The Illuminati And The Virus

I texted Gail early on to ask if she'd park on Hill Street, rather than drive into the complex, and she did. We did our five-mile walk again and I greatly enjoyed it.
I'm afraid, however, that I find Gail a bit tedious. She's one of those people who have absolutely no sense of humor and, seemingly, no idea of how to judge whether to obey "authority" or make up her own mind in various situations. However, she's okay to be with otherwise, I guess, and we made a date to walk tomorrow, too. (She rides her bike on Tuesday, many more miles than we walk).
El called while we were out to tell me about a site she reads which assures us that the Illuminati or whomever, would shut down the Internet and phones sometime between April 1 and Easter. Television would work and, presumably, we'd get instructions from that. Ellen doesn't necessarily  believe that, nor do I, but if it has to do with the evil government, shadow or otherwise, I won't discount it.
Met up with Andrea and Lauren and little Brindley outside and we chatted a bit. Nancy called and we chatted for a bit. For the first time in weeks, she went outside--to the pharmacy at 8:00 am to pick up her prescriptions.
After lunch, I cut up three zucchinis I had bought at Von's on Sunday, and put them in the slow cooker with chopped onions and seasonings. I actually sat outside on the patio for a bit, reading my germ book, which continues to be fascinating.
After I went in, I was surprised to find a message on my phone from Don S., a friend of my son, Mike's. He was cautioning me to take the virus threat seriously. He added several other cautions about it and I was nonplussed; I wondered if this was a hoax or a hack. Anyway, we exchanged messages back and forth for a few minutes and the upshot was that I called him. Yes, the messages were from him, he was just concerned about me, and so on. We talked for almost an hour, mostly about Covid-19, a topic which is getting old, dammit,  However, I like Don a lot and enjoyed talkiing to him. He hasn't had the easiest life--his mother left when he was an infant--and I was glad to talk to him. Since he lives in Jersey, it will probably a long time before I see him, if ever.
Had a vegan dinner, consisting of the cabbage and apple dish, turnips, which I had prepared on Sunday, and the zucchini. Yum, yum, and I want to do this more often.
 

My Schedule And Germs

It occurred to me that I need to set a new, tentative schedule. In the old days--pre-virus--I didn't actually follow one, exactly, but often did the same things at roughly the same times. My mealtime I do follow pretty religiously with breakfast at 8, lunch at 1, and dinner at 6. (I can eat after those time, but not before.) However, I was always ready to put into motion my policy: "never turn down an invitation," if something fun came up. On regular days, though, I'd walk down Victoria in the morning and go into town in the afternoon on the bus.
Well, that's over for now, but I'll probably follow loosely what I did yesterday: After breakfast, I talked on the phone, then walked over to Von's in this getup:

(I had the mask left over from the Thomas fire two years ago.) I got lettuce, cabbage, a big, fat apple, and Dave's Killer Bread. Prepared the lettuce for my lunch salad, cut up the cabbage and apple and put them in the slow cooker, and tidied up a bit. After lunch, I took off over the footbridge and followed the same route Gail and I had on Friday, putting in roughly five miles. It was a gorgeous day, sunny and fairly warm, although the wind blew up here and there.

I had called Ellen earlier to ask about how to hand renting an DVD from Amazon and she educated me. I then called my old Sunrise Bay friend and neighbor, Susan G., and we talked for more than an hour. I was surprised to hear the exercise group was still meeting at the clubhouse--I kind of doubt  the office people are in.
I just started the following and it's fabulous; I bought when we went to Bart's Books while Patrick was here:

I was incredibly ignorant and this is eye-opening, especially HOW MANY germs are in the body. According the Dr. Tierno, "There are more germs in our bodies than there are stars in the sky, some thousand billion germs per gram of matter...the combined weight of microscopic germs exceeds the combined weight of all living animals and plants." It boggles the mind! I'm only up to the fourth chapter and can't wait to continue.

Texted Gail and we'll walk again in a few hours.

Telephone

My niece, Joan, called me in the morning and we had a long talk. She and her husband, Jim, live in Manhattan, which seems a wonderfully exotic and interesting lifestyle to me. Joan is very active and had just come from the long walk in Central Park.
That put me in the mood to talk, so I called my friend, Aline, in Little Egg Harbor, and we brought each other up to date. I was alarmed to hear that her great-nephew, who is a college sophomore and lives in north Jersey, was tested and has been diagnosed with the virus. He was advised not to go to the hospital, but to be treated at home (no wonder!); happily, because he's young and healthy, the prognosis is good. Aline lives with her sister, Susan, and they've been eating a lot of take-out, such as pizza and so on. (Seems to me more a danger than the virus!)
Checked my mail and saw Suzanne drive in. We chatted--virtuously six feet away--at the mail boxes. She's going into the office at St. John's to go over her files and so on; the medical education classes she conducts have been suspended, of course. I went out for a short walk around the neighborhood after that, covering maybe a mile and a half, if that.
Called some loved ones, including Ellen, with whom I had a long talk and video visit on Zoom. I had been trying to set up Zoom for a virtual Happy Hour meeting, and El and I managed to do it, but now I'm not so sure it's feasible with Nancy and Carolyn. We'll see. El took exception to me allowing Gail to come in and use the bathroom on Friday and we had a long discussion about that. I'm not so sure if my two pals are up for a Zoom visit--or, for that matter, that I am.

Walking And Filing

Gail got here a bit before 9:00 and we started off over the footbridge, then onto the bike/walking path, which led us to Kimball Park. According to Google Maps, that's a distance of two miles We went around about half the park walk, then back, so totaled at least five, or maybe a bit more than that. Very satisfying, especially since we went in the morning and it was a beautiful day. We agreed to do it again on Monday. I don't think there's a problem with this, virus-wise, as we were out in the open air, didn't touch each other, and left some space in between. Also, more significant or not, neither of us was coughing or sneezing.
I called Suzanne Nextdoor just to see how she was doing and we had a good talk. Walked over to Von's for romaine, zucchini, and a nice, plump turnip (haven't had one for ages). I noticed that my cashier had gloves and a mask on, the bagger just gloves. When I asked the cashier if management had given them out, I was told no, their union had provided the gloves and it was her own mask. It's incredible, it seems to me, that there and at Wal-Mart--and, presumably, at many other places--management isn't providing gloves and masks to their employees. Boggles the mind.
I ran into one of my old walking Kimball buddies,
Called Ellen after lunch and we chatted. She suggested that those I used to meet for either happy hour or lunch (actually, just Nancy and Carolyn B.) might set up Zoom and "get together" virtually. Actually, that's not a bad idea; we could each pour ourselves a glass of wine (in Nancy's case), beer (in mine), or a fancy mixed drink (Carolyn). Only problem is, I don't know how to zoom and I doubt if the two do, either. However, I think I'll pursue it.
Finally heard back from Bianca and sent her my selection for the new filing cabinet. However, the company--not the apartment owners, but LEK, which installed the washer and dryer--have to order it, bring it in and take out the old one. The problem is, they aren't working until, Bianca said, mid April or the end of April. Damn, that means I'll have the files still piled on and under the chair all that time. However, I acquiesced and will just have to live with it.
Speaking of filing--income tax! I know the deadline's extended, but I don't want it hanging over my head until July. I must steel myself, gather the rest of the info to Michelle soon.

The Closet And The Stir-Fry And Activities In Between

It turned out to be not a bad day. I actually started on the bedroom closet, which was crammed with all manner of things. Did I finish it? HA! I didn't even think of attempting that. What I did was to clear out, then re-arrange items on about one fourth of the far end, but I made a dent in it. Here's before, when I had everything piled on the bed, and after:

Anyway, in between this, I got a text from first daughter that they were back in NM; a text from Jeanne Dollard P. about the virus; and spoke on the phone to Noreen, Betty, and Gail. She and I made a date to walk the footbridge an adjoining path this morning, figuring we'd stay six feet apart, of course. I called the Access Van just to find out if they're running and, surprisingly, they are--to doctor's offices and food stores, but as a last resort, I could request one.

I picked out my filing cabinet (from Wayfair) and left a message for Bianca, but haven't heard back from her yet about ordering and delivery. Ellen then called and asked if I wanted to go to Wal-Mart. Is the Pope..?--of course, I did, and we went. El bought a lot of stuff and so did I: canned goods, dish detergent, and--happy day--two bags of fresh spinach (Von's hasn't had any). 

When we got home, El helped me take my groceries in and we chatted for a bit. She suggested I call her when I need something and she'd go out and get it, then leave it at my door "so you don't have to go to Von's." The fact is, though, I like going to Von's. Maybe someday it will come to me having to be in all the time, but I'll deal that when it comes.

I met the new upstairs neighbor, whose name is Leah, and we had a nice talk. She's--get this--a pathology technician in the medical examiner's office--wow! She just moved in last week, directly above me, and I liked her a lot.

Cooked  up my signature ground turkey stir-fry for dinner, applesauce on the side.

Thursday

After breakfast, I changed the bed, washed the sheets, and re-made with the other set.
Called Nancy and we had a nice chat. She, of course, has literally not set foot outside the door since this crises began, but that isn't too different from her usual. Called Betty and ditto with her. She insisted she's "not allowed" to go out, even to walk around the block.
I thought I'd make apple sauce with  my remaining six apples, so I got out the apple peeler/slicer/corer thing I had foolishly bought a year or so again. I couldn't put the damn thing together and, frankly, I think it's more trouble than it's worth, so I re-boxed it and put it with my donation stuff. Prepared the apples the old-fashioned way by coring, peeling, and chunking myself. They just fit in the smaller slow cooker and boy, did they smell good cooking away with the apple/cinnamon perfume.
I got a message, then email from my cousin's wife, Linda, telling me of their son's tragic--well, I guess they're all tragic--suicide six years ago. I was able to find an obituary with his picture--what a handsome young man! His name was "Annan," which I had never heard of before. I thought it was Irish, but it's Scottish; however, I read there's a place called Annan in Ireland. I wrote back to her, mentioned Betty's similar sorrow, Jay, who was 31 when he died.
After lunch, I took off for Smart 'n' Final (odious name!). It was good to walk, but it was extremely windy; I had to hold my hat on. Got lettuce and the very last container of napkins on the shelf, then walked home, a total of 2.4 miles I was glad to get in.
Dropped the stuff off, then went over to Von's for grapes and a nice three-piece container of chicken quarters. I like to season and roast them, then eat one and wrap the others to freeze. Had the leftover salmon, plus cauliflower and broccoli, along with the yummy warm applesauce I had made.
Today, I am determined, if it kills me, to at least start tackling the big closet. My strategy is to do section by section and I'll start with the far end, which includes a bunch of---well, stuff.
Good grief, I just looked and it's 41 degrees! No fair!

By Myself

My first order of business was deciding whether to mope and cry all day or not. Not.
So after breakfast, I gathered up the whites to wash, again pleased that I could choose a large, small, or medium load. While they were drying, I got my little cart and trekked over to Von's. I bought considerably more than was on my list, including frozen food which I want in case I run out of fresh; coffee, although I have almost a full large can; and--bowing to the present situation--disposable latex gloves. Also got fresh goodies: broccoli, mushrooms and a nice head of cauliflower.
Home, I cut up the latter and put it in the smaller slow cooker, along with the veggie "juice" I always save, mindful of the vitamins therein.  Prepared the mushrooms for stir-fly, trimmed the broccoli, and got some swordfish out of the freezer.
After lunch, I walked over the footbridge to the Hill Street branch of the library, although I knew it was closed. Walked back, so I got in about two miles, but that's not much.
Happily, El called shortly I got in to tell me she and the Tokyo visitors left at 7:00 am for LAX and they got off with no problem. She said it was quick and quiet driving the 101 to L.A., although it's usually a madhouse. We talked about the virus, too, of course, and damn, that subject is getting old for me already.
I puttered around here and there until 5:00 or so , when I put my swordfish in the oven and stir-fried onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Had the preceding for din-din, along with a nice helping of broccoli and another of carrots.
Played Solitaire after, then my usual games until 8:00, when I settled in with Will & Grace. Today, I plan to consolidate the things I'm donating to Goodwill, then walk to Smart 'n' Final, just to get out.

Last Day

Well, they're gone.
We had another wonderful day. It rained in the morning, but after that, it was Mr. K. weather: blue skies, white, white clouds, but with some blustering wind adding zest.  He is about the most intelligent, energetic, talkative, sweetly mischievous, inventive, endlessly curious six-year-old I've ever known.  And he's beautiful, too.
I was picked up in the morning and we drove to The Promenade to meet them. Down to the beach we went and K. and his auntie made a cairn:

We strolled along for a bit, then walked the pier:

Back to El's and the couple, the beautiful boy, and I walked to the Frosty Cone and bought various  back for lunch. Sinner that I am, I had a double cheeseburger and, since I almost never eat read meat, it was sublime. 

The couple and K. then went to a nearby preserve to swing: 

Auntie A. and I met up with them there, then stayed with Mr. K. while they went to a store and bought--among other important items--a kazoo. (Don't ask!)

Later, we had a pick-up dinner, lots of talk in two languages, and fun for all of us.  Beforehand, my DIL's pictures--so much better than mine!--were put on Ellen's laptop and I spent about twenty minutes view them. I'll be able to see them on Google Photos here, too.

We had a pick-up dinner, then said goodbye about 8:00. 

I know this is short and not terribly interesting, but I'm not in the mood to modify.  As I write, my darling boy and his family are being driven to L.A. to start the long, long flight home. His dear sister will be leaving for home and husband this morning, too.  She spent so much of the time ferrying me around, without ever complaining it was a burder. At least, I plan to see her in June, if all goes well, but when will I see the others? Okay, I'm going to remember they came, they are well, and we had a wonderful time.   

But I'm bereft. 

Sunday

We had planned to go to The Promenade, where we wanted to--well, promenade--but were rained out. That was disappointing, but the real bad news came later:  I was picked up at 10ish and told the Japanese government had decided that those coming back from another country would be quarantined in a hotel for two weeks. Son and family are scheduled to fly back tomorrow, but he searched for an earlier flight. Couldn't find anything for less than ten thousand dollars a ticket--I kid you not--and, since the mandate doesn't go into effect until seven hours after they arrive, they should be okay.
We had lunch at El's, then since. DIL needed to buy a few more things, we went to Target, Wal-Mart, and Trader Joe's, then back to my place.
In the meantime, older daughter went to The Promenade and constructed a cairn, plus walked for several hours. The plan had been for the rest of us to meet her there, but by the time shopping was finished at 4:00, the rain had started and, instead, we met back at my place.
I had picked up three frozen pizzas and when I went to put them in the oven, I dropped the pepperoni one out of the back of the rack, which made a pretty mess. However, my girls cleaned it up,  pizzas were cooked, I quickly cored four apples, added sugar and cinnamon, and baked them in the microwave for dessert.
Son did all kinds of things to my laptop to clean it up or whatever and Mr. K. watched more of Shirley Temple in Baby Takes A Bow,  a truly bizarre 1934 movie. Son Mike face-timed from Singapore on Ellen's phone and we all talked and visited with him and Vivian (Violet was at school, as it was 8:00 am on Monday for them.)
We then had our pizza and baked apples, talked and laughed and checked the weather. It said rain in the afternoon, so we decided to go to The Promenade this morning, for all except El and me, their last full day here...
HA! Just got up at 6:30 and it's raining!

Shelf Road

Another full and fully rewarding day.
Walked the two mile back-and-forth to the market in the morning, then was picked up at 12:30 and we were off.
It was beautifully warm in Ventura, but on our way to Shelf Road, we were concerned about the dark, low-hanging clouds over our destination in Ojai:

However, they turned out benign and we had a wonderful time. Here's the description:
Shelf Road Trail is a 3.5 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Ojai, California that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. 

At one point, El and I continued on the gently-rising main trail and the intrepid others climbed up a side trail--oh, yes, including the six-year-old, the went to the top and over the crest (see the other four above). After we met up again, Mr. K. took a picture of his dinosaur on a cairn:

There were lots of others on the trail, including family groups, runners, and--incredibly, considering the terrain, bicyclists; we even saw a crazy kid on a unicycle!

On the way back to El's, we stopped at the Maricopa Tail, which is within walking distance, so P., N., and K. could show us an owl's next, which they had discovered in a tree the other day. This was on the way in, where they're pointing out a lizard: 

Then it was back to El's for a good, pulled-together, international (it including bok choy, lasagna, and beans and rice) dinner, made and served by those two little girls I used to know. 

After, Mr. K. played Chutes and Ladders and Crazy 8's while others cleaned up (well, I did my part for many years!). We then all played Yatsee, which always seemed to me a complicated, rather tedious game, but I was happy to be there with them. 

After we discussed plans for today--The Promenade, if it doesn't rain--I was chauffeured home. As is my new normal, I didn't get to bed until 10:00, but slept like a stone and awoke at my usual 6:30.  

The Beach

Called the Botanic Gardens and, unfortunately, they were closed. I was told they may open later--I hope when our company is still here. All Goodwills are closed, also, and when I tried to call the other shops I frequent, I kept getting the message that my call couldn't go through "at this time."
Did some food prep in the morning: chopped my three large onions and stored most of it in the freezer. Cut and cooked the fresh broccoli and had that, with salad, for lunch. Cooked and otherwise prepared a spaghetti squash to have later. Trimmed and scrubbed two pounds of carrots and put them in the slow cooker with tangerines, as I usually do. Put in a load of wash and was again pleased to have the appliances right here.
El called to say she had to go into school and make copies of workbooks for her students; she's to call them and tell them to come in and get them. Texted her and her sister back in forth about plans. The health department issued an edict that people should stay away from this and that and blah, blah, blah, but--YAY! for  me and mine--it's okay to hike, bike, walk, and run in the outdoors.
So, naturally, we went to the beach. It was pretty blustery, cool verging on cold, and overcast, but we greatly enjoyed it. We walked about a mile, then back, stopping on the way to gather shells, write on the sand, and otherwise enjoy ourselves:

These are pretty dark pictures, but I don't have the time or inclination to pretty them up. We got back to my place about 5:00, where El met us. She and her sister went to Von's for take-out and Mommy and Daddy did the same, while Nana put on the silly Shirley Temple movie for Mr. K., who promptly fell asleep on the coach. We all had this and that for dinner--your hostess an elegant repast of spaghetti squash, acorn squash, and carrots, along with a frosty Corona.

After, Mom and her two favorite daughters went out for good walk around the neighborhood. When we got back, we made plans for today; we decided on Shelf Road in Ojai, a winding trail that I was on years ago. That should be so enjoyable.

Of course, I wouldn't care if we were sojourning in Camden, as long as I'm with them. 

Thursday

I had been up until 10:00, so didn't set the alarm, but woke up at 6:30, anyway. Puttered around and gathered up some things to take with me today: warm hat and gloves, a photo album of early family, and a packet of microwave popcorn Mr. K. and his family might want.
Nancy called. She is, of course, not stepping foot outside her door, but that's not too unusual--she doesn't go out much, anyway. We talked about how hard this whole situation is, not only for hourly workers, but for her son and daughter-in-law. Richard owns a printing business--he does lots of posters, tee shirts, and so on--and said he's gotten so many cancelled orders he has enough work for another week and, if things don't pick up, that's it. He will have to dismiss his two employees and close the shop. His wife, Erin, works at an optician's place in Santa Barbara; they're closing after tomorrow. She can get unemployment, but naturally, at a fraction of what she made before.
I think not only of such small business owners, but the parents of many, if not most, of the children in Ellen's third grade are farm workers or have other hourly jobs. How will they survive if they get laid off?  How will they care for their children? 
Speaking of: I was picked up at 12:30 and off we went to Ojai. The company was out on a walk and shortly, Ellen was on a conference call with her colleagues and the principal. The upshot of that was that she must call all her students and instruct them on the on-line substitute for the third-grade classroom. She'll also be at the school today copying materials and otherwise preparing.
The rest of us went to The Farmer and the Cook, a restaurant where I've been several times, to get an onion and a bunch of cilantro. We then took a short walk, went back to El's and played Chutes And Ladders, Uno, and Crazy 8s. Believe it or not, I really enjoy the latter two. I like simple games where you don't have to think and strategist (I do that enough in real life). We had a wonderful time acting like--well, like the darling six-year-old present. In the meantime, Ellen and her sister made a great Mexican dinner, which we all enjoyed.
My friend, Stella, texted me to say the botanic gardens are free on Fridays and Mondays, in case we wanted to go. I suggested it, and yes, indeed, we'll do that today. Unfortunately, Ellen can't, as she has to be at school.
I was taken home about 7:30. Betty called for the second time--some jumbled stuff I can't even begin to fathom--then El called. We chatted for just a bit and agreed that, although it's a shame she can't go to the gardens with us, if this situation hadn't happened, she would have been in school all day.

Great Day

Oh, boy, what a great day! I was picked up at 9:30 and off we went to Ellen's. My son, his wife, and adorable Mr. K. were there--so good to see them again. We set off for Bart's Books and spent some time there. Little Mr. K. got a great dinosaur dictionary--he loves dinosaurs, as his dad did at six--and I bought two books myself. Here we are at Bart's Books:

We then went to the Ojai River Preserve for a hike of maybe a mile and a half. The ground was rocky and we had to be careful, but we got to the river. I didn't go all the way down to it, as the slope was just too precarious, but they enjoyed it and I loved seeing them:

We went back to El's for lunch, after which we played the Chutes And Ladders game amid great hilarity. After, I exchanged gifts, then looked at the old pictures I had brought, mostly of Mr. K's Daddy from the age of a few weeks through college.  El went to the eye doctor, and we went to Michael's for this and that, then Sprout's, then Von's, then to my place for dinner. We had kind of a pick-up type meal--my daughters had bought salad, son and daughter-in-law mac and cheese, I had leftovers from Tuesday night, and the little boy a kind of combination. I also sauteed some shrimp and bought a pie for dessert. We had a fine time and they didn't leave until 8:00.

Today, Ellen has an on-line school conference in the early afternoon (her school will be closed until May 1) and I'll be picked up at 12:30. The rest of us will hike again, possibly on Shelf Road, which is a high, winding one and very picturesque. I've been there before.

Niece Carolyn called and unfortunately, it seems they won't be able to come to see their cousins, after all. She's very worried about you-know-what and her brother seems to be absolutely paranoid. It's too bad, but I guess everyone reacts in their personal way to various happenings.  

Beautiful Day

I had called the office to say I couldn't close the "new" dishwasher and was told work orders weren't being done for two weeks because of he virus. (What possible reason could there be for that?)  And Bianca is leaving tomorrow, too. I was surprised to hear that and wondering what's going to happen after she's replaced. As for the appliance, see later.
Betty called to say her person was cleaning the kitchen and then they were going to play Sorry! and Chutes and Ladders. She was perky as ever--again, one of the few benefits of her disease---but she has become a child and it's often tedious to talk to her.
The best news is, my dear descendant came and immediately was able to close the dishwasher. You have to bang it hard with the heels of both hands, it seems. Okay, I can do it, so no prob and I'm bored with the whole thing, so the hell with it.
And it turned out to be a beautiful day. After rain in the morning, the sun came shining through, the clouds unbelievably white and lovely, the sky a perfect sky-blue. My girl and I took a long walk--over the footbridge, then to the library branch--it was closed, which didn't surprise me, but so was the book drop, which seems to me just plain ridiculous--then we took a footpath next to the bridge. We didn't know where it led and I was amazed that it goes to the park at Kimball, where I used to walk every day. Walked back and I guess we put in about four miles--maybe a bit more--total, which was great.
We met Suzanne when we got to the complex and chatted with her for a time. We then went to WinCo--yay!--where I got a lot of heavy stuff that would have been a problem without a car: tangerines, tall kitchen bags (I always get the big box, 80 a a time) and the three-pound container of cottage cheese, among other things.
Home and we sat on the patio reading for an hour or so. We had gotten salmon and spinach and I cooked that up for dinner, along with sauteed mushrooms for me (my guest is allergic to them). We ate early for me--at 5:00 and then she left. She was to call Ellen, who was on her way to pick up her brother and his family at LAX, then let me know the plans for today. She did a few hours later and said she'd pick me up at "nine-thirtyish" this morning and we'll drive to Ojai, where I'll see the Tokyo Trio--can't wait!

Rain And Family Affairs

Drat, it's dreary. Ellen called about 8:30 and we chatted. It now turns out only one is coming from Arizona, as the other is "older." Also, son cancelled his car rental at LAX, as El will pick them up, since she'll have the car home. The plan, at this point, is for her to pick me up tomorrow or Wednesday (depending on what time they get in) and take me to her place to finally see my boy, his boy, and his girl.
Stripped the bed and put a load of whites in the washer. It's still making that grinding sound and I still don't know if that's normal. Other than that, I spent a lot of time going through my file folders and separating them into categories. It was a big job, but I'm glad I can now have some order in and out of the new filing cabinet (which I still have to choose). The other is now empty and I guess maintenance will come and pick it up whenever I say. I must turn my attention to finding what I want soon.
Called the office at 11:00 to see when the dishwasher will be installed. Gabe finally came about 2:00 and hooked it up. It seemed to be working okay when he ran it for a few minutes. He told me I had to push it in hard, though. Okay, after dinner I tried it and it does not close. Damn! Called the office--naturally--it was after hours--and left a message asking to have someone come at nine o'clock and not make me wait until late afternoon.
I then ventured out to Von's with boots and umbrella into an incredible downpour. Unlike the usual, it came down in sheets and torrents, which was kind of fun to be in for a change. Got a few things--I mostly just wanted to get out--and shortly after I got home, the rain stopped and the skies cleared. A good omen, I hope.
Got all the things back under the sink better organized, I hope, and moved the kitchen table and chairs back into place. After that, I just fooled around on the computer until I suddenly got the muchies. Ate a number of hard pretzels, I'm sorry to say. After that, I wasn't hungry for dinner, so I had only sauteed mushroom and leftover spinach.
Happily, the rain stopped and the sun actually came out, so I put on my coat (it was still pretty chilly) and took a walk. Got a call to the effect I'll have a visitor while El is picking the Tokyo trio up at LAX; I'm looking forward to that.

Onions And An Ominous Sign

Darn, I didn't set the alarm and I slept until 7:30. After my morning rituals, I didn't get breakfast until 9:00, but so what? I didn't have any pressing appointments.
I'm not sure why I feel better getting up at 6:30, with breakfast at 8:00, but I do. There's no question I'm a creature of habit, but that's okay; as Popeye says, "I yam what I yam."
After the usual, I decided to try to find onions at the 99 Cent store in midtown. The one on Victoria didn't have any, which I think is odd. Yes, I know there's a run on all kinds of things, but onions? Not sure why.
Took the bus and incredibly, that branch didn't have any onions, either. However, wonder of wonders, they had blueberries, which I haven't be able to find elsewhere for the longest. I bought four 6-ounce containers, along with Parmesan cheese and mushrooms. Went to the bus stop, but when I consulted my bus app, I was informed it wouldn't come for twenty minutes. Decided to walk to the transit center, which I did, for at least a mile or a bit more distance. Home, put my things away, then walked over to Von's, still in search of onions. They had them and I got three huge ones, just in case the absence of them continues.
Had lunch, after which Betty called. I asked her if Muckie had been in her wedding and yes, my friend, Pat, was correct. For some reason, I didn't remember that and I didn't recognize her from the pictures. Betty called several more times and we chatted about her wedding.
Ellen called and said the governor of California had "called for" all people over 65 to stay home. Some accounts say he "ordered" this and I'd like to know which is correct. This strikes me as ominous. How will this be enforced? If I try to board the bus, stop in to Von's, take a neighborhood walk, will I be accosted by the police? The national guard? Some kind of special forces with detention powers?  Will people be asked to show proof of age, maybe with the "Real ID"? 
Am I concerned about this?  Damn right I am. 

Water And A Wedding

After soaking my black beans all night, I put them in the crock pot along with chicken broth, chopped onions and seasonings, and left it to cook happily away.
I was rinsing some dishes in the kitchen (cold) water, preparing to take them to the bathroom to wash, --when AAGH!--water came gushing out from under the sink! I had put back the things one keeps under the kitchen sink, including gallon jugs of vinegar and Bona floor cleaner and maybe I jarred open what Gabe had connected on Thursday. Here it is, but this doesn't show the worst of it:

The entire cabinet under the sink was awash, including all the cleaning supplies in it. I called the emergency number for maintenance, Gabe came, fixed it AND added the hot water--don't ask me how or why he couldn't do it before, I don't even want to go there. What's more, he came back in an hour, bringing the new dishwasher. However, he doesn't want to install it until tomorrow, to be sure the back wall is no longer damp.
I did a load of darks in the clothes washer, half worried something would go wrong, but no, they came out fine. The machine still makes a kind of muffled grinding noise, so I called GE and after this and that, was advised to wait and see, as it may just be breaking in--or  something.
I had enough of that nonsense, so I took my cart and walked to the market for veggies, then Wal-Mart, where I got my precious little grandson a "Chutes And Ladders" game. It's meant for much younger children because you don't have to read, but Betty has it and often wants me to play--a sad commentary, I guess, but it's kind of fun.
Speaking of whom, Betty called and we had a good chat. Of course, upmost on her mind was the virus. She said her son, Wes, hadn't been feeling well and he was tested for it. I find that hard to believe, but who knows? Anyway, Wes has put on Facebook some wonderful, beautiful, heart-breaking pictures of Betty's and Wes'es wedding. I love seeing them, but I mourn for all that's lost.

St. James Church, Ventnor, NJ

September 1,1961

l. to r., in back: don't know, G-Tom O'Brien (Wes'es brother-in-law), Wes, Betty, don't know.
In front: my Pat, Marnie Kehoe Campbell, don't  know, Norma Jean Johnson O'Brien (Wes'es sister), yours truly (and my daughter, Alison, who would be born in November), Pat Kennedy Hays, and our brother, Larry Byrne.

O lost, and by the wind grieved/Ghost, come back again.--Thomas Wolfe 

Dishwasher Disaster

Once again, I was sure I had gained and once again, was happily surprised to weigh in at 128.5, down a whopping--well, is it five-tenths of a pound or half a pound? Not being a mathematician, I dunno know, but I'm fine with it. When Cheryl picked me up, I told her I had looked up her stepfather, Greg McClure, and she said she has the DVD of The Great John L., in which he starred. She'll bring it next week so I can borrow it.
At the T.O.P.S. meeting, leader Lolly led a discussion about whether we wanted to suspend meeting, at least for a time, and after we talked, everyone of the seven of us voted to meet. As I pointed out, we can always amend that later, plus if anyone is worried about it, they can simply not attend.
As usual, I was very late getting breakfast and after I ate, I noticed there was water on the kitchen floor. It was actually coming up from the seams in the floorboards. Called the office, Scott came over, looked and said it was "interesting," he called Gabe, who came in and ran the dishwasher. After this, that, and the other, he determined that the dishwasher was leaking--but not directly onto the floor, which I would noticed, but under the floorboards.
Upshot was, he took the dishwasher and will put another in either tomorrow (Saturday?), if things are dry, or Monday, if not. I'll bet a bundle it'll be Monday. In the meantime, I have no hot water in the kitchen, which is a major annoyance, but I guess I'll live. I actually washed what was in the dishwasher in the much too small bathroom sink. I'll have to look around to see if I have any paper plates.
In between all this, I called Jim C., because I had read in the Ventura Star that Ventura College, where he teaches, will go all on-line on March 23.  Incredibly, he didn't know this, and said he'd go to the college and get the lowdown. We talked about a lot of other stuff, including the opera singers' performance we'll be going to on March 27 at the library.
Also talked at length about the upcoming visit with a loved one who will be here, too. I feel a lot better after talking to her--I'm just hoping they can still come.
It rained all day! Hey, for that kind of thing, I coulda stayed in Joisey!

Rain And The Virus

It rained lightly in the morning, during which time I started looking at the crapola in my filing cabinet. I also looked up Greg McClure and was charmed by what I fund out.*
By 11:00, he rain had stopped and I prepared to walk to the 99-Cent Store. That's a bit more than a mile and now I'm so used to it, it seems just a short stroll. I got napkins, an acorn squash, and a few other items, then hopped a bus. I decided while I was riding to continue on to the mall/transit center and see if Target had any blueberries.
They did, but oddly, two packages-one clearly exactly twice as big as the other, were both labelled "6 ounces." Puzzled, I took them to the return desk (clearly, customers are not encouraged to talk to the manager) and questioned the young woman there. She had no idea, but called someone who had no idea, either. I said I'd call the corporate office and she kindly gave me the number. I'll do that today.
Traveled home, and by the time I got there, it was raining again. At that point, I made a startling decision: I resolved to stay in for the rest of the day.

STAY IN!

FOR THE REST OF THE DAY! 

This was unprecedented. But it was coming down pretty good and as ever, dark, gloomy weather makes me feel lonely and sad. Besides, who wants to go out in the rain? So I had lunch, then fussed over a few more filing things, then even lay down, thinking I'd take a nap.  However, I wasn't tired, so got up.  I couldn't stand y to just be there, trying to find things to do! 

The solution? I dug out my boots, got my umbrella, and caught a bus to town. It was very quiet, of course, but I walked to The Promenade to view the ocean. I was surprised to see it wasn't at all rough, with just a few mild waves. Walked back to Main and caught a bus home, my good humor restored. 

I had just gotten out of the shower when niece Carolyn called. We had a good, long talk, mostly about the virus and my son and his family coming from Tokyo. I'm hoping there's not going to be any problem with that.
Later, Ellen called and we talked for almost an hour. I was startled when she told me school will be closed all next week. That means she'll be home while Patrick and family are here, but it's ominous. She said that Greg, advised by his doctor brother, is going to stay with his mother in Santa Barbara for the week; she's 87,  has COPD, and the precaution is probably a good idea. I hope the travel plans will go through.
Note: I forgot to mention that my T.O.P.S. friend, Cheryl, who picks me up every week, told me a wonderful thing about her life: Her stepfather was Greg McClure (not Doug McClure), who had been an actor in Hollywood and, in fact, had starred in the movie, The Great John L, in 1945. I was able to find his bio on the Internet and even the trailer for the movie on YouTube. I was just charmed by this and, since Cheryl has been so nice to take me every week, I want to find the DVD of the movie and give it to her. 

Busy And The Virus

Busy, busy, and mostly in a good way. The contractor, Josh, came about 10 to look at the filing cabinet. After pushing, pulling, tugging, and lifting the drawers, he decided it was done for. He said he'd get another for me at Lowe's or somewhere, but I objected. I want to see if I can use a two-drawer, instead of a full-sized one. After we sparred a bit and he finally said he'd give me a Visa card with the stated amount on it. Fine by me, but what did I pay? I couldn't find it on my checking account and figured I probably paid with a credit card, so how could I give him an amount?
My blog! I looked it up and, yes, in November, 2016, I bought the filing cabinet from Office Max. It had originally been $150, but I had a discount for some reason and paid $125. I printed the entry out when Josh cam back, gave it o him, and he said he'd authorize, then Bianca would give it to me.
Frankly, I'm a little surprised he'd accept something like that, but who am I to question?
After he left, I immediately walked over to Nails D'Elegence and got a pedicure. Oh, boy, do my tootsies feel good and do they look great! A chubby young woman named Theresa (not her Vietnamese name) did the deed and I had a fine time talking to her. I really like this place and the fact that I can stroll over there in five minutes is a big plus.
Home, lunch, then I got my cart and walked to Telephone Road and took a bus to Office Max. I took back an ink cartridge that for some reason, didn't work and was given a new one. Looked at filing cabinets and saw several I really like. Now I want to start going through my files (gro-o-an!) to whittle them down to two drawers' worth.
Went from there across the street to WinCo and got several items, including broccoli and spinach, some of my favs. Took the 6 bus to the mall, then the 21home. After I put everything away , I walked over to see Bianca; she said she'd call me when the Visa card was ready. Went from there to Von's  to take advantage of some coupons and the "Fabulous Five" promotion.
Suzanne stopped in about 5:30 to give me an update about the virus thing in Seattle from her sister, who lives there. It's funny: I don't know a single soul who has it or has had it. Nor do I know a single soul who knows anybody who has it or has had it. And the odds against that, not just getting it ones' self, but knowing someone, etc., are astronomical. Yet--buzz, buzz, buzz, as opposed to a concentration on the things that kill the most. I guess because the latter--heart disease, cancer, war--just aren't as sexy.   

The IRS And Citrus

Kind of a dreary day. It rained--that is, dripped--in the morning and was overcast most of the rest of the day. Since I had cancelled my Santa Barbara trek, I forced myself to start working on the income tax stuff. What a drag, especially since the filing cabinet is as it is:

It's difficult to get items out of the top, which is where most of the relevant info is. On Monday, I had copied this picture, added a note, and walked it over to the office. Late yesterday, I got a call from Bianca that "a contractor" will be coming over between 9 and 11 this morning to look at it. Spent the entire morning on the tax crapola, finally breaking for lunch at 1:00. I'm going to have  to consult Michele, my tax person, about some things--damn! The rain, such as it was, had stopped by the afternoon, and I bused to town. Just went to the library are took out a few DVDs. It actually got a lot warmer and the sun came out for a time.
Stella called on my way home, asking for the phone number of Shift, the outfit that bought my car; she wants to sell her late husband's truck.
Stopped in the Von's shopping center at the nail place to ask when they open.. I'll go for a pedicure--badly needed--this morning.  Defrosted some raw shrimp (already cooked shrimp is an abomination and a crime against nature)) and browned it quickly in olive oil--yummy, yum, especially with lemon juice from Ellen's loaded lemon tree.
I wonder if people know you can simply put whole lemons in the freezer. I have several in there, then just take them out to thaw either in the fridge or on the counter and they're as good as new. Thinking of this, it occurred to me that other citrus would work, too, so I put a tangerine in and will report back here.

Various

It always takes a few days for me to adjust to DST and yesterday was no exception. I had set the phone alarm for 6:30, but when it rang, promptly turned it off and slept for another hour. That meant I didn't have breakfast until 9:00, which throws off my whole schedule. But so what? I didn't have anything pressing to do, except some filing, which took about a half hour.
I wanted to wash my jeans, but thought I'd have to wait because I didn't have a full load of darks for the machine. Then I realized it didn't need to have that much; I could do a smallish load in my apartment washer, so I did.
I went out to take St. Patrick's Day cards to the P.O. (I send them only to the kiddies) when I ran into Chuck. We started chatting and I learned a bit about him. Actually, he's more interesting than I had realized before. He's lived here for 25 years, since his divorce--no children--and he was an engineer for the Environmental Protection Agency during his work years. I guess he's in his late sixties, or maybe older, it's hard to tell. I like talking to him; he's articulate and intelligent and, of course, I'm impressed that he had been in the Peace Corps.
We had no sooner said goodbye than Suzanne hailed me, just back from Burlingame and driving in with her new car. It's a beauty, a 2018 Toyota  in perfect condition, and I'm happy for her. Geez, maybe I should have gone into the convent.
After lunch, I took my little cart over to Von's, but 1.) I didn't find some of the things I wanted and 2.) I refused to pay their inflated prices. So, I walked to the bus stop and rode to Ralph's. I could have walked, but just didn't feel like it. Got tangerines, blueberries, and romaine, then bused back (I'm getting decadent in my old age).
Called Betty to tell her I wouldn't be coming  today, due to the expected rain, but we had a good talk. I then stopped in to welcome Suzanne back and ditto. Just went out to get the paper at 6:30 and saw that it is, indeed, raining, a rare phenomenon in these parts.

Sunday

Oblivious Mimi! I got up yesterday at my usual 6:30, got my coffee, sat down at this machine, and did my morning rituals. After roughly an hour and a half, I always have breakfast at 8:00, so I was startled to look at the screen and see it was 8:35. What--was it still on Arizona time or something? Or no, my little mechanical clock I've had so long must have given up the ghost. Walked into the kitchen and saw that the "antique" (a fake) clock said the same. It finally occurred to me that  Daylight Savings Time must have kicked in, but who knew? Not the Ventura County Star, that's a cinch.  For decades, I've counted on my daily newspaper to alert me about the changes of the clock, and that rag said nothing about it on Saturday and had only a small box on an inside page on Sunday.
So I ate late, for me, but was soothed by the big Sunday crossword, which I completed. Tidied up, then walked the one and a half to Wal-Mart and got a fabric measuring tape. I have three metal ones, but find them clumsy for some jobs.
Home, lunch, then it was off to town, which was jumpin' with people, music, and sunshine. Very festive. Took some books back to the library, then looked for Southern California, An Island On the Land. It was listed as in, but I couldn't find it and neither could the clerk I asked to help. Damn, it's quoted in the book I just bought: The Big Goodbye, Chinatown And The Last Years of Hollywood. It's
a new book and is fabulous, all about (in depth) the making of my favorite movie and its creators. The author quotes the other book and I'm determined to read it after I finish the one I bought.
Home about 5:15--the new 5:15--and had the leftover carrots and tangerines I had done in the slow cooker the other day (I eat them cold), plus a big bowl  of fresh spinach, dressed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Along with that, I baked the Ahi tuna steak--a delicious dinner, sez I.
Ellen called in he evening and we caught up with each other. She has hired a gardener to come twice a month; a good idea, I think. She's also preparing for the arrival of the Tokyo Trio, who will be here just a week from tomorrow--happy day! 

Holy Spirit High School And The Inmates

Yesterday was overcast, which I always find depressing, and it was the start of the weekend, which often sends me on at least a mild downer, but overall, it was a good day. For some reason, I started looking through my old yearbook--Holy Spirit High School, Class of 1954--and even reading some of it.
That wasn't easy because the religiosity was so overwhelmingly awful, even for a Catholic school. Most of the prose, supposedly written by the student staff, surely came straight from Sister Mary Jane's. The school principal, she was actually a pretty sharp cookie, but the old-time piety, vanished now--at least, I hope it is--sets one's mind to reeling and one's stomach to heaving.
Anyhoo, I noted how many of my classmates are now in the Land Of The Dead and there are a lot of them. But some not only live, but thrive, and I picked up the phone and called Jeanne Dollard Painter. We talk a few times a year and I always enjoy it. She remarked that high school was the most miserable period of her life, which surprised me, since she was so pretty and popular. Of course, I agreed and one of my permanent "I'm grateful for this" is that I finally escaped.
Jeanne has an apartment in Montvale, NJ, but was in Florida with John, her 91-year-old paramour, whom I've met. We had a fun talk and it cheered me up.
I then dialed up (or punched in) Mary Martin Hoffman, who just recently moved into -------- House (I blanked on the name, a low-income residence in Margate, although I've been there), as her sister did, too. They like it a lot and I'm happy for her. We caught up on our lives and that was good.
I then called my Blog-Buddy, Ms. Patricia McHale Rogers, and had a good talk. We read each other's blogs every day and it's fun to recognize names of people I've never met. Pat and I have lots in common, including that aforementioned background, and we agree on a lot of topics. Some we don't, but we're comfortable with that. It was great fun to talk with her.
Yet another battle-scared HSHS survivor called later: sister Betty and she seemed pretty with-it, for a change. I told her I'd be over to see her on Tuesday, but if it rains, may postpone. (And I used to make fun of these Californians, afraid of a little rain!)
Lunched, then set off with my little cart. I walked to Sprout's, then WinCo,  a good three miles and I was glad to get it in. I got fresh tuna- and swordfish steaks at the former and fajitas and several other essential items at WinCo. I then bused to the 99-Cent store for rice cakes, walked part of the way home, hopped a bus, and picked up grapes at Von's.  All that was simple enough, but when you're walking and busing in lieu of driving, it takes a while.
Got home about 5:30 and cut up my mushrooms, divided three pounds of ground turnkey, and stir-fried all with the sweet peppers and onions I had prepared before. Had it for dinner and it was yummy.
Additional note to Patti: Happy day, I slept like a stone last night!

T.O.P.S.

Because I was in Arizona, I hadn't gone to T.O.P.S. or gotten weighed for two weeks. I was sure I had gained, I just hoped is wasn't more than three pounds. I had weighed 129.8 last time and was prepared for 133 or so. Cheryl picked me up, we went in, and I stepped on the scale...
...and what to my wondering eyes did appear, but 129 even, meaning I not only didn't gain, I lost a bit. I was very pleased and even kept my impatience in bounds during the meandering meeting.
Home, had breakfast, and corresponded back and forth re my June trip to Jersey and an Airbnb. We found a possibility in Jackson where I want to be, then a better one there, but it still isn't firmed up. 
Did some food prep: chopped up four onions, froze some, and reserved the rest for stir-fry tonight/ Scrubbed two pounds of carrots and put them in the slow cooker with quartered tangerines., and left them to simmer.
Left for Yolanda's at noon and met Carolyn and Nancy there. We had our usual good time; I had a Modelo with my burrito; I would have ordered a Corona again just on general principals, but they don't carry it. The burrito was huge and I ate exactly half of it. Nance had only half of hers and said she'd have the rest for dinner and asked for a box. I didn't want to embarrass her, so did so myself. After we parted, I deposited the box, half-burrito and all, in trash can. I hate to waste food, but I knew I wouldn't eat it, for dinner or anytime else. 
Walked a few blocks, then got on the bus for town. Walked there, too, but it got chilly, so I stayed only an hour or so. I got off at the store near Yolanda's and picked up broccoli, romaine, spaghetti squash and sweet peppers, then caught another bus. Stopped at Von's for ground turkey, but wasn't hungry, so will stir-fry it tonight. I just had my yummy carrots for dinner, then snacks with Will And Grace.
Unfortunately, I got up for the usual about midnight, then just could not get back to sleep. I finally got up and played some games on this device. I might take a nap today, although I rarely to and don't like to. Mebbe yes, mebbe no...

Oh, Joy!

My chip came in the mail and it works!  YAY! It was such a pain trying to do anything here without it; I'm thrilled to have it back.
Otherwise, it was a busy day. After breakfast, I stripped the bed and put both sheets, pillow cases, and some underwear and white blouses in the washer, then the dryer, and was pleased to find they came out beautifully. The appliances aren't as big as those in the laundry building, of course, but they're not small, either.
While they were agitating, I moved all the chairs and other items from the kitchen, and used the Bona system (dust, then wash) to do all the hard floors. They came out beautifully and I also shook out the bathroom rugs and put them in the sun (kills germs). I haven't yet decided whether to try washing them here. They could be too heavy, so I might just continue to do them in the laundry building..
Took the trash and recycle stuff out and ran into Andrea, her daughter, Lauren, and little Brindley. A woman they know named Vickie came out and I was introduced. She looked to be about in her sixties and lives here with a friend who has Alzheimer's. I hope to see her again.
After, I set off for the 99-cent store and on the way, met Michelle. We had a long talk about the SOBs who run the place--she's even more annoyed than I am--and it was satisfying to vocalize our discontent.
Got carrots, two new pairs of reading glasses, black beans, and a few other things, then walked home,  pleased to get in about three miles. Lunched, then bused to town.
My son, who's coming with his family in two weeks from Tokyo, threw out a question in general on Facebook, asking if anyone knew of travel restrictions to California from Japan. I went to City Hall--they knew nothing, but advised me to call the County. I did, and got nowhere. Stopped at the library and the very pleasant and helpful librarian went on-line, but China seemed to be the only country restricted. Well, that's good news, but who knows what will happen in two weeks?
Okay, now I can put my hall arrangement on here:

Happily, it holds all my DVDs, plus some small books and I'm sure I'll add more. The picture (which Gabe hung) is the smaller of the three I bought years ago of early Atlantic City. The two large ones are over my sofa in the living room. Oh, hell, why not post that here, too?

It's such a thrill to have my little mouse and keyboard back, I could just keep type-type-typing away. But I won't.

Maintenance And Me

Did Maintenance come, as promised, at 9:00 am? Why, no.
At 10:00? Nope.
11:00?  AAGH!
That's when I called the office the first time, steam coming out of my ears. I got the answering machine. Called again at noon and finally, Jen answered. After I ranted and raved, she put me on hold and consulted Bianca, then came back and said somebody would be over in fifteen minutes.
He was and it was Gabe. Of course, he hadn't been apprised of the picture situation, so had to go back for a tape measure and hammer. I must say he was very meticulous and did a good job. The bookcase looks great under it and I'm happy with the hallway.
After lunch, I prepared to go out, but met Gabe coming in  to do the rest of the work and I went back with him. In very short order, he fixed (we think) my filing cabinet, realigned the louver doors, and studied the white streaks on the kitchen floor (he advised me to try just cleaning it first). So now I'm happier and finally was able to jump on a bus and go to town.
Got a good long walk in, stopped at first Target, then Von's on the way home. I was hoping my chip would arrive yesterday, but unfortunately, it didn't. I fervently hope it does today.
Mindful of the fact that I have T.O.P.S. tomorrow and will weigh in after a two-week hiatus, I had a one of my sketchy "dinners" last night: a can of string bean, frozen blueberries, and rice cakes. I'm quite sure I'll show a gain, but will deal with it.

Nails And Frustration

I could spit nails, as the unlovely saying goes. I waited in ALL DAY for maintanence * to come and remedy the problems created by the w/d installation. After the morning had gone by, when I'm  walking to Wal-Mart or elsewhere, I went to the office to find out why nobody had come yet. Told Manager (oh, I forgot--the title is now "community director," idiotically enough) Bianca I had to go out and she said somebody would be over at 1:00. Fine, I'll wait. Had lunch early, waited and waited and nobody came.
In the meantime, Betty called and I chatted with her. I called Arizona and chatted. Got the mail and found that--oh, guess what? We're now going to be charged for water heating (we're already charged for water), sewer, and trash, to the tune of this one-month bill for $73.12. I called the office, furiously angry, but that was somewhat placated by Scott, the new person in the office. Actually, I like him a lot better than I do Bianca.
Oh, cut to the chase, Mimi: At 4:20, maintenance guy Toby or Tyler or Trevor or whatever his name is, came and said he had just been notified of the jobs. AAGH!  But okay, he came in, got the top drawer of the filing cabinet open, but the whole thing is "sprung" or something and dammit, I better be reimbursed for that. He looked at the picture and said he'd have to come back with a hammer and measuring tape. Oh, a hammer? To put nails in a wall? Why would you need a hammer? (Double AAGH!)
Anyway, he left and I immediately called the office and was told they'd be here at 9:00 this morning. I then grabbed my jacket and purse, rushed out the door to Von's, then took a pretty  good walk over the footbridge, maybe three miles total. Stopped at the Hill Street branch of the library and got a book on cacti, then home and I felt much better.
* I know it's misspelled, but with this friggin' method of input, I don't know how to correct it.

Soaring Spirits Lunch

Busy day, but a good, active one. The Access Van picked me up at 9:00, which meant I got to The Coalition twenty minutes after and Owen wasn't in yet. No prob, I just strolled to The Promenade and watched the surfers, plus enjoyed the gorgeous day.

Got back at 10 and picked up the small bookcase, then waited around until the return van got me. Home about 11:00 and I immediately took off for the Stonefire Grill. Annoyingly, I just missed the bus, so walked down Victoria to Telephone, a mile, and got one there.

A nice crowd had gathered, including Carolyn B.--I sat next to her--plus a new guy named Marty from New York. He immediately announced he was to the right of Limbaugh and I countered with the information that I'm a radical. Anyway, we decided to drop politics and got along pretty well. I was delighted to learn, when we exchanged ages, that he's 88--I always like meeting people older than I am. Anyway, I enjoyed talking to him, believe it or not. He lost his wife three years ago (cancer), was born Jewish, is an atheist, has one daughter, and lives not far from me.

I was horrified to hear from Vera that Gayle B. is in the hospital with liver failure. Gayle is only in her middle sixties, retired just weeks ago, and she and I were good widder group friends. She's in Cedar-Sinai; I asked Vera to send me some information on room number and so on. Vera asked the server to take a picture of us waving to Gayle; if I knew the mysteries of this sullen laptop keyboard, I'll copy and post it here, but I don't.

After the lunch, I bused to the transit center, then home. Suzanne stopped in to tell me she's going to Burlingame on Thursday to pick up her new (2018) Toyota. This is actually owned by the order, but her car was old and gave up the ghost, so she is being given a new one.

I arranged some things on my new bookcase--well, it's really a DVD case--and did a few other chores. Talked to Nancy again and we made a date for Friday lunch at Yolanda's. In fear and trembling, I texted Eileen to ask about the dishwasher and darned if she didn't get back to me that Anchor Appliance was able to fix it. I'll get a bill for that, but certainly not at the price of a new one--good news!

Sunday

I'm still suffering horribly with the loss of mouse and keyboard, but am trying to be brave.
Actually, I got a lot done: Used my new washer and dryer to do whites in the morning and colors in the afternoon.The things actually work and, yes, it's going to be more convenient than the other way. After lunch, I took off for town and walked a bit. Stopped into The Coalition and found a small kind of bookcase that I decided would be just right for my CDs. Asked if I could pay for it and get it tomorrow, but they don't allow that. Politely tried to persuade them, manager was called, and she finally agreed, with the stipulation that I come get it by 10:00 am. As soon as I got outside, I called the Access Van and should be picked up at 9:03. However, they won't come back to take my acquisition and me home until 11:00. I was planning to go to the widder lunch at noon, but am not sure I can make it now. Oh, well, I'll just play it by ear.
Stopped at Target for blueberries and onions and while I was there, Betty called. We talked, I then took the bus home, detouring to Von's for cottage cheese. Once I got in, I cut up the onion and chunked the two pounds of tomatoes I had, added oil and seasonings, and popped two large pans in the oven. Called Nancy, who used to live in Arizona and we had a good talk. Shortly, we'll plan lunch for sometime this week.

This is driving me crazy--or crazier...

Damn! I just wrote out several lines and somehow, it erased and I don't know how to "undo" without a mouse. All right, Ellen came over, tried to fix, couldn't, called Mike and, as it turned out, the little chip or whatever it is should have been switched and wasn't, so I have his and he has mine. El took me to the p.o. right away and I sent it off. I hope I get mine soon from Arizona, as this using the keyboard that's attached is driving me crazy!
Anyway, El and I went to the Black Angus for lunch and I deliberately ordered a Corona in reaction to the FB post I saw that said 60 percent or so of be beer drinkers won't order it because
of you-know-what. The idiocy of the human animal can never be underestimated.
El helped me with a lot of stuff and I got a lot put away. Didn't yet do a wash, but will today. Stopped at Suzanne's to show her pics of Arizona and I can't write anymore on this thing.