SUNDAY

Before breakfast, I washed, dried, and put away a load of laundry. Did the crossword, which unfortunately, continued the less-than-interesting trend. Mike messaged me with Violet's address in Savannah, there because she got into their "Rising Star" young artist program; I didn't realize she had started yet. Her seventeenth birthday is on Thursday and I sent her an Amazon gift card. 

Got the news from Jersey that the HVAC people had come and fixed the problem tenant Lori told me about. The system had made a kind of loud humming noise, but luckily, it was a minor problem and cost me only $150.

Went to Von's for carrots, cherries, sweet peppers, and some Heathy Choice frozen dinners. Put the stuff away, then packed lunch and naturally, took it out to the middle to eat. I met Suzanne coming back from the pool and once again, considered going in, but didn't. I don't know why in the HELL I don't take advantage of the lovely pool and spa, but I hardly ever do. 

Washed and trimmed the carrots, added olive oil and Italian seasoning, they roasted them in the oven. This is my favorite way to cook carrots and I like them either cold or heated up. Somehow, I don't really like carrots raw and I never, never buy "baby carrots." They're not babies, they're just regular carrots with most of the vitamins and minerals pared off and they're an abomination, damn it! 

Ellen called and said the water was going to be turned off tomorrow where she lives (routine maintenance or something) and did I want to go with her to Wal-Mart, then lunch?  The vast majority of Mimi's Musings fans (two? one?) will know the answer to that one and I'll be ready at noon. 

Darn, I had a terrible time sleeping last night. Woke up at 2:20 for the usual, then lay awake for hours. Finally got up at 6:00, a half-hour ago, stripped the bed, and started a wash. I have Soaring Spirits lunch today, then rehearsal tonight, so I'll need to nap in between.  

SATURDAY, THE SHOW, AND A BIRTHDAY

As seems to happen often, the first part of the day  was problematic, but the next was pretty good. I got the Access Van to take me to rehearsal, but it was so early, I got there at 8:20 for our 9:30 start. That meant I had to hang around for more than an hour. 

Rehearsal went well and co-director Brian gave me some great suggestions for adding prop pieces to my piece. We went over the whole show twice and here are some take-outs:

The woman above (I was introduced earlier, but can't quite remember her name--something like "Elm.") gave her whole monologue in Ukrainian. What sense does that make? Plenty: We're going to have a translation projected onto a screen  over her head. Also, she was so impassioned, it was clear she was a refugee and spoke about war and its horrors. 

I'm not sure if I mentioned it before, but I'm the opening act. There are two ways to look at that: One, that it's an advantage, as the audience will be happily expectant; but two, they may not be quite settled down to turning their full attention to the show. Oh, well, it doesn't really matter much and anyway, it's Erica's and Brian's decision to make.

Amber dropped me off about 12:30 and I had lunch (outside, of course), then dead-headed the geraniums, did a load of laundry, and neatened up a bit. At 4:00, Suzanne stopped for me and we went around the corner to pick up Vickie, and celebrate her sixty-ninth birthday. We went to  La Cabana in Saticoy; this is authentic Mexican, and was very good. It wasn't even 4:30 when we got there and I often have dinner closer to 7:00, so wasn't at all hungry. However, I had a good taco with sides, a good IPA, and, of course, a good time with my two good friends. And what kind of life do I have?  That's right--it's good. 😊

FRIDAY AND A BUNCH OF OTHER STUFF

Disaster on the weight front: I gained 2.2 lbs at home, up to 131.6 and 2.4 at T.O.P.S., up to a ghastly 132.6. I was only mildly placated when it turned out the other four attendees had also gained. Anyway, I'd better start doing better or--or what? Sooner or later, I'll be back  up to 204 pounds. Anyway, Sharon had on a starry top and starry earrings--the latter she made herself: 

 She gave leader Lennie a pretty ring for her middle finger, which Sharon had also made herself: 

Home, I was pleased to have been sent a phone number for Jim Downes' sister, with whom I graduated. I'll call her today. I was stunned to read on my friend, Pat R.'s blog, the following about an RC church with a gay priest: https://thecatholicherald.com/new-york-parish-holds-pride-mass-on-trinity-sunday/ I sent it to Vickie and she was pleased. I'd love to know more about this priest. this parish, and especially, the reaction of the official church. 

Ellen and Greg came a little after 1:00 and we went to lunch at Steven's Greek. Greg is very selective about food and besides Steven's, Lure Fish House in town is the only other place he trusts with food. Wild caught fish is the only kind he'll eat and he has other specifications. Next time, we'll go to Lure. 

After lunch, we went directly to Barnes & Noble, where we sat and read and read for about an hour. I still have a gift card, but didn't yet buy anything. I looked into a lot of interesting books and was amazed to find this:  

I emailed Vickie to alert her to it and she was very appreciative. Hey, maybe times, they are (finally) a'changin'!

El and Greg came back to my place and while El and I sat on the patio and talked and talked, Greg make notes from the book he had bought. El had gotten a text from Paula, my ex-daughter-in-law, inviting us to L.A. where she and other member of her family will scatter their parents' ashes. Sounds interesting and happily, Violet will probably be there, too.

In the middle of his morning bike ride, Mike facetimed us about 5:00 and his Mum and big sister enjoyed it. We talked over Thanksgiving plans and so on. Here's Mike when he called from thousands of miles away, of course--it's amazing how we now just take that for granted: 

Rehearsal at 9:30 this morning and Amber isn't picking me up today, so I'll have to bus there unless I can think of an alternative. 

THURSDAY

Finally got my alendronate script straightened out, plus several other mundane "business" chores. Went over to CVS to get my three month's worth of the alendronate. Stopped at Von's on the way home for blueberries, broccoli, and other essentials. Made and packed my lunch, took it out to the middle, and enjoyed it there. Somehow, I've gotten in that habit and I like it. Ran into Suzanne coming back from the pool and we chatted. I told her that one of these days, I'll go in myself--hmm, when that happens, the world might stop turning. Also saw Kathy coming back after depositing her trash and we talked. I gave her my card and hope to get to know her better.

I got a text from Jeanne (Dollard) Painter and we communicated back and forth. John is still on hospice, but at 96, is holding his own. She showed me a video of the two of them with a guitarist playing "Oh, Johnny, oh, Johnny, how you can love...." John  and she were sitting on the bed holding hands and tears came to my eyes. They are so lucky to have each other.

I went into my file and pulled out a number of scripts I had written and used for my acting classes. Some had been presented by the Little Egg Theatre Company, also. I'll ask Erica if she  might need more material for our upcoming show which will open on August 15. 

I did some clean-up on the patio and straightened up inside a bit, but generally had a pretty lazy day. I'll go to T.O.P.S. this morning, then El and Greg will pick me up and we'll got the Steven's Greek for lunch--I'm looking forward to that, of course.   

WIDER: The blood runs cold: 

https://scheerpost.com/2025/07/04/exclusive-mahmoud-khalil-palestinian-activist-jailed-by-ice-for-104-days-in-first-live-interview

WEDNESDAY

I got a fair number of "business" matters and other chores done, all too boring to specify. Took my lunch out to the middle to eat, then showered and dressed. 

I found another little rhyme I had written some years ago, called Why Do You Have To Be Young? I decided to work up a little piece around it, bring it to rehearsal to see if Erica wants to include it in the show. It's okay with me yes or no. 

Got a phone call from Lisa G., with whom I had appeared almost two years ago. She hadn't heard about the new show for some reason and asked if she could still audition. I suggested she contact director Erica to see and she may or may not. Here are Lisa, Amy, and me two years ago in After All This Time: 

Amber picked me up and off we went to "rehearsal." The quote marks denote that it wasn't exactly a rehearsal, because the show hasn't been written yet. What we do when we gather is go over what went before, then discuss, suggest, and semi-finalize the show. Amber, Shannon, and the two directors are the ones actually putting words on paper (rather, on screen), with the rest of us coming up with ideas. As we do, there are comments and discussion, then Erica adds to her list. The next day, she emails to all what was decided, although all are subject to revision. I brought in another (but short) verse entitled "Why Do Have To Be Young?" which I recited for Erica, but I don't know if she thought it would fit. Here's Erica last night: 

One of the items we went over was the title for the show. After a fair amount of discussion, we settled--subject to change--on "Snappy Players Present Backstage Bedlam, A Low Attention Span Variety Show." That may or may not be changed. As for "Snappy Players," isn't this the "Fractured Actors" ensemble? Yes, but that's Jeff and Shannon's baby and this is an off-shoot. Considering their recent divorce, I don't know how F.A. will shape up--or even survive.

We broke up a half-hour early, but the writers stayed for another half and Amber is one of them, so I stayed, too. It was interesting to sit in as she, Shannon, Erica, and Brian hashed over ideas; Shannon acting out some of her ideas. Didn't get home until twenty of ten, then stayed up with T.V. and snacks for another hour--horrors, I'm getting to be a dirty stay-out! 

TUESDAY

Had breakfast. fussed around with this and that, packed lunch and set off for Wal-Mart, where I got tuna packets, crackers, and vinegar; Trader Joe's (grapefruit); and Green Thumb (a clipper). I wanted to get a tomato cage at the latter, too, but theirs were all too large; I was told they were out of smaller ones, but should get more next week. Lunched at the little park near Ralph's and bused home. 

Ellen called to ask if I wanted to go to lunch at Steven's Greek with Greg and her on Friday. Oh, no, no,  that would be a bore--ha!  Well, sure, naturally, so they'll pick me up. 

Suzanne, Vickie, and I agreed by text we'd go to La Cabana restaurant in Santa Paula on Saturday to celebrate Vickie's birthday. Suzanne suggested we beat the crowd by leaving at 4:00 pm, very early, but I'll adjust and adapt. I have rehearsal, but it's in the morning, so that's okay. 

Somebody from the office called to respond to my question about contacting a carpet-cleaning company--mine are badly in need. It seems they no longer use a particular outfit, but she gave me a name and number for another. 

Took a nap (I'm adjusting my sleep schedule, so I can stay up later), then went out to get the mail. Ran into Vickie and we fell into conversation. An acquaintance of hers, Kathy, came along with her tiny dog, Na-noo, and joined us. In her working life, she had been a property manager, and I liked her a lot. Later, I invited Vickie in and we sat down and had a long, open-hearted talk about religion, sexual orientation, and other topics in which mutual trust and the absence of judgement is essential. She stayed until 9:00, which was fine by me. I was able to stay up until 10:30 and slept soundly until 7:00.   

☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺

From Monday night, the original photo by Shannon, who sacrificed half her head:

 And here I was, the shrimp in the second row. BTW, on my right is Jonathan, who's from Morristown, NJ, and new to the group: 

☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺

MONDAY

Took lunch outside, which was okay, but a little too windy. Home, I prepared with oil and seasonings, a pound of big, beautiful mushrooms and popped them in the oven. Had a few, then dressed for our first gathering of the new show. Darn, the Access Van picked me up at 4:30, an hour and a half early for the 6:00 pm call, when it takes only about twenty minutes to get there. Luckily, he also picked up, then dropped off, two others, one in a wheelchair, so I got there about 5:20. I was dismayed to learn from Gus, the driver, that the free ticket program for the Access Van was going to end for lack of funding. Oh, well, it's still well-worth it to pay the four dollars a ride when I need it. 

Since we got there early, the door was locked and Kiara was the only one there, sitting in her car. I hadn't know her before, but we introduced ourselves and sat in her car to wait. Brian got there shortly and we went in. Before too long, others arrived in the cast and crew, about thirty, I guess. Aside from directors Erica and Brian, I knew only a few, including Amy, Mandy, Meredith, Becky, and Amber. Anyway, the meeting started when we discussed topics related to the show. The major theme is a "show within a show"--i.e., backstage shenanigans. Erica set herself up on the stage with laptop and typed in ideas and suggestions as we voiced them, which were projected on a screen. She asked for our thoughts about a title and there were lots of good ones. I suggested "A Night To Forget," and "The Show Must Go On--But Why?"  She also asked us to relate some snafus from our on-stage pasts and to suggest some comic situations. That was a lot of fun. Here's Erica, recording our comments:

I had asked around if it was convenient for anybody for chauffer me back and forth, so I didn't have to wait for the Access Van; Amber and Amy volunteered and Amber did so. We broke up a little early--8:40 and subsequent meetings will be on Mondays each week, plus alternating Wednesdays and Thursdays, plus Saturday mornings from 9:30 to noon.  

Got home at 9:00 and, of course, had to watch my hour of TV, but then went to bed and slept soundly until 6:00. I've got lots of chores to catch up on today (as ever!), including walking to Green Thumb to get a cage for my tomato plant.  

Note: Niece Carolyn sent me an Instagram reel of a woman who's kind of a collector of unusual obituaries. One she cited was a litany of grievances against a man named Charles Something. It mentioned how he was devious, mean, and unworthy of love. I thought it was peculiar and I wondered what the purpose of writing that--presumably by his relatives-was, especially since it was couched in vague, general terms and didn't specify what, exactly, he had done. Anyway, I'll be interested in more obits, as I've always had a fixation on them--or maybe on death itself.

SUNDAY AT ELLEN'S

 After the usual Sunday routine, I dressed, prepared my cart, and went out to wait for the Access Van. Driver was a little late, having gone to the Hill Street gate where, of course, I wasn't. He finally got to the main entrance, though, and off we went.

El and I had planned for me to be there about noon and I was early, but no prob.  She's done a lot to unpack, put away, and get things in order, but has a long way to go. However, the place looks lovely, and the fact that she has so many cabinets, drawers, and other storage space makes the task so much easier (and me green with envy). Happily, the HVAC work is done; that was a drag for her. She still has plans for things, but it's close to being finished.  In the living room is a large kind of wheel; it must be at least five feet high and wide, made of wood and lined with felt. This is a kind of big treadmill for the kitties, but neither Gwennie nor Cessy has yet ridden it. El plans to have the large side porch enclosed and will put it out there eventually.

El made a nice lunch of chicken salad, then she installed (herself! with an electric drill! And perfectly!) drapery holdbacks on the big side window. She had already done the front ones, along with the rods. We then walked to the community center, just a short distance away and looked around at the large gym, pool, spa, gathering room, and kitchen. The building is very spacious and well-kept; can't wait to go in the pool there.

It was very warm (84 degrees, but I understand the East Coast has been even warmer). Later, we sat on the porch and chatted. The Access Van picked me up about 6:15 and I was pleased to see the driver was Eric, whom I've had before and like a lot. Eric celebrated his 29th birthday last week and is full of good cheer, so it was enjoyable riding with him and we shared a lot of laughs.

As for today, I have our first get-together with cast and crew and "Studio J" from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. I scheduled the Access Van for this, too, but I'm hoping somebody--maybe Ken--will be in the group and will volunteer to take me home from subsequent meetings. We're scheduled for Wednesday, too, plus several dates a week until opening in August. 

I'm very curious to see how this will set up. Neither Jeff nor Shannon seem to be involved, which is unusual, but from what I've been told, understandable.  

Ugh, I had a terrible time sleeping last night. I seem to have some kind of itchy rash between some of my toes and it kept me up for hours. It finally subsided with anti-itch cream, and I hope doesn't recur.   

SATURDAY

I had toyed with the idea of walking to Wal-Mart, but changed my mind. Instead, I sat down with my list of things to do, which included paying July's rent (electronically, of course, I use Loft); ordering from Amazon Werther Sugar Free candy ($21) and printer ink ($35.56)* contacting management for info about their carpet cleaning company--my living room needs them badly; and calling the Access Ven to go to and from Ellen's today. After that, I made up my lunch and took it out to the middle to eat. Usually, I change the sheets on Sunday morning, but I decided to do it yesterday, so did. After I remade the bed, I took a 20-minute nap, then did a color wash.   

Ellen texted me, asking if I wanted to have lunch today at Sea Fresh or salad and chicken at her place. I've fallen out of love with Sea Fresh, but said the latter sounds great and I hope it isn't too hot to eat on the porch. 

I've been having a few problems with the photo part of my laptop, so took it over to Asurion. However, only one guy was there and there were two in front of me, so told him I'd come back tomorrow. Went to CVS, but stayed around home most of the day. 

I forgot to add this on Friday: Sharon in her fourth of July outfit:

And this 67-year-old still-to-motion pic, I put on Facebook. Family enjoyed it, but animated, our faces look utterly unlike us--really weird--or, as my nephew commented, "creepy."

*And the toner was at my door when I got up just now at 5:27 am--modern life is amazing.

FRIDAY--I'M IN AND SO IS THE GESTOPO

Hey, I gotta say, it wasn't a bad day. Home, I had lost 1.2  (to 129.4) and at T.O.P.S., I was down 1.1 to 130.2. Incredibly, I was the biggest loser, so was rewarded with a big three bucks. It seems our group has dwindled to four regulars: Lennie, Sharon, Cheryl, and me, so after weigh-ins, we more or less just chatted. Something of actual note was discussed, though, see WIDER below. 

Home at 10:00, had breakfast and did this and that before leaving to meet Noreen at Dargan's for lunch. We were both early, which was good and we sat in the outside area on a lovely, lightly warm, summer day. Of course, we talked and talked during and after, she with a pastrami sandwich and champagne, Mimi with Shepard's pie and a hazy IPA.

We were there for two hours talking and talking and baring our souls. Noreen turned 90 last week and when I asked how she was doing emotionally, she was honest about being down now and then, but I hope, not clinically depressed. Anyway, it was good to be with her, as ever. After we said goodbye, I stopped in a few shops, but didn't buy anything. Took the 6 bus back to the transit center and waited for the 10 to get home. 

Just as I was boarding, Erica, director of the upcoming Fractured Actors show with Brian, called to tell me I was in. Wow, I'm thrilled. I'm intrigued by the fact that the show isn't actually written yet because it involves is a kind of show within a show. As I understand it, it will involve the cast actually writing and staging a show. Erica will send an email listing rehearsal times and so on. I've been on stage with Erica and consider her one of the best in the troupe.   

Didn't get home until after 5:00 at which point I whipped up a turkey stir-fry. Ate half and will have the other half tonight. 

WIDER: Cheryl was at Wal-Mart when an ICE car and a number of officers descended on it and took several people into custody, including one or more cashiers. Nice that we have our own little Gestapo to show these brown people who's boss, right? Okay, they may be American citizens, but they're brown, aren't they? That means they're evil.

THURSDAY AND DENIZENS OF MISERACORDIA

Another day with morning phone calls. I heard from Ellen early on and we had a good long talk. She's finally nearing the end of the necessary fixing-ups to her new house, HVAC and so on. She invited me to come over on Sunday and, of course, I accepted with pleasure. 

I received an interesting--very interesting--call from a woman named Bobbi Murphy C.* She had been a classmate of Betty's, my twin sister, and was calling to let me know where the rumor that Betty had died had originated--it seems via a classmate named Mary Beth Gilbert G.* I vaguely remember her name from sixty-some years ago, when Betty and she were friends at Misericordia. I also remember Margo Conner G.* from the class, with whom Betty was friendly.  Anyway, Bobbi is quite a talker; we were on the phone for about 45 minutes. Unfortunately, she is blind, but seems reasonably cheerful (I'd kill myself and I mean that literally).  She told me she was born and brought up in Philly, at one time was in the military, later worked in the occupational therapy field, married in her forties, no children, and her husband died three years ago. She lives in The Villages, Florida, and has an aide. 

Bobbi gave me Mary Beth's number and being intrigued with the whole situation, I called her and left a  voice mail message. It seems doubtful I'll get a call back as she seems to be slow on the uptake, i.e. has dementia, but I'll try again. I find the situation intriguing and hope to hear back from here. Actually, I'll call Margo, too, and see what happens there. After, I called Sister Blogster (Blogaria? Blogmistress?), Pat McHale R.*, to tell her about the above, as it was thanks to her and one of her neighbors that I received the call from Bobbi. 

All that prompted me to call my brother, Larry, who also lives in Florida, to share the info. He was interested and we had a good long talk. He now uses a walker, and has some arthritis problems (who doesn't), but for 92, is in pretty good physical shape and mentally sharp. I'd love to get Ellen to go with me to their annual pre-Christmas gathering, which the family has had for years--attendees often total more than fifty. Think I'll ask when I see her Sunday. Anyway, it was so good talking to him.

After all that, I packed my lunch and took off for Burlington Co. to return my sneakers. I talked to the manager to see if I could have the damn security wire removed before trying on, so I could test them by walking normally. She said yes and one of these days, I'll go back.

From there, I went to WinCo for grapefruit and other items, then bussed home, still with my uneaten lunch. By that time, I was 3:00 and, rather than staying in town, I just took it out to the middle and enjoyed it there.  

T.O.P.S. today (ugh, I think I again gained), then lunch with Noreen at Dargan's. I printed out another article by Chris Hedges to give her as she enjoyed the last one so much.

*Married name, which I won't list. 

WEDNESDAY AND JIM

The Access Van picked me up at 10:30 and I paid--or didn't pay--for the first time with the free ticket sent by the Ventura Area on Agency. Used a second on the way back, so I have eight more. In July, I get ten. Actually, I doubt very much if I'll use that many. Much as I appreciate freebies, there are two major reasons I want to go slow on this: One, I need to walk and I don't want to get in the habit of being picked up. The walk to the bus stop is close to a half-mile, then when I return it's another half, so I walk a mile without even thinking about it. The second is because--ungrateful wretch that I am--it's kind of a hassle to get out there within the certain time period and I usually go early because I'm paranoid about being late. I'll certainly use the Van on occasion, just not for every little trip.

Jim was in bed, as usual, when I got there, but he perked up when he saw me. I sat down and we talked for about forty-five. I had called Victor earlier to be told it was okay to bring my lunch and eat with Jim on the patio. I waited there after the aide arrived to dress Jim and get him in his wheelchair. I had my tuna sandwich and illicit IPA and it was very enjoyable.*

When I told Jim about coming on the Access Van, he got excited about the possibility he could use the service, too. However, when I tried to explain how to apply, he got very confused. I gave him the number to call, but I just don't know if they'd want him to go somewhere to have his picture taken or submit proof of age or something. I just don't remember what I did, as it was several years ago.

Anyway, I was called to say the driver was on his way. He got there about 12;15 and I was surprised to see he was driving a brand new electric sedan, rather than a van. We chatted on the way home and he said they had another of those. I guess it's more practical, but only for certain riders; it wouldn't accommodate a wheel chair, for instance.  

Good grief, I was home before 1:00--that's about two hours before I usually head out. Went over to Von's for a few things, including some yummy cherries. 

I got the T.O.P.S. membership list typed and printed out five copies. Now, that's the end of my taking minutes and otherwise acting as recording secretary, which I'm not and don't want to be. Oddly, all day yesterday, I thought it was Thursday and that I had T.O.P.S. today. No, Mimi, today is Thursday, yesterday  was Wednesday, and tomorrow is...uh...Sunday, maybe?  AAGH😬!

*I actually had with me one of those little bottles of cabernet sauvignon, the red Jim always drank. However, I thought better of it. For one thing, if Victor found I had given it to Jim, it may have made me persona non grata at Granny's Home Center and/or have gotten Victor in trouble. More important, it could effect Jim's condition in some way. I'm glad I thought better of it. 

TUESDAY

Boy, I spent the entire morning on phone calls, including three times to Granny's Home Center. Why so? Because I'm going to see Jim today--I'm taking him some political articles (my printer is once again working--yay!), plus my lunch, because I want to eat with him on the patio there. To get the go-ahead, I called Celeste, one of the directors, and she said that was fine. However, I also tried to call Jim to tell him I was coming and got the message the call couldn't be completed as dialed. Called Celeste back and was told Jim doesn't have a phone. Since when? I had called him directly before on his own phone. Why would he no longer have one? I'll try to find out today. 

I had a balance on my account for the Access Van, so called to ask if I could donate it to the service now that I ride free; yes, and I'll get a receipt via w-mail. 

Also called Meticulous to ask what my tenant wanted to know--whether they check for any clogs or pipe problems. Was told no, as those are underground, so I e-mailed Lori to that effect. 

Did a bleach wash, and that was enough domesticity, so I packed a lunch and bused to town. I took a book back to the library, took out another, and bought two more at the little bookstore maintained by Friends of the Library. Am I nuts? I already have an alarmingly large mini-library of my own, both those that I've read, but want to keep:

                                                         

...and those I haven't read yet, but couldn't resist:

I've read the Joe Kennedy bio before, but decided I wanted to own it. As for War Made Invisible, I'll certainly re-read it in a few years. The rest is an eclectic mix of bio, history, and how-to. I'm not big on fiction, aside from Jonathan Kellerman's stuff. I borrowed from the library his Open Season, which I'm reading now. 

Wider: I accidentally just saw Trump talking to reporters about the current slaughter in the Middle East. I was amazed at what a buffoon he is, but I understand why. It's for the same reason Zelensky always dresses as if he's about to go out and mow the lawn. The handlers want to show what regular guys they are, so they appeal to the hoi polloi--geez, I'd like to go out for a beer with them! Then they vote for their pals...

MONDAY, STELLA, ALPHONSE, LAPTOP, AND THE U.S. MAIL

After doing my usual morning rituals--top off blog, do Wordle, Connections, and Blossom, see email, read Pat R.'s blog, and go into Facebook, I was horrified that the screen just suddenly froze. I thought it must be the mouse, so changed the battery, but still nada. By that time, I had to leave for the bus, as I was meeting Stella at 11:00 at the mall. Off I went, only to find that the lunch at Casa de Soria had been cancelled; fine by me, as I wasn't really interested in buying into ambulance insurance. 

Before Stella got there, I had time to search out Alphonse, my pal from Fractured Actors, who works at Whole Foods. I asked if he had auditioned for the monologue show, but he hadn't, as he has an audition coming up shortly for a show in Santa Paula. Hope he gets in and I hope I can see it. Here's Alphonse, a neat guy:

It's hard to believe he's in his middle forties. He and Lindsay, also in F.A., are an item and have been so since they met at the last show I was in there. I told him to give her a kiss for me. 

Met up with Stella and we went to a restaurant called "Art's" for lunch. I had never been there before and I liked the place, except that Stella insisted on sitting inside and it was very crowded and very noisy. I finally asked to move to the patio, which we did; that was better, but still it was kind of hard to hear. In fact, hearing Stella is always a challenge. She simply doesn't speak loud enough, not does she enunciate well, so a whole lot of the time, I look at her intently, smile, nod, and laugh when she does, all while not understanding two words out of ten. 

Anyhoo, we had a good lunch, then she dropped me off at the transit center and I took the 6 home. As soon as I got in, I packed up my poor, ailing little laptop and took it over to Asurion. One of the guys took it in hand immediately and had it all better very shortly. It seems I had accidently pressed the F6 key on the top row of the laptop; it has an icon of a rectangle with a little line at the bottom--representing the screen, I guess. But why wouldn't the mouse work? Because the new battery had been put in backward (now, what idiot would do that😕)?  Anyway, my little darlin' is chugging away again and all is well. Speaking of little darlings, I called Ellen and caught up with her doings. She's still dealing with the highs and lows of moving into a new house, of course, but overall, things are going well. 

Ominous note: I called the Agency On Aging to report that my free tickets for the Access Van had not arrived. I was assured they had been sent on June 13, but I would have to wait until July to get ten more. (Actually, I use the Access Van only rarely, but still, I didn't want to lose the tickets.) Later, when I went out for the mail, there were the tickets. It took nine day to get here? I can walk there in twenty minutes. Incredible and I'm beginning to wonder if the empire is finally going down.   

Wider: https://scheerpost.com/2025/06/22/chris-hedges-war-with-iran/

From the article listed above: War opens a Pandora’s box of evils that once unleashed are beyond anyone’s control. The warmongers who ordered the strikes by U.S. bombers on Iranian nuclear sites have no more of a plan for what comes next in Iran than they had in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya or Syria. European allies, whom Israel and Trump have alienated with these air assaults, are in no mood to cooperate with Washington. 

SUNDAY AND AN AUDITION

 A full day. Showered and washed my hair before breakfast; ate, and did the crossword, which was again pretty obscure, although I got most of it. Through the day, I called these classmates (sister HSHSers): Pat Mooney, Jeanne Painter, and Mary Martin. I wanted to know if any of them knew Betty Downes' contact information, but none did, although Pat said she sees her in the supermarket. I want to express my condolences for the loss of her brother. It then occurred to me I could Message his daughter, Christina, which I did; haven't yet heard back from her.

Got an email from my tenant, Lori, about having ing the sprinklers turned back on. I couldn't remember who serviced it, so called Walter and Susan. It's Meticulous Lawn Care, so I'll get to them today. It was nice to touch base with Walter and Susan, too--they're my go-to couple when it comes to Sunrise Bay. 

I opened the door to check the weather and found the sunglasses I thought I had lost. I knew immediately what had happened: I had borrowed the larger cart to get my printer to Asunion, but then Ellen fixed it* and I accidentally left it in her cart. Good, I really like those sunglasses, although I have three other pair. When she opened the door, her brother, Glenn, came to it, also. I had forgotten that Suzanne said he would visit over the weekend; I met him before years ago. He's a family physician in San Diego, in his early sixties (Suzanne's the oldest of her sibs), and hey, easy on the eyes. 

There was some confusion with the Access Van. I had told them I wanted to be at the audition site at 3:00 (auditions were from 2 to 6), but there was a screw-up and I didn't get there until 3:30. Actually, that was no problem, as it wasn't by appointment. When I walked in, I saw Becky as greeter and we had a nice chat. 

I had been wondering if Jeff and/or Shannon would be in charge, but surprisingly, neither were. Instead, it was Erica and Brian (not a couple) and that was a pleasure to learn, as I like of them so much. Erica, who's only in her fifties, just had several hand joints replaced, as she had severe arthritis in them--they look good. 

Anyway, I did my monologue, "Heart's Desire," and it went well. It starts this way: I wanted to be a cowgirl/And live my life on the range/But my parents said that was silly/And my friends all thought it strange...and so on for fifteen verses. I wrote it years ago and forgot about it until now. I then did a somber one about living alone in a cabin. Actually, that isn't bad and it has a twist at the end. It's probably been ten years since I wrote that one. I then--just as a joke, mind you--asked if they wanted to  hear a very short one called "Thoughts On My Death." Sure they did and I gave them this: 

                                   How can it be/There's no more me?/It's a f---ing mystery!

And yes, I said the word and they howled. Naturally, it was my little joke and it won't be in the show. 

From there, I walked to the shopping center a few block away and got a pair of sneakers. Not sure if I'll keep them, but I'll walk on the carpet with them and see if they're  comfortable. Bused home and didn't get in until 5:30, but overall, it was a good day. 

* But horrors! After it printed two articles, it stopped again. Maybe I should just junk it and get a new one.  

SATURDAY

It was a quiet, but enjoyable day. I slept well, which I've been doing lately, and didn't get up until 6:15. Did the usual, then printed some interesting political articles I want to share with Jim and Noreen. I am so very grateful to Ellen, who fixed my printer; I'm not sure how she ferreted out what the problem was (creasing paper or something), but it's working like a charm now--yay! 

Did a large color wash and after putting it in the dryer, I called Muckie. We talked for more than an hour, mostly about our childhoods, good and not-so-good, the influence RC-ism had on us, and other such topics you can cover only with people who share a background. It was so fulfilling. 

Speaking of sharing, I was glad when my blogging buddy, Pat R., texted me asking if she could give a neighbor, who had known Betty, my phone number. Yes, indeed, and I'm looking forward to hearing from her. 

After I finished a few chores, I packed my lunch and left for town. It was crowded --it usually is on weekends--and that gave me a lift, especially as it was wonderfully bright and sunny. Stopped in a few shops; in one, I bought a pair of what we used to call "Bermudas," but I don't know what the current term is. Ate my lunch at my usual spot. 

Home, I made a reservation for the Access Van to pick me up today and take me to the Fractured Actors audition. I've been going over my "Heart's Desire" monologue verse and hope I can put it over properly. I may also use "Cabin," a much more somber verse. 

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞

Yesterday was my sixty-seventh wedding anniversary. Pat and I were married on June 21, 1958 and how long, long ago that seems. It also seems like yesterday. 

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞

Wider: This was on Instagram via Facebook and I think it's a mind-blowing reminder of just how much we're up against:  https://www.facebook.com/reel/764600295996233

FRIDAY AND WAR DEJA-VU

 At home, I gained 1.06 to 130, which was bad enough, but at T.O.P.S., I soared over my comfort zone to 131.3, having gained .06. Okay, now I'm going to buckle  down and fly right.  Leader Lennie is back from Greece, but the meeting was still a kind of meandering, here and there, this and that, only a fairly small portion of which concerned weight. Sharon outdid herself with this outfit: 

On the sides, her sneakers were edged with the same color blue as in her outfit. I truly wonder where she finds the room to store her clothes and especially her footwear, as so many match; I hate to think how much money she spends on them. Unfortunately, Sharon has great difficulty walking and uses a large walker; she's unable to get out of a car without help.  She has a number of other maladies, too, including diabetes and leg problems. To add to her problems, her husband, Lewis, might have some kind of brain problem, as he just had a PET Scan. They're good people, and I hate to see them failing. Sharon is, however, losing weight pretty steadily. 

Home at 10:00 and the rest of the day was very enjoyable. I had a light breakfast, then Vickie texted Suzanne and me, asking if we want kale.  Her friend has a garden and grew a lot of it. Hey, if it's green, I'll take it and Vickie brought some large bunches over. Of course, like spinach, kale cooks down a lot. I trimmed and washed the stuff, then stir=fried it with oil and garlic. Had a bit after and it was okay, although I prefer spinach. I do feel virtuous when I eat either, though, so I had the rest of it with dinner.

The fun part of the day started when Ellen came about 12:30. We chatted for a bit, then took off for Home Goods, newly opened in Ventura. This place is very large and carries all kinds of imported goods from, it seems, every country in the universe. El bought a few items for her new house, but I passed--just enjoyed looking around. 

We then went to Stone Fire Grille for lunch. I had a yummy salad--can't remember if it was Caesar or Cobb--and good talk, of course. After that , it was off to Lowe's, which is also an overwhelmingly large store. Ellen got a large number of items, including some hardware for her new bathrooms, curtain accessories, and lots of other stuff. I've been looking for flowers that can thrive in part sun, but I didn't see any I liked, so I'll go to Green Thumb sometime.

We were out until 5:15, then Ellen walked me to my door and we said goodbye. What a good, good day it had been and so what if I gained this week?

Today, I'm going to take some things to GoodWill to donate, then hopefully, stop at Green Thumb for clippers and, if I see what I like, perennials that aren't too fussy about sunshine. Tomorrow, I'm going to audition for the Monologue Revue that Fractured Actors is having in August. Must call the Access Van to get me there.   

WIDER:   https://scheerpost.com/2025/06/20/chris-hedges-war-deja-vu/ 

THURSDAY AND NAILS D'ELEGANCE

Kinda busy, although I spent the day in the general vicinity. Washed the sheets, changed the bed,  showered and washed my hair. After breakfast, I went over to Great Clips; Maria was busy, though, and I hadn't make an appointment, so said I'd be back. Crossed over o Nails D'Elegance for a pedicure. For some reason, they were jammed, so I had to wait about a half hour. Finally, I was taken and Lana started on my tootsies. I liked talking to her and, as I always do with these gals, told her I had been to Ho Che Minh City, and it turned out that's where she was born and brought up, so we had a good conversation. She also took out her phone and showed me pictures of her two-year-old granddaugher.* Darn, I had forgotten they don't take credit or debit cards, only cash and checks, so as I've done before, had to go over to the ATM at Von's.   

By the time I was finished, it was after twelve  and I went over to Great Clips. However, Maria, whom I favor, was at lunch, so I said I'd come back in twenty. I did, she was there, and did a great job on my hair and I gave her a generous tip. By that time, it was after 2;00 and I was starved. 

After stopping at Asurion ("UBreakIFix") to be sure they covered my printer, I rushed home, made a hard-boiled egg and tomato sandwich (I'm out of tuna salad), added an IPA, and took it and my book out to the middle to enjoy. When I got home, I saw Suzanne and asked to borrow her larger cart (which I had given her several years ago)--possibly, I can take the printer over today.  Ellen will be here and I hope we can manage together. 

I wrote up the T.O.P.S. minutes by hand and will tell the today that was my swan song--in other words, I'm not going to be recording the minutes any more. I have plenty of things going on and I have no interest in it. If nobody else will do it, tough--I really don't give a damn. T.O.P.S. today, then Ellen will be here and we'll go to Lowe's, other venues, and lunch--yay! 

*Things to remember: Lana said that Tuesdays and Wednesdays were the least busy, which was good to know. CASH OR CHECK ONLY! She works only from noon to 6:00--next time, make an appointment. They're no open on Sundays.  (Ironically, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are Maria's days off.) 

WEDNESDAY

A pretty lazy day. I didn't go out much except for taking my lunch to the middle and eating there. Not sure why, but I spent time doing more or less nothing--I took a nap and even watched T.V. in the daytime. A few things of interest happened, though:

1.) Ellen called twice and we made a date for her to come over tomorrow; she has various visits here and there, as she continues to get her new house in shape. She'll pick me up and we'll have lunch--yay!  She also texted me to say she can't find the house-warming check I gave her--no prob, I cancelled it and will give her another.

2.) Pat Kennedy Hayes (can't recall her current last name) called and we had a very pleasant, Ventnor/HSHS/present day talk. She's had some "issues," as the saying well, but on the brink of ninety, she's doing well, serves on several boards, and is active otherwise. She said she's going to call Muckie; think I'll do the same shortly.  

3.) Not nearly as welcome as the previous contacts, I received a text from Jimmy Downes' daughter, Christina, that he has died. I am so sorry and so shocked. I asked the cause and she said they didn't know, but possibly heat exhaustion, as he was found outside. Wow, this is so sad and so depressing. I knew he was having some kind of dementia, but didn't realize there was more to it. I called niece Carolyn to let her know; happily, things are going well for her and here family. Here are Jim, Betty, and me when he visited in September 2022:  

I called niece Carolyn to let her know and we had a nice virtual visit. 

UH-OH DEPARTMENT: I just put in a load of wash, looked at this laptop to see the time and was told it was  6:15. Oh, but wait--my phone alarm is set for 7:00 and it went off a few minutes ago and now says it's 7:04. I checked and all the other time pieces in the place do, too. so what fresh hell is this???*

WIDER: This is one of those "I could have written it" essays--so damn true, it hurts:

https://scheerpost.com/2025/06/19/the-american-game-playing-and-being-played-on-the-road-to-nuclear-war/

*A quote from Dorothy Parker, well known humorist of the twenties and thirties.

 

TUESDAY AND "WIDER" IS BACK.

As planned, Suzanne and I went to WinCo at 9:00. I stocked up on a lot of goodies, including some beautiful mushrooms and Fiji apples. Home, I just fussed around with this and that, then packed my lunch and took off for town. Ellen called while I was on the bus and we had a good mother/daughter chat (along with the other passengers, I guess, because I had it on speaker).  What we discussed was the new house and what she's done so far; can't wait to see it again. El also said she's be coming into Ventura to get some things at Lowe's, probably tomorrow--did I want to go? Sure thing.

Got off at my usual, stopped at the library, as I had on hold Jonathan Kellerman's new book Open Season . Went from there to several shops and picked up a few tops. At one, I fell into conversation with the young woman on the cash register--first initial "A," but I'll leave it at that. I don't really remember how, but somehow, we hit on the subject of the military. I expressed my pacifist views and to my pleased surprise, "A" mentioned that she agrees. I said I had kept this blog and she asked for the name; I also gave her my card.  Now it's occurred to me, though, that I haven't included a "Wider" section on my entries recently. That was a commentary on war, aggression, and the dreadful horrors inflicted on strangers simply because some politicians decide they deserve it. I'm still going to chronicle my daily activities, but starting today, I'm going to resume the "Wider" section at the bottom, every day or sporadically--haven't decided yet. (With "Wider," I try to suggest the idea of rejecting the narrow, state-supported propaganda surrounding militarism and committing to an expanded view that includes compassion for those threatened.) 

After my shopping and stroll down Main Street, I sat at my usual spot across from the mission and ate my lunch. It was a warm and sunny day, but with a lovely light breeze, so very enjoyable: 

But Peroni's is still closed--sob!

Earlier, I had washed, cored and seasoned four apples, and put them in the slow cooker for applesauce; when I got home, they were finished. After, I prepped a pound of fresh mushrooms and roasted them in the oven. Both were yum.  

WIDER: Now Iran is the enemy and we're going to shore up Israel with munitions, as well as lots of encouragement to have them slaughter those little brown people just as systematically as they do the Palestinians. I'm very  interested in what my hero, Chris Hedges, has to say about this and here's his early take on it:  https://www.counterpunch.org/2025/06/16/the-folly-of-the-us-israeli-war-on-iran/

MONDAY

 Did a beach wash during my shower, then had breakfast, which proves what an exciting life I lead. Later, I went over to CVS to pick up my medication, then Von's for IPA, then had lunch in the middle of the complex. 

My brother, Larry, called and we had a good talk. Last time we did, a few weeks ago, he said he used a cane, even in the house; yesterday, he told me it's a walker now. I guess that's a common progression, but it was a little unsettling to hear that.  Stella texted to see if I wanted to meet at that free lunch by the ambulance company next Monday and I accepted. 

Left for the Stone Fire Grille and dinner with Soaring Spirits buds at 4:00, when I walked to Telephone Road to get the 11 bus. We don't meet until 6:00, but it takes me almost that long to get there. I had a half-hour or so to spare, so stopped at Barnes & Noble to look around, as I still haven't used the gift card I was given for Mothers' Day. Didn't find anything I needed, but will look again.

Got to our stompin' grounds--I mean dinner place--to find only Vera, Grendel, and Susan there. It's unusual to have only four, but I know some are on vacation and one is in the hospital. Actually, it was enjoyable for a change to be able to talk so closely. Susan and I had a long conversation about a lot of topics, including the Bible (she's somewhat of a Christian fundamentalist, but not in a disapproving sense); Trump, homosexuality, and other interesting subjects. Vera took me home, as ever, and I got in a bit before 8:00.

While I was at dinner, Suzanne texted me, asking if I wanted to go to WinCo today and yes, I do. When she takes me, I can stock up on bigger and/or heavier items when I have a ride, so I'm grateful for that. Rang her bell when I got home to tell her and we'll leave at 9:00.; it's 6:00 as I write. 

Note: Happily--and strangely--my printer is now working again: I unplugged it, then plugged it back in, turned it on, and was able to print another Chris Hedges article. Have to change the black ink, but I think I'm good to go after that. 

SUNDAY

Did the usual Sunday things: medication, crossword (not good), and breakfast. I just fussed around after until it was time to got the Vickie's at 1:00 for the last production of the play festival. This was probably the best yet; it entailed a part organic, part manufactured entity--that is, human and robotic:

The usual question and answer session followed and I asked each of the actors to say a few sentences about how they prepared for their roles. After, we went to Spring Garden (Chinese) for an early dinner, and had a long, long talk on various matters, including Vickie's personal life and her relationship with her sister. We lingered for close to two hours and I felt closer to her than ever. 

Home about 8:00 and I got a message from Mike that he and Vivian had just left for London. It's a work trip for him, just a little sojourn for her; she'll return to U. of Hawaii after.

Since I was busily engaged for the last four days, I'm going to catch up with various today, I hope. I also have dinner with the Soaring Spirits gang at 6:00 which, as ever, should be fun.

I had sent away for another of those videos made from a still photo, this one of us at a party in Boca Raton (Fla.) almost seventy years ago--at lower left is Pat and me, Bobo Burke next to him, his parents and brother across the table, along with other Boca Raton Club employees: 

Unfortunately, I can't seem to bring the video up.  Will  keep trying.

So annoyingly, my printer is again out of commission. It had revived after the paper jam, I printed out another Chris Hedges piece, now it's telling me to check the manual. Machines and I had never had a good relationship and this is beyond infuriating--damn!  

SATURDAY

Did a few household chores and neatened up a bit. Vickie came over and we discussed our plans for the evening. She wasn't sure if she would go to the music performance before the play; if so, I'd be dropped off at the museum between six and six-thirty and meet her there. If not, I'd simply go with her. As it turned out, I was dropped off, and met her there. Took a walk upward, then stopped at Von's for spinach. After  leftover pizza for lunch, I got ready to go.

Met Vickie at the museum and we settled in to see the third play in the series. Actually, I found this considerably more engaging than the Friday night one. Vickie had saved us the same seats we had had: two from the aisle in the second row and they were excellent. BTW, here's a pic of Vickie and me at the festival: 

The mural in the back of the room:

The cast of last night's play; writer in the middle:

As seen, it was a bare stage and, as I mentioned before, "readers' theatre," that is, the actors stood at podiums (one for each actor) and read from loose leaf books. However, they were so good, that wasn't a deterrent to enjoying the show. I'll try to remember to take a pic during the actual performance today.

Anyway, home at almost 10:00 and again, stayed up until after eleven (can't believe it!), then we have one more show today. We're going to the afternoon (2:00 pm) performance, so I'll be at Vickie's at 1:00. After, we plan to go out to dinner. 

FRIDAY

Weight:  At home, I was down a mere nothing--.06 to 129.6 and at T.O.P.S.? Why, that was a real nothing, because the place was locked up and we couldn't get in! Only the diehards, Cheryl, Sharon,  and Mimi were there, but of course, there was no meeting no even a weigh-in, since the scale is kept in a closet inside. Damnit, I expressed my annoyance to the other two: Why couldn't Lennie, our so-called leader, now on a four-week trip to Greece and elsewhere, have gotten information beforehand as to why the place is closed and/on give somebody the key, which she has? Dunno, but we left, not in the best of moods. 

Home, had breakfast and spent a fair amount of time on the phone and here's the roundup:  

Vickie called and we settled that she'd go out for pizza, I'd come over there about 5:30, then we'd go to the play festival.

I called Nancy P. and we had a long, long talk; she's doing okay, but is having a problem with a crown; said she'd call me soon and we'd meet at The Cave for lunch when that's resolved.

Noreen called to thank me for sending her Chris Hedges' piece on the group of idiots steering the country to its end. 

Stella called to ask if I wanted to go to a sales lunch next Monday or Tuesday; I'll look into it and see. 

I called Jeanne P., my old HSHS classmate, to comment on the pictures she sent of her granddaughter's marriage. I sent back "congratulations to the bride and bride."

Aside from those chats, I walked over to CVS because I thought they had texted me that one of my medications had come in. No, it hadn't and when I looked again, I saw the text just said it would come in a few days--why would they bother telling me that?

Took a short nap, then changed to get ready for the play festival. Went over to Vickie's at 5:30 for a dinner of pizza and good talk, then we took off for the museum. Here's Vickie and one of the walking dead at intermission: 

                                  

Vickie took a better picture of the corpse after:

The play was fair, I think, but only fair. It was readers' theatre, i.e., the actors, three women and three men, read from scripts, but with full expression, gestures, and so on,  in British accents.  Clearly, they were AE* professionals. There was no set, but simply six chairs and microphones. After, three of the actor and the writer returned to the stage and responded to questions: 

                                    I didn't ask any, as I really couldn't think of anything to ask. 

Didn't get home until--gasp!--almost ten and I actually stayed up for another 45--I'm living a wild life! Tonight and tomorrow afternoon, we'll attend two more plays and I'm looking forward to them.

A Note From Modern Life: On May 17, I mailed something to son Mike, who lives in Singapore.  It was in just an ordinary, business-sized envelope and required only one overseas stamp. Mike just Messaged me that it arrived yesterday, almost a full month later.  That's a good indication of the sorry mess the U.S. Mail, which used to be considered one of the best and most reliable in the world. That's Modern Life now, I guess...sigh... 

*Actors Equity

THURSDAY

Took the 16 bus*, where I chatted with an acquaintance** to Ojai and was met at a nearby stop about noon. It was an easy walk to Ellen's new place, which has a nice clubhouse: 

Her house is round around the corner. I didn't take any pictures inside (will when her furniture and so on is set up), but I love it! It's remarkably spacious and the kitchen is to die for. It has a large primary bedroom with very large bath, a guest bedroom and bath, laundry room, and a very large living room,  lovely side porch, and a lot more.  

During the afternoon, we went to the clubhouse, which is also  large and has a kind of ballroom, a kitchen, a huge exercise area, a library, pool, and spa, as well as a number of other amenities. We had a great time exploring, then went back to El's to talk, laugh, have lunch, and generally enjoy ourselves. 

For dinner, Ellen ordered from The Hip Vegan (yes, vegan meals are delicious) and  Greg picked them up after work and joined us. It's always a pleasure to see him and, of course, he's been very helpful to Ellen, as ever. The Access Van picked me up at 7:00 and took me home after a wonderfully enjoyable day. 

*A snag: While I was traveling to Ojai, Vickie called to remind me of the short plays we were going to at the Ventura Museum. When? Why, Thursday at 7:00--AAGH! I had completely forgotten about that and apologized all over the map. She was okay with it, but later, I realized we're also supposed to go tonight, plus Saturday and Sunday, and I have plans. Texted Vickie and she'll call me today so we can figure this out.

** On the bus, I met a woman named Dawn, whom I had chatted with before. She's a musician and sings often in Ojai. As it turned out, Greg knows her, also. I liked her--very bright, interesting, and well-spoken, so I gave her my card and asked her to get in touch. When I mentioned this at Ellen's, it turned out the Greg knows her, also; I'll be looking forward to hearing from her. 

WEDNESDAY

I spent most of the morning dry- and wet-moping the hard floors, cleaning the sink, tub, and toilet, washing the bathtub mat and area rugs, and otherwise getting that area shipshape. A disconcerting thing happened while I was doing that, though: I use the Bona floor system, recommended for the hard floors here and it comes very conveniently in a spray container. I had just sprayed, then put the bottle down to do something, but when I picked it up again, I sprayed the wrong way, right into my eyes. I immediately flushed them out with water, then called the ophthalmologist to ask about it. Of course, they wouldn't tell me anything over the phone, although I argued. Damn, I wasn't going to stop what I was doing, take two buses and spend most of the day going there, especially as my eyes didn't blur or sting at all. In the meantime, I called the company and, as I had noted myself, there should be no problem at all, as all the ingredients are plant-based. Now, as I write this at 5:34 am on Thursday, my eyes are okay. 

While the floors dried, I went over to Von's for bread, wine (I'm still wondering if Jim might possibly be allowed to have just a little), and other items. I then packed my lunch and took it with my book out to the middle to eat. Since it was a weekday afternoon, it was very quiet--all were at work or otherwise engaged and I enjoyed eating and reading peacefully out near the pool. 

Took a short walk around the complex, as I hadn't gotten any exercise in. For dinner, I enjoyed salmon, roasted carrots, and broccoli, which was delish. Showered and washed my hair and remarkably, it looks pretty good this morning. (It's much too long, though, and I want to try a new hairdresser soon.)  Called the Access Van to pick me up from El's at 7:00 tonight, took an hour's nap, rearranged some of the freezer, and took a short walk around the complex settling in for the night. 

TUESDAY

A pretty good day, except that I ran into problems with the Access Van's late arrival to take me to see Jim. I won't go into detail, but it was annoying. While I waited, Vickie's friend, Kate, came walking up and we chatted. She's having trouble with her neighbors upstairs, along with other problems and I commiserated with her. I got to the care center about 3:30 when Jim was about to have dinner. Dinner at 3:30? Yes, they have an odd meal schedule, with breakfast at 10:30, but they supplement it with snacks and so on, I understand.

Jim and I sat in the living room while he ate chicken noodle soup and, as ever, we covered a range of topics, with me doing most of the talking. However,  he contributed and it was interesting. We talked about his condition (what is it?), Donald Trump (boo, boo, and AAGH!), and the condition of the country. I told him about one of my favorite non-major media figures, Chris Hedges  and will send him Chris' latest article--on our current rule of idiots--as soon as I get my printer fixed:                                  https://chrishedges.substack.com/p/the-rule-of-idiots

 As I was about to leave, Jim expressed how much he enjoyed seeing me--considering his usual silent stoicism, this was practically a bear hug. As I waited for my ride outside, I fell into conversation with one of the aides, John. He's Filipino and his English is a little hard to follow, but we had nice talk. I was interested to hear that he mentioned Jim's power of attorney and I recognized the name, which Jim had mentioned. Hmm...the more I wonder about Jim's situation--and the whereabouts of his possessions--the more puzzled I get. The other aide is Fernando, who seems a nice guy, too, although his English is also a tad--well, problematic. 

 The Access Van arrived at 5:00 to take me home and I was pleased to see the driver was Eric, a neat guy who had picked me up before. Eric is about 30, I guess, and works full-time, but goes to Ventura College, also. (I know too well how that works--it took me 23 years to get my B.A.). BTW, that's where Jim taught philosophy for fifty years. 

I was starved when I got home--I had had very little for lunch and next time, I'll bring mine and eat with Jim--so ate soon after I got home. I had a pizza in the freezer and had bought a pizza cutter months ago, so finally got to use it. Tasted great.

This morning, I put the bath mat and bath rugs in the wash and I want to mop the floors and clean the bathroom after breakfast. Then I'll decide where I want to go today: to town and the library, where I have Jonathan Kellerman's new book, Open Season, on hold or to Ralph's shopping center and eat lunch at the fountain? Dunno yet...

MONDAY

A frustrating morning: 

1.My printer is still impaired with a paper jam and oh, yes, I've tried to retrieve the stuck paper, but I'm able to grasp so little, it's impossible to get it out. I feel like chucking the thing and buying a new one. But maybe I can pay somebody to come over and fix it--mulling it over. 

2. Got a communication the other day from Orchid Insurance via Maureen, the agent for its subsidiary, Groendyke, that I needed to electronically sign a renewal paper within 24 hours. (I wasn't late or anything, as this is standard, but the 24-hour thing made me nervous.)  It took a few days to get here, I signed it, but then didn't know how to submit it. Called both Maureen and Orchid and finally was told it was there. This kind of thing just gets to me!

3. Sent an email to a listed contact for the Sisters of St. Joseph with the picture of Non-Nun Mom, but had a problem pulling up the site I had seen before. 

Hmm...that's only three items, but it seemed like twenty! However, things improved later. I called the Access Van and they'll pick me up to visit Jim today. I want to try to ask Victor for some information, notably who is called in case of an emergency for Jim and who's paying for his care. If he can't tell me for privacy reasons, I'll ask if I can pursue it further.

Packed my lunch and walked to Telephone Road to catch the 11 bus to Petit Avenue. There, I exchanged a top I had bought for a pretty lilac one. Also, I went next door to Grocery Outlet for some nice salmon, tomatoes, and several other things. Got the 11 back, but got off at Hill Street and walked home. That added up to roughly four miles and, especially because of the high overpass, it's a hike. Didn't get lunch until 3:30, ate it at my leisure, then took an hour nap. I'm beginning to think this is a good new routine for me, although I was leery about it before. With a nap, I can stay up later (until 10:00 or 10:30), get up later (I slept until 7:00 yesterday and 6: 15 today. I seem to have more energy after, too.

Suzanne texted Vickie and me, asking how we liked the Improv show Friday night. Vickie and I both answered with raves and I suggested we make it a regular once-a-month thing. Hope that works, although Vickie won't be here part of July and August, as she's going to Maine for her FIFTIETH high school reunion--boy, she must be ancient!

As for me, mine was seventy-one years ago this month😲. Here's my fiftieth: 

George Wimberg is in the front, sixth from left, and I'm directly behind him.