SUNDAY, DIANE, JIM, AND A CERTAIN DEVICE

Had a terrible time sleeping; woke at 2:30 for the usual, then couldn't get back for several hours. Finally did, got up, and jumped in the shower to start my day. I was pleased to complete the entire Sunday crossword--not one fill-in missing. 

I left for the Hill Street Cafe in time to meet Diane for my birthday lunch at noon. Because I don't eat red meat at home, I had a hamburger and a good Pacifico IPA. (Virtuous me, I ordered only a 9 ounce, not a 20.) We sat on the patio and had a great time, as ever, talking and laughing for quite a while.  We then left to spend another 45 or so at our place outside the library. 

I gave Diane a little Christmas gift--body cream and and some subtle incense device, which she particularly liked, as she'll use it on during her twice daily meditation. When it started to get a little chilly, we hugged goodbye and I walked home, so got a good three miles in, there and back.

I called VCH and talked to Jim's nurse. He's still in the ICU, but I was pleased to hear he's improved and may be released today, back to Victoria Care Center. I asked if I could speak to him and the very pleasant and courteous nurse switched me over. Talked to Jim for a few minutes--he sounded fairly good--and he asked if I'd send him my phone number--to his P.O. box. Of course, he's called me many times over the years, but he has only a landline and presumably, no address book or any way to get it. Anyway, I'll do that today and will visit him as soon as feasible. 

Note: This lovely gift was at my door yesterday: 

Yeah, I'm sure that forty or so year-old model on the box needs a cane.

Okay, that's from the kid in Japan, but when I sent the pics to all four of the conspirators via Messenger, Mike wrote back that he had sent one, too! UPS said they had tried to deliver it at 4:30 yesterday, but were unable. Well, why not? I was home, so will just wait for the damn thing.  I hope I can return one of them.