Well, it's no 2:03 on Tuesday and I'm just hanging out until the Access Van comes between 3:38 and 4:33. Earlier, I finished cleaning the bathroom sink, did a color wash, packed my carrier for overnight, ran the dishwasher, had lunch, showered and washed my hair and now it's 2:06 pm on Tuesday and I'm going to be merciful and end this. SEE YA!
This blog will be suspended for a day, as I'm spending the night at Ellen's and, since I won't be there until 5:00, it's just too much of a hassle to take my laptop and gear. I'll be going to Solvang tomorrow (Wednesday); not sure what I'll do there, but will report those breath-taking activities on Thursday. Adios!
I surprised myself by getting some long put-off chores done. They included scrubbing the tub, washing the bathmat and bath rugs, dry- and wet-mopping the hard floors, sweeping the patio, and cleaning counter tops. Gee, it's funny--that took me only a minute or two to record, but practically consumed the whole damn day!
Suzanne is back from Phoenix and we chatted a bit. She, Vickie, and I are going out to dinner on Friday and I hope this will be the long-delayed time I treat them for picking me up after my trip to Jersey.
I'll be staying over at Ellen's tonight, as my bus trip to Solvang with Stella leaves at 8:30 tomorrow. Decided to take the Access Van to El's, then she, Greg, and I will go to Sea Fresh for dinner; I'm looking forward to that, of course, After, Greg will probably stay and play gin rummy with us.
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A few minutes ago (I'm writing this on Monday evening), I was stunned to read on my friend, Lora's, Facebook page that her adult son, Seth, has died. I don't want to put the circumstances here, but he had had many difficulties in the past few years and the hope was that they were over. Clearly, they weren't. I immediately called her and we talked. She's still in Arizona and plans for what comes next, memorial service or whatever, haven't been made yet. I'm sick with sorrow for her.
Bused to the mall, exchanged a bra, then walked the block or so to Danny's Deli. I was early and it was crowded, as it's near Assumption Church and the twelve o'clock mass attendees go there after. I was early, anyway, so I put my name in and sat outside on the bench. Interestingly, right as Noreen arrived, a woman asked if she could take my picture. "To what purpose?" I asked, and she said she was an artist and wanted to paint my portrait. Well, okay, then, and I let her take it, then gave her my card and asked her to let me know when it was finished.
Noreen and I went in and settled down for lunch and deep-down talk. As I mentioned to her, she's one of the few people I don't feel I have to pretend with. Also, she's older than I am--she'll be ninety in June--and it's nice not to be the oldest once in awhile. I decided to try pastrami with au jus, kind of an odd setup, but it was pretty good; of course, the hazy IPA with it was yum.
Noreen decided on dinner, so ordered salmon with salad and veggies, plus a glass of chardonnay. We do separate checks, of course and and our combined tab must have come to at least sixty bucks, if not more. After a leisurely meal, we each gave the server a credit card. She went away with them, but to our amazement, she came back in a few minutes to say someone had paid them for us! This happened to me once before at a supermarket, when the person ahead of me paid. I wasn't able to find him or her to protest and yesterday, we also had no idea who it had been, as they seem to have already left. I know this is the "pay it forward" thing--a kind of fad that makes people feel good about themselves, I guess; then the beneficiaries are supposed to do the same.
That is not going to happen with me and to be honest, the whole thing makes me uneasy. I'm perfectly comfortable financially and I'd much rather have benefactors give the amount for my lunch to one of the three homeless people I passed on my way to meet Noreen. Also, I know that Noreen, while not wealthy, is also in the "comfortable" category, so-o-o... I know the people who do this mean well, but it makes no sense to me. Yes, they may very well donate to charitable causes, but why pick random people who, since they're eating in a restaurant, must not be destitute? I support several charities and will continue, but I'm not going to be picking up any strangers' checks.
I was pleased when Jimmy D. called me about 10 am (presumably, his helper got him the connection). To an extent, he was the same old Blowhard Jim; he boasted that he was in excellent health. He meant physically, clearly, because his mental capacity has deteriorated, which I'm not sure he realizes. When I mentioned our trip to see Betty at Villa Alamar two years ago, he had no recollection of it at all, but here's proof he was there:
Weight: I was up 1.2 at home and 1.4 at T.O.P.S., to 127.6 and 128.4, respectively--no prob, I'm still within my comfort zone. The "meeting" consisted of Cheryl bringing in the current issue of T.O.P.S. magazine and we all read some. This kills me: we all get the magazine at home; if we were interested, why wouldn't we just read it there? However, I almost never even open it. It's loaded with all kinds of "inspirational" messages, third-grade level, that are supposed to "inspire" us to lose weight and quit raiding the cookie jar. Okay, I'm a cynic and sometimes I just have to blow off steam.
Anyhoo, home and breakfast, then did food prep with the rest of my produce: Washed, cored, and sliced the huge apples, added cinnamon, Stevia, and butter spray to three and popped them in the oven. The other four I sliced, cored, seasoned, and put them on "low" in the slow cooker.
I got a text from someone I had found on Facebook who is a friend of Jimmy Downes' daughter, Christina. The friend gave me Chris'es phone number and I immediately called her. Chris said her Dad was having short-term memory problems and he no longer knows how to operate his phone. He still lives where he had been, but now has a helper who seems to do everything. His children took his car away (good! I was nervous when I was in it with him at the wheel), but he has a golf cart to get around. He's still smoking like a chimney, but I guess by now, it seems a moot point. Jim is just a few months younger than I am, so getting up there. I called Carolyn to fill her in about it and we had a nice talk. We vowed to get together one of these days when our schedules both permit.
Made and packed lunch, then set off for Ralph's Supermarket. I've been concerned that I haven't been getting enough walking in, so I was glad to do thw mile and a quarter. The weather was just ideal: sunny and hovering around seventy, with a very light breeze, so it was good.
Got bread, tomatoes, and some gorgeous grapefruit--half a dozen and they're bigger and better than Target's--yay! After, I sat in the round area nearby, as I have before, and ate my lunch. The seagulls were loving the fountain:
I called the Access Van to take me back and forth to Oxnard today to see Jim. I'm a little apprehensive about this because I asked to get there at noon and be picked up an hour later. Do I really want to spend an hour there? I may cancel--still considering. Maybe I'll take my lunch and see if I can eat it there.
I spent most of the day on food prep, just as I'd planned. It took me several hours to do the cabbage fritters, as I had more cabbage than I needed, so made a recipe and a half. After that, I made my signature turkey stir-fry: onions (chopped), green peppers (chopped), and roasted tomatoes (made them a few day ago), ground turkey, garlic, and my favorite Italian seasoning. I reserved a good portion for my dinner last night and froze the rest for later.
It wasn't until late afternoon that I did the roasted cauliflower. Boiled for six minutes first, then spread on mayo and parm cheese, sprinkled with garlic sauce, and roasted for twenty minutes. So for dinner, I had a portion each of the three items I had made. Did I prepare the three pounds of large apples? No. Why? Because lazy me, I just. didn't. feel. like. it--so shoot me.
Got a call from Jeanne Painter and we had a good chat. She tells me that her John, 95, still drinks a lot of V.O. daily, which he has since he was 17. Hey, maybe that's the secret to longevity.
After that, it was almost 2:00 and I made my lunch and took it to the middle to eat, along with a bio of Ted Kennedy by Joe McGinnis. I had read this years ago, but I like the way McGinnis writes (or wrote--he may be dead, for all I know), so am dipping into it again.
Home, I took a short nap and was awakened by Lorraine, calling me back after I had left a message that I had a lemon for her. I'll see her one of these days.
I called Jim Downes again and again, the answering machine. Haven't heard from his daughter, either--think I'll research further.
Access van picked me up about 10 of 11:00, which meant I got to Diane's a full hour early. Rather than descend on her then (although she told me later she would have been fine with it), I sat on the bench outside. It was no problem, as it was warm and sunny and I chatted with a few of the residents coming and going. Rang Diane's bell at 11:30 and she ushered me in.
I was mistaken that Diane's new apartment is a two-bedroom. She still has only one, but it's considerably larger than her other one. It's nicely furnished--she's a talented decorator--and I'm happy for her. She opened the little presents I brought her, then we sat and talked for a half hour or so with glasses of wine. Lunch followed: I had a pad Thai she made herself, accompanied with a mustard/honey sauce. It was delish and I was sure to tell her that. We had tiny little cupcakes for dessert, then talked and talked. Before I knew it, it was 3:00 and I had to wait outside for the Access Van, which was supposed to come between 3:00 and 3:30...
...well, it didn't get there until 4:00, although I didn't really mind. Driver had to pick up another person, this time at Victoria Care Centre, where Jim used to be, so I didn't get home until 4:30, but I was in no rush, so really didn't mind.
Today, I plan to do a lot of food prep and to that end, I got out the ingredients for my cabbage fritters and turkey stir-fry. I'll probably also make some applesauce and baked apples. Come to think of it, I have that cauliflower, too, which I'll season and bake.
Luckily, aside from the usual bathroom trip, I slept well. Got up at 6:45, which is about how I like it.
Washed the linens during breakfast and changed the bed after. Even after all this time, I'm still grateful for the washer and dryer in my apartment.
I called Jimmy D. once again and again got his answering machine. I looked him up on Facebook and saw that he hasn't posted anything for five years. However, I saw his daughter listed as a "friend" and Messaged her asking about Jim; haven't heard back yet. Called Noreen and left a message.
El texted, saying she was running late, so how about lunching out? Don't have to ask me twice and we went to the Hill Street Cafe. From there, we went to the P.O. and I finally mailed the damn pretzels for Violet. Postage was $50.15, but Mike will, of course, reimburse me. After, we drove to Wal-Crap, surely a more accurate name than Wal-Mart, to pick up some items El needed. I got detergent and crackers.
More productive was our next stop at Grocery Outlet; they have some great fish and those huge apples I like to bake and/or use for applesauce. Got those and a slew of other veggies, plus various stuff. Back at my place, El helped me with this and that and we discussed next week. Instead of getting together on Sunday, I'll stay over her place on Tuesday, then meet Stella for our bus trip to Solvang; El will take me home after. Noreen returned my call and, since I'm not seeing El on Sunday, we made a date for lunch then at Danny's Deli.
I found a package Canon at my door--another container of black ink. I had called last week because I had gotten an email advising me the ink I ordered had been delivered, but it hadn't. I called and they sent a replacement a few days ago. Now another one has come; I'll call them, but I suspect they'll tell me to keep it without charge, since I didn't order or pay for two. Annoying.
Decided to take the Access Van to Diane's today and scheduled it for both there and back. Possibly, I'll cancel the return ride; I'll see how energetic I feel.
It's been a long time since I talked to my friend, Nancy, so I called her yesterday. I was sorry to hear she had been in the hospital with pneumonia for six days in November, although she recovered. She's had knee problems and some kind of blood problem for many years, but is holding her own, as the saying goes. We both vowed to keep in closer touch now.
I tackled the two bags of pretzels that must go to Singapore and spent a fair amount of time wrapping them. Put them in my cart and started for the post office. Got about halfway there when I realized it was Presidents' Day and the P.O. was closed. Okay, El will be here today and I'll ask her to take me. Messaged Mike to ask what his limit is on postage (he'll reimburse me). I know he mentioned fifty bucks, but if it's more, I want to let him know.
Left about 4:30 to get the first of two buses to Stone Fire Grille for dinner with the Soaring Spirits gang. As I rounded the curve in the complex, I ran into Vickie, who insisted she wanted to take me there. I acquiesced and, as there was now plenty of time, I also accepted her invitation to stop into her place to visit. Did so and she offered me a beer; accepted that, also. We chatted happily for 45 or so, then took off. I wish I had thought to ask if she wanted to choice us (those who have lost life partners are also welcome in S.S.), but I didn't. Later, Vera gave me an printed invitation card, which I'll give Vickie.
Went in to find my friends--there were eleven of us, including, of course, dear Vera (no guys, though, which was unusual). I, of course, didn't have an IPA, as I had had beer at Vickie's and I never drink more than one. We had our nicely convivial time and, as ever, Vera took me home; got in at 7:30.
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Amused at some back-and-forth with my friend, Pat R., I looked up a particular person--a saint, no less and found Esmeralda's corpse on the Internet:
I'm intrigued by the website, the proprietor being a real, old-fashioned Catholic. In earlier days, I would have believed this one hundred percent myself:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/01/20/saint-of-the-day-20-january-st-eustochia-smeraldo-calafato-osc-1434-1485/
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Crossword fair to middlin', but I got most. Left at 10:15 to bus to Ellen's and she picked mu up at noon. We had lunch, then took a hike on the Meadow Preserve near her. It was a lovely day--sunny and in the low seventies, my fav--and a lovely walk. Here are a few pics from there:
Did a color wash, then spent several hours de-cluttering and reorganizing the shelving in my bedroom. I'm still not completely sold on the result, but it's better than before. While going over this and that, I found this letter from Jimmy D., which was certainly written a half-century or longer ago:
The text: Arty Dear, Sorry I didn't go out with you and Pat last evening, but we went to Maini instead. We got into a little trouble and were requested to leave the State. Keep it under your hat--please. I'll drop you a line when I get to Minnesota. Again, I'm sorry. Love, Jim
Finding it reminded me I hadn't heard from Jim in months. I called him, but the message machine--one of those garbled ones--was on and I asked him to call me. Much as Jim can be a pain in the rear, I hope he's okay. He's been a heavy smoker since about the time I started--when we were both in our teens--but I've been clean for thirty years or more.
Went over to Von's and stocked up on the items I need to complete my signature turkey stir-fry: sweet peppers and the ground turkey itself. I bought three pounds, which will make about four servings. Of course, I'll add fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic, and seasonings. Home, I divided the turkey and washed, cored, and chopped the peppers. Stowed all in the freezer, as I'll be in Ojai today, have Soaring Sprits tomorrow, and will be at Diane's on Tuesday. Naturally, it doesn't take long to make the stir-fry, but for some reason, I want to do it on a day I don't have other obligations.
Finally found a possible way to send the pretzels to sweet little Violet. (Actually, you wouldn't describe her personality as sweet and she sure isn't little anymore--must be five seven or so and I'm not sure she's finished growing.) Mike Messaged that if it's too hard to send, don't worry about it, but now I'm determined to do it. Will report back here, if successful. Or not.
Weight: Up 1.4 both at home and at T.O.P.S. for totals of 126.4 and 127.1, respectively. I have no problem with those, considering I was down more than five pounds last week, due to my malady. Meeting was somewhat draggy, as ever, but I was amused when Bev gave me this:
Well, I must be getting cautious in my old age: After viewing the water coming from the sky and checking the forecast--continuing virtually all day--I called Roy and told him I was apprehensive about going to see Jim yesterday. It's not as if I minded the ride, but I'd have to walk to the entrance of the complex in slushy conditions and wait for the Access Van, and so on. He understood entirely, said he'd call the place where Jim is to tell them we'll come another time. I said I'd call him Monday and we'll reschedule.
I called Diane and we had a good, long talk. She loves her new place and has resumed hosting her "groups"--Buddha study and book club, plus another I can't remember. Unfortunately, her neuropathy is worsening (it's progressive), so she's having more difficulty moving around; she uses the rollator exclusively now. We both have things coming up, so we settled on next Wednesday for me to come over and see her new digs.
So what did I do, stuck inside all day? I completed the under-the-sinks project and it's okay, I guess. The big disappointment was that after all, I couldn't fit both new organizers under the bathroom one, after all. Okay, I have one in there and, since I couldn't maneuver the other one to fit in the kitchen because of the drainer, I have one more or less "left over." At this point, I can't think of any other place where it would fit--maybe I'll offer it to Ellen.
T.O.P.S. today and I'm not looking forward to it. I didn't sleep well and thought I'd call Cheryl and beg off. However, I guess I'll go and see how I do.
Now I'm getting seriously annoyed with Lorraine. For years, my usual wake-up time had been about 5:00--sometimes even earlier, but I purposely started to stay up later, in order to sleep later. I now get up about 6:45, which suits me fine. Lorraine tends to call at 7:00 and did again yesterday while I had a mouth full of toothpaste. She called to report that it was raining and "to be careful out there." Oh, good grief, I try to be patient, but she's beginning to wear on me. Yes, I could just let it ring, as I have phone ID (can't bring myself to do that), but maybe I'll just ask her to make her calls later.
Anyhoo--after breakfast, I just cleaned up, then left for the bus at 10:05. It was drizzling and I wore my boots, but stupidly forgot my umbrella. Oh, well, I just got a little wet. Got to the place in Ojai where El picked me up at noon and off we went to her place.
El made lunch (I had a chicken sandwich and Blue Moon--yum!) then we went to some shops. El got some aluminum pans (very handy, I have some myself) and I a few birthday cards. Then we went to the Rainbow Bridge and saw Greg. El also got some protein drink and some kind of cheese. After, Greg left early and came back with us to play--what else? GIN RUMMY!
It was a tough fight, but I won by a slight margin; we didn't get up to 500, though, because the Access Van came to take me away at a little after 5:00. Home and I tried to think of some very small gift (we don't really exchange presents), just a token for Suzanne's birthday, which was yesterday. I finally hit on wrapping ribbon and a bow on one of the lemons El gave me from her tree and, with a card, left it at her door.
Got a Message from Mike asking if I'd send two bags of some certain pretzels to him for Violet. He said it would probably cost about fifty bucks, which may be a low estimate, but I'll see what I can do. (I assume he'll reimburse.)
Had a hassle with this machine last night, but called El and I think--one never knows with these things--the problem is resolved.
Note: Not exactly sure how I blundered into this typeface, but I like it, and will retain.
Yesterday was a satisfying one--not because great things happened, but because I finally got around to the everyday, mundane things I've put off. Did a color wash during breakfast, then quartered my four big apples and popped them in the larger slow cooker with cinnamon. I had just bought rice and understand it's good for the innards, so I put a cup with water in the smaller slow cooker and fired it up. I then tackled cleaning the fridge, which--well, talk about procrastination--I've been meaning to do since Hector was a pup. That's an old expression my mother never used--I just think it's funny. I actually looked it up and found this history of how it came to be: https://www.worldwidewords.org/qa/qa-in1.htm
What followed was a quick, impulsive trip across the street to Great Clips to get a trim. It's so-so--we're not talking The Beverly Hills here--but better than before. Before going home, I picked up oatmeal from Von's, then the mail (just something official for Mike, which I'll send him).
Jim's friend, Roy S.., called me back and we discussed going to see Jim. We settled on 1:00 on Thursday--I'll take the Access Van there and Roy will take me home. Made a note to call the Van today, as you have call a day ahead. I'm going to Ellen's today and decided I'd take the bus there, then the Van home, so called with the request. I also added twenty bucks to my account, so I don't have to remember to have the four dollars cash with me.
A high point of the day was that I received the two under-the-sink organizers I had ordered. I immediately cleared out under the kitchen sink and--after some difficulty--put one together. It's just an inexpensive thing in pink plastic, but I'm delighted with it....except...UH-OH!!! Read on (sob):
As I was typing this, I remembered that I had washed the two slow cookers and put them in the drainer on the counter next to the sink. Wait, didn't the drainer have to fit under, too? I certainly don't want it sitting out on the counter when not in use. I went, looked, moved things around, frowned in frustration, and tried it. The fact is--the drainer will fit only if it's kind of jammed in and then I can't get the tray in front to fit flat. Oddly for me, instead of doing my usual screaming histrionics and cursing my birth, I kind of mentally shrugged and decided I'd see if maybe both would fit under the bathroom sink. Anyway, I'm not going to obsess over it.
I put in a nice piece of salmon and lay it on a bed of lime slices. Added Italian seasoned and baked it up--delish!
El called to see how I was feeling--fine--and talked about what I might like for lunch at her place today. Anything will be fine as long as I'm with her, of course.
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Today, my husband would be 94 years old, if he hadn't died 16 years ago.
Rest in peace, Pat.
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Slow day. I slept well, I'm glad to record, and my physical condition has improved more. I'm still a little tentative about that, but things are better than they had been. Got a call from Ellen to see how I was feeling--I'll go over to her place tomorrow.
As I was preparing to go to Von's to again search for cleaning baking soda, Lorraine called and asked if we could meet in the middle, as the tree trimmers were near her building. I said okay, I'd stop on my way to Von's and I did.
The jury's still out as to whether I enjoy Lorraine's company or if I'd rather hang by my thumbs for three days than be with her. She is a non-stop talker and never, never interrupts herself long enough to ask about my recent doings, opinions, or anything else. She constantly complains about everything possible, has no interest in anything except her own doings--which are abysmally mundane without exception--and uses double negatives. Anyway, I chatted with her...scratch that, I listened to her...for maybe a half hour and then moved on.
Found the cleaning-sized baking soda at Von's, plus got rice and some nice big apples; I'll make applesauce today. Home, I did this and that--inconsequential, obviously--and had dinner. I called Jim's friend, Roy S., as I had promised to arrange a time for us to see Jim. Left a message.
La-di-dah--As a high-born lady, I'm getting used to ordering things from Amazon: Just sent for two under-the-sink organizers, which should arrive tomorrow. I'm also awaiting my Calcium Citrate and printer ink. I do enjoy getting things left at my door.
The plan had been for me to take the Access Van to Ellen's, but she called and suggested she come here, instead. I was better than I had been, but still not up to par, so I agreed. Did my usual Sunday stuff (crossword was pretty good), then got ready for my girl. She called me about noon to say she was in Ventura and right across the street at CVS; she stopped there to get me these:
Ellen called early and we discussed my visit today. I'll take the Access Van and get there sometime before noon. We thought we'd lunch, then go to Soule Park to walk. Sounds good. She's gotten into cooking lately and I had mentioned two chicken recipes I use a lot that are really good, so she asked me to bring them.
Changed the sheets and remade the bed, then did a bleach wash. My digestive system is still not up to par, so I was considering going to Urgent Care, but decided against it. Actually, it improved quite a bit later, which was a relief. I even had normal food and so far, so good.
Went over to CVS for some products and on the way, passed little girls and their Dad selling Girl Scout cookies. Naturally, I couldn't not buy, so I did. Suzanne was going to a funeral in Burlingame and I hadn't realized she had already left, so I thought I'd give them to her to share with the Sisters. However, she already left, so I just have to resist temptation.
I forgot to add a picture from T.O.P.S. on Friday of Sharon and yet another notable outfit:
I lost five pounds. Goes to show, all you have to do is get sick and you never have a weight problem. Specifically, I was down 5.2 at home, to 125 even and 5.4 at T.O.P.S to 125.7. The meeting was the usual therapy session. Ironically, I won the biggest loser prize--a big four bucks.
Home, breakfast (cottage cheese on toast). Although I learned that caffein should be skipped on a anti-diarrhea regime, I didn't care to omit, so had (just one) cup, but left out the sweetener. By the time I sat down, it was past 10:00 and once I ate, did the crosswords and cryptograms, it was later.
Went over to Von's and got the recommended BRAT items: bananas, rice, applesauce, and bread for toast. Cleaned up a bit and took the trash to the receptacle. While there, I saw Lorraine and we decided to meet int the middle while I had my lunch. Happily, it had gotten sunny and reasonably warm, although a little breezy.
My innards had been quiet for some time, but I foolishly added an IPA to my cottage cheese on bread lunch. I had no problem until a few hours later, when--well, I did. I'm hoping that was just a slight flare-up, though. Filled out my Valentine cards for the Tokyo, Singapore, and Hawaii kiddies (one of them is over twenty), and put them in the mail. Considering how slow USP has been, they might get them by Easter.
Ran into my neighbor, Gordon, and we chatted. I finally decided I'd put a note on the post by my parking spot and I did: "To the person in my parking space: Please leave your contact information here." Ordinarily, I wouldn't care, but I had told Vickie, who has several health, that she could park there and now she has to park on the street, a much longer walk.
Got my mail--nothing interesting--and just futzed around a bit. Had rice and water for dinner. It's hard to say how my malady is doing. I think it's abating, but it's hard to say. Mindful of dehydration, I'm drinking plenty of water, so I hope it's slowly resolving. If I'm not better by Monday, I'll call Primary Medical and/or Urgent Care.
A dreary day. I didn't go out at all, even to get the mail because it rained almost all day. If I ever entertain the notion of moving back to Jersey, I need to remember that. Plus, I'm still having some tummy problems, although it's eased a bit. I've been following the BRAT routine--or I would if I had any rice; I'll go to Von's today to get some. I did have applesauce, bananas, and toast; must replenish those.
Other than lazing around, I didn't do anything much. Watched a silly TV thing on Leonardo DiCaprio, made about twenty years ago. Boring. Played Royale Match on the laptop--even that is starting to bore me. Read my book on the murders at the Idaho college. Thought of calling Muckie to chat, but just didn't. If I feel better today, I'll see if Diane's available on Saturday. If so, I'll go over to see her new apartment.
Lay down for bit, but didn't nap, so got up. Damn, I hate this malaise! I'm considering it akin to teenage angst--hope I get over it once I galvanize myself. T.O.P.S. this morning--ugh.
A good day: Ellen came over about 12:30 and we sat and chatted for a bit, then loaded my donations into the car. I had a ton of stuff to give, including the pile of linens I had shown here before and this:
I called Diane to tell her I'm still having my gastrointestinal problem and we'd have to postpone my visit. I was sorry and so was she, but I didn't want to stray far from the bathroom Washed the bath rugs and a few other items, then tried to take a nap, but didn't fall asleep.
I finally got up and went over to Von's for bananas, cottage cheese, and Pepto Bismol. I had read on-line that the first two were good for what ails me. I had also wanted to get cabbage to make fritters, but something tells me my tummy may not approve, so I'll do it another time.
Ellen sent me a lovely Valentine card:
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I skipped Soaring Spirits lunch for the first time in months. Had a gastrointestinal problem--I don't want to get more specific--and just decided to lay low at home. I lay down for a nap at ???--I don't remember when, but I was awakened by a phone call from Brianna at Ojai Parks and Recreation. She said the February 11 bus trip to Solvang* was filled, but she asked if I wanted to go on February 26 and I said yes. She said she'd call Stella and ask her; did so. and now it's set for then.
I felt much refreshed when I woke up, but did nothing productive until late afternoon when I finally galvanized myself to go over to Von's for a few things. Other than that, the day was a wash, but once in a while, so what?
It's been freezing cold--it's only 57 degrees now, at 5:00 pm on Monday while I'm writing this. It was up to the seventies on Sunday at Casitas Lake and I'm hoping those temps will visit Ventura.
Unfortunately, my problem with my innards returned overnight. I was going to go to Diane's to see her new, two bedroom, apartment, but not sure if I had better beg off or not. I'll wait a few hours and see how it goes.
After breakfast and the crossword (only so-so), I took off for Ojai and Ellen's. Got there just at noon and walked the mile and some to El's. We chatted for a bit, then drove to Lake Casitas for lunch and viewing. It was a lovely day and the lake was beautifully simmering in the sun--I wish I had gotten better pictures. We first had lunch at the little cafe there; the hamburger was mediocre and so were the fresh fries, but we sat on the porch overlooking the lake and that was fine. Here's some of the terrain surrounding the lake:
Washed the sheets and remade, then spent a lot of time trying to get to the bottom of my problems with Cricket Wireless and BOA. I pay every month automatically--or I thought I did, but after a multitude of phone calls and confusion, I was told BOA pays them via cashier's check and recently, the checks haven't been cashed. However, the amount still comes out of my account, so what gives? I'm going to go in to see somebody at BOA on Monday.
After that, I needed a break, so packed lunch and took off for town. As I was leaving, Suzanne was coming in an we talked for a bit. She asked if I wanted a large picture frame--it's very attractive, but I really don't have room for it, so declined with thanks. Rounding the corner, I ran into Vickie, who insisted on dropping me off at the transit center, so we could chat a bit on the way. She did and I got the 16 to town.
There were lots of people strolling around and having lunch outside--very festive and I enjoyed it. Stopped in a few shops, but didn't buy anything consequential; got home about 4:00 and as I was coming in the complex, who did I see but Vickie again--we laughed over the coincidence.
Not sure why, but I felt very sleepy when I got home, so took a nap. I was glad Mike called and woke me after an hour--felt much invigorated. Mike said Violet was excited about going to Savannah College of Art Design for their summer "Rising Star" program. That's her mother's alma mater and, in fact, Paula was honored a few years ago by being named a distinguished alumna. She is, after all, a managing partner at Hirsch Bednar Design.
Jumped in the shower and washed my hair, then settled in for the night. Slept well, too.
It's off to Ellen's today--yay!
Lorraine called at 7:15 am--AAGH! I listened to her usual array of complaints, inane ideas about what an evil place the world is, and how everybody she meets is an idiot. Now I'm beginning to wonder if I should ever have befriended her. Oh, well, I'll try to avoid.
After breakfast, I accepted my Domestic Goddess role and spent virtually the whole day on chores. Food prep was the prominent one: I chopped two pounds of onions with my trusty Chop Wizard, then did a pound with the mandolin. Divided and stowed most in the freezer, reserving the rest for stewed (actually, mine are roasted) tomatoes. Quartered the tomatoes, added the onions, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian seasoning and popped all in the oven. I zested and juiced the five lemons given me by "Upstairs Mike." Tucked the results individually in the freezer and now I'm set for both turkey stir-fry and lemon squares, as well as whatever else.
I then turned my attention to the six pounds of chicken thighs I had bought at WinCo and followed the best recipe I've ever found. You brush them with melted butter, season (I used my favorite, Italian seasoning), then cover with foil and roast for an hour in a slow (300 degree) oven. After, you remove the file, raise the temp to 425 and keep them in for another twenty minutes or so. Oh, mama, are they good.
Also did a color wash; rearranged my warm outer clothes drawer (wool scarfs, coat hoods, gloves, etc.); and took the trash to the dumpster.
I called my cousin, Sally, and we talked, both about everyday things and David's death. I still don't know if they know what actually caused it, and I didn't want to ask. Sally said the memorial service will be in March. Possibly, I can get to it--I would like to, but will decide later.
I happened to see these Russian dancers on Facebook and found them so spectacular, I posted here:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=8768833133244245
Did a few chores in the morning, then took myself across the street to Nails L'Elegance for a long- overdue pedicure. The place was all decorated for the New Year--Year of the Wood Snake--which is, of course, celebrated across Asia. Kathy and the others are Vietnamese and were in colorful costumes:
Did a color wash during breakfast, ate, then pulled together the little verse for Duane and his gal (and her father). Wrapped it, made lunch, and walked to the P.O. to send, after which I bused to town.
It was very quiet, which I had expected, considering it was a week day and chilly, but I enjoyed it. Bought some Valentine cards and a few other small items, then enjoyed lunch, as ever, across from the mission.
Got home at 4:00 and ran into Vickie outside her apartment. She invited me in and we chatted for a bit. She was happily excited because re her cancer, she got an appointment with a new--I'm not sure what the title is, but her insurance won't cover it. The person is in the medical field, so I'm not sure why it wouldn't be covered, but maybe it's one of those unproven theory things...
Speaking of: I got a text from Jeanne Painter with a video of a doctor saying essentially that all medicines are crap. Jeanne said her mother was on cholesterol medication and it caused her to get Alzheimer's and die at 83. Oh-k-a-y... I guess I'll toss my meds and live to be--83...?
I called Roy Sanchez, the former student of Jim's, to whom I had given Jim's contact info. There was no answer, so I left a message asking him to call. I'd like to know if he contacted Jim or went to see him.
Looking forward to a day with Ellen today; she said she'll be over about noon, then we'll go shopping and to lunch.
Darn, I hadn't been bothered with RLS for months, but last night, it came back with a vengeance; had a very restless night and even got up to play a laptop game. I finally dropped off, but probably got no more than five hours.
Financial Note: Early on, I got the news that the pipe repair at my house in Jersey would cost $800; the plumber will send an invoice. I want to call my homeowners insurance broker to find out if it's covered. Report from Mike, who fixed it previously: "Freezing destroyed the valve put in a few weeks ago. I was capped with a solid pipe cap, which should be good until spring. It's odd that the sprinkler control box is off, but water flows full stream even off. Seems as if the valve that is supposed to shut off must be broken."
Ellen called early to ask if I wanted her to come over on Wednesday (now tomorrow) and we could grocery shop, go to lunch, and hang out. Of course, I was delighted to accept. My choice where we go could be WinCo, then maybe lunch at Aloha on the beach.
Suzanne stopped in to show me pictures of her recent trip to San Diego. As she said, it's too bad we went a week apart to the same area; otherwise, we could have gone together. However, it was nice she could see her baby great-nephew, Huxley, who's three months old and coming into a brave new world 😁.
Went to CVS for the OTC eye vitamins the doctor recommended. I was amazed at the price: forty bucks, but my OTC benefit covered all but fifteen and change. These are capsules to be taken in the morning and at night, so I just slipped them in with my other meds. Stopped at Von's for veggies, rice cakes, and a bunch of other stuff.
Called Lorraine to see if she wanted to meet me in the middle where I planned to take my lunch and she did. I took my check to the office and was dismayed to find the gathering room was locked. Kim told me the new owners would not allow residents to go in without the now mandatory $350.00 daily fee. Can't I even take my lunch in there once in while? Sure, for three-fifty a pop. The new owners want to attract those arranging business meetings, I understand. Oh, well, I can still eat in the middle...
...which Lorraine and I did at 1:30. Actually, I did--she lunches much earlier, but sat down with me to talk. In truth, Lorraine is one of those acquaintances with whom I have little in common. I can never decide if I consider her an okay companion or more of a bore and a pest. However, I like to have a variety of friends; I have black, gay, old, young, and in-between types, so I'll give her the benefit of the doubt.
I spent some time on the little verse I wrote as a thank-you to Duane, Anita, and Ray. It spells our their names and here it is:
D amn, you three are all so cute,
U pper class there's no denying,
A nd your actions are a hoot;
N o, I really am not lying,
E ven so, you're not as sweet
A s Trigger boy, for he's a treat,
N ot to mention little Buddy;
I am just a fuddy-duddy
T rying hard to now convey
A ll the thanks I want to say:
R eally had a super time
A t your place--to me,
Y ou're PRIME!
Love, Wrong Way Rosemary
The name? Ray jokingly dubbed me that because of my getting on the wrong train. The verse could be better, but I guess it's okay. I'm including with it a little pickleball Christmas ornament (they both play), and I'll send it off and hope they enjoy it.
Glory be, it rained! We hadn't had any since last March and, although this wasn't a downpour, it actually got the grass and sidewalk wet. It stopped after a few hours, but I hope it helped with the fires.
Did the usual Sunday things and a few chores, then went outside to wait for the Access Van. I had asked for a 5:00 arrival at Ellen's in Ojai, but there were some snags and I didn't get there until about 5:30. No matter, we chatted while El rode her exercise bike, then she served lunch. She had made a ground turkey meatloaf and there was a choice of "hot by itself" or "warm on a sandwich." I opted for the latter with the excellent coarse bread from The Farmer And the Cook. Accompanied by mixed vegetables and an IPA, it was yum. Greg had been invited, but had just gotten back from Santa Barbara and decided not. He asked if I wanted to go with him to Bart's Books, as I often have, but the Access Van was picking me up, so I said another time.
We then played a cutthroat game of gin rummy, which was a close battle. We had a great time, as we all have the same sense of humor. I don't even know who won, as the Access Van came before we reached a score of 500. Anyway, it was great fun.
As for Ellen's nice house in Ojai, it's actually owned by two sisters, identical twins, named Gwennie and Cessie. You have to be really on your toes when you visit, as they rule the roost. Here's Gwennie in a contemplative mood:
Access Van dropped me off at 6:00 and I called my neighbor, Lorraine, to see if she wanted to meet at the clubhouse today for lunch today (well, I'll bring lunch, but she eats much earlier). She said yes and I'll call her when I'm ready.
I got a fair amount of chores done after gallivanting for so long: Changed the bed washed the sheets and re-made; filed the mountain of papers I've been neglecting; washed, cored, and quartered three pounds of apples, put them in the slow cooker with cinnamon, and now have a nice batch of chunky applesauce.
I took my lunch outside to the middle to eat, but didn't stay long, as it was a little chilly. After, I treated myself by watching Chinatown, one of my top five movies, on my new DVD player. Called my cousin, Sally, to see how she was holding up after David's death, but there was no answer. I'll wait awhile to call again.
Got word from Little Egg that there was a sprinkler leak problem at my house. I called my long-time friend and neighbor, Susan Geldart to ask for the name of a plumber. Her husband, Walter, provided two names, but I may not have to use them. I was saddened to hear the the husband of a mutual friend of ours, Gary, had broken his hip, there were complications, and he died in Presbyterian Hospital in Philly. I must send a note of condolence to Julie.
Weight: I gained but even so, I was pleased because it was a miniscule amount: Home, I was up .08 to 129.2; at T.O.P.S., up 0.2 to 129.4--still in my comfort zone, but barely. We had the usual meandering meeting--only five of us, but it went okay. Next week, Lennie won't be here, as she's taking her granddaughter to NYC for some Broadway shows--lucky them!
Home at 10:00, had breakfast, and almost immediately set off for town. Stopped in a few shops, but didn't buy anything, then met Noreen at 1:00. We sat outside in the lovely sunshine and talked and talked, as ever. I wasn't at all hungry, so just had onion rings and an IPA.
Noreen is about as big a fan of Trump as my daughter, Ellen, meaning they both think he's the devil incarnate and N. was very vehement about it. Okay, he's a bad person, lower than a rat's heinie,* but in my estimation, they all are. The system is corrupt and the higher up you go, the more they stink. Anyway, we had an enjoyable time. While we were there, Ellen's friend, JoAnn, saw us and came up to say hello with her little pooch.
We said goodbye after several hours and bused home. Got in at 5:00 and had a text from Ellen about the rain predicted for tomorrow. She had invited me over and I don't want to miss, so will call the Access Van to take me there and back. El promised she'd ask Greg over too, and we'd play Blockus and gin rummy--YAY!
*I made that up, I'm proud to say.
I kept my 11:00 dentist appointment and was out of there in a half-hour. Took the bus home and Ellen got here before noon; we chatted a bit, then it was off to Target for paper towels, apples, tomatoes, and coffee. By the time we finished, it was after 2:00 and we went to the Rincon for a late lunch. We chose off the Happy Hour menu--amazingly inexpensive, considering the other restaurants I frequent. I had a cheeseburger with salad, plus a good IPA and, with tip, it was only a tad over twenty bucks--amazing.
Home to visit a bit more and to discuss Mom's possible future. I'm not in complete agreement with my children's ideas, but we have a kind of a tentative understanding. El invited me to come to her place on Sunday and I'm looking forward to that.
After we said goodbye, I sat down at this laptop to start off my chronicle of daily events. To my great annoyance, I could only read the blog, not post on it. After trying my best to remedy the situaiton, I packed it up, put it in my cart, and walked over to UBreakIFix. Bryce did, indeed, get me into it in a second and I hope that won't change.
Called Noreen after dinner on the off chance she could meet for lunch today. Happily, she can and I'll see her at Dargan's at 1:00.
😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔
Duane put a lovely tribute to his late brother, David, on Facebook. Here's the picture he posted with it:
A see-saw day, both good and very un-good.
We got to Santa Barbara and Villa Alamar about 10:30 and found Betty in the activities room along with other residents. Michelle, one of the activities leaders, was leading a kind of bingo game, matching up small pictures. Only one or two of the ten residents could do it, but Michelle was adept at helping them. After, I sat with Betty after she was wheeled to the dining room for lunch. She ate well--by herself--and I enjoyed seeing her do that. What I didn't enjoy was a phone call I got from cousin Sally's son, Duane, while I was there.
He called to tell me sad and sudden news from Encinitas: his brother, David, had been found dead a few hours before. I was stunned speechless. I had chatted with David at the parties a few days ago and had met him before. David had some kind of slow-learner problem and went to special classes in school. I always thought he had Asperger's Syndrome, as he was very reclusive, had little sense of humor, and was unsocial in the extreme. However, he did have a job (stocking shelves at Ralph's supermarket), drove a car, and lived in his own apartment. Duane told me he had been dropped off at home, but was called later and there was no answer. At this point, they have no idea why he had died or how. He was only in his middle fifties and seemingly, was in reasonably good health. Here is David during Sally's birthday dinner:
Yesterday, Tuesday, I went to Oxnard to visit Jim. He's in Granny's Care Home and there are only six residents. He was clean and neat, although still, of course, terribly thin. He seemed glad to see me and we chatted for about a half hour. Unfortunately, he was in a wheel chair and said he no longer walks. It's run by the owners, Victor and Celeste--I think it's a franchise--and they were very nice. I asked if I could see the place and Victor gave me a little tour. You wouldn't think it was a care facility from the outside; it looks simply like a modest, middle-class home and I like that for Jim. When I saw his room, I liked it even more. It's very small--maybe was meant to be the nursery--but nice and homey with a flowered quilt on the bed and a white bureau. Victor mentioned Jim's fragility, but thinks he's dong fairly well. I agree, although Jim seems even more vague than he had.
Home and went to Von's after lunch. Phone rang later and it was a man who said he was looking for Jim. I told him to identify himself and he said he was Roy S., a former student of Jim's years ago. Now I remember Jim mentioning him and saying they were friends. I told Roy where Jim was, said I had just seen him, and gave him the information about Granny's care. He gave me his number and I'll talk to him soon.
After dinner, my upstairs neighbor, Leah, came down to give me some banana pudding she had made and had texted me about (it was delish and yes, I know it should be "about which she had texted me," but I don't care!). She came in for a bit and we chatted. Leah is from Pittsburgh, just turned 33, and is a pathologist assistant (not sure of the title) with the county coroner's office--she actually helps in carving people up. She regaled me with some stories--harrowing, but hilarious.
Today, it's off to Santa Barbara to see Betty, then lunch with Carolyn.
👈👈👈👈👈👉👉👉👉👉
SALLY TURNS NINETY
I just don't have the time or mental energy to tell about my time away in close detail, so I'll simply post a few pictures and sketch things out. Here are Sally and her family: five of her six children, her soon-to-be grandson in-law, Cooper, and Tigger, Ani's bow-wow:
Well, it's no 2:03 on Tuesday and I'm just hanging out until the Access Van comes between 3:38 and 4:33. Earlier, I finished cleani...
