THURSDAY

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

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

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

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

Home after and I just played some computer games. 

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

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

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TUESDAY EVENING AND WEDNESDAY

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

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

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

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

Below: part of the mission there:

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

And here I am with three of them:

Below is the rustic cemetery at the mission: 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

TUESDAY

 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!

NOTE to readers (if there are any--HA!)

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! 

MONDAY, CHORES, AND SETH

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.  

SUNDAY WITH NOREEN

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. 

SATURDAY WITH TWO FADING JIMS

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:

In fact, I'm not sure he remembered Betty--or me, for that matter. He didn't call me "Arty," Betty's and his nickname for me in the olden days, and while he seemed engaged, he asked no questions. Anyway, we spoke for just five minutes or so, and I said to keep in touch and I'll do the same. After, I texted his daughter to tell her of the call and to thank her again. She responded that Jim also has what she called "a home phone" (a landline, that is) and he might answer that if I called. She gave me the number and I'll use it in a few weeks to touch base with Jim again. 

As for the other Jim: The Access Van picked me up and I got to his residence before noon. I gave Celeste the girl scout cookies I had bought, thinking her charges would enjoy them. Jim had already ad lunch and was in bed when I came in, although he assured me he wasn't about to nap; said he "wasn't allowed" to walk, although I doubt if that's so. However, he was in pretty good shape mentally; we had a conversation that was intelligible, ranging over his experiences, present-day and as a child, when he went to New York with his mother. He said his friend, Roy, had been to see him and also his friend, George. I asked Jim about his weight and was happy to hear he had gained some. At one point, Victor, the proprietor, came in and gave me a cold bottle of Lipton iced tea--so nice of him. 

So I stayed about forty minutes, but by then, I was hungry, plus there wasn't too much else to talk about, so I said goodbye, assuring Jim I'd come back. I knew the Access Van wouldn't be back to pick up for at least 45 minutes, so I asked Victor if I could eat my lunch. Sure, and he showed me to the atrium, a very nice area with a table and chairs. I ate my sandwich and drank my IPA (I took the iced tea home) and greatly enjoyed it. After that, I waited out front where there's a covered veranda and a comfortable bench. Talked to the helper, Marvin, who was watering the lawn. He's from the Philippines--speaks accented, but good English.  The more I see of Granny's Care Center, the more I like it (aside from the odious name). 

Got home after 2:00 and called Lorraine to meet me so I could give her the lemon she had asked me for. Did so, then went over to Von's for plant milk and peas. Later, Mike called/facetimed me; he got back from Vietnam late Thursday. He said my great-nephew, Cameron, was over for dinner the other night and he and Violet got along fine. Cameron is now visiting a friend in Thailand. (Hmm...when I was twenty, I was lucky to get to Malvern, Pa.) 

Lunch with Noreen today and I'm looking forward to that. 

FRIDAY

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.

THURSDAY

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.   

WEDNESDAY

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.

TUESDAY

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. 

MONDAY WITH NANCY, VERA, VICKIE, AND ESMERALDA

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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SUNDAY

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:

El took videos of a soaring eagle--which I couldn't see at all.

We walked a bit more than a mile, I think, than it was back to El's and games of Blockus (I lost abysmally) and gin rummy. The final score isn't in yet, as the Access Van was due and we hadn't figured it. El said she'd total it up, but can I trust her to give credit where it's due??? I'm not so sure!*

Just kidding, of course. Anyway, I was delighted when El asked if I wanted to get together with her on Tuesday to go to Grocery Outlet, plus take me to GoodWill to donate more items. Sure thing and we'll have lunch here beforehand. 

Access Van picked me up shortly after 5:00; the driver was Eric, whom I've had before and like a lot. He's a non-traditional student, as I was (he's in his thirties) and goes to Ventura College. In the fall he'll enter another college to work toward his bachelor' degree; major is computer science. It was fun talking to him.

*Oh, yeah, sure, naturally: El texted later to say she had won by a hundred or so. Wrote back I'd be gunning for her next time.

SATURDAY

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. 

Friday

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:

Think I'll add it to the little gift I'm giving Diane; she'll get a kick out of it. 

For a change, I skipped my usual oatmeal for breakfast and made myself scrambled eggs and toast--tasted good for a change. I contacted Canon, as I had gotten an email to the effect the printer ink I had ordered had been delivered. It hadn't and they agreed to send another.  It was a little chilly and windy to eat outside, but I packed my lunch, figuring I'd eat at the mall. I first walked to the P.O. to mail off Mike's packet, then bused there. 

At Target, I found the pretzels Mike wants me to send over for Violet: 

Good grief, I'm going to have to figure a way to package them--AND I'm wondering if sending food through the U.S. mail is allowed. Guess I'll find out.  

I really wasn't hungry by the time I finished, as I had had breakfast so late, so I bused home and ate lunch there. By that time, it was 3:30, but that was okay. Took a 45-minute nap after.

I got this darling Valentine card from the Tokyo trio (names obscured) and enjoyed the jokey phrase. Yes, I got it: chocolate is soon gone, but our wishes persist.

THURSDAY

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.

WEDNESDAY

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.

 

TUESDAY

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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Monday

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. 

SUNDAY

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:

Because of my malady, El decided I ran the risk of becoming dehydrated, so she insisted I take these. I started right away on the one of the left; will address the other today. We discussed whether she should take me to Urgent Care and/or I should call the doctor today. I'll see how I feel.

El had brought her salad and also some almond butter for me, which I spread on bread. Not bad. We chatted  over lunch, then settled down to face off once again over what else? A deck of cards and El  beat me so resoundingly I may never recover. However, it was, as ever, much fun.

She invited me to go to her place on Wednesday, which I'll be pleased to do. I may take the Access Van or the bus--we'll see. I hope Greg might be available some of the time--hope so, I haven't seen him for a month of more.

I ordered Calcium Citrate Complex through Amazon; CVS doesn't seem to have it; in fact, never heard of it. Also ordered printer ink and the two newest issues of Penny Presses' Crypto Families, my favorite puzzle game. 

Took a short nap after Ellen left, then had just a small dinner of spinach and roasted tomatoes. For some reason, I was very tired and went to bed early, sleeping through the night. I'm now going to look up symptoms of IBS, because my problem seems to be swinging both ways now. 

SATURDAY

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: 

This time, her top matches the handbag (really more like a satchel) with the same print. I never fial to marvel at how much she spends on clothes, considering they're far from wealthy. Oh, well, it make her happy, I guess.

Got a darling Happy New Year card from nephew, Tim, and his family: 

As Tim remarked, better late than you-know-what. The youngest child of my sister, Gene's six, he's one of the older new-fathers in my extended family. He was fifty-one when his first and only was born. Of course, nobody has beaten my older son's record at this point: His boy is eleven and he's sixty-five. 

Feeling better, but still not up to par. 

FRIDAY

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. 

THURSDAY

 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.

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Mike and his lady friend in China--just thought I'd throw it in here.

WEDNESDAY

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: 

That bag on the right is full of DVDs and the box includes a small ice bucket, several books, and some kitchenware, as well as other stuff.

We had lunch here first (Ellen had brought her own)_, then went to the post office to send a package. From there, we drove to GoodWill to drop off the priceless possessions that had been mine. There was a delay in taking them in, so we went to the shop there. I bought flannel pajamas ($3.99) and a crystal wine stopper as a new-apartment gift for Diane ($6.99). I'll wrap it up in fancy packaging, add a card, and I know she'll like it.

After, we went back to my place and had our usual cutthroat game of gin. I won, as usual, because I just happen to be a superior player, but Ellen insists it was because I sat the power seat 😜. After a fun day, we said goodbye a little before 5:00.   

After dinner, I called Jim's friend and former student, Roy S., who had called me a month or so ago to get Jim's contact info.  I wanted to know if he saw Jim or got in touch with him. When he called me back, he said he had, indeed, and had gone to see him twice. I had thought Roy was an adult student of Jim's, but no--Roy had been in his class as a young guy in the seventies or eighties. Out of high school, he took a few courses at the community college where Jim taught, then entered U.C.L.A. Roy is now retired--he had been an auditor for an insurance company (even so, I thought he was a nice guy 😆 ).

We discussed Jim's fragility and mental decline, but agreed he was in a good place now.  We had a good talk and when I mentioned I don't drive, he was kind enough to say he'd take me home if I can get there (easy with the Access Van). Anyway, we agreed I'd call him next week and we'd decide on a good day to visit. I was very interested in the fact that he had heard of George, Jim's friend who collects his mail. Now I'm not sure if he's some kind of accountant or what. Anyway, I'm looking forward to meeting Roy.

TUESDAY

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:

 

That reminds me to get my V. cards in the mail. Also, I want to get Diane and little apartment-warming gift--two bedrooms, wow!

MONDAY

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. 

SUNDAY

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:

At the end of the road, above the people walking is a pretty steep zigzag path up to the top. Ellen went, but I didn't--just lost my nerve. We then went back to El's and chatted for a bit. The plan is for her to come over here on Wednesday, bringing her lunch. She'll load up her car with my GoodWill donations, drop them off, then lunch at Kimball Park. 

I left El's after 5:30, was driven to the bus stop, and boarded it for home. On the way, there were several lovely "pink moments" with the sunset. This doesn't do justice to the beauty of it, it's just an indication:

Didn't arrive home until almost 7:00, as there was a twenty-minute layover at the transit center. I've got some business calls to make today and tomorrow, will go to Diane's to see her new digs. 

SATURDAY

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!

FRIDAY

Weight: At home, I was up a pound to 130, at T.O.P.S. up 1.7 to 131.1--AAGH! That means I moved past comfort zone of 125 to 130, so this is serious. A major problem is that it's been chilly and I haven't felt much like walking outside. Yesterday, it got down to the low fifties, practically freezing! (Guess I've turning into a delicate California girl.)

Got a call from Julie, asking if I wanted to go to the BCNN meeting on Wednesday--yep and she'll pick me up at 9:00. Also got a call from Stella. I had forgotten we had discussed the Ventura Parks & Recreation bus trip to San Luis Obispo on February 11. I must call on Monday because there's a waiting list; hope I got in--or on.

Spent the entire morning on one of the hall closets where I keep linens and some other stuff. It's hard to believe how many cloth napkins (as a rule, I don't use paper ones), placemats,  kitchen towels, tablecloths--and that was just one shelf. I tackled the bath towels and wash cloths one, too, plus the sheets and pillowcases one, clearing out a lot to donate and rearranging the rest. And this is only the bath linen pile: 

Called SCAN to ask about a benefit of $150 for dental that I didn't even realize I had. Later: I was on the phone with SCAN from 5:00 pm to 5:30, trying to get my OTC balance. I won't go into why, but I called again because I had gotten conflicting information. The second person kept repeating what my benefit is--I know what it is, I wanted my balance. I guess I'll just have to go to CVS and see. 

Slept well, but this seems to be a pattern: alternating good sleep one night and not the next. Guess it's better than consistent sleeplessness.  

Note: I have no idea why the spacing is so skewed at the top. Tried to fix it and it didn't work.