Monday

Did a color wash when I got up, had breakfast, then made a black bean stew. I've done this before and like it--plus it's loaded with protein, which I know I need. Put the beans into the slow cooker with (bought) beef broth, added a finely chopped large onion, and let 'er rip. Later, I put in half of the fresh spinach I cooked earlier. Took off for Smart 'N' Final and The Dollar Tree after that. I got a nice quarter of a watermelon at the former, a bunch of this and that at the latter, and got my three miles in. 

After lunch, which consisted of deviled chicken and cottage cheese on whole wheat--sounds weird, but tasted good--I took off for town. Just strolled here and there; unlike most days, it was pretty quiet, maybe because it was a cloudy day. Bused home, getting in close to 6:00. 

I spent some time on this machine (or is it a machine?) and asked the folks at Photo Restoration & Colorization Free Service to enhance the graduation picture of my third and final brother, Frank (they had obliged for Jim and Larry before. Here's the original:

and here are two colorizations:

I think the second looks a little overdone--cartoonish, or something. However, I like the blue suit coat. 

Yesterday was the forty-seventh anniversary of the death of Betty's husband, Wes. I called her, but she hadn't remember it. I don't know if she remembers Wes or that second-to-worse period in her life. Maybe it's just as well. 

 

Sunday

 For Sunday, it wasn't a bad day at all. I got up late--presumably, because I had had such a hard time sleeping--so didn't have breakfast until 9:30.  I completed the crossword, which was a good one involving Beverly Sills and puzzles--charming. Stripped the bed and did a load of whites.

After late lunch, I walked to The Market and got a half dozen nice grapefruits, plus some cookies. Walked up Victoria to Telephone, where I passed this demonstration:

(Click on the picture to enlarge.)

Yes, there's a powerful force that wants to recall Governor Newsom. They're conservative right-wingers, not my cup of tea, but then, neither are the neo-liberals. I smiled at the demonstrators when I walked past them on the way home and they smiled back. I honestly don't care if he stays in office or not.

Home, I did something I haven't done for more than two years, since B.C. (not, of course, "before Christ," but "before COVID"): I sat on the patio in the sunshine reading Billy Summers,* and enjoyed a cold beer and crackers. 

Ellen called in the evening and we had a good talk.  Aside from that, the best news is that I slept soundly through the night and just got up at my usual 6:30--boy, what a difference that makes!

*I think King has topped himself with this one--it's absorbing and has a lot more depth than some of his others. 

Saturday And Sleeplessness

Composed and typed up the minutes for T.O.P.S. and semi-planned for next week when I act as "leader."  Did more food prep, to wit (I like these hoary old terms, so shoot me) pureeing more tomato/onion to make soup; doing the same with spinach; and pureeing macaroni salad I had bought. (I know somebody who thinks the latter is revolting, but I like it.

After lunch, I actually lay down and took a short nap. Got up refreshed at 2:30 and left to walk down to Telephone Road. There, I got the 11 bus to Office Max and bought printer ink. From there, I bused to the mall, where I went to Target for crackers (I soften them in the soup), B12, and a big, beautiful grapefruit.

Didn't get home until 6:00, which was fine by me. Received and sent several texts to and from Vickie about the booster shot being reserved, at this point, for those with compromised immune systems. She qualifies, of course, having just finished radiation for breast cancer. I didn't realize you also have to have had the last shots at least 8 months ago. My second was in February, so I'd have to wait, anyway. I sent Jim an email to inform him about the booster.  

Unfortunately, I again had a gruesomely restless night: Up at 2:30, couldn't get back for what seemed like hours, then got up just now at--AAGH!--quarter of eight! I hope this is just a phase.

Friday

 Now I'm puzzled at the discrepancy in my home and the T.O.P.S. scales. I was 125.2 at home, for a loss of 2.4 (wow!), but at T.O.P.S., I was 126.7, a loss of only .05. I'll take them both, of course, but I'm going to check with Bobbi, the weight-taker, to see if I recorded last week's in error.

There were five of us, which is getting to be standard--Sharon didn't come, as she said she wouldn't--and Lennie conducted the meeting in her usual vague. For the "program"--if you can call it that--she had duplicated the two articles, one on the "Bible Belt Diet," the other on the highly-processed foods the alarming majority of children are being fed. She had us read them aloud, in order, which is the absolute rock-bottom of don't-know-how-to-make-anything-even-remotely-interesting. The kicker is, that I had brought both articles in last week, to try to start a discussion that at least had some semblance of relevance to why we were there. Anyway, I stayed the whole time, of course, and even agreed to Lennie's request that I take the minutes and conduct next week's meeting when she'll be away.

Home at 10:00, had breakfast, then did a lot of busy work, mostly financial, and typed up the minutes. Found the deed to my house on the Ocean County Clerk's Office website and printed it out for the trust I'll establish. Tried to call CVS to see if they did the follow-up Pfizer, but after a lo-o-ong phone runaround, hung up. I went over to Von's for Stella Artois (on sale) and a few other things. There, I consulted the pharmacy and found that boosters are being reserved for those with compromised immune systems, which explains why Sharon was able to get it. Must remember to tell Jim.  

Food prepped by combining fresh veggies (cauliflower, broccoli, tomato, and onion) and reserved "veggie juice" in the slow cooker.  

Walked to the Hill Street library branch and enjoyed an hour of reading a book called Dopesick, which is about the Opioid drug addiction problem and how it happened. If we don't think Big Pharma is sometimes a death-dealing monster, we should open our eyes. I didn't take it out though, as I have the King book, a whopper, so will continue it later. I did borrow three DVDs.

Home and had the vegetable "stew" for dinner. Along with mashed potatoes, it made a good meal.

Thursday

 As usual, I checked my email in the morning and found a message from my tenant, Susan. She said they've been having a major problem with ants. I immediately called former neighbor, Susan Geldart, and she told me a lot of people in Sunrise Bay have been having ants, probably due to the amount of rain in southern Jersey. She recommended her exterminator, "Tom," of Sincore. I called him, he got back to me and, happy day, he went to the house and remedied the problem with ant traps. He'll send me a bill--only $125, which is okay. That's the good news.

The bad news is that Tom called to tell me he saw evidence of termites, also a common problem down there. (After all, Little Egg Harbor was carved out of the pinelands.) We talked about it and he'll also send a contract. He said it will be close to a thousand dollars. It doesn't have to be done immediately, but I'd just as soon have him do it now than later.

Went with Suzanne to WinCo and got everything I wanted. Jim came for lunch, as usual at 1:00, and we had our usual vigorous talk sessions. I walked him out when he left and ran into Vickie and Mary--chatted with them for a bit. Sharon had told me she got the Pfizer follow-up at CVS, so I went over to the one near here, but they told me they don't do that one; maybe Moderna? I was told CVS down on Victoria Avenue does, so I'll call there.

Called the state of New Jersey to see about getting a copy of my deed, which I need for the trust I want to set up. Anyone, it seems, can get it, just by requesting it on-line, so I'll work on that today.  

Unfortunately, I had a horribly restless night: Got up for the usual and made the mistake of looking at the time: 1:35. Then I could get back for hours because of the damn restless leg thing. I had forgotten the first does of Ropiniorole and took only one an hour before I went to bed. That probably did it and possibly--although I'm still skeptical about this--it happened because the bar of soap had slipped down toward the mattress. 

Semi-Normal

Getting back to semi-normal. I wrapped and addressed the drums book and took it to the post office to send off to New Jersey. Stopped at Von's for spinach and more cabernet in the little four-bottle, one-portion pack. Jim always refuses a second bottle and I don't want a large, uncorked one around--too much temptation to have some when I'm by myself.   

Had the homemade pea soup, plus the rest of the acorn squash for lunch. I'm still finding it hard to chew anything more than semi-soft and may have to go back to Dr. Babbitt for an adjustment. However, I can live with it for now and it isn't sore, so I'll wait and see if it improves. Don't want to go today, as I'm going with Suzanne to Wilco at 9:00, plus Jim's coming for lunch. Maybe I'll call and wheedle office maven, Stephanie, into letting me come on Monday (office is closed on Fridays).  

Bused to town after lunch. I bought two DVDs, one of them Under The Desert Sky--Andrea Bocelli singing at Lake Las Vegas, which I started watching last night. The other is the movie, Brighton Rock, from the book by Graham Greene, which I read years ago. Greene was one of my favorite writers and I've read all his books, fiction, plus his autobiography. He was English, died decades ago, and was the first--and only--author to whom I ever wrote a fan letter.

While I was waiting for the bus on Ventura Avenue, Sharon R. called. I had left T.O.P.S. early last week and she wanted to let me know it would still be at my place, as the Trinity Lutheran floor re-do wasn't finished. Fine by me and I told Sharon to call me when she was at Hill Street and I'd let her in. Last week, she came in the front and had to walk to the center, where we meet, and that's a terrific ordeal for her. She's now on a kind of fasting diet--doctor imposed--and is losing, but oddly slowly, considering the regimen. Anyway, we chatted for a bit, then I texted Lora that it would again be here. 

Sharon mentioned that she had gotten her booster (third) Pfizer shot at CVS, so I guess I'll go over there or to Quest for mine. 

Microwaved two pounds of fresh spinach, then pureed it with my newly-acquired hand blender, of which I'm finally getting the hang. Added some milk and butter and it made a delicious creamed spinach--delicious to me, anyway. 

 

Tuesday

In the morning, I did two loads of wash and a variety of other household chores. Went out to give Suzanne back her futon and there she was, about to ask how my (dental) week went. We sat on the chairs on our mutual front walk and talked for a half hour or so. I had been pretty down, but felt better after our chat and I told her so.

Bused to The Market after lunch, got the few things I needed, then walked home. I had a sketchy dinner of pea soup and tomato soup--both made from scratch--an avocado, and ice cream. (I still have to graduate to all solid food.)

Called Jim and, among other things, we talked about how long it takes to walk a mile. In some ways, he seems oddly unware of the obvious. He said it takes fifteen minutes; I countered with the fact that there are many variables, such as height, weight, length of stride, age, fitness, and so on. He seemed doubtful and after we hung up, I found some info on-line and sent it to him. In any event, he'll come for lunch tomorrow.

Slowly, but surely, I guess I'm recovering--physically, anyway. Now I have to work on my inner health. 

 

Monday

Kept my 11:15 appointment with Dr. Babbitt and happy day--all is much better! He adjusted this and that, told me a few things, and I'm thrilled and overjoyed. I can even whistle now--which I haven't been able to do for the last few years, for some reason.

Lunch after then, then a three-mile walk on The Promenade on one of those beautiful, sunny-but-just-pleasantly-warm-not-hot days for which California is justly renowned. After, stops at Sprouts and Trader Joe's for various, then home to prepare for dinner at Sea Fresh, in Ojai. 

Ellen and Greg were already there and we had a great time. I stuck to semi-soft with clam chowder and a side of garlic potatoes, but probably could have had something harder. Didn't get home until close to 8:00, watched more of Nicholson cavorting with Hunt, then slept well.  

Sunday

Went to Santa Barbara to see Betty. It was, as ever, gruesome and sadly demoralizing. Stayed about an hour--that's about as long as I could take it--then said goodbye. After, it was enjoyable to walk the Santa Barbara waterfront, where there were lots of paragliders--so colorful and festive and evocative of summer.

Had dinner at Pacific, in town, where Nancy, Diane, and I used to enjoy for Happy Hour. I asked the waitress if Iris was still there and she said yes, but she doesn't work on Sundays. Got Miso soup and a Topa Topa beer; I was able to soak the accompanying bread in the soup and swallow that. Not so the mushrooms, which I was unable to chew. However, it was a good meal.

After, just walked a bit on the blocked off section of Main, enjoying the crowds having a good time at weekend's end. Stopped at a candy shop and got sugar free peppermint patties. That was a mistake; see below. 

Home, I showered and washed my hair in preparation for today's visit to Dr. Babbitt.  

Unfortunately, I had a bad night. I foolishly ate two many peppermint patties while watching As Good As It Gets and my tummy kept me up for hours. I feel okay this morning, though I may take a nap later. 

Yesterday marked the twelfth year I've been a widow. Rest in peace, Pat. Here's one of my favorite pictures of him--with Joel, Jr., at his parents' wedding, 2003.  (Adorable baby is now in college.) 

Saturday

Walked the harbor in the morning, a total of four point something miles. Had lunch, then met Ellen at her school and helped her prepare the classroom for the fall semester, starting next week. We worked for three hours, leaving about 4:30. It looks terrific for when the third-graders will come in on Thursday, quite a contrast from St. James in 1945:

We stopped at Von's for a few items for dinner. Came back to my place and enjoyed Margaritas, ate, and generally had a fine time. Ellen left at 7:30, but we made plans to meet (with Greg) tomorrow for dinner at Sea Fresh in Ojai. 

Friday

Met here for T.O.P.S. and I lost a whopping 4.9, weighing in at 126.7, according to the official scale. Now I'm wondering if that's accurate because, according to my home scale, I lost 2.4 and am at 128.4. I'll have to check next week,

After breakfast, walked over the footpath to the park and little lending library. Left off a book and picked one up. Went home the circumference of the park way, so I think totaled about three, possibly more.  

After lunch, I just did some household chores, one of which was clearing and rearranging my silverware and utensil drawers. Also pared, quartered and boiled several potatoes, then whipped them up. I now have whipped potatoes for the next year, I think. 

Ellen called and will be over after she completes preparation of her classroom, about 5:30. Teachers start Monday and the kids on Tuesday. 

Thursday

 Dental work continues to hurt some, but not too bad. I still haven't been able to eat solids, but puree everything. Good and active, though: Bused to town in the afternoon to pick up the new Stephen King book; also bought some fancy cloth napkins. After dinner, walked The Promenade, which was so enjoyable. Ari, from Dr. Babbitt's office, called to remind me of my follow-up visit on Monday. 

Ellen called; she's preparing her classroom for the start of the school year. Picked up some Anbesol, which I'll now apply to my sore gums. I'm sleeping very well, oddly enough, and I'm glad about that. 

Glad about a lot of things, as a matter of fact.

Wednesday

Enjoyed a walk in Oxnard at the State Beach Park and oceanside. After, went to Wal-Mart and bought a hand blender. Home, I pureed the pea soup so I was able to eat it--delightful.

At my door, I found gifts from Mike: A little plant, several jaw breakers, and a box of peanut brittle. Jokes, of course, and I thought they were funny. He then messaged me from Singapore after dinner and we had a good virtual visit. I called Jim to invite him to lunch today, but he was already booked. My gums were somewhat painful after I got up; hope that passes.

Just a note: Target owes me $2.67!

Second Day

Things doing all right. My temporary dentures were in all day and aren't too gruesome. They actually allow me to smile like a normal person and look reasonably human:

Walked to The Market and Wal-Mart in the morning to pick up a few things. I've been eating only soft things--wish I could have a glass of wine, but the pain medication, Hydrocodone Acetamin, won't allow alcohol. I've taken only one of the prescribed stuff so far; otherwise, I've made due with aspirin, as I don't have a lot of pain. Mostly, it's when the gums get sore, as they do occasionally. 

Jim called again, to ask how things had gone and we had a nice chat. Suzanne stopped in to do the same and ask if she could help. Ellen's been in close touch, of course, and the tentative plan is to have lunch with her and Greg on Saturday.

Just had soft foods so far: dinner of mashed potato and butternut squash, followed by ice cream. Slept well, but am having some discomfort this morning (Wednesday) on the right side. Hope it passes.

 

Dentist

Suzanne stopped in to wish m luck and Jim called to offer me the same. Ellen texted her good wishes, too. We went to Winco in the morning to pick up a lot of soft foods, had a light lunch, then took off for Dr. Babbitt's. Luckily, I remember little about the procedure itself. I now have a upper denture (temporary),which looks pretty natural, but isn't completely comfortable. I guess it will improve. 

I think I went to bed very early--don't remember and got up right now at 4:15. I think I'll have to nap today or stay up a lot later.

Sunday In Santa Barbara

Another good, full day. Walked in the morning (2 plus), had lunch, picked up Ellen, and drove to Santa Barbara to get niece Carolyn, then went on to Villa Alamar. It's very attractive, kind of adobe style and nicely maintained. (At those prices, it ought to be.) Unfortunately, a resident had gotten COVID, so inside visits were not allowed. In the anteroom, an attendant asked us to fill out forms, took our temperatures, and gave us hospital style masks and face shields. We then able to meet Betty in the very attractive inner court. 

We had a good time, considering. This seems to be the right place for Betty and clearly, she enjoyed seeing us. She was nicely animated and seems happier than she had. Of course, there are still "issues," as that dreary modern expression goes, but I'm convinced this is the right place for her. We stayed for more than an hour, then said goodbye. In a funny way, it's both hard and easy to leave her. On the one hand, I iss her when we do and on the other, I'm relieved to get away. I'm hoping to be able to get back there in a few weeks. 

We had pizza at Carolyn's, then sat talking girl talk for a good long time. Home late--it was after 9:00. Happily, I slept well the last few nights. Hope I'll be able to do the same after my ordeal today.

Saturday

 A full, fun day, which included a morning walk (3.9 miles), lunch at Two Trees, some shopping, a nap, and a visit to The Townehouse. (That included a chat with Helmut H., the man whose sons went to Rider.)  

Also, the good news includes the fact I slept like a stone, as the Brits say. Maybe I can thank the RLS medication for that--or maybe because it was a full, fun day. 

Friday

Did not one, not two, but three loads of wash. Put in the first before I met the gals for T.O.P.S. which took place here. Damn, I gained: 2.8 on home scale for 130.8, 2.2 on T.O.P.S. scale, for 131.6. What's weirdly ironic is I lost exactly the same last week, so I just went down, then up. I don't really care much, but don't like the over-130 one.

The meeting itself was fairly okay. There were five of us; Lenny had at least a sketchy sort of meeting; I contributed info on The Bible Diet (interestingly healthy, actually) and a study on how much processed and ultraprocessed foods kids are eating (unhealthy in the extreme). Sharon held forth on her usual unrelated crapola and I didn't get breakfast until 10:30, but okay. 

I went home, made the bed, dusted and Bona-washed the hard floors, swept the patio and front walk, and otherwise cleaned up here and there. Showered, washed my hair, selected what to wear for the wine and music at The Townehouse, and--the big news--deviated from my usual big salad lunch and had a sandwich--I dunno, just felt like it. Jim picked me up at 2:30 and off  we went.

It was pretty much fun--well, not the riotous type, that's a cinch, but the soothing kind. Anne, the activities director, remembered me from years ago when I used to attend. Jim and I sat in the beautifully landscaped "rose garden"; the roses are in only one section and very lovely, but the rest is wonderfully done. The main building and the "villa" (big bucks needed to live in them) form a kind of central square and the entertainment goes on there under a temporary tent. Yesterday, it was a singer named Tom Weaver, with a big mane of white here, surely in his late sixties or seventies himself. He sang all oldies; I'm sure this is standard for this kind of venue--the people living there are not anxious for Iggy Pop.  

The activities director, Anne H., was there. She said she remembered me from before and, before I left, I told her I'd send her a proposal. I'm going to see about the possibility of setting up an Acting For Amateurs class there--it may be unlikely, but I might as well give it a stab. 

Anyway, Jim and I enjoyed it. We were served wine, of course, but I was taken aback that there were no nibbles with it. In earlier years, a nice array of wine, cheese, grapes, and so on, was offered, but not now. I assume that has to do with the COVID thing--not sure. The show lasted about an hour and fifteen, so I got home before 5:00.  

Holy Spirit

Didn't do much in the morning except go to Von's for lettuce and grapes. Fooled around on this machine that rules my life and tried to send to my laptop the group picture Jeanne sent me on the phone. I just couldn't get it to come up. Finally, I asked her to send it to my email and I got it. It's a fabulous picture of a lot of the girls in our class and their mothers (see below). I asked Jeanne what occasion it was; she didn't remember. Not sure why I'm not in it--it's an elusive memory. I'm sure the club was religion-related (well, duh, it was sponsored by the school) and I was a good little Catholic at the time. Wish I could ask Betty. Printed it out and as far as possible, matched picture to name--I identified sixteen for sure and one could be any of three inmates. I looked in my yearbook to see if a club is pictured, but  but nothing matched.  

Bused to town after lunch and bought some towels. Strolled around, but there wasn't much going on. Home by 4:00, which is early for me, but then I got absorbed by the classmate hunt described above--it's fun! Here's the pic; Betty and Mom are standing, third and fourth from the left. I emailed Jeanne to see if I had her permission to post this on Facebook:

Called Jim to see if he wanted to go to The Townehouse today for Happy Hour and music in the rose garden. Yes, he did and he'll pick me up at 2:30. 

Cece, John, Ellen, And Jeanne

Borrowed the futon from Suzanne in the morning and dug out some sheets for it. Talked to El, who was going for her Brazilian blowout at 3:30 or so, then said she'd come over. Did a wash, then just tidied up a bit. Right after lunch, I took my cart and went to the Hill Street library branch. Took back Shrill, plus the true crime overview book I had gotten out. I stayed for an hour or so reading, then went to look for another Jonathan Kellerman (it's an addiction I can't seem to break) and while I was perusing the stacks, I heard someone say my name. It was Cece, whom I had known in Toastmasters and we greeting each other happily.  Shortly, she called over John C., also a Toastmasters person, He gave me a big hug and we three chatted away.

John, unfortunately, has had serious health problems lately. He said he had just relearned how to walk after a major back operation, plus he has anemia and the doctors aren't sure what's causing it. To top it off, he has neuropathy. I'm not sure how old John is--I think in his early eighties--but he looked considerably more frail and elderly than he did the last time I saw him. Anyway, Toastmasters is still Zoom meeting only and that doesn't interest me in the least. We chatted away, then I had to leave, as Ellen was going to call me.    

She did, then came over to help me move the large and heavy coffee table, so there would be room for the futon. I got the vacuum out and after both of us had laboriously pushed it around, El degreed that I needed a new one. Yes, I did, and we rushed off to Wal-Mart and picked up a cheapie Dirt Devil for less than fifty bucks. 

We then went to Jasmine Thai to find--AAGH!--that they're closed on Wednesday, so we went to another Thai place on Johnson Drive. We had delish pad Thai (El), tropical fried rice (me) and, of course, Thai iced tea and a Sappho beer, respectively. 

Home, El put the Dirt Devil together, we each ran it, it's just fine, I say, and I'll use it a lot more than the Hoover dinosaur I had before. El has a four-hundred dollar Dyson and more or less looked down her nose at mine, but geez, she has a whole house, I have exactly two smallish rooms that are carpeted, and I'm okay with it. My darling daughter left about 7:00--how I love being with her--and I'll see her again on Saturday. 

I was at this laptop at 8:00, just about to sign off to watch a segment of Florence Foster Jenkins, when I was surprised to get a Messenger video call from my old classmate, Jeanne Dollard Painter. She's been bombarding me lately with texts and pictures to assure me her daughters and granddaughters are beautiful (some really are beautiful) and brilliant (questionable) who ever lived on the face of the earth. Oh, and they all married extremely wealthy men with whom they live in luxury, except for those who are on a par with Bill Gates when it comes to corporate standing--AAGH!

Jeanne has been doing this for years. In a weird way, she reminds me of Sharon from T.O.P.S. They both seem so bereft of meaning in their lives that they have to keep assuring me--and themselves--that they have great meaning in their lives. Jeanne was at Lake George with her 92-year-old lover, who was asleep on the couch. What in the hell could she do all day? She seems to have no interests or hobbies, few friends, and little in-person contact with her children. Well, she was the prettiest girl in the class sixty-seven years ago, so there's that...

Tuesday

I kept my appointment with Harvey M. at The Townehouse (that spelling is so damn annoying) at 11:00 and hey, I really, really like the place. I saw the studio, the least expensive (of course, it's considerably more than what I pay for my present apartment) and the one-bedroom, which I much prefer. Naturally, they had the models beautifully decorated and, if I wanted to pay an extra four hundred a month for it, showed me one on the sixth floor--wonderful views, but I don't think I'll do that. Anyway, I was introduced to staff and, one and all, they were courteous and welcoming. That's true of every such establishment I've ever visited, of course--any worker who isn't wouldn't be there long. I emphasized that I wasn't thinking of moving very soon, if ever, but if I was, the Townehouse would be it.   

After lunch, I put my book returns in my little cart and walked over the footpath bridge to the Hill Street branch of the library. How I love this place! I saw a book on the shelf called Shit, Actually, and naturally, had to read it. It's a tongue-in-cheek review of different movies, including Love, Actually, of course, and The Fugitive, by Lindy West. It's so hysterically funny, I actually laughed out loud. This gal, who's from Seattle, writes for the NY Time (that rag doesn't deserve her) and her "reviews" are sarcasm raised to a beautiful art form. Shocking?  Pretty much. Outrageous? Oh, yes. Profane? Sure thing. Damn, where has she been all my life? Anyway, I read most of it and took out another of hers called Shill, which I suspect is no sheltered lady book, either.*

Walked from there to the market for produce, then bused home. Did some food prep, such as stir-frying several pounds of ground turkey, onion, and broccoli, then dividing it into portions. Had one for dinner and froze the rest for other days. Called Ellen, who will pick me up today after her Brazilian blowout, to pick up a blow-up bed. But now, I'm not sure: I stopped in at Suzanne's after dinner and she asked if I wanted to borrow what she called a "futon." It's actually a fold-up kind of mattress. I think I'll ask to borrow it and will see if that will serve. 

I was hugely disappointed to hear from son, Mike, that his travel plans have been cancelled due the COVID flare-up here. 

*It isn't, but it's not as good as the other book--more like a fat girl, super feminist rant. I probably won't finish it.  

Monday

Walked to Pacific Therapy for my 10:20 appointment. I started to get annoyed when it got to be 10:30 and I was still in the waiting room, but then calmed down. I had plenty of time to get home and prepare for Jim coming for lunch.  It was a good session and I like Laurel, the P.T. She had me go through several exercises, which I'd add to the ones I do daily at home. I also did twelve minutes on the Nu-Step. My friend, Pat R., is a lot better on it than I am. My "speed"--or whatever that upper right number records--was between 5 and 6 and my "steps" ranged from 76 to 80--or maybe those numbers should be reversed--dunno.  Anyway, it was a workout. Laurel also guided me on other devices, more aimed toward improving balance. 

Walked home and got out the sandwiches I had left over, plus the rest of the crystal pickles. Jim came at his usual 1:00 and we spent some time in the garden while I showed him the geraniums (which are improving) and daisies (which have me worried). He was interested in the fact that the recently installed gate opens inward--I've wondered why in the world they put them that way--but Suzanne's doesn't, as her huge ficus tree wouldn't allow it. When I mentioned this to Jim, he walked next door and looked over Suzanne's gate--if she hd seen him out there, she might have been alarmed, but he assured me she wasn't home.

We had a good visit and lunch, as ever (he finished the crystal pickles, which was fine with me) and he left about 3:30. I then went over to Von's to return some bottles and cans, for which I got a fortune--a dollar thirty--then stopped at the office/clubhouse to look at the fitness center. I might take advantage of it one of these days. It doesn't have a NuStep, which isn't surprising, as Laurel told me the one at Pacific Therapy cost five thou used. 

Sunday

I almost completed the Sunday crossword (two minor words undone) and it was a good one--puns for the major lines, which I enjoy. It occurred to me to wonder why I like this so much. I don't have any interest in crossword books or other venues where they're carried. Aside from hidden object and Royal Match games from Big Fish, I don't want to play anything on-line, either. I certainly never want to play complicated "adult" games where you have to strategize heavily. A little of that is okay, but let me relax when I'm playing, I obsess enough on things that are real. 

After that enjoyable activity, I walked to Smart 'n' Final for 45 calorie popsicles and grapes; went next door to The Dollar Tree to get a new bottle of Miracle Nail, which is keeping my nails pretty strong, plus a few other items. Home, had lunch (salad left over from Saturday) after I put in a load of wash. I also have three made-up sandwiches from the luncheon, so called Jim  to see if he wanted to come for lunch one day and we'll eat them. I'll open Vickie's wine gift then, too. Heard back from him in the evening and he'll be here today.

Had lunch (the leftover salad), then lay down and took a nap. I haven't been sleeping well lately and I think I needed it. Got a text from Stella asking if I wanted her Protonix, which I believe is an acid reducer. I guess we had talked about that recently an coincidentally, I'm feeling some now. I had stopped taking the med I have, but will resume. Damn, I hope I'm not getting another ulcer. 

I decided to write a letter--an actual letter, which I'll put in the mail today--to my older granddaughter, Vivian, in Singapore. Every once in a while, I write letters; must send another to my dear brother, Jim, in Bangkok, although I'm afraid he may not be aware of it. 

I went to Von's before dinner--I wasn't hungry yet--and came back with what I consider staples, too boring to enumerate. I also bought a "Tokyo-style Raman," frozen, and had half for dinner. It wasn't too bad, but not wonderful.  

Additional Note: 

As for the banning from Facebook for 13 hours: A FB "friend," who is a teacher, posted about the misuse of the word "literally," which means "actually." People constantly misuse this to mean the opposite: "His singing was so bad my ears closed up." I commented about the word "unique" and wrote something like "it does not mean "rare" or "unusual--it means there is only one. You can't use 'unique' to  mean 'rare' or 'unusual'--well, you can, but then I'd have to kill you."  

My Post After My Jail Term Ended:

Incredibly, I was banned from FB for 13 hours yesterday because of a comment that contained a well-known joke. It was on a friend's page and regarded the misuse of words. I mentioned "unique" and said people could use it to mean "unusual," but if they did, I'd have to do something to them. That line originated in the TV version of "The Hound of the Baskervilles": "Sherlock: I never did ask, Dr. Franklyn. What is it exactly that you do here? Doctor: Oh, Mr. Holmes, I would love to tell you, but then, of course, I'd have to ...you." It has since often been used as a joke often, but clearly, FB ain't got no sense of humor.

Search Results

Featured snippet from the web

  

 Went over to Von's early to get the makings for a typical French lunch, according to Martha Stewart. This isn't much different than an American lunch: ham and Swiss cheese on a buttered baguette. I was going to buy a more authentic long baguette, but saw a package labelled "French Bread" that was in individual rolls, so got that. I then set up the table for my little luncheon: 

And what a nice little luncheon it turn out to be. My guests came, as planned, at 12:30 and for a time, I had Edith Piaf singing "Non, je ne regrette rien" to carry out the French theme. I had the wine from Provence I had bought,  but Vickie declined. She brought non-alcoholic wine, which she and Suzanne had; Mary had soda. We sat in the living room and chatted for about a half hour, then I put out the food and we sat down. Everybody liked the sandwiches, salad, and especially, my crystal pickles. Suzanne had brought over the birthday cake and we put it in my room. I went in and lit the candles, then brought it out and we sang the song. Mary liked all of it, including the little child's device I got her (a stylus is used to reveal something on a card) and, of course, the cake. I also made her a card with a little birthday rhyme, each line starting with the letters of her name.

(Ha--I accidentally turned the font color red and now it doesn't want to go back to black, but actually, I like it like this, so will keep it for now.)

Vickie brought me a nice bottle of red (I'm not sure if its Merlot or not) and Suzanne this lovely rose she grew in her garden:

They stayed until about 4:00, then I cleaned up, loaded the dishwasher, and left. Bused to town, where I strolled Main and bought some sheets. Got home after 6:00; I wasn't hungry after the sandwich I had at lunch, so just went into the computer to see if my ban re Facebook had been lifted yet... 

Oh, I didn't mention I had been banned from posting or commenting? It's a weird story: My posts and comments were disallowed for thirteen hours because I had gone "against community standards." Tomorrow, I'll explain what happened and if anyone thinks we don't live in cuckoo land, I beg to differ. 

Friday The Thirteenth

The good news is that I was down 2.8 pounds at home at 128 and 1.4 down at T.O.P.S. to 129.4. I'm not sure why, as there didn't seem to be such a variation in scales before, but oh, well.

The bad news is that the meeting was a mess, as usual: Six of us attended and leader Lennie, for some foggy reason, delayed starting until late-comer Margaret got there. Why the rest of us should have to cool our heels because somebody's late is beyond me. And, of course, when we actually started, we all had to hear how we met our husbands. Sharon expanded this by going in to family history and what happened to her grandson and how she found an outfit in her closet she hadn't worn in years and--AAGH! 

Anyway, next week Trinity Lutheran is getting new floors, so we can't meet there. I offered to have them come here again and might host the week after, too, if I'm still alive after my dental ordeal.

Rushed home, had breakfast, then dusted and mopped the hard floors. Lunched, then took off for Trader Joe's at the mall to get rose wine from Provence, France. I don't really have salad bowls that I thought looked appropriately French, so I went to the shop across from the transit center and found just what I wanted.

Home, I completed the little rhyme I had written for Mary and spent some time putting it on a card. Came out pretty good, if I say so myself. 

 

Thursday

Another busy day: The nurse came a little early, at 9:30, which was fine by me. She was of Korean ancestry and had a slight accent, but what a professional, yet caring and kind young woman she was. She was here about an hour, asking questions about my health history, taking my vitals (see, I know the med talk!), and even giving me a minor memory test. While she was here, Suzanne rang my doorbell to ask if it was all right to bring a birthday cake tomorrow when I have her, Vickie, and Mary over for lunch. She said we'll make it for Mary's birthday. I know that was July 19, but I think it's a nice idea and sure, I told her, bring it. (Incidentally, that also relieves me from making dessert.)

After the nurse left, I made sandwiches for Jim and me, set the table, and awaited his arrival. He came, as usual, at 1:00, and we had our weekly session. He is very worried because his classes for fall are not full enough, so been cancelled and he will be unemployed. Damn, to be destitute at the age of 78, is terrible. 

Anyway, I asked Jim to drop me at the mall, which he did. I wanted to look for a little gift for Mary, in particular a child's book of some kind, but with a twist, such as music. Didn't find anything I wanted in Target, but also went to Trader Joe's to look for French wine. I have dishes that depict bistros and have the straw-bottomed wine bottle from Patrick, decided to have a French theme for lunch. I looked up French dishes, but am not about to try anything complicated, so will follow Martha Stewart's advice and serve ham and Swiss cheese on baguettes, which she says is a common French lunch. I'll go back to Trader Joe's for a rose from Provence that I saw. 

Bused from the mall to Wal-Mart for a taper to put in the wine bottle, then stopped at CVS, where I got a child's kind of scratch-off activity book (yeah, she's 87, but...). Home after 6:00, but I didn't feel like dinner anyway, so just had a few crackers. I had been watching the DVD about Edward R. Murrow, Good Night And Good Luck, but I actually don't like it much, especially as it's in black and white, so switched to All That Jazz, which I hadn't seen for years, but is terrific.

Unfortunately, I had a terribly restless night. Have T.O.P.S. this morning and want to clean the hard floors today, but will try to nap.     

Wowee, What A Fun Day!

It started out mundane enough, with just a 9:45 dentist appointment, but about 8:00, I got a text from my great-nephew, Vic Micolucci, saying "Are you in Santa Barbara?" I was sure it was a hacker, but called my niece, his mother, to find that was legit; he and a friend were in L.A. and on their way to Yosemite We texted back and forth and I suggested we meet at the Ventura museum, near the mission. We did, then strolled down Main and, since he wanted tacos, I took them to Limon y Sal, where we had lunch. We had great talk and a lot of fun. Vic said he and Jeff are "looking for wives." When they get serious, they shouldn't have any problem finding them, considering they had dates in various cities in California. Also, they're both pretty easy on the eyes. 

We said goodbye about 3:00, after taking pictures at the fountain. Vic asked to drop me off, but I wouldn't hear of it. We were right near the stop I take several times a week and I wanted to stop at the Market on the way home anyway. We hugged goodbye after a great day. Here are Vic and me in front of the mission. 

Home, I heard from Ellen that Greg's PSA level is .004, which is good news that means he won't need radiation for now. The doc wants to test every three months and, if it stays low, presumably, he won't need to be "zapped." 

Niece Carolyn then called and we had a very long talk about Betty and her situation in the new facility. There are some problems, but hopefully, they're aren't major.  Carolyn said Betty sometimes introduces her as "my twin sister." Far from making me feel bad, I think that's funny. I guess you have to take amusement where you find it.

Betty herself then called, thanks to her helper, Elizabeth. I chatted with both of them and was glad to do it.  

Here's the start of official Vic info on Vic. It's fun to see him on the Internet and realize he's my brother, Larry's, grandson.  

Vic Micolucci

I-Team reporter, anchor

Vic Micolucci is a news anchor and investigative reporter at News4Jax. He anchors the 8 and 9 a.m. hours of “The Morning Show” Monday through Friday and reports from the field in the afternoons.

 

Tuesday

Before lunch: I did lots of little household chores: stripped the bed, remade, put in two loads of wash, and found, washed, and rearranged some glass ware. I now think it's amusing to surprise Jim with different wine glasses every time he comes to lunch. I found some I had forgotten, which I had painted myself several years ago. This was when I volunteered for Caregivers, the outfit for which niece Carolyn used to write grant requests. As artwork, they're pretty dismal, but I care not, I'll serve them up when he comes tomorrow. 

Also did some food prep: Used the mandolin to julienne four onions, then stowed the result in the freezer. Put dried beans (they're beige, but I don't know what they're called) in the slow cooker, along with veggie juice, chopped onions, frozen broccoli, and seasoning, and let 'um simmer most of the day.

After lunch: I walked to Telephone Road, then took the 11 to Bed, Bath & Beyond to look at folding beds. Of course, they don't carry them in the store; you have to order on-line. I don't like that at all, as I won't be able to examine the thing first; think I'll see if any store around here carries them. Stopped at Target first to use the restroom and it was unspeakably filthy and disgusting. Told the manager, who seemed a befuddled teenager. I walked over to The Dollar Tree and got the small trash bags I like and a few other items. Bused home to find my beans were doing fine. Had them and a big mixed vegetable dish for din-din. 

Monday

 I'm not one of those who moan and cry over how much better it was in the old days. Oh, yes, it was great to be young and all that, but otherwise, I sure don't miss a lot of it...

Clearly, that's leading up to a "but," and here it is: But when it comes to handling your business and financial affairs, it sure as hell wasn't as frustrating as it is now. I spent the whole morning on 1. making an appointment with a new doctor, as my old one has left the practice; 2. contacting my homeowner's insurance company because after I got a notice my mortgage company hadn't paid it; 3. calling said mortgage company--Chase--to find it had been paid on July 30; 4. trying to add a credit option to the Access Van, which I had been told I could do on line, but no such thing; 5. calling Pacific Therapy for an appointment and every date with the p.t. I had seen before was not good for me (finally settled for her assistant on the ninth).

The rest of the day was immeasurably better. I met Noreen at Lure, one of my favorite restaurants, at 1:00 and we settled into a booth inside. I got sand dabs--delish--and a good draft beer, of course, she crab Louie and a glass of Chardonnay. We talked and talked openly and freely about a bunch of stuff, including her exes' habit of straying and my not always cheery thoughts about my childhood. It turned out she remembers when Mary's husband, Jim Monahan, was mayor; Noreen was born here and has lived here most of her life. When she worked, she was an R.N. at Community Hospital here.  She hasn't had the easiest life: her son died a few months ago and there have been other tragedies, but she has accepted them. (Aside from the fact that she has two Rottweilers, both over 120 pounds, she's pretty normal 😁.) Anyway, it was a good outing with a good person. 

After we parted, I stopped in a few places. Bought a blouse and yet another DVD. However, when I got home, I tackled the chore of putting together the ones I'll donate--there are about thirty and that's probably not all I'll get rid of. 

Anthony B. and Jim M.

 I had breakfast a half hour early--at 7:30, so I had plenty of time to eat, do the crossword, then go over to Von's for eggs and blueberries. Coming back in, I met Suzanne outside sweeping our joint walk. We compared notes about our Mary-sitting on Saturday and she surprised me by mentioning that Mary's ex had been mayor of Ventura. I added a newspaper article from two years ago about him. Shortly after, I left to bus to town to meet Ellen. 

The plan was to have lunch at Dargan's Irish Pub at noon, then go right next door to the Century 10 theatre for the 1:10 showing of Roadrunner. I got there early, so strolled around, then thought I'd buy the movie tickets ahead of time. When I got there, I was told it wasn't on until 4:10. The website had said there was a 1:10, but the guy at the movie said they had had trouble with their "platform." I was annoyed, and thought El wouldn't want to wait, but it turned out okay. We had a leisurely lunch, then went back to my place and dropped off the cart and valise I had left there when I kitty-sat. Drove back and saw the movie (after, of course, the 16,000 ads that come first).

The movie was pretty good. It didn't of course, solve the mystery of why Bourdain killed himself, but it was absorbing and interesting to watch. El drove me home and I got in about 6:30. I then called Noreen, whom I had planned to meet for lunch at Dargan's today, but I just didn't want to go to the same damn place, especially since I had been there with Stella a few weeks ago, so we decided on Lure, a restaurant I like a lot in both Ventura and Santa Barbara.

Following is the headline of a newspaper article on Mary's ex, who served as mayor from '87 to '89 and was in Ventura City government for 41 years. I assume he's still living as I found no obituary.

Ventura dedicates street near City Hall to Jim Monahan

Saturday

In the morning, Vickie texted Suzanne and me that she had decided to attend the memorial service in San Luis Obispo. As promised, I went over to Mary-sit at 8:45. Mary was again sitting on the couch with the child's book she likes to read (out loud) and play (it has kind of music box attached). Vickie left a few minutes after I arrived; she had left for me to see two loose-leaf books about Mary. I was impressed to see a number of newspaper clippings chronically her golf tournament wins. She also, it seems, was a champion pool player; there were newspaper articles about that, too. 

But the other scrapbook was most impressive: It contained pictures of, and information about, the large, intricate, and perfectly beautiful doll houses Mary used to make. Most of them have been donated to museums and other charities, except for one given to Mary's granddaughter.  The book also contained Mary's high school diploma from 1952. Nineteen fifteen two--how could that be? I graduated HSHS in 1954 and Mary couldn't possibly be two years older than I am. But she is; she's turned 87 on April 19. Looking at her, you'd never believe she was more than maybe sixty-eight or nine.  

The book also contained Mary's resume (she graduated from Ventura College with a degree in art) and her work history as a technician.  Interestingly, Mary's maiden name was Y Barra, so she's of Latina descent, but her married name is Monahan--as Irish as Molloy. Anyway, Mary and I chatted a bit--not very coherently--and got along okay.  I called Betty while I was there, with the usual confused result.

Suzanne came to spell me at 11:30 and off I went to prepare for Jim lunch. Made my usual chicken sandwiches, gave him cabernet sauvignon and I reverted to beer.  We had good talk and minor arguments, as ever, and he stayed until 3:30. I then bused to town, took books back to the library, picked up another Kellerman (I must wean myself away from him!), walked Main, and got home after 6:00.

Ellen called and we'll meet at noon today for lunch at Dargan's, then see Roadrunner, the documentary movie about Anthony Bourdain--yay!