WB
For a while now I've lived partially
Friday, January 21, 2022, 13:23

at a home 50 miles from my normal family dwelling. It was re-possessed under rather hostile circumstances and some shady characters. Typically I am all alone and both come and go before daylight and after sundown. I've gotten used to it some but still try to be cautious and non-complacent. I always go armed, even going to the other end of the house or bathroom. I'd be so mad to be trapped in between. However silly, it's what it takes for me to be comfortable.

Every evening I roll up and feed the cats to keep them quiet and occupied. I note their presence and behavior as a tell. I go from room to room in an order noting door locks. I have some spider traps in key places to tell me at a glance if a closet door has been opened. There is only one choke point where there is too much to cover at once. It involves a hallway, bath entry, back door, and stairs. I'm still working on that one. After "clearing" the house with firearm and light I can relax a bit even though I'm relatively secluded and alone.

Each time I go through this exercise I try to mentally prepare for unforeseen circumstances and reality. I'd not want to shoot anyone non-threatening nor get taken by surprise! Early on with a law officer a green haired lady shuffled from one of the room's darkness! Good thing the Cop was experienced and accurately read the situation. It made me realize how untrained I actually was. He bet his life on how well he reands situations.

Even after the situation is fully resolved there will always be a threat of thieves or crack-heads caught by surprise. I have a security video system that I do use too.

In these crazy times you never know. Better to have a cautious mind and be on guard than clueless and a hapless victim.