Busy Day

Whew, it turned out to be a pretty busy day. Walked Kimball, of course, then after breakfast, I decided it was about time I cleaned the stove top drip pans. I never had an electric stove before, and was hesitant to pull out the coils. However, I went over to the office, asked Jim,and he said there'd be no problem. He was right. I disassembled the items and put the drip pans--two of which were pretty dirty--to soak in the sink. Later, I scrubbed and scoured them, but one is still soiled; I may just go buy a new one.
In the meantime, I put clothes in the wash, then dryer, and while they were doing their thing, a woman came to the door. Good grief, she was from the Human Services Agency, in reference to the skin scam (which still shows up on my account). She came in, we talked, she expressed disbelief at my age, took information, and will notify the police and others. It was actually a pretty interesting experience, but all I really care about is getting my money back.
I didn't get out to town until 2:00 and when I went to park at the museum, there were signs on the trees that said "no parking," even though plenty of cars were parked there. I didn't realize until later the no parking referred to the fourth of July. Parked in municipal parking nearby, anyway.
Walked to the library and sat down to read a bit about Norman Rockwell. Got interested--I didn't realize he had been married three times--and took out his autobiography. On the way back, I just idly stopped into Goodwill, although I knew the jewelry armoire had been sold--BUT...there it was; it had just been moved to another spot.
Now if I was superstitious, or believed in sprites flitting around invisibly, or that Zeus had an eye out for me, I might think it was Meant To Be, or fate, or whatever. But I don't and I don't, I was just happy to see it.
And yes, I bought it for $54.99 plus tax, so sixty bucks. I had to pull up my car behind the store and their guy put it in for me. I was expecting to be able to take out the drawers to get it to the apartment, but unfortunately, they don't come out. Hmm...I'll have to see if Javier would get his hand truck and accept a tenner, say to move it for me.

Same Old, Tame Old

Walked Kimball. Did a bunch of computer stuff. Wrote out my diet regimen for Dr. J. and dropped it off at the office. There I found Doris and we caught up. We haven't gotten together for too long and I want to remedy that.
Went to see Amanda at Cricket and I think I'm going to finally move into the twenty-first century and get a smart phone. They have a promotion going and cutting out the landline and the Tracphone will actually save me money, anyway. I have to decide by tomorrow, though, to get the promotion.
Went to Sprouts for blueberries and fresh tuna. Drove to town and did the museum to library walk. While there, I dropped into Goodwill and saw a very attractive, wooden jewelry armoire for only fifty-five bucks. It was just what I wanted, so after I went to the library, I got the car into position and put the back seat down. I figured that, once one of the workers put it in, I could take out the drawers to lighten it to get into my apartment. Happily, I went back for it and--
--it was gone! Darn it, somebody had snapped it up, I guess. Oh, well, I'm looking on line for something similar, although most seem to be either mundane or ridiculously expensive.
Talked to El, who said the guy was still there installing the flooring in the master. I'll go over on Saturday.

The Usual

Walked Kimball, had breakfast, then walked the museum to library route. At the library, I saw Wye-Wye ("Way-Way"), whom I hadn't in awhile. I asked if her friend/companion/husband, Tim, was around, as I wanted to question him about his assertion that his great-grandmother was Grandma Moses. Found him and we chatted, but I'm beginning to wonder if he just made the whole thing up. According to him--and it was hard to get to this, as he speaks in a somewhat disjointed way--his grandmother was a daughter of Grandma Moses and, in fact, his father was raised by G.M. He also said G.M was born in Germany and came here in 1933--huh? According to the Internet, she was born in upstate New York. I understand she wrote an autobiography called My Life's History; I may send for it or look for it in the library, if I continue being interested.
Went from town to the store for two huge and heavy packages of potting soil; had to bring out my rolling cart to get them from the car. I spent more than an hour continuing my re-potting project and still have some to go. Once I finished, I got my bathing suit on and went to the pool. I swam around a bit and cooled off, but didn't stay long. Showered and washed my hair, then went to WinCo for lettuce, cucumbers, and dressing.
Got a call from the "Cricket" phone rep. Some kind of promotion is going on and I stopped there today to possibly finally switch. Gabrielle D. called about 8:00 to discuss an e-mail we got from Cheryl G., saying she was no longer going to host "Golden Girls of Ventura County" because of personal reasons. Neither of us know her very well, but I may call her or respond to her message.

Car

Without a car, I didn't want to give myself an excuse to skip my walk, so after breakfast, I went a mile or so. It was actually pretty interesting, as I had only driven in these neighborhoods before. Spent another agonizing half hour on the phone with Bank of America. This time, I was assured the eighty-nine dollars and change would be restored to my account and I got a claim number. I won't be satisfied until I actually see the credit, though.
Started in on the patio garden, but spent only about an hour on it, as I ran out of potting soil. Wrote to Mr. K. in Tokyo and walked to the post office, about another mile, I think. When I got back, Linda T. had left a message, asking for Greg's last name. It seems he and she went to the same high school in San Merino (but she much earlier) and so did her sister, who thought she might know him. I doubt it, but called her back.
I finally called my three "phone friends." For some reason, I kept putting this off, although I enjoy--mildly--talking to them, especially Corine, the ninety-year-old. I was please to hear her cancer seems to have been cured.
Suzanne rang my bell when she got home from work at 2:30, so she was ready to take me to Rob's Remedies. I then waited and waited for Rob to call. about the car. I finally called him at 3:00. He had gotten the cell number mixed up, it seems, thinking it was an 805 area code, although I had written it down as 908. All kinds of other annoying stuff went on, but the upshot was, I got my little darlin' back at 5:30.
Went directly to WinCo to replenish my supply of fruit, of which I was completely out. Bought peaches, plums, grapes, blueberries, grapes, and a mango--that should hold me for a few days.

Car Gone

When I opened the door to get the paper, I was charmed to see a cup with six little cherry tomatoes in it. I knew they were from Suzanne and, before I left for my walk at Kimball, I put a note on her door. Walked, then did my usual Sunday thing. As I was working on the crossword puzzle, Suzanne rang my bell and we made arrangements for her to take me to Rob's at 7:00 last night. She did and I left my car there; Suzanne will take me back to get it today after she gets out of work.
Went to Wal-Mart for a trowel--I actually bought two, one a light plastic, the other larger, heavier, and made of steel. Today, since I'll be sans car, I intend to finally get my patio garden in shape--then maybe take a dip in the pool.
Took a drive to the beach, but there were already lots of cars there, so I stopped at the Olivas Adobe House historic site. Ellen and I toured the place years ago before I dreamed of moving here and I'm thinking about volunteering to be a docent there. I'm not sure if I want to or if I want to do the same at Dudley House. Anyway, I walked around, went into rooms, and so on and fell into conversation with a woman who worked there. It turns out she lived in N.J.--Maple Shade; it seems as if everyone in Ventura lived in Jersey at one time or another.
I wanted to get my second mile and a half in, so drove to town and did the usual. I ran into Marie M., who said she was going to the Greek Festival in Camarillo. My friend, Sherry, had asked if I wanted to go, but with the lavender one on Saturday, I'm all festivaled out. Had to wait for the library to open, as I got there a bit before one. Picked up an audio book for the car and walked back.
El called and while we were talking, Nancy called on the cell. Called her back and we had a long chat. She said her son, Richard, had bought a "pontoon boat" and she invited me to come with them in a few weeks to celebrate her birthday. That sounds like great fun and I immediately accepted.

Lavender Festival

The Women's Health Symposium at the Marriott started at 7:30 and I got there a few minutes after. Of course, there were the usual handouts and giveaways which I skipped, as I have enough pens, pins, notepads, and other crapola to open a store. Had coffee and a few thin slices of melon--that took care of breakfast. I ran into Carole F. and sat near her.
The morning speakers, all M.D.s, included a "hospitalist" (youngish woman with messy hair wearing what looked like cowboy boots), who acted as emcee; a breast cancer specialist (very well-groomed and articulate female doc); a cardiologist (the only male, and pretty good); and a urologist (Asian woman whose delivery was okay). Since I don't have any of the maladies spotlighted and since I already know most of what I want to about them, I found it pretty dull. After the speakers formed a panel and answered questions from the audience, there was a break at 10:30. Decided not to stay for the afternoon session, but broke for home. There, I found a message from Linda T., who lives in this complex and is in T.O.P.S. with me. She asked if I'd like to go to the Lavender Festival in Ojai, and that struck me as a good idea. We decided to leave at 1:00, then I changed clothes and drove to Kinball to get my walk in.
Met Linda and we went to Ojai. Now I've been to 16,000 "festivals" in my day and as ever, this was all vendors under tents with twenty-five dollar tee shirts and lots of overpriced items (think soap and lotion) made of lavender. We were looking at some things when I heard, "Hey, Mom!" behind me.
It was Ellen and I was so pleased to see her. She had bought some lavender and said she was going to meet Greg at a little luncheonette down the street. We joined them and had lemonade, good on such a hot day. The four of us sat and chatted for a while, then parted.
Linda and I drove home, which took at least twice as long as usual, as she chose the scenic--or something--route, but that was okay. I intended to drive to town for my usual second walk, but it was almost 5:00 and I decided against it; just went to WinCo for Swai.

Looking Up

Hey, things are looking up. Walked Kimball, then went to T.O.P.S. and had a 2.2 loss, for a current total of 24.2 pounds off. I feel good about that and, next week, I expect to be looking at 25, plus being in the next "decade" (150s), so to speak.
The meeting was as formless as ever and I didn't get home until 10:30 for breakfast. Cheryl brought in an empty pint carton of "ice cream"--only 35 calories a serving. That "serving" is, of course, minuscule--about what a ninety-pound model would eat. Also, the ingredients, which Cheryl had never read, listed three different kinds of sugar. Oh, well. I was able to keep my mouth shut and was proud of that.
Met Ellen for lunch at noon and, having eaten so recently, was perfectly satisfied with my four little Honey Belles and a glass of Chardonnay. We had a good time chatting; El is getting settled in more and more, but still has plenty to do. We parted, she to pick up some things at Lowe's and her mummy to town, to do my mile walk. Went to WinCo after to get salad fixings.
Betty called and we talked a bit. I got a lot of bills paid and other financial stuff taken care of. Now I want to pull together a proposal for Suze of the Ventura Department of Aging. Ventura College will run some classes for seniors in the fall and mine, I hope, will be one of them. When Suze mentioned it, I immediately asked if instructors were paid. She seemed a little taken aback, but assured me they are. I'll be damned if I'll do it on a volunteer basis; it's too much work and I put too much into it.
Showered and washed my hair, and will leave soon for the symposium (women's health) I'm going to today, which starts at 7:30 am. No, I'm not going to blow off Kimball, but will do my thing later today.

The Usual

Walked the walk. After breakfast, I steeled myself to call Bank of America about the lousy skin company charge and was delighted--after a lot of transfers and talk--to be assured the second, seventy-nine dollar charge would be rescinded or whatever you call it. This will take 48 hours, though, and I won't rest easy until I see it reflected on my bank account.
Speaking of money, I did a lot of catching up with various financial stuff. Called Sears to be sure the scheduled repair for the washer had been cancelled and made a few other calls. Also did two large loads of wash. I was happy to see the mesh bags worked fine for the sheets, so they didn't get entangled. Ellen called to ask if I'd pick up some packages left at her old house by the gate. I went over there and got her mail, but they're not packages, they're just mail. She asked if I could meet for lunch today and yes, indeed, best offer I've had a week.
Went to the P.O. to mail some things, including a card and check for my GREAT-grandson, who will be fifteen next week (how did that happen?). Did the usual town mile, museum to library. One of these days, I'll reverse the route, just for variety.
My mood has improved considerably, although for the first time in months, I had trouble sleeping last night. I actually got up and played some computer games, which is probably not a good idea. I hope it was just a one-night stand.

Busy Again

Another helluva busy day. I called Anchor Appliances shortly after I got up, as it was almost 10 am there. I was told they couldn't get somebody out to look at the washer until the 29th--more than a week later! I skipped that, then called Sears. They'd come out, but it's $159 just to have them walk in the door, with parts and labor over there. I decided I might just as well get a new washer and that's what will delivered Monday.
Got to the Ventura Council for Seniors on time--just--and sat through the fairly mundane meeting, then the director of the Alzheimer's Unlimited, or whatever it was, spoke. A young and attractive blonde, she was about the must inane speaker I've ever endured. Her delivery was on the Kindergarten level, with all kinds of gestures and facial expressions and big smiles with big teeth. Idiotic. She also, of course, talked about Alzheimer's prevention, as if there was any. She listed exercise, eating right, socialization, and brain games, exactly what's recommended for good health in any context. It was a freakin' waste of time.
Went home to get some calls about my wedding anniversary, which was yesterday, including from my niece, Joan, whose mother, my sister, was one of my bridesmaid. Called Rob, who was supposed to fix my brakes today, but found he didn't have it scheduled. Instead, he asked if I could leave it on Sunday and he'd work on it on Monday. Okay, I guess.
Had some lunch, then changed into capris to go to my second meeting of the day, for the Senior Strategic Plan. This was just Suze, Hans, Debra, and me, plus Councilwoman Cheryl H., whom I admire more all the time. Anyway, it was decided we hire a (paid, of course) consultant, if we can get the county to cough up the dough.
Went from there the short distance to town, parked, and walked my walk. Stopped at a few places for various and got home about 5:00. Rang Suzanne's bell, explained about the car and she said she'd take me to pick it up on Monday. I'll still have to get it there on Sunday; guess I'll have to ask someone else.

Day

Another "varied and interesting" day, but not necessarily in a good way.
My landline was still dead, so calling those black-hearted rats at AT & T, I used the Tracphone. Looked, and noted it had only 8 minutes on it. Drove to Kimball and did the walk, but on the way home, I kept hearing a kind of subtle bumpy noise. I assumed it was the damn brakes, but hoped it would go away. Went directly to Vons to get phone minutes and saw it was actually my back tire--flat. Called Triple A and happily, the guy came in about 20 minutes. He looked and said there was a nail in it. He put air in, but couldn't say if I could drive it to my doctor's appointment at 9:30 before getting it fixed. Drove to Pep Boys and was told I could make my appointment, so went home and changed and got there on time.
Dr. J. was thrilled at my weight loss, especially in light of my very good blood work. She asked me how I did it and we talked a lot about it. I said I'd drop off a copy of the regimen I devised and follow.
Went from there directly to Pep Boys and was informed after a wait that the tire couldn't be fixed. Therefore, I shelled out $83 for a new one, damnit. That took an age and I called El to say I'd be late. Home, I just quickly changed tops, sliced some hard-boiled eggs into the big salad I had already prepared, and left for Ojai.
Boy, was it hot there. However, Ellen's house was comfortable, although she didn't yet have the AC on. Her place, especially the living room, is shaping up nicely, although there are still a lot of boxes here and there. Two men were putting the new roof on in that 90+ degree heat--wow.
I ate my salad, then El took us on a drive through the tonier parts of Ojai, beautiful with the lush foliage and towering mountains. I left about 3:30 and made my stop at the museum. It was about twenty degrees cooler in Ventura and pretty windy. Walked to the library, sat and read for a while, then walked back.
I had left my phone in my purse in the trunk, got it out and saw I had a text from my tenant, Eileen, to the effect the washer had stopped. I called her and said I'd call Anchor Appliance this morning--damn, just one more thing to handle.

Varied and Interesting

Things are looking up: It turned out to be a varied and interesting day, but with one clinker: My landline is out again.
Walked Kimball, had breakfast, then discovered my damn landline was dead. Called about it, then called Bank of America. I was told I could go to my local bank to get a temporary debit card. Did so and, of course, had to wait a good half hour. It was okay, though, because I got a phone call I enjoyed. Finally was ushered to a desk to talk to G.S., whose title is--get this--"Relationship Manager." Good grief, it sounds as if she's a marriage counselor--stupid.
Anyway, I explained my plight and got a new (temporary) debit card. Will get the perm one in the mail. I was relieved to hear none of my recurring payments have to be modified, as they all come out of my accounts.
After that, I was determined to find Wild Birds Unlimited, a new shop. I had cut a coupon out to the effect that, as a grand opening promotion, they were giving away bird seed and a feeder. Finally found it and it was charming, as were the people in it. The free things were much more substantial than I thought they'd be: a pound of seed and a small, but nice feeder. In the same strip mall, I stopped into a Cricket cell phone place. Talked to the rep and am considering telling both AT & T and Tracfone to go blow and just get one of those. Went from there to town for my extra mile, now simply routine. Stopped at WinCo for fish. In fact, I bought salmon patties, rockfish, and swai. I now have several varieties, most in the freezer. I also found some nice pears, just soft enough, and bought them, too.
Went to the widder dinner. There were only six of us, with one newbie, a woman named Rose, who was widowed only four months ago. I knew Vera's daughter had cut her hand in shop class a week before she graduated high school, but was not aware until last night she had actually amputated her thumb, poor girl. Had a good time with this group, as ever, but skipped my plan to go to the stamp collector meeting after. I will later, to get me old stamps appraised. Several have Hitler's picture on them; presumably, they're from Germany--duh!

Not Neat Day

Saturday was great fun, but Sunday was anything but. At 7:00, as usual, I had finished most of my computer stuff, including putting a Fathers Day tribute on Facebook, and was about to leave for Kimball, when I thought I check my e-mail. I found a message from Bank of America to the effect that my debit card had been charged a total of $176.73 by two skin care companies--WHA-WHA-WHAT!?!
Yes, it had to do with that stupid wrinkle cream, for which I thought I was paying ten bucks and change. Without going into the long, long saga of calling BOA, plus the company, plus all the interminable wait times, plus so on and so forth, I can say I'm not sure if it's resolved or not. I'll pursue it today, also.
Anyway, I walked in a foul mood. Got home and did the Sunday stuff. Had to get out, so I went early to town to get my mile in, arrived at the library at noon, to find it didn't open until 1:00, so went home for lunch.
Called El with my tale of monetary woe and she talked me down--or up--somewhat. Besides, we made a date for me to go over tomorrow, so that's something to look forward to (yeah, yeah, to which to look forward, but that sounds stupid).
Went to Bed Bath & B to try to find a mesh bag to put my sheets in the washer and dryer; by themselves, they seem to tangle up a lot, especially the fitted bottom. Didn't exactly find what I wanted, but got two smaller ones that I hope will serve. Stopped to get veggies and fruit, too, and that was more or less my anything-but-sterling day.

I should probably wait until my anniversary next week (5/21), but why? Here we are; unfortunately, all but three are gone now

Neat Day

Saturday was pretty neat:
After walking Kimball, I went directly to WinCo for veggies and shrimp. Because I eat almost everything fresh, I go to the supermarket a lot, but that's fine by me.
Suzanne rang my bell to say she had called the artist place where we planned to go and their lecturer couldn't make it, so the talk was cancelled. She suggested we go to Camarillo, instead, and she asked me to choose whether to tour the Adolfo (an early settler) house or the small museum. I was fine with either, but chose the museum, as I was at the house a few years ago while I was visiting. Jumped in the shower and dressed--luckily, it wasn't quite as hot as it had been--and we drove the short distance to Camarillo.
This is a thoroughly upscale area and its busy main drag is nicely configured with adobe buildings and so on. We had lunch at a place called "2088" (the street number) and ate outside, which I greatly enjoy. I was able to order off the Happy Hour menu, which meant the Chardonnay was only five bucks and I got a small Caesar salad with it, so I didn't horribly sabotage my diet.
Suzanne and I talked and talked and talked; in fact, we talked all day long and really got to know each other. She is nothing--nothing!--like the nuns I grew up with, let alone the Sisters of Mercy I knew at Holy Spirit. Boy, did we confide in each other and was I surprised, but also gratified and relaxed. She seems not terribly different from infidel me, rather than like my daily communicant twin sister, that's a cinch.
Anyway, we went to a charming little historic museum and learned a lot about Camarillo. Suzanne actually works at St. John's Hospital there and in Oxnard (it was founded and is run by her order) as a counselor. We chatted with the guy there who was the Director of City Planning for Ventura itself. Suzanne also took me to the garden at St. John's, a lovely place, as well as here and there to minor attractions.
We got home about 4:00 and I immediately changed and drove to town so I could add my mile. It was jammed, as ever on a weekend, and I greatly enjoyed it. I sat on a bench to tie my shoe lace and fell in to conversation with two elderly women and a man. I doubt if they were one of the sad homeless, as they had no baggage, but they were a little odd. One of the women kept speculating that I was from English or Scotland "because of your accent" and the other was surprised to hear New Jersey "has an ocean, too." It was fun to talk to them, but off I went back to my car, stopping at Ralph's for swordfish (nobody else carries it around here), then home to my little place.

Various

Walked Kimball at 7:00 and was surprised to find it was already very warm. Went to T.O.P.S.; lost only a bit, but I know I'll do better next time. It was a fun meeting. I told them about me informing Betty that last week when I had to get my car serviced--I "just ran in and got weighed." She heard it as "just ran in and got laid" and everybody roared. I'm a little surprised I enjoy it so much because it's pretty pokey sometimes. Guess I just like the people there.
After a late breakfast, I stopped at the office to find out where Kimble Plumbing is. I think Jim didn't understand what I was looking for (I want to see if they'll lower the charge) and he directed me to "next to Penney's at the mall." Never found the place isn't there, so I wasted time trying to find it, but oh, well. I'm leaning toward just paying the damn thing, rather than asking them to adjust.
I went on into town and did my usual of park at museum, walk to library.
When I got home, I rang Suzanne's bell and we agreed to leave for Camarillo at 11:30, have lunch there, then go to the lecture on art and healing. She invited me in and we had a nice chat. Betty called; she's now tentatively thinking she'll rent her house out before selling it. I called Ellen to ask on progress on unpacking and it's coming right along.

At Ojai

Walked Kimball a little late, as I didn't get up until 7:00. The nurse was there and took my BP: 107/86, and 92%. I assume that's okay.
Had breakfast, tidied up a little, then drove to Ellen's. I was early--I'm always early--and drove around town a bit. Boy, was it hot: 85 at noon and up to 90 later. Happily, El has central air in her new place and it was so-o-o comfortable.
She's gotten a fair amount done, but there are still lots of unopened boxes around, of course. She showed me around and I ooh and aahed over this and that. She's going to sell her very large armoire; it's a nice piece, but just too big for the house. Sebastian seems to have settled in well after, according to El, being traumatized by the ride over.
Greg left for work, then El and I went to lunch. I had brought one of the luscious avocados--this one at the peak of perfection--Don gave me, plus some tangerines and little bottles of Chardonnay. El got a sandwich, then we went back to her house and the tentative plan was, I'd help her unpack. However, I got very sleepy--it must have been the wine--and lay down on her bed and napped for a bit. Got up about 3:30 and we said goodbye; she was going to rest herself.
I came off Route 33 on Main Street, parked at the museum, and walked to the library, as ever. Ran into Sharon there; she's in my T.O.P.S. group and was also in my Acting for Amateurs group. I'll see her this morning at the meeting.
Walked back, then drove to WinCo for tangerines, spinach, and chicken. Had swai and broccoli for dinner. I got some kind of document for El, called her, and I'll just hold it until I see her again.

Happy Hour With Nancy

Walked Kimball. Spent a lot of the day cutting and chopping a multitude of veggies for salad and stir-fry. (I like to have plenty on hand to cook up when needed.) Went to Wal-Mart for this and that, then to WinCo for same. Did a wash, then some stuff on the computer, then showered and got ready for my happy hour with Nancy.
We met at The Cave at 4:00. This is the restaurant attached to The Wine Company and we've been here before. I brought my tangerines, Nancy order her usual cheese platter, and we both had a very pleasant Chardonnay.
We talked and talked and talked, of course; in fact, we were there until 6:15. Nancy and her late husband, Russ, had traveled a lot. They had spent an entire month driving around France, for instance; how you manage that when you work full-time, I don't know.
We finally left, and I got home to find a message from Debra, she of the Ventura Strategic Plan for Seniors. She asked me to give her some possible dates for a meeting next week and said she'd send out an e-mail to the principals. The fact is, I'm heartily sick of the whole damn thing and would like to withdraw completely from that and even from Ventura Council for Seniors. However, I gave her the 20th and 21st--my anniversary--and I guess she'll pull something together.

Tuesday

Walked Kimball and was home before 8:00. After breakfast, I was in the 99-cent store when El called. She asked if I could come over and get some trash. Well, sure, I'm always happy to see her, I don't care what the occasion.
When I got there, a huge "Two Men and a Truck" truck was there with not two, but several, men dismantling Ellen's house. She and Greg were sitting on the patio and I joined them. I stayed a few hours, feeling slightly melancholy at the end of an era--we had some good times in that house, thought sentimental me. However, I got over it pretty fast.
Sebastian was in the downstairs bathroom and made his displeasure known loudly, but El was able to get him in the carrier with no problem. I said goodbye, garbage bags in my backseat, along with a Shark floor clearer--vacuums both carpet and hard floors--El gave me (she has a newer model) and drove off. I'm invited over for lunch tomorrow and am looking forward to that.
Went directly to WinCo for cold chicken and salmon, then to a store for a "pack" of four small bottles of Chardonnay. I'll bring them to El's, so we can go wherever for lunch (or call out) and if it's a favorite vegan one of theirs, their wine is lousy.
Nancy called with unwelcome news: It seems the Rubicon Theatre has only a few seats left for matinees today and Saturday, and they're not in good spots. (I'm going to Camarillo with Suzanne anyway on Saturday, so wouldn't be available.) I called and got the same news, called Nance back and we reluctantly decided to change our plans for today. She suggested we go to happy hour at The Cave today at 4:00, and I agreed. I'm disappointed about "The Other Mozart," but I guess I'll survive.
Left for town about 3:00, parked at the museum, and walked my usual to the library. Stayed awhile reading--I'm getting like all those old people I used to see in the Little Egg library, who presumably had nothing else to do. I don't care, though, as my aim was to add to my walking total and that's what I did.
Walking back to my car, I stopped at the original Ventura post office. It has very high ceilings and the walls above are decorated with wonderful murals of men at work. A plaque says they were painted in 1936-37 by an artist named Gorden Grant, presumably as part of the WPA. They're fabulous:

I used the Shark on the hard flooring and it works great! Can't wait to try it on the carpet and if it's even half as efficient, I'll jettison my old, clunky Hoover.

Ojai

Walked Kimball and for a change, I kept track of the time. I started out at 7:16 and finished at 7:47, so it took me 31 minutes to walk a mile and a half. Not bad, but maybe I can lessen my time somewhat.
Ellen called to ask if I could come to her place at 12:15, so I had an early (for me) lunch and got there then. She had already loaded her car with her large plants in planters, and we did the same with mine. I followed her over to the new house; Greg was already there.
Boy, I like this place. It's "quirky," yes (as El says), but it's a fun and attractive quirky. Of course, the kitchen and both bathrooms are newly done, as is the paint and some of the flooring. It was a gorgeous sunny day and Ojai can get very hot, but the central air made it perfectly comfortable. The house also has ceiling fans in many of the rooms, always a good thing. It's in a nice neighborhood and has some large outdoor spaces, including a kind of extra enclosed patio off the master bedroom.
We did this and that tidying up; of course, there was no furniture there, yet--that will come today. We left about 3:45 and I followed El out as far as Main Street in town. Parked at the museum and walked a bit, but not to the library. At this point, I didn't feel like it, so got home about 4:30. El called to see if Greg could bring over some trash they couldn't fit in their cans--sure, and he did.
Had swai, spinach, and cauliflower for dinner--very tasty.

This And Thatagain

Walked Kimball, natch. After breakfast and my Sunday thing, I went over to WinCo for this and that. Talked to El and found she and Greg were packing.
It occurred to me I'd like to organize the pictures on my PC, as much as possible. Started going through them and--good grief! I had thousands on there, including some I must have just clicked on to view. Others, I don't know how I got them, because they seemingly include virtually all the pictures in Atlantic City High School's 1956 yearbook. I know I had looked up Naomi Steelman, who graduated then, because I did a Sunrise Bay Breeze profile on her and Wayne several years ago. But all the pics on my PC? Weird.
I started organizing them into albums; not many, just "My Family," "Birth Family," "House on Sweetwater," and a few others, but I got so absorbed, after a break for lunch, it was 3:30 before I finished. I just had to get out and I wanted to add to my walk-count, so I drove to town, as usual, parked, and started off to the library. Stayed there reading for a bit, then walked back, so got the mile in.
El called and we talked for almost an hour. We made a date to take her plants to the new house today and I'm looking forward to seeing it again.

Saturday

Walked the walk. Spent time on the computer after breakfast, then zipped out to various stores for cauliflower, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and dressing. Had some for lunch, along with chicken, and cut up the cauliflower to slow-cook. Finally bought gardening tools; now I have all the components I need, except some of the actual plants.
I'm friends with Joe B. on Facebook; he's Jack B.'s son and I was alarmed to see that Jack is in Southern Ocean Hospital. I called my brother, Larry, to tell him and we had a good talk. He called me back later to say he had spoken to Jack, who's still in, and learned he had a bowel blockage. It was repaired and, seemingly, he's on the mend. Jack and Larry have been best buddies almost literally from birth. They went all through St. James, Holy Spirit, and Villanova together. In fact, Mrs. B. and Mom were also best friends for seventy or so years.
I had sent away for Pure Obsession wrinkle removal (and eye bag cream), received it and dabbed it on my face. Incredibly, it really does work! I put more on my left cheek than the right and that side is noticeably smoother. I think it kind of plumps up something under the skin. After complaining about it on Facebook, I should apologize, I guess.
Bought Father's Day cards for my two boys, son-in-law, and grandson and mailed the overseas ones.
Went to town and parked at the museum, my usual, then walked to the library to get my other mile in. This is getting to be a regular thing with me and that's good. Didn't get home until after 4:00 and found a letter from my adopted fair city, telling me I wasn't selected for the library commission. Their loss and, to be honest, it's probably just as well. I don't think I want to sit in on boring monthly meetings with politicians, as I can't generally can't stand that ilk.

A Variety

Walked Kimball, of course, before I started my day. I could have kicked myself for making the car appointment for 9 am, because that meant I couldn't stay for the T.O.P.S. meeting. Did get in and weighed and found I've lost another 2.4--happy day! That means I've passed the twenty pounds off mark; I'm actually at 21.6 down. I then reluctantly Left before the meeting to take the car to Rob's Remedies. I was at his place for an hour while he took off the tires to check the brakes. Yes, they need to be relined or whatever, but it isn't urgent and I'll go back on Thursday, the twenty-second.
El called and we discussed getting rid of her king bed. I called some homeless shelters, but none would take any but twins. Nancy called and I suggested we go to the Rubicon to see The Other Mozart, so we will. Made a date for Wednesday next, as the Brits say.
Doorbell rang and it was my neighbor, Don, with four large, perfect avocados for me. I'm not sure where he got them, but I thanked him enthusiastically. We got to talking and somehow it turned to the military his daughter is in the navy and he was in the army. Without going into detail, I'll just say I expressed some pacifist ideas--Don asked what the word means--and he seemed startled. I doubt if he ever realized people could lean in that direction.
It occurred to me after he left that once in a while, I might consider keeping my mouth shut. Don was raised in a foster home, I think he's somewhat limited intellectually, but he's a good person, and I'm used to discussing--or debating--with others better able to do so. So, after I took clothes to the laundry room, I walked over to his place and apologized. He assured me there was no need, but there was, and I'm glad I did. Don's incredibly big and healthy tomato plants are his pride and joy, and no wonder. I admired them extravagantly and he invited me in to see his furniture. He had gotten it free from the complex because the offices and clubhouse are being redone. That's good.
Went to town, parked at the usual, walked to the library and back. Stopped and bought an addition to my container gardening ambition--I just need gardening tools, then I'll begin. Stopped at Suzanne's when I got home and we stood and chatted. She gave me two small tomatoes from her cherry tomato plant--so sweet and so good. I invited her in and we talked some more, with quite a lot about Don. She's known him for the ten years he's lived here and he hasn't had an easy life.
Seasoned and popped in the oven chicken leg quarters, cut and cook acorn squash, and boiled up a big mess of spinach--a yummy dinner. Went to Sprouts after and got blueberries, my evening snack of choice. Talked again to Ellen.

Coalition and Caregivers

Walked Kimball and was back here before 8:00. Called The Coalition at 9:00, as instructed, and after some back and forth, was told the driver would be at El's between 11:30 and 11:30. I drove over there and he got there promptly.
He was a nice guy--Mike--and he quickly and efficiently loaded everything into his truck. There was so much, it filled one whole side of the garage out to about four feet, but he did it by himself, even the high bookcase. In the meantime, Greg came home and El called from school. It's all finished, I told them, and stayed to sweep up a bit in the garage.
Went home and had lunch. Called my three "phone friends," then did some chores. Went to the library and had just time to get back, change my pedal pushers (or whatever they're called now), run a comb through my hair, and leave for the wine glass decorating at Caregivers.
This was a little get together for volunteers. It was fun--there was also some real wine to add to the festivities--and I decorated two glasses with the stencils and special markers provided. I'm no artist, but they were okay. We were told we could "set" the paint by putting the glasses in a 350 degree over for twenty minutes, then turning it off and letting them sit for ten minutes. I did this as soon as I got home and now they're stored on a high shelf, probably never to see the light of day again.
At 7:00 or so, I suddenly realized I had made a 9:00 with Rob for my car, forgetting T.O.P.S. is at 8:45--darn! Called him and left a message asking if I could make it 10:30, instead. Otherwise, I'll just have to get weighed without staying for the meeting.

BCNN

Walked Kimball. After breakfast, I printed out the picture of Vivian with her MVP award; for some reason, I couldn't send it to Terri (she of A Passage to Barcelona, which I still haven't read). I knew I'd see her at the BCNN meeting.
Called my dear brother, Frank, in Alameda and we had a good virtual visit. His Marybeth is "fair," he said and they now have two aides to come in to help. He also intimated they may have new living arrangements before long--I think he meant an assistant living facility. How I would love to go up to see them.
Went to the BCNN meeting at 10:30; this was later than usual to accommodate the speaker, our mayor, whose schedule was tight. Saved seats from Sue, Doris, and Sherry, who go there shortly after I did.
The mayor's talk was actually pretty good. He had some pointed questions after--over development, water use, and so on--and handled them well. There are no meetings in July or August (not sure about August, but I'll get the minutes on-line), so we won't be gathering again until September. Chatted with my friends and a few others and had coffee. Showed off the pic of Vivian to Terri and others and of course, they oohed and aahed over it.
Sue and I then went to lunch at Stephen's, the Greek restaurant Ellen took me to first. Sue got some kind of sloppy gyro and I, of course, just ordered a glass of Chardonnay and ate my tangerines with it. We had some good talk and Sue showed me her new android phone, which I may get. We started talking about different interests and she highly recommended something called "Peter's Pond." It's from South Africa and you can see "elephants and tigers and all kinds of birds at a watering hole." I started laughing and said my children would love to hear this, as I'm about as much interested in animals as I am in the great molasses flood of 1919. Actually, I'm a lot more interested in that and have read a book about it.
When I got home, I had a message from the doctor's office to call, something that always alarms me. I knew it must be regarding my blood work, and it was, but nothing urgent. I was just told to cut my B12 to three times a week instead of every day. Will do.
Had a hard-boiled egg and broccoli to top off my lunch. Took my currency to the bank, but after a great deal of research and so on, they also said they weren't worth a thing. Okay, I think I'll use them as some kind of decoration or conversation piece.
Went to WinCo for fish and veggies; had fresh tuna steak for dinner.

Around And About, As Usual

Walked Kimball in what passes for rain here--a very fine mist that barely moistened my hair.
I decided to finally exchange all the foreign currency I have. Found a place in town that does that, took my bills and coins from various parts of Europe and Asia, and was told they don't do coins and my bills were all too old and no longer in use. What? But did they lose their value in the country of origin, too? Yes. Puzzling over that, I left and will see if BOA will do it.
I was called for jury duty, so decided to take my response to the Hall of Justice, which is only about a mile from me. Turned it in to a very courteous woman and she explained I call the Friday before, and so on. I found it interesting that in Jersey, you can be excused from duty if you're over 75, but there's no such exemption in California. (However, if you have a physical problem of some kind at any age, you can be.)
Went from there home and followed up on Ellen's request that a charity to pick up her items come before Monday. Got the Coalition for Harmony in the Home; they'll come Thursday, when El will still be in school, but I'll go over to receive them. The Coalition runs one of my favorite thrift stores, so that's a nice coincidence. Speaking of which, I stopped at one of my other favorites, the Bargain Box; couldn't resist buying two more succulents in attractive containers.
I'm giving El a house-cleaning as a new home gift and called Molly Maids to arrange to have them come next Monday, the day before her furniture comes. Talked to her and we got all the stuff arranged. Called Rob to change my Monday car check-up to Friday and also told Suzanne I wouldn't need her to pick me up on Thursday, after all. Whew-- lots of comings, goings, and complicated arrangements going on!
Late in the day, I went to the library and sat and read for a while. I'm listening to an audio book on divers who found a WWII German U-Boat off the coast of New Jersey (Brielle) and dived to the Andrea Doria. Intrigued, I took out a book about the latter. I'm also reading Linwood Barclay's Broken Promises; that's fiction, which I don't read a lot, but this is good. Stopped at Sprouts for tuna steak, which I'll have tonight. Cut up my small cauliflower and put it in the slow cooker; it was so good, I ate the whole thing for dinner with rock fish.

Widder Lunch

Got up earlier than usual and was at Kimball Park for my walk at 7:00 am. After breakfast, I finished up the box I had prepared for the beautiful and unique cards made by my daughter-in-law over the years. Showered and dressed for the widder lunch at Marie Calender's, but stopped first for a manicure. I wanted a spring-y color, but what I picked is the exact shade of Fleer's Double Bubble gum! Oh, well, I think it's kind of cute, in a teeny-bopper way.
There were seven of us at lunch, including my pal, Nancy. Vera couldn't come, as she was caring for her daughter in high school who, horribly enough, had an accident with the electric saw in shop class and cut off all or part of a finger--I didn't get the whole story yet. Of course, I took my tangerines, rather than order off the menu, and enjoyed my glass of Chardonnay. We had a fine time, as ever, and Nancy and I made a date to go to the movies on Friday. I understand that Yolanda's, where we used to meet and is being renovated, will be finished soon. We may switch our gatherings back to there or alternate. I don't really care one way or the other, but will go to either.
When I got home, I packed up the 37 vinyl records Ellen had left in my care and went to Grady's Record Shop. Had to wait around for a a half-hour while he examined them, but he offered me a price for them and I took it. Will give the dough to El, of course.
Went from there to town and stopped in my usual. Picked up a table mirror with silver trim. Should go well in my bedroom, either on the table or bureau. Had the swordfish for dinner and it was delish.

In Town and Trash

Walked Kimball. (I had skipped on Saturday because of the garage sale, but of course, I could easily have walked later in the day, but didn't.)
Did my usual Sunday thing, then set out for town under cloudy skies. Luckily, as often happens here, it cleared up later. I parked at the museum and, walking past the Clock Tower Inn, I noticed broken glass on the sidewalk. I stepped in to suggest somebody clear it up and could not find a single soul. I walked through the lobby, past the desk, into the atrium, and beyond that--nobody. I immediately entertained a powerful image of The Overlook, that haunted place in TheShining, expecting Jack Nicholson to charge out with a knife any minute.
Continued on my way and walked the half mile to the library. Forgot it didn't open until 1:00 on Sunday and it was before noon, but that was okay. I stopped and browsed in a few places, then went back. Stopped into the Clock Tower again and finally found somebody there. I showed her the broken glass and she said the county has people who would take care of that; she was surprised they hadn't come yet.
Fer cryin' out loud! If I had had a broom and pan, I would have done it! Why couldn't she just go to housekeeping, get the stuff, and occupy herself? Zeus knows she didn't have a helluva lot to do in her job...
...if it was her job. Maybe she had murdered the real employee and was... Oh, no, I don't think she'd have the initiative.
Anyway, I continued to my car. Stopped on the way home at the Cat's Cradle Thrift Store to look for containers and found two nice ones--plus it was a fifty percent off day, so got them for a song.
Home for lunch, then off again to replenish my B-12. Saw an estate sale sign, so stopped and got a pretty mosaic container. I chatted with the estate sale people and remarked how sad and pathetic it was to see a couple's possessions up for sale. However, I was told they were in good health, didn't have children, and decided to move to a retirement home, where they're doing well. That was good to hear.
Went to Ralph's because I have a yen for swordfish. Got some, as well as rockfish, which I put in the freezer, and three kinds of squash. El called, then came over to unload several bags and a box of trash.

Garage Sale

Up at 6:15, did a bit on this machine, drank coffee, packed my breakfast and lunch, and got to Ellen's by 7:30. I had been worried that there wouldn't be a lot of other garage salers, but there were several on another street in the complex and we opened at 8:00.
As usually happens, the bulk of the buyers came early--from about opening to noon or so. I had only a small number of items and no big-ticket ones; I had sold or otherwise got rid of most of my stuff before I left Jersey and jettisoned more when I moved to Ventura Del Sol. However, I did pretty well, Ellen even better, and what was left will go to ARC (Association of Retarded Citizens) for its thrift store in Oxnard.
What didn't sell of my stuff were three pretty needlepoint pictures in oval frames of roses that look antique, although they may not be. I had them hanging in my house in Sunrise Bay for years, but just have no room for them here. Along with one or two other things, I'm going to see if historic Dudley House might want them as donations; if not, I give them to one of the nicer thrift stores.
I brought my shoji screen and was disappointed to get no takers most of the day. I couldn't bring myself to give it away, so thought I'd try selling it on Craig's List. However, while we were packing up, a woman came in, offered me close to what I had priced it, which I agreed to instantly, and off she went with it. Yay! Not only did I not have to cart it home again (and I have to fold down both back seats to get it in the car), but I got money for it--close to what I paid 18 months ago.
I helped El a bit after, then took off. She and I had exchanged a few things our selves--gratis, of course--and I went home to put what I got away. I figured up what I actually cleared, and it was sixty-seven dollars. No fortune, but it's a nice piece of change and it was fun; the best part was being with Ellen. Also, of course, I got rid of stuff I don't need. I then took off to WinCo for provisions.
Later, I met Suzanne on my way to empty the trash. She had been to an artists' colony in Camarillo and we made a tentative date to go to a lecture there on the seventeenth. I also asked if she's be so kind as to accompany to Rob's Remedies when I get my car checked.

Short Entry

This will be very short because I just got up, am due over at Ellen's shortly, and have a few more things to get in the car.
Went to T.O.P.S. and I'm down another pound for 19 off. I was a tad disappointed it wasn't more, but hey, down is down. The rest of the day was practically all garage sale. I gathered together the stuff I want to sell today, loaded up the car and drove to Ellen's. She was busy with paperwork and phone calls with the mortgage company, turning off and on electricity, cable, and so on, she asked me to pick up some garage sale items. I got signs and price stickers, and so on. The two of us then spent the day--I didn't get home until 7:00--going through stuff, tidying up the garage, arranging and pricing. Let's hope there's a mob there today.

Blood And The Commission

It was a morning of unforeseen events and obstacles:
I kept my 7:30 blood test appointment (routine) and was out of there by quarter of eight. Quest is right on Kimball and I drove straight to the park and walked the walk. I had forgotten somebody is there on Tuesdays and Thursdays to take BP and oxygen and I had mine done. I got 120/70 and 97 whatever, which I think is okay. I said hello to another walker and when I got back to my car, she asked if I would jump hers. Sure thing, and we did. Drove off and found that the usual left-hand turn onto Telegraph Road was blocked by workers from the electric co.; had to go around.
Once home, I put in my toast. I noticed it seemed to be taking longer than usual. Yoicks! No wonder, because the toast came up charred to black. I took it out and prepared to put another in when the smoke alarm went off. Called Patti, she said she'd send Javier over, but it stopped by itself in a minute.
Ate, showered, and washed my hair, thinking all along of a plot for a play: character is due somewhere, but all kinds of happenings make her late. Would she avoid a hold-up or getting in a train that crashes, or...? Conversely, would being late make her come in the middle of the hold-up or in...?
None of that happened to me.
I was early for my appointment with the Harbor Commission. Chatted with a woman who was also being interviewed and found she had been some kind of executive director of something to do with boats--or something. I had debated with myself whether to withdraw, as it was Suze who really wanted me to get on the commission. However, I see no reason why I should run interference for Suze and the upshot was:
The council members were very pleasant, but early on, I confessed I wasn't really a good candidate for the harbor thing (although I do know Sue, who lives on a boat). I didn't even realize the same people would also be interviewing for the library and parks commissions. I confessed the park thing was really about the unleashed dogs on my part; the one I want most is for the library. We talked about that, I made my case, and I hope I get chosen.
Home for lunch, then put a wash in. Back and forth with that, then I drove back to town and actually--bought a belt! It's been years since I've worn a belt and it just gave me a lift. Walked here and there for a bit, then home to a dinner of salmon, spinach, and acorn squash. After, I hauled out a lot of stuff for the garage sale at Ellen's tomorrow. Also assembled, photographed, and posted on Craig's List the 37 old records she has--vinyl and they include the Beatles, John Denver, Culture Club, and many others. Added the garage sale itself.

This And That And Nothing Much

Walked Kimball, although it was downright chilly. I should have put my sweat shirt on, but didn't think of it and walked anyway.
Got an e-mail from Marsha, director of the Health & Wellness Center at SCAN, asking that I submit an invoice for my stipend. Worked one up and added my expenses of another thirty some bucks to cover black printer ink and the binders I bought for the players.
Went to the 99-cent store for a few items and to WinCo for salad fixings. I added cans of kidney and black beans, figuring they were good additions for protein. With chicken, it always makes a nice lunch. Had a nice chat with the fishmonger (I'm hankering for swordfish and he should get some in this week) and introduced me to a fish called "swai." He said it was something like catfish, but without the unpleasant aftertaste. I haven't had catfish for years and I don't remember any unpleasant aftertaste, but I bought the swai.
Drove to town and the library to replace the audio book I had gotten--didn't like it--with another. This one is about two divers who discover a WWII German U-Boat sunk off the coast of New Jersey and lost for sixty or so years. Also got something by Linwood Barclay called Broken Promises. I don't read a lot of fiction, but this is pretty good.
From there, I went to the beach. I haven't been there for months--it's been chilly, for one, and I've been busy, for two. I got my chair out of the trunk and sat and read for almost an hour. It was heavenly, what with the sun and the sparking ocean and the sound of the waves.
Got a message from Sue confirming our date on Wednesday next for BCNN and lunch. She also asked if she could have a copy of her scripts. Hmm...I don't really like having them out there, but since she swore she wouldn't circulate them or tell anyone else, I agreed.
Seasoned the swai with Mrs. Dash and pan-fried it for dinner. Delicious and I'll add that to my seafood selections.