TUESDAY AT JIM'S

Via the Access Van, I got to Granny's Home Center (that name--AAGH!) to see Jim at noon. Gave Celeste the chocolate chip cookies and Victor took me in to Jim's room. I showed him the two small bundt cakes and Victor said he'd be served them for dessert at dinner. I was so pleased to learn that birthday had been celebrated (at lunch) and Victor shared a photo with me (not sure why the other resident is missing):

Close up:

Jim was in pretty good form (for Jim, of course) and I was there about an hour. I was pleased to hear back from his friend, Roy, that he would visit later in the afternoon. I had brought the brochure of Ellen's house and he was interested--remmbered when he had been there, asked questions, and remarked on how nice the house is. As he has been every time I've visited, he was in bed. I asked him about that and he said he wanted to walk. Knowing Jim, I think he's too passive to tell Victor that, although there's a wheel chair and walker in his room. I'm not sure if there's any kind of regular p.t. or not, but I don't think so. I also don't think--although I'm not sure--he has any illness or condition that would preclude his walking, but do doctors or nurses ever examine him? Not sure. Think I'll look into this and maybe consult the agency on aging. Anyway, it was an enjoyable visit. Access Van picked me up at 1:30 and dropped me off twenty minutes later. 

Instead of going back to my apartment, I went to the office to ask about my lease. My tenant, Lori, had emailed me about her lease, which is up tomorrow, April 30. My lease was up in February and I've been month-to-month since. Rents are invaiably raised every year and I asked when the new owners would notify renters about that. Libby in the office didn't know, but I found the law says rents can go up no more than 8.7 percent a year. Okay, I'll figure that out and address the issue with Lori.

I had packed my lunch, so settled into the middle and called Lorraine to see if she wanted to sit with me while I ate it. She did and came over, chattering away as ever. Home and--unusual for me--I turned on the television to watch for a time, then took a short nap. 

Unfortunatly, I just got up with classic symptoms: runny nose, cough, sneezing--I have a cold! (Yes, I'll test for COVID, but that wouldn't make any difference in my reaction). I happened ot have some Theraflu, so I just prepared that and am sipping it, as instructed. Darn, I was expecting Ellen over and we'd go to lunch, but I'd better call her and hold off. 

MONDAY

Washed the sheets early, so they'd be ready for the dryer by the time I had breakfast, so changed the bed.

Called Jim at 10:30 and was surprised when he told me he was having lunch; breakfast is at 7:30 and dinner is at 3:30. Okay, those must be good times for them to eat and I assume they can snack or something at night. Told him I was bringing chocolate chip cookies and I'd be there about noon. Actually, it may be earlier--when I called the Access Van, I got a pick-up time of 11:00 to 11:30. The return trip is scheduled for 11:20 to 11:50. I also increased my balance. 

Incidentally, Jim sounded good on the phone and he was pleased to hear I'd be visiting. I had texted his friend, Roy, about his birthday, but haven't heard back from him. I'm debating with myself whether to get Jim some little present or other, but I think I might just go with the cookies.

I'm still having problems with Cricket and Bank of America, so I just authorized the payment again. I wish I could just pay automatically, as I do most same-monthly-payment bills, but for some reason, that doesn't seem to be possible. I called T.O.P.S. and charged to my debit card the yearly renewal fee of $48.00. Is it worth it? Hmm...the jury's still out on that.

Packed my lunch, took my cart, and walked to Ralph's. Again, the weather was right down my alley: sunny, in the upper sixties, and with only a mild breeze. Got shredded cheese and a few other things, then had my lunch in my favored spot by the fountain. Took the 6 bus home, stopping at Von't for plant milk and issues. 

After I showered and washed my hair, I settled into watching television. I'm into the royals--of the U.K., of course, but now am getting bored with them I miss Frasier!

SUNDAY AT HOME

It was quiet, but not a bad day. Julie called and we'll go to Santa Paula Theatre for "The Cottage" next Saturday. She suggested we go to dinner first, and would I say no? That should be fun, although I'm on docent duty the next day, so I think I'll nap earlier on Saturday.

I was happy to get a call from Lora and we talked and talked. She went into some detail about her son's death and I was glad of that. Not only did I want to understand the whole scenario, but I know she needs to talk about it--I understand that completely. She also invited me to come visit her in Arizona--"you and your daughter"--and boy, I'd love to. We'll see--maybe.

Ellen called and we brought each other up to date. As Jim's birthday is tomorrow and she isn't available then, we had tentatively planned on seeing him on Wednesday, but she has a doctor's appointment and it would have had to be squeezed in. Instead, we decided I'd get the Access Van for tomorrow and we'll just meet for lunch on Wednesday.

Went over to Von's for paper towels and veggies. I then packed my lunch and my book and went out to the middle to enjoy it.  By that time, it was two o'clock and it was very quiet--reasonably warm, a little breezy, but with the glorious sun:

Did some household chores, then planted the pretty yellow tulips El had given me for Easter. After a color wash, I made a turkey stir-fry; had a third for dinner and froze the rest for two more meals.

I toyed with the idea of calling somebody to meet for lunch today, but decided against it. I think I'll just play it by ear--maybe walk down to Smart 'N' Final or bus to town--whatever. 

Note: The Sunday crossword was a stinker--obscure references which annoyed me no end. However, I got most of it.  

SATURDAY, NOREEN, AND SCRAPPLE

I sent Ellen a reminder about Jim's birthday on Tuesday, but she may not be able to take me to see him then. She suggested we go on Wednesday, which is all right with me, but I may have something planned with Julie that day--I'll check. 

As planned, I met Noreen at Dargan's at 12:30. We had a good, long conversation, delving often into family matters. Ours differ, as I have a big birth family and humongous extended one; Noreen had only a brother, although she has a son, daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter. Our upbringing differed, too, as hers was Baptist, mine, of course, R.C.

My Reuban was good, by maybe not as good as East Coast ones. Of course, I had my fav, a hazy IPA, with it. As we talked about our childhoods and so on, I mentioned how Pat, my husband, liked scrapple. I was amazed and amused that Noreen didn't know what that was! Geez, how can you have a full life without scrapple? We had a good laugh about that, too.

We said goodbye about 3:00 and I bused home. I quickly signed a birthday card for Jim and sent it off at the mail place. I want him to get it on Tuesday, although for all I know, he won't remember it's his birthday, anyway. 

I also--and I don't know if I'll follow through with this--found a recipe on-line for scrapple. In place of pork scraps (ugh!), it calls for sausage that you cook and crumple. It actually looks pretty easy, so I may make it sometime--intriguing. 

Was home by 4:15 or so, in time--I hope--to beat the mail pickup, so I quickly filled out and sent a birthday card to Jim. I haven't yet heard back from Julie about going to "The Cottage," not sure why.

FRIDAY

T.O.P.S.: I was sure I had gained, considering I went out for lunch or dinner the last five days, but no--I actually lost. It was miniscule, but I was down .02 (to 128.4) at home and .03 (to 129.1) at the meeting--still a little too cost to 130, but okay. There were only four of us, besides Cheryl and me, the other constants, Lennie and Sharon. Cheryl proposed that we take from a suggestion to record our progress--or lack thereof--on a page from T.O.P.S. magazine, which features little fish. Cute idea and we'll do it.

Home about 10:00, had breakfast and annoyingly, I seem to have developed a sore throat. Took some meds, had breakfast, then took a brief nap. Did a few household chores, then walked to the P.O. to mail my ex-DIL some mail. I had packed my lunch, so went from there to the middle of the complex and ate it, while continue to read the nefarious exploits of the Kennedys, Joe and Jack.

Made an appointment with Motor Vehicle to get a new I.D., as I somehow lost my other one. Tried to reach T.O.P.S. headquarters so I could renew my membership by paying on-line, but I never got them. guess I'll just send a check.

Son Mike Facetimed me at 6:00 and we had a good talk. He'll be leaving, once again, for China shortly. This time, he'll go to Shanghai, a place I've always wanted to see. I said hello to darling Violet and Snickerdoodle, who screeched me a greeting (that cat has the weirdest meow I've ever heard--sounds like a rusty hinge or something).

I called Noreen and we made a lunch date for today at Dargan's. My sore throat seems to have eased, I'm glad to say. I just realized that Jim's birthday is on Tuesday. Ellen and I had talked about going to see him then; I'll see if she still wants to do that. 

THURSDAY

Slept until 6:15, so that was good. Washed the sheets and changed my bed while I was having breakfast. Julie emailed to ask if I wanted to go to BCNN lunch at the Victoria Pub on May 14--yep. I'm wondering if I should ask if she might want to go to the Santa Paula Theatre for "The Cottage" two of my Fractured Actors friends, Anthony and Alphonse, are in it. I wish I hadn't wanted so long to think about asking somebody, as it closes on May 4 and I'm on docent duty that day. 

Fooled around with this and that otherwise and was amused at the comments prompted by these pics I put on Facebook: 

From left: Pat, me Mom, Aunt Maggie, My MIL, Mrs. Arata, and my FIL.

Note my four-inch heels, stiletto heels; I'm amazed I didn't kill myself on them.

Pat and me, with cigarettes and beer. I liked that dress even more than the other, but I should have worn a strapless bra with it. We did not drink what was in all those beer bottles!!

Wrapped up some cookies for Cheryl to give her when she picks me up for T.O.P.S. today. I realize that challenges the very reason for being in T.O.P.S., but I figure she can give them to her husband. She had kindly given me her homemade vanilla, after all.

Went over to VON'S for grapefruit--actual grapefruit and Squirt grapefruit soda, plus a few other items. Came home and shortly, Ellen got here. We sat and chatted for a bit, then drove to town. We were early, so strolled around and stopped in a shop to browse. I saw this doormat and was sorely tempted:

However, I thought better of it...

We met Greg at Lure Fish house about 5:30 and proceeded to have a good time, although I'm always taken aback at the prices. I go to good restaurants often, but I think Lure is considerably pricier than most. Anyway, I had seared tuna, which was yummy, plus sides and a good IPA, El and Greg other good fishy items. We talked and laughed a lot, of course, ranging over a variety of topics. Said goodbye about 7:00 and I was pleased when Greg proposed we meet every two weeks or so. Works for me.

El drove me home, then went back to Ojai. Julie texted to see if I wanted to go to the BCNN lunch on May 14 and I accepted. I then asked if she wanted to go to the Santa Paula Theatre to see "The Cottage," with Anthony and Alphonse and she does. Opened my mail to find an Easter card from Tokyo, which I thought was very clever:

Love the sentiment: "You are easter than us." HA!

T.O.P.S. this morning and boy, am I dreading it. I've been eating out and otherwise indulging all week and I know the scale will go up, not down--I just hope not too much. 

WEDNESDAY

Since I had decided to make chocolate chip cookies for the Dudley House Covered Dish, I checked my supplies and found I needed sugar, more flour, and butter. Went over to Von's for them, then spent most of the rest of the morning on making them. I don't often make cookies, and hadn't brought cookie sheets from Jersey when I moved here, so I turned upside down two of my roasting pans and two glass ones and used them. Worked fine. It took a few hours, but about four dozen were done by noon. 

I cleaned up the kitchen, then looked for something to transport the cookies and found a good-sized basket, on the handle of which I tied a pretty lavender ribbon. Also put six or so on two paper places and took one next door to Suzanne's. Sat town to chat for a bit while I was there, Jim Downes called yet again. I called him back later and a goofy conversation ensued, as it does every time he calls. 

Suzanne was very appreciative and so was Vickie when I brought hers over. That left quite a few, which I packed in a metal container and stowed in the freezer for future company. Lunched, took a short nap, then showered and dressed for the covered dish/pot luck. Julie picked me up and off we went. 

It was great fun, although, as has happened since COVID, there were fewer people there than there had been when I first started docent-ing--I counted twenty-two. We socialized and ate--my cookies went over pretty big--and I met a set of identical twins I hadn't before. Ha--their hats identify each as "Princess":

                                            

                                                                 Three twinnies.

As usual, Shari conducted a short "business meeting" which, as ever, was very casual, to say the least, so a lot more interesting than the dreary, by-the-book kind, sez I. The program was on the early days of the automobile in Ventura and was pretty entertaining, although a shade too long. The speaker--can't remember his name--had a good style of presentation, but he read the whole thing from a tablet; too bad he didn't include slides or other visuals: 

It was almost 9:00 before Julie dropped me off and I just watched some T.V. then turned in. Happily, I slept well and didn't get up until 6:15.  Continuing my marathon going out regime, I'm having dinner at Lure with Ellen and Greg. 

TUESDAY

It was a pleasant day, although the weather wasn't, being cloudy and cool, not to my taste as a spoiled Californian. Bused to across from the mission to find Diane already set up next to the fountain. That's not where I usually take my lunch, but it was fine by me. We had our usual talk-talk-talk about every topic under the sun. Diane has made some mighty life decisions lately: one, that she'll rejoin the Universalist congregation. She wants to join go into some of the discussion groups there and that will be good for her. She's also continuing the idea of moving to Guadalajara, Mexico, in reaction to Trump's--well, Trumpiness. To that end, she's studying to get her Spanish back.*

It got a little chilly after we ate, so Diane suggested we stop at nearby Burger King and get a little something for dessert, which we did. By this time, it was close to 3:00 and we sat and continued to talk there before she had to go outside and wait for the Access Van. We hugged goodbye and I got the bus home. 

Going to the Dudley House covered dish with Julie tonight. I must see how many of the ingredients for chocolate chip cookies I have, then pick up the lack at Von's. 

I've been sleeping pretty well lately. I'm up this morning at 5:00, which is an hour earlier than I like, but not too bad. 

*Background: Diane and her--yes, paramour, Dr. Jim--lived together in Mexico for four years; this was after her divorce, of course. Neither of them were of Mexican descent (she's from Chicago and her ancestors from Bohemia), but his practice was there and they both liked the ex-pat conclave where they lived. When the romance ended, she moved back to the states. Guadalajara is considered a high-end part of the country and is home to many ex-pats, but considering Diane's worsening neuropathy, I wonder if it's a good idea for an 82-year-old. 

MONDAY

When I opened the fridge in the morning to get my tangerine, the light didn't turn on. I had a spare one, so screwed it in, but it still didn't light. Uh-oh, I thought the fridge is dead. Called maintenance and shortly, Fabian (I think that's his name) came over. He checked, then un-screwed the bulb and re-screwed it, and it worked. Wouldn't you know--I just hadn't put it in right.* 

Didn't do a whole lot the first part of the day, aside from a color wash and stowing away the Easter decorations. Suzanne stopped in to give me a small piece of key lime pie she had had for Easter. Diane called to see if I can meet for lunch today across from the mission. Yes, indeedy, and I'll see her at noon. 

More excursions are coming up i.e., the Dudley House covered dish tomorrow. I bought chocolate chips to make the traditional cookies for my contribution.  Called Julie, who will pick me up at 5:45; should be fun. Also, Ellen called to say Greg had said he'd like the three of us to meet for dinner at Lure. That sounds like a great idea to me--we'll go on Thursday. Ellen will come early, so she and I can first look for new sneaks for me.

Speaking of my social life: I left early for dinner with the Soaring Spirits gang, but stopped at Target on the way for eggs and a six-pack of IPAs. It was a smaller than usual group: seven of us, but as ever, we had a good, convivial time. Vera, that dear girl, took me home, as usual, so I got in about 8:00.

* If I were really depraved--or a normal 16-year-old boy--I'd make a naughty joke out of that. 

SATURDAY AND EASTER SUNDAY

💫💫💫💫💫SATURDAY💫💫💫💫💫

The Access Van got me to Ellen's about 10:30 and I was presented with a lovely tulip plant for Easter.  We had a bite to eat, then Ellen prepared a big salad and we took off for Santa Barbara. Got there and were greeted by niece Carolyn, her Dana, and of course, Calvin, who almost knocked m over with his tail. Great-niece, Claire, was just leaving for work (doggy day care). Also there were niece, Francine, her husband, Charlie, and two of their three sons, college and high school age. We all sat in their lovely back yard with sandwiches and drinks and talked happily. This was family, the best kind of companions. 

Carolyn and the boys decided to bike to a restaurant at the harbor and the rest of us would drive and meet them there (except for Charlie, who decided on a nap, instead). Here's Carolyn, in her biking gear,  talking to Ellen in their beautiful backyard, which also has a newly-installed hot tub:

                    

...the three girl cousins:

Carolyn, Ellen, Francine

Ellen drove Francine and me to the harbor and we met Carolyn and Dana there. Went to a nice, casual, seaside restaurant and had Margaritas and other drinks, plus glaucoma, chips, and fries.

From left: Dana, Carolyn, Francine, yours truly, and Ellen.

I wish I had gotten a picture of Charlie and the boys, but they didn't join us at the harbor, so I didn't. We went back to Carolyn's for more chats, then said goodbye after hugs and kisses and "love you" all around. And yes, I do love them.

El drove us back to Ojai and we got in about 6:00. She made us a bite for dinner and Greg came over about 7:30 so we could play our favored game: yummy for gin rummy! We played until 10:00, actually past my bedtime, but it was fun. Slept soundly until 6:15--actually better than I've been sleeping at home.

💫💫💫💫💫SUNDAY💫💫💫💫💫

As mentioned, I slept well and got up at 6:15. Took my weekly med, waited the half-hour, and poured my coffee. I sat reading a wonderful cookbook by Ima Garten, then another on healthy eating, which was even better. Ellen has getting more and more interested in cooking and Greg, of course, has always been a marvelous and inventive cook. He came over shortly after we had breakfast, bringing over his partially prepared main dish for dinner. We visited for a bit and I took this of the three buddies: Ellen, Cessy, and Greg (Gwennie was out, no doubt killing things):

Then the three of us (not Cessy) took off for the Ojai Meadow Preserve, where we enjoyed a hike of about a mile. It's a lovely area with lush greenery and soaring hills that overlook the site, and the weather had turned wonderfully warm. 

Back at El's, the two cooks busied themselves with preparing dinner, which was de-lish. Besides Ellen's roasted Brussels sprouts and potatoes, Greg had outdone himself with a main dish that contained both salmon and cod. They were united in a wonderfully flavorful tomato sauce, made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and a variety of subtle spices. 

After we finished, Greg and I went to Bart's Books, a constant hang-out for Greg, which I greatly enjoy, too, and we stayed for 45 or so, happily browsing. I have a lingering interest in the Kennedys and found this, which I bought for ten bucks:

Back at El's, I got the standard Access Van message that I'd be picked up between seven and twelve minutes. After hugs and thanks for a lovely weekend, off I went. I'm looking forward to seeing El again this week, as I asked her to come with me to buy some new footwear. We'll choose a day later. Hey, that was one of the best holidays I've had in years!

FRIDAY--AND A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Weight report: up a pound at home to 128.6; up .09 at T.O.P.S. to 129.4--AAGH!  That means I'm teetering on the very edge of my comfort zone of 130! I'd better shape up or ship out this coming week. Meeting was okay, as usual, but nothing to write home about (one of my mother's expressions). On the way home, Cheryl asked me about my blog (which I had mentioned in the meeting) and she may be looking into it one of these days. 

Home at 10:00, breakfast, then I took a hour's or so nap. This is getting to be a habit, but one I want to break. When I nap, it effects my overnight sleep, which as I've mentioned before, hasn't been ideal. Anyway, I got up, did a few household chores, then went over to Von's for vegetable broth, strawberries, pretzels, cottage cheese, and other uninteresting items. I did, however, get a box of Ferrero Rocher candy as a hostess gift for Carolyn. 

Packed my small suitcase for my overnight stay at Ellen's, then called the Access Van to take me there. Made my lunch and, since they're working on the sprinkler systems in the middle, took it to one of the table/umbrella areas here and there in the complex. Ate while I read my book, then went back home. I ran into Suzanne as she was also coming in and for chatted for fifteen or so. Told her I'd be at Ellen's over Saturday night and asked her to slip my Sunday paper under the doormat. 

I spent some time slicing the nice fresh strawberries. I stowed them in the freezer, then cored and seasoned two big apples, and baked them in the oven. Ate one during my hour T.V.-watch and boy, was it good.   

So what kind of ★SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT★ is Mimi talking about? It's this: I won't be posting here tomorrow, as I'm staying over at Ellen's and it's just too much of a hassle to bring my laptop and the crapola that goes with it. I'll add my combined entry covering my Saturday Santa Barbara sojourn and Sunday at Ellen's when I get back.  Hoppity-Hop, ya' all!

THURSDAY

Got up to follow my usual routine: top off this blog, play some games, check Facebook, email, and so on...except I couldn't get on the blog, damnit. For some strange reason--and I swear I hadn't done anything different--the non-functioning old blogs came up. I could see the blog, as anyone else can, but the "new post" section wasn't there. 

This had happened before and the guys at Asurion fixed it, so right after breakfast, I bundled up my laptop and accessories and walked across the street. Evan, one of the very nice young men who work there, got it better again; I guess the thirty bucks a month is worth it. He said to go to the top right and click on my pic, then change email from old rosemarymolloy7@gmail.com to current rosemarybmolloy@ gmail.com. Okay, will do.

Home and finished up the blog, then did a few household chores. I filled out Easter cards for Suzanne and Vickie, then made lunch and left for town, dropping off their cards at their doors on the way. 

The weather was not that great: Very overcast, cooler than I like, and with some wind. It was very quiet on Main Street and by the fountain:   

...but I ate my lunch there, as ever. Just stopped in a few stores and didn't find much to buy. (I buy too much, anyway.) Bused home and got in a bit before 5:00. 

Ellen called after dinner and there's and offer on her house; exciting news, but she still has to reveal some things which I hope will be routine. 

Note: My sleep pattern has changed, unfortunately, and I don't like it. For the past few nights, I've ben going to bed somewhere around 10:00, falling asleep, but then waking between two and three am. I lie there for too long--usually for an hour or more--before I fall back to sleep again, usually getting up at 6:15 or so. I'll have to work on a solution to this. 

WEDNESDAY

 Got picked up by the SCAN-provided Lyft driver at 12:50. She--Marisela--was so pleasant and friendly, I had a great time talking to her. She drives for Lyft, Uber, and a service that will pick up children under 18. I was a little taken aback by that, until she said there's an extensive background check, in-depth interviews. and all kinds of other safety measures. Most of the drivers are men and all have been polite, but maybe a little reserved. Maybe there's a difference between men and women--ya think?   

I didn't have to wait long before I saw Dr. Ficks. Of course, the osteoporosis is not going away, and she said she wants to increase the dosage of my once-a week medication. The earlier dose (35 mm) had slowed the progression before, but no longer is. Okay, I trust my doctor and I'll go with that. Interestingly, she remembered and mentioned that my son lives in Singapore. I told her he was not in Vietnam and that his daughter, my granddaughter, Vivian, had gotten an summer internship at Cornell in medical research. That prompted a discussion about Hamas and Israel--interesting, but she seems to swallow the party line. 

After I left, I bused to the mall, as I had packed my lunch and decided to eat it there. Did so, then picked up some salmon and cereal at Target, strolled around, and bused home.

Lorraine called and we talked a bit. I got a lovely Easter card from my girl, Ellen; she should be getting mine to her today. I also sent one to my other children, grandchildren, and greats, and will drop off some for Suzanne and Vickie. 

TUESDAY

Ellen got here at 11:30 and off we went to Diane's. Diane doesn't cook much herself, but she served up a light lunch: a small salad and a frozen shrimp dish, with Jello for dessert. This was accompanied by Chardonnay and a packaged pina colada; Ellen had a small amount of the latter and I had some, too. 

Diane has two sons, but no daughters and we commiserated over the fact that her sons and their wives are avid Trump fans and, in fact, are fundamentalist Christians. When I mentioned that I'd like to ask someone who favors Trump why, they reacted the same way everybody does: By telling me their version of why, which includes how wrong and bull-headed the Trump-lovers are. But this is exactly what I don't want--I want to hear it directly, in their words, thank them, and keep my freakin' mouth shut otherwise.  

Anyway, it was very enjoyable and we stayed until close to 4:00. Went right home because El wanted to do her hair, as she's seeing some former colleagues today. When I got home, I was hungry, so had some cabbage, then some crackers and cottage cheese.  At that point, I was sleepy, so took an hour's nap.

Have to see the endocrinologist at 1:30 today. Damn, I hate doctors, although Dr. Ficks is nice enough. I called to have Lyft take me and said I'd bus home, as I may want to stop somewhere after.

MONDAY

 Another rather slow day. I changed the bed and washed the sheets early on, then tidied up a little. I gathered up the newspapers I had saved to give to Vickie's friend, and dropped them off. Speaking of Vickie, I was happy to see this on her Facebook page+:

--Corporate Games fun today playing in the Billiards 8-Ball event at Stiix Billiards. My teammate, Michelle and I worked our way to the Gold Medal match and won the Silver Medal representing the County of Ventura! Our County 1 team won the Gold Medal 3 to 2. What a great day!--

Vickie on the left with her pool partner, Michelle.

I had more newspapers to drop off at Vickie's, whose friend seems to have a problem with reading. I believe she has Asperger's, as she rarely goes out, although she's in Vickie's age-late sixties.

Anyway, I dropped them off, then prepared and flavored the two big apples I had gotten at Wal-Mart, added Stevia and cinnamon and just microwaved them. I much prefer baked apples in the oven, but I didn't want to take the time.

Readied myself to go to Von's for things I had forgotten the other day. As I was leaving, Vickie came to my entrance walk and we stopped to chat for a bit. Then Suzanne walked up and the three of us talked. Suzanne invited Vickie and me over for Key Lime pie on Saturday, but I'll be at Carolyn's; she said she'd save me a piece.

At Von's. I got cabbage, more apples, and sweet red peppers. Put them away at home, then packed my lunch. I was going to sit in the middle, but it was a little too cool and breezy, so I chose another outdoor area to have my lunch and read my book.

Back inside, I chopped the cabbage and two apples and put them in the slow cooker. Rough-chopped the peppers and stored them in the freezer. Actually, I didn't do it by myself; Elvis and Tammy Wynette were with me. Had the cabbage and mixed veggies for dinner.

Ellen called to say she'll stop for me at 11:30 for our lunch date at Diane's. I'm looking forward to it, as good grief, it's been four days since I've gone out for lunch--I'm practically a hermit! (Or should that be "Hermitette?")

SUNDAY

Now I'm thoroughly annoyed with Frank Longo! This time, he made the Sunday crossword clues so obscure, it was unfair. Who the hell would know the first baseman for the Cincinnati Reds? And the lead singer in some weird rap group?  I wouldn't, that's a cinch and anybody who would would NOT be interested in doing crossword puzzles! (Rant, rant, rave, rave...).* 

Hey, yesterday I got Wordle  in two; the word was "laugh." I do that, plus Connections, plus Blossom every day. 

I finally tackled the second hall closet, in which I keep gift wrap and ribbons, bags, and other containers of all kinds. (The third hall closet is taken up by the washer and dryer). I didn't throw away as much as I probably should have, but at least it's better organized and I now know what all I have. That finished, I walked to Wal-Mart, stopping first at BOA to get some cash. I hardly ever use it, but like to have some on hand just in case. Got some nice big apples and the crackers I like--no wonder I like them, they contain 70 calories for only four and they're small--not so good, but I'm addicted. I was surprised to see they've gone up in price quite a bit. Would that be just a normal upgrade or because of the tariff thing? 

Had my lunch at my favored spot near Ralph's and, of course, I enjoyed the birds at the fountain, although they're hard to see here. It was overcast, too, my least favorite weather, but nice and warm:

Home about 3:30. Lorraine called me, just to chat, then I kind of lazed around. I do enjoy going out and do, every chance I get, but sometimes I like just being by myself and following my own whims with nobody else to consider.

*Later: After dinner, I looked again at the crossword and actually got most of it. Frank gets cute with his themes and clues, one of the former yesterday being "Seeing S-Stars" and one of the clues being "'To Kill A Mockingbird' Oscar Winner who had a tiny birthmark.'"  That was an easy one: "Gregory Specks." Dumb? Yeah, I look forward to the damn things. 

SATURDAY

In the morning, I was charmed to find this email from my tenant, Lori: 

--Hi Rosemary, I hope you are having a good week!  Wanted to send you a current photo of the tree by the front entrance.  While there are some dead branches in the bottom it looks like the top is coming to life. Thought you would enjoy knowing that! Hope you are well,  Lori--

  I immediately sent her back my thanks and will send an Easter card. 

Goodness gracious, I hope my electricity doesn't get cut off soon, as I received an unexpected bill from Southern Cal Electric for thirty-four cents. I had until the 28th to pay it, but heroically, sent it in right away. (Gawd, you'd think they'd just tack it onto the next bill, but no-o-o....)

All that aside, I packed my lunch and took off for town about 1:00. I stopped at one of the little shops and found they were having a 50 percent off sale. Could I resist? Oh, sure, I just ignored it--NOT! I bought three nice tops (we used to call them "blouses"), all for a song. 

Ate across from the mission, of course, and enjoyed another lovely day. On the bus ride home, I saw this young man and I was so intrigued, I asked if I could take his picture "to show my grandkids." He was agreeable and very well spoken. I found it interesting that he mentions his autism on shirt and hat and maybe he's gay, considering the rainbow socks, but who knows. 

I like those socks!

Via text, Rosa invited me to a "Hands Off: Ventura Fights Back," another anti-Trump demonstration on Saturday, I guess. I might have gone, but Ellen and I are going to Carolyn's on Saturday. 

I'm determined to clean out one of the hall closet--the junky one--today. Also want to walk to Ralph's and Wal-Mart. Much as I hate that dump, they have the crackers I like so much.

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Note: I just came across my blog entry of April 4, 2009, sixteen years ago: "Went to Weight Watchers and was pleased at a 2. 6 loss. That brings me under the 130 mark (just barely; I'm at 129.6) and an even 70 pounds off."

FRIDAY

Right after I got up at 6:00, I showered and washed my hair, after putting in a color wash. I usually wait until evening, but had skipped it the night before. 

Weight: I was up a tad, but only .06 at home to 127.6 and .08 at T.O.P.S. to 128.5. There were only four of us there--beside Cheryl and me, just Sharon and Lennie and I took the minutes and thankfully, Home at 10:00.

While I was having breakfast, Jimmy Downes called me yet again. He insisted that I had called him--said the phone had rung and he saw my number. That can happen accidentally, but I knew it hadn't in this case, as I was eating my oatmeal and the phone was on the table a foot or so away from me. goodbye. I'm afraid Jim is getting more and more confused, but at least he didn't say he thought I was dead this time. 

Readied myself to meet Rosa out front at 12:30 and we went off to Two Trees. I knew it was very busy on weekends, but was hoping not so much on Fridays; however, it was jammed. Luckily, they had some room on the patio, so we sat out there, as it was another gorgeous day. 

We had such an enjoyable time getting to better know each other. Rosa is 67, divorced for many years, with one son and some grandchildren, She was born in Mexico, but came here with her parents when she was an infant. She speaks fluent Spanish and had been a fourth-grade teacher before she retired. Interestingly, her ex had a PH.D; I don't remember what his area of expertise was.  I got the impression Rosa isn't conventionally religious, but she "respected Lenten customs" and ordered sea bass. (I didn't even know no meat on Friday was still a life and (spiritual) death rule.) That prompted an interesting discussion on religion--Roman Catholicism, that is--and although Rosa is close to my older son's age, she said she remembers when the mass was said in Latin.

After a leisurely meal and chat session, I asked Rosa to drop me at the post office to mail my package. I said I'd walk home, but she insisted in driving me. Nice day and we vowed we'd keep in touch. 

About 5:00, I was pleased to get a Facetime call from Mike. He just got back from Sri Lanka and will go to Vietnam next week and after that, Shanghai. Wow, do he and his family get around: Shortly, Violet will be going to Malaysia for two weeks, then to Thailand for a week. These are school trips, so they can, for instance, see directly things relative to say, geology. She'll be going off to Savannah in the summer, too. Geez, when I was in high school, I was lucky get to Philly... 

THURSDAY

 A quiet day, which was fine by me after several busy ones. I spent the morning finishing up the meeting agenda for T.O.P.S. That meant coming up with two "inspirational quotes" for each meeting. What Lennie puts on are big fat bores, so I looked on the Internet for some a little less second-grade level. I also snuck in, here and there, some funnies such as Thomas Wright's "I intend to live forever...so far, so good" and "Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines." I paired that last with the soulful and idiotic "Think of your hopes as soaring eagles, then climb aboard to meet them," by Mimi Byrne.*

Took my lunch out to the middle and enjoyed the quiet time on yet another beautiful day. A guy came to do something or other with the outlets in the kitchen and bathroom, which management had notified us about a few days ago. While he was here, I swept the patio, watered my new tomato plant, and took the trash out to the trash place. 

Ellen and I firmed up our luncheon date at Diane's for Tuesday. I got a text from my Sunrise Bay friend, Leslie, just checking in and giving me some family news. Wrote her back, glad to keep in touch. 

The rest of the day I attended to my Easter cards and also finished packaging and wrapping the little gifts I'm sending to Jersey. I'll try to get them to the post office later today, after lunch with Rosa. 

*Gee, that's funny: "Mimi" was my childhood nickname and "Byrne" is my maiden name--what a coincidence... 😂

WEDNESDAY

Left at 11:00 to meet my new acquaintance, Valarie, at the Hill Street Cafe. She had suggested lunch at 11:30, which is way, way earlier than I like to have it, but I wanted to be agreeable, so said sure. Got there and she came shortly thereafter. 

I shouldn't have worried, as I liked her a lot. She's a native California, although she and her husband lived in upstate New York when they first married. She has five children and several grandchildren;  one daughter lives in Philly. She mentioned that she just turned 70, so she's closer to my children's age than mine, but I like having a range of friends, so that was fine. I was impressed (well, I'm from academia) when she mentioned that her husband graduated from Harvard, then was some kind of executive in some kind of business, I don't remember what. 

Later, though, they had a more interesting life: They bought and ran a restaurant in San Luis Obispo; later still, she had a bakery, also in California, but I can't remember where. They support and are active in Habitat for Humanity--I told her about being there on Tuesday. They have a house and ranch of over a hundred acres up near the desert, which also has three smaller houses on it, with a caretaker. 

After we ate, Valerie asked if I might want to got to Lynn's Consignment shop and see is they had any of the outdoor shelving I'm looking for. Sure, and we drove into midtown. I didn't find anything, though, but on the way there, we stopped at Valerie's house on Poli Street. That's an expensive area and the house is very fetching.  Valerie then dropped me off and we agreed we'll do this again--nice to make a new friend.  

Since we had met so early, it was only 1:00 when I got home, so I went over to Von's for chicken breast.  I had come across a recipe for lemon garlic chicken and want to try it. Got some, made the recipe and it turned out well. These are very large, so I had only part of one for dinner and froze the other two. In the swing of things, I roughly chopped several pounds of onions, put them in the elixir I had used for the chicken, then roasted them in the oven. With some little gold potatoes, that made a yummy dinner.

Called Ellen and told her of Carolyn's Easter invitation for either Saturday or Sunda. Since El had invited Greg for Easter Sunday, we decided on Saturday. Called Carolyn and she said that was fine. I asked her what I could bring, but will decide that later. 

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I forgot to post this from when Ellen and I went to Lowe's for my tomato plant. I asked the woman with her (I assume it's  a her because of the little yellow sun dress the pup had on) if I could take a picture "to show my grandchildren." Somehow, I find this--animals in strollers--both pathetic and silly; why does a dog have to be transported like an infant? For that matter, why do people take their dogs to stores? 

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TUESDAY

After dropping little Gwennie off at the cat hospital, Ellen got here about 10:00. We then took off for Oxnard to check out outdoor furniture at Habitat for Humanity resale store. They had a lot of good stuff, but I didn't see anything I wanted for my patio cabinet. I did buy a small bookcase for one of my hall closets.* After, we stopped at Granny's Home Center and I visited with Jim for just ten minutes or so. I asked if I could bring a little red wine (I always served him that when he used to lunch at my place), but unfortunately, Celeste told me that wasn't permitted.  

From there, we drove back to Ventura to Lowe's to search out their outdoor furniture--nada, but I bought a tomato plant. The Wood Ranch was next and we each had a good lunch. El then came back to my place and 1.) planted my tomato and 2.) tried to add some pieces to my two small shelving units, but neither of us could figure it out; I don't really care, as I can still use them.

El had been told by the vet she could pick Gweenie up after 2:00, so she left about 3:00 with many thanks from her mum. I was about to start something--what? I don't remember--when niece Carolyn called. She invited Ellen and me to come to her place in Santa Barbara either Easter Saturday and Sunday, as my other niece, Frank's daughter, Francine, and her son will be there. I'll see if Ellen would like to go.

* Darn, I don't know what I was thinking: The bookcase is much too big for the hall closet. I think I'll put it on the patio for a temporary fix until I get a permanent one. 

MONDAY

Julie and Bridget picked me up shortly before noon and off we went to Cafe Z(ak). (I'm not quite clear if it's actually "Zak" or "Z.") We met Regina, the birthday girl, there and settled into a sunny table on the patio. I had a salmon with vegetables and it was a true cut above the usual. The veggies were clearly fresh, not frozen (nor canned, heaven forfend), and there was some kind of a subtle dressing that was delish. Wonder of wonders, the salmon was properly cooked, not overdone, as so many restaurants present it. I had an IPA, natch, but the others had dessert, which I declined. Anyway, we had a really good time. The fact that Bridget talks non-stop, on and on and on and--AAGH!--in her still pretty heavy German accent, is just something that has to be tolerated.

Regina brought up the fact that she was trying to determine where her possessions will go after her death and the rest of us took up the topic. We started talking about the fact that none of the other three have family--husbands dead or divorced-from, no children, no living siblings, maybe a niece or nephew here and there, but they're not in touch. Considering my blood descendants (ten) and huge extended family (so many, I can't count them), we commented over the fact that our circumstances are so different. Regina on on the board of several charities and will leave her assets to them. Bridget fretted over the fact she doesn't know where her assets might go; Julie, who is so quiet, didn't say.  

Didn't get home until after 3:00. For some reason, I was tired, so took a short nap. I then went over to CVS and Von's for a few items. Got a card from Sharon with two printed recipe on it, for salmon and persimmon sauce. That was nice of her, although I'm not sure if I'll ever make them.

I called Valarie, whom I had met at the BCNN meeting last week and we made a date for lunch tomorrow at the Hill Street Cafe. Called Rosa back and it's lunch for us on Friday. Gawd, how will I weigh in this week? I hope my activity will offset my calorie count!

SUNDAY

A quiet, but pleasant day. Had breakfast, then the crossword (Frank Longo's, to which I look forward all week), which was absorbing and I got all but one. After, I cut back both the regular and the ivy geraniums. I tried to tie them up, but couldn't do it by myself, so will ask Ellen when she's here tomorrow. 

Decided to start looking for outdoor shelving for the garden. I have one out there, but it's getting shabby and also, I want a kind of cabinet to store my plant holders and so on. Going out, I ran into Suzanne coming in and we chatted for fifteen or so. Left for the bus and while I was waiting at the stop, Rosa D. called. I was pleased to hear from her and hope we can make a lunch date for next week. 

Got off to stop at the library and took two books out. As I was leaving, brother Larry called and we talked for a bit--nothing too much new there. I stopped in a few stores, but didn't see anything enticing, but it was enjoyable. I expected Main Street to be busier than it was, considering the gorgeous weather, sunny and 75, with no humidity to speak of. Happily, the strong winds had subsided, too. Ate my lunch across from the mission, as usual, strolled around, then bused home. 

SATURDAY AND OUR ESTEEMED PRESIDENT

In the morning, Diane emailed me, saying she was going to the "Dump Trump" rally on the corner of Victoria and Telephone, and would I meet her there before our noon lunch date at the library? I wrote back I'd think about it, decided I would, so left about 11:00 and walked the mile to the site. I hadn't realized this was a kind of national rally.

Lots of what I call "groups with gripes" get licenses to demonstrate for or against something at this site, but the participants almost always total a handful--ten to fifteen people with hard-to-read signs, maybe. That was hardly the case here:

I got a kick out of this one. 

These pictures really it justice; there were certainly seven or eight hundred people there. Lots and lots of cars going by blew their horns in agreement and it was actually pretty interesting.

This was a national event and here's my girl at the rally in her town of Ojai. 

As it turned out, I never did find Diane at the Ventura rally. When I called her, I found she had already left--having neuropathy and using a walker, she had gotten very fatigued and was outside the library. I met her there, we had our lunches, then settled down for one of our marathon talk sessions. Diane is just about as fervent a Trump hater as are, as far as I know, all my other friends.  

What's odd is I don't know a single person who favors Trump. I wish I did, because I'd like to ask them why. I don't mean I want to argue or tell them how stupid they are, or anything except I really want to know from a living person. The thing is, people at the rally emphasized they want "our democracy back," but isn't an example of democracy one person, one vote? And more people voted for Trump than anybody else, so--isn't that democracy, whether you agree with the choice or not?

By the way, Diane is fervently hoping Cory Booker will run for president, as she wants to help on his campaign. A Jersey guy--sure, why not? 

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Vickie texted Suzanne and me about the following and I want to be able to read it more carefully, so am adding it here. We're all very hopeful for a good outlook. This is the medical [art of her text:

Anyway, here is a summary of what the Oncologist at UCLA recommended and my local Oncologist and I have agreed upon to this point:

1. Stop chemotherapy (iBrance) treatments for 3 to 4 months (hooray!), while awaiting UCLA’s results of blood testing done yesterday called Signatera Minimal Residual Disease (MRD), which looks for cancer cells in the blood and helps UCLA detect cancer recurrence earlier than it may be seen on a scan.  This test is amazing and entails comparing my previous cancer cells with my blood today.  The cells within the cancerous tumors from the past surgeries are actually reviewed and studied.  This is why it takes a while for the results and is a somewhat new testing procedure / study which I am feeling blessed to be a part of.
2. If there is any evidence of cancer cells in the blood when the testing is completed around July or August, then restarting chemotherapy (iBrance) or an alternative CDK4/6 inhibitor will need to be considered.
3. Continue endocrine therapy for 10 more years and the Zometa infusions every 6 months.

FRIDAY AND A FUN DAY

Had a neat day with Ellen. She came over about 9:30 after dropping Cessy off at the cat doctor's. El said the poor baby cried and cried to protest the carrier and the whole trip. Luckily, she was sedated before the doc cleaned her teeth.

As for us, we first went to the other CVS by the Ralph's shopping center and happy day, found the Vision Shield eye supplement the doctor recommended. It was even a BOGO deal, so I got two. We then took off for la petite cafe, a French restaurant at the harbor. It was a lovely day, just a tad too breezy to sit outside, we thought, but we were near the wide open wall-length doors over-looking the harbor. I had a "Croque Monsieur"--ham and cheese open-faced sandwich on a croissant--with a side of potatoes au gratin and El a quiche with a big salad. Yum and I took some home.

After, we walked the harbor--maybe three-quarters of a mile--and here's an idea of what it looks like: 

Got to the museum at the end, went in and surveyed the exhibits: 

We saw signs that said they don't take cash, only cards. I thought that was curious, as I had always heard sellers had to accept U.S. money--after all, it's called "legal tender," isn't it? However, she said that was true only in some states and she mentioned Jersey. Hmm...I'll look it up. We spend some time looking for sea lions (ugh!), but saw only one far off in the water. Walked back to the car, but not before

we took this for posterity: 

                                       

Home, we played one of our cutthroat gin rummy games. (Ellen beat me by a wide margin--I swear, she set up the cards!), but we had a good time. The vet assistant called about 3:30 to report that Cessy was awake and had done well. El left, but I'm happy to say I'll see her again on Tuesday when she'll repeat the teeth-cleaning process with Gwennie.  

I had just put my leftovers in the microwave when Jim Downes called. He once again said he thought I had died. I laughed and said, "Well, if I had, I wouldn't have answered the phone." We talked for a few minutes--he repeating the same comments several times. I finally told him the truth, that my dinner was ready and I had to go. I'll have to remember to call him one of these days.

Lib lunch with Diane today.

THURSDAY

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

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

                                      

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

hang fire

 delay or be delayed in taking action or progressing.

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

See also: fire, hang

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017