Got a few chores done that were hanging because I'm the world's worst procrastinator. Called the Airporter to reserve the shuttle, made a hair (color and cut) appointment, and texted gardener Tony to ask if he'd plug up the bumblebee holes at my house. He texted back okay and that he'd start the work today. Now I've got to turn my attention to the damn on-line traffic school.
Walked a short one in the neighborhood, stopping at Von's for lettuce and grapes. I wanted to use my new clay garlic baker, so after lunch, I prepared several cloves. Decided to roast onions in the clay baker at the same time, although they're supposed to take different temps. Revved up the oven and did the both and they turned out delish. Caught a bus to town and took the Rock Hudson book back to the library. Found the new book by Bob Woodward, Fear/Trump In The White House and stayed for a bit reading it.
Gawd. It is worse than I thought.
If anyone needs further proof of the imbeciles in D.C.--oh, not just Trump and not just the repubs, I've read about the Clintons and their mob, too--I hope they read this. It's horrifying. I honestly believe this empire is collapsing and will be gone sooner or later.
It was after five when I got home and I just had some cauliflower, then left to get the bus to Humor & Drama Toastmasters. I had been debating with myself all day as to whether I wanted to go or not, but I'm glad I did because it turned out to be fun. I had begged off presenting, but changed my mind when I got there and recited three of my short poems. They were received well, in fact, Judi asked if I'd e-mail them to her as she wanted to read, not just listen. Raul did a talk on meeting his first wife (she died several years ago and he remarried) in Mexico City where they were both born; it was very engaging. I was evaluater for Celina, who spoke on "Energy" and I gave her high marks.
Raul dropped me off at home about 9:00, late for me, but I was glad I had gone.
Friday, May 31, 2019
Thursday, May 30, 2019
Happy Hour And Socks
The usual first things in the morning and after breakfast, I stripped the bed, re-made, and washed the sheets and a load of whites. Yes, I use bleach for this, so shoot me.
Walked Victoria to Telephone (1.3) to pick up a few items; took the bus back. Showered and washed my hair, and changed to go to Happy Hour at Diane's.
Nancy and Carolyn go there and we sat down to what was essentially dinner. Diane had made two delicious soups: pasta and veggie, and spinach. Nancy brought a chocolate mayonnaise* sheet cake with chocolate icing, everything yummy.
Nancy also brought several pair of the socks she was knitting (see below). I took pictures and will send to Diane and Carolyn. Later, Diane's friend and fellow Silvercrest resident, Paula, joined us; she's also a knitter and is in the knitting club there.
Paula's an interesting person. She had worked with the Franciscan priests in Africa in her youth. However, she's now Episcopalian--said she left the Catholic Church because of pedophile priests.**
After finishing off my two bottles of Blue Moon, I indulged in some Chardonnay, so had a little buzz on, but since I wasn't driving, then was okay. We didn't leave until well after 5:00 and I walked to the Goodwill on Telephone to pick up a little garlic oven (it was 50% off day), then bused to Victoria. Walked home from there (1.2) and didn't get in until 7:30, once again, but it was a fun day.
*Using ingredients like mayonnaise in place of others seems to have arisen during wartime, when things like butter and eggs were scarce.
**Why a whole belief system, such as Catholicism, would rest on the conduct of its representatives, makes no sense, it seems to me; its tenets are either valid or not. I learned that in St. James and it has always rung true.
Walked Victoria to Telephone (1.3) to pick up a few items; took the bus back. Showered and washed my hair, and changed to go to Happy Hour at Diane's.
Nancy and Carolyn go there and we sat down to what was essentially dinner. Diane had made two delicious soups: pasta and veggie, and spinach. Nancy brought a chocolate mayonnaise* sheet cake with chocolate icing, everything yummy.
Nancy also brought several pair of the socks she was knitting (see below). I took pictures and will send to Diane and Carolyn. Later, Diane's friend and fellow Silvercrest resident, Paula, joined us; she's also a knitter and is in the knitting club there.
Paula's an interesting person. She had worked with the Franciscan priests in Africa in her youth. However, she's now Episcopalian--said she left the Catholic Church because of pedophile priests.**
After finishing off my two bottles of Blue Moon, I indulged in some Chardonnay, so had a little buzz on, but since I wasn't driving, then was okay. We didn't leave until well after 5:00 and I walked to the Goodwill on Telephone to pick up a little garlic oven (it was 50% off day), then bused to Victoria. Walked home from there (1.2) and didn't get in until 7:30, once again, but it was a fun day.
*Using ingredients like mayonnaise in place of others seems to have arisen during wartime, when things like butter and eggs were scarce.
**Why a whole belief system, such as Catholicism, would rest on the conduct of its representatives, makes no sense, it seems to me; its tenets are either valid or not. I learned that in St. James and it has always rung true.
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Santa Barbara And Betty
Got up at 6:30, followed my routine, showered, ate, dressed, and took off for SB. Three buses later, I rang Betty's door at my usual 11:30. We chatted for a bit, then walked to the mall and Lure, one of my favorites, both there and in Ventura.
I was charmed to hear our young server's name was Declan; that's the name of my nephew's one-year-old. (I think it has Irish roots.) Tim, now 52, is one of the older parents in our family, but my own older son, who will be 60 in June is the old-Dad champion: his first and only is five years old.
After, Betty said she wanted to go to Macy's, which is next door to Lure. Her reasons were garbled and confusing: There seems to have been problems with her Macy's card, or not-card, or whatever the hell it was. Anyway, we happened to find the manager, a very friendly and courteous young man. I believe he understood that Betty gets mentally lost now and then, but he got some others involved, and there seems to have been a resolution of some kind, at least to her satisfaction.
Betty wanted to write some thank-you notes to people who had helped in the sale of her house and she asked me to suggest wording, which I did, and wrote out for her. We then sat on her patio and talked.
I was pleased to get a call from gardener Tony, who looked at the overgrown bush and other gardening needs at my house in Jersey and gave me what I think is a fair estimate, so I told him to go ahead.
There was cake and coffee at 2:00 at Betty's complex and I went with her to it. Just stayed a few minutes, then we said goodbye and I walked to the bus. Got the 3:37 back to Ventura, disembarked in town and walked a bit. Home after 6:00.
I was charmed to hear our young server's name was Declan; that's the name of my nephew's one-year-old. (I think it has Irish roots.) Tim, now 52, is one of the older parents in our family, but my own older son, who will be 60 in June is the old-Dad champion: his first and only is five years old.
After, Betty said she wanted to go to Macy's, which is next door to Lure. Her reasons were garbled and confusing: There seems to have been problems with her Macy's card, or not-card, or whatever the hell it was. Anyway, we happened to find the manager, a very friendly and courteous young man. I believe he understood that Betty gets mentally lost now and then, but he got some others involved, and there seems to have been a resolution of some kind, at least to her satisfaction.
Betty wanted to write some thank-you notes to people who had helped in the sale of her house and she asked me to suggest wording, which I did, and wrote out for her. We then sat on her patio and talked.
I was pleased to get a call from gardener Tony, who looked at the overgrown bush and other gardening needs at my house in Jersey and gave me what I think is a fair estimate, so I told him to go ahead.
There was cake and coffee at 2:00 at Betty's complex and I went with her to it. Just stayed a few minutes, then we said goodbye and I walked to the bus. Got the 3:37 back to Ventura, disembarked in town and walked a bit. Home after 6:00.
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Pokey Monday
After an active Sunday, yesterday was kind of pokey. I slept late, as I recorded, and spent time on this laptop. After breakfast, I did various and sundry--so mundane, I can't even remember what some of them were. My brother, Jimmy (we always called him Jimmy), who's 94, called and said he had tried to call Betty, but thought he may have the wrong number. While we talked, she called him, so I guess it went through. Jim called me back and we chatted a bit. He commiserated about his forgetfulness, but I assured him it was just normal aging (although what do I know?) He said he had my number and those of his other siblings on a piece of paper and I suggested he ask his daughter to put them into his phone. It occurred to me later that he may not be able to type the names in to call up the numbers, though.
Cut up the gigantic cauliflower I had bought at WinCo, added seasonings and put the florets into the slow cooker. Smooched up garlic with my new garlic press--which is okay, I guess, but not ideal--and did some other food prep.
I was actually a little nervous about driving, but wanted to overcome that, so I drove to Smart 'n' Final for blueberries, ground turkey, and imitation crab meat. I became more comfortable with it, so drove to the Goodwill near Diane's, just to look around. By then, it was 4:00, so I drove to her place
to drop off my Blue Moon, in preparation for Wednesday's Happy Hour, which we'll have at her place. I stayed to visit for an hour or so, then said goodbye.
Today: Santa Barbara.
Cut up the gigantic cauliflower I had bought at WinCo, added seasonings and put the florets into the slow cooker. Smooched up garlic with my new garlic press--which is okay, I guess, but not ideal--and did some other food prep.
I was actually a little nervous about driving, but wanted to overcome that, so I drove to Smart 'n' Final for blueberries, ground turkey, and imitation crab meat. I became more comfortable with it, so drove to the Goodwill near Diane's, just to look around. By then, it was 4:00, so I drove to her place
to drop off my Blue Moon, in preparation for Wednesday's Happy Hour, which we'll have at her place. I stayed to visit for an hour or so, then said goodbye.
Today: Santa Barbara.
Monday, May 27, 2019
Botanic Garden
Good grief, I just got up at 7:15! That's because I didn't go to bed until after 10, because...
...I was feeling a little low and moping around when Stella called about 10 am. Back from the Mayo Clinic (she went on a Road Scholar jaunt), she asked if we could meet for brunch or something. I had just had breakfast, so suggested lunch and, as it turned out, she had been at the Mission for mass, so said she'd pick me up.
By the time she did, it was almost noon and, after trying Two Trees and another place, both of which were jammed, we went to Rincon and had a good lunch and good time. We then went to the Botanic Garden.
What a wonderfully scenic--and invigorating--activity! I climbed the almost vertical stone steps to the first level, while Stella went on the path. I then joined her and we continued up, up, up to the top.
We then walked a bit higher and over to the large cross that--some think miraculously--escaped the fire which had destroyed the rest of the garden. It's still being worked on to restore it in some areas.
We finally had our fill and walked down, down, down to Stella's car. At this point, her friend, Robin, called and asked if we could meet for Happy Hour.
Stella asked if that was all right with me and I said, "Oh, no, no, it's after 4:00 and I don't do such wild things"--NOT! So we told Robin we'd meet her at Pacific, which we did.
Robin is an interesting person. Divorced, no kids, just turned 70, and got back from Pakistan last week. She travels constantly. How so? Because she retired as an airplane mechanic and gets free air fare.
It just boggles my mind that that was her career. I asked how she got into that and she said she had just graduated from college, but didn't want to go into anything mundane. She saw an ad for a course in mechanics, took it, then took more, concentrating on planes. I don't know why I was so amazed--after all, there were lots of female plane mechanics during WW II.
Anyway, Robin is on the somewhat flamboyant side, but not offensively so. She's very talkative and articulate and was wearing a long, flowing white skirt in a kind of homespun fabric, with a lovely Pakistani overblouse, and a long, filmy scarf. Sounds kind of off-putting, but no, she looked great. By the way, we ate on the patio at Pacific and Robin brought 90-pound Susie with her. A friend? No, a golden retriever.
Anyway, we were there for almost two hours, talking and laughing and having a ball. By the time we left, it was after 6:00. Robin and I exchanged cards and we said goodbye. Stella asked if I still wanted go to WinCo. I did, we did, and I was able to get the heavier things--a huge cauliflower, two pounds of frozen peaches, and a sack of onions--that are difficult for me to carry when I take the bus.
Incredibly, it was 8:30 before I got home (I'm getting to be a dirty stay-out, as we used to say) and I stayed up with Frazier and blueberries until after 10. But it was a good, full, and interesting day, and it certainly lifted me out of my low mood.
...I was feeling a little low and moping around when Stella called about 10 am. Back from the Mayo Clinic (she went on a Road Scholar jaunt), she asked if we could meet for brunch or something. I had just had breakfast, so suggested lunch and, as it turned out, she had been at the Mission for mass, so said she'd pick me up.
By the time she did, it was almost noon and, after trying Two Trees and another place, both of which were jammed, we went to Rincon and had a good lunch and good time. We then went to the Botanic Garden.
What a wonderfully scenic--and invigorating--activity! I climbed the almost vertical stone steps to the first level, while Stella went on the path. I then joined her and we continued up, up, up to the top.
We then walked a bit higher and over to the large cross that--some think miraculously--escaped the fire which had destroyed the rest of the garden. It's still being worked on to restore it in some areas.
We finally had our fill and walked down, down, down to Stella's car. At this point, her friend, Robin, called and asked if we could meet for Happy Hour.
Stella asked if that was all right with me and I said, "Oh, no, no, it's after 4:00 and I don't do such wild things"--NOT! So we told Robin we'd meet her at Pacific, which we did.
Robin is an interesting person. Divorced, no kids, just turned 70, and got back from Pakistan last week. She travels constantly. How so? Because she retired as an airplane mechanic and gets free air fare.
It just boggles my mind that that was her career. I asked how she got into that and she said she had just graduated from college, but didn't want to go into anything mundane. She saw an ad for a course in mechanics, took it, then took more, concentrating on planes. I don't know why I was so amazed--after all, there were lots of female plane mechanics during WW II.
Anyway, Robin is on the somewhat flamboyant side, but not offensively so. She's very talkative and articulate and was wearing a long, flowing white skirt in a kind of homespun fabric, with a lovely Pakistani overblouse, and a long, filmy scarf. Sounds kind of off-putting, but no, she looked great. By the way, we ate on the patio at Pacific and Robin brought 90-pound Susie with her. A friend? No, a golden retriever.
Anyway, we were there for almost two hours, talking and laughing and having a ball. By the time we left, it was after 6:00. Robin and I exchanged cards and we said goodbye. Stella asked if I still wanted go to WinCo. I did, we did, and I was able to get the heavier things--a huge cauliflower, two pounds of frozen peaches, and a sack of onions--that are difficult for me to carry when I take the bus.
Incredibly, it was 8:30 before I got home (I'm getting to be a dirty stay-out, as we used to say) and I stayed up with Frazier and blueberries until after 10. But it was a good, full, and interesting day, and it certainly lifted me out of my low mood.
Sunday, May 26, 2019
Movie And Metaphysics
I didn't walk Kimball--without a car, those days are gone--, but did to Smart 'n' Final and back, which is twice as long at miles. Chopped up my tomato, onion, garlic, oil concoction, roasted and stored in the fridge. Showered, dressed, had lunch, then set off for the bus. When I got to the shopping center, Diane was just walking up. We continued on to the Regency, paid for our tickets, and settled in.
After the interminable ads--there must have been at least twenty--The Mustang came on. It wasn't one of the best I've ever seen by a long shot, but was reasonably entertaining. It was based on the real life programs in many of the western states of training prison inmates to tame wild horses--of which, incredibly, according to the movie, there are 100,000 roaming around in the wild.
After, we went to The Cave for beer and chips. There was a guitarist there who set up right next to us (the place doesn't have a stage) and he and Diane carried on a long, long conversation on metaphysical topics, all of which bores me to death. They exchanged info and will get in touch with each other.
We finally left at 6:15 and got the bus. We were amazed and horrified to learn that city buses don't run tomorrow, Memorial Day. How could that possibly be? People who work at hospitals and so on may rely on public transportation to get to work. I can't believe it, so will check further.
Got off at Telephone and walked the mile and a half up Victoria to my place. Betty had called and left a message saying there was a killer storm on its way to Ventura and to be careful. I called her back and she said it was actually up in the mountains. I called Ellen and was sorry that she still has a cold and cough; she's going to call the doctor again.
After the interminable ads--there must have been at least twenty--The Mustang came on. It wasn't one of the best I've ever seen by a long shot, but was reasonably entertaining. It was based on the real life programs in many of the western states of training prison inmates to tame wild horses--of which, incredibly, according to the movie, there are 100,000 roaming around in the wild.
After, we went to The Cave for beer and chips. There was a guitarist there who set up right next to us (the place doesn't have a stage) and he and Diane carried on a long, long conversation on metaphysical topics, all of which bores me to death. They exchanged info and will get in touch with each other.
We finally left at 6:15 and got the bus. We were amazed and horrified to learn that city buses don't run tomorrow, Memorial Day. How could that possibly be? People who work at hospitals and so on may rely on public transportation to get to work. I can't believe it, so will check further.
Got off at Telephone and walked the mile and a half up Victoria to my place. Betty had called and left a message saying there was a killer storm on its way to Ventura and to be careful. I called her back and she said it was actually up in the mountains. I called Ellen and was sorry that she still has a cold and cough; she's going to call the doctor again.
Saturday, May 25, 2019
T.O.P.S And Tomatoes
Cheryl picked me up for T.O.P.S. and the meeting was at least bearable, although long as ever. I went up a pound to 130.8, but that's okay. Lennie (Lenore), who sings with the Trinity Lutheran Chorus, is appearing with them at St. John's on June 7. I thought I'd ask Suzanne if she wants to go, but have changed my mind, as I have the party in Santa Barbara on the 8th and leave for New Mexico on the 10th. (Plans are that we'll spend my last two days there at an AirBnb in Santa Fe--can't wait!)*
Didn't have breakfast until after ten and more or less just hung out after that. I had a problem with getting on infinity (email) and "chatted" with Chrome and Comcast personnel, but it was resolved before long. Diane asked if I'd like to to the the movies today, to see The Mustang. It doesn't look too bad, I guess, so I accepted. We'll go to The Cave after.
Irene from the park texted me, asking why I haven't been there for these many weeks. I called her, told her the story (tickets, selling car, etc.) and asked her to tell the others why I haven't been there. She said she'd call me for lunch and I hope she does; I'd love to see her and Diane again.
Again--or still--I didn't feel completely up to par emotionally. I spent time playing solitaire and a stupid game on the computer. I usually go out right after lunch, but didn't yesterday until about 3:00. Took the bus down Victoria and bought tomatoes to roast, plus mushrooms, then bussed back. I rang Suzanne's bell and she invited me in to look at her pictures from Santa Fe and Taos. Looks great and I know I'll love it.
Didn't have breakfast until after ten and more or less just hung out after that. I had a problem with getting on infinity (email) and "chatted" with Chrome and Comcast personnel, but it was resolved before long. Diane asked if I'd like to to the the movies today, to see The Mustang. It doesn't look too bad, I guess, so I accepted. We'll go to The Cave after.
Irene from the park texted me, asking why I haven't been there for these many weeks. I called her, told her the story (tickets, selling car, etc.) and asked her to tell the others why I haven't been there. She said she'd call me for lunch and I hope she does; I'd love to see her and Diane again.
Again--or still--I didn't feel completely up to par emotionally. I spent time playing solitaire and a stupid game on the computer. I usually go out right after lunch, but didn't yesterday until about 3:00. Took the bus down Victoria and bought tomatoes to roast, plus mushrooms, then bussed back. I rang Suzanne's bell and she invited me in to look at her pictures from Santa Fe and Taos. Looks great and I know I'll love it.
Friday, May 24, 2019
WinCo And The Museum
Didn't get up until 7:15 and dawdled with this and that. After breakfast, I walked to Telephone Road and took a bus to good ol' WinCo.
Boy, I've missed it--it's my favorite supermarket and nearby Von's is a poor substitute. Of course, I couldn't get everything I might have, as I had to be aware of weight. When you're carrying your groceries rather than simply transferring from cart to car, that has to be a consideration.
Got home by buses about noon to find an e-mail from Diane, asking me to work with her on the Bernie Sanders' campaign. I wrote her back a long message, explaining my decline. She thinks Sanders is an anti-war advocate; he isn't--there aren't any aside from 89-year-old Mike Gravel and his candidacy is just a gesture. But, just as people persuaded themselves Obama was a pacifist (!), hope springs eternal, I guess. Anyway, I do respect the fact that she's intelligent and caring.
Cheryl called to ask if I wanted a ride to T.O.P.S. this morning. Nice of her and I accepted. I'll go out and wait at 8:25. After lunch, I hopped on the bus. I no sooner got on than I remembered there was a reception at the museum at 5:30 that I had intended to drop in on. I just strolled around here and there in town before it was time to go, then did. Had a single glass of Chardonnay and a cracker, scanned some of the pictures (actually, it was kind of an exhibit of posters over the years for the Ojai Music Festival), then left.
Again, did get in until 7:00, but it was a good day.
Boy, I've missed it--it's my favorite supermarket and nearby Von's is a poor substitute. Of course, I couldn't get everything I might have, as I had to be aware of weight. When you're carrying your groceries rather than simply transferring from cart to car, that has to be a consideration.
Got home by buses about noon to find an e-mail from Diane, asking me to work with her on the Bernie Sanders' campaign. I wrote her back a long message, explaining my decline. She thinks Sanders is an anti-war advocate; he isn't--there aren't any aside from 89-year-old Mike Gravel and his candidacy is just a gesture. But, just as people persuaded themselves Obama was a pacifist (!), hope springs eternal, I guess. Anyway, I do respect the fact that she's intelligent and caring.
Cheryl called to ask if I wanted a ride to T.O.P.S. this morning. Nice of her and I accepted. I'll go out and wait at 8:25. After lunch, I hopped on the bus. I no sooner got on than I remembered there was a reception at the museum at 5:30 that I had intended to drop in on. I just strolled around here and there in town before it was time to go, then did. Had a single glass of Chardonnay and a cracker, scanned some of the pictures (actually, it was kind of an exhibit of posters over the years for the Ojai Music Festival), then left.
Again, did get in until 7:00, but it was a good day.
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Happy Hour
Things still improving. After being out virtually all day on Monday and Tuesday, I got some nagging little items done yesterday. Called Tony C., the garderner, who apologized that he had been too busy to check out the landscaping at my house and give me an estimate; he said he'd definitely do it this weekend. I texted Eileen to that effect and said I'd also ask Tony if he could plug up the wooden banisters in the back, which bees have made their home.* She suggested I might consider replacing them with plastic ones and I'll think about it.
Assembled the three things I wanted to present to my Happy Hour buddies: an invitation to attend a gathering at the museum on Saturday; Dudley House tour on Sunday (I want to pick up my docent directory and would like to tour the upstairs, which I don't do); and a woman's symposium at the Hyatt, sponsored by the hospital on June 22. I went to this last year and found it informative; a nice touch: it includes breakfast.
I then walked to Smart 'n' Final and picked up three 18 ounce containers of blueberries, plus Romaine. That's one and a third miles and I intended to take the bus back, but waited at the stop for twenty minutes and it didn't come, so I walked back. I was glad to get almost three miles in, as I knew Happy Hour was going to be at the Alehouse Cask, the next block from here.
Nancy called to check where the place was and we chatted about this and that, including our dear young friend (well, it's all relative; 57 is young to us) and sister in Happy Hour jaunts, Carolyn. Her evident confusion and forgetfulness is troubling, but she hasn't given any of us an opening to talk about it.
Got to the place at 4:00 to find Diane there; the other two came shortly. I was displeased to see two women in the easy chair setting by the window, which I had reserved for us. The server seems perfectly indifferent when I mentioned it. I decided not to make a scene, so we just waited until the other two left after a half hour or so, and took our plates and glasses to the area.
Had a good time and we stayed until almost 6:00. However, I simply forgot all about asking if anybody wanted to go to the occasions I mentioned above: I'll see about that later. The van came for Diane, we other three chatted for a few more minutes, then left. I strolled the short distance home, but for some reason, didn't feel like staying in, even though it was after 6:00. Went out, thinking I'd take a bus to East Ventura, but while I was waiting, Betty called and while we talked--oh, correction: she talked, on and on and on and I listened. I then decided not to go elsewhere--it was almost 7:00 by then--and went back home to kick back for the night .
*We had these in the porch railings cum bees on Rosborough Avenue all through my childhood, but to my knowledge, they never stung anybody. My mother often repeated, "If thee will let the bee be, the bee will let thee be" and so it was.
Assembled the three things I wanted to present to my Happy Hour buddies: an invitation to attend a gathering at the museum on Saturday; Dudley House tour on Sunday (I want to pick up my docent directory and would like to tour the upstairs, which I don't do); and a woman's symposium at the Hyatt, sponsored by the hospital on June 22. I went to this last year and found it informative; a nice touch: it includes breakfast.
I then walked to Smart 'n' Final and picked up three 18 ounce containers of blueberries, plus Romaine. That's one and a third miles and I intended to take the bus back, but waited at the stop for twenty minutes and it didn't come, so I walked back. I was glad to get almost three miles in, as I knew Happy Hour was going to be at the Alehouse Cask, the next block from here.
Nancy called to check where the place was and we chatted about this and that, including our dear young friend (well, it's all relative; 57 is young to us) and sister in Happy Hour jaunts, Carolyn. Her evident confusion and forgetfulness is troubling, but she hasn't given any of us an opening to talk about it.
Got to the place at 4:00 to find Diane there; the other two came shortly. I was displeased to see two women in the easy chair setting by the window, which I had reserved for us. The server seems perfectly indifferent when I mentioned it. I decided not to make a scene, so we just waited until the other two left after a half hour or so, and took our plates and glasses to the area.
Had a good time and we stayed until almost 6:00. However, I simply forgot all about asking if anybody wanted to go to the occasions I mentioned above: I'll see about that later. The van came for Diane, we other three chatted for a few more minutes, then left. I strolled the short distance home, but for some reason, didn't feel like staying in, even though it was after 6:00. Went out, thinking I'd take a bus to East Ventura, but while I was waiting, Betty called and while we talked--oh, correction: she talked, on and on and on and I listened. I then decided not to go elsewhere--it was almost 7:00 by then--and went back home to kick back for the night .
*We had these in the porch railings cum bees on Rosborough Avenue all through my childhood, but to my knowledge, they never stung anybody. My mother often repeated, "If thee will let the bee be, the bee will let thee be" and so it was.
Wednesday, May 22, 2019
Santa Barbara And Garlic
I think I'm out of my blue funk, and high time. Left for my usual Santa Barbara Tuesday; bus was late and I was twenty minutes late getting to Betty's, but no matter. Carolyn was there and we went back to her place for an hour or two. Carolyn was on the phone and on the computer with the buyers' reps , the final papers were signed and sent, and now Betty's house is good and properly sold--YAY!
The three of us then went to lunch at a restaurant near Finn's school. Carolyn texted him and he joined us--much fun.
After, Betty and I went back to her place, then walked up to State Street for me to get to town in time for the 3:37 back to Ventura. I got off, as I usually do, at the first stop, walked the mile or so to the library. Stopped in there, but they didn't have what I wanted (The Making of The Godfather) and I only stayed long enough to use the facility.
Got the bus on Main and got off at a store about equi-distant between town and my place. Bought lettuce, cherries, and blackberries--they had no blueberries, darn it--plus four garlics. I just sent for a garlic dicer from Amazon and want to try it out--I love garlic.
Didn't get home until almost 7:00, but it was a good day.
The three of us then went to lunch at a restaurant near Finn's school. Carolyn texted him and he joined us--much fun.
After, Betty and I went back to her place, then walked up to State Street for me to get to town in time for the 3:37 back to Ventura. I got off, as I usually do, at the first stop, walked the mile or so to the library. Stopped in there, but they didn't have what I wanted (The Making of The Godfather) and I only stayed long enough to use the facility.
Got the bus on Main and got off at a store about equi-distant between town and my place. Bought lettuce, cherries, and blackberries--they had no blueberries, darn it--plus four garlics. I just sent for a garlic dicer from Amazon and want to try it out--I love garlic.
Didn't get home until almost 7:00, but it was a good day.
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
The Court And The Widder Dinner
I can't believe this! I had several paragraphs written about yesterday and, somehow, pressed something and it disappeared--damn! Okay, I'm not trying to do it all over, but will just put in a scant synopsis:
Van was supposed to take me to the courthouse, but there was a mix up and I took a bus. Was there from 11:30 to about 4:00, what with other cases and so on. I presented my "deal" to the judge--a very pleasant and kind fortyish woman--who said she couldn't forgive the whole fine ($641), but reduced it to two hundred. I also have to take the on-line traffic school again.
Walked home (a bit more than a mile) and got ready for the widder dinner. Talked to Diane and Betty after taking the bus to Telephone Road, but walked from there (another mile) to the Stone Fire Grille. It was a good group, with the regulars, plus a new guy, named Brett, whose wife had had early-onset dementia, as well as ALS, and died four years ago.
Barbara Q., whom I like so much, was there, and we had a good chat. Barb is the CEO of the Ventura Fairgrounds; she asked me to let her know when I was walking the Promenade so we can plan lunch. Carolyn and Nancy were there and I told them I had reserved the easy chairs at the Alehouse Cask, where we'll meet for Happy Hour tomorrow.
Donna and Mark took me home and I got in about 7:30.
Van was supposed to take me to the courthouse, but there was a mix up and I took a bus. Was there from 11:30 to about 4:00, what with other cases and so on. I presented my "deal" to the judge--a very pleasant and kind fortyish woman--who said she couldn't forgive the whole fine ($641), but reduced it to two hundred. I also have to take the on-line traffic school again.
Walked home (a bit more than a mile) and got ready for the widder dinner. Talked to Diane and Betty after taking the bus to Telephone Road, but walked from there (another mile) to the Stone Fire Grille. It was a good group, with the regulars, plus a new guy, named Brett, whose wife had had early-onset dementia, as well as ALS, and died four years ago.
Barbara Q., whom I like so much, was there, and we had a good chat. Barb is the CEO of the Ventura Fairgrounds; she asked me to let her know when I was walking the Promenade so we can plan lunch. Carolyn and Nancy were there and I told them I had reserved the easy chairs at the Alehouse Cask, where we'll meet for Happy Hour tomorrow.
Donna and Mark took me home and I got in about 7:30.
Monday, May 20, 2019
Sunday
Well, for part of the day, things were still running the gamut from icky to awful. I had intended to get my car washed and was driving to Five Points when it started to rain. I decided the hell with it, and drove home.
Bought my tickets for Albuquerque and, as before, I'll probably have to get up at 3:00 am and to Five Points for the shuttle by 4:15, as Suzanne did. Well, she'll take me; Ellen can take me home when I get back, as it's on Sunday afternoon. I must remember to reserve the shuttle, too.
I called the Access Van and arranged to have them take me to the government center by 11:00 today. I have to turn in my papers to the Superior Court, then be heard at 1:30. I think I'll stay around and have lunch there, instead of going home in between.
For some inexplicable reason, I was nervous about picking up Suzanne. In fact, my hands and arms started to itch terribly; this has happened before when I was worried or very tense. She texted me from LAX, and again when she was twenty minutes away, and I drove to the Sheraton, arriving almost exactly when she was getting off the Airporter.
She had had a wonderful time in Santa Fe, describing the comings and goings with great animation. This was a Road Scholar trip, which she's been on before. Someday, She was with a fellow Sister (sister Sister?), but there were 26 woman on the trip and Suzanne said they were all very compatible.Anyway, she agreed immediately to take me to the Airport on June 10--I'm afraid I have to be there by 4:15 am, but she's okay with it, as I was.
As soon as we said goodbye (at our next-to-each-other doors), I took off for the bus. I felt very relieved and much better. However, it was none too warm and the wind was up again. I was there about twenty minutes and no bus, so I just left, stopped at Von's for salad dressing and yogurt, and went home.
Bought my tickets for Albuquerque and, as before, I'll probably have to get up at 3:00 am and to Five Points for the shuttle by 4:15, as Suzanne did. Well, she'll take me; Ellen can take me home when I get back, as it's on Sunday afternoon. I must remember to reserve the shuttle, too.
I called the Access Van and arranged to have them take me to the government center by 11:00 today. I have to turn in my papers to the Superior Court, then be heard at 1:30. I think I'll stay around and have lunch there, instead of going home in between.
For some inexplicable reason, I was nervous about picking up Suzanne. In fact, my hands and arms started to itch terribly; this has happened before when I was worried or very tense. She texted me from LAX, and again when she was twenty minutes away, and I drove to the Sheraton, arriving almost exactly when she was getting off the Airporter.
She had had a wonderful time in Santa Fe, describing the comings and goings with great animation. This was a Road Scholar trip, which she's been on before. Someday, She was with a fellow Sister (sister Sister?), but there were 26 woman on the trip and Suzanne said they were all very compatible.Anyway, she agreed immediately to take me to the Airport on June 10--I'm afraid I have to be there by 4:15 am, but she's okay with it, as I was.
As soon as we said goodbye (at our next-to-each-other doors), I took off for the bus. I felt very relieved and much better. However, it was none too warm and the wind was up again. I was there about twenty minutes and no bus, so I just left, stopped at Von's for salad dressing and yogurt, and went home.
Sunday, May 19, 2019
Mopey And Dopey
Darn, another mopey, dopey day. Cold isn't terrible, but it's still there. I started out walking after breakfast--thought I'd walk down Victoria to Telephone, which is 1.5 miles. Got a short distance away and decided not to. Turned back and just fooled around on the computer before lunch. Carolyn M. called to see why I wasn't at T.O.P.S. and we chatted for a bit. Little does she know I probably won't be attending every week now.
As a drastic change, I had a large chicken thigh for lunch instead of my usual salad; had the latter for dinner. I saw an interesting picture on Facebook that concerned a relative, so I called him and we had a lovely talk. How I'd love to go to Jersey to see him and his family, but I'm not sure when.
Looked up on Expedia and other sites about flights to New Mexico and will book one soon.
About 3:00, I finally went out, but in the car. I'm now a little nervous about driving, but I'm picking Suzanne up at the Sheraton shuttle this afternoon, so thought I should--well, practice. Drove to the Dollar Tree and Smart 'n' Final for tissues, cottage cheese, and oranges with no problem and gained some confidence. It had actually started raining a bit by the time I got home, but mildly. El called to see how I was feeling and we had a nice talk.
I'm feeling marginally better this morning and think I'll survive.
As a drastic change, I had a large chicken thigh for lunch instead of my usual salad; had the latter for dinner. I saw an interesting picture on Facebook that concerned a relative, so I called him and we had a lovely talk. How I'd love to go to Jersey to see him and his family, but I'm not sure when.
Looked up on Expedia and other sites about flights to New Mexico and will book one soon.
About 3:00, I finally went out, but in the car. I'm now a little nervous about driving, but I'm picking Suzanne up at the Sheraton shuttle this afternoon, so thought I should--well, practice. Drove to the Dollar Tree and Smart 'n' Final for tissues, cottage cheese, and oranges with no problem and gained some confidence. It had actually started raining a bit by the time I got home, but mildly. El called to see how I was feeling and we had a nice talk.
I'm feeling marginally better this morning and think I'll survive.
Saturday, May 18, 2019
Looking Up
Okay, things are looking up. I didn't walk in the morning--I may be giving that up--but got plenty in the rest of the day. I think I'm going to be modifying my everyday routine, too: I slept again until 6:30, which seems to be what my body wants (I didn't set the alarm). My cold seemed worse, though, and I called Cheryl to tell her not to pick me up, as I wasn't going to T.O.P.S.
Actually, after I took a few aspirin and had breakfast, I felt better. I was out of blueberries and also, quarters, so took the bus to Victoria, walked to the bank, then to the 99 Cent store. This provided maybe two miles and I then walked to Von's for diet 7Up.
I've never been a soda fan, diet or otherwise; I prefer iced tea. However, between the time I come home from town and dinner, I fool my appetite with diet 7Up. I never buy cans or large bottles, only the small, 12 oz. ones and I only drink about half, if that. I was out of it and I saw it was on sale at Von's at three for sixteen bucks. I bought three and there are 8 in a pack, so they were six pounds each. I managed to carry two home--and stored them in my trunk--but had to make a second trip back for the third, which is now in the fridge.
Stella called. She's leaving for Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic this morning, hoping to find a remedy for her chronic (back? leg?) pain. Anyway, we had a good talk and I hope they can offer her something. Betty called, still agitated about her house; settlement is this coming week, but of course, there are all kinds of things to be settled first. Betty doesn't realize that her involvement is more or less bogus.
After lunch, I took off for town and it was good to get back to my regular Promenade walk. I stopped into the ARC store and found a neat light metal decorative-type thing I had to buy for my kitchen wall. It's about three feet by two, so it was a little awkward taking it on the bus, but I managed.
Got home and realized I was out of veggies. so visited Von's again for Brussels sprouts and spinach.
Actually, after I took a few aspirin and had breakfast, I felt better. I was out of blueberries and also, quarters, so took the bus to Victoria, walked to the bank, then to the 99 Cent store. This provided maybe two miles and I then walked to Von's for diet 7Up.
I've never been a soda fan, diet or otherwise; I prefer iced tea. However, between the time I come home from town and dinner, I fool my appetite with diet 7Up. I never buy cans or large bottles, only the small, 12 oz. ones and I only drink about half, if that. I was out of it and I saw it was on sale at Von's at three for sixteen bucks. I bought three and there are 8 in a pack, so they were six pounds each. I managed to carry two home--and stored them in my trunk--but had to make a second trip back for the third, which is now in the fridge.
Stella called. She's leaving for Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic this morning, hoping to find a remedy for her chronic (back? leg?) pain. Anyway, we had a good talk and I hope they can offer her something. Betty called, still agitated about her house; settlement is this coming week, but of course, there are all kinds of things to be settled first. Betty doesn't realize that her involvement is more or less bogus.
After lunch, I took off for town and it was good to get back to my regular Promenade walk. I stopped into the ARC store and found a neat light metal decorative-type thing I had to buy for my kitchen wall. It's about three feet by two, so it was a little awkward taking it on the bus, but I managed.
Got home and realized I was out of veggies. so visited Von's again for Brussels sprouts and spinach.
Friday, May 17, 2019
Toastmasters
Draggy, dreary day. I woke up with a cold and feeling lousy. I was agonizing over going to court, the problem being your have to turn in your paperwork by 12:15 to get on--I guess it's called "the docket"--by the start at 1:30. In my case, that means either walking or taking the bus, then walking, and doing that twice. I actually started off, but it had gotten terribly windy before I even got to the bus stop, so I turned back and went home.
I decided to hold off until Monday. I'll make a note to call the Access Van on Sunday and have them take me both times, I guess. I also have the Soaring Spirits dinner at the Stone Fire Grille, only a mile or so away, but that's at 6:00. Went over to Von's for lettuce and stuff and ran into Cheryl. I asked if she'd pick me up for T.O.P.S. this morning, but when I got up right now, I decided to skip it. I'll call her shortly.
Aside from that, I little during the day. I tried to take a nap, but was restless and just spent time on YouTube watching scenes from The Godfather. I'm reading the autobiography of Gianni Russo, who played Carlo, Brando's son-in-law. According to the book, he actually was active in Frank Costello's Mafia before going into acting. I haven't yet gotten to the part where he gets into the movie.
I did go to Humor & Drama Toastmasters because I had promised Judi I'd act as her evaluater. This chapter has only nine members and last night, only four of us showed up. I thought it would be a bore, but actually, it was a lot of fun. Judi did the improv, which was hysterical. The premise was "high school reunion" and we each picked a slip of paper with a descriptive word on it, then two played off each other. Mine was "hypochondriac" and Dick's was "gangster," so I kept whining about my aches and pains and he pulled out a gun and threatened to mow me down.
Raul took me home and I talked to Ellen, who had called during the meeting. I didn't get to bed until 10, but slept soundly, at least.
I decided to hold off until Monday. I'll make a note to call the Access Van on Sunday and have them take me both times, I guess. I also have the Soaring Spirits dinner at the Stone Fire Grille, only a mile or so away, but that's at 6:00. Went over to Von's for lettuce and stuff and ran into Cheryl. I asked if she'd pick me up for T.O.P.S. this morning, but when I got up right now, I decided to skip it. I'll call her shortly.
Aside from that, I little during the day. I tried to take a nap, but was restless and just spent time on YouTube watching scenes from The Godfather. I'm reading the autobiography of Gianni Russo, who played Carlo, Brando's son-in-law. According to the book, he actually was active in Frank Costello's Mafia before going into acting. I haven't yet gotten to the part where he gets into the movie.
I did go to Humor & Drama Toastmasters because I had promised Judi I'd act as her evaluater. This chapter has only nine members and last night, only four of us showed up. I thought it would be a bore, but actually, it was a lot of fun. Judi did the improv, which was hysterical. The premise was "high school reunion" and we each picked a slip of paper with a descriptive word on it, then two played off each other. Mine was "hypochondriac" and Dick's was "gangster," so I kept whining about my aches and pains and he pulled out a gun and threatened to mow me down.
Raul took me home and I talked to Ellen, who had called during the meeting. I didn't get to bed until 10, but slept soundly, at least.
Thursday, May 16, 2019
Kippy Keating And Happy Hour
Up, but not at'um; I didn't take a morning walk. I took my advisors' advice and called my neighbor, Susan, to ask who she used for a gardener. She recommended Tony C. and gave me his number. I called and left a message. Susan and I talked for almost an hour and it was so good. I miss her and, although I'm happy to have made my move, there are things I left behind that are precious.
Stripped the bed and took the linens and white clothes to the laundry building, with all the usual back and forth. For some reason, in between the wash and dry, I started thinking about Kippy Keating. Decided to look her up--I knew she had married Eddie Weinrich and they lived in Willow Grove, where he had a bakery chain.
Oh, darn, I found Kippy's obituary: she died four years ago. She was in St. James with my brother, Frank, and I went all through to eighth grade with her brother, Michael. For some reason, they went to ACHS. Their mom, a widow, and my mother were good friends for years.
Changed and took off after lunch for Happy Hour. Met the other three of the fabulous four at Lure Fish House and we had a good time. Sat on the patio and talked over several topics, ranging from abortion to Nancy's haircut (she went to my hairdresser, Mary) to my landscaper woes. We were there for almost two hours, then said goodbye until next time, and I walked down Main to the library.
On my way, Tony C. called back and said he'd give me an estimate for the bush and an overall cleanup. I liked him and hope this works out. Hopped the bus after browsing in the library and got home at 7:30. I immediately got in the shower, then settled down for the evening.
Today, I had intended to go to court and throw myself on the judge's mercy. Unfortunately, I woke up with a cold and feel lousy--not sure if I'll make it today and I do have util the twenty-eighth.
Stripped the bed and took the linens and white clothes to the laundry building, with all the usual back and forth. For some reason, in between the wash and dry, I started thinking about Kippy Keating. Decided to look her up--I knew she had married Eddie Weinrich and they lived in Willow Grove, where he had a bakery chain.
Oh, darn, I found Kippy's obituary: she died four years ago. She was in St. James with my brother, Frank, and I went all through to eighth grade with her brother, Michael. For some reason, they went to ACHS. Their mom, a widow, and my mother were good friends for years.
Changed and took off after lunch for Happy Hour. Met the other three of the fabulous four at Lure Fish House and we had a good time. Sat on the patio and talked over several topics, ranging from abortion to Nancy's haircut (she went to my hairdresser, Mary) to my landscaper woes. We were there for almost two hours, then said goodbye until next time, and I walked down Main to the library.
On my way, Tony C. called back and said he'd give me an estimate for the bush and an overall cleanup. I liked him and hope this works out. Hopped the bus after browsing in the library and got home at 7:30. I immediately got in the shower, then settled down for the evening.
Today, I had intended to go to court and throw myself on the judge's mercy. Unfortunately, I woke up with a cold and feel lousy--not sure if I'll make it today and I do have util the twenty-eighth.
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
Twin Tuesday And Edward
For some reason, I had a restless night. Got up at 5:30 for the usual and stayed up. Breakfast at 8, out to the bus at 9, the V. to S.B. bus at 9:43, the local S.B. bus after, and I was at Betty's door exactly at 11:30.
We walked to the mall and went to Islands restaurant; happily, Carolyn joined us this time. We chatted away and it was like old times. Carolyn invited me to Finn's graduation party on June 8; hope I can fit it in, as I'm also invited to New Mexico at the beginning of June.
We were dropped off at Betty's, then played double solitaire (the only card game besides gin rummy I can tolerate) until it was time for me to wait for the bus back to town. Betty waited with me, it came within ten minutes, and we said goodbye until next Tuesday.
On the bus back to Ventura, somebody from the Ventura Star called to say there was a problem with my credit card. What, again? That was taken care of more than a week ago. After this, that, and the other, the guy apologized and said it had been posted late or something. I don't even know what could have been the problem with the first card, as I've been paying that way for years and it's certainly valid. Annoying.
A man who introduced himself as Edward sat next to me said he wasn't into all this new-fangled (well, he didn't actually use that word) stuff now that he was so old: seventy. I hooted, told him I was twelve years older and I liked the internet and computers, etc.--to a point, that is. Anyway, he was an interesting guy--name is Edward and we continued to chat until we both got off at the first Ventura stop; we walked a block together until he had to wait for the Ojai bus. I continued, walking several blocks past the library, probably about two miles, which I needed and felt good. Didn't get home until 7:00 after an enjoyable day.
We walked to the mall and went to Islands restaurant; happily, Carolyn joined us this time. We chatted away and it was like old times. Carolyn invited me to Finn's graduation party on June 8; hope I can fit it in, as I'm also invited to New Mexico at the beginning of June.
We were dropped off at Betty's, then played double solitaire (the only card game besides gin rummy I can tolerate) until it was time for me to wait for the bus back to town. Betty waited with me, it came within ten minutes, and we said goodbye until next Tuesday.
On the bus back to Ventura, somebody from the Ventura Star called to say there was a problem with my credit card. What, again? That was taken care of more than a week ago. After this, that, and the other, the guy apologized and said it had been posted late or something. I don't even know what could have been the problem with the first card, as I've been paying that way for years and it's certainly valid. Annoying.
A man who introduced himself as Edward sat next to me said he wasn't into all this new-fangled (well, he didn't actually use that word) stuff now that he was so old: seventy. I hooted, told him I was twelve years older and I liked the internet and computers, etc.--to a point, that is. Anyway, he was an interesting guy--name is Edward and we continued to chat until we both got off at the first Ventura stop; we walked a block together until he had to wait for the Ojai bus. I continued, walking several blocks past the library, probably about two miles, which I needed and felt good. Didn't get home until 7:00 after an enjoyable day.
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
Early Rise And So On
As noted, I got up at 3:00 am. After downing a mug of the Brew of the Gods--coffee, of course--I was perky enough. Dressed and was outside waiting for Suzanne at 3:45.
There was hardly another car on the road and I confidently swung onto Telephone from Victoria. It should have been just a straight shot to Harbor Boulevard, but Telephone was closed after Main. We had to circle around, took a turn which should have gotten me back on course, but that road was closed, too. However, after a bit more maneuvering, I managed to get Suzanne to the Sheraton in time for the shuttle.
Home and went on the laptop for a time, then took a two-hour nap. It was 8:20 when I got up and I just resumed my usual routine. I decided to walk to the 99-cent store for various and did so (1.5 miles), but took a bus back.
One of the gardeners I had called about the bush called me back and said he'd trim it for two hundred bucks, but the whole place needs to be done. He said it was a mess. After we talked, he e-mailed me an estimate of $1,326.25 but I don't even know if that includes the tree trimmings. I forwarded the estimates to my children to get their input. I'm going to ask my neighbors who they use, too.
Stopped at Von's for Romaine, made lunch, downed it, then took off for the bus to town. I walked under several trees and thought a leaf had fallen on my hair; reached up to get it, and was stung! It turned out to be some kind of baby bee or something. I know it wasn't a wasp because I've been stung by them and believe me, I'd remember that. They hurt like hell. Anyway, this was on my middle finger, right hand. I was able to pull the tiny stinger out and it wasn't as bad. It still hurt a bit for a few hours, but finally subsided.
Went to the library, dropped off a book and picked up another. Walked down Main, then back again to the library, but I didn't go to The Promenade this time. Called El and we chatted.
Today is Twin Tuesday so I'll be leaving soon for Santa Barbara. Tomorrow, I'm going to force myself to go to court. (I'll have Happy Hour to cheer up with after that.)
There was hardly another car on the road and I confidently swung onto Telephone from Victoria. It should have been just a straight shot to Harbor Boulevard, but Telephone was closed after Main. We had to circle around, took a turn which should have gotten me back on course, but that road was closed, too. However, after a bit more maneuvering, I managed to get Suzanne to the Sheraton in time for the shuttle.
Home and went on the laptop for a time, then took a two-hour nap. It was 8:20 when I got up and I just resumed my usual routine. I decided to walk to the 99-cent store for various and did so (1.5 miles), but took a bus back.
One of the gardeners I had called about the bush called me back and said he'd trim it for two hundred bucks, but the whole place needs to be done. He said it was a mess. After we talked, he e-mailed me an estimate of $1,326.25 but I don't even know if that includes the tree trimmings. I forwarded the estimates to my children to get their input. I'm going to ask my neighbors who they use, too.
Stopped at Von's for Romaine, made lunch, downed it, then took off for the bus to town. I walked under several trees and thought a leaf had fallen on my hair; reached up to get it, and was stung! It turned out to be some kind of baby bee or something. I know it wasn't a wasp because I've been stung by them and believe me, I'd remember that. They hurt like hell. Anyway, this was on my middle finger, right hand. I was able to pull the tiny stinger out and it wasn't as bad. It still hurt a bit for a few hours, but finally subsided.
Went to the library, dropped off a book and picked up another. Walked down Main, then back again to the library, but I didn't go to The Promenade this time. Called El and we chatted.
Today is Twin Tuesday so I'll be leaving soon for Santa Barbara. Tomorrow, I'm going to force myself to go to court. (I'll have Happy Hour to cheer up with after that.)
Monday, May 13, 2019
Mothers Day And Monday In The Wee Hours
It turned out to be a lovely Mothers Day. Hopped the bus, then the Ojai bus, walked from there to my Ellen's and got there at 11:30. El had bought some Stella (beer) for me, but had accidentally left it in the cart at Von's. We went there and, since she had the receipt, they cheerfully gave her another six pack.
Home, she chopped and sliced and diced and made up a delicious pasta dish in her Insta-Pot. It seems this is kind of a combination slow cooker and pressure cooker. With salad and a cold Stella, not to mention the caramel chocolate ice cream bar for dessert, it was yummy. El had made up the same kind of "mother tribute" she had her third graders do ("M--most marvelous Mom, O--outstandingly supportive...") and she made one for me--I love it. In addition, she gave me a pedi-file; regretfully, I think I'll have to take it back, as it may not work on my bunion calluses. My best present was that El promised she and I will have lunch out together one regular day a month--yay!
After lunch I lazed in the backyard (sunny and 73 degrees) while she cleaned up. We then drove up into the hills and took a walk, plus some selfies. Back to her place for a walk through her neighborhood, then I had another beer and pistachios while El went through some junk mail. The Access van came right at 5:00 and we hugged goodbye.
As soon as I got home, Suzanne came over and regretfully said the airline had changed her time and she had to be at the Sheraton this morning at 4:15 am, not 6:00. She said she'd drive and leave her car there, but I wouldn't hear of it. It won't kill me to take her, so I set the alarm for 3:00 and here I am.
Mike called on Skype, but the connection wasn't great, so we went into Facebook's video and saw each other that way. I hope he, Paula, and the girls will be here in the summer. Betty also called; I'll see her tomorrow, of course.
So it was a good day and I'm happy to be a mother, especially of these four.
Home, she chopped and sliced and diced and made up a delicious pasta dish in her Insta-Pot. It seems this is kind of a combination slow cooker and pressure cooker. With salad and a cold Stella, not to mention the caramel chocolate ice cream bar for dessert, it was yummy. El had made up the same kind of "mother tribute" she had her third graders do ("M--most marvelous Mom, O--outstandingly supportive...") and she made one for me--I love it. In addition, she gave me a pedi-file; regretfully, I think I'll have to take it back, as it may not work on my bunion calluses. My best present was that El promised she and I will have lunch out together one regular day a month--yay!
After lunch I lazed in the backyard (sunny and 73 degrees) while she cleaned up. We then drove up into the hills and took a walk, plus some selfies. Back to her place for a walk through her neighborhood, then I had another beer and pistachios while El went through some junk mail. The Access van came right at 5:00 and we hugged goodbye.
As soon as I got home, Suzanne came over and regretfully said the airline had changed her time and she had to be at the Sheraton this morning at 4:15 am, not 6:00. She said she'd drive and leave her car there, but I wouldn't hear of it. It won't kill me to take her, so I set the alarm for 3:00 and here I am.
Mike called on Skype, but the connection wasn't great, so we went into Facebook's video and saw each other that way. I hope he, Paula, and the girls will be here in the summer. Betty also called; I'll see her tomorrow, of course.
So it was a good day and I'm happy to be a mother, especially of these four.
Sunday, May 12, 2019
Various And A Glance Back
Didn't walk in the morning, but about 7:30, I got in the car and took a dry run to the Sheraton. I'll be taking Suzanne tomorrow and wanted to be prepared. Actually, it was fine and I felt less nervous after a few minutes. I stopped at the 99 Cent store for a few items, then went home for breakfast.
Before and after lunch, I spent a lot of time on food prep, to wit: trimmed, sliced, and seasoned several pounds of tomatoes and onions and put them in the oven. Scrubbed two pounds of carrots and some oranges, added cinnamon, and put them in the slow cooker. Sliced two kinds of mushrooms and cut up a sweet pepper, which I stir-fried with the ground turkey I had left from the night before. Trimmed and sliced some banana shallots, which I have marinating in the fridge; will probably eat them tomorrow. Microwaved a pound of fresh spinach, adding my usual oil/lime juice/garlic dressing and had some for dinner.
El called in between all this and we had a long talk. She asked if I'd rather come over there or go out somewhere for lunch. I opted enthusiastically for the former--I really don't like going out on Mother's Day. Prices are doubled, the food is often not even that good, the service is dismal, and some places are crowded. As it turns out, Greg is working, so it will be just the two of us, but that's fine by me. I'll take the bus over, but at El's suggestion, I called the Access van to be driven home.
After lunch, I bussed to the mall and got fresh blueberries at Target. I toyed with the idea of going into town, but didn't feel like it, so just lazed at home.
Note: I sometimes re-read this blog and came across the following from almost exactly five years ago. At the time, who would have believed I'd be living in California and, indeed, living a considerably more interesting life? Not me, but here I am, and I'm glad of it.
Thursday, May 08, 2014
Thursday, May 08, 2014
Smithville Two
The Women's Club luncheon was at Smithville Inn, not where Aline and I had eaten on Tuesday. I sat with Bessie, Barb H., Iris, Doris (who's on oxygen; I well remember what that's like) and her daughter, and a few others with whom I'm friendly. It was the usual women's club-type lunch: not bad, the food edible if not unforgettable (I had salmon), the company pleasant enough, but so very, very--well, usual.
I've been to dozens, if not hundreds, of these gatherings. Not only does the Woman's Club have luncheons twice a year, but all the other organized luncheons I attend are so much the same. They comprise a group of older women, all dressed, coiffed, and jewelryed up, nodding and smiling and talking and laughing and I do the same, but on a certain shadowy level, I'm bored, bored, bored to tears.
I want to go places more interesting--even exciting--than southern New Jersey and its provincialism, and be with people under the age of 80. No, that part doesn't matter, it isn't the age thing exactly, but with people who won't gasp in horror if you express a thought that isn't precisely a reflection of what everyone else they know has said and believed. I want to converse with people who don't watch Fox News. Who don't watch The View. Who don't watch.
I've been to dozens, if not hundreds, of these gatherings. Not only does the Woman's Club have luncheons twice a year, but all the other organized luncheons I attend are so much the same. They comprise a group of older women, all dressed, coiffed, and jewelryed up, nodding and smiling and talking and laughing and I do the same, but on a certain shadowy level, I'm bored, bored, bored to tears.
I want to go places more interesting--even exciting--than southern New Jersey and its provincialism, and be with people under the age of 80. No, that part doesn't matter, it isn't the age thing exactly, but with people who won't gasp in horror if you express a thought that isn't precisely a reflection of what everyone else they know has said and believed. I want to converse with people who don't watch Fox News. Who don't watch The View. Who don't watch.
Saturday, May 11, 2019
T.O.P.S. And A Tantrum
I set off for Trinity Lutheran at about 8:10, thinking I'd catch a bus. However, it didn't come for several minutes, so I started walking. I was about halfway there when a bus passed, then another, but I was between stops. No prob, I just continued on and walked all the way (it's just two miles from my place to Trinity Lutheran).
--B*R*E*A*K. There's a big rant below about my T.O.P.S. colleagues, but it may be a bore for the casual reader (unlike my utterly fascinating daily doings--ha!), so I put it below.--
I was pleased to weigh in at 129.7, having lost a pound. I wouldn't be surprised if that was the result of my extra walking, but who knows? Walked to the bus stop, then another three blocks before I boarded one. Didn't get breakfast until 10, but that's better than later.
Finally got out to the garden. I moved two plants to other places, mixed coffee grounds in with the soil, and watered. While I was outside, Suzanne came out to her patio in her robe and we chatted. I'll be taking her to the Sheraton to get the shuttle to LAX on Monday at 5:55 am.
Betty called--actually, we called back and forth four times, discussing a picture on Facebook. She sounded pretty good until she mentioned how Microsoft is threatening her.
After lunch, I hopped a bus, then another to Community Hospital to an Alzheimer caregiver gathering at Community Hospital. There were eight people (one man) around a big table in the eighth floor board room--spectacular views, by the way--who talked about their experiences; most still had their husbands/parents/wife at home. Although I'm not a caregiver, I was welcomed cordially and for some reason, I felt better after.
Walked the short distance to a nearby store I like and got produce, then took the bus to the transit center. Got off that one and onto another I thought was a 10, which stops right in front of my place. I had to wait twenty minutes for it to start and when it did, it turned out to be a 16 and turned toward town. Darn, but it was no biggie; I just walked up to the library and got another bus back.
Stopped at Von's for yogurt and Parmesan cheese.
Now it's been more than a week since I've driven, but I'm going to today. Since I'll be driving Suzanne soon, I want to get back into it.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
When I walked in, Cheryl asked if I was driving yet; I said no, I had walked. Well, you would think I had told them I had crawled on my hands and knees from L.A.! Everybody in the room looked horrified and expressed great consternation. Three people said they'd drive me home, but I refused, as I had no intention of staying after I got weighed. (Why in the hell anyone in a weight loss organization would want to hear somebody read about scams, which was the second half of Luisa's "program," I can't imagine. I didn't actually say it in those words, but I indicated that was the reason I was leaving.) What gets me is that rarely do any of these people lose weight; never do they keep it off. There are a few, I know, such as Sharon, who is very heavy and has diabetes and bad knees; and Cheryl, who was in an accident years ago and wears braces on her legs, who are unable to walk more than short distances. The others? They could start walking or do any other kind of consistent exercise. Many of them wear Fit-bits, which seems to me one of the biggest ripoffs organized commerce ever pulled off. Those who "count steps" labor under the delusion they're being active and healthy when they have a certain number recorded. Yet, the idea of simply walking a mile or two they regard as outlandish; judging by the horror they expressed yesterday, they seem to believe it's somehow unnatural and harmful.
Okay, rant over and I'll get back to T.O.P.S. next week.
--B*R*E*A*K. There's a big rant below about my T.O.P.S. colleagues, but it may be a bore for the casual reader (unlike my utterly fascinating daily doings--ha!), so I put it below.--
I was pleased to weigh in at 129.7, having lost a pound. I wouldn't be surprised if that was the result of my extra walking, but who knows? Walked to the bus stop, then another three blocks before I boarded one. Didn't get breakfast until 10, but that's better than later.
Finally got out to the garden. I moved two plants to other places, mixed coffee grounds in with the soil, and watered. While I was outside, Suzanne came out to her patio in her robe and we chatted. I'll be taking her to the Sheraton to get the shuttle to LAX on Monday at 5:55 am.
Betty called--actually, we called back and forth four times, discussing a picture on Facebook. She sounded pretty good until she mentioned how Microsoft is threatening her.
After lunch, I hopped a bus, then another to Community Hospital to an Alzheimer caregiver gathering at Community Hospital. There were eight people (one man) around a big table in the eighth floor board room--spectacular views, by the way--who talked about their experiences; most still had their husbands/parents/wife at home. Although I'm not a caregiver, I was welcomed cordially and for some reason, I felt better after.
Walked the short distance to a nearby store I like and got produce, then took the bus to the transit center. Got off that one and onto another I thought was a 10, which stops right in front of my place. I had to wait twenty minutes for it to start and when it did, it turned out to be a 16 and turned toward town. Darn, but it was no biggie; I just walked up to the library and got another bus back.
Stopped at Von's for yogurt and Parmesan cheese.
Now it's been more than a week since I've driven, but I'm going to today. Since I'll be driving Suzanne soon, I want to get back into it.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
When I walked in, Cheryl asked if I was driving yet; I said no, I had walked. Well, you would think I had told them I had crawled on my hands and knees from L.A.! Everybody in the room looked horrified and expressed great consternation. Three people said they'd drive me home, but I refused, as I had no intention of staying after I got weighed. (Why in the hell anyone in a weight loss organization would want to hear somebody read about scams, which was the second half of Luisa's "program," I can't imagine. I didn't actually say it in those words, but I indicated that was the reason I was leaving.) What gets me is that rarely do any of these people lose weight; never do they keep it off. There are a few, I know, such as Sharon, who is very heavy and has diabetes and bad knees; and Cheryl, who was in an accident years ago and wears braces on her legs, who are unable to walk more than short distances. The others? They could start walking or do any other kind of consistent exercise. Many of them wear Fit-bits, which seems to me one of the biggest ripoffs organized commerce ever pulled off. Those who "count steps" labor under the delusion they're being active and healthy when they have a certain number recorded. Yet, the idea of simply walking a mile or two they regard as outlandish; judging by the horror they expressed yesterday, they seem to believe it's somehow unnatural and harmful.
Okay, rant over and I'll get back to T.O.P.S. next week.
Friday, May 10, 2019
Thursday
Didn't walk until after 8:00, but then I took a long one in the neighborhood, including uphill. Home for breakfast, then had to force myself to examine the damn traffic violation papers. I have until May 28 to respond and I'm getting more and more upset about it. Now I'm afraid to drive; I said I wouldn't for a week and the week is over, but I still haven't gotten behind the wheel.
I made a marinade and roasted some onions in the clay "onion baker" I bought for some unknown reason. I'm sure they would be just as good in a baking pan or something. Walked over to Von's for lettuce and cottage cheese. Walked to the post office and mailed some cards. Had lunch, then took the bus to Telephone and walked to the Hill Road branch of the library to return the Stephen King book I no longer have any desire to read. From there, I went to the 99-Cent store for rice cakes and mushrooms.
I waited for the bus back, but then decided to walk to Ralph's to see if they had blueberries. I was about to walk into that shopping center when the bus came and I impulsively got on it. I had the idea I would ride to town and back--no particular reason, I was just at loose ends and unhappy. However, when I got to the transit center, I changed my mind again and just rode back to Victoria and walked home.
It was a down day and this morning, I have T.O.P.S. I'll either walk there or take a bus, but I'm just going to get weighed (to add to my low mood, I think I'm up), then leave before the meeting. Why? Because it will be the second half of Luisa's scam program. Actually, I shouldn't dignify it by writing "program"; she simply reads some crapola she got off the Internet. Since there are hundreds, if not thousands, of sites that have to do with weight loss, why I'm expected to sit through this is beyond me.
So I won't sit through it.
I made a marinade and roasted some onions in the clay "onion baker" I bought for some unknown reason. I'm sure they would be just as good in a baking pan or something. Walked over to Von's for lettuce and cottage cheese. Walked to the post office and mailed some cards. Had lunch, then took the bus to Telephone and walked to the Hill Road branch of the library to return the Stephen King book I no longer have any desire to read. From there, I went to the 99-Cent store for rice cakes and mushrooms.
I waited for the bus back, but then decided to walk to Ralph's to see if they had blueberries. I was about to walk into that shopping center when the bus came and I impulsively got on it. I had the idea I would ride to town and back--no particular reason, I was just at loose ends and unhappy. However, when I got to the transit center, I changed my mind again and just rode back to Victoria and walked home.
It was a down day and this morning, I have T.O.P.S. I'll either walk there or take a bus, but I'm just going to get weighed (to add to my low mood, I think I'm up), then leave before the meeting. Why? Because it will be the second half of Luisa's scam program. Actually, I shouldn't dignify it by writing "program"; she simply reads some crapola she got off the Internet. Since there are hundreds, if not thousands, of sites that have to do with weight loss, why I'm expected to sit through this is beyond me.
So I won't sit through it.
Thursday, May 09, 2019
Betty, The Museum, and H.H.
I've been slacking off lately and don't want it to become a habit, so did a truncated neighborhood walk before breakfast. After, I hopped on the bus to the transit center, then caught the usual 9:43 to Santa Barbara.
Got to Betty's two minutes early (11:28), which she noted, and I told her I had to leave right after lunch because I had an important appointment--Happy Hour at 4:00. We went down the street to the Natural Cafe--not one of my favorites, but it's close--and I had good grilled veggies and a Stella. Betty seemed fairly well with it, aside from a few lapses. She walked me up to State Street and the bus came almost immediately; I told her I'd stay longer next week when I come next Tuesday.
Got into town (S.B.) with some time to spare for the 2:20 bus back to Ventura, so I strolled around. I wandered into an attractive patio which, as it tuned out, was the back door to the Karpeles Museum. It's free, open to the public, and established and maintained by a couple from the area.
This was a find. It has manuscripts, including music ones, from practically the beginning of history. The literature says it's the world's largest private holding of original important documents and manuscripts. I can believe it, as they ranged from stone tablets to letters from Columbus, Fidel Castro's high school writing and yearbook, WWII documents, some of Handel's and Beethoven's musical manuscripts and many more. It has some dinosaur-related things, too, and the whole place is beautifully maintained and spotless. However, it's open only Wednesday to Sunday, so I'll have to come back another time to see more.
Got the 2:20 bus, which put me back in Ventura at 3:30. I got off about a mile ahead and walked up Main to The Mad Rose. I was there first, but Diane came soon after, then Carolyn (Nancy was still sticking to her knitting). We had a good time and, for a change, I ordered pasta, plus a Corona; the server also brought out warm, freshly-baked bread, of which I had too much.
Diane wants to do individual "counseling" to alert people to their futures or something and she wants to get paid for it. She said she's been trying to network with lots of other woman, but to join many organizations is too expensive. She asked if I'd partner with her and promote my acting classes.
Abso-lute-ly posi-toot-ly not. I don't coach individually and have no interest in doing so. I know I should get my act together and approach a few more independent living places about my course, but I just haven't done it. Well, some day...
We said goodbye about 5:30 and I walked to the library and got a book (And I Alone Survived), which I read years ago, but for some reason, wanted to again. Actually, that's a play on words from the bible, supposedly said by long-suffering Job: "And I only am escaped alone to tell thee," which I think is much more poetic and poignant When I think of my poor sister and brother, that comes into my head--I only am escaped from the curse of dementia--so far, anyway. (But then, so have Larry and Jim, I hope.)
Yesterday completed a full week of not driving.
The museum:
Got to Betty's two minutes early (11:28), which she noted, and I told her I had to leave right after lunch because I had an important appointment--Happy Hour at 4:00. We went down the street to the Natural Cafe--not one of my favorites, but it's close--and I had good grilled veggies and a Stella. Betty seemed fairly well with it, aside from a few lapses. She walked me up to State Street and the bus came almost immediately; I told her I'd stay longer next week when I come next Tuesday.
Got into town (S.B.) with some time to spare for the 2:20 bus back to Ventura, so I strolled around. I wandered into an attractive patio which, as it tuned out, was the back door to the Karpeles Museum. It's free, open to the public, and established and maintained by a couple from the area.
This was a find. It has manuscripts, including music ones, from practically the beginning of history. The literature says it's the world's largest private holding of original important documents and manuscripts. I can believe it, as they ranged from stone tablets to letters from Columbus, Fidel Castro's high school writing and yearbook, WWII documents, some of Handel's and Beethoven's musical manuscripts and many more. It has some dinosaur-related things, too, and the whole place is beautifully maintained and spotless. However, it's open only Wednesday to Sunday, so I'll have to come back another time to see more.
Got the 2:20 bus, which put me back in Ventura at 3:30. I got off about a mile ahead and walked up Main to The Mad Rose. I was there first, but Diane came soon after, then Carolyn (Nancy was still sticking to her knitting). We had a good time and, for a change, I ordered pasta, plus a Corona; the server also brought out warm, freshly-baked bread, of which I had too much.
Diane wants to do individual "counseling" to alert people to their futures or something and she wants to get paid for it. She said she's been trying to network with lots of other woman, but to join many organizations is too expensive. She asked if I'd partner with her and promote my acting classes.
Abso-lute-ly posi-toot-ly not. I don't coach individually and have no interest in doing so. I know I should get my act together and approach a few more independent living places about my course, but I just haven't done it. Well, some day...
We said goodbye about 5:30 and I walked to the library and got a book (And I Alone Survived), which I read years ago, but for some reason, wanted to again. Actually, that's a play on words from the bible, supposedly said by long-suffering Job: "And I only am escaped alone to tell thee," which I think is much more poetic and poignant When I think of my poor sister and brother, that comes into my head--I only am escaped from the curse of dementia--so far, anyway. (But then, so have Larry and Jim, I hope.)
Yesterday completed a full week of not driving.
The museum:
Wednesday, May 08, 2019
The Fuzz And Amanda
Set the alarm for, and got up at, 5:00. Coffee, computer, clothes, and I was out waiting for the Access van at 6:11. That got me to the doctor's office way early, but I just walked the neighborhood until my 7:15 appointment.
I was annoyed that the scale said 131.4, which meant several ounces up from Friday and the T.O.P.S. scale. Then two things occurred to me: 1.) I was wearing heavier clothes (although I insisted on taking my shoes off, as I alway do) and 2.) it's idiotic to obsess over a few ounces.
Anyway, doc said my blood count was slightly elevated and gave me one of those stool test kits. I had had a gastric ulcer three years ago and re that, I asked the doc for an RX for the omepra-something. I had been buying it OTC, but my insurance covers my medication, so why not go the free route?
Took the bus home and had breakfast only a half hour after my usual 8 am. After, I took the bus down Victoria, walked to Portola, and went to the police department to view the video of my traffic crime.
I couldn't see that the arrow had turned red--the picture was anything but sharp--but I was told it had, so I'll see what the judge has to say. Caught the bus back to Victoria, then to Telegraph, but had to wait quite a bit for both, so didn't have lunch until after 2:00.
Tidied up in preparation for Amanda, who got here about 5:30. I had a whole list of things I wanted to have fixed on this laptop and she completed them in about an hour and a half. I paid her, walked her out, and hope and expect my computer woes are over.
As for Amanda: You'd never guess it, but she's over forty, is somewhat tubby, and has lots of tattoos, She lives in Fillmore with her eleven-year-old daughter and another woman, who I think is her partner. She liked my place and might be interested in looking at an two-bedroom here.
I'm off to Santa Barbara today and this is my sixth day not driving.
I was annoyed that the scale said 131.4, which meant several ounces up from Friday and the T.O.P.S. scale. Then two things occurred to me: 1.) I was wearing heavier clothes (although I insisted on taking my shoes off, as I alway do) and 2.) it's idiotic to obsess over a few ounces.
Anyway, doc said my blood count was slightly elevated and gave me one of those stool test kits. I had had a gastric ulcer three years ago and re that, I asked the doc for an RX for the omepra-something. I had been buying it OTC, but my insurance covers my medication, so why not go the free route?
Took the bus home and had breakfast only a half hour after my usual 8 am. After, I took the bus down Victoria, walked to Portola, and went to the police department to view the video of my traffic crime.
I couldn't see that the arrow had turned red--the picture was anything but sharp--but I was told it had, so I'll see what the judge has to say. Caught the bus back to Victoria, then to Telegraph, but had to wait quite a bit for both, so didn't have lunch until after 2:00.
Tidied up in preparation for Amanda, who got here about 5:30. I had a whole list of things I wanted to have fixed on this laptop and she completed them in about an hour and a half. I paid her, walked her out, and hope and expect my computer woes are over.
As for Amanda: You'd never guess it, but she's over forty, is somewhat tubby, and has lots of tattoos, She lives in Fillmore with her eleven-year-old daughter and another woman, who I think is her partner. She liked my place and might be interested in looking at an two-bedroom here.
I'm off to Santa Barbara today and this is my sixth day not driving.
Tuesday, May 07, 2019
Widder Group Lunch
Skipped the morning walk, had breakfast late, did the crossword, then moseyed around for a bit. Called the Access Van to pick me up this morning for my 7:15 doctor appointment. I was told they'll be here between 6:09 and 6:30. Okay, I'm reconciled to possibly having to wait around when I go somewhere. I'll take the bus home.
Showered and dressed for the widder lunch and set off at 11:00. Instead of taking the bus, I walked down Victoria to Telephone (1.5 miles), then caught a bus the scant mile to the B & N shopping center. I was so early I stopped into Sprouts to see if they had anything I wanted. They didn't.
Continued on to Stone File Grille and, although it was still a little before noon, Vera, Gayle, Greg, and Susan were already there. I ordered my usual roasted cauliflower and Chief Peak, and settled in with one of my tribes.*
Carolyn came soon after, but Nancy didn't; nor did Stella, whom I had invited over the weekend. A newcomer, Sydney, whose husband had died of cirrhosis of the liver due to alcoholism, joined us. What a lovely person: young, pretty, very sweet; he died four years ago, when their children were 3 and 6--damn, that's unfortunate. Anyway, she said her therapist had recommended our group. She, Carolyn, Susan, Gayle, and I talked together openly and honestly. Carolyn's and Susan's husbands had both taken their own lives with guns, Gayle's and mine were ill for many years. Others lost their spouses or partners through accidents, but we all share a sorrow and it's good to be with them. The other Susan, the obnoxious one, came late and corralled me at the silverware station to rattle on about herself, her book, her blog, and other boring topics. Luckily, the seat next to me was taken, so she sat a distance away. A few of us lingered to talk (others had to get back to work), but we eventually said goodbye until we meet for dinner in two weeks.
I was going to go into town, but decided not. Amanda is coming at 5:30 today to clean up my laptop and I wanted to get the hard floors done. I doubt very much if she would notice or care, but they needed to be done, anyway. Did so, took all the area rugs to the wash place, and threw in my gardening gloves. I never put these things in the dryer, but spread them on the patio to dry; will put them back on the floors when I get home.
* We were talking about our "tribes" the other day at Happy Hour. Nancy said her tribe was the knitting club in which she so involved. I have the tribe I mentioned above and it occurred to me that I have another tribe: the bus riders. I know many can't afford a car, some have a disability, and there are other reasons, but there we are, united in some unknowable way, moving together inside a steel shell.
This is my fifth day without driving.
Showered and dressed for the widder lunch and set off at 11:00. Instead of taking the bus, I walked down Victoria to Telephone (1.5 miles), then caught a bus the scant mile to the B & N shopping center. I was so early I stopped into Sprouts to see if they had anything I wanted. They didn't.
Continued on to Stone File Grille and, although it was still a little before noon, Vera, Gayle, Greg, and Susan were already there. I ordered my usual roasted cauliflower and Chief Peak, and settled in with one of my tribes.*
Carolyn came soon after, but Nancy didn't; nor did Stella, whom I had invited over the weekend. A newcomer, Sydney, whose husband had died of cirrhosis of the liver due to alcoholism, joined us. What a lovely person: young, pretty, very sweet; he died four years ago, when their children were 3 and 6--damn, that's unfortunate. Anyway, she said her therapist had recommended our group. She, Carolyn, Susan, Gayle, and I talked together openly and honestly. Carolyn's and Susan's husbands had both taken their own lives with guns, Gayle's and mine were ill for many years. Others lost their spouses or partners through accidents, but we all share a sorrow and it's good to be with them. The other Susan, the obnoxious one, came late and corralled me at the silverware station to rattle on about herself, her book, her blog, and other boring topics. Luckily, the seat next to me was taken, so she sat a distance away. A few of us lingered to talk (others had to get back to work), but we eventually said goodbye until we meet for dinner in two weeks.
I was going to go into town, but decided not. Amanda is coming at 5:30 today to clean up my laptop and I wanted to get the hard floors done. I doubt very much if she would notice or care, but they needed to be done, anyway. Did so, took all the area rugs to the wash place, and threw in my gardening gloves. I never put these things in the dryer, but spread them on the patio to dry; will put them back on the floors when I get home.
* We were talking about our "tribes" the other day at Happy Hour. Nancy said her tribe was the knitting club in which she so involved. I have the tribe I mentioned above and it occurred to me that I have another tribe: the bus riders. I know many can't afford a car, some have a disability, and there are other reasons, but there we are, united in some unknowable way, moving together inside a steel shell.
This is my fifth day without driving.
Monday, May 06, 2019
Cinco de Mayo
Another day that turned out to be busy and fun. Just took a short neighborhood walk at 7:00; on the way back, I went through Von's. There's a Starbucks in the store and I saw a small bin with a sign: "Free coffee for your garden." I had seen this before and thought I'd bring a container and ladle or something, but I looked in and saw a large, neatly wrapped bag; asked the server if I could have it, she said "sure," and off I went with about ten pounds of coffee grounds. On the bag, it said it's good for nitrate-loving plants, so I'll look and see which of mine will benefit.
Finally got a pile of papers filed and did a few other household chores. Had lunch a little early (12:30), put my three library books to return (I'm still sloggin through the Rock Hudson bio) in my nylon bag, and took off for town. Dropped off the books and walked to The Promenade.
Since it was a nice Sunday (mostly sunny and reasonably warm, although not warm enough for sun-loving me), there were lots of people happily walking by the ocean. There were even a few in the water--good grief, it must have been frigid--and of course, plenty of surfers.
As I walked up to the Crown Plaza, I heard and saw lots of people on their viranda--it was the Cinco de Mayo celebration! I had suggested to Diane we go, but she didn't pick up on it and I forgot about it, but here it was. However, I was by myself and didn't want to attend alone.
I thought of Stella and impulsively called her. Darned if she wasn't at the museum and said she'd walk right down. She did, we went in, and had a fine time. There was a roving mariachi playing and singing all kinds of Mexican songs; the accordian player and guitarist were identical twins! I think the other two may have been their father and grandfather.
Anyway, they came to our table and asked what we'd like to hear. Stella responded, of course, as she's Latino and speaks Spanish and they played her song.
This made her cry because she and her Arthur used to like it (although Arthur wasn't Latino). She apologized, but I assured her she had no reason to--it's all right to cry because your husband died, and it's been less than a year for her.
I had not one, but two Margaritas--yum, they were good--and we had chips and salsa gratis. There was an all-you-could-eat taco bar for only twelve bucks, but we had each had lunch, so we skipped that. We finally left and walked up to the library together, then parted and Stella got her car, which was parked at the mission (she goes to mass there) while I caught the bus.
Instead of going straight home, I disembarked at the mall, went to Target to use the restroom and buy blueberries, then hopped a number 6 and rode down Victoria. Got off and went to the store for grapes and rice cakes, then bussed back. Called El, who has a bad cold and had called in sick for today--good. Got in just at 7:00--I love daylight saving time!--and settled down for the night.
This is my fourth full day not driving.
(Good grief, I slept until 7:10 this morning! I may want to adjust my usual schedule.)
Finally got a pile of papers filed and did a few other household chores. Had lunch a little early (12:30), put my three library books to return (I'm still sloggin through the Rock Hudson bio) in my nylon bag, and took off for town. Dropped off the books and walked to The Promenade.
Since it was a nice Sunday (mostly sunny and reasonably warm, although not warm enough for sun-loving me), there were lots of people happily walking by the ocean. There were even a few in the water--good grief, it must have been frigid--and of course, plenty of surfers.
As I walked up to the Crown Plaza, I heard and saw lots of people on their viranda--it was the Cinco de Mayo celebration! I had suggested to Diane we go, but she didn't pick up on it and I forgot about it, but here it was. However, I was by myself and didn't want to attend alone.
I thought of Stella and impulsively called her. Darned if she wasn't at the museum and said she'd walk right down. She did, we went in, and had a fine time. There was a roving mariachi playing and singing all kinds of Mexican songs; the accordian player and guitarist were identical twins! I think the other two may have been their father and grandfather.
Anyway, they came to our table and asked what we'd like to hear. Stella responded, of course, as she's Latino and speaks Spanish and they played her song.
This made her cry because she and her Arthur used to like it (although Arthur wasn't Latino). She apologized, but I assured her she had no reason to--it's all right to cry because your husband died, and it's been less than a year for her.
I had not one, but two Margaritas--yum, they were good--and we had chips and salsa gratis. There was an all-you-could-eat taco bar for only twelve bucks, but we had each had lunch, so we skipped that. We finally left and walked up to the library together, then parted and Stella got her car, which was parked at the mission (she goes to mass there) while I caught the bus.
Instead of going straight home, I disembarked at the mall, went to Target to use the restroom and buy blueberries, then hopped a number 6 and rode down Victoria. Got off and went to the store for grapes and rice cakes, then bussed back. Called El, who has a bad cold and had called in sick for today--good. Got in just at 7:00--I love daylight saving time!--and settled down for the night.
This is my fourth full day not driving.
(Good grief, I slept until 7:10 this morning! I may want to adjust my usual schedule.)
Sunday, May 05, 2019
Stella And The Gardens
Didn't walk before breakfast, as I knew I'd be getting plenty in later. After, I did a load of wash with all that entails, then wrote out Mothers Day cards. As the wash dried (45 minutes), I had time to take the Singapore and Tokyo ones to the post office; that constituted my morning walk.
I called Stella, as she had said she'd like to see me on Saturday. She's pretty vague and I wasn't sure what she had in mind. When I called, she was on the train in L.A. and suggested I meet her at the train station when it arrived at 1:40. Fine by me and I took my usual bus, got off at the library, walked to The Promenade, then to the station.
We got in her car--actually, her late husband's small truck, as she didn't want to leave her car in the lot overnight and I don't blame her--and she asked if I'd like to go up to the newly opened botanic gardens. I would and we did.
The gardens had been completely burned in the fire last year and is just getting restored. It's high up over City Hall and is just beautiful. It costs $7 to get in, but Stella bought a $75 family pass, which got me in, too. All kinds of native plants, labeled drought resistant, are planted here, plus they sell the same kinds. Stella loved an unusual flowering succulent from Chile, but unfortunately, they didn't sell that one. I was wowed by a very high set of stairs, made of native rock, which you can climb to the top of the ridge. However, Stella didn't think her knees would take them, so we didn't go up. I definitely want to do that and will see if Ellen and Greg might want to go. Come to think of it, I'll ask Suzanne, too.
By the time we left, it was almost 3:00 and we were both hungry. so
we went to the Blue Agave for lunch. I had an excellent "flautas" with a good Mexican lager, and we both enjoyed a guacamole appetizer. We stayed until 4:00, after which Stella invited me to her house in Ojai. That had been our original plan, but I just didn't feel like it, so declined with thanks. She asked if I could come over today, but I must get some paperwork, mostly filing, done and I wasn't really anxious to see her two days in a row. I did urge her to go to Soaring Spirits (widder group) for lunch tomorrow, and will go to her place another time.
I walked around town a bit, then caught a bus. Called Ellen to see if Greg was working and finally, yes, he was, so I stayed on and went to Oxnard. Stopped at Target for blueberries, then at Whole Foods and saw Greg--I'm always pleased that he's happy to see me and gives me a hug--and we chatted a bit. Said goodbye, caught the three buses back to Ventura and got in a little after 7:00. It was a good, active day and I enjoyed it.
Yesterday was my third full day without driving.
I called Stella, as she had said she'd like to see me on Saturday. She's pretty vague and I wasn't sure what she had in mind. When I called, she was on the train in L.A. and suggested I meet her at the train station when it arrived at 1:40. Fine by me and I took my usual bus, got off at the library, walked to The Promenade, then to the station.
We got in her car--actually, her late husband's small truck, as she didn't want to leave her car in the lot overnight and I don't blame her--and she asked if I'd like to go up to the newly opened botanic gardens. I would and we did.
The gardens had been completely burned in the fire last year and is just getting restored. It's high up over City Hall and is just beautiful. It costs $7 to get in, but Stella bought a $75 family pass, which got me in, too. All kinds of native plants, labeled drought resistant, are planted here, plus they sell the same kinds. Stella loved an unusual flowering succulent from Chile, but unfortunately, they didn't sell that one. I was wowed by a very high set of stairs, made of native rock, which you can climb to the top of the ridge. However, Stella didn't think her knees would take them, so we didn't go up. I definitely want to do that and will see if Ellen and Greg might want to go. Come to think of it, I'll ask Suzanne, too.
By the time we left, it was almost 3:00 and we were both hungry. so
we went to the Blue Agave for lunch. I had an excellent "flautas" with a good Mexican lager, and we both enjoyed a guacamole appetizer. We stayed until 4:00, after which Stella invited me to her house in Ojai. That had been our original plan, but I just didn't feel like it, so declined with thanks. She asked if I could come over today, but I must get some paperwork, mostly filing, done and I wasn't really anxious to see her two days in a row. I did urge her to go to Soaring Spirits (widder group) for lunch tomorrow, and will go to her place another time.
I walked around town a bit, then caught a bus. Called Ellen to see if Greg was working and finally, yes, he was, so I stayed on and went to Oxnard. Stopped at Target for blueberries, then at Whole Foods and saw Greg--I'm always pleased that he's happy to see me and gives me a hug--and we chatted a bit. Said goodbye, caught the three buses back to Ventura and got in a little after 7:00. It was a good, active day and I enjoyed it.
Yesterday was my third full day without driving.
Saturday, May 04, 2019
T.O.P.S. And The Museum
Walked the neighborhood. Dressed and caught the bus for Ashwood Avenue and T.O.P.S. I was satisfied with 130.7, up a tenth of a pound (4 ounces?) from last week. Luisa had the program, for which she read an ever-so-familiar and deadly dull article on scams. Scams? But isn't this a weight loss group? Why yes, but we don't bother our heads with that, now do we?
After, I bussed home, not arriving and getting breakfast until almost 11:00. This could be a major problem if I relinquish my car, but I'll deal with it. After, I caught the number 6 bus to the 99-Cent Store (actually, most of the goods are multiples of 99 cents) and bought grapes. Stopped at Vons for rhomaine and oranges. By the time I got back, it was almost 3:00. Had lunch, showered, and dressed for the museum. I met Diane at 5:30 and we went into the reception.
What a spread! They had a great buffet of meatballs stroganoff, puff patties, all kinds of cheeses and crackers, rounds of cucumbers with tuna paste, berries, little wedges of melon, and lots of other tasties. Besides all this, there was wine, of which Diane and I availed ourselves, you can be sure. For members, it was free, incredibly enough, and I'm a member, so whee--!
Diane's friend, Susan, also came, and we ate together, then toured the small exhibit of women's art (called something or other I don't' remember), which consisted of small boxes with various themes. It was okay, but is it art? Dunno and nobody seems to have figured that out.
I stayed until 7:00, then left to get the bus, which didn't come for an annoyingly long time, so I didn't actually get in my door until after 8:00. One of the days, I'll have to check the schedule.
After, I bussed home, not arriving and getting breakfast until almost 11:00. This could be a major problem if I relinquish my car, but I'll deal with it. After, I caught the number 6 bus to the 99-Cent Store (actually, most of the goods are multiples of 99 cents) and bought grapes. Stopped at Vons for rhomaine and oranges. By the time I got back, it was almost 3:00. Had lunch, showered, and dressed for the museum. I met Diane at 5:30 and we went into the reception.
What a spread! They had a great buffet of meatballs stroganoff, puff patties, all kinds of cheeses and crackers, rounds of cucumbers with tuna paste, berries, little wedges of melon, and lots of other tasties. Besides all this, there was wine, of which Diane and I availed ourselves, you can be sure. For members, it was free, incredibly enough, and I'm a member, so whee--!
Diane's friend, Susan, also came, and we ate together, then toured the small exhibit of women's art (called something or other I don't' remember), which consisted of small boxes with various themes. It was okay, but is it art? Dunno and nobody seems to have figured that out.
I stayed until 7:00, then left to get the bus, which didn't come for an annoyingly long time, so I didn't actually get in my door until after 8:00. One of the days, I'll have to check the schedule.
Friday, May 03, 2019
Traffic School And Oxnard
I didn't set the alarm and didn't get up until after 7, out of sorts and gloomy. However, I pulled myself pretty much out of it and walked the neighborhood after my coffee and Internet. After breakfast, I forced myself to sit down with the on-line traffic school. The damn thing is pretty extensive and written in a kind of teeny-bopper prose; it includes lots of exclamation points and a fair number of errors. However, although it was long, I got through it, then was confronted with the exam. Did I want to take it then or wait a while? I figured I'd take it--you get a chance to do it again if you don't pass, passing being 18 right out of 25.
I took it and passed with 24 correct. It was so laughably easy, I shouldn't have worried so much about it. (The one I got wrong was the size of the DUI fine, and I don't intend ever to find out what that is.)
After, I moved two plants from one side of the garden to the other. When I took my trash and paper to the recycling area, I noticed a jester sculpture someone has left there for anyone to take. I did and put it in back of little Al-El:
Had lunch, then set off for my daily sojourn, but this time, I took the bus to Oxnard. Again, Greg was off, but I walked around and stopped at Target for blueberries. Home at 5:00 and I called Ellen to tell her of my triumphant Traffic School success (ha!).
Got an e-mail from Diane, suggesting we go to an art show at the museum at 5:30 today--it includes a wine reception and, since I'm a member, is free for me. Yes, undeedy, she didn't have to ask me twice.
Texted Amanda from Cricket and we made a date to have her come and clean up my laptop on Tuesday afternoon.
I took it and passed with 24 correct. It was so laughably easy, I shouldn't have worried so much about it. (The one I got wrong was the size of the DUI fine, and I don't intend ever to find out what that is.)
After, I moved two plants from one side of the garden to the other. When I took my trash and paper to the recycling area, I noticed a jester sculpture someone has left there for anyone to take. I did and put it in back of little Al-El:
Got an e-mail from Diane, suggesting we go to an art show at the museum at 5:30 today--it includes a wine reception and, since I'm a member, is free for me. Yes, undeedy, she didn't have to ask me twice.
Texted Amanda from Cricket and we made a date to have her come and clean up my laptop on Tuesday afternoon.
Thursday, May 02, 2019
Crown Plaza H.H.
Just to do a trial run of not driving, I decided to go a week without getting behind the wheel. At 7:00, I walked about a mile in the neighborhood, which was fine.
Finally examined more closely the two documents re my traffic sin and saw I have to go to the clerk's office before 12:45 to be on the docket at 1:30. Will do, but I'm not sure when.
Had breakfast, then walked down Victoria to Telephone, which I know is a mile and a bit, then got the bus for the Winco center. Crossed from there and wento Bed, Bath & Beyond, looking for two things I had seen on line that they didn't have.
Stopped at Cricket to ask Amanda a few things about my phone. She corrected a lot and explained others. On impulse, I asked if she'd clean up this laptop for fifty bucks. She would, indeed, and she'll call me to make a date. Home, had lunch, then left for the Crown Plaza and Happy Hour.
We had a good time, but I thought the service was abysmal and the buffalo cauliflower I had wasn't very good. Nancy brought one each of several socks she's knitted as part of her knitting club challenge--well, whatever turns you on. I suggested Lure next time, but Nancy asked if we could defer until the week after, as she may be too involved with knitting to attend. Carolyn suggested we look at places we hadn't been, and I volunteered to scout some out.
We stayed until 5:30, said goodbye. I headed toward the library and, on the way, stopped into four establishments to get happy hour menus (or to take a picture of some I couldn't take out). Stayed at the library for about an hour, then hopped a bus and got home at 7:00.
I didn't set the alarm last night, stayed up until almost 10, and just got up at 6:40. I'm not too perky this morning and know I'll feel better after I put the bloody traffic thing behind me.
Finally examined more closely the two documents re my traffic sin and saw I have to go to the clerk's office before 12:45 to be on the docket at 1:30. Will do, but I'm not sure when.
Had breakfast, then walked down Victoria to Telephone, which I know is a mile and a bit, then got the bus for the Winco center. Crossed from there and wento Bed, Bath & Beyond, looking for two things I had seen on line that they didn't have.
Stopped at Cricket to ask Amanda a few things about my phone. She corrected a lot and explained others. On impulse, I asked if she'd clean up this laptop for fifty bucks. She would, indeed, and she'll call me to make a date. Home, had lunch, then left for the Crown Plaza and Happy Hour.
We had a good time, but I thought the service was abysmal and the buffalo cauliflower I had wasn't very good. Nancy brought one each of several socks she's knitted as part of her knitting club challenge--well, whatever turns you on. I suggested Lure next time, but Nancy asked if we could defer until the week after, as she may be too involved with knitting to attend. Carolyn suggested we look at places we hadn't been, and I volunteered to scout some out.
We stayed until 5:30, said goodbye. I headed toward the library and, on the way, stopped into four establishments to get happy hour menus (or to take a picture of some I couldn't take out). Stayed at the library for about an hour, then hopped a bus and got home at 7:00.
I didn't set the alarm last night, stayed up until almost 10, and just got up at 6:40. I'm not too perky this morning and know I'll feel better after I put the bloody traffic thing behind me.
Wednesday, May 01, 2019
Twin Tuesday
When I got up, my relief over the relatively (but only relatively) unhorrible Superior Count letter had dissipated and I was again down in the dumps. I decided I would try not driving for--say, a week, and see how that felt. Therefore, I walked around here in the morning, totalling a mile and a bit more.
Had breakfast and left for Santa Barbara at 9:00.
As always, via three buses, I got to Betty's door at 11:30. We sat down and chatted and I borrowed a sweater, as it was chilly. I asked if she was game to walk to the mall and go to Lure, one of my favorite restaurants. She was and we did.
It was jammed and very noisy, so we sat on the patio, which happily, is heated. Got my new fave, "hazy" beer, this one called "White Rascal" for some odd reason, and a yummy ahi sandwich. This is fresh tuna steak, seared on the outside and otherwise raw. A lot of people would think it was gross, but I love it, maybe because I had it first in Hawaii. Anyway, we talked and laughed, and it was like old times.
Almost. It's always almost.
Walked Betty back to her place. She was going to the little gathering they have at 2:00 o'clock, but I begged off. She walked me halfway to State Street, we hugged goodbye, and I got the bus for downtown. Had to wait a bit for the Coastal Express, which takes me back to Ventura, but that was okay. Got it and Ellen called while I was riding.
She had read my blog and knew about the ticket. I said it had probably crystallized my decision to give up my car, she encouraged me and we had a long talk. I felt a lot better about it after I spoke to her.
I had seen on my phone that Sprouts had blueberries for 98 cents a 6 ounce container, a great price, especially for expensive them. That made me decide not to disembark at the last stop, the government complex, where I got another to Sprout's. Caught a bus to Victoria. where I was going to get another, but decided to walk and I did. I was pleased that I had gotten at least four miles in for the day, possibly more.
Didn't get home until almost 7:00 and immediately changed into my jammies and relaxed for the night.
Had breakfast and left for Santa Barbara at 9:00.
As always, via three buses, I got to Betty's door at 11:30. We sat down and chatted and I borrowed a sweater, as it was chilly. I asked if she was game to walk to the mall and go to Lure, one of my favorite restaurants. She was and we did.
It was jammed and very noisy, so we sat on the patio, which happily, is heated. Got my new fave, "hazy" beer, this one called "White Rascal" for some odd reason, and a yummy ahi sandwich. This is fresh tuna steak, seared on the outside and otherwise raw. A lot of people would think it was gross, but I love it, maybe because I had it first in Hawaii. Anyway, we talked and laughed, and it was like old times.
Almost. It's always almost.
Walked Betty back to her place. She was going to the little gathering they have at 2:00 o'clock, but I begged off. She walked me halfway to State Street, we hugged goodbye, and I got the bus for downtown. Had to wait a bit for the Coastal Express, which takes me back to Ventura, but that was okay. Got it and Ellen called while I was riding.
She had read my blog and knew about the ticket. I said it had probably crystallized my decision to give up my car, she encouraged me and we had a long talk. I felt a lot better about it after I spoke to her.
I had seen on my phone that Sprouts had blueberries for 98 cents a 6 ounce container, a great price, especially for expensive them. That made me decide not to disembark at the last stop, the government complex, where I got another to Sprout's. Caught a bus to Victoria. where I was going to get another, but decided to walk and I did. I was pleased that I had gotten at least four miles in for the day, possibly more.
Didn't get home until almost 7:00 and immediately changed into my jammies and relaxed for the night.
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TUESDAY
I started off the morning with some annoying problems with Amazon Japan re Christmas gifts, but I don't want to go into detail. Left at...
