FRIDAY

 Disastrous news on the weight front: I gained .06 at home (to 130), and .09 at T.O.P.S to 131--AAGH!  Anyway, there were only three of us there: Sharon, Cheryl, and me, so we just more or less chatted about our doings, our families, and so on. I did take what what will pass for minutes, and on that topic...

A mysterious person read and earlier entry asked "why take minutes at all?" I had never questioned that,  but--yeah, why? I can understand recording the weight loss and gain, who was the biggest loser, and so on--in other words, factual things, but why include that Sharon's  husband made lasagna and Cheryl went to IHOP for lunch?  I asked that at the meeting and Cheryl had the answer, as her husband is in Veterans for Peace: It's the law that non-profit organizations are required to take (and file somewhere, presumably) minutes at each meeting. I guess if members are accused of profiting in some way (aside from morally), they can submit minutes to prove otherwise.

Home at 10:00, did this and that, had a very light lunch, then put my black beans, plus seasonings, onions, and peppers in the slow cooker. I then left for the bus stop to go to the audiologist. On my way, I pass Vickie's and while I was leaving the newspapers I save for her friend, she opened the door. She said she was taking a break from work and was in a low state. She had gone to the doctor's and he had left it up to her if she wanted to continue the chemo. That sounds very ominous to me, since it implies that it may not have the effect wanted, anyway. I feel so very sorry for my friend and we cried together. Vickie then said she wanted to get out and that she'd drive me to the audiologist's. I protested--feebly--but agreed and Vick asked me to come back in a half hour. I did and off we went. Luckily, I was early and my aids were quickly cleaned. 

I had gotten Pat Kennedy Hayes' number from Carolyn and called her. We had a long, good talk--she'll be 90 soon, but is very active, serving on school boards and so on. She lost her son and her brother six years ago, within four days of each other. How you live through that, I don't know.  

Home, Suzanne stopped in and I gave her the little parting gift from Lorraine. We chatted for a bit--I'm afraid her fibromyalgia is flaring up again--and I fervently hope it improves. 

After four hours in the slow cooker, my black beans were finished. I added some leftover chicken and had a bowl for dinner:  

                                                          Oh, Mama, was that good!

Meeting Stella for lunch today at the Chinese restaurant near Trader Joe's and now I'm going to hop in the shower.

THURSDAY--GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS

THE GOOD:  Gwennie is back! After ten days on the loose, she showed up Wednesday night, back on Ellen's porch! Here she is a short time ago, balancing on El's exercise bike:

We'll so relieved, as El is moving to her new place in two weeks and it would have been hard to leave, knowing Gwennie was gone--whew!

THE BAD: I'm afraid Diane and I will no longer be meeting for lib lunch--or for anything else.  We went back and forth on our differences about 1.) the homeless and 2.) war. She then suggested we just "dialogue"--she meant corresponding via email, but I'm not agreeable to that, so suggested we call it a day, i.e., end our friendship. This may illustrates better than I can say it:

I'm now having second thoughts and am thinking about asking what she means by "dialogue." If she wants to discuss weighty topics such as those mentioned, then no, I'm not interested. If she simply wants to periodically catch each up on our activities and doings, then yes, I'd like that. i may suggest it--still on the fence about it.

More bad news: As I've been doing for a year a longer, I turned to "Connections" after I finished "Wordle." I pressed "play" and was greeted with an "oops" sign and the information that I'd have to try again to get into it. I have no idea what the problem is, but I've tried several times and no luck. Geez, it's one thing after another...

Aside from all that, Suzanne asked if I wanted to go to WinCo at 9:30 and sure I did. I got chicken thighs, carrots, frozen mixed veggies, and several other things. Suzanne buys for two weeks and boy, she got a car full. She drinks bottled water and had three very large containers of it, as well.

Lorraine called and asked to meet me in the middle to say goodbye, as she moves to Santa Clarita (about a two-hour drive away) today. I agreed, took my lunch, she came, and we sat for close to two hours, chatting. Lorraine can be a bit wearing, but I'm sorry she's leaving. We've haven't been what you would call close friends, but I liked--on occasion--to be with her. She said she'd call me and I said I'd have her over for lunch when we're both available. Here's Lorraine:

Lorraine is nine years younger than I am, but I'm not sure if that's noticeable. Before she left, we walked to her car and she gave me--as a going-away gift--a pretty footed cake plate. Boy, I feel bad that I didn't think to get her anything as a going-away gift.

Got a text from Katherine, who said she'll wait until next week to join our T.O.P.S. group. It seems she'll be attending her grandchild's graduation ceremony today. High school? College? No, Kindergarten. 😄 

I was at loose ends when I got home, took an hour's nap. T.O.P.S. today and I'm not feeling very hopeful re weight, but we'll see. 

Note to self re Cricket: I've contacted both Cricket and BOA about auto-pay, but neither seem to be able to solve the problems, so drop auto-pay. Will get a text about payment monthly and just do it from there. 

WEDNESDAY

I found an article from The Atlantic magazine about the NYTimes daily game, "Connections." I do this every day and, believe it or not, I record my progress, as I do for "Wordle" and "Blossom." With "Connections," I'm always excited to get all three, but it's not very common:  

I guess I should be embarrassed about this, but I'm not. What do I plan to do with these "records?" Nothing, actually, I just do it--dunno why.

I called HEARX, the audiology place, and left a message, but haven't heard back from them. I want to make an appointment, as I haven't used my right hearing aid for several weeks. It seems I get it in properly, but the sound is uneven. I think it needs to be deep-cleaned.  

Made lunch and bused to the mall for Father's Day cards and to have lunch in the middle. I wanted to buy silver polish and can't seem to find it anywhere. Just ate, browsed around, and bused home after a few hours. Got in at 4:00 and took a short nap, after which I was galvanized enough to type up the T.O.P.S. minutes I had taken at the last meeting. However, I am not going to continue taking the minutes. We haven't had a regular recording secretary for some time and others can take their turns. As it is, I barely took any notes, so I had to improvise quite a bit, but I don't think anyone will notice.

Diane had emailed me a long treatise on our disagreement about sending the homeless to some remote place without their consent or, presumably, due process. She added an expression of her annoyance with my pacifist stance. I wrote her back a pretty detailed reply--a rebuttal, really, but in a fairly conciliatory tone. I told her that I valued our friendship and hope this doesn't end it and that's the truth. However, I'm not going to pretend to support certain ideologies that I don't.

For dinner, I roasted a cauliflower via my favorite recipe: boil for six minutes, slather with mayo and parm, add garlic salt, and roast for about 20 minutes. Yum, is that good, and that was what I had for dinner--just that and nothing else. I have enough left for two more side dishes when I have a more conventional dinners. 

Slept well and just got up at 6:00; let's hope this continues. 

TUESDAY

 An okay, although not very interesting, day. I did a few household chores after breakfast, then packed up my lunch and walked first to the bank to pick up some check registers. I rarely use checks anymore--or cash, for that matter--almost always I use a debit card, but I record those, then check them off after I go on-line to my bank account. Stopped after at Ralph's, as I wanted to pick up some Purple Tears, the IPA I liked so much at the Paradise Cove. It turned out they didn't have any, but the woman in the office was very nice and took my name and number, saying she'd call me when some came in.

After, I went to my usual place when I'm in that area, the small park with the fountain in front of Ralph's. Started eating my sandwich and fell into conversation with a young man named Kyle. He had an interesting background, to say the least, and I enjoyed talking to him. He makes jewelry and before he left, I was surprised and pleased when he gave me this pretty purple pendant: 

Home, I did some stuff on this laptop, went out to get the mail, then washed, cored, and seasoned the six big apples I had bought, and popped them in the oven. After, I sat down her to play Jewel Match Royale, my favorite game. The big news is that I slept well last night--happy day, because it's been the opposite for far too long.   

MONDAY

 While I was scanning Facebook after breakfast, I saw that it was Jimmy Downes' birthday. I immediately called him and said, "Hi, Jim, it's Rosemary. Happy birthday!" "Oh, is it my birthday?" he asked, "how old am I?" "Eighty-eight," I said. We then had one of our scarcely intelligible chats, during which he told me three times he no longer drove and asked me twice how old he was. Oh, well...

I'm still trying to decide who all was in that fifty-year high school reunion picture, held in 2004. I found my yearbook, but didn't get many clues. However, I have the program from the reunion, saw the listing for Pat Mooney K.  with whom I had been very friendly. There was a phone number and on impulse, I called her. She answered, said she was thrilled to hear from me and proceeded to tell me a bit about her--rather harrowing--life. She had had six children in six years and her husband had walked out on her after twelve years of marriage. She and all six of the kids moved back in with her parents. Later, she was "with" her man--they didn't marry--for forty years; he died five years ago. I asked her of what and she said she didn't know. He refused to go to the doctor or the hospital. But what did it say on the death certificate? "I don't know, I never saw it."  Okay, this is another one I'm beginning to wonder about. BTW, she also said that her youngest, a son, lives in Florida and has been married six times. Pat and I said we keep in touch with each other and sure, I'd like that. I immediately called Jeanne Painter to bring her up to date, but she had some urgent business and we'll talk later today.

Ellen and Greg came at 12:45 and off we went to drop my donations off to GoodWill. I saw some pretty sofa cushions and bought them (see pic at the bottom of the page). They had a 25% off sale and for both of them, I paid a total of $7. 48; I'll donate the ones I already have. After, we went to Steven's Greek restaurant and had some yummy meals--mine was lentil soup and a gyro. We stayed talking and laughing for almost two hours, then dropped Greg off at Peet's Coffee and went to Wal-Mart. Yes, that's my least favorite store in the universe, but El wanted to buy some big packing boxes and I needed a few minor items. 

Greg had walked from Peet's to Barnes & Noble, about two miles. El took my purchases and me home first, then we said goodbye and she picked up Greg. It was a good day--always is with El and Greg, and I'm always pleased to see both of them. 

Suzanne stopped in on her way back from the Sisters' place, where she joined them for a Memorial Day cookout. We chatted for a bit and I gave her the jigsaw puzzle I had picked up at the library. 

                                        👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀                                             

   

And see the pic on the table? That's Buddy Holly, aka Tristan P, my great-grandson.

👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀👀

SUNDAY

Did a color wash in the morning, had breakfast (crossword was abysmal), then left at 10:00 to bus to town. It only about 11:20 when I got to Paradise Cove, so I asked if I could make a reservation for noon. Spent the extra time strolling around, then Noreen came and we settled in, sitting outside in the lovely weather.

We both had their yummy turkey/pesto sandwich, Noreen with a glass of bubbly, I with their excellent Purple Tears IPA. Of course, we talked and talked. Noreen has a problem saying no, I'm afraid-- her 32-year-old grandson wants to move in with her.  She doesn't want him to and what's more, the woman she had formerly, out of the goodness of her heart, had live with her for several months, wants to come back. Why in world she feels so guilty if she refuses is beyond me, but it isn't up to me. Anyway, we actually had a good time--I always like being with Noreen--and we stayed for two hours. I walked her to where she parked her car and, nearby, then got the 6 bus home.

I had gotten a text from CVS that my Al (something) med was in, so I stopped there before I got home. To my surprise and annoyance, it as for 35 milligrams--but Dr. Ficks had increased it to 70 mgs last week. In fact, I had already gotten the increased dosage once--why did CVS go back to 35? I'll call Dr. Ficks tomorrow, as I assume Primary Medical is closed today. 

Ellen called to tell me she had asked Greg to go along with us today--that's good, I always enjoy seeing him--and to give me our itinerary. They'll get here about 12:30, pack up her car with my GoodWill donations, then drive there. As Greg would rather die than go in a thrift store (he's a snob), we'll drop him off at Pete's Coffee or my place to read while we go. We'll leave him there while we go to Wal-Mart (he'd rather die twice than go there), as I need silver polish, lens cleaner, and parmesan cheese.  We will then reunite with Greg and have dinner at Steven's Greek, so we'll have a fun day. 

Home at 4:00 and I fooled around for a bit, then took a short nap. Incredible, I slept well and just got up at 6:00--great, I hope it continues. 

SATURDAY

Went over yet again to Von's for cauliflower, shrimp, and a few other things. Did some chores, then packed my lunch and bused to the transit center. I stopped at the little shop across from it, found a blouse I liked and bought it, along with a small black vase and this book:

Yes, I've gotten into the political world (the one that existed decades ago), starting with The Dark Side of Camelot, which details the evil empire of the Kennedys. The other day, I had also picked up a bio of Bobby Kennedy, by Chris Matthews: 

That, though, I'll put to one side. It's obviously a puff piece, as Matthews had been an aide to Kennedy,  after which he was a political talk show host. I might read it eventually, but will keep it on the back burner for now. 

Ate my lunch in the mall, as I've done several times. I had intended to look around in Target for a few things, but when I got there just didn't feel like it, so off I went back to the depot, then home. By that time, it was after 4:00 and I didn't do too much else until time for dinner. 

I'm looking forward to lunch today with Noreen at Paradise Cove. Town should be crowded, but I like it that way--seems more festive. Then on Monday, my Ellen and I will hang out--YAY!

😋😋😋😋😋😋😋😋😋😉

I got this answer back from Nature's Harvest:  Hello, Rosemary. FDA rounding rules rounds nutritional values up or down. If the number is below 5, it is rounded down to zero. If it is above 5, it is rounded up. We follow all FDA rounding rules and requirements.

Well, okay, I guess that makes sense--maybe.

😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉

FRIDAY

A low-key, but pleasant day. As for weight, at home I gained .02, which took me to 129.6, at T.O.P.S. I lost .01 (big whoops!), so was 130.1. That's still in the danger zone, but a tad better. There were only three members--Sharon, Cheryl, and me, but we had a surprise guest: Katherine, who had attended the BCNN lunch at Victoria Pub. She had recently moved to a townhouse where my friend, Julie, lives and Julie had told her of T.O.P.S.  After the three members had weighed in, we mostly talked to Katherine. We filled her in about T.O.P.S. items, but also learned s bit about her.

Katherine moved to Ventura only  a month ago, from Monterey, where she and her late husband had a ranch with horses. Her husband died a year or so ago--he was considerably older than Katherine, she said, and she has (I think) two daughters and grandchildren. She had volunteered at teh aquarium in Monterey, which is well-known. She said she speaks Spanish, although she's not Latina. Anyway, we all liked her and are looking forward to having her join.  I gave her my card, telling her to call with anything else she needs to know. I took the minutes, which means now I have to type them up and submit at the next meeting, darn it.

Home about 10,  had breakfast, did some stuff on the laptop, packed my lunch, and bused to town. On the bus, I sat next to a young woman (well, she's 45, that's young to me) and we chatted. I liked her a lot and gave her my card; hope she'll get in touch. Stopped in a few shops and ate at my usual place across from the mission. It was a lovely day--sunny, in the seventies, but with little humidity.

On my way home, Mary Martin Hoffman called; called her back when I got in and we had a long talk. It's was good to here from a longtime friend and '54 classmate. Suzanne asked Vickie and me if we wanted to go to the inpro show on June 6. I sure do, but wanted to find out if Ellen has other plans then. I called her and she doesn't. We had a good talk, although poor Gwennie still gone. Texted Suzanne that I'll go to the show.  

Here's something weird: I stopped at Von's on the way home a few things, including bread. When I looked at the calorie count, this is what I saw: 

Now, I was an English major and I have to take off my shoes to count over ten, but I suspect there's something off here. Think I'll call the company and let them know. Stay tuned. 

THURSDAY

Met Diane at our usual place near the library and settled in for lunch and conversation. That ranged far and wide, as usual and, at one point, including the homeless. Diane insisted they were each and every, one hundred percent drug addicts and should be rounded up and sent--involuntarily--to some isolated place where they wouldn't annoy the upright citizens. We disagreed pretty vehemently on this possible, but parted as friends.

After we said goodbye, I stopped into the library and--I can't help myself!--and bought three more books. I now have seven I haven't read yet, but I dove into some shortly. Walked home and just futzed around with this and that, then checked Facebook...

...oh, no! Ellen posted that her cat, Gwennie, has not bee.  home since Monday. Unfortunately, she still hasn't and as of yesterday, Thursday, she had been three days. We're all hoping against hope she gets in, but sadly, as time goes on, it seems less likely. 

My sleeping pattern is persisted, it seems, for better or worse: I go to bed between 9:30 and 10, wake up for the usual about 3:00, then lie awake for another hour, finally getting up at 6:15 or close to it. Guess I can live with that. 

 

WEDNESDAY

An interesting day, if hectic at times. Before breakfast, I stripped the bed and put the sheets in the dryer as I often do. When I heard the washer stop, I went to put them in the dryer and realize they hadn't fully drained. I wasn't sure what to do, so I just pushed the start button to run it again. Unfortunately, it filled with water, but then stopped. I had to call maintenance and Fabian soon came over. He fixed it right away, telling me the motherboard had needed adjusting. (Motherboard?? What is it, a space ship?) However, it's working, so no prob.

Ellen called and we chatted about this and that. She asked if I'd like to get together on Monday. Hey, is the Pope Catholic? Does a bear....? Yes, of course, and I'm looking forward to that. 

The Uber driver picked me up at 12:30 for  my dermatology appointment in Oxnard. It took only fifteen or twenty, so I had to wait for a bit, but that was all right. For some reason, I had been very nervous and apprehensive about this.  Why? Because I remembered that years ago--about seventy, in fact--I remember that my mother-in-law had a hole in the nose because of skin cancer; it was very unsightly. For me, though, Dr. Sui just sprayed it as usual, and it should be okay. 

I bused from there directly to the post office, as my tenant had sent back the initialed new lease with the higher rent on it. I had received a notice about it, so wanted to pick it up. To my annoyance, I was told I had to have identification with my picture on it and I didn't. I walked all the way home and on way, picked up a six-pack of IPAs at Von's. Got my passport, made lunch, and walked all the way back. Stopped at Von's again from there for strawberries, cereal, pizza, and cottage cheese, then trudged back home to put them away, went back to the middle and finally, at 4:30, sat down to have lunch. 

Home, and I was at the laptop about 5:00 when my nephew texted from Chicago. Would I let his daughter, Amelia, "interview" me for a school assignment.* Well, sure, and she facetimed me shortly thereafter. It was great fun and Amelia enjoyed it, too. After we hung up, I texted Wes, for Amelia, my doll, Linda, her trunk, and the sticker on it. I mentioned that when I was her age, 13, that was the name of the country now called "Thailand."

💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫

Regarding the non-death of Betty, I go this email from Pat R. and forwarded it to Carolyn and Wes:I got this from Pat R. re the non-death of Betty puzzle:

Apparently the person who called everyone is Bobbi Murphy.  I knew her and her twin sister Carol (now deceased) in the 70s.  They graduated with Betty at Misericordia.  Apparently Bobbi is blind and now lives in The Villages in Ocala, Florida.  I don’t know where she got her info.  I think that’s all we’ll ever know.

TUESDAY AND MY TWIN

It started out an ordinary day. Did a color wash and a few other chores after breakfast. I searched for, and finally found my HSHS yearbook--will go over it to try to identify those in the reunion picture. Filled out and addressed my great-grandson's graduation card, added a check, and set out the the post office to mail it.   

At the P.O., I heard someone call my name and turned around to see my new-ish friend, Esther. She and I had lunched at Wood Ranch a few months ago, but I had lost track after. She's the former nun who  left the convent, married, and I get the impression, left Catholicism, also--not sure. She said she'd give me a call later and she did. She said she was packing to visit her daughter at her ranch in Grass Valley a few hour's drive away, but we'll meet up for lunch when we get back. 

I was walking home when the phone rang. It was my friend and sister Blogger, Pat R., with startling news: She had gotten a communication--I think a text--from an acquaintance who had heard from a friend that "Betty Byrne" had died. For a second, I was actually speechless. I had seen Betty on Tuesday and she seemed no different than usual. Pat filled me in that this person knew Betty as a nursing student at Misericordia. I immediately called niece, Carolyn, but she wasn't home, so I called Villa Alamar, where Betty lives. Talked to her nurse/care person and found that, of course, Betty is fine.  Called Carolyn back and told her the story. 

Later, I called Pat and we had a long, good talk, ranging over a number of topics. I got filled in on the death report--who called whom--and decided I'd see if I could pursue the puzzle. I looked up Betty's Facebook page and checked out those who were listed as "friends" who seemed to have a connection with Misericordia. That included the aforementioned, Diane L.O., Mary Beth G., Margo G., Margarite R.G.H., Mary O., and Pat H. I Messaged them to ask if they knew the source of the rumor. I did not mention anyone's name, including sister Blogger Pat. R. I just checked and so far, haven't heard back. If and when I do, possibly because they don't use Messenger. If I hear back from anyone, will post it here.  

MONDAY

 Up at 6:15, washed, then sat down to my usual routine on this laptop. That means I top off this blog, do Wordle, Connection, and Blossom, record them in a little notebook--(oh, don't ask, I never show them to anybody, I just do it and I don't know why, so shoot me!)-- then check my email, read my friend, Pat's blog, and go into Facebook. After, I have breakfast.  

Yesterday (after, of course, the two crosswords and the cryptograms) I started on food prep. Using my good ol' Chop Wizard, I chopped several pounds of onions and the sweet peppers left over from my little soiree on Sunday. I then cut up about a pound of tomatoes, combined them with the onions, seasoned with the usual, and popped them in the oven. These are my signature roasted tomatoes and onions, that I've been making for years. I then julienned another pound or two of onions and, together with the extra peppers, stowed them in the freezer for a later meal. 

Wrote and sent a get-well note to Julie's friend and my acquaintance, Regina S., who recently had surgery for intestinal cancer. Looked hither and yon for my HSHS yearbook and finally found it. I'll see if it can help me identify the classmates in that reunion pic I posted recently. Took my lunch and book out to the middle and enjoyed reading in the lovely sunny, seventy-ish weather. 

I had told my children I'd look into a medical alert device in lieu of moving elsewhere and I've been getting a slew of texts and phone calls from various companies. Finally talked to a rep from a particular company. I had a lot of question to ask and was answered to my satisfaction. I'm not nearly ready to make a decision on this, but am beginning. 

I also responded to a research place in Irvine (about a two hour drive from here and had a long conversation with a very knowledgeable rep. This study concerns memory loss, in which I'm naturally very interested. Not sure if I'll pursue it or not.

I set off for Telephone Road and the 11 bus about 4:45 for dinner with Soaring Spirits at the Barnes & Nobel shopping center. Stopped into B & N. first, as Mike had given me a gift card and I wanted to see what they might have. I looked at a few things, but didn't buy--I'll go back when I have more time.

There were only seven of us, but we had a good time. As ever, Vera took me home and on the way, told me something that threw me for a loop: A couple who are good friends of hers and acquaintances of mine are getting a divorce.  That was just one more marriage that seemed to be made in heaven--as the ones closer to me had. Vera and I  discussed it for some time and I commiserated with Vera, as the couple had been very good friends of hers and they're now on the outs. So many marriages and other life circumstances seem to be pretty facades--it's a shock when the real truth is revealed. 

SUNDAY

 I spent some time cleaning up a few more things and prepared the appetizers for my little happy hour. I sliced the red and green sweet peppers into strips and paired them with the green pepper hummus Took the shrimp out of its container, along with the sauce, and laid them out on a platter. I added one of my baked apples, cut into slices. Also put out "Dot's Home Style Pretzels" and Ritz-like crackers. I decided not to add the lunchmeat turkey I had bought, as Suzanne is bringing meatballs.

Took a break and went out to the middle with my hard-boiled egg sandwich, IPA, and my Norman Solomon book. I'm absolutely absorbed with War Made Invisible. It's so utterly right on concerning our tendency not to question what we're told by government and media. Also, Vickie sent Suzanne and me the new Pope's address. It was pretty predictable how we should love each other, no matter what we may not have in common. I hope it wasn't just a string of cliches and that it will turn out to be a new era of peace.

Back home, I showered, washed my hair, and laid out what I could on the coffee table. Lit a few candles, even thought it was still broad daylight out--I just like the way they look. Vickie came at 5:30, followed Suzanne a few minutes later. Vickie brought some chocolate covered coconut candies, Suzanne appetizer turkey meatballs and, later, the makings for strawberry shortcake. I didn't need, nor did I particularly want the additions, but I appreciated the thought, so why not?

We three then proceeded to eat, drink (they brought their own non-alcoholic beer; I had my IPA), and generally have a great time. We talked and laughed for almost two hours, catching up with each other's lives, backgrounds, childhoods, thoughts, and hopes. Here we are, no beauties maybe, but inwardly, my two friends are gorgeous human beings:  

                                                            💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝

I put this picture on Facebook of Betty (on the right) and me, as we were about to leave for a show on Ventnor Pier. There, we recited a little verse of mine about "a sailor boy." If I remember correctly--and I may not--it was a Tony Grant revue. We never went to his dance classes, but he allowed others to perform.  I actually remember posing for this picture on our side lawn, c. 1945.

💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝

SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2025

DAMN! I had first published this entry when I got up, then noted a typo, reverted to draft, and updated it. It posts, all right, but it posts as May 17, instead of the eighteenth, which is why I put the correct date in the title. I don't know why or how to change it, and I guess the world is still turning, but it's so annoying. 

As promised, I called Jeanne after breakfast and we had a good long talk discussing the reunion picture. Although there were only twenty  alumni there (husbands, including mine, either graduated in a different year or went to different schools), neither of us could remember all the names. I'll check my yearbook and see who else I can identify--once I can find it, that is. Annoyingly, I can't remember where I put it. Will keep looking.

Jeanne and I also exchanged family news. We both have gay granddaughters and she texted me a pic of hers at her bridal shower; she'll marry her fiancée in the summer. The brides-to-be are in the middle, Jeanne's granddaughter in white, and their mothers are next to them.*

It's so very refreshing that differing sexual orientations are accepted, even embraced. If anyone tried to force me to be gay, I'd fight like crazy, but why is it anyone's business if others are gay? Of course, if someone follows a sect or group that declares it to be sinful, that's their problem.

I spent a lot of time the rest of the day on cleaning up the place, as I'm having Suzanne and Vickie over this evening for Happy Hour. Washed the bath rugs, dusted and mopped the hard floors, vacuumed, dusted the furniture, and otherwise prepared for my little soiree. Went over to Von's (I should sleep there!) for shrimp and a few other things to serve. Met Lorraine in the way and chatted for a bit. 

In the evening, I called Ellen and was happy to hear things are going well with her house sale and house purchase. Can't wait to see the inside of her new place.

* Their MOTHERS?!?  They all look like teenagers!

FRIDAY

Disaster on the weight front! Having gained a pound at home (to 129.4), I was teetering on the edge of my comfort zone. At T.O.P.S., I actually fell over: gained 1.5, which took me to 130.2--AAGH! 😨Okay, I'll do better. 

The meeting was, as usual, meandering. I brought my new Norman Solomon book, War Made Invisible: How America Hides The Human Toll Of Its Military Machine, mainly to show Mary Ann and Cheryl. Both are pacifists and so are their husbands. Leader Lennie announced that she won't be attending for the next four weeks, as she's going to visit her sister in North Dakota, then taking some grandchildren to Greece. Hey, that means we'll have quicky meeting and who knows how many will be there. 

Home after ten and I put in a wash, including the bath mat, so didn't get breakfast until 11:00. That was okay because I wanted to go into town with lunch later, plus get plant milk at Von's. As I was on my way, Lorraine called. She asked me to pick her up some ice cream sandwiches, which I did. When I came back, she met me in the middle and we chatted for a bit. I feel sorry for her--she and "Junior," her husband, seem to have a pretty remote relationship--he travels a lot, for one thing. Anyway, I asked her to let me know when I can take her for a farewell lunch. 

After that, I went home to make lunch, packed up, and bused to town. I ate at my usual place across from the mission, then stopped in a few shops. Bought some cloth wine carriers for gifts: one says "Liquid Therapy," the other "Great Minds Drink Alike." Cute, and I'll probably give Diane a bottle for her birthday. 

Speaking of...Diane texted me while I was on the bus, asking what day I'm available for lunch. Hmm...I've got Susan and Vickie for Happy Hour on Sunday, Soaring Sprits dinner on Monday, a  dermatology appointment on Wednesday, and T.O.P.S. on Friday (although I guess we could go after) . Hope she can do Thursday or we'll have to try for the weekend.  

Home about 6:00; before dinner, I came across the picture below in "Photos." It's a reunion of my  HSHS class of 1954; I don't even remember what reunion year it was--could it be the fiftieth, so 2004? I'm standing in the middle, between two classmates in white, and Jeanne Dollard Painter is seated second from left. I messaged the pic to Jeanne to ask who all was still around, but she said I probably knew that better than she did. Asked me to call her and we'll talk about it--I will today. 

THURSDAY

Just a so-so day. Did two loads of wash and again went over the Von's (that seems to be my daily trek); got practically everything on my list except IPAs, for which I'll probably look elsewhere.

Home, I put things away, then did a few household chores. That included discarding most the the flowers I had been given for Mothers' Day, as they were are as dead as my birthing days. I did salvage some greenery and two flowers, hardier than others. I also did two loads of wash, color and whites. 

I had intended to bus into town and take my lunch there, but I just didn't feel like it. Instead, I took it out to the middle ate it there. It was nicely sunny and warm, but a bit too breezy for my taste. However, I stayed, reading my book in the quiet afternoon. Most of the people that live here were are at work and the kids were in school, so it was quiet, but pleasant  as always.  

Later, I was pleased to get a call from Vickie. A week or two ago, she had alerted me to a series of one-act plays at the museum--admission is free and they're on several evenings in June. She got tickets, and I'm looking forward to going with her. We'll decide what evenings later. T.O.P.S. this morning--ugh, I'd rather go back to bed.

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I found this beauty on my brother's post, 1937. Betty was a platinum blonde!

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WEDNESDAY

After the usual morning things, I went over to Von's to pick up apples and several other items. Came back, put them away, then went out to meet Julie at 11:30. The Victoria Pub is only about a mile away, right down Victoria Avenue, so we got there in a few minutes.

There were about twenty of us all told and it was much fun. I sat next to Dusty, who was in my acting group, and across from Lynn; with her husband, she owns the The Greek at the harbor, a restaurant I've visited several times. 

Chatted with lots of my companions, including those mentioned, Angel, Lenora, and Barbara. I ordered the chicken/vegetable pasta with Alfredo sauce, which was very good--had a hazy IPA with it, natch. I used to go to the Vic Pub fairly often years ago and I enjoyed it so much, I want to go again. I'm third in on the left-hand side of the table on the right (got it?): 

 Got home about 1:30 and immediately made the roasted apples I like so much. I just core them and season with Stevia and cinnamon and they're yummy:  

I found that smaller cottage cheese containers are just the right size for the apples, so I put them in and stowed all four in the freezer to enjoy later.

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I came across this gem below from 52 years ago. The attendees were her nieces and nephew, great-nieces and nephews, and great-greats. Shown here are, front left,  baby blonde Carolyn's daughter and front right, my Alison, Mike, and Ellen. Party was held at Betty's big house on Atlantic Avenue: 

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TUESDAY

 Niece Carolyn picked me up at 10:00 and off we went to Santa Barbara. On a warm and sunny day, we went directly to Villa Alamar. When we got there, Betty was in the shower--or, I should say, being showered. We waited a short time, then an attendant walked up pushing my dear twin sister in her wheelchair (to my knowledge, Betty no longer walks). She seemed pleased, as far as we could tell, to see us and we three went into her room. Carolyn found Betty's hair dryer and dried her hair while we talked. Betty responds to questions and comments, but her responses make no sense. Still, we enjoyed the visit. Brother Larry called me while we were there and we help up the phone while he talked to her; it's doubtful, of course, whether she understood.

After 45 minutes or so, it was time for Betty's lunch, so we rolled her down to the dining room. We lingered a bit there, then said goodbye. I was proud of myself, as I told Carolyn, that for the first time at the end of a visit, I didn't cry. Here we are yesterday, both of us looking like residents of the funny farm:

We then accompanied Betty to the dining room for her lunch, kissed her goodbye, and went off to lunch ourselves. We ate at a restaurant at the golf club, enjoyed cheeseburgers and continued our far-ranging, satisfying talk--mostly about family matters, past and current--which we had started when she first picked me up. Carolyn drove me home and I got in about 3:00. It was a good, good day, as it always is when I'm with my girls or my twin sister's girl.

BCNN lunch today with Julie and others at the Victoria Pub.

Annoyed Note: Darn, for the third day in a row, I haven't received the paper. Talked to a rep and was told I'd get all three today. So far, at 6:33, I haven't. Now I'm seriously thinking about dropped it, it's so frustrating. Oh, but how I'd miss the crossword puzzles and cryptograms!

MONDAY

 Before 10:00, I had washed my sheets, changed the bed, done a color wash, and refreshed the water in my two big vases of flowers. Had breakfast, then packed a lunch, and walked to Wal-Mart. There, among other things, I got a new lunch sack (or whatever it's called), a pizza cutter (I only rarely eat pizza, but when I do, cutting it with a knife or kitchen scissors is messy), as well as face scrub and a few other things. 

After, I crossed Victoria Avenue to enjoy my lunch in the gathering place near Ralph's; it was a lovely warm day again. The birdies were enjoying it, too:

Bused home and did this and that, then took my book out to the middle and read there for a bit. What I did the rest of the day, I barely remember, but it didn't include a nap, at least. Unfortunately, I had trouble sleeping; got up just now at six-something. Hope my coffee will perk me up. 

Looking forward to niece Carolyn coming at 10:00 today to pick me up and take me to Santa Barbara to see Betty. 

SUNDAY--MOTHERS' DAY

 After my usual Sunday obligation*--weekly med and crossword puzzle--I walked with my cart and cane to the bus stop to get the 10/16 to Ojai. Ellen picked me up at the Von's stop at noon and off we went to her place. We spent a pleasant hour chatting, then enjoyed the yummy lunch she had made, a good ground meat, cabbage, onions, cheese, and spices stir-fry and cucumber salad. 

We then drove over to her soon-to-be new home (assuming all goes well) and what a surprise! I had seen pictures on Zillow, but they didn't  do it justice. Her present house has three bedrooms, this has two, but it has more square footage. Why? Because the room are much larger. The living area, with large windows is in kind of an L-shape that flows into a dining area, which flows into the kitchen.  And that kitchen is to die for: white with black trim and a center island roughly six feet long. One end is a good-sized dining area and at one end of the living room is what could be another.

The primary bedroom is off the first area and the primary bathroom opens from that. Nearby is the other bedroom; the second bath is nearby and also is a guest bath. The whole place is newly done--I like the floors especially--and all the windows are new. 

There are some items of concern, but El is negotiating with the owners to resolve them, just as she has had to remedy some problems for the buyers of her present house. Anyway, the deals are close to fruition and I fervently hope she gets the place. If so, she will pay cash and her living expenses will be roughly half what they are now.

We went back to her house and sat chatting on the porch with Margaritas. Greg came over about 3:00 and after good conversation, we put on our gin rummy hats and played until the Access Ven came to take me home. Got in at 6:00 after a very enjoyable Mothers' Day.  

*Why does that phrase seem so familiar? 😄

SATURDAY

I'm happy to record that I slept well, getting OOB (I copied that from my friend, Pat!) at 6:15. Just after breakfast, I was pleased to get a phone call from my niece, Chrissy. My oldest brother, Jim, and his wife, Therese, adopted Chrissy and her brother as infants. Chrissy is retired after being a CPA for Foreign Aid for years; she and Paul and had lived in Thailand, where my son, Mike visited her. Jim and Therese had moved there; both died several years after.

Chrissy was calling to say she and Paul had moved from their condo in Florida to their house in Virginia and had come across a lot of family memorabilia from my brother. She said she considers me the family historian, so did I want it? Oh, yes, I surely do; happily, rather than sending it, Chrissy plans to visit California and will bring it with her. We talked of other things, too. Chrissy married late and has no children, but her husband's daughter recently died and he's having a hard time dealing with it. 

Shortly after we said goodbye, I got a call from another niece--Carolyn, Betty's daughter in Santa Barbara. I consider her a niece/daughter (diece? naughter?)  and love her dearly. We talked for some time and decided I'd go to see Betty on Tuesday. I said I'd take the bus, but Carolyn insisted on coming here to take me.

After, I packed my lunch and walked to Telephone Avenue to get the 11 bus, but just missed the one I intended to take. Texted Diane that I'd be late and got the next one, so didn't get there to meet Diane until 12:30. We had our usual lunch and long, long, talk, filling each other in on our doings and our family's doings. I left about 3:00 and stopped at Grocery Outlet for a few staples. Home at 4:00 or so. 

The weather was perfect: wonderfully sunny and warm, but with litttle humidity. It ranged from the high seventies to the eighties and, I understand, will be the same today and, as ever, even warmer at El's in Ojai. She called to say she was making a certain dish for our Mothers' Day luncheon today, plus cucumber salad. Sounds yummy. 

Mike facetimed me while he was walking on a 16-mile path through the woods. However, he was walking only (only!!) six miles. Enjoyed talking to him and hearing the latest about my granddaughters. At college, Vivien and her group won first prize in a video project. She appeared in it, too, and truly was very good; I hope she auditions for stage work sometime.  

"FRIED" DAY

"Fried" in the sense it got hot as hell--a nice change from the coolness, seems to me. Cheryl picked me up for T.O.P.S., as usual. As for weight, I stayed the same from two weeks ago--128.4--and lost .04 at the meeting, to 128.7. There were only four of us there, but happily, one was Bev, back from Minnesota where she had gone for a memorial service for her brother. She was the biggest loser at four pounds off, but we were sorry to hear she probably wouldn't be continuing. Her husband's cognitive problems are worsening and she has a lot more going on in her immediate and extended family. Bev is a committed Lutheran and she received a number of these at the service and brought them in to share: 

                                

Without mentioning my religious beliefs--or lack thereof--I asked for two. Next week, I'm going to have Suzanne and Vickie over for one of our long-delayed Happy Hour chat sessions and I'll give them each one. On a whim, I asked the others if they knew what scrapple was--none of them did--oh, how deprived the poor souls in California are!

Approaching my door after the meeting, I found another lovely Mothers' Day bouquet. Since Ellen had given me one, too, I decided to combine them. I think they came out beautifully:

For a change, I had scrambled eggs and toast for breakfast--'twas yum--then moseyed around with this and that before packing lunch and heading out to the middle. It had gotten wonderfully warm and sunny and I enjoyed sitting there eating my sandwich and reading War Made Invisible, a book that's so damn true, it hurts.

I was glad to realize when I woke up just now, that I had slept well; I hope the RLS is over. Texted Diane to be sure we're still on for lunch today--we are and will eat at the park across from her place after I take my donations to Goodwill.  

THURSDAY

Yesterday was as day I hope never to revisit, so I'm not going to go into detail; I'll just sketch it out. For openers, there were all kinds of terrible things wrong with this laptop, such as ads coming up on the right side constantly, one after another. There was much more, but I won't list them. I took this baby over to Asurion to fix before I walked to Telephone Road and boarded the 11 bus to the DMV to get me "Read ID," as it's call. (I read that you can't get on a plane without it or a drivers' license."

I was fearfully early for my 12:30 appointment, so had to wait. I had taken my passport, figuring that was sufficient. It wasn't and after filling out an application, I was told I needed two pieces of received  mail with my name and address on it, so I'll have to go back.

Bused from there to the transit center and then to town. Stopped in some thrift stores to pick up two vases, as the bouquet gave me is so large, I want to enjoy them in other rooms. It was very quiet in town and I enjoyed my lunch at my usual spot. However, after I sat down, I realized I didn't have my hat. I must have dropped it somehow, when I was added my purchases to my cart. I just didn't feel like going back and looking for it, so I didn't.

Home at 4:00 and unloaded my card, then took it over to Asurion to get my laptop. Bryce gave it to me and I gave him a tip (I pay $29.99 a month for Asurion, which is well worth it to me, but I like the guys, so always tip.) 

I was tired by then and was happily looking forward to my favorite game, Match Royale, so sat down to get into it, but damn--it wasn't there! Using some choice words to express my annoyance, I packed up the laptop again, loaded it into the cart, and took it back. Bryce brought it up again and I went back home. 

By that time, it was 5:30 and I was pooped. Played a bit of my fav (it's a pretty moronic game, which is one of the reasons I like it--when I play most games, I don't want to think. The exceptions are the three games I play every morning: Wordle, Connections, and Blossom.

Well, I didn't mean to go on at such length, but maybe it was cathartic. Now I'm going to have my dinner--I'll top this off, as usual, tomorrow morning--

--which it is now. Unfortunately, I again awoke at midnight with RLS. Not sure why this happens, but I may consult Primary Medical one of these days. 

WEDNESDAY AND BCNN

 Julie picked me up at 9:00 and we went to the BCNN meeting. A new neighbor of Julie's. Katheryn Something, met up there and sat with us. She and her husband had had a ranch outside Monterey for many years, with lots of horses; however, he died and she moved ot Ventura just three weeks ago. Gave her my card, as she expressed an interest in T.O.P.S. (she's considerably overweight) and she may join. We had a good time talking and I'd like to see her again. 

Speaking of seeing people: I heard someone say, "Hello there!" and turned to see Joanne, Ellen's friend and former colleague at Olivelands school. She has joined BCNN and I told her to get El to join.

The program was by an organization that trains guide dogs for blind and otherwise disabled people. Although I'm about the least doggie-loving person around, I actually found it pretty interesting. I hadn't realized that dogs can also be trained for autistic children and diabetics. Also, there are people who foster the dogs (labs preferred, as they seemt to be most amenable to training) until they're 18 months old.  

We didn't go to lunch after this time, which was fine with me. Home, I was making lunch when Suzanne stopped in and we had a nice chat. She had gone to a gala for St. John's Hospital, where she used to teach--it was a very fancy and expensive affair at some big hotel in L.A. It included an "auction"--the kind where weathly people show their generosity. I was amused when Suzanne told me there was a puppy up for bid; the succesful bidder got it for ten thousand dollars.

It was warm and sunny, but the wind was strong, so I lunched on my own patio. I was so pleased when Ellen called to say she was right outside the door and could she come in? Of course, honey, and she brought me these beautiful flowers for Mothers' Day: 

Even better, she sat down and we talked for 45 or so. She brought me up to date on her present house, which she is selling and the one she is buying. I'll see her on Sunday, too, of course, so that will be a further treat.  El said her friend, Joanne, had already called to say she had seen me at BCNN.

Took the trash out, then picked up the mail. Annoyingly it included a returned card, which I had sent to Diane six days ago. Now I can't remember what the card was for--not her birthday, I know. Well, we're meeting for lunch on Saturday, so I'll let her open it then.

Also in the mail was this book I had ordered from Amazon, by a well-known pacifist, Normon Solomon. Since propaganda pervades our world and how we all respond to it, lackeys that we are--I know I'll find it interesting:

 

 

TUESDAY

Busy day, although not with anything interesting or fun. I spent quite some time on the revised lease for my tenant. Wrote a letter to accompany, made copies of all, then walked to the P.O. to send certified mail. Stopped after at Von's--that seems to be a daily habit--to get eggs and stuff. 

Although it was overcast and not exactly warm, I again took my lunch and my book to the middle and ate it there. After, I took a short nap--yep, that's getting to be a habit, too, I'm afraid--then set to work making cabbage fritters. That took a good hour, but now I have a nice supply in the freezer after enjoying three for dinner.

Showered and got my clothes out for today's BCNN meeting. It's supposed to be warm, almost 70, and I'm glad about that. What I'm not glad about is the fact that, although I haven't been bothered with RLS for months, it came back last night with a vengance. It woke me at about midnight and I was up half the night, finally getting to sleep about 3:30. Somebody told me it was a neurological problem, but I don't believe it--I think because I'm concerned about the lease thing, it's a manifestation of that. Darn, I hope it doesn't persist.

MONDAY

Took the 6 bus to the transit center and the 11 from there to get to the Stone Fire grille. I was early, so stopped first in Barnes & Noble looking for Mothers' Day cards. They had some, but without exception, directed to one's own mother. Unfortunatly, mine is long gone and they had nothing for those I wanted to acknowledge: my daughter, daughters-in-law (one ex), and the mother of my great-grandsons. Left and went to Michael's, where I saw no cards at all. Then it was noon, time to meet the Soaring Spirits gang, and I did. As ever, it was a good group, nine of us, and we're all comfotably familiar with each other, so it was a pleasure; I had a peppeoni pizza and my usual IPA. 

After almost two hours of good talk, we said goodbye and I went over to Kohl's, where I found some nice cards. Bused home and immediately wrote out and stamped the ones for Tokyo and Singapore, then walked to the mail boxes to send them off. It'll be a miracle if they get there in time, but oh, well, I always seem to send things late.

I got something from Amazon from son Mike, which he had told me was coming for Mothers' Day. As instructed, I'll open it on Sunday. 

I have a free day today, so will spend time on a list of chores I haven't had a chance to do. Tomorrow's the BCNN meeting, Thursday I go to DMV for my new I.D., Friday I have T.O.P.S., Saturday, lunch with Diane; Sunday, I assume I'll be with Ellen....

...who called about 8:00 and we had a good, long talk. The progress on the sale of her house and the buying of the new one is getting along, but there are still some hurtles. Can't wait to see it!

SUNDAY

The day started out poorly, but turned out not bad. I hadn't gotten to bed until very late for me (having been at the play) and slept until the alarm went off at 7:00. Took my weekly med and was dragging until I revived a bit with coffee. Dressed in my docent outfit and gathered up some pertinent things. Got the usual "Access Van will arrive within six to twelve minutes" and==I swear--I was out front within that time. Waited and waited, finially called and was told it had been there and left. I don't know, I must have taken longer than I thought to get out there, but I was livid. Called Lynne, director of docents at Dudley House, and she said she'd pick me up. She did and we got back there just about at opening time at 1:00.

Actually, it turned out to be an enjoyable day. I conducted four (or five--don't remember) tours, two with children, which is always fun, and it went well. In between times, I chatted with Kathy B., the greeter, who is one of those non-stop talkers. She's had a lot of difficutlies lately--broken arm, flooded house, etc.--had a hard time getting up the steps. I had the idea she was maybe in her nineties and was amazed to find she's ten years younger than I am! Wow, 78 is tantamount to the teenage years, it seems to me, but maybe I'm a little skewed.  😆

Lynne took me home and I perked up my ears when I told her about the play at the Santa Paula Theatre the night before. She said she'd love to go there sometime, but had nobody to go with. Hey, I'll give her a call when the next one comes up. Got in about 5:00. Changed and tidied up a bit, then made a sandwich, took an IPA out of the fridge and went to the middle to eat it and continue my book. It was a little cool--61--but there was no wind, but it was enjoyable. It was past 6:00 by that time, so I considered it a linner meal (lunch plus dinner, of course).

Lunch with Soaring Spirits today.

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Pat and me at a party at the Boca Raton Club, Florida where he worked, c. 1956.

I put this pic on Facebook with others of the glamour couple, ciggie always in hand, I'm afraid.  

SATURDAY

Whew, I seem to be back in action. Felt pretty good (although I have a lingering cough) when I got up. Had only oatmeal and coffee for breakfast, then showered. I thought it was better not to wash my hair--I've done it before thinking a cold is gone and have relapsed--but it felt good just to wash the bod.

Went over to Von's and snapped up various crackers (yes, I'm still addicted to salty carbs), plus the good stuff, namely tomatoes, cauliflower, and apples. Once I got home, I sliced the tomatoes (I like to have them ready to add to sandwiches), cored and seasoned the apples, and prepared the cauliflower for roasting. The latter is one of my favorite dishes and I decided to just have that for lunch so I wouldn't be un-hungry for dinner before the play at Enzo's.

Julie pickerd me up and off we went to Santa Paula, first for a yummy lobster/pasta dinner. Enzo's is an old-worldly hotel/restaurant and you'd swear you were in nineteenth-century Roma:

We were there until a bit after 7:00, then drove the short distance to the theatre. Waited for a bit, then got our seats--second row in the middle, a great choice. 

And what a fabulous show! It was an extremely fast-paced, farcial comedy involving marriage, extra-marital affairs, and all kinds of shenanigans among the six characters. Anthony and Alphonse were simply terrific and here they are:

Alphonse is third from left and Anthony is seated. Sixth character is off-stage.

Anyway, it was hysterically funny and the players were all top-notch. After, when the cast greeted the audience,  both my pals gave me big hellos and hugs. It was such great fun and made me wish to look around for an audition.

The only negative is that I didn't get home until almost 11:00. Watched something on the royal princes while I had a baked apple, then hit the sack. I actually slept until the alarm went off at 7:00 and oh, boy, I wish I didn't have to gear up for docent duty, but I can't back out now. Okay, it's now 8:00; took my once-a-week med and am just hanging on until I can get my coffee--hope I'll bouce back at Dudley House. 

FRIDAY

What went on yesterday? A whole lotta nothin'. Since I had skipped T.O.P.S. and lunch with Diane, I went out only to get the mail. Otherwise, I fooled around on this laptop, talked to Sharon and Cheryl on the phone, and read more of The Dark Side of Camelot. 

Ellen, that dear girl, called to see how I was doing and, happy day, it seems she's closer to getting her house sold and the one she wants bought.  Lorraine also called just to say hello. 

I sent my tenant an email explaining that my rent would be increasing by a percentage and that I felt I must raise hers to an extent. Haven't heard back from her yet. 

I'm feeling quite a bit better, but maybe not quite up to par. Took only one Theraflu dose, as I didn't feel I needed it every four hours. Had lunch with an IPA, then napped for about an hour. 

Something I have got to do today is look over my docent talk for Dudley House, which is tomorrow. Boy, I haven't led the tour for months and I need, as ever, to refresh my memory. I also need to get out my outfit to properly dress as Caroline Dudley in 1892.

THURSDAY

I'm feeling a lot better, although still not out of the woods; the Theraflu really seems to do the job. Unfortuntely, I'm again having major problems with this laptop. I didn't want to go out yesterday (aside from taking the trash out), but today, I'm determined to go over to Asurion today and consult the guys about it.

As mentioned, my whole daily routine was topsy-turvy, what with breakfast at 11:00 and lunch at 3:00. I did do a color wash and otherwise cleaned up a bit. My first-time friend, Valarie called, to tell me she and her husband had gone to the Rubicon to see Bonnie and Clyde, The Musical. She said it was terrific and she highly recommended it. When Ellen called, I asked if she wanted to see it, but she was lukewarm, so I'll mention it to Julie when I see her tomororow. She (Julie) called yesterday to firm up our dinner and theatre date in Santa Paula; she'll pick me up at 5:00. To me, that seems really early, since the show doesn't start until 8:00--three hours for dinner? Well, okay, it's Enzo's and the Italians do it that way, don't they?

El called again later in the day to see how I was feeling--much better, thanks. I called Cheryl to telll her I wouldn't be going to T.O.P.S.--just don't feel like it, plus I have the excuse of my cold. I may, though, keep my date for lunch across from Diane's--depends on if I keep feeling better. 

Okay, now it's 7:00 am on Thursday; slept well and just got up. My cold is still on, so I decided reluctantly to cancel my lunch date with Diane. Sent a comment and emailed her; will call her later to be sure she got the message. 

Sharon called to say she won't be at the meeting, as her legs are bothering her. Since I won't either, I'm not sure if more than Cheryl and Lennie will be there, but I guess he world is still turning.  

WEDNESDAY AND A CODE

I'm afraid my code (hack, hack) is a real, old-fashioned bad code. I found one dose of Theraflu and took that in the morning, which helped a lot. Other than that, I laid low through the day. Ellen had seen on yesterday's entry here that I was ailing. She had a doctor's appointment over here and after, we had planned to go to lunch, but that, of course, we had to scuttle. She called and I asked her to send me the Redfin info about the house on which she had put a bid. It's very nice, has a kitchen to die for, and I hope she gets it. Later, I asked her to buy and drop off Theraflu, which she did, both the day and night version.

Suzanne called to ask if I'd like to go to WinCo, but nope, not with this code. I worked up a tentative letter to my tenant and sent it to my four advisors (the kiddies, of course) to see what they think. Mike is in China, so it may take a while for him to respond. 

Aside from that, I just made a half-hearted attempt to type up the T.O.P.S. minutes. Did it, but I'm sick of being the secretary-in-waiting and somebody else can do it next time.

Later in the day, El called to bring me up to date on her podiatrist visit and also, the ins and outs of her house sale and house-hunting. Luckily, the inspection went well, aside from some minor concerns. 

Didn't have lunch until 3:00 and after that, I took a two-hour nap. Boy, am I draggin' because of my code, but I guess I'll survive.  I did little else except play Match Royale, practically all day. 

AAGH! Now it's 2:51 AM and I awoke a few minutes ago. Actually, I feel a little better, so I think I'll fool around on the laptop for a time, then go back to bed. Placed an order for Norman Solomon's War Made Invisible: How America Hides The Human Toll Of Its Military Machine.

Went back to bed, slept until 9:30, got up and put on the coffee, then Ellen called and we had a long, satisfying talk about her house, her house-to-be, and Bob Newhart. It's now 10:41 and I'm going to take a Theraflu, have breakfast (almost three hours after I usually do), hang out, and wait to recover. Actually, although I may sound bad (somewhat hoarse), I feel okay, and believe I'm on the mend.