Sunny Sunday

It was sunny in more ways than one. Not only did we enjoy the bountiful and beautiful sunshine, but I spent several sunny hours with my daughter.  at 1:00. El wI actually missed the bus to Ojai that got in at noon (that's a long story there's no need to repeat), but got thereas there to pick me up and we went to the new Ojai Noodle House. A Vietnamese restaurant with a twist it opened less than a year ago and we both enjoyed it immensely.

We then went right down the street to Ellen's and I watched (I should be ashamed of myself) as she cleaned the outdoor furniture while we talked and talked. The gardeners had done a great job with the outside and the inside was immaculate, thanks to El. She reorganized a few things and I particularly like her setup with this oriental group: 

                                           

She acquired those beautiful chests from Mike and Paula years ago. It's actually two pieces which can be used separately or together, as it is here.

As for El's professional life--only seven weeks until she retires from third grade! Her colleagues are giving her a party on May eighth and I'm invited--can't wait. Of course, I'll also be with her on the twelfth, Mother's Day, and will sleep over the night before. Somebody with a sense of humor had made her a "counting the days" paper chain and she removes one every day. Here she is pointing that out: 

Later, we played gin rummy and Ellen creamed me, as the saying goes They were her cards and I'm suspicious--I think she set them up! Good thing we weren't playing for money. 😁

We waited outside for the Access Van to take me home and El pointed out an odd plant growing on her property. It's very tall, probably six feet or more, and looks like something out of Jack and the Beanstalk. I took a picture and try to get somebody to identify it. That's just the sun that makes some of the leaves look pale; actually, they're all deep green:

I was out of my usual routine and was full from lunch, so I ate some pasta salad to which I added the last of my lima beans. I then found my absolute favorite movie of all time: 

I watched the entire thing and didn't get to bed until the ungodly hour of 10 pm! I even watched the credits and was stunned--and I remain stunned--to find it was made fifty years ago! The mind reels...

* For various reasons, I actually missed the bus to Ojai that got in at noon and reacted badly, but that's a long story there's no need to repeat. My attitude wasn't helped when I got a call from Susan, my former neighbor in Little Egg, to tell me my sprinkler system at the house was on. After contact with agent Kim, it turned out okay, as the sprinklers are on a timer. Hey, compared to the general course of my lucky life, things like that are just insignificant. I need to remember that.

Satisfying Saturday

 I did it, I did it, I did it;                                                                                                                                 Got rid of it, rid of it, rid of it!

All right, that doesn't scan properly, but I don't care--I finally got to FedEz and sent the devil box off to Verizon hell! 

I had walked to Telephone and taken the 11 to the Office Max shopping center, just across the street from Cricket, so I stopped there next. I doubled my data coverage for $1.33 and I'll pay only $5.00 more a month because I have it on automatic payment. That adds up to $35,00 per month total to cover my phone. No, I don't understand it, but I'll take it.

I then went to the bigger Target, which is so much better than the one at the mall. Bought another bath rug and a tub mat, plus blueberries, tangerines, and plant milk. I was pleased to find a nice bench in the shade, where I ate lunch and enjoyed watching passerbys. From there, I bused to the mall, caught the 10 home and got in at 3:00, having accomplished what I set out to do, and more. I did, however, sit and watch T.V. for an hour or so, then, even worse, took an hour nap. 

Don't quite remember what else I did until dinner, which was vegan, consisting of half the kabocha squash and the leftover lima beans. Got the mail, which included some kind of retirement package for Mike; took a pic and will ask if he needs it.

Other than that, it was pretty slow most of the day, but I feel better emotionally and that's good. Looking forward to being with my Ellen today. 

Friday

Note: I cannot understand this: I modified this, then published and got the message it would revert to a publishing date of April 26th. Why and how that happened, I can't understand, but I'm actually "publishing" this on Saturday, 6:18 am, on April 27th.

Weight: home, 125.4, so no change; T.O.P.S., 125.5, so I lost a pound. I did the program and it was well received. However, the unrelated chatter--mostly from Sharon, of course, went on so long before I started that we ran out of time and I'll present the rest next week.

Didn't get home and breakfast until 10:30 and I skipped the citrus and just had the oatmeal. Got over to the Thai restaurant at noon to meet Susan and Eliot (or Elliot) and we had a good time reminiscing about our teenage years. (Actually, Elly didn't say much). Susan is 74, so of a generation later than mine, but we've had similar experiences. They included bar-hopping--yes, while in high school--so we were pretty naughty. We ate and chatted until after 2:00, then said goodbye. I won't see her again for several months, as she leaves today to go back to Westchester, NY, until the next time she's here to baby-sit. Unfortunately, a lock of hair fell over Susan's mouth, making her look weird; she's actually more attractive than this picture shows: 

As I was crossing the middle area, I saw Lorraine at her usual spot and stopped to chat for a bit. Got home and took a nap, as I've done several times recently. I don't want to make this a habit, though, as I think it's unhealthy--for me, anyway. I then made a batch of cabbage fritters, again using cornmeal instead of flour. This takes awhile, especially to thinly slice the cabbage, but I like them a lot. I froze several in individual containers, reserving three for my dinner. 

Today, I plan to finally take that friggin' box to FedEx and send it off to Verizon. I fervently hope that will be my last interaction with that company, which I consider Satan's cohort.

Thursday

Left for the mall and Target a bit after 10:00. Returned the two large towels, picked up two packages of blueberries, then walked to The Market. Unfortunately, they're going out of business, as is the other store on Victoria where I go often. However, the store was poorly stocked and there were no read bargains. The only thing I bought was kabocha squash--two of them. I've always liked that variety and you don't find them in regular supermarkets. 

Diane, who had had a dentist appointment nearby, was next door on the patio of a small restaurant and we had lunch. Our usual far-ranging talk was enjoyable and we stayed for more than two hours. She and I then walked back to the transit center and, on the way, who did we run into but Jim. Stopped to chat with him--he has met Diane before--then continued on. She took the 11 and I the 21 bus home.

I spent an hour or so figuring what in the world I was going to do for the T.O.P.S. program I had promised to run today at the meeting. I should have prepared long before this, but what with my Verizon programs and house-rental obligations, I just didn't have time. My printer was acting up, too, but I pulled together a program.

When I finished, I made a turkey stir-fry for dinner. To the ground turkey, I added julianned onions, slivered orange and yellow sweet peppers, and roasted tomatoes. I had enough for two dinners, so ate one and stowed the other in the freezer for later.   

Later, Susan texted me to ask I was available to meet for lunch today, so we'll got to the Thai restaurent across at the shopping center. She goes back to New York tomorrow. 

Wednesday

Busy, but not in a good way. I'm sure nobody else would want to read it, but I've elaborated on my entry a few spots down entitled "The Nightmare Named Verizon." I consider I wasted four hours of my life on it yesterday and I want to keep a chronicle of my problems with them--another company right from hell along with BOA.

Other than that horror story, once I got home, I ate my lunch with O.J., then took a nap. I had Messaged my nephew, David, suggesting he consider presenting about his book at senior-living facilities. Many people of older ages lived through WWII and remember much of the information. As I suspected he had, he already has a list of facilities in New England (he lives in New Hampshire) and will be speaking at some of them.

After my nap--I wasn't tired, just bored to death--I went over to Von's for IPA, tomatoes, and so on.  I'm meeting Diane today for lunch after her dentist appointment, so at least,, that's something to look forward to. Darn, I wish I hadn't told Lennie I'd do the T.O.P.S. program tomorrow; I'll have to come up with something today.

I texted Greg to ask how he was adjusting to his new digs. He wrote back it "was and is a big adjustment," which doesn't seem too promising. Told him that one of these days, I'd pop into The Rainbow Bridge where he works. 

AAGH! I got a message that this machine  "unresponsive" because the battery is very low. Maybe I'll have to take it over to Office Max for first aid. Everything seems to happen at once! 

Tuesday And Noreen

I had planned to go to Verizon first before my lunch with Noreen. It's down Mills Street from the mall, where the transit center is, too. However, once I got to the transit center, it was already noon and the Verizon store is at least a half-mile away; so I knew I couldn't get to town by 1:00. I decided to continue on to meet Noreen and go to Verizon before going home. 

Even so, I was barely on time for lunch with Noreen at Immigrant Son, but I got there at 1:00. We had a great time; I always do with Noreen, as she's one of the few people I know who don't think it's up to them to give advice, whether you ask for it or not.

We talked--this seems to happen all the time--for almost three hours, then parted. I walked to Ventura Avenue for the bus, the down Mills Street to the Verizon store. (The following entry wouldn't interest anybody in his or her right minds (I refuse to subscribe to the illiteracy of using "their" in the singular), so it's there just to refresh my memory, if that's ever needed.

Almost 5:00 before I got in. Ellen called on her way home from work and we had a good chat. Saw the second-to-last O.J. saga and slept pretty well.

Note: See following entry for my Verizon ordeal.

The Nightmare Named Verizon

Tuesday, April 23:

This is just a memo for myself, in case I ever have to deal with that company from hell again: In October, 2023, after calling Verizon four times to ask for a shipping label so I could return their "box," I gave up and stowed it under my bed. Then, two days ago, I got a call that I owed them money because I hadn't return it. Called Verison yesterday and here's the saga: 

 I called at 9:15 am and was on the phone for one hour and seven minutes. Gave all the info--the saga of the "box," plus all my personal data and was told I'd be transferred to another department. Was, and the whole thing happened again; had to repeat my problem and data. Was transferred and did all a third time, then simply was sent to the original line! I kept getting asked for my account number and they could not grasp there is no account; I just wanted to send the damn box back. Finally got Justin in Fraud and after another long conversation, he put me on hold for a LONG time, then came back on to say all was okay, I wasn't liable for anything, and he was sending me to "Service" to fill me in on steps to take.  There, I talked to George, who said he couldn't do anything without an account number--AAGH! Well, what about pin number? What pin number??? So I was just screwed around. George said the only solution was to physically go to "corporate Verizon." By that he meant this retail store down the street from the mall. It's on Mill Street, so that meant I had to bus there, then walk roughly a mile to Verizon, then walk back to bus to town. I did so, stated my case to the manager, Rizo, and he went in the back and in fifteen or so, came back out with two sheets of paper. One, I'm to take to Fed Ex to mail the box back, the other is a copy for me, plus a confirmation number. I'll do that today.

Justin talk confirmation: 888-483-7200

George "call I.D.": 284-475-033

Rizo: for tracking number, call 1-800-922-0204 

Note: See previous entry for the day-to-day saga.

Wednesday, April 24:

Walked the mile and some to FedEx--I thought. I've shipped things there before, but when I got there, I discovered I was mistaken about the company--it was UPS and the label was for FedEx--damn. But wait, there was another FedEx at the WinCo shopping center, so I caught the 11 bus to the transit center and from there, took the 11 going the opposite way. Crossed Telephone Road and found...another UPS! After mentally cursing myself and Verizon and UPS and FedEx and the universe, I again took the 11 to the transit center then the 21 home. I had left at 10:00 and arrived home at 2:18, so had spent more than four hours and still have the Verizon box! It got worser and worser: Looked it up when I got home and found there's a FedEx in the Office Depot shopping center, which is just a short distance from where I had been. So I STILL have the box; I fear it's an albatross that, like the ancient mariner, I'm doomed to have it around my neck for good!

Monday

 I slept pretty well, I'm happy to say: got up once, but went back until after 6:00.  Got a call from Zak Dental to see if I could come in today, instead of Friday. Nope, and I was going to call them to say I wanted to cancel Friday and ocme next Tuesday. No prob and that's what I'll do. 

After breakfast, I walked to CVS for their decently-priced paper product (I'm being coy). On the way home, I stopped in to Great Clips and found Maria there. I could have gotten my hair trimmed then, but just didn't feel like it. She's off on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so I'll have her do it another time. 

Got my lunch ingredients out, set the table, and otherwise prepared for Jim.  He came at his usual 12:30 and we had an enjoyable time. He seemed to be in better spirits and talked more than usual. I told him I wanted to take him out for his birthday (on April 29th, he'll' be 81) and we'll make arrangements for that. He ate most of the Bertolli's Chicken Parm and liked the baked apple dessert. After, we did the crossword puzzle thing and actually chatted a bit, Jim staying until almost 5:00.

Incredibly, I got a call from Verizon, saying I owe them two hundred bucks for the set-up box. This was from six months ago and I never did switch to Verizon. I had changed my mind about switching carriers and was never able to get them to send me the information about how to return. I then found they had "apartment six" listed on my address. All apartment numbers here have three or four digits and besides.  Called Verizon and was on hold so long, I hung up. I'll have to pursue this further, damnit. 

Sunday

I reserved yesterday for chores.  Stripped the bed and washed the sheets while I had breakfast. It pleased me that, just as I responded to the last "down" clue, they were finished (yes, I'm weird), so I switched it to the dryer and continued the puzzle. After, I remade the bed, then prepared the four enormous apples and popped them in the oven. I then cleaned the hard floors--quite a job and it takes a while, but they look good. I then put down the new bath rugs and set out the new towels. Nice, but I decided to take the large ones back. At five foot two, I find them uncomfortably big and bulky. I'll ask Jim to drop me at the mall after we have lunch today.

I then spent a lot of time emptying my decorative boxes and stowing the contents elsewhere. I'm afaid I have a tendency to do that--I should probably discard them, instead.  I've decided to go through my earlier plan to move the white bookshelves back into the bedroom, put my office items (printer paper, envelopes, paper cutter, and so on) into the boxes, so I can consolidate.

I started to walk over to Von's and CVS for a few minor items, but for some reason, I had a backache,so didn't go. Instead, I watched a T.V. documentary on O.J. Simpson, who died recently.  I've read several books about him and the murders and this is actually pretty absorbing, as it concerns his whole life, not just the murders.

Showered, washed my hair, and settled in after a quiet, but pretty good day.  

Note:  Boy, I hope I'm not losing it. Yesterday, I wrote that I couldn't remember what I did earlier, but  went to Target at 10:30. Actually, that's when I set off for town, where I strolled Main and bought a black and white top (Diane will be envious). I stopped at Target on the way home. I'm surprised and a little disturbed that my earlier jaunt had slipped my mind until now. 

Saturday

About 10:30, I once again bused to Target at the mall. I had decided to add two whites to the towels I bought before; did so and just bused back without stopping anywhere else. Lunched while watching something or other on the telly (my new routine, I guess), then took a short nap. 

I was awakened by my nutty neighbor (luckily in another building), Lorraine, calling to tell me about an even nuttier one, Michelle (in Lorraine's building) and her grievances with management. (Since management has to deal with both of them, I sympathize with management.) Do I have a sign on my back saying "crazy people, here's your soulmate" or what?  I'm complaining here, but actually, I find both of them amusing--I just don't want to get too chummy. 

Refreshed by my nap, I took my cart and walked over to Von's for various, including the biggest apples I've ever seen--so large I bought only four. I'll season and bake them today and have them for dessert tomorrow, as I'm having Jim over for lunch. I called him last night, taken aback, as ever, by his manner when he answers the phone. As he always does, he sounded as if he had just awakened--vague, hesitant, and bewildered. In a way, I guess that's accurate, as he had been reading, so he was in another state of being. We chatted a bit and I'll see him at 12:30. 

Friday

Weight: stayed the same at home (125.4) and at T.O.P.S. was up an inconsequential .06 to 125.4. Maria brought a guest and we had a fairly interesting session. I volunteered to do the next one program. As usual, I didn't get breakfast until 10:30, then set out on my errands, practically duplicating my Thursday treks. Walked to the bank and spent an hour there, first getting the new cashier's check for Kim. Believe me, I was pretty vocal about my annoyance. Also got a cashier's check to send Cliff in Florida, to refund his and Susan's security deposit for renting my house. Went from there to Wal-Mart for a few things, then bused to the Post Office to send off the checks--Cliff's by certified mail. Walked home, had lunch--again at 2:30 while watching T.V.  Did some minor chores then got my beer and glass and stepped next door to Suzanne's for our long-delayed Happy Hour.  

Vickie got a good report from her cardiologist and the cancer seems to be at bay, but she's having a flareup of her arthritis. Her right side is bothering her a lot and she's limping. It's ironic and sad that Vickie's only in her sixties--Suzanne late seventies, yours truly a decade over that, and Vickie's the one with the serious health problems. 

I had a terrible time in the sleep department. Awoke at 1:30 for the usual and couldn't fall back for more than an hour, I think. 

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

Darn, I forgot to record that on Tuesday, while I was walking past Trader Joe's, I heard somebody behind me say, "Wow, what a looker!" That was a pivotal line of mine in the last show I was in, After All This Time and when I turned around, there was dear Alphonse, one of my favorite guys from Fractured Actors:

We hugged and caught up with each other's doings. He told me that he and Lindsay--they started going together during the last show--are going to Disneyland next week. They're both vegan and so healthy, I'm in awe. (Of course, they're younger than my grandson.) BTW, Lindsey, a physical therapist, is at least three inches taller than Alphonse: 

I think I mentioned before I think that's healthy. Why should men have to be taller than their wives or girlfriends, anyway? I think it often makes both short men and tall women feel inadequate or unattractive. Makes no sense at all.

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

Thursday

Well, it started off nicely, but things got murky later. R.E. agent Kim emailed me the Certificate of  Occupancy, which means the house passed inspection and all systems are go--yay! Also, I got a nice message from Lori, my new tenant. I hope to get to know her and her mother better after they move in.

After breakfast, I walked to the bank to get a cashier's check for what I owe Kim for various things I would have paid directly. That was an annoying hassle, but it was issued. I then walked to The Market for parm cheese and berries; incidentally, the place is going out of business, as Bed, Bath & Beyond did, and so many others. What does that suggest? From there, I bused to the mall and Target to return one of the bathroom rugs and get a larger one, plus buy another towel. 

I had prepared an envelope to send the check to Kim and dropped it in the mailbox before I got home. That wasn't until 2:30, so I had a late lunch; embracing my wild ways, I ate with Netflix, then took an hour's nap. I was awakened by the phone. It was the teller at BOA to inform me that the cashier's check "didn't go through" because of a "glitch in the system." What?!  Now I have to walk back there today to pick up a new check and send it to Kim.  

Called Ellen and found she's been having problems with arthritis in her knee and took the day off yesterday for an x-ray. She's now working on report cards, but seemed in good spirits.

T.O.P.S. today, so late breakfast--oh, woe is me. However, after a few glitches in the sleep department, too, I've been sleeping well. Hmm...maybe things aren't so murky, after all.

Wednesday And Choosing Sides

I did some filing and cleaning up in the morning; also emailed the office that I need a new toilet seat. Left at 10:30 and got the 11 bus to Petit Avenue. Dropped my donations off at Goodwill, then met Diane at noon at the park across from her place.

We had a good talk, as always. Lots about family stuff, interspersed with childhood memories, her marital and boyfriend adventures (married and divorced twice, had two partners--at different times, of course--one eight, the other seventeen years younger than she was). Of course, we filled each other in on our present-day doings, as well as lamentations about sleeping problems, aches and pains, as well as info about neighbors and friends. 

We said goodbye about 2:30 and I got home in time to see my nephew, Dave Wessel, on Zoom, promoting his book:

Dave is a retired diplomat who served at embassies in central America and Europe:  

He and Polly now live in New Hampshire and four ago, they visited here and we had lunch at Lure, along with Betty, Steve, and Carolyn. Polly is nothing like the cutesy-poo image she seems to suggest here:

Dave has a real presence and was wonderfully interesting and well-spoken in the Zoom presentation. I just started his book, but now, as soon as I'm finished Full Service, will finish it and maybe delve into more Nazi history. He mentioned several.  

 

BTW, I clearly remember being at Dave's and Polly's wedding, which took place on Long Beach Island. Also remember them visiting me at Rider before they were married, plus when Dave was at Rutgers, and stayed overnight at our place. What's more, I remember when he was born.  

Tuesday

As has been happening lately, I spent an age dealing with R.E. agent, Kim, and requirements  surrounding the house. I got the quarterly water bill (the water company won't allow the name to be changed, so I receive it, then send to the tenants) for $187.25. I can't quite figure out how much I should pay and how much I should pay myself, but I can't get my brain around it.

Had lunch early, then the SCAN/Uber guy picked me up a little past noon for my eye appointment. I was early, but that was okay, as I was taken early, too. Eye is all cleared up and I don't have to go back until September to see the retina guy. Walked from there to the mall and just as I was approaching Target, niece Carolyn called. I sat down on a wall and we proceeded to talk for 45 minutes. We all have interesting--to say the least--family issues, I guess. Anyway, I hope my dear niece can get together before too long.

I bought bath rugs and towels at Target in a color that used to be called "dusty rose." Here are Betty and me in the capes, caps, and draw-string bags Aunt Maggie made us for Easter. Our neighborhood playmate, "Whizzie" Eaton, is  between us. I had the photo colorized and it's a little too light--dusty rose is a deeper pink--but here we are on Rosborough Avenue, c. 1942:

Once I got the bath items home, I thought they looked pretty chintzy. Should I take them back or just keep them until I decide on different ones? Hmm...maybe I'll look on-line. 

Home at 4:00 and by that time, I was hungry, so had some snacks in front of the T.V.  I've been into real-life murder lately and watched a horrendous show on Netflix,which recounted the story of a young woman who arranged the killing of both her parents. 

Lunch with Diane today. 

Monday

Set off for the mall and Target at 10:30. I got some staples (plant milk, blueberries, grapefruit, etc.), but decided to hold off buying the bathroom stuff.  I'll again be in the neighborhood today when I go to my Miramar (eye) appointment and will do it then. Called SCAN Transportation to take me there today. 

I went from Target to the post office to send off my DIL's mail, then stopped at Von's on the way home for lunchmeat. Ate my lunch in front of the television, a habit I've gotten into lately.  I'm watching a Prime series on murder in royal families. It's by Brits, of course, although it includes Mad King Ludwig of Bavaria.  As with so many of these shows, it fearfully over-written. I think so often there simply isn't enough material to sustain an hour, so they have to beef it up. Makes it boring, it seems to me.

Took an hour nap after, then putzed around on this laptop. Left at 4:30 for dinner with the Soaring Spirits gang. I decided to take the overpass and bus from Telephone Road and actually ran into Susan on my way. She was pushing her little granddaughter, Eliot, so accompanied me part way. 

At the Stone Fire Grille, the Soaring Spirts gang had a good time, as ever. Gayle held forth interminably about her ever-so-boring escapades and future cruise plans, Susan looked incredibly young and attractive, and Vera bound us all together in her warm and lovely way. She always takes me home after the dinner meeting and I got in at 7:30.  

Sunday And Susan

A fairly busy morning and lots of contacts--to wit:

--Former tenant, Susan, texted that she'll be near my house, turn on the outside water and also show the new tenants where it is. What a doll!

--R.E. agent Kim, called to say that now the township requires that a fire extinguisher must not only be in the  kitchen (there already is one), but must be attached to the wall--AAGH! Kim say she'll do it, rather than have me have to hire someone. We also discussed the Landlord Registration form, which she had sent me. I completed it and sent a copy to her, as she requested. This is just one of piles of documents the township inflicts on people and it's infuriating, damnit;

--Ellen called and she and I had a good chat for twenty or so;

--I was pleased to get a call from Mary Hoffman, to whom I haven't spoken for probably two years. We talked for more than an hour, discussing the family matters we're living through, in addition to other things. She said one of her neighbors in Shalom House in Margate is Sheila Rosen, who asked to be remembered to me. She and I were in the acting group "Players And Playwrights At The Jersey Shore," and we presented at Shalom House ten or twelve years ago. Later, I found this pic of the event:

I'm the one with the mustache; not sure which one is Sheila.      

--My New York* friend, Susan, and I texted back a forth and finally settled on meeting at her daughter's place for dinner. Daughter and SIL are not only going to the Dodger game, they're taking the two-year-old with them. That seems odd, but maybe Eliot (that's the child's name) is a fan. I got there at 5:00 and we had a glass of wine while getting to know each other better and Susan made dinner of chicken on fresh lettuce, which she broiled. We talked and talked and I didn't get home until 8:00, but had a good time. Susan is 74, is a retired structural engineer and interesting, to say the least. More on her another time. 

--Niece Carolyn called while I was at Susan's and darn, again, the phone didn't ring. Said she'd get back to me this afternoon

It rained off and on until late afternoon, so I busied myself with making my signature (ha!) tomato/onion/garlic roast and chopping some sweet peppers for later. Jumped in the shower, washed my hair, then left for Glenwood Avenue and Susan's dinner with Susan.

*I mistakenly wrote earlier that Susan lived in L.A., but no, it's Queens, New York. Don't know how I got that confused. 

Saturday

Noreen called and we again switched our lunch date, as she had forgotten a commitment she had on Wednesday. Now we'll get together next Wednesday, the 23rd, instead. Suzanne rang my bell to bring me two avocados from Mike upstairs. These have  to soften, but then Mike himself brought me two that were ready to eat. I sliced one and added it to the luncheon table for Jim and me. I had made a sort of half-bought, half-made beef stew, combining a few things with frozen vegetables. With the avocado and baked apples for dessert, it made an okay meal. Naturally, it was to be accompanied by wine for him and ale for me..

Hold up, Mimi! What do you mean, it "was to be"?  Because Jim didn't show, that's why. He always comes at 12:30 and when it got to be 12:45, I called him. No answer. Called him again at 1:00. Nothing. Now I was concerned. I've been having him over for lunch for five or more years now (for a long time, it was weekly) and he's almost never been late, let alone that late. If it hadn't been raining, I would have taken the bus over there and knocked on his door. 

Happily, he called at 2:30 to say he had forgotten to put it on his calendar. Since we went to the potluck on Tuesday, I assumed he had done that. He apologized and said he had been "with a friend." I was glad to hear that, and wasn't upset over the mixup, just relieved. In fact, I had done it myself a few days. I forgot to note here that I had thought our social hour at Suzanne's was the day before yesterday, but it's not until the 19th. 

Susan R. and I just exchanged texts and the upshot is, her daughter and SIL are taking the baby to a Dodger game and I'll walk there for dinner at 5:00.    

Friday A Picture From The Past

Miniscule gain at home (up .04 to 125.4) and miniscule loss at T.O.P.S. (down .02 to 125.9), no prob. Neither Lora nor Sharon were there, so there were only five of up, including the new member, Mary Ann. When we were almost finished the meeting, a woman named Maria came in, who wants to join our group. We talked with her a bit and I gave her my card; if she wants more info, she can call me.

Home, late breakfast, then I walked the mile and half to Ralph's. I was happy to find "roasting vegetables," all prepared, as I had some "beef roast au jus and savory sauce" in the freezer. I decided to serve that for Jim's lunch today, but didn't feel like doing a stir fry. This should be pretty good. For dessert, I'll just give each of us a baked apple, which I make often. Also got jumbo blueberries, my current snack craze.

Bused home and didn't have lunch until almost 3:00. I then--I should be ashamed to admit it!--sank further into the pit of decadence and watched Prime Video while I ate. I saw a documentary on murder and royal families, and I enjoyed it. The first episode was on the Romanovs, a topic about which I know a fair amount. It laid out their murder by the Bolsheviks, plus the Anna Anderson hoax; very absorbing. Next is on Jack the Ripper. After, I took an hour nap and felt refreshed when I got up.

Julie, back from South America, called me and we had a nice chat. She mentioned that Lora is running a tour to Portugal in June and I'll alert Diane to that as she had expressed an interest.   

Called Noreen and we made date for lunch tomorrow at Immigrant Son. However, shortly thereafter, my out-of-town friend, Susan R., texted me to say her daughter and SIL are going to a Dodgers game tomorrow and could we meet for dinner? I was sure Noreen wouldn't mind, so I called her back and we switched to Wednesday.   

Keith Williams, a guy I "met" on Facebook* colorizers old photos and he posted this yesterday: I find it strangely fascinating and shared it. Imagine a world like this:

But look more closely: Is the child on the path contemplating the future? Are any on the stairs destined to die young? What about the two Black boys who just happened to be walking by on the promenade in the background? Would they ever be asked to join the privileged? 

*It drives me crazy that "Facebook" is always abbreviated as "FB." It's one word, damnit, so what's with that? (The old English major dies hard.) 

Thursday

In the morning, I got a nice text from Greg, wrote him back, and we agreed to keep in touch. Got a message from Patti R, I called her and we chatted. Niece Carolyn called and so did Ellen, on her way home from work, so I had some good conversations.

Speaking of...I met Diane at noon at our library lunch place; neither of us realizing this branch doesn't open until 2:00. That was okay, as we were fine in our usual spot outside until then. It was a gorgeous sunny day and we happily chatted about family, friends, and how great it is that Diane can play ping-pong.

After, I picked up the book I had requested about Scotty Bower, a sex procurer for the likes of Rock Hudson, Walter Pidgeon, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, and dozens of other stars and bigwigs in Hollywood. This was during the forties, fifties, and sixties, but of course, nothing like that goes on today. Certainly not. Never. They're pure as the driven snow in 2004, that's for sure.

T.O.P.S. this morning, and I'm anything but pure as the driven snow in the healthy eating department; I'm sure I've gained, but will find out soon. At 5:00, Vickie and I will join Suzanne at her place at for our social session/happy hour; only one of us will be having booze, of course--now, which one would that be?

                                                   😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁

Wednesday

Happy day! Early on, I contacted Monica in the Little Egg Zoning Office and was told that all my documents were received, as well as my check and the mercantile license was issued. I immediately sent it to agent Kim and and she prompty wrote back that she'll send some kind of something or other for the code thing today and I fervently hope that's the end of it.

Susan, my longtime former neighbor, returned my call of the other day and we had a long, satisfying talk. I caught up with Sunrise Bay doings and filled her in on my new tenants, who will be her across-the-street neighbors.

Left for town about 11:00 and was there in plenty of time to stop in a few shops before meeting Sally at Dargan's. She was early and so was I, a good omen to begin with. We than proceeded to talk for a solid three hours. We have so much in common--but differences, too, which makes life interesting. She is 74,  was born in Fairlawn, N.J. and moved to California in her early twenties before she was married. She lives very near the beach in Oxnard; has owned the house for years and it most be worth a pretty penny now.Has an adopted son (her first husband's child) and two daughters, as well as a granddaughter. Son is either an ophthalmologist or optometrist (can't remember which) with a successful practice up north. Both daughters have horses, which they board at a rance up in the hills. I learned lots more about her and she about me, but I won't recount it here.   

Sally has had breast cancer and several other serious conditions, but so far, so good. As I mentioned before, she is serious;y overweight and we talked a lot about my 72-pound loss in Jersey when I was in WW and my 52-pound loss here. More important, we discussed keeping it off.

Anyway, it was a neat day and we'll surely do it again. After we parted--to car and bus--I stopped in a few stores, then bused home and got in close to 5:00.  Meeting Diane for what we call our "Lib Lunch" (lunch next to the Hill Street branch of the library) at noon and I'm looking forward to that. What I'm not looking forward to is T.O.P.S. tomorrow because I've over-indulged myself this week--naughty me!

Tuesday

Ran over to Quest at Von's for my blood test at 7:10 and was home before 8:00. Had breakfast, then met Suzanne outside and off we went to WinCo. I got a bunch of heavy stuff I would have had a hard time transporting otherwise, including onions, tomatoes, oatmeal, acorn squash, and so on, all in large sizes.*

Home after 11:00 and putzed around until lunch. After, I tackled the four pounds of onions I had bought and using my trusty Chop Wizard and julienne device, chopped some and julienned the rest. I then cored, seasoned, and roasted four big apples,  and separated them for the freezer. 

Jim picked me up at 6:00 and off we went to the Dudley House potluck. As ever, it was enjoyable, although ever since COVID, it wasn't as heavily attended as it had been in earlier years. The speaker was Stacy H., who addressed us from the year 1915. She was impersonating the daughter of Theodosia Shephard, a well-known Ventura gardener of the late 1800s:

On the way home, I invited Jim for lunch on Saturday. I've been feeling a little guilty (guilt's my middle name), as I haven't had him over lately. I'll just have something simple, and maybe serve the roasted apples for dessert. Didn't get home until after 8:00.

*Literary Note: Suzanne and I often share what we're reading--she likes "historical fiction," which I intensely dislike and I noted I'm reading what I think of as Ira Gershwin's literary bio. I'm a musical illiterate, but love the lyric  part of songs and this is fascinating, as it goes deeply into the structure of some of his lyrics. We then talked about other writers and I was surprised to learn she had never heard of Vladimir Nabokov--good grief, he was a literary giant, also one of my favorite authors of all time. His autobiography, Speak, Memory (isn't that the best title ever for the genre?) is a marvel and endlessly fascinating. He fiction is superb, too, of course; he wrote in both Russian, translated later, and in English. I wrote to him via his publisher, but didn't hear back. I actually remember when he died and I felt a real sense of loss. Nabokov taught at Cornell and if I visit in Jersey this summer, I hope to see my granddaughter, who will be interning there. If so, I'll ask to see his papers and artifacts, which he left to the university. Interestingly, when I mentioned Nabokov to Jim he was very familiar with him; that was good to hear. 

Monday

Did two washes, first sheets with a few other things, then the big, heavy skirt I'm donating to Dudley House. Did not see the eclipse, which was only partial here, anyway. I didn't have the special viewing device and was hesitant to take a chance otherwise. 

Diane emailed to ask if I could meet her for lunch in town today, but I have a full one planned, so we'll meet for lib lunch on Thursday. Suzanne, Vickie, and I went back and forth about when to meet for Happy Hour, and finally settled on Friday at 5:00. Vickie has oncology and cardiology appointments coming up, as well as other problematic things, so I hope nothing interferes with it for her.

Packed my lunch and went to town about 12:30, ate at the mall, then went to Penney's and Target looking for new bath rugs. They had little or nothing I wanted, so I'll have to go to Bed, Bath & Beyond, I guess, or go on-line.

Ellen called on her way home for work and we had a good long talk. She'll be living alone now for the first time in--ten years, I think. We talked about Target not having any toilet lid covers and she said most people don't use them anymore. Hmm... maybe I should not, either.  

Full day today: blood test at 7:10, WinCo with Suzanne at 9:00, and Dudley House Potluck at 6:00. In between, I want to go to Target and pick up those bath rugs. Must get a mat for the tub, too.   

Sunday

So I did the usual Sunday things, then jumped in the shower, washed my hair, and prepared for my Dudley House docent duties. Also, I was alerted by Facebook that Hedda Gabler took place ten years ago! I appeared as the aunt and here I am in everyday clothing (!) and in mourning: 

Here's the full cast--boy, that was a great group:

I doubt very much if I could successfully memorize that much dialogue today, let alone the nuances, blocking, and so on. 

As long a I'm into show-bizzy stuff, here's some info related to my "performance" of yesterday. The Access Van dropped me off right at 1:00, Other docents and I chatted until people came in. Lynne did the first batch (downstairs only; Stacy does upstairs), then I did my turn with downstairs. I led three groups and the tours went well; I had to glance at my notes only a few times. 

Here are a few pics of the Dudley House venue. On the lawn, some ladies and gentlemen--including the sheriff and his deputy--were playing croquet: 

The front hall:

(I think the "safety strips" on the stairs are an abomination. Good grief, nobody could mistake those steps for a flat surface!)

Parlour and dining room. 

Lynne and one of the old cars that were displayed outside.

Dudley House is open only from 1:00 to 4:00, but Lynne and others had to close up and I helped. Lynne took me home and I didn't get in until after 5:00, but that was okay.

I'm in my good sleep phase, I'm happy to say, and didn't get up until 5:30.  One of our little social sessions at Suzanne's this evening, and I'm looking forward to catching up with the virgins.  

Saturday

Yesterday, I climbed out of my doldrums to some extent. Overall, it was a semi-sweet day that included a trip down to the shoreline to see a particular house. That was all when it came to excursions, but it was enjoyable on a gorgeous sunny day.  It's amazing how changeable the weather is here: At six am, it was 39 degrees--brrr!--but in the afternoon, it was in the seventies. Luckily, the wind had died down....(You can be pretty sure when I start writing about the weather, I have little else of interest to say.)

Oh, but here something fascinating: When I got home and had dried my tears, I blanched, seasoned, and roasted the cauliflower I had bought the other day. I had no mayo, so used Miracle Whip, which isn't nearly as good. Think I'll reserve that for sandwiches and buy mayo.

Another food-related bulletin: Jim and I are going to the potluck at Dudley House on Tuesday and I couldn't decide what to take. I've already done Irish creme, crystal pickles, banana bread, cranberry meatballs, and lots of other dishes. I don't feel like making anything elaborate, so maybe I'll just settle for  snickerdoodles or simply bring a bottle of wine.  

Looked over my spiel for Dudley House, which I'm doing today. Called the Access Van to get there and Lynne will take me home. 

Ellen called in the evening  just to say hello and we had a good, long talk. Lots of changes going on in her life, prominently her retirement in less than three months--yay!

 

Friday

Home: up .04 to 125. T.O.P.S.: up a pound to 126.1, both well within my comfort zone, so I'm okay with them. Lennie asked me to conduct the meeting, which I did, having brought my program on ultra-processed food. It went okay, although I really hadn't prepared very well. I also shared with the group my phone visit with Bobbi and showed them the pics she had sent me of her broken ankle/leg.

I signed up to be in Fractured Actors' 29 1/2 -Hour Playwriting Festival next month. I was in one with LETCO years ago and it was fun. Had to sign a two-page, densely written "Talent Release" in boring legalese that grants F.A. the right to use my image, voice, likeness, name, biographical information, etc. in photos, film. videotape, and other recordings, and blah, blah, blah.... Combined with the fact that alcohol is no longer offered at the shows (as of Comic Potential last month), this makes me think an attorney has come on board.     

Home, breakfast, then I didn't do much productive all day. (But why do I have to be productive, anyway?) I actually sat and watched a piece on the royal family called From George VI to Kate. I'm not sure why I'm interested in the royal family, as they seem a dull bunch overall. I thought I  might bus to town, but the wind was so strong, I was afraid. Walked over to Von's for goodies (cauliflower, broccoli, and apples) and even that was a little scary. I hope it stops. Some rain was predicted, too, although it didn't happen. 

All in all, it turned out pretty dreary. Today should be better.

Thursday

A dreary one. The few bright spots included Sally E., the woman who left me her number at the doctor's office on Wednesday. I called her and we had a very enjoyable chat. I was charmed when she told me she was of Irish descent and we started talking about what could be called "the Irish personality." She actually noted the bogus idea that the Irish tend to be light-hearted and fey; not true for my antecedents or for hers. Anyway, we had a good talk, then made a date to meet for lunch at Dargan's next Wednesday.

Aside from that pleasant encounter, not much went on. I finally found the "trust documentation" the township wants and have to decide how to get it to the zoning office--electronically or via a hard copy. I did two loads of wash--color and a small white--and prepared the T.O.P.S. program for today on the health dangers of ultra-processed foods. 

It was one of those partly cloudy and too-cool (low sixties and windy) days I dislike and, aside from getting the mail, I didn't go out all day. I took a nap--from sheer boredom, I'm afraid, did a few inconsequential chores and otherwise lazed around.

And to top it off, I just went out to get the paper and it's raining! Well, at least I slept okay, even though I had taken a nap.

Wednesday

A trying day in the morning, but better later. For openers, I received an email from the zoning office of Little Egg Harbor Township telling me that my application for a mercantile license (required when you have a house to rent) was denied. Why? Because I failed to submit 1. proof of $500,000 homeowners insurance; 2.) a trust documentation and 3.) the $50 application fee. Okay, I had forgotten to enclose the fee, so I sent it off. Contacted Groendyke Insurance and yes, of course, I'm covered, but she has to send me something or other. As for the "trust documentation," I have no idea what that means and am still waiting to hear back from the township for an answer.

That was trying enough, but then I had to go to Primary Medical. I was picked up by Uber--this time, by a neat guy named Tim, who owns a sound studio and business and is also in acting. He has acted and sung in several musicals in Port Humene and Camarillo and also produces theatre. He's no matinee idol (old expression)--probably in his early sixties and quite portly (or porky 😄), but of course, we had great fun comparing notes. 

As for Primary Medical, yeah, it's most likely Basel cell and I'll get sent the referral. While I was waiting to see Natalie, the P.A., a woman and I struck up a lively conversation. She was called in before I was and when I came out of my appointment, I found a note from her on my coat, with her name and phone number, asking me to call. I liked her, so I'll do that and maybe invite her to meet for lunch.

Took the bus and went directly to the library in town. I had watched a Prime Video piece on Scotty Bowers, a procurer in old-time Hollywood and wanted to read his book, Full Service. Darn, the book is being held at the Ventura Avenue branch and I didn't want to go that far, so asked if it could be sent to the Hill Street branch. Yes,but it won't get there until Monday or Tuesday.

Home and I finished my cousin, Marifran's, book, which is essentially about her husband's depression and the problems in their marriage because of it. I called her and we had a long talk. We agreed that our fathers, two of the nine children our grandparents had, probably both suffered from depression, as well as other members of that family. I'm not talking, of course, about being a little down now and then, but of a deep, unlying sadness; in her husband's case, it manifested itself in anger. (In my opinion, the fact that we were all brought up in a insane cult exacerbated it.) Happily, Ed is now on effective medication and has been for years. I'm going to write a review of the book on Amazon.

Actually, it wasn't such a bad day. It's just that I get frantic and overreact to problems. I also get angry too often and too quickly. Am I depressed? No, I'm pretty sure not, but if I ever think I am, I'll look for help right away.

Tuesday

Showered, dressed, and breakfasted (as Betty would react to that announcement: "big whoops!"), then sat down to order my OTC items. I had $122.00 left and, in truth, it took me a while to choose, as I really don't use that much OTC and the selection is limited. Anyway, my stuff should be arriving shortly.

Later, I had an unusual experience. My appointment at HEAR-USA was at 1:00 and I had scheduled SCAN/Uber to take me there (I usually go somewhere after, so bus home). Got the text that the driver was on his way, waited out front, he didn't come, I called (they text you the driver's phone number) and he insisted he was already there. A long, infuriating conversation ensued with him insisting he was in the parking lot, which he wasn't, and finally, after we shouted at each other--and he was getting more and more upset--I told him I wasn't going to get in a car with him, so buzz off. This was complicated by the fact that I could understand almost nothing of what he said--he must be a recent arrivee. Anyway, I immediately called the transportation person and after a lot of talk, found the driver was told to go to Ventura Del Sol--which was sold five years ago and became SO-FI apartments. Also, the GPS sent the drivers to Berkshire Avenue, not Telegraph Road for some weird reason. Anyway, it was a big, fat mess and I bused to my appointment. I was almost an hour late, but luckily, Amanda wasn't busy, I got fitted with the new hearing aid (the jury's still out on that), and I was finished in a half-hour...

...well, finished with the ears, but I had gotten up with a sore right eye. Miramar is right next door to HEAR/USA, so I took a chance, stopped in, and asked if a doctor could just recommend an OTC eye drop. Well, of course, not, I had to see a doc, so they fit me in.  I didn't get out of there for almost two hours, but I was grateful they took me at all. Yes, I have a infection and doc gave me an RX, 

Walked back to the transit center and stopped at Target for plant milk and veggie straws, then bused home, stopping at CVS to get the drops, which I'll use four times a day. Have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Carter in two weeks. 

Today, Primary Medical to see P.A. Natalie and get referred to the dermatologist. Damn, I'm sick of this medical stuff. 

Monday

I had every intention of going to the regular monthly Soaring Spirits lunch yesterday. However, I was so caught up in the business/financial crapola to which I'm a slave, I just wasn't able to fit it in. Along with other chores, I called Atlantic City Electric to get the bill back in my name (when the new tenants come in, I'll transfer over); the gas company to get that back on; agent Kim to discuss some other house-related info; and the Little Egg Township zoning office. That last was and is so infuriating. For one thing, the number on their website has been disconnected--why don't they correct it?  For another, you call the zoning officer and have to leave a message; you call the office itself and you also have to leave a message. I called them both twice and haven't heard back. Called Susan, my present tenant, whose move-out date was yesterday; sent an email to former neighbors to tell them the new people could come in May 1, and did several other things of that ilk. When I came up for air, it was after 1:00 pm and too late for lunch with the S.S. gang (I'll see them in two weeks for dinner), so I just made a ham sandwich and had that.   

Gayle B. called me in the middle of all this. She was driving back from Easter at her son's house in Bakersfield and wanted to talk about missing Anne, whose funeral we attended together. We did and she said she felt a little better. Jim called me about 3:30, which he does only occasionally. I think he was hoping for a lunch invite, but I'm just too jammed up right now. However, we had a pretty good chat and I'll see him next Tuesday, when he picks me up for the Dudley House Covered Dish. I'm conducting the downstairs tour on Sunday and I must try on my costume to be sure it all comes together.

Regina S. called. She has to take a drivers test again, not because of her age, but she has an eye condition and can't see out of one eye. I hope the other is still working. I had mentioned I had taken the test one line and she wanted info on that. She's a good friend of Julie's and said J. is still on an extended tour of Europe.

I was so pleased to receive a warm response to my welcome note to my new tenants. Her  name is Laura, but she uses "Lori"; she and her mother will move in on May 1. Emailed my former neighbors about Lori and Mom coming in on May 1 and got a nice note back from Susan G. 

I called SCAN Transportation to pick me up for my1:00 HEAR+USA appointment today. I told them I'd take the bus home, which I will after stopping at TARGET. They'll also take me tomorrow to my 2:00 appointment with Primary Medical so I can get a referral for the dermatologist. Damn, is there no end to this medical stuff?

Happily, though, I was able to get my phone on the right track, so I found the pic of the flowers I got on Easter:

Because we had so much else to carry, I didn't take the vase, but when we got to my place, I found I didn't have a vase big enough, so I separated them into two:

Now, it seems, I have some kind of eye infection on the right eye. Miramar is right next to the hearing aid place, so I think I'll stop there and ask for a recommendation for drops. 

Sunday

Didn't get to bed until after 10:00 yesterday; got up just now at 6:00.  I had a wonderful time at Ellen's yesterday, but I'll make this just a quick once-over because I have a lot of business-type things to do and it's already almost 10:00 on the left coast. 

Walked into El's and was greeted with a lovely bouquet of flowers, but I'm having a problem with my phone, so can't seem to bring up the picture. However, here is the basket from the Easter bunny, who dyed them and left messages on them:

(Ignore the one at the top that says, "Rotten egg/do not eat"!)

Here's one to me from my grand-kitties:

Later, here I am finishing off lunch with an Easter brew:

Since it rained off and on all day, we didn't go out, but instead, spent the afternoon playing Bonkers (I lost miserably, but only because the other two cheated) and gin rummy (was ahead at the beginning, but lost only because Ellen doctored the cards). I haven't laughed so hard in years. 

Later, El and I enjoyed, respectively, a Margarita and a daquiri, from the frozen cocktails I had bought at Von's months ago. They were okay, but pretty tame. After that, Easter dinner was served: a luscious ham; broccoli and cauliflower; wonderful scalloped potatoes, which I haven't had for years;  and probably the best Irish soda bread I've ever eaten. 

I didn't leave until after close to eight and didn't get home until almost nine, as there was an accident on Route 33 and we had to detour. Watched TV for a bit, then just fell into bed and slept soundly.

All this is just the bare bones of the wonderful, fun-filled Easter we had and one that I'll cherish, as I do all the days I spend with my family.