THURSDAY

 Ye gads and little fishes--I worked my tail off yesterday! Before breakfast, I put in a large color wash, ate, then did a white wash. I followed that by retrieving my chopped onions, sweet peppers, and ground turkey from the freezer and preparing stir-fry--four portions, which should last me a while. Then I walked to CVS to try to get the vision eyedrops I hadn't on Wednesday. They didn't have them, so I may have to go to a different CVS or maybe send away. From there, I stopped at Von's for mandarins and the 15-calorie popsicles I like. Made lunch and took it and my book (I'm re-reading Sue Klebold's A Mother's Reckoning: Living in the Aftermath of Tragedy) to the middle and enjoyed being there so much. Happily, the fierce wind had settled down and it was sunny and reasonably warm. 

Home, I tackled getting the patio back in shape. I had moved everything from there out front onto Suzanne's and my entrance. Took some things to the trash place, washed almost everything else, and rearranged a lot. It took me until 4:00 to do everything, but it looks pretty good now. Here it was on Wednesday before they started: 

                                      

Although the info from management said to clear everything from patios because things might get wet, I didn't see even a drop. However, I'm just as glad I did because now it looks a lot neater.

Ellen called to see if I were available today. For her? Always. She's taking Cessy to get her teeth done. "Braces?" I asked. No, just a cleaning--well, yeah, Cessy's a cat. She'll drop Cessy off at the cat doctor, then come pick me up at 9:30 and we'll go to the harbor for lunch and then a good walk along the waterfront. 

I outdid myself with the laundry detail: put in a third load after dinner. That included my big, fluffy bathrobe and a few other heavier items and by the time I was out of the shower, they were finished.    

WEDNESDAY

 I got up too early--5:30--and while I was having breakfast and getting dressed, I kept thinking I really didn't want to go to the BCNN meeting; I felt a little sleepy and really wasn't interested in hearing what the sheriff of Ventura County at to say. However, Julie was to pick me up at 9:00 and I didn't want to beg off, so I went...

...and I was glad I did. It was actually pretty interesting and Sheriff Fryhoff was a darn good talker--not to mention a good lookin' guy. He's about six three and has a real presence:  

After the meeting, a group of us went to Topper's for lunch. I hadn't realized there was one in Oxnard and this was close to the yacht club, where we meet. I had a small--but very yummy--pizza and a good hazy IPA, natch. Regina met us there--I'm not sure why she skipped the meeting--and she, Julie, and I had a great time. I was invited to go to lunch on Monday to celebrate Regina's birthday and was pleased to accept. I'll skip Soaring Spirits, but that's okay.

Home about 2:00 and I braved the wind, which is still blustering. to go to CVS to take advantage of my OTC benefit from SCAN, my insurance. I needed iron, D3 and B12, plus teeth stuff and a few other items. I couldn't find the iron and forgot to get the vision vitamins, but I'll walk over there again today.

My niece-in-law, Robyn (wife of Betty's son, Steve), who's a costumer in Hollywood, had put on Facebook a picture and mention of her button collection (formerly my Aunt Maggie's) and coincidentally, Suzanne asked me if I wanted a bag of buttons. I Messaged Robyn and yes, she'd be happy to add to her store, so I'll send them to her today. 

TUESDAY

Suzanne and I got to WinCo about 10:00 and I proceeded to stock up on lots of good things. For me, that included oatmeal, frozen blueberries, and a plethora of fresh veggies. Home, I spent an hour or so on the following: washing and trimming the Brussels sprouts; washing and chopping the broccoli; and washing and halving the mushrooms. I also washed and quartered the tomatoes, added chopped onions (which I had in the freezer), garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and seasoning, and popped it in the oven, along with the mushrooms. Guess I have a bonanza of veggies.

My chores were interrupted by a phone call from, of all people, Jimmy Downes, Betty's old boyfriend. Clearly, he's rapidly sinking into the depths of dementia. He told me several times that he had tried to call me before and I didn't answer, so "I thought you had croaked." He then asked where I was--"in Jersey, right?" I told him no, that I was in Ventura. He then asked where I was several other times. He then repeated--at least ten times during our conversation (if you can call it that)--that he thought I had kicked off, bought the farm, bit the dust, was pushing up daisies--well, you get the picture. Actually, I found him more appealing in this sad persona than I ever did his real self.  I told him I'd keep in touch and I will.

Incrediby, I have yet another laptop problem: I'm trying to type up the T.O.P.S. agenda and still, the heavy line across keeps coming up. I know it's because of something I hit accidently, but have no clue how to fix it. Guess I'll have to take it across to Asurion.

About 4:30, I thought I'd go to CVS to buy a variety of OTC items, since I get $150 every quarter via my supplemental insurance. I started out and didn't even get to the middle of the complex before I turned back; although it was sunny and fairly warm, the wind was so strong I thought it would be foolhardy to brave it. Had a vegan dinner: plant-based sausage, Brussel sprouts, and roasted mushrooms and carrots--it was yum.

Julie's picking me up at 9:00 for the BCNN meeting. I'm somewhat bored with the group, but lunch will follow after at Topper's, a restaurant I like a lot, so I'm going. 

💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚

I came across this picture  of Mom, Betty, Sister Peturna, and me, circa 1941 and posted it on Facebook: 

I think I actually remember that occasion--clearly. Betty and I were not enamored of the grown-ups' conversation. 

MONDAY

I'm beginning to think the electronic world has it in for me. I spent a nightmarish hour on the phone with Cricket, my phone carrier, and Bank of America, to straighten out my automatic payment problem.  I and won't go into the details, but I hope--hope, hope, HOPE!--it's settled. And then there was this:

Leader Lennie asked me to come up with different "Thought for the Day" and "Quotes" on our agenda. No prob at all, but I tried re-typing and I keep getting heavy underlining that goes on automatically. I must have pressed something to make it happen, but I don't know how to change it. 

I did, at least, get a few things done that had been hanging fire.* That includes cleaning out at least one of the undersink cabinets in the bathroom; I have one more go, plus the medicine cabinet.  I also washed, trimmed, and chopped the sweet peppers I had bought the other day. Stowed them in the freezer and, since I already have the onions and ground turkey, I now have the basics for stir-fry.

Went over to Von's for the wrinkled mandarins I like so much. I actually prefer them to Sumo oranges, as they're smaller and, I think, sweeter. I got only three, but will pick up more citrus when I go to WinCo with Suzanne today.

Note: It takes a shade under seven minutes for my coffee to brew once I turned it on. Why did I bother to time it? Because I take a certain medication once a week and can't eat or drink anything for a half-hour after. I need--need, need, NEED!--my coffee as soon as I brush my teeth, so now I can set my phone for 23 minutes, instead of 30, and I'll know when to start the coffee. Sound idiotic? Yeah, it does, even to me.

Note 2: I transferred $1000 from checking to savings--no sense in having it sit there. Maybe I should add it to Vanguard--will ask my financial advisor (son Mike).

*I wondered where that expression came from and here's the answer: 

hang fire

 delay or be delayed in taking action or progressing.

In the late 18th century, hang fire was used to refer to the action of a firearm that was slow in communicating the fire through the vent to the charge and so did not go off immediately.

See also: fire, hang

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

SUNDAY

Ellen got here at noon and after sitting to chat for a bit, we got my donations into her car and my throw-aways to the trash area. We decided on Wood Ranch for lunch and it was good. El got a big salad and I a veggie burger, plus of course, a local IPA. After, we drove to Goodwill to drop off the donations, then went next door to Grocery Outlet. They have some of the best frozen fish around, plus a good array of fresh and frozen veggies, of which I got quite a few. El also picked me up some new batteries, as I had been bemoaning the problem with the T.V. remote. 

While at the supermarket, I ran into Anthony Contreras, a great guy with whom I've been on stage with Fractured Actors several times. We greeted each other with hugs and Anthony told me he'll be appearing at the Santa Paula Theatre in "The Cottage"; there he is on the lower left: 

And there's my buddy, Alphonse, just under him! It's running for a month and I'm looking forward to it.

Suzanne called and asked if I wanted to go to WinCo on Tuesday after her doctor's appointment. Sure thing, I can always stock up, so I accepted her nice offer. 

Rain predicted for today. That means I'll have to stay in and maybe get some things done I should have been doing before--darn! 😜

SATURDAY

Nothing very exciting going on aside from Ellen's house.  I walked to the P.O. to send some annual reports to my ex-DIL, but when I found postage would be $32.00, I took them home and Messaged Paula and she said not to send. Vacumned the carpet, dusted, and otherwise straightened up a little. Made lunch and took it to the middle to eat in the sunshine. Did a bleach wash. Chopped four large onion and stowed them in the freezer to make a stir-fry later. 

As for Ellen's house--I was blown away by the pictures, some of which I'm adding below. (I texted her that I want the photographer to take MY pic.) Open house is today and she'll come over while the realtor shows it. Hope it sells for full price.

I left out the two bathrooms and a few other pics, but I think the place looks great. 

FRIDAY

 T.O.P.S. was interesting, but not because of my weight. I gained 1.2 at home and 1.1, so weighed 127 and 127.7, respectively, so I'm right in the middle of my comfort zone, which is perfectly fine by me. The interesting--in an unsettling way--part was that Maria burst into the room about ten minutes after we started. Maria had been coming until about a year ago, but had stopped. She had cared for her brother at home and it was a difficult job, as he had something she mentioned that was related to schzophrenia, plus other mental problems. Because our meetings have evolved into something similar to group therapy, Maria clearly felt it was perfectly okay to go into a long harangue about her brother and her own mental health. It seems the brother is now in a facility, but they're going to make him leave because of his behavior and Maria is trying to work on her own self-esteem, which is absymal--and so on and on. I asked if she had tried to get help from the Agency on Aging, the Public Guardian, or other county commission and she responded with saying she had to fill out a long questionnaire--or something. Anyway, on the way home, Chyerl and I agreed that she was an adequate sub for Sharon and her endless unrelated talk.

Had a quick breakfast, then changed to meet Noreen at Danny's Deli. We both had the eggplant marinare, which I thought was what I had ordered when I was there last, but it wasn't. It was good, though, and of course, so was the IPA. Noreen, one of the many Trump-haters I know, went into great detail about how evil he is. What's interesting is that she often quotes the Bible to support her belief that he's practically the devil incarnate. Yet aren't many of his supporters fundamentalists who seem to believe he's almost at the right hand of God? Odd.

I bused home after and didn't get in until almost 4:00. I thought I'd watch T.V. for a change, but something's wrong with the remote and even though, I replaced the batteries, it still doesn't work. Using the controls on the set itself, I can get only some kind of police show. Guess I'll have to call somebody to come fix it. This electronic world is driving me crazy! 

And here's another annoyance: Somehow, my SpellCheck stopped working and I don't know how to get it on again.                                       

THURSDAY

Damn, what a day--and not in a good way. After breakfast, as I had planned, I washed the rugs and dusted and mopped the hard floors. Wrote up my blog, but later when I tried to get in to my various sites, I found my icons gone. I had no idea how I had managed to delete them, but of course, had no idea how to get them back, either. Packed up the laptop, keyboard, and mouse, and went over to Asurion. Bryce looked at it and saw I had accidentally deleted them; however, he easily got them back. He advised me to simply click quickly to open Chrome; the only problem is, I don't remember whether he said to right or left click. Got home and found I had left my mouse there, so had to walk back. Thought I'd stop on Von's, which is right next door, but when I got there, I found I didn't have my list. Remembered a few things, though, and got them.

If the above was all I had to deal with, I'd be walking on air, but it was the least of my problems. The big one was that there had to be change to my rental insurance surrounding the damage waiver fee, newly instituted by the new owners. The office had sent out two-page instructions and after studying them, I had no idea how to go about it. There's no sense in cataloging the ins and outs of it, but it had to do with "verifying" the change in ownership or something. I got in touch with the insuarance company and they were no help, so after agonizing over all this, I again asked Libby if I could stop in; I did and both she and Kim helped and I think--I fervently HOPE--that all is resolved. I'm going to send them a little gift of thanks. 

Sharon called to say she wouldn't be at T.O.P.S. today. That isn't because of her worrysome physical condition, but for "financial problems," as she put it. She then proceeded to spend fiftenn minutes giving me chapter and verse about AT & T and the world at large. She also thanked me for the birthday card I had sent her--although her birthday is actually April 27, not March 27. At least, we could laugh about that. 

On a lighter note, they've started power washing the buildings, although they looked fine to me before. Here's the one across from my kitchen window:

                                   

WEDNESDAY

Boy, when I get in a domestic mood, I go like a house afire! For the slow cooker, I 1.) trimmed, seeded, and chopped two big red peppers; 2.) husked and chopped two very large onions; 3.) washed and picked over two cups of dried lentils' 4.) and scrubbed and cut up several big carrots. Put all in the slow cooker and added vegetable "juice" (the water from simmering fresh veggies, which I save--it's where the nutients are strongest) and Italian seasoning, then let 'er go. It filled my larger cooker to the brim, so I had plenty to store in the freezer. 

I had put in a color wash before I started and by the time I fnished with my lentil stew, the clothes were ready to go in the drier. Did that, then prepared the remaining carrots: scrubbed, cut them up, added olive oil and Italian seasoning, then roasted them in the oven on parchment paper.

Called the renters insurance person and asked her to call Libby in the office here, but she thought I could just send a copy of my policy and blah, blah, blah. Before I went completely mad, I called the office and left a message for Libby to call me so I can get a handle on it.

Had lunch, then took a short nap, which is getting to be a habit. That's okay, a long as I don't sleep any longer than a half hour or so, which I didn't. Went to get the mail and ran into Suzanne, who was going to one of her ministries, "Many Meals," and we chatted.

My pal (sigh), Lorraine, called to rattle on about this and that. Actually, I don't mind hearing from her, I just always marvel about her--well, her inability to quit concentrating on the unimportant and mundane, maybe. I called Noreen to see if she was free for lunch today, but no, it's her pinocle day, so we'll meet at Danny's Deli tomorrow. 

Aside from the mail and the trash place, I didn't go anywhere. I really didn't want to, as it was chilly (high of 63) and overcast. And on the topic of weather, I came across this photo of my backyard in Jersey, talken exactly (as of yesterday) ten years ago. Pretty, isn't it, and don't I miss it? No, thanks very much, I've had enough of the white stuff to last a lifetime: 

TUESDAY

Busy day, but I got a lot done. I spent most of the morning sweeping and otherwise cleaning up the patio--that was a lot easier without the items I had removed the other day. I was pleased to get a text from Leslie R., my friend from down the street in Sunrise Bay. I responded right away and we'll talk soon.

Called the Public Guardian to talk about Jim's situation. The person there suggested I call Adult Protective Services, but I have to think that over. Texted Jim's friend, Roy, to compliment him on sending the two books on Maria Callas to Jim.  

Made my lunch and had every intention of busing to the mall and eating there, then picking up a few things at Target. However, after I packed my cart and started off, I was dismayed to realize it was a lot cooler than it had been--only in the low sixties, cloudy,  and little too breezy to be comfortable. Reluctantly, I looped around to Von's for veggies, lentils, and sweet peppers, as I want to make lentil stew in the slow cooker. Then I went home and ate there. 

Took a short nap, but was awakened by Lorraine calling. As usual, she had all kinds of complaints about the roofers and everybody else who crossed her path in the last few days. I listened, commisserated, and immediately forgot about it after we hung up. At that point, refreshed, I decided to go back to Von's, as I was out of onions and needed  them for the stew. Did so and it was then too late to start the slow cooker, so I'll make it today. 

Stopped at the office to drop off a copy of my renters insurance, but was told by Libby the company needed to "verify" it; she said they can just call her. 

I ordered from Werther's the sugar-free chewy candy I like, so should get them shortly. Got a text from Ellen with the exciting news that her realtor had scheduled her first open house on Sunday! She asked if I was free then, as presumably, the owner shouldn't stay around. I responded immediatly that I'm always free for her and she'll come over. We'll go shopping or something and out to lunch--yay!

I forgot to put this on Tuesday's post. In the S.P.A.R.C. shop in town, I saw a woman with her pet parrot on her cart. Hey, I prefer to see birds in stores, rather than dogs:

His owner said his name is Gabby, although he wasn't gabbing at the moment.

MONDAY

Went over to the office in the moirning after texting to try to figure out the new "Loft" site where residents can pay their rent. There's a new assistant community director who, presumably works under Kim, and I dealt with her. Initially, I had called and become frustrated and angry; when I went over there, though, she was so pleasant and accommodating, she charmed me. More important, just like Kim, she's intelligent and knowledgeable, and I liked her a lot; her name is Libby and I'm sure I'll see her again. Anyway, that particular problem seems to be solved; now I have to look into my renter's insurance to see if I have to do anything else.

Glad to leave business matters behind, I did some food prep: juiced and zested two lemons and two limes, stowing some in the freezer and some in the fridge to put on my seafood dishes. I then peeled and separated a sumo orange to have it ready for breakfast (must get more of those). Finally, I washed and sliced a pound of strawberries and put them in the freezer. I still have some in the fridge that I'll put on my oatmeal this morning.

I called Stella and we chatted. It's still not clear to me what her physical problems are, but she seems to go to the doctor a lot. We'll meet up some time in the coming weeks for lunch. 

Packed lunch and bused to town, stopping in S.P.A.R.C. to buy a new purse and chat for a bit with the clerk there. Her name is Anna and she's very accomadating; also got some Easter gifts for the little girls in Rancocas. Ate across from the mission, as usual. It was very quiet in town, as it always is on weekdays; also, schools are on spring break, so there were few kids on the bus. 

I'm considering going to WinCo today and possibly to the Target nearby. However, first I have to attend to the list of 👉Things To Do👈 I've complied. Wish I had a secretary...

SUNDAY

 The crossword was pretty absorbing and I got most of it. Made my lunch and took off to meet Diane for our lib lunch. Crossing over the footbridge, I was reminded of one of the reasons I like it here so much. This is directly across from my apartment complex; the street leads to the footbridge I cross to get to our lib lunch: 

It's Campbell farm/rance, which grows lemons and avocados.

I was early and stopped into the library first; took out three nonfiction books. Met Diane and we had a good time, as ever. The weather had turned beautifully sunny and way up to the lower seventies. Sitting outside, we both took off our coats and settled in to one of our far-ranging talks. This session was a long one--walked home and saw it was almost 4:00. 

Had dinner early--about 5:30, then just fooled arund with this and that until time for my one hour of T.V., then bed. Must turn my attention to some paper and housework today--ugh! 

SATURDAY

Overall, a good day. Ellen came about 1:00 and we chatted for a bit, then took off for Oxnard. We went to The Lazy Dog for lunch, a place I like aside from--well, the dogs people bring. They can be only on the patio, of course, I'm happy to say. Anyway, we both had cheeseburgers, El iced tea, and her mama had--what else, an IPA. It was recommended by the cute server Adam, and was very good. The name: Giggle Juice. 

From there, El took me over to see Jim. I didn't want to stay long and she didn't want to go in, so I was  just there for ten minutes or so, which was plenty of time for me. He seemed pretty good--for Jim--and I was pleased to see two books on Maria Callas on Jim's table. His friend and former student, Roy, had given them to him--what a nice gesture.

From there, we went to the huge "Super Wal-Mart" to get an item the one in Ventura didn't seem to carrry. I also got a six-pack--always like to have some stored in the fridge. Ellen then helped me with a huge task: As I had mentioned before, management sent out a notice that buildings one through nine  would be power-washed, starting on Tuesday and all possessions--furniture, plants, grills, decorations, and everything else, would have to be remoed from patios. Okay, but I sure as hell wasn't putting them inside. I had already put a few things on the walk leading to my front entrance and Ellen did most of the rest of it. She then swept the patio and now it's cleared and cleaned; let's hope I'm not asked to move the stuff.

El left about 5:30 and I set up some of my small succulents on the coffe table in the living room . It looks pretty good, but I'm not sure if I'll keep them there or not.   

FRIDAY

I was the biggest loser yesterday: lost 2.8 both at home and at T.O.P.S., for weights of 125.8 and 126.6, respectively. It was, as usual, what I call a meandering meeting--we read something about protein, but it was mostly talky-talk-talk. I was sorry to hear Bev is going to be gone for some time, maybe for good. Her husband is showing increasingly serious signs of demenitia and she's going back to her hometown in Minnesota for some reason; their son will stay with him.

I had put in a white wash and dry before I left, so folded and put them away when I got home, then did a color one. Had breakfast, then dealt with my dreaded tasks: Calling Vanguard with Michelle's question and contacting Primary Medical, plus the dermatology. It's too long and boring to go into all of it, but I got the Vanguard question settled and found out I have a derm appointment in May, so I'll just wait for that.

A text came from management that the new owners are now going to have the buildings power-washed and all items need to be taken from the patios. Well, good luck with that; I'm certainly not putting them inside, but will have to figure something out. 

Income tax finished, I'm thrilled to say. I'm getting a bit  more back than last year from both the feds and California (Jersey ain't giving me nothin') No big deal, but it's always nice. 

💕Ellen's coming today and we're going to drop some things off at GW, then lunch out--yay! 💞

THURSDAY

 As noted, I spent about an hour at Asurion (good thing it's just across the way)/ Having forgotten my password book the first time, I had to retrace my steps, but oh, well, things seem to be working. I gave Bryce a twenty-dollar tip, I was so grateful for his help. I think--and fervently hope--that all is well with this blog now.

Aside from that, I went over to Von's for various and sundry, then made my lunch and ate in the middle.  It was so enjoyable: quiet, except for the roofers and they were a distance away, with lovely blue skies, and temp hovering around seventy. I didn't get to it until 3:00 pm, but no prob.

Having been notified by SCE (Southern California Electric) that electricity would be off from 9:00 pm last night to early this morning (for repairs, I'm assuming), I filled my three aluminum bowls with water and put them in the freezer. They froze and kept the frozen foods cold enough to be able to eat later.  I just checked and yes, they're fine. 

As I put on the Wednesday post that seems to have disappeared forever, I received these two cards. The first is from, of course, the Tokyo Trio, with a nice little joke on Japanese pronunciation:

The second is a little peculiar, considering it was mailed on March seventeenth, three months after Christmas. This is from Ken and Sheri, who are on the board of Dudley House and the main movers and shakers behind it. Sheri, however, has been having some problems lately, I'm sorry to say. 

TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY

Okay, Tuesday was a wash when I didn't post at all. 

On Wednesday, I went to see Michelle, my tax accountant and brought the crapola to do my taxes. They're not finished because I have to get in touch with Vanguard to ask them something. After, I went to Ralph's for tuna packets (on sale), then ate my lunch by the fountain and the seagulls. I put my account of Wednesday under the old messy "hereincal" thing, but I'm putting that behind me. Happily, Ellen called--the photographer was there to take pics of her house, which will be listed shortly--and we made a date for Wednesday.

Just got back from Asurion, where Bryce brought this back to life, but I was there almost an hour. Let's fervently hope I'm able to just continue on my routine--if this shows up, I guess I can. 

MONDAY

This is partly a tale of woe, at least the first part of the day. To begin with, I'm having problems with this laptop, or the Internet, or both. When I try to pull up sites, it takes a very long time for them to appear; I just get the grinding signal for minutes at a time. Aside from that, I spent the whole morning and most of the afternoon on finishing pulling up and recording my income tax information; I'll call Michelle, my tax account, today, to set up a time to see her and deliver them. 

Finally finished, I got ready to go to Soaring Spirits dinner. There are two different ways I can get to the Stone Fire Grille: either walk or bus to Telephone Road, then take the 11 or take any bus to the transit center and take the 11 from there. I decided on the latter and boy, I almost turned back. It's about a quarter mile to the bus top and wind was strong. Got there though and followed through to the restaurant.

There were seven of us and we had, as ever, a good time--lots of laughs and lots of serious talk, as well as just the cozy feeling of long-time friends enjoying each other's company.  Vera left a little early, so Susan took me home.

SUNDAY

The Sunday crossword was annoyingly obscure, so I got only about three quarters of it and didn't solve the riddle. After that, I cleaned up this and that, made my lunch, and took off for Wal-Mart. I should have known I wouldn't didn't find everything, but I did get Stevia, kitchen bags, and a few other essentials. Ate at the park across Victoria Avenue and enjoyed the birds at the fountain.

Bused home and found this from Ancestry.com:

This is the grave of my great-grandparents: Thomas Byrne, born 12/2/1821, died 1/8/1872 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Mary Byrne, died 1/4/1905, both born in Dunlavin, County Wicklow, Ireland and died in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

I just lazed around after I got home. Found a documentary on T.V. about 9/11 called "Falling Man." The producers are trying to find the identity of the man pictured falling (presumably under his own power) from the World Trade Center. Watched most of it, then went to bed after an anything but enthralling day.

Didn't get up just now until almost 7:00 and half-dressed so I could go out and leave St. Pat's Day cards at Suzanne's and Vickie's doors. Soaring Spirits and Stone Fire Grille for dinner tonight. 

SATURDAY

Stripped the bed, washed the linens and re-made before breakfast. My cousin, Sally, called shortly after; she had looked at my "page" on Facebook (she has one, but hasn't gone on it for years) and had seen a comment by Tom Figenshu about my wedding dress, which his grandmother, my Aunt Gertrude made. Sal has a very excited way of talking and oddly, she laughs after most of her comments or questions. Anyway, she was astounded that our cousin, Tom, was still living, as I attended her ninetieth birthday in January, as reported here, and he was born ten or twelve years before she was. I informed her that, no, this is Tom's son, who's probably in his late sixties now. (That would make him our first cousin once removed.) Anyway, it was good to hear from her and we had a warm talk. She told me about the mass for her son, David, held a few weeks ago. I didn't go to it, but plan to visit Sally sometime soon. 

I made my lunch and bused to town after. Because it was such a beautiful day--sunny, blue skies, in the sixties with no wind--town was packed with people and I found it so festive. There were street musicians playing Irish tunes, and that was lovely to hear. I stopped at a shop and was amused to see a pumpkin person; asked if I could take her picture and here it is:

Hmm...could she have gotten Halloween mixed up with St. Paddy's day?

I ate at my favored place across from the mission and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Stopped at the Von's nearby for a six-pack of IPAs, then bused home. 

I was disconcerted to get what I guess is an "activity report" on my phone, which informed me that my activity level for the past period (month?) was down by 23 percent or something. Hey, I didn't even realize my phone was tracking me. I think it reflects the fact that the unusual rain kept me inside, but it was a wake-up call and I'll do better. 

FRIDAY

Now I'm getting a little concerned about the weight. Yesterday I was up 1.4 at home to 128.6 and up .07 to 129.4 at T.O.P.S., so I'm now teetering on the brink of the abyss--129.4.  As 130 is in the danger zone, I'd better shape up pretty quick. The problem isn't that I've gone out a lot, it's the opposite. When I don't get out, I tend to get bored and turn to food. And why haven't I been getting out? Because it's been cold, rainy, and in the fifties temperature-wise! In fact the high yesterday was a frigid 51! 

Anyway, the meeting was the usual chat fest. Sharon wore these incredible sneaks that may or may not be for Halloween--or something:

 

Home at 10:00 and I just had a bowl of cereal, as I was going to lunch with Noreen. She picked me up at noon--my cane in one hand and my umbrella in the other, as it was still coming down. We went right across the way to Chili Basil, the Thai place, and had an enjoyable time, as I always do with Noreen. Got home close to 2:00 and I took a short nap. Happily, the forecast for today says sunny with a high of 61 and I don't see rain in the ten-day, either.

Darn, management just sent out an email that the community gates are closing today. They had been kept open during the fires in the hills and while the roofers, then the tree people were here, so for several months. That was more convenient for me, although of course, I have a remote to open the gates. Oh, well, what the hell...                           

THURSDAY

I finally got out yesterday, but didn't go far. I just strolled over to Von's for Sumo oranges, which seem to have replaced grapefruit in my affections. They were on sale and I bought six of the jumbos--juicy, sweet, easy-to-peel, and yummy-yum-yum. Also got four large apples, a nice cabbage, plant milk, and more. Home, I trimmed and sliced the cabbage, found a kind of brown sauce in the freezer (I think Suzanne gave it to me), mixed it with a little water, and poured it on the cabbage. Washed and cored the apples, added Stevia and cinnamon, and popped them in the oven. 

Other than that, I spend an inordinate amount of time still pulling together m income tax information. I'm just about finished, but have to fill out the sheets accountant Michelle gave me, then send or take it to her. 

Ellen called and we had a long talk. She brought me up to date on the repairs to her house and finally, she seem close to being finished--the roof and painting, that is. She also has had some plumbing problems with her guest bathroom and the plumber was there several times. 

Lorrain called and recited her usual list of complaints against this, that, and the other person, including her doctor. I'm beginning to wonder if she actually makes all this up, or what. Anyway, she tends to simply keep talking, right over whatever I try to say in response; no wonder her husband travels so much.

Oh, boy, would I love to go to this:  Maybe I'll see if I can arrange it.

WEDNESDAY

If I ever entertain the notion of staying east in the rainy season, yesterday persuaded me otherwise. Noreen and I had planned to meet for lunch at Lure in town and I was looking forward to it. Unfortunately, I looked at the weather and saw that rain was predicted on and off, starting at 1:00, which was when we had planned to meet. I knew Noreen was going to her T.O.P.S. meeting first, and hoped she wouldn't go directly there. I left three messages at hourly intervals, but didn't hear back from her. Finally, in desperation, I called Lure and asked the hostess to look for an older woman who seemed to be waiting for someone. She did, found Noreen, and gave her the message. When Noreen got home, she immediately called me and she was apologetic! Why? Because she doesn't use a cell phone and has only a landline. Noreen will be ninety in June, so I sure cut her some slack and of course, it was she who was inconvenienced. The fault was all on my side--I should have thought about the weather. Anyway, we'll meet at Lure at noon tomorrow--OKAY, MIMI, STOP RIGHT THERE! I just looked at the weather forecast and found it will rain on Friday most of the afternoon. I therefore called Noreen and we switched to Friday. She'll pick me up and we'll go to the Thai place right across the street from me--yay!

Earlier, I had called Mary Hoffman and we had an hour-long talk. She's doing okay and is another one on the cusp of ninety--she'll turn November 26th, so is a full year and a month older than I am, although we were in the same grade; I'm not sure how that happened. I hadn't talked to Mary for eight or nine months, I guess, and we had a lot to catch up on. 

Other than that, I continued working on pulling together my income tax info to give Michelle. I've done the donation and medical cost parts and will tackle the rental property expenses today. 

TUESDAY

Ellen called in the morning just to chat and we had a good talk. The roofers were back at her place today, even though it was raining a bit. Her house upkeep and repairs should be finished soon and she'll probably be putting her house on the market after they're completed. 

I called Muckie and we enjoyed one of our marathon talk sessions. She's doing okay, except she said her doctor was "concerned" about what she thought was a change in the pancreatic cancer.  However, the radiologist didn't agree; she'll be tested again in three months. Muckie has also had pain because of a sciatica problem in her back. She'll turn ninety this Sunday, so after we hung up, I filled out a birthday card and sent it to her. 

Went over to the office to ask Kim for a copy of the letter we all got about a "damage waiver" the new owners require. I had thought it had been emailed, but when I went on-line to look, I didn't find it. That's because it hadn't been emailed, but had been hand-delivered to everybody's door. I guess that's because there are some residents like my friend acquaintance, Loraine, who don't use the computer. Anyway, Kim gave me another copy and we chatted a bit. She's a smart cookie and I get along with her fine.

Packed my lunch and decided to eat in the middle after the drizzle stopped. However, it turned out to be too chilly and I redirected to one of the more sheltered areas in the complex. Ate, but didn't stay long. 

Well, I finally started on pulling together my income tax info. I'll submit it (in written form) to Michelle, my tax accountant, and she'll do the final papers. Right now, I have plenty more to add, but at least I have some time.

Called Noreen; we had a good talk and made a date for lunch today at Lure Fish House, where we haven't been for some time. Darn, it's suppose to shower again, so I hope I can get there. Otherwise, I'll have to call and cancel. Hmm...my phone tells me it's not supposed to rain until 4:00 pm; maybe I'll get there and back unscathed...

MONDAY

Packed my lunch and, for the first time in a while, I walked to that store from Hell, Wal-Mart, to get shoelaces. Picked up a few more things, then walked across the street to Ralph's for Sumo oranges, tomatoes, and some frozen veggies and ate on the fountain area there. The weather was so good--sunny,  upper sixties and not windy.

Home, I was just at loose ends, so I fooled around on this laptop, then took a nap. I should have been dealing with  my kitchen drawers or any number of other things, but had no desire to do so. I did call Groendyke, my insurance company for my house; talked to Maureen to see if they carry damage waiver insurance and she had never heard of it. I tried to find the email about it from SO-Fi, but couldn't. Emailed the office to try to find the letter they had sent out explaining it. I also need to follow up on their new notice about a

Other than that, I didn't do a whole heck of a lot; think I'll call Noreen and see if she's available for lunch in town today.  

SUNDAY WITH JOSE, PANTHER, AND ELLEN

 What?? Who?? Okay, Jose and Panther were on the 10-16 bus I took to Ellen's. They got off at the transit center, though, because Jose is a greeter at a restaurant nearby. I assume he greets the patio trade, as maybe Panther wouldn't be welcome inside. I don't know why not, as she's a dazzling beauty, who will sit on your shoulder if you please her:

I've met Jose before and he's one of the reasons I like riding the bus. It's fun to meet interesting people who aren't necessarily the kind you're used to. 

Ellen picked me up at the Von's shopping center and we went to her place and had lunch. It was a little early for me, due to daylight saving time, but that was okay. This time, I had told El I bring my own sandwich, which I did; of course, I had some IPAs stashed at her place, so I naturally had one, too.

We then drove around some nearby communities, looking at some of the houses for sale. Ellen has tentative plans to sell her house and buy another for various reasons, but they aren't urgent/

After, we went to a nice garden center in Ojai and El bought eighty bucks worth of tomato, pepper, geranium, and other flowers--beautiful, indeed. Silly me, I asked El to take my picture, since I'm featured on the board 😅:

HA-HA-HA!

Back at her place, I enjoyed chatting with her while she planted all but the two largest plants; she going to wait until the roofers are finished working on her house.  

Her labor completed, we had an hour or so before the Access Van came, so started with our favorite game of--what else? gin rummy. I was way, way ahead when the recording came that the van was coming soon, so we ended it and went out to find it already there. Jesse was the driver, a nice guy whom I've had before, and it was nice to see him. Home at 5:30 and I settled in after a pleasant day with my girl.

SATURDAY

Cheryl picked me up at a few minutes before noon and we off to the "memorial luncheon" for Lora's son. The gathering place was nicely decorated and set with long tables and chairs. At each place was a brochure about Seth and his passing: 

Seth was just shy of his thirty-third birthday. 

There was a screen at the front that displayed changing pictures of Seth over the years. I can just imagine Lora picking them out--Seth as a two-year-old, Seth playing baseball, Seth with friends at the prom, Seth as a grown man, and so on. After a short, non-denominational prayer, several relatives and friends stood to express their memories of Seth. Attendees were then invited to enjoy the buffet lunch, which was simple and good--salad, sandwiches, a few other sides, cookies and cupcakes, with water and soda to drink. 

I introduced myself to Lora's sister and brother-in-law, Teresa and Reuban, whom Suzanne had mentioned to me and we sat across from a couple named Joe and Collette. All of them volunteer for one of the many charities with which Suzanne works. Julie was there and came over to say hello; she introduced me to her friend, Lupe, the one with whom she often travels (Lora is, of course, their travel agent). 

Sharon and Lewis came in late and sat down with us, but didn't take any of the buffet. We chatted with them for a bit, then said goodbye to Lora about 2:15. She and Todd will go back to their new home in Arizona on Tuesday, but will probably be back here in May, so I hope to see her then.  

It was a melancholy affair, but honestly, it seemed to me more touching than a mass or other church service. I've been to so many of those (too many, in fact) and, depending on the occasion--who died, that is--have seldom been as moved as I was yesterday. 

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Paula, my ex-daughter-in-law, is in Japan on a business trip. She's ethnically half Japanese herself and I had forgotten had lived in Japan until she was a teenager (her father was U.S. naval officer). Here she is with a colleague in some town square or other:

I was struck by how attractive she is at 56. I hope she finds someone to care for and who will care for her. 

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FRIDAY

 Down a tad (.02) to 127.2 at home and a tad more at T.O.P.S. (.07) to 128. Meeting was so-so, consisting of each of us reading a paragraph of the current T.O.P.S. magazine. Sharon was wearing a pair of her exotic earrings and I couldn't resist a picture:

After Cheryl dropped me off, I rushed to change, have breakfast, make my lunch, then head out on Hill Street via the overpass to meet Diane. We mostly had a good talk, and I refrained from too much skepticism when she started on near-death experiences--so many people have had them, she insists. (It reminds of what H.L. Mencken wrote about another experience: something like "Most people wouldn't fall in love if they hadn't heard about it.") However, we had an enjoyable time and were there--our usual--for close to three hours.

After, I walked to Victoria Avenue, then bused to the post office. Mailed Violet's litttle shamrock neckless ($19.82--I must be nuts) and Vivian's music box, stopped at Von's for shrimp tempura, then walked home. Had a little snack of rice cakes and frozen banana, then sliced up the pound of strawberries I had bought, separated them into two containers, and stowed them in the freezer. 

Mike face-timed me last night and we had a talk. He and Vivian may possibly be able to join us for Thanksgiving--not sure. He said Violet is enjoying the pretzels and he sent a video, but I couldn't get it to copy, except as a still. Here she is, the little darling, and she's saying "Thank you, Nana.":

But the hair! It would drive me crazy!

THURSDAY

Suzanne called to say she had been at some affair (church service?) with Lora's brother-in-law, Reuban, and he told her of Seth's death. She didn't realize I had already known, but I thanked her for the call. Tomorrow, I'll be going to the memorial luncheon.

I texted Diane and we'll meet today at noon for a Lib Lunch. I hope the wind dies down; I had intended to walk to Wal-Mart yesterday, primarily for shoelaces, but it was so chilly (fifties) and windy, I decided against it. Maybe I'll go after lunch today.

Called Primary Medical to get a referral for tahe dermatologist; I have more lesions (rough spots) on my nose that I think are Basel cells. Damn, I hope I don't have to go in to see P.A. Natalie first, which is what I had to do last year with my old insurance. 

Went to Von's for tunas, IPAs, and a few other things, including some cute St. Patrick's cards for the kiddies. For the second time, I accentually hit the "cash back" button and got sixty bucks. I keep some cash at home, but I don't want to have a large amount. Guess I'll just pay cash for purchases until it runs out.

I called Dr. Fixx'es office to ask about the spinach and grapefruit thing. Assistant said she'd get back to me. 

I then spent a fair amount of time on wrapping a music box for granddaughter Vivian. I found it at a thrift store; it has a little Irish colleen on it who dances to an Irish tune. Yes, she's 20 and in college, but as I wrote on her card, I don't want her to forget her Irish heritage. Paula's mother was Japanese, so she's half and the girls are a quarter; the rest is mostly Irish. I also got a light-up shamrock necklace for Violet and wrapped that. I actually mailed the card for grandson, Mr. K., as it takes so long to get there. Filled out one for my Jersey boys; now I need two more for my big girls. 

Had some yummy chicken liver for dinner, along with spinach and mixed veggies. 

WEDNESDAY

Julie picked me up at 9;00, then we stopped for Regina and off we went to the BCNN  meeting. It was raining (horrors!) and we agreed we didn't feel like going to lunch after. 

The program was actually pretty good. I'm no animal lover and the theme was "Saving The Endangered Channel Island Fox" which didn't thrill me, but it turned out to be very interesting. One of the scientists presented a slide presentation and talk about this particular breed of fox, which lives only on the Channel Islands off the coast here. Here, she's holding up some fox furs (my mother had a fox fur coat!):

Below, her assistants are holding a cutout that illustrates the size of a golden eagle, which prey on the foxes. I never dreamed eagles could be that huge:

Anyway, it was a good program. I'll see both Julie and Regina on Saturday, when we go to the memorial luncheon for Lora's son.

Home, I had lunch, then put in a bleach wash. I had intended to continue clearing out and cleaning up my kitchen drawers, but did I? Well, uh, I was going to, but it wasn't my fault I just didn't get around...I was so busy with ah...I just couldn't... No, I didn't, damn it, and I'm not apologizing to myself, either, so there! 

What I did do, on my ever-expanding chore list, was call Dr. Fixx (I'd go to her just for the name), my endocrinologist. Why? Because I had read in, of all places, "Hints From Heloise," that eating certain foods were not good for osteoporosis because they contain oxalates, which make it hard for calcium to be absorbed. There were several foods listed, including grapefruit, oranges, and spinach.  Oh, great, I eat either a half-grapefruit or a Sumo orange every single day, and spinach probably several times a week. I had never been told this, by the way. Gave the message to her assistant and she said she or Dr. Fixx will get back to m. 

Aside from that, I still have to make several calls on the list, including to the public guardian, re Jim's situation and Dr. Sui, my dermatologist--I know I have more spots on my nose.  

TUESDAY

 Called HEARX to see if I could get my hearing aids done (wax removal) without waiting a month. Happily, Amanda said I could come in at 11:15, so I got my coat and cart and went off to the bus stop. Got there a little late, but that was okay and they were cleaned while I waited. 

From there, I walked to the Market for tissues and a few other items, then to the transit center to get the bus home. By that time, it was almost 2:00 and I made and packed my lunch, then walked over to CVS to pick up my medication. After that, I had lunch at my preferred place when I'm home, the middle of our complex, neat the pool. However, it was cooler than I like and a little too breezy, so I ate fast and went home.

When I did, I called cousin, Sally's son, Duane, whom I had visited in Encinitas in January. I had spoken to Sally and just wanted to see how he and Ani were doing after his brother's death. They're fine and they enjoyed the "name verse" and pickleball Christmas ornament I sent as a thank-you. We talked for a half hour or so, which was so enjoyable.

Got a communication from management about personal liability insurance and some other hogwash, such as a "damage waiver program," whatever the hell that means. Guess I'll have to call  my insurance agent in Jersey to get it explained. 

BCNN meeting today and Julie will pick me up at 9:00, then Regina. I can't remember what the program will be and we'll probably go to lunch after.

MONDAY

Got the 6 bus to Telephone Road and the 11 from there, but darn it, I somehow missed my stop, so got off about a half mile after I should have and had to walk back. Actually, I shouldn't whine about it, as the exercise was good for me. 

Enjoyed the time with my Soaring Spirits gang at Stone Fire Grille; Vera and Susan were there, of course, as well as Renee, Grendel, and ??. (The latter comes to both lunch and dinner, but I can never remember her name, which also starts with a "G" and is also unusual.) Anyway, we had a good time and some good talk, which ranged over abortion, religion, taking one's own life, and turtles. Yes, it's serious stuff and some had differing opinions, but none of us tout our own ideas as superior to others and we all listen respectfully.

Left a little after 2:00 and bused to the transit center, then home. I didn't feel like doing anything productive, so I actually turned on the television. I watched a 60 Minutes show from Australia about a woman who pretended to have a malignant brain tumor that was being cured by certain foods. She had thousands of Instagram followers and made money by selling a cookbook. Must watch the rest later.

After that, I cleaned out one of the kitchen drawers that hold my knives, potato mashers, peelers, scoops, and so on; I'll tackle the others today (maybe! 😁). I then cooked up the big kabocha squash I bought at Ralph's and had most of it for dinner--oh, so good.

Puzzles Note:  Yesterday, I got Wordle in TWO tries (it was "spear"). Today, I got the word, but it took me all the way to six. Could my brain be spongier on Tuesdays or what?

SUNDAY

Did the Sunday stuff--crossword was somewhat obscure, but I got most--then David Wappler called and we settled into a long talk. David is the ornithologist who lives in a building across the way and he's very much concerned with the tree-trimming and felling going on here. It's nesting season or almost, and his knowledge of, interest in, and love for birds goes without saying. David said he had asked at the office why this is being done and was told because the new owners were told by the insurance company it was required because limbs might fall off the trees and hit someone! Idiotic and stupid, sez I, and of course, David agrees. He's considering moving, but I don't think too seriously. Anyway, it was good to talk to him.

El came over at 1:00, as scheduled, bringing her lunch and we ate together, then took of to Oxnard to visit Jim. He was--again--in bed, but awake and alert and actually, we had a good visit. It was such a pleasure to have Ellen there, as she engaged Jim in lively conversation, plus showed him pictures of when he was at her place last New Year's Day. Mike, Paula, their girls, and Greg were there, too, and Jim enjoyed seeing the pics. Speaking of which, here we are: 

We stayed about an hour, then said goodbye. 

Stopped at Ralph's (supermarket) on the way home, where El got what she needed and so did I, prominently luscious Sumo oranges. She helped me in with my items, then departed about 4:00.

Julie called shortly after to ask if I wanted to go to the BCNN meeting on Wednesday. Yes, I do, and this time, I won't forget. She'll pick up Regina, too, and this time, I'll also remember the twenty bucks I owe her.

Soaring Spirits lunch today.

SATURDAY

A pretty good day. My brother, Larry, called from Florida and we had a good talk. I was concerned, though, when he said he had had some dizziness and that his balance had worsened. I know several other people my age and his age who have had vertigo, also. I don't know why that happens. Even so, Larry's in pretty good shape at the age of 92. He told me one of his daughter's may move in with him, which would be a help to him, but also, she had lost her lease. However, he doesn't want her 26-year-old son, who now lives with his mother, to come, too. The guy seems to have some problems going out; he works at home, doesn't drive, and will often ask his mother to pick him up from wherever. I'm surprised he doesn't see a a therapist, considering there are so many doctors and nurses in Larry's family.

After our talk, I made lunch and bused to Target to return a bra I had bought--it's too small and I couldn't find another. Went from there to town, where I happily strolled Main; it's been a long time--well, a few weeks, since I've been there and I greatly enjoyed it. Bought a purse, , some washcloths, and a nice little clock for my desk: 

I then happily had my lunch at my spot across from the mission. 

The weather was lovely at first, sunny and close to 70 with little wind. Later in the afternoon, though, it clouded over and got cooler, so I bused home. In at 4:00, I transferred my crapola from my old purse to the new. 

Ellen called and we talked about whether I should go there or she come here today on our Sunday together. She'll come here, will bring her lunch, then we plan to go to Oxnard and see Jim. Annoying, when I tried to call where he lives now, I got a message saying, "You are not allowed to make dialed carrier calls." I can't understand what that's supposed to mean and why it would be, but I wonder if it involves my carrier from hell, Cricket Wireless. I guess we'll go anyway--I'll talk to El about it.

FRIDAY

Weight: Up a smidgen both at home (+.02 to 127.8) and at T.O.P.S. (+.03 to 128.7), but no prob. I tol that others that Lora and Todd will be back from Arizona shortly to host a memorial luncheon for their son, Seth. It will be on Saturday, March 8, and she put an invitation on Facebook; most of us from T.O.P.S. are going and Cheryl will pick me up.

Home at 10:00 and put in a color wash before breakfast, then ate, showered, and sat down to continue my infuriating contact with Cricket. I'm hoping against hope it's settled now, but I'm not confident. 

Considering I was having dinner with Suzanne and Vickie at 5:30, I probably shouldn't have, but by the time I got off the phone, I was hungry, so had a tuna sandwich. Interestingly, I had put this in the freezer a few weeks ago, when I changed my mind about what I wanted. Not sure if it would be any good at all--it was frozen solid--but thought I'd try, so I wrapped it in a dampened paper towel and microwaved it on "defrost" for six or so minutes. Surprisingly, it turned out quite good. 

After that, I just more or less futzed around  until it was time to stroll over to Vickie's at 5:30. Suzanne came shortly and we went to Danny's Deli for dinner. I had looked at the menu on-line earlier and decided on a breaded eggplant marinara. That's what I ordered and it was very good, plus I took some home for dinner tonight. Suzanne got beef stroganoff and Vickie--well, I don't remember what she got, but she shared some little games she had brought, including this: 

The idea is to pick a card, read one side, then turn the other side for the "answer." My first side was something like "The past is past" and the other was something to the effect that we must move on. For some reason and to my own surprise, I actually started to cry. I imagine it hit some usually-hidden deep phycological chord with me, but I was with such good friends, I wasn't embarrassed. 

Considering I didn't get my usual quota of exercise yesterday, I slept wonderfully well. Just got up at 6:15 and feel good. Think I'll go into town today.

 

THURSDAY

Went over to Quest in Von's for my 7:20 blood test appointment. I was early, but happily, the nurse (nurse?) took me early. I was surprised to see that her name tag said "Elva." Elva Gruhler* and I went all through St. James together and she's the only one I ever knew with that lovely name. If interested, see below for more on Elva.

I picked up some cottage cheese and stuff while was at Von's, pleased that at that hour, it was so quiet. Home, had breakfast, then packed up a large envelope that came for my (ex) daughter-in-law, Paula, and walked to the P.O. to mail it to Singapore. Now, did I want to send it the quickest way, which would cost $92 or have get there in six to ten days for $7.11? Guess. I ran into Vickie on the way and she told me how many of the other residents here were so upset over the trees being trimmed or removed. Some cried, they felt so sorry for the trees and if that doesn't point of the idiocy that seems to abound, I don't know what does. 

After the P.O., I fooled around with this and that until I was ready to take the bus to keep my 2:00 appointment at BOA. Rode there, met with a very pleasant and competent young woman named Janessa, and we sat for a full hour trying to figure things out with Cricket Wireless. I just can't bear to go into the details, but the problem isn't resolved yet; I have to get some more info on my end. Bused home and packed my lunch. 

After, I walked over to the office to give Kim my rent check (one of these days the residents' portal will be up and I'll do it electronically), then had my lunch in the middle--at 3:45. But so what, I can eat anytime I want, so I sat in the lovely sunshine and read my book (still on the Ted Kennedy bio). Lorraine called while I was there and we chatted for a bit.

Home after and I just played some computer games. 

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Blog entry of April 7, 2020: I thought I'd call my old friend, Elva Gruhler (that was her maiden name), with whom I graduated from St. James an incredible seventy years ago, but the phone was no longer "in service." Looked her up and, damn, Elva died three months ago. I'm not sure why that hit me so hard, but it did. We had a history--Dr, Gruhler and his family lived on Rosborough Avenue, as we did, and I went all through grammar school with Elva. They moved away, we lost touch until about ten years ago, when we reconnected. I visited Elva at her Lambertville Gallery of Fine Art, bringing Jeanne Dollard once and Peggy Hartman another time.

I don't know why I feel so bereft; the last time I talked to Elva was shortly after I moved here. She had called just to say hello, not realizing I was in California. I wish I had called her a few months ago. Elva's entire birth family pre-deceased her and her brother and sister were quite young. It's another part of my childhood gone forever and I remember some history with Elva that now, nobody else in the world remembers. It isn't even important or very significant, so why does it still clutter up my mind? That's a rhetorical question--I know why.

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TUESDAY EVENING AND WEDNESDAY

Via the Access Van, I got to Ojai and Ellen's at 5:00 pm Tuesday. We hung out for a bit, then met Greg at Sea Fresh. We had dinner--I tried Idaho trout, which was good--and, of course, chatted away. Back at El's, we warred over gin rummy (I lost abysmally!), and greatly enjoyed it. Greg said goodnight and I went to bed a bit after 9:00. I always sleep well at Ellen's--the guest room is comfortable, the bed is a king, and I have my own bathroom. In addition, I always feel safe and protected there.

Up at 6:30, had coffee and toast, then El arose and we drove the the parks and recreation center. There was Stella, a man named Manny, and a husband and wife team, Shelley and Mark. As it turned out , Shelley was with the parks and rec center and Mark simply volunteered to go along. With Stella and me, that was the whole group (we went in a van, not a bus).

And oh, boy, did we have a ball! Shelley and Mark are terrifically light-hearted, full of fun and intelligent besides. Manny was quiet at first, but opened up later, and Stella, whom I've known for several years, enjoyed it, too, although she has, as they say, a number of "issues."

Solvang is a kind of Danish town, a well-known tourist attraction in these parts, with lots of windmills, Danish museums and stores, and restaurants.  There are also missions, established by the Spaniards: 

Below: part of the mission there:

Below, my companions from left: Mark, Shelley, Stella, Manny:

And here I am with three of them:

Below is the rustic cemetery at the mission: 

We ate outside at a good restaurant and I was amazed that petite Stella ordered two brunches:

She didn't eat it all, and I had some of her pancakes after my Danish sausage and Havarti cheese.

After, we went to the bookstore and Hans Christian Andersen museum:

Unfortunately, the museum was closed, but overall, we did plenty of sight-seeing.

Noreen called me while I was in Solvang and I said I'd call her later. We left about three and got back to Ojai, as scheduled, at 4:30. El picked me up and, as she needed paper products and so did I, we went to Wal-Mart before she dropped me at home about 6:00.

 

I called Noreen, who had wanted to tell me about an incident at her T.O.P.S. meeting yesterday. I'm still a little puzzled, as she said a woman there had told her she was "counseled" on weight loss by an AI entity--seems odd.  Sharon also called to say she had heard about Lora's son and would bring a sympathy card to the meeting tomorrow. 

It's now 6:30 am and at 7:00, I'll walk over to Quest in Von's to get a blood test.