular online friend D mentioned that they would like to receive the Huion tablet I wanted to give them. Finally, it will be put to use by someone who will use it more than just a small 4k gaming monitor. I haven't been drawing lately because of all my moving and former roommate drama and since I downsized to an even smaller tablet and have a proper laptop now, I have no need for big appliances anymore.

Last fortune things. I will assume the navy was my pants? And I don't know why it mentioned my house plants but I'll be sure to water Cash and Money later. Cash and Money were these plants that were gifted to me awhile ago by another online friend.

Cash: Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)

Money: Green Princess (Philondendron)

TS Radio random song of the day:

I'm not in love, but it's easy to feel fond of everyone who smiles so sweetly ☺️

It makes me feel like they gave a little bit of their spirit to me, and I want to hold it in my hands like a small bird burrowing into my cupped palms for a nap.

[tiredsalaryman]

11/23 (Thurs) TS blog #2

Good morning. 🌦

This is Tired Salaryman Tim. 🙇‍♂️

Today, I am a tree.

Today's ranking: 4

A good turnout from yesterday's poor health. Still, I am dreading having to go to work again tomorrow. Endless vacations seem like a dream, but I know I will become anxious if I do nothing for too long. 😵‍💫

Today's fortune advice is actually connected to yesterday's. My best friend from yesterday read my entry, and we were able to negotiate a new dynamic in our relationship that didn't involve any romance. They accepted that I was more like family to them, and I was more suited to be a mentor and business partner than a young person's significant other. Their mother, whom I also call Mama, supported this and said my retirement will be set once I come to visit them. 👺

Since my best friend is now trying to pursue love in other avenues, old grandpa will be left with too much free time. I anticipated this and have recently purchased a laptop PC for the first time in over 10 years. Finally, I can play games that aren't accessible to MacBook. My old MacBook lasted me 10 years before they told me it was time to retire. Thank you for your service. ⚰️

I have a friend who recommended me Baldur's Gate 3 (PC) and it was a gross initial experience but I am slowly easing into it. Other games I have played recently are Fae Farm (Switch) and My Time At Sandrock (PC.) I am looking forward to the day when I can play these games with other people instead of always grinding solo. 🏃‍♂️

Onto the lucky item/color. Yesterday, I had a chocolate milkshake from this boba shop. I had ordered that and yesterday's meals via Doordash. It set the mood while listening to John Denver on the echo dot. I had it play on radio mode while I also cleaned the kitchen. I was very productive and was able to do my set chores for that day. Today, I will try to do the laundry. It is too much having my bedroom feel like a closet rather than a place of rest. 🛌

TS song of the day:

This song played on a Chainsawman reel passing down my dash. I felt like mourning after sleeping warmly. Today is actually Thanksgiving in USA, and while it is not a holiday I grew up celebrating, I find it conflicting to feel grateful for my peaceful circumstances in these times. I pray families all over the world eventually find relief, and those who grieve are comforted.

[tiredsalaryman]

Dear friends,

I'm tired and don't have the emotional currency to spare.

Good luck,

Tim

PS. Can you buy me some KFC? 🍗

[tiredsalaryman]

11/22 (Wed) TS blog #1

Good morning. 🌞

This is Tired Salaryman Tim.🕴

Welcome to my journal series where I talk about points of the day related to my fortune. Sometimes, I may say beyond that.

Today's ranking: 12

When it comes to love, I seem inexperienced. I have been told before I hold myself in a very practical and rational manner. Because of this, I am also told I can be very cold and intimidating. These are qualities I do not think are so bad. My personality gives me peace and space from others who may think to try funny business. 😑

I think I love people affably and show kindness and respect to everyone at first, then whoever decides to reciprocate will realize I can offer more. There is no big science to it for me. 🤔

My best friend and I were speaking via SNS last night. I am sick with a cold, so my cognition is not very good. I think they were joking? 🤡

For this season, they are in a lovey dovey phase, and it is strange to be on the receiving end sometimes. 🤨

I am uncomfortable being referred to as "baby" or "daddy." I almost said something I would regret when they started calling me pet names. Feelings can be volatile if one does not concentrate but I remembered my fortune advice in time.

I erased my message and made my request to them in a comedic manner instead. "Do I look like I enjoy taking care of infants? Also, I am an old man. Don't call me baby or daddy. Call me grandpa." 👴

I am setting my boundaries as an old man that I do not want to be anyone's father. Ocassionally, I am called in for babysitting services, and that is as much as I am willing to do. 🤷

I said, it is strange to be called daddy anyway. My mother is still alive and my father is deceased. I love them both dearly and I have no desire to be called anything similarly, especially from someone only a few years younger than me. 😩

I have read manhwa and seen media where this can be sexy or like a meme joke, but I do not think it is personally to my taste. I want to vomit a little every time someone thinks I should have paternal responsibility in a relationship. I just want to take care of my friends without the romantic affiliation, thank you. 💔

Moving to the other portion of my fortune. Cleaning the kitchen is my task for today. Even if I am sick, I should be able to do as much as I can. I had moved to a new apartment recently and I use the kitchen a lot. Because of this, it has also become a dumping ground... 💀

There are boxes everywhere, clean dishes drying on the counter and dishwasher, the floors need to be swept and mopped, and miscellaneous items not for the kitchen should be put away. 🗑

I am slowly starting to lose my mind from the disorderly mess. Hopefully, will save myself in time. 🫠

【Credits】

Illustration by Amy Wong @tofu.pants on Instagram.

They offered to illustrate some entries of my blog and I am grateful for their support. We have formed a mutually accountable relationship in that they wish to draw daily and I wish to journal daily.

I am hoping to illustrate my own works as well and recently purchased a graphics tablet to start me on this habit of daily doodles.

I will not promise to be consistent because life just makes me tired sometimes.

TS Radio random song of the day: