SATURDAY

Neat day. I took the 10, then the 16 to Ojai, then was picked up and transported to Ojai. We soon left for Santa Barbara on a spectacularly lovely day; driving the Pacific Coast Highway was a joy. The sky was blue, the ocean was calm as a lake, and the traffic was bearable.  Arrived in Santa Barbra and to the Petit Valantien. Interestingly, French food is served on week days, Ethiopian fare on weekends. Greg told us the owner is Ethiopian and her husband French, which--I guess--explained it. Greg has eaten here many times and often took his mother. 

It probably goes without saying that I had never had Ethiopian food before. The menu is limited, but we all liked it. I had the luncheon platter, which consists of an entree of beef, chicken, or fish, and two vegetables. It's funny that the kind of fish was listed in Ethiopian, but the English words under it were simply "sauté fish," not "sautéed," and it didn't say what kind of fish.  Anyway, it was good and we all enjoyed it.  Here are Greg and Ellen: 

 Below: note the Ethiopian bread, which is both rolled and under the entree: 

Top is the rolled bread and see the kind of spongy texture under the meal. Anyway, it was yum.

We then drove to the harbor and walked the mile or so along it. While there, I got a call from my brother, Larry and his gang--three of his seven, that is. There were concerned about our safety and it was fun talking to them.

There were lots of people at the harbor enjoying the lovely weather and scenery. We stayed for two hours or so, then drove to Chaucer's books, where Ellen had a gift certificate waiting for me. We browsed for another hour, at least, and I bought three, all true crime, including one on Jeffrey Epstein (never in a million years would I believe he killed himself). 

From there to my place, and we spent some time on unpacking and demonstrating the use of my new canes.  I'm still resisting, but will try to get used to the idea. Said goodbye and I know I'll see my fam and Greg (I think of him as family, also) again soon. 

I got an text invitation for my cousin, Sally's, ninetieth birthday party next Saturday in San Diego. It was send by her son, Duane, and darn, I'd love to go, but am not sure if I can swing it, but I'm definitely leaning toward it. Told Duane I'd let him know on Monday. Coincidentally, Sally herself called me a few hours later to check if the fire was anywhere near. We chatted, but I didn't mention the party, as it's to be a surprise. 

Shortly before dinner, Jeanne Painter called, also asking about the fire. We had a long talk, as we frequently do, after I assured her we were safe and likely to remain so. 

Lib lunch with Diane today--can't wait to show her my red cane!