Plaza Park And Zoom

It was actually RAINING when I got up yesterday! Well, it was drizzling. Actually, it was more like misting. A tiny bit. Walked anyway, of course, and it had stopped by the time I finished. Worked on my research talk for tonight after breakfast.
Dusted, did a few other chores, and moved things around in the living room. Assembled my salad lunch, packed it and my little bottle of Chardonnay, and took off for Plaza Park to meet Diane.
She had asked me to bring some poetry with me and I had printed out some Yeats, a little Dickinson, and William Blake. I recited others for her and we discussed them, along with lots of other topics. I like Diane more and more, even though--maybe, because--she's a little whiffty.
We finished up and I walked to the library; read a little of David Brinkley's auto-bio, but lost interest and left. I stopped into Goodwill and bought a ceramic tissue holder. Stopped at the store after for lettuce, grapes, and so on. I'm debating whether to go to the museum today for "lunch munch"; people bring their lunches, eat in the courtyard, while they listen to a musician play.  I've been wanting to do that, so may this afternoon.
After dinner, I pulled up the Zoom meeting a half hour early--I thought--and was surprised to see Tony, Fern, Cece, and Rachel on the screen already talking. When I expressed surprise, I was told it had started at 6:30, not 7:30, as I had thought. After, when I checked Tony's e-mail, I saw he had indeed written "6:30-7:30"; my eye had just fallen on the last, I guess. Sent an e-mail and apologized.

The Cave With Noreen

The usual in the early hours. After breakfast, I scrubbed and trimmed two pounds of carrots, added cut-up tangerines and, just for variety, a few lime wedges, and put all in the slow cooker. Tidied up the apartment, tidied up my bod, then left to meet Noreen at The Cave at 1:00.
We had a ball gabbing away, both with Chardonnay in hand. I had a veggie burger (made in-house with beets, ground nuts, and something else), plus their yummy, also made there, potato chips.  We were there for more than an hour and a half and will see each other at Humor & Drama Toastmasters tomorrow night. It got a bit chilly, so I went home to get my warmer jacket, then took off for town and my walk. 
Stopped at Target on the way back and got a gift card for Vera, whose birthday party I'll attend next Friday. On the way home, I picked up some mushrooms, as I decided to have a veggie dinner.  As it turned out, though, I wasn't hungry after my big lunch, so just had a big bowl of the carrots.
Ellen called shortly before I sat down to eat and we had a good,  long talk. I was delighted to hear she's going to the graduation party for great-niece, Claire next Friday. She invited me to stay over at her place that night, which I will.
Must gather more poetry before my lunch with Diane today--will 'splain later.

Nothing Much

Nothing much went on yesterday, aside from the usual. Did a load of wash and had to go to the other laundry place across the parking lot. This has been remodeled and mine is being done now. Ran into upstairs neighbor, Yahn (he's Finnish and that's how you pronounce it; probably a variation of "John:) and found that he's moving to Oregon. He's a computer analyst and will work for Intel. Called Betty, who will be in L.A. on Wednesday morning.
Went out for lettuce, carrots, and stuff after. Had lunch, then went to town. I stopped and bought a small, three hook coat rack and, for some reason, just decided not to continue to the library, which I knew was closed, anyway.
Walked back to the car, then took a drive. Stopped at Ralph's for both laundry and dishwasher detergent. Stopped at Suzanne's when I got home and we discussed the article in Time about how the disastrous present problems have come about. She subscribes to the mag--concerning which I have a lot of issues--and always gives me hers after she reads it. We had a good discussion about how heinously both democrats and republicans have raped the middle class.
Noreen returned my call and we decided we weren't interested in any of the movies available, so will just meet at The Cave for lunch today.

A Wedding

The usual Sunday routine, but after walk, breakfast, and crossword, I lay down on the sofa and actually took a nap. I had gotten up annoyingly early--4:30--and felt good after. Darn, I did the same this morning and that's a little too early, even for me.
As for yesterday, it was mundane.  I quickly dusted and mopped the hard floors, then went out for more (more!) blueberries and photo paper for the printer. I did put the family pictures in the new frame, but I'm not happy with all of them and may substitute others if I can get them to come out better.
Lunch, then town, which was just abuzz with people--tourists, street musicians, sight-seers, and shoppers, all concentrated in the five blocks between the museum and the library. I stopped for fifteen minutes or so to watch a wedding party arriving at St. Bonaventure's: pretty bridesmaids dressed in pale mauve, a flower girl in an old-fashioned bonnet, the mother, I guess,all gotten up in finery. Then the young bride got out of a car with an older man, her father, maybe. They slowly ascended the stairs and I had such a rush of feeling, remembering my own wedding. In less than a month, it will be my sixtieth  anniversary day and for fifty-two of those years, I was a wife, not a widow.  May the young couple who got  married yesterday have long and happy lives.
Stopped at Office Max on the way home to look at their laptop carriers. For various reasons, I didn't like any of theirs, so will probably keep the one I bought at Best Buy.
BP: 108/70 (65--pulse?)

Cece

Kimball and so on.
I was scheduled to meet Cece at the Barnes & Noble Coffee Shop at 9:30, but she texted, then called to say she was running late and could we make it 10:00 at the Hill Street Library? Actually, that worked out better for me, as I had been in the middle of using the Chop Wizard on both cauliflower and yellow peppers, so sure.
Got there, secured a private room, and Cece came after. We spent about forty-five minutes going  over  particulars on Toastmasters--she's been in for 14 years--including some of the same things I asked Jeanne the other day.  We then started talking about ourselves and spent another hour and a half on that.
It's great getting to know better people you like to begin with. Cece is in her middle sixties, quite attractive, intelligent, and warm-hearted. She never married and her brother--who may or may not have had a drinking problem--lives with her in the house they grew up in. She was the youngest of six, her parents are now gone, and she's lived in Ventura all her life. 
Somehow, we started talking about the Catholic Church and birth control; I was surprised when she casually mentioned she had gotten the pill when she was 19 or so, although she wasn't promiscuous. She was raised Catholic, but is now very active in a fundamentalist church. She said she had tried "OK Cupid," a dating service, and met a man, but according to Cecehe came up with a negative: He was a Capricorn and she's Leo or something. Good grief.
When I expressed surprise that she would put any credence in astrology, she assured me she didn't. This has happened a number of times in my experience: No, no, I don't believe in it, the person says, but Capricorns and Leos don't get along--AAGH!  If Cece didn't believe in it, the guy's "birth sign" wouldn't even have entered her consciousness. But no prob, it was an enjoyable way to start the day.
Other than that, I followed my usual routine.

T.O.P.S.And The 101

The usual morning routine, then home to change and go to T.O.P.S. As ever, I'm staying at 128--up three-tenths of a pound, but that's okay. Long, boring meeting, so didn't have breakfast until 10:30. I then went out to re-stock; bought mucho vegetables and fruit at three different stores.
After lunch, it occurred to me I hadn't dropped in on Greg at Whole Foods for some time, so why not do so?  I also wanted to stop at Best Buy for a laptop briefcase/holder/sleeve or whatever they're called. I took Harbor Boulevard, as I was sure I could get to Whole Foods without involving the 101 Freeway.
I couldn't.  I drove around here, there, and everywhere in Oxnard and never did hit The Collection, which is where Whole Foods is. I did stumble on Best Buy and bought a laptop thing, but I'm not sure if I'll keep it; I'll see what Office Max has. There's no point in enumerating all my driving errors mistakes or re-hashing the various wrong turns I made, but I was "lost," sort of, for a good hour. I finally gave up, drove back into Ventura, then to town, and did the museum to library thing. Read for a while, then came home.
Actually, I kind of enjoyed the driving in Oxnard, but think I'll have to resign myself to the idea of using the 101.

Chang And Eng

It was downright chilly at Kimball, but I just quickened my walking pace. Home, breakfast, and then I finally tackled the huge jobs of filing papers, storing some of my acting stuff, finishing the letter to Tony at the YMCA  re my course, clearing a lot of my closet, and tidying up some of my bedroom. Looks good, but I have plenty more to do.
After lunch, I took off for town and since I pass there on  the way, dropped my proposal off at the Y.  Later, I got a call from Tony, but missed it; I assume it was just to let me know he got my letter.
After I parked at the museum, I stopped in there to check on the cartoonist exhibit. I had mentioned it to Chuck W. on Facebook and he responded that he knew two of the artists. (Chuck himself was a Superman cartoonist, among others; he's now retired, although he went to school with my older son).
I talked to the receptionist there and she told me of a book signing last evening. This author wrote a bio of Chang and Eng, the early conjoined twins (called "Siamese." but were actually Chinese, just born in what is now Thailand) and would talk about it, plus there was a reception beforehand, starting at 6:00. I impulsively decided to go and I did.
So often, it seems to me, spontaneity adds a pleasurable spark to my activities. I had a fine time last night, not  least, maybe, because it was spur-of-the-moment. The fact that they had a lovely spread (various cheeses, crackers, grapes, nuts, and so on) and even lovelier wine (I had both white and red) could have something to do with it, too.
The speaker, Dr. Huang, was very entertaining.  He was born in China and after a long saga to which he alluded, moved to the U.S. years ago, became a citizen and teaches at UCSB. I told him my son had graduated from there, but in 1990, before his tenure. Unfortunately, the audience was very sparse. The room (which is where we used to meet for BCNN) was set up for roughly a hundred people, I'd say, and only fifteen or so were there.
After I sat down in the front row, a youngish woman behind me tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I wasn't on the Ventura Council for Seniors. Yes, before I resigned, but who was this?  Her name is Denise Something and she used to be with the county and had attended our meetings. And now? Why, she's the program director at the museum. Aha! I mentioned my Dionne quintuplet presentation offhandedly and she seemed interested. If I ever get my act together re-organizing particulars, I'll get in touch with her. 
Mrs. El Cheapo that I am, I actually shelled out thirty bucks to buy the book. Dr. H. signed and wrote something in it. Once I'm finished with Tennessee Williams, I'll read it.  Got home before full dark after a very enjoyable excursion. 

Diane And Jeanne

Walked the walk, ate the breakfast, and fooled around on the computer, continuing the picture project. Left for town about 11:30, parked and walked the scant mile to the park. Diane was already there, we opened our lunches, poured our wine, and enjoyed lunch.
We also, of course, talked and talked and talked. Topics? Our early lives--mine in Ventnor, hers in Chicago; our extended families; our religion and lack thereof; Buddhism and quantum physics (a big bore, if you ask me, but whatever turns you on); Einstein and his ceramic cat, which I own*; and poetry, of which Diane knows little and I a lot. She asked me to bring some Yeats next week, which I will. After a leisurely time, we strolled the block to the library, she to set up her laptop and peruse her esoteric--or goofy, depending on your point of view--interests, I to read a bit more about the Casey Anthony case. Left after an hour and walked back to the car, and home.
As I pulled in, I saw Don, who said his rent had been raised by $80 a month, and he'll have to leave, although he's been here eleven years . Another neighbor came up and Don introduced met to Earl, who is was born in Hawaii. We chatted a bit, then I moved on to prepare the laptop to see Jeanne, my adviser--or something--from Toastmaster.
Jeanne heads up the therapy unit at a "post high school" facility for teens and up to 22-year-olds who need some kind of  special ed. I suppose it was a useful session, but I continue to wonder how much time I want to spend on it.
* Years ago, my friend, Elaine, and I went to a house sale  in Princeton. It had been Einstein's house before he died, and I bought the ceramic cat I still have here. I'm pretty sure it was Einstein's. Well, I think it was Einstein's. Okay, it may or may not have been Einstein's, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

"Book Club"

The usual in the morning, then home for breakfast, and I dressed for town.  As ever, I parked at the museum and walked the not quite a mile to the movie, but was 45 minutes early. Went up to the library, which wasn't even open yet, then just strolled around--might as well keep moving--until she got there.
We weren't surprised that Book Club had drawn a considerable audience, all practically doddering, of course. I had been ambiguous about going as I dislike the idea of age being the defining factor of a person, but in fact, I enjoyed it. It's what's called an "ensemble" movie, meaning that all four major parts are of equal importance--there's no standalone star. (Steel Magnolias, in which I appeared, is of the same genre.)  The four characters--played by Fonda, Keaton, Bergen, and Steenburgen--are respectively, a rich woman, never married, but experienced; a recent widow,; a divorced federal judge; and a married woman whose husband has gone cold on her. I could actually relate in some way to all of them and their various adventures. Predicable as much of it was, it was entertaining, with lots of funny parts. Anyway, we both enjoyed it. I suggested the Japanese restaurant across the street and we went there. After we parted, I walked back the library to read a bit. Saw Diane there and confirmed out lunch-in-the-park date for today.
When I got home, I was charmed to find at my door a vase with a beautiful pink rose in it. Rang Suzanne's bell, and yes, she had left it. Her patio is just gorgeous, with roses and other flowers abloom.  She's going away from June 1 to 8 (brother's fiftieth anniversary) and asked me to pick up her mail, as the P.O. is now charging to hold it.
Unfortunately, I had a very wakeful night. Got up for the usual reason about 3:00 am and have hardly slept since. I may take a nap after breakfast and/or go to bed early.

Widder Dinner and Fandango

Ran into Ed and his dog, Lola, at Kimball. As ever, he was full of talk--his trip to Atlanta (you'd think it was Atlantis, he was so full of it) and going to this great restaurant with rocking chairs (Cracker Barrel, fer cryin' out loud!). I escaped after five or so and got home by 7:30.
After breakfast, at long last, I galvanized myself and wrote to Tony M. at the Y, with my proposal for  resuming my acting class in the fall. I have to hone the letter a bit and decide what enclosures, but since he's familiar with Acting for Amateurs, having approved it for SCAN, that shouldn't be a problem.
Called my niece, Joan, to tell her I won't be coming to Jersey in June after all, as Mike and the girls will be here. Incredibly, we talked for just a few minutes shy of two hours. Had a lot to say.
I called Noreen to see if we were on for our movie and lunch today. We are  and will see Book Club  at the early show (10:20 am); think I'll suggest we eat Japanese.
Went to town and saw a portable easel at The Coalition for twenty-five bucks; it folds into a kind of suitcase and even has a bench to sit on. I texted El to see if she thought Greg might want it, then took pictures. However, it may be missing some screws, so I'm not sure if it would be worth buying--it's up to them.
Stayed reading at the library (I'm into the Casey Anthony case) and didn't get home until 5:00. Got my medication from Caremark, opened it and found they had included--and charged for me--not only the 20-mg Atorvastin, but the 49 mg, too. What a hassle when I called: They refused to rescind the charge, but said I could file a grievance with Blue Shield. I may or may not; not sure it's worth the effort.
Got to Sizzler about 5:00  to find my widder group of twenty or so. I had a glass of Chardonnay and just ordered the soup bar with it. I had a good time with these good people. When I got home, I used Fandango for the first time and got my movie ticket sent to my phone. Okay, it's convenient, but I was incensed that they charge not just for the ticket, but a $1.50 "convenience charge." Damn, these companies will nickel and dime you to death.

Routine, Ritual, Ritual, Routine

The usual Sunday routine--or ritual. I was so early at Kimball only a few other people were walking and I got home at 7:30. Changed my sheets and took a load of wash to the laundry place.
I'm continuing that picture project, which seems to have become a life mission or something. Now I've decided I want different pictures of the kids, so started searching Facebook and my own pics for them. Still have a few to go.
Went out for grapes and peppers, chopped the latter with onions, and reserved them for turkey stir fry, which I had for dinner. Cut up my cabbage, added a few seasonings and put it in the slow cooker. I'm proud of the fact that I hung two pictures, one a large, unframed canvas I put over the bathroom sink, the other one smaller with a picture of the herb and the legand "Rosemary." Could I  resist buying it? Nah.
Went to town after lunch--it was jammed, of course, but I like it that way--read in the library for a bit, then went home to assemble and cook dinner. Stir fry was very tasty; I'll be having dinner at  Sizzler tonight, so froze what was left of it for another day. The cabbage was yummy, too.
The above sounds like a dull day, but it wasn't.  Maybe somebody else would disagree, but my routine and rituals suit me and I like a day once in a while to just catch up on things.
I'll be out the next three days for various (and I have two dates on Wednesday), so this was good.
Showered and washed my hair, then settled in for the night--I thought. I was in bed and almost  asleep, when the phone rang. Good grief, was it some kind of emergency? No, it was Cece, from Toastmasters. I had e-mailed her, asking for her phone number so we could get together and she was calling me about it.
I try to be very careful not to call people before 10 am or so, unless I'm sure they're early risers. I was taken aback that she assumed 9:15 pm was no prob for me. However, Cece is a good person and has been very helpful to me, so I'll let it slide, of course, and I doubt if it will happen again.

Out And About With El

Enjoyable day! Walked Kimball and so on, then spent time on that little picture project.  Talked to Betty, who will be going to Santa Barbara on May 30. Ellen called to ask if I wanted to get a pedicure with her after I picked her up at Pep Boys. Yes siree bob, I did. I've been meaning to get one--I badly needed it--but hadn't gotten around to it. She made the appointment for both of us for 11:30, I picked her up at Pep Boys, and we went straight to Jessica Nails.
We both picked a nice bright red and sat side by side to have our tooties beautified, chatting happily while it went on.  El said she and Greg had gone to the Ojai Theatre to see a short play based on the true story about a woman who bought a painting at a yard sale for three bucks, which turned out to be a Jackson Pollack worth millions. They enjoyed it immensely, especially since Greg is painted some good stuff himself.
El had said she'd rather not go to town, where the Blue Agave is, so we decided on Marie Callender's which we were able to walk to. I had a shrimp taco and ice-cold Chardonnay and we happily talked and talked. We then picked up her car and both drove to Big Lots to look at patio/yard umbrellas. We didn't get them there, but El bought two darling sofa cushions with robins on them.
After that, we said goodbye and I went directly to town for my walk and short time at the library. Stopped on the way home and got cherries, more blueberries, and limes. Had swordfish for dinner and I like fresh lime juice with it.

T.O.P.S. And Produce

Got to Kimball, but later than I have been. Saw the usual suspects, said hello, and got home by 8:00. Changed for T.O.P.S. and weighed in at--surprise! One twenty-eight point 4, so I've essentially stayed the same (with very minor variations; I was 138.9 last week) for about five weeks, which is fine by me.
The meeting, however, was not fine by me. There were only eight of us there--leader Lennie is off on a trip--and it was led by Lolly.  Slow, deliberate Lolly. Ponderous, no sense of humor Lolly. Deadly serious Lolly.
Okay, that really isn't fair. Lolly is a former teacher. She's actually a kind, friendly person that you could best describe as "mild." Unfortunately, that sometimes translates into dull, tedious, and monumentally--well, boring. She hasn't experienced any discernible weight loss, as far as I can see. Like virtually all the other members, she loses a pound or two, than gains three and loses one and gains...ad infinitum. She brought in a meaningless article about how taking hot baths is as good as exercise and proceeded to slowly read every word. Anyway, I finally escaped, but it was after 10:00 before I got breakfast.
After, I worked on my family picture frame project. I succeeded in filling all the slots, but am not satisfied with all the pictures, so may rethink it. Went to town, walked, then to WinCo for goodies. I bought so many that I had to make two trips from my car to my apartment to get them all in.  They included lettuce, tomatoes, acorn squash, spaghetti squash, watermelon, cabbage, and something else I forget.
Just saw a FB message from Mike. He and the girls will be here at the end of June, then to New Mexico in July. I'm mulling over changing my plans for Jersey in June; may wait until August.

Humor & Drama

It was very pleasant walking Kimball, as it's getting warmer. Did that, then after breakfast finished a load of wash. I then turned my attention to a project of mine, to wit: I bought a lucite frame which has ten places for pictures. Eureka! I have ten descendants--children, grands, great-grands--so it's perfect for my family. The openings are 4 by 6 and I have all but my children done. I decided I wanted to have pics of them with their spouses or significant other, and I'm hunting for the best ones. The problem is, the openings are horizontal and it seems the better ones are more vertical. Well, I'll keep working on it.
Went out after lunch for the usual town walk, then read for an hour in the library. This time, I'm into bios of John Huston, which are reasonably interesting.  Went from there to Sprouts for salmon and fresh shrimp, then another place for grapes.
Jumped in the shower when I got home and dressed for Human & Drama Toastmasters. It was sparsely attended, as usual, but not bad. Raul was scheduled to give a talk, but wasn't able to come. Impulsively, I filled in with my "On The Beach" talk. It went over very big, I have to say, and now I can get it out of my mind.
The meeting ran late and I didn't get to bed until 10:00. Just got up at almost 6:30, so must dress for Kimball.

Lunch In The Park With Diane

Kimball, breakfast, crossword--could I be in a rut?  Yes, but it's my rut and I like it.
Met Diane at Plaza Park at 12:30 for our standing Wednesday date. I brought my little bottle of wine, but she, the sly minx, had hers in an innocent-looking water bottle. Ha--I'll do that next week!
As ever, our talk ranged over childhoods, beliefs or lack of them, and what movies we liked. I told her about Tully, but not, of course, the twist.
Diane gave me a flyer about the "Everyday Mindfulness"class she teaches--or rather, the class she wants to teach. This is a thoroughly new age-ie thing that just flatly isn't for me. I'll mention it tonight at Toastmasters, but not very enthusiastically, I'm afraid. Diane holds all kinds of beliefs (not including organized religion), the whifftier the better, especially about those who have died and come back. There are  hordes of them, it seems, and they said they did, so they must have. She insists there's empirical evidence for this phenomenon and hey, whatever turns you on...
We both walked to the library after, then parted. I went to the bank, conveniently right on Main Street,  to deposit the ninety-three dollar check California so kindly sent me. The Feds have been generous, too, recently sending me $145, the additional refund after I remembered my CREF income.
Home, then I packed up a package and took it to the P.O. Stopped at Sprouts for berries and swordfish, then at Smart 'n' Final for strawberries and Romaine. Once I got home, I sliced the strawberries and by then it was after 5:00 and that was more or less it for the day.

Tully And Corned Beef

Met up with many I know on the Kimball walk, including Diane and Irene, the former just back from one of her strenuous hikes. After breakfast, I got ready to meet Noreen at the movie in town for Tully. She had preferred the early (10:20 AM) showing and actually, it worked out well. Parked at the museum, walked to the library, then went back to the Century 10.  I had been given Fandango for Mothers Day and handed the card in, but was told I had to do it on line, which I will. As for the movie, Tully, I was prepared to dislike it, but in fact, I loved it; I saw myself in a lot of it. There were very few in the theatre--that early on Tuesday, no wonder--but sitting one away from us was a young mother with a tiny (six weeks old) baby. He was all snuggled against her in a kind of sling and slept throughout. We were charmed and I chatted happily with the Mommy (she has an eight-and six-year-old, also). It just seemed to go with the movie theme.
It was only 12:30 or so when we got out and we strolled just a short distance down to Dargan's. I like the place, but hadn't been there for awhile, so I was glad when Noreen suggested. I threw caution to the winds and ordered corned beef and cabbage, which came with mashed potatoes. Of course, I wouldn't dream of such a meal without good Irish beer, so I had a Harp with it.
The corned beef was so damn good, so tender it just fell apart at the touch of my fork. As for the mashed, I haven't had them for sixteen months and not only did I eat them, I put on two pats of butter and savored it. (The cabbage was good, too.) I ate every scrap and had to restrain myself  from licking the plate.
Noreen and I had a good time talking over Toastmasters, family, and so on. It's difficult to see her gait. She has what I think she said is a "bad hip" and she rocks back and forth when she walks, which is not only unsightly, but painful. We'll see each other tomorrow at Humor & Drama Toastmasters. After we parted, I walked back to the library and read for a bit, but wasn't into it and left after a half hour or so.
Stopped in a few stores for blueberries, but found none and picked up blackberries, instead, a poor substitute. Went to the mall to look for light pajamas and found some I liked at Sears, of all places. Also bought slippers--two for the price of one.
On my way home, Ellen called to see if I'd pick her up at Pep Boys on Saturday, then do something after and go to lunch. Yes, indeed, nothing I'd like better.

Toastmasters

The usual early. The rest of the morning is somewhat of a blut; can't quite remember what I did, aside from household chores and the laptop.
Walked in town after lunch and ran into Diane. As usual, she looked beautifully groomed, but said her feet were bothering her. She has nephropathy and I suppose that was the problem. We confirmed our lunch-in-the-park date for tomorrow and moved on.
I had just veggies for dinner, which I like to do now and then: butternut squash, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Changed and left for Toastmasters at 5:30.
I opened up when I got there and set up a bit. Others came, including three guests, who proved to be delightful. I was especially happy to talk with (Owie?), who is from Malaysia. She was interested to hear I've been there and that my son lives in Singapore, which is right next door. I hope all three guests will return.
Cece had Table Topics and it was a fun exercise: She had participants pick folded pieces of paper, each of which had the name of a fictitious country on it. They then had to talk on it impromptu for one to two minutes. I got "Turgistan" and feigned great surprise because, I said, my grandmother came from there.  In fact, she had been its queen, but was overthrown in a coup because she had had an affair with one of her underlings.... And so on. It was a lot of fun.
Fern spoke on the "my passion" theme--in her case, chocolate, and I was her evaluator. She spoke on chocolate and to top it off, brought in delicious little brownies she had made herself. I took one bite of mine, then surreptitiously wrapped the rest in a napkin, and put it in my purse to dispose of it when I got home. Too bad, but I've come too far to risk getting turned on by sugar. 
We also had a guest speaker from headquarters (or wherever) to try to explain the "Pathways" system. It's still clear as mud to me. She said
It was a good meeting, but this particular group suffers from disorganization, which Sue, Cece, and I talked about it after in the parking lot. Let's hope it clears up soon.
  

Mothers Day

Walked Kimball in the kind of California rain that's half-hearted, wishy-washy, and hardly wet. It was just a kind of mist, but chilly.
All my children got in touch, of course, and I talked to Betty, too. I got two beautiful cards from the two beautiful daughters, and coincidentally, both featured butterflies, which I love. Also got a hand-crafted one by the four-year-old artisan in Tokyo, along with a pair of "happy socks." I received a neat gift from somebody I must have told I've been going to the movies often--a "Fandago" card for a certain sum that will pay my way in many times over.
Showered, washed my hair, dressed, and met Ellen at the Aloha for lunch. What a fine time we had! We talked and talked--I always like to hear the latest from her, both about her personal life and her third-grade class. For the first time in fourteen months, I had beef--ordered a rare hamburger and it was delish--especially washed down with two glasses of Chardonnay. After, we went back to her place and had a bowl of ice cream (I think I  had that last in New Mexico last summer). Then El cut more off her loquat tree and I watched what I wanted to see: Get Out. It was pretty good, I thought, although the plot was loosely done.
Said goodbye and got  home about 6:00. Got a call from son, Mike, who had ordered a plant from the place he always uses, but for some reason, they didn't understand it was for Mothers Day, and it won't get here until tomorrow. That's okay, I'll enjoy it then and I'm glad he called.

Food Prep And The Beach

Met up with Captain Bob and Carolyn walking Kimball and even patted their yappy little dogs, Hazel and Sophie (gawd!). After breakfast, Deb Mansfield called to wish me H.M.D. and we talked for a bit.  She's still involved in the Council for Seniors and I'm still glad I'm not, but it was nice to hear from her.
My brother, Jim, called to thank me for Therese's Mothers Day card. It was good to talk to him, but  disheartening to notice how slow and confused he seemed. He's 92, so I guess it's the usual thing, but it's hard for me to accept.
Went to Ralph's then home, where I reverted back to my mild housewife self and completed what seems even to me an impressive amount of food prep:
1. Scrubbed and cut two pounds of carrots . Combined them with cut up tangerines, added cinnamon, and put them in the slow cooker.
2. Made crystal pickles, which I haven't for years, but I came across the recipe again and it's so simple, I couldn't resist. It calls for "Kirby cucumbers," which I didn't find, but bought what were called "Persian pickles." I'm pretty sure they're the same thing, as they look alike; both are smaller variations of regular cucumbers. Sliced them with my mandolin, did the same with an onion, then put them in the fridge for two hours. Later, I put the salt, sugar and vinegar in and froze them. They make a nice side dish and I'll take some to Carolyn's in a few weeks.
3. Trimmed and sliced strawberries, some of which I had last night, along with...
4. ...watermelon, which I cut, then cut the edible part into chunks.
5. Pierced and softened in the microwave a large butternut squash, then discarded the seeds, pared and cut into chunks. I always complete the cooking when I'm about to eat it.
6. Brussels sprouts--trimmed and stored in fridge.
7. Mushrooms--my new fav; cut up and stir-fried in olive oil to go with my shrimp and carrots for dinner.
8. Had no chicken for my salad, so hard-boiled four eggs, reserving two for another day.
That was about it and damn, I needed to get out. Had lunch, then took off for town, but changed  my mind on the way. I knew it would be jammed--it always is on weekends and the day before Mothers Day--! So I strolled into Trader Joe's, also jammed, then drove down the beach and walked around a bit. Older son had been trying to video-call, but had missed me and I decided to try to get him. I was delighted to do so easily, parked at the beach, via something called "Duo" on my phone. Talked to him, adorable little K., and N. It still seems incredible to me.
On the beach, there were lots of teenagers playing volley ball and so on, the boys with hairless chests and the girls in teeny-weeny bikinis, but where in the hell were Elva Gruhler and Michael Keating and John Fessler and Peggy Hartman?  I'll have to look on a different beach, I guess.

T.O.P.S. And Archduke Ferdinand

Kimball, then home to change for T.O.P.S.
Okay, now I'm just about convinced my body is telling me to stay the hell at 128. I've been that--with two tenths of a pound up or down variations at times--for about seven or eight weeks. I'm fine with it, but I don't know how much longer I can endure the grindingly boring meetings. Yesterday's was a killer, meandering here, there, and everywhere with abandon.
Home for breakfast, then to Sprouts for grapes and berries. I had just been told by the fish guy he had no more salmon when a man came up to me and said, "well, there you are again." This wasn't a vagrant--you can always tell and they don't hang out at upscale grocery stores, anyway--but I had no idea who it was. He wore a jacket that said "Bob" and the thought went through my mind that it was Diane's husband, whom I had talked with at the Sierra Club. Didn't look a bit like him, except they're both tall. His wife then came up and he introduced her as Carolyn.
Well, it turned out they're a couple I see every morning in the park with their two dogs, Hazel and Sophie (he-he). We had a nice chat; they just moved here from L.A. and we both deplored how provincial the library is here. Bob has donated a lot of books on boating to the system here. Why so? When we exchanged cards, I saw that his says, "Bob Singer, USCG Licensed Master," so I assume he has something to do with boats and, I guess, the Coast Guard. Anyway, we chatted for a good twenty minutes or so, then said we'd see each other this morning, which I trust we will.
When I was at the 99 Cent  store, Betty called and we talked as I walked around putting this and that in my basket. Said goodbye, I went home for lunch, then took off for town.
Walked the walk and read for awhile an interesting book on the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand of Austria, which precipitated World War I. I didn't realize his wife was killed, too, nor did I know what date it had happened: June 28, the birthday of both my older son and older great-grandson--gulp! However, that was in 1914, so I won't obsess over it.

Recipes and Arthritis

Kimball was again pleasantly warm--or rather, less unpleasantly chilly. After breakfast, I started in on still more chores I've neglected for too long. I got more pictures put in some albums--I still have plenty to go--and put more binders away. I also tackled organizing my recipes into the new binder I just bought, made for that purpose. What kills me is that I hardly ever use recipes, as almost exclusively, I eat fresh veggies, fish and chicken, which I prepare simply.  As for company, I haven't had any for six months, when I had that little dinner party with Ellen, Suzanne, and Jim from my class.  Also, I can find millions of recipes on the Internet. Nevertheless, I like having them in print.
Called Betty to hear about Janie's funeral.  It was heavily attended, which didn't surprise  me, but there didn't seem to be many '54 grads there. We talked about this and sadly concluded that a lot  of them have already been to a funeral--their own.
Betty said Carolyn was going to call me, so I called her first. I was surprised and troubled to hear that she's been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in her hands. She just turned 50 two months ago, so this is bad news. Carolyn asked if my mother had had it in her hands, but I don't recall she had any but the diffused kind, mildly here and there, and only when she was elderly.
On a happier note, Carolyn invited me to her daughter, Claire's, graduation (from elementary to middle school) on June 8, then a celebratory dinner after. I accepted on the spot and she'll invite Ellen and Greg, too. Betty hopes to be there, too, so whether we'll get together in June is iffy. I want to be in Jersey at the end and she may still be here. We'll see.
I called grandson Joel that I'll be coming. I may or may not stay over at his house for a night or two. That has to be worked out, too.
Finally got out after lunch and my town walk felt so good.  Chatted with library branch manger Lori for a bit, read for maybe a half hour a book purporting that Hitler was gay, but who gives a damn and it was a plodding translation anyway, so I left.

Lunch and Scones

Not a bad day. It was considerably warmer walking Kimball, so I didn't bundle up as usual. Met Diane with Irene and we chatted a bit about the presentation. Also walked for a while with Shelley and her little dog, Joey--they're occasional park walkers.
Home for breakfast, then to Sprouts for blueberries and strawberries. Tidied up a bit, then made my lunch, a big salad, natch, with Romaine, tomatoes, grilled chicken, feta, and grapes. I added a nice little single-serve bottle of Chardonnay, plus a disposable fork and napkin, and took off.  I drove to the museum, my usual, but then walked up Santa Clara Street to Plaza Park, where Diane had suggested we meet.
Plaza Park features a huge, hundreds of years old, historic tree, plus picnic tables with umbrellas. This was wonderful--much more comfortable than Mission Park. We ate, drank our wine surreptitiously (which was fun because it's a no-no; Diane had brought some, also), and had a fine time talking of this and that. We decided we should do this every Wednesday, so will meet again next week.
After a leisurely time, we parted, and I walked to the library. Stayed for a bit reading William Saroyan's son's book on what an SOB his father was, but lost interest quickly. I went over to look at the new books and saw a tell-all by some British female journalist and took it out.
Darn, that means I have too many items waiting to be read. I've now taken out of the library and have at home the aforementioned, plus the bio of Maxwell Perkins, Slaughterhouse Five, and Molly's Game (saw the movie a while ago).  I also have out Bill Bryson's CD of the year 1927 (I love Bill). In addition, I took home three books from the BCNN meeting exchange, which I haven't even opened.  I'll have to turn my attention to this shortly.
When I got home yesterday, I found a package on my doorstep. It contained four beautiful scones from Mike's and Paula's college friend, Sarah H. She's an avid baker (and photographer) and we're friends on Facebook. I admired a picture of the scones on FB and she sent some to me! I gave two to Jim, assistant manager here, then rang Suzanne's bell to give her one. She was very appreciative (she can use the calories) and we sat and chatted for a bit.
As for me, I ate half of one scone. As I had expected, it was excellent--just sweet enough and of a wonderful texture. However, I wasn't about to keep the rest of  them around as a constant temptation and I was satisfied with just a few bites. 

California Conservancy Trail

Kind of a slow-pokey day after Kimball and breakfast and before the Sierra Club/Coastal Conservancy Trail talk at 7:00 pm.
Did a single load of wash, then called my Florida brother, Larry. Talked to him, his daughter, Elaine, and grandson, Nickie, who's now twenty, incredibly enough; he was in elementary school the last time I saw him. Wrote out Mother's Day cards and sent them off. Went to WinCo  for salad fixings, as I'm meeting Diane for lunch in the park today. Did various and sundry on the computer and, at loose ends, even tried to take a nap on the couch.
For some reason, I felt a little down. I think it may have been because I regretted substituting the evening presentation for Noreen's and my movie and dinner outing, which we postponed until next Tuesday. However, I shook that off later and drove to town.
Reversed my usual museum to library route, parking at the library and walking the other way. I stayed reading for an hour or so and by that time, it was time for the presentation. I walked in and immediately saw Rachel, who was pleased I had come. Shortly, Diane (whom I see at Kimball every day) and her husband came in. She promptly went over to talk to someone (she's an active member of the Sierra Club and a serious hiker) and Bob sat down with me.
What a neat guy! He had been with 3M until he retired, but said he was bored to death, so took on some kind of technical position with the fire department. He does all their statistical stuff and works up the material the chief presents to City Council. Sounds like something I'd do anything to avoid, but each to his own.
Diane came over to sit with us and the presentation started. It was by and about the two young women (Rachel's daughter and her friend), who  are both PhD. candidates and work together in the California Marine Science lab. They got a grant which allowed them to hike for 96 days on the California Conservancy Trail (CAT), from Oregon to the southernmost part of California, carrying their tents and backpacks. They were very engaging, using slides, videos, and anecdotes about their trip. One of these days, I'd like to get back to real hiking again, but not, of course, as ambitious as .
Got home a bit after 7:00 and, having skipped dinner, had some fruit and nuts.

Widder Lunch

Did the usual in the morning. After breakfast, I went out to get two more Mother's Day cards and some blueberries, which I finally found at Ralph's.
Rachel E., of the Poinsettia chapter of Toastmasters, sent an e-mail to members inviting them to attend a Sierra Club presentation by her daughter and another young woman about their trip on the Pacific Coast Walk from Oregon to Mexico in 96 days. That's this evening at 5:30 and I was anxious to go, so I called Noreen (we had had a movie/dinner date) to see if she would want, also. She didn't, but assured me it was okay to skip the  outing, which we'll do next week.
Dressed for the widder lunch and got there just about noon. I was delighted to see my friend from T.O.P.S., Jana.  Her husband died only about six weeks ago, after a very long illness. I suggested the group to her and clearly, she enjoys it. It was a small, but convivial, group with seven woman and one man, Greg, who's also newly widowed. Susan lent me a book called Widowed, by a man, but I haven't looked  at it yet.
Drove directly to town after and took my usual walk. Sat for a short time and read, but didn't feel like it for long and when I got back to the car it was only a bit after 2:00. I was kind of at loose ends, so drove to the other end of town and looked in a few stores. Back home for a shrimp dinner and that was that.

Doing My Docent Duties At Dudley

(I love alliteration!)
One never knows when something interesting will turn up; see below.
Followed the usual Sunday routine, then did a few minor chores before I finally turned my attention to the "script" for my Dudley House tour guide stint.
I have a bad habit of procrastinating and I did it in spades this time. I hadn't conducted a tour for months, plus Lynn wanted me to add on the rest of the downstairs. I had only done the first three before: porch, dining room, parlor. This included, in addition, the front  bedroom, the bathroom, the back bedroom, and the kitchen--all crammed with interesting artifacts and history.
However, it turned out okay. I had looked over what was written and whatever I didn't remember, I'd quickly read or even fabricate a bit. We actually had a lot of people come in; I think the final count was forty or a few more.
Lynn was her usual flibbertigibbet self. Gawd, she can be a pain in the ass, rushing around, gabbling  wildly, and bossing people around. There were two other docents there whom I hadn't met before. Talk about long in the tooth--they both looked and acted old enough to be my mother. However, it was actually pretty enjoyable, as I had some good groups. It was well after closing time, which is 4:00 pm, when I left, but that was okay. I went home, changed, then took off for town.
I had every intention of doing my regular walk, but I noticed a crowd in front of the mission church, St. Bonaventure, and went over to investigate. They were looking at the beautiful new mural, just unveiled, in front of  the church. The church door was open and I decided to go in and look at
the altar and so on. I like old churches a lot, as long as I don't have to pretend I think there's something supernatural about them.
But what was this? The side door opens onto a garden and there were people milling around in there. I went in to see what was going on and it was a reception, I suppose to mark the unveiling of the mural. Hey, crackers, cheese, and other nibbles on tables and a wine bar, besides. Could I resist? Certainly not and I helped myself to some appetizers, was served a glass of white, and sat happily under a tree watching the attendees.
This the kind of unexpected treat I so greatly enjoy: I was an interloper, but a benign one and I was harming no one. It seems to me life offers lots of these little favors; you just have to be open enough--and maybe bold  enough--to pursue them.
I had forgotten Janie was Miss Longport of 1951. Here's her obit:
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/obituaries/jane-a-martin-nee-moylan/article_c379513b-b739-584b-8420-74f8c292dd52.html

Janie and The Class of 1954

Kimballed, breakfasted, newspapered, as ever. I know I did something else after that, but I'm darned if I can remember what. Went out to get Mother's Day cards for my daughter, daughters-in-law, and this year, decided to send Betty and my sisters-in-law one, just to tell them I love them. Got all those and sent off the ones to Asia; I'll bet anything they'll be late, though.
I wrote a note to Charles, Janie's husband (now widower), then I took out my year book to look at Janie's picture. There she was, a girl with a big smile and eyes that sparkled. I looked up in my blog the last time I saw her and it was seven years ago. She was not terribly well even then, and used a cane to get around. Looking over The Spartan of 1954, I was again startled to see how many of our class have died and I'm sure there are some I don't know about. I always think of Thomas Wolfe's "Oh, lost, and by the wind grieved/Ghost, come back again."
On this somber note, I called Mary Hoffman, Janies's sister-in-law to extend my condolences and we had a long, good talk. She mentioned her cousin, Mary Durney Peterson, who now has Alzheimer's or some form of dementia. Charlie Peterson, who was a friend of my Pat, died several years ago. I told Mary we'll get together when I'm there in June.
After lunch, I did my usual in town. I happened to see a corner bookcase or kind of shelving in wood, very attractive, and I bought it for twenty-five bucks. It looks  great in the living room and I'm still rearranging things.
I forgot to record my BP yesterday; it was 93/67. That's low, I know, but not too low. I feel fine, as ever.

Cinco de Mayo

Kimball, then T.O.P.S.  I weighed in at 127.9, two tenths of a pound heavier than last week--but who cares? The meeting was the usual: one tenth fairly engaging and the rest boring crap, but I'm used to it, I guess. My niece, Joan, who lives in Manhattan called after I weighed in, but before the meeting started, so I had time to talk. She had seen on Facebook that I was planning a trip to NJ in June and wanted to know if she and Jim could come down to Betty's to see both of us. Yeah, sure, but let me make my plans and not have to worry about how to fit people in, or whatever.  I'll get back to her. Didn't have breakfast until10:30, then did this and that on the laptop. Went out for lettuce, cucumbers, and cauliflower.
After lunch, I just made the decision not to do the town walk because I wanted to look into planes and trains. What I'd like to do it fly into Philly, then take a train to Virginia to see Jim. I'm not sure if I can get it from the airport--think I'll call niece Chrissy, Jim's daughter, and get her advice.
Went to WinCo for different things and ran into Gillian, Ellen's R.E. agent, and her partner, Kelly; had a nice chat with them. Betty called while I was there to tell me Janie Moylan Martin has died. Janie was in our HSHS class, so we go a long way back. Damn. I'll send Charles a note.
I barely had time to get to Briggs School for the cinco de Mayo fiesta, but got there and met Ellen. We stayed while her third grade class danced--beautiful children in colorful outfits--then cut out. Had dinner at Jasmine Thai and enjoyed fresh rolls (not of dough, but veggies wrapped in lettuce), chicken satay, and crab rangoon. I enjoyed a Singha beer with it and El had Thai iced tea.
Got home and was watching my usual episode of Frasier when Aline called.  I had forgotten she stays up very late; it was midnight by the time we hung up, which would have had me reeling, but was fine for her. I told her of my plan to visit Jersey in June and we happily discussed it.

Lunch With Noreen

Things continue to buzz along, I'm happy to say. Walked Kimball (and got back home at 7:15!), then the usual computer stuff and so on. Went out to various supermarkets for shrimp, blueberries, and other goodies, then changed to meet Noreen at The Cave. This time, although I was a few minutes early, she was there already. She insisted on picking up the tab, but I ordered only two appetizers and put her Chardonnay on my card, so we may have broken even, but that's fine.
We had a good time getting to know each other better. Noreen had a somewhat somber childhood, plus a bad marriage and other family problems. Her only sibling, though, her brother, rose above that pretty well and became a anethesiologist; he's in his eighties now and is retired. Noreen herself was an R.N. in a hospital for  many years.
She insisted on picking up the tab, but I ordered only two modest appetizers and I put her wine on my card, so it probably evened out. As we were eating, the young chef, Alex (he looks about 14) came over to ask if we liked our meals. Yes, indeed, and I mentioned that The Cave's Facebook page had featured some new entrees of his that looked wonderful. He thanked me, but said they're only available after 4:00, as they're dinners. He no sooner went back to the kitchen when Noreen and I decided to go to a later showing of the movie on Tuesday, then go to The Cave for dinner.
We parted at almost 3:00 and I drove directly to town and did the usual walk. Sat for about an hour and read Reeve Lindbergh's book about her parents and early life Under A Wing.  (I've read it before, but enjoy many books more than once).
On my way home, Ellen called and we firmed up plans for me to meet her at school for the cinco de Mayo festival; her third-graders will sing. We decided to go to dinner after at Jasmine Thai--hey, why not be international foodies? We also discussed Mother's Day and I suggested the Aloha Restaurant, which is right on the beach. It's true a man was murdered there last month, but it was a random act.  Homeless man stuck a knife in a young father's neck, seemingly with no provocation. The young man's five-year-old daughter was sitting on his lap.
I have T.O.P.S. this morning and am pretty sure I haven't lost; in fact, I feel I've gained, as I've been going out a lot.  However, I'll be okay with a small gain, as I know it'll balance out later.

Doggies And Cece

Good grief, I'm getting earlier and earlier with my morning walk. I used to leave for Kimball between 7:00 and 7:15; yesterday, I was home by 6:40.  However, no prob, as I like it either way.
Had breakfast, then changed for the BCNN meeting. Sat with Doris and Sherry, as  usual; neither Carole nor Sue were there. I'm really not sure why I bothered. Whoever the program director is, she's a dud. Yet again, there was a doggy presentation, complete with two speakers, slides, and videos from a "no kill" outfit called Best Friends or something.
Now, I don't want to  see any living creature hurt, but the animal thing is not my bag. Of course, current-day California is probably the most pet-oriented society in history, or so it seems to me. I'm not, but I didn't want to be rude and walk out, so I endured and we didn't get out of the thing until almost 11:30.
Changed for the second time and spent some time assembling my docent info for Sunday.  Prepped some veggies, including spaghetti squash, tomato and onion roast, and others. Lunched, then drove  to town and did the walk. Stopped at Smart 'n' Final for grapes, salad dressing, and a nice little jar of oysters. 
I met Cece at The Wicked Brew at 7:00 and gave her her chimes. We had a glass of wine--Cece insisted on treating me--and talked and talked. We don't have an enormous amount in common, but I like her a lot. She's 59, never married, but dates, lives with her brother, and has worked for Ventura County for 17 years.  She had been raised Catholic, but is now an "evangelical minister" with one of the many off-shoot churches that seem to spring up her. I didn't get home until almost 9:00, but was glad I had gone.
When I got up just now, I saw I had missed a Facebook video call from older son--at 12:30 am! I wonder if that's a mistake, but will try to get back to him.

Bummer

Yesterday was a...yes, a true bummer.
After Kimball, breakfast, and doing a load of wash, I showered, washed my hair, and dressed to meet Noreen at the movie. We were planning to go to The Cave after and I was looking forward to it. I had told  Noreen the movie was at 12:40 and I'd probably get there a bit early, so I walked in at 12:30.
All right, I'm going to cut right to the chase and roll this up: I waited and waited and waited, called Noreen and left messages several times, didn't see her, and finally left after 45 minutes. Had to do something at Office Max nearby, then went back to the movie, even asked one of the employes if he had seen her, no luck. At this point, I had left four messages on her phone and I was getting very worried. I knew she wouldn't have just blown it off, but maybe she had fallen or was sick...?  I actually would have gone to her house, but I didn't have her address.
Drove to town, but just didn't feel like the walk, as it was overcast, chilly, and spitting rain. Went home and was about to see if Fern had Noreen's address, but then the phone rang. Noreen said she had gotten to the movie about 12:25, waited in the lobby, but then thought I might be in the movie theatre itself, so went in. She didn't see me, but thought I might come in--
What?  I would never have done that, but she honestly thought I might have. How explain the four phone messages (with the last one, I was frantic)? Well, the message machine is only on her landline; she doesn't know how to program her cell, which is an old flip-cover; plus, she doesn't always turn it on. AAGH!
Anyway, she was very apologetic--we must have missed each other by mere minutes--but I told  her not to worry about it. We made a date for lunch at The Cave tomorrow, which will be fun. I wasn't crazy about seeing the movie, anyway, so no real harm done.
Got an e-mail from Fern, asking me to run for office in Toastmasters. I'd rather do that than hang by my toes for three days, but just barely, so I'll beg off.
Went to Jessica Nails and got a manicure. Boy, the ol' hands look good; ol', yes, but good.

Activities

I thought it would be a quiet day, but it turned out pretty active.  It could also be called The Taking Back Day.
After Kimball and breakfast, I took back 1.) a pair of  tights I had bought in a size S/M which were just a little S;  2.) the ink cartridge that was Canon and on sale, but doesn't fit my printer; 3.) one of the two pairs of sunglasses I bought because the damn thing had a price sticker on it that I couldn't get off.
After that, I went to three different stores looking for blueberries. I used to be addicted to nicotine, but now I can't spend an evening without blueberries. WinCo had them and I bought three packages and one of blackberries. I always say I don't like kiwi fruit, but I bought some because I think I can change  my mind about them. Also got chicken, spinach, and two kinds of squash, butternut and acorn.
In the parking lot, I ran into Suze Montgomery, chair of the Ventura Council for Seniors and a mover and shaker generally in Ventura County. She said she was speaking at the City Council last night on the homeless situation. A few weeks ago, a homeless man, obviously deranged, was charged with a horrible murder, seemingly at random, of a young father in the Aloha restaurant.  It's right on the beach and I've been there several times. Suze invited me to come to the meeting and I said I'd try (but see later).
Heard from Connie K. about the venue for my impersonation of Caroline Dudley. It's at the county fair in August and I now find out it's a contest. It requires a ten-minute talk--memorized, of course--and the appropriate costume and so on. Boy, it's going to take a lot of work, but I'm game. I also must bone up on my Dudley House docent talk.  I'm scheduled for Sunday and Lynn asked me to do the entire first floor; I've only done the first few rooms before. Not sure if I can do it very smoothly, but if there's a problem, I'll just have to wing it.
Got wonderful news in a phone call: The plan is for Mike and his two girls to visit their aunt in New Mexico this summer and I've been invited to join them! Happy day--don't have to ask me twice.
I called Noreen and we firmed up our movie and The Cave excursion for today. We'll see Love, Simon, which looks a little sappy--boy thinks he's "different," then discovers he's gay--but the others were either horror movies or more even horrible--about war and how humanely we always conduct it; we're the good guys, natch.
Ate a sketchy dinner early (all veggies), then took off for City Hall. I thought it was odd the council chamber was dark when I got there at 5:45 for the 6:00 meeting, and asked a passing ranger about it. She went to inquire, then came back to tell me it was postponed to Wednesday. Oh, well, no big deal; I just went to the library for the second time and got a new CD to listen to.