THURSDAY AND DENIZENS OF MISERACORDIA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*Married name, which I won't list. 

WEDNESDAY AND JIM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

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

                                                         

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SUNDAY AND AN AUDITION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SATURDAY

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

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

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

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

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

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞

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

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞

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

FRIDAY AND WAR DEJA-VU

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THURSDAY AND NAILS D'ELEGANCE

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

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

TUESDAY AND "WIDER" IS BACK.

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

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

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

But Peroni's is still closed--sob!

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

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

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

SUNDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SATURDAY

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

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

The mural in the back of the room:

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

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

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

FRIDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

                                  

Vickie took a better picture of the corpse after:

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

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

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

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

*Actors Equity

THURSDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

MONDAY

A frustrating morning: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SUNDAY

Followed the usual Sunday schedule: Took med, changed bed, then fed--myself breakfast, that is. The crossword was so-so, but not too bad. After, I fooled around on this laptop. For some reason, I felt a little draggy, plus it was cloudy and cool so took an hour nap after lunch. Happily, when I got up, I was energized and took off for town, although it was already 4:00; at least, it had warmed up to upper 60s.

I took two books back to the library and got two more. Stopped in the store where I often buy staples and picked up paper towels and tile cleaner. At another shop, there was a group of young people--they looked like college kids--one of whom was buying two odd looking knitted items. I couldn't imagine what they could be, so I asked.  They all laughed and one young lady answered: "They're boobs," she said. So funny and I asked one of the guys with them if I could take a picture and here it is: 

I said, "Sexy!" and they all howled.  

After that, I just strolled around, enjoying the day. Walked to the bus stop and luckily, was able to get the 16 home. Just had a bowl of black bean soup and broccoli for dinner. I'll take the Access Van to visit Jim tomorrow and maybe will bring cookies or something for the residents. 

SATURDAY

Put in a load of wash when I got up this morning, and was greeted with a gastrointestinal problem. I don't want to go into detail, but I'm now going to refresh my memory re what's good to eat if you have "the runs," as it used to be called.  😞 I found the BRAT recommendation, i.e. bananas (I don't have any), rice (I'm add it to dinner), applesauce, and toast made on white bread. Well, all I had was applesauce, so I had a small cup of it, the commercial stuff, for breakfast. I do have some good homemade baked apples and I assume they'd be okay, too.

Met Noreen at Danny's Deli at 12:30, after stopping at a nearby shop and picking up some birthday cards. Happily, I had recovered from my ailment, so ordered a half-sandwich and soup combo. Soup was cabbage, which I like a lot, and sandwich was liver--yum!--and I got a good hazy IPA with it. Noreen and I had long, deep talks about family matters, some happy, some not. We also started talking about Trump (she's one of the most avid Trump-haters I know) and discussed him and his ilk. I said I'd send her Chris Hedges' article on the theme of how the country is now run by idiots  and I did. 

Home about 3:00 and I just kind of lazed around. Unfortunately, after I printed out the article to send Noreen (she doesn't do computers), I put something else in to print and the paper jammed. I tried and tried to get it out, but no luck so far. 

Was just having a late dinner (Lean Cuisine) when Mike Facetimed me. He was calling to invite Ellen and me to Vivian's college graduations--on May 16, 2026, at U. of Hawaii. Yes sir, sure thing, can't wait. El then called and she likes the idea, too. She's still getting things packed up and dealing with the upcoming move, of course. She'll actually make the move on \Tuesday and invited me over on Thursday, to which of course, I'm looking forward.  

FRIDAY

 Again, there were only three of us at T.O.P.S.: Cheryl, Sharon, and me. I again took what passes for minutes and since they consisted mostly of Sharon's monologues, I'll pad it out a little. As for me, I lost a whopping .06 at home to 129.6 and .05 at the meeting. I'm still in the over-130 danger zone, but only by .05 of a pound.

Home at 10:00, breakfasted, then tidied up a bit. Got texts from Suzanne and Vickie about our sojourn last evening. Suzanne and I will leave at 7:30 and Vickie will meet us there. Suzanne suggested this because her fibro-something is bothering her, so she'll leave at intermission. 

I made a list of what birthday cards I need and there are lots. Coming up in June are my son's and daughter-in-law's in Japan, great grandson's, and those of my friends, Lora and Noreen.  I had some cards on hand,  and went to CVS for others. Stopped at Von's on the way back for a few little items. 

I had been meaning to call Noreen because she's the one person, I think, who will understand that I'm still unhappy about my break with Diane. Amazingly, when I did, Noreen said she had been just about to call me. We immediately made a date for lunch at Danny's Deli today.  

The Improv show was great fun; here are a few pics from last night:

A few years ago, when we attended before, I was so wowed I considered seeing if I could audition to became of the member of the troupe. Last night convinced me I just don't have the knowhow, let along talent to go that route. Suzanne left at intermission--her knees were hurting--and Vickie took me home. We had a long talk about two topics that are related: My falling-out with Dianne and Silver Crest, where she lives. After I introduced Vickie to the idea, she applied, but it's been about five years and she's still thirty-fourth on the list. There seems to be something questionable about the operation and/on the resident manager--not sure.

Put in a load of wash when I got up this morning, and was greeted with a gastrointestinal problem. I don't want to go into detail, but I'm now going to refresh my memory re what's good to eat if you have "the runs," as it used to be called.  😞

THURSDAY AND THE NON-NUN

I did an annoying amount of phone calling after breakfast, including three concerning Jim: Following  the lead Vickie gave me, I called the Public Guardian-Conservator to ask about how to locate his possessions (no luck); called the police and got the same "that's not our department" answer; called Jim himself to say I'll stop in to see him on Tuesday and it was nice to hear him say he's looking forward to it. I also called SCAN, my health insurance, to see if they'll cover a medical alert device and was greeted by one of those idiotic "live chat" things. "It" or whoever it was, took my email and said they'd get back to me; I'm not going to hold my breath until they do. Called Express Scripts to re-order Ramipril, but then looked again and found I have more.

After that, I was happy to make my lunch and take off for town. It was very quiet and peaceful yesterday, but I prefer a fair amount of bustle. It was cloudy, it got warm and I enjoyed my lunch at my usual spot. Stopped into a shop and bought a blouse.

Home at 5:00 and settled in. Coincidentally, considering recent history between Diane and me, I got this from one of my alternate press sources: https://scheerpost.com/2025/06/05/criminalizing-homelessness-doesnt-work-housing-people-does/  I considered sending it to Diane, but thought better of it. 

Today, there's T.O.P.S., of course, and in the evening, Suzanne, Vickie, and I are going to the Improv show--I'm greatly looking forward to that.      

                                                      🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆 

I had put that picture (below) of my non-nun mother on Facebook, asking if anyone had a clue as to what order her habit might represent. I was thrilled to hear back from Annette Thompson and Sarah Hitzeman.                                                                                                                              I had put that    This from Annette: There are a few orders who wears blue habits; here in Copenhagen: The Sisters of St. Joseph - and generally they are referred to as 'the blue nuns'.I don't know where these are situated; but the Order of the Most Holy Annunciation (Turchine or Celestine Nuns), the Order of the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady at Paris (Blue Nuns), the Sisters of finding Jesus in the Temple, and The Sisters of Mary Immaculate Queen, also wear blue habits.

This from Sarah:The order called Sisters of Finding Jesus in the Temple wears habits that look very much like this. Not an exact match, but like Annette said, blue is a common habit color. There are many depictions of Mary wearing blue and white, and it might be related to that.

At first glance, I thought these Sisters were wearing the same habits, but now I'm not so sure. Their wimples completely cover their hair, for one thing and it doesn't look as if Non-Nun is wearing the pendent the others are. Also, her collar looks blue to match the wimple, but that could be the poor quality of the photo. I'm going to pursue this further. 

🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆 

WEDNESDAY AND A MYSTERIOUS PHOTO

Did another color wash as soon as I got up because I wanted to wear a particular pair of jeans that were in the hamper. Julie picked me up at 9:00 and off we went to the Oxnard Yacht Club. Katherine sat with us--she's the one who lives near Julie, who also introduced her to T.O.P.S. Katherine has a commitment tomorrow, but will bring her application form next Friday. 

As for the BCNN program yesterday, it was about the Taft Gardens, founded forty or so years ago by an amateur naturalist, now 91 years old. His granddaughters run the place, which is way up in the hills over Ojai.  I know I've gone past it and might want to visit it some day. Unfortunately, although there were slides and a video, for some reason I found it boring. I like gardens and was mildly interested at first, but somehow, this just didn't connect. I'm not sure why I took it, but here's a pic:

 Ellen's friend and former colleague, Joanne, was there and I chatted with her. also with Dusty, Judy, and a few others.  

Lunch was more fun. We went to Tradewinds Cafe and I had a chicken Caesar wrap, recommended by Pamala. There were about twenty of us and, as usual, I was the only one who ordered an "adult drink," I guess that's because the rest were driving. Across from us sat Elisa, who's from--ta da!--Freehold, N.J. Both Pamala and Elisa are Jewish and I asked if they follow Moses and Zippora, an Orthodox couple (he's a rabbi) who explain their form of Judaism on Instagram. They do and I said their customs make about as much sense as some of orthodox Catholicism; they agreed and we laughed over that. 

Home at 2:30 and I didn't feel like doing anything, so I watched something about Princess Diana on the television (T.V in the daytime, good grief!). I got bored and took a half-hour nap, after which I perked up. I realized I had only one international stamp and I need two for the boys in Asia. Walked to the P.O. and got a supply and mailed the cards.                                                     

🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆

This came up spontaneously yesterday in my e-mail from "One Drive, Your Memories From This Day." It's from five years ago and is the absolute image of my mother when she was maybe in her sixties--but she was never in the convent! I simply don't remember the circumstances, but I put it on Facebook to see if anyone has any clues.

🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆 

TUESDAY

Lorraine called right after I got up at 6:30. She and "Junior," her husband, have moved to Santa Clarita and when I asked how she likes their new apartment, she said it isn't an apartment, it's a house. I was taken aback, as I didn't think they could afford a house. Then she told me it has two floors, four bedrooms, two and a half baths--what?? I can't understand how they can afford that in a pricy area like Santa Clarita. I also don't understand why they would want something that large, especially after she told me it was three stories. Sometimes I wonder if Lorraine is always factual in what she tells me.

Monday, June 2, was the anniversary of my father's accidental death seventy-five years ago. Here he is on our front porch on 15 South Rosborough Avenue, in Ventnor. Not sure what year this was, but surely in the late forties: 

I always found this a haunting picture. He looks as if he's startled by seeing something--the future, maybe, and his pending death at 51?--or maybe I just have an over-active imagination. 

I had made up a list of what I wanted to do yesterday and I did all of them: Washed, trimmed, seasoned and roasted two pounds of mushrooms; juiced three lemons, then put them in the freezer to save for pie or cookies; mixed my saved coffee grounds with soil and added them to the ground around my tomato plant; swept the patio; preserved some liquid from cooking veggies to use later in the slow cooker; and typed up the minutes from the T.O.P.S. meeting.

Had my lunch, then took a short nap. I got an email from Vickie with the job description for the county's Deputy Public Guardian-Conservator and that seems exactly what I need to get Jim's questions answered. I'm going to call today after I get back from the BCNN meeting. I'll ask to go the office and ask my questions face-to-face.     

😾😾😾😾😾😾😾😾😾😾

Now I'm annoyed with Wordle. Yesterday's solution was "admin"--what? I got it in four, but isn't that an abbreviation? I looked it up and yes--according to Merriman-Webster, yes, it is, so what gives, puzzle maker? 

MONDAY

 I have no recollection of what I did early in the morning aside from libations and breakfast, but about 10:30 I took off to Telephone Road. It was nicely warm, with a slight breeze, but overcast, which I find objectional, but to whom should I complain?

Got to Stone Fire Grille at noon for lunch with the Soaring Spirits gang. Fewer than usual, only six of us attended, but we had a good, convivial time. In answer to Vera's "how are you?" I responded with the good news (Gwennie's return) and bad news (my falling out with Diane). The latter became a topic of discussion, and understanding (not "you shoulds") was expressed. We then turned to other topics, including Gayle's recent eye surgery to correct her myopia (I had that done twenty of so years ago).

We didn't break up until 2:00; then I went over to Barnes & Nobel. I still haven't spent the gift card, but didn't see anything I really wanted. Think I'll look on-line. Stopped then at Trader Joes, but didn't see anything there, either, so bused home.

I was thrilled to get a number of photos and videos from Tokyo son. They featured his boy, Mr. K., now eleven and truly a tall and handsome boy. I miss them so much; would love to plan a trip to Japan, but I'm afraid that's probably not going to happen. 

Now I'm debating with myself whether or not to go over to Great Clips and get my hair cut today. I greatly dislike getting my hair cut but it's really much too long. Tune in tomorrow for this exciting decision. 😉

SUNDAY

I reverted back to my once-a-week sheet washing, so stripped, washed, and remade. Took my osteoporosis weekly medication, too, then settled down for Frank Longo's Sunday crossword. I'm getting seriously annoyed with Frank--yesterday's major clues were so obscure, I didn't do well at all. Here's an example: "British runner-turned-Baron's two-door auto," fourteen letters. Another: Nickname for a division of America populated by wolves," also fourteen letters.  Anyway, I did very badly.

Left that aside and put five chicken thighs and a number of different seasonings in the slow cooker. The recipe called for broth, but I didn't have any, so used water and just added a few other spices. Left them on low to cook and took off for town. It was unusually quiet for a weekend, but nicely sunny and warm. I browsed around a bit, then enjoyed my lunch at my usual place across from the mission.

Got in close to 5:00 and was greeted by a wonderfully appealing aroma from the slow-cooked chicken thighs. I usually don't have dinner until 6:30, 7:00, or even later, but these were irresistible: I sat down and ate two of them. Showered after.

I couldn't resist taking a picture of the beautiful rose Suzanne gave me. She has several rose bushes, plus other lovely flowers, including Christmas cacti, hydrangeas, lilies, and so on; she's a dedicated gardener, unlike her lazy neighbor. Here's Rosemary's rose:  

                                                      

SATURDAY

Did a color wash early on, then hopped in the shower before breakfast. Later, I called Muckie and later still, my cousin, Sally. The news from both was mixed, but it was fun to chat.

Stella texted to ask if we were meeting at noon or 1:00; I told her we had said noon, but either was fine with me, and we decided on 1:00. I took my cart and set off at about 11:45. Trader Joe's is in the same complex, as Spring Garden Chinese, so I stopped there for mandarin oranges.

I hadn't seen Stella for several months and I was a little alarmed at her appearance. She was nicely dressed and groomed, as always, but it looked to me as if she's lost a considerable amount of weight. Anyway, we ordered and I had a Sapporo with mine, the Japanese beer I used to order at Jasmine Thai.  Stella, as always, had plenty of pictures on her phone. These were mostly of her son, Joshua, who is a dancer and Yoga instructor and lives in Spain with his girlfriend. I've met him and he sent me a "hello message." 

After we ate, Stella asked if I wanted to go with her to midtown to see some townhouses. She had a large house on a big property in Oakview and I've often wondered why she would want to be saddled with that much responsibility at 85. Well, she doesn't now, so we went to look at some new homes. They were very nice--and, of course, very pricy--but all were either two-or three-stories. Good grief, the rooms have very high ceilings, which means the stairs are very high. I took some pictures of the lower-level of the two-bedroom, just to liven up this entry:  

Anyway, we toured the different ones and enjoyed it. However, if Stella ever does decide to move, she'll have to sell her present house, so it won't be anytime soon. She dropped me off at the transit center and I bused home. 

Mike, just back from China, Facetimed me after dinner and I was pleased to hear that he and Vivian will come for Thanksgiving. Great, they can see Ellen's new place and, I assume, stay there. He's also going to London next month and Vivian will meet him there, stay for several days, then fly back to college in Hawaii.  Violet  will go on a school trip to Thailand shortly, then to Savannah for her "Rising Star" session at the College of Art and Design. As I've mentioned before, when I was their ages, I was lucky to get to Philly. 😜But hey, I'm thrilled and overjoyed my granddaughters are having such experiences.