THURSDAY AND THE MEDICAL REPORT

A somewhat busy day: the Uber from SCAN picked me up at 9:30 for my 10:00 re my blood pressure. I saw the P.A., who was very pleasant and seemed competent. She recorded my pressure as 136/82, which is somewhat elevated, but she said that, concerning my age, it didn't seem reason for concern. As for the elevated one at the emergency room, the doctor there wrote it was most likely because of my worry--or something. The problem I have is that I can't seem to remember what my BP is; maybe I just resist knowing because it makes me nervous--dunno.

Took the bus home, had lunch outside, then did a color wash. After, I called Muckie, as I've done several times in the last few weeks. This time, her son, Matt, answered and told me Muckie was in the hospital, as she had had an attack of some time. They don't believe it's related to the cancer, but is due some other malady. Matt said she was a little out of it, but he's optimistic. Good, I hope so. I called Pat Kennedy (oh, I know her name was Hayes and now it's something else, but I'm goin' with the original) to tell her. We had a nice chat--Pat's doing well since she had her heart shocked a while ago, because it was "fluttering" or something. 

I also haven't heard back from my cousin Sally, about her condition, also pancreatic cancer, and I texted her son, Duane, to see what was going on. Got a response that Sal doesn't always answer her phone and she's been sleeping a lot. He said he'll visit her over the weekend and will give me an update.  Damn, I never want to know more about medicine--my pressure would really soar!

I sent info on the show to a number of friends, including those in T.O.P.S., Dudley House, and BCNN, plus others. I included a Facebook reel of Woody Guthrie singing "Deportees," about a plane crash in 1948 that was shipping people back to Mexico. "The Low Attention Span Band," in our show will play it and I don't think there'll be a dry eye in the house.

I have a bunch of filing to do, but what I really want to tackle is getting off book.  After T.O.P.S., I'm going to demote myself to that today.  

Slept well for a change, but I'm pretty sure I've gained this week. Well, the hell with it, I have other things to think about. 

WEDNESDAY

Washed the sheets and changed the bed, then got ready for Ellen's arrival. She got here about 11:00 and we left for first, the bank where I had business, then Wal-Mart just to pick up some necessities, then Wood Ranch for lunch--that's getting to be one of our favorites. El had a gorgeous salad, I a loaded baked potato, which we accompanied with a lot of good talk. Next, we went to Miramar Eye to pick up my new glasses. 

Co-incidentally, El had just stopped at her eye doctor's to her new peepers--I like her frames better than mine, but I don't really have a grave preference. Home and we unloaded, then chatted for a bit. She ran through my lines with me, then we parted again.

Called SCAN Transportation to have them take me to Primary Medical today to discuss the blood pressure rise--or whatever it is. Called Noreen, we visited for a bit, then made a date to lunch next Wednesday at Danny's. Prepared to meet Kay outside at 5:45, so she could take me to rehearsal. This doesn't look too exciting, but we're getting down to the wire:

We stayed later last night and I didn't get home until--gasp!--close to 11:00. Stayed to continue watching an idiotic thing on Lee Harvey Oswald and the assassination. Good thing I slept like a stone, as I have a doctor's appointment at 10:00 re BP. No wonder: I'm still not off-book and better buckle down or...or else!

MONDAY AND TUESDAY

MONDAY: El picked me up at 11:30 and off we went Costa Mesa. It took us three hours, as we stopped for lunch at a nice place about halfway there. Here's El:

Got to the house that Paula's family rented and hugged her and Violet hello. Her brother and sister-in-law, Andy and Cindy were there, along with their two daughters, Michelle and Katy, plus Michelle's husband, Lyle, and their daughter, Julie. We first chatted for a bit, then went to a Cuban restaurant called Habana. Of course, there are many Mexican restaurants here and throughout California, but Cuban cuisine is not common. I had a fish dish and it was very good. Here we all are on Monday night:

From left: Ellen, Paula, Cindy, Andy, Katy, Lyle, Julie, 11, Violet, 17, and me. 

After, we went back to the rental and had some long, good talks. I slept in the fourth bedroom and El stayed at a Ramada Inn nearby. Slept pretty well and got up at my usual time.

TUESDAY:  Up at 6:15 and found Paula in the living room watching a "Dateline" program on multiple murders in Albuquerque. We sat and talked for a bit, instead, then got ready for the ash-scattering. The others got up, Ellen came in, and we all left for the ceremony, which was several miles away in Huntington Park.

As we drove in, we saw the Navy people practicing folding the flag in the parking lot:   

Below: Paula, Ellen, Violet and me:

I didn't get many pictures on the boat, but here are a few and I'll add some more from Ellen later. Here's Paula on our way out to sea:

Part of the quasi-religious flag ceremony:

After, fooling around in the parking lot with my gentleman friend:

Andy treated us all to lunch at Duke's, named for the well-known Hawaiian (Samoan?) surfer. then we said our goodbyes. 

I'm so glad the mother of my granddaughters and I are on good terms. Home about 5:00 and said goodbye to El. She'll be back today, as she wants to go to a shop here, then will take me to pick up my new glasses. Rehearsal tonight and Erica emailed a cleaned-up script; had to ask El to print and bring it with her as my printed is still crapola. 

SUNDAY AND THE PENTAGON

After the day that went on Saturday, I had a pretty mild one yesterday. I did first a color, than a white wash in the morning, had breakfast and worked the crossword. Unfortunately, after being so avid for so many years, I'm beginning to lose interest in it; I'll just have to find another pursuit. Later, I finally Bona-mopped the hard floors and washed the area rugs.

El called and she'll be over to pick me up about 10:30 to day for our overnight in L.A. It will be good to see Paula and, especially, Violet. Not quite sure just what our accommodation will be, but I think Paula, Violet, Paula's brother and sister-in-law will be at a rented house and El will stay at a motel. Packed a fairly small suitcase to get ready. Luckily, it's so much more convenient to go somewhere by car, as you can bring so much more. I had been pondering whether I should take the laptop, but decided why not? I can just stow it in the car.

Ran into Leah from upstairs, and Mike from the other upstairs, and the three of us chatted for a bit. Mike is an accountant and vice president of a avocado business and just got back from Guatemala where, he said, avocados originated. We said goodbye, then I made my lunch and took it to the middle to eat. However, it was so windy I didn't even sit down, but went home and ate on the patio. 

By that time, it was after 3:00 and I took a nap. Hmm...this is getting to be a habit and, as I'm mentioned before, I'm a little apprehensive about it. It's true, I feel refreshed after, but I don't want to sleep my life away. (Oh, Mimi, quit worrying about every little thing!) Off to L.A. in  few hours!  

WIDER:  It's hard to believe that so few remember Eisenhower's warning: In a new study issued by the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft and the Costs of War Project at Brown University...consider this: in the five years from 2020 to 2024, 54% of the Pentagon’s $4.4 trillion in discretionary spending went to private firms and $791 billion went to just five companies: Lockheed Martin ($313 billion), RTX (formerly Raytheon, $145 billion), Boeing ($115 billion), General Dynamics ($116 billion), and Northrop Grumman ($81 billion). And that was before Donald Trump’s Big Beautiful Budget bill landed on planet Earth, drastically slashing spending on diplomacy and domestic programs to make room for major tax cuts and near-record Pentagon outlays... https://scheerpost.com/2025/07/28/entering-a-golden-age-for-war-profiteers/

SATURDAY AND A DAY TO REMEMBER

Well, fellas and girls, yesterday was interesting. Got up at the usual, poured my coffee, and sat down at the  laptop, figuring I'd top off Friday's entry, as usual. I had barely started when I realized my right arm, about from wrist to elbow, felt numb. Since "Horrified Alarm" is my middle name, I immediately assumed I was having a stroke. Feverishly tried to decide what to do and, being already partly dressed, I pressed the button on my medic alert. It was answered immediately and my stats--name, address, symptoms and so on--were solicited. I opened my front door and remarkably quickly, two young men were at the door, then four others came in. I was asked to sit on the couch, I explained my symptoms  and my vitals were taken and recorded.  They then gently helped me onto a stretcher and off we went to Community Memorial's emergency room.

There, all kinds of other tests were done and I was carefully questioned. I assume this is standard procedure and it included being asked my name, address, and age about twenty times, I guess to test memory. The finale was the scan (of my head) and no cause for alarm was shown (aside from the BP, which I'll address with Primary Medical).*

 Dear Ellen came to pick me up about 2:00 and we went immediately to the Wood Ranch for lunch, then home. Home, we were sitting on the patio and chatting when we heard a loud, kind of explosive sound from the direction of Telegraph Road. It didn't sound like a backfire to me and Ell saw a flash of light. Later, the electricity went out. It was still only about 4:00, so we just thought it was unrelated to the flash, but now I think it is. Of course, you never appreciate the lack of utilities until you don't have them anymore, and boy, I don't like being dark.

Got out my battery operated light and settled in to wait it out. The Vickie called and we decided to get together to talk over the situations. I hauled out a number of candles, lit them, and we sat on the couch discussing this and that. She's going to her high school graduation in Maine today, while El and I will drive to L.A. to scatter ashes. Incredibly, Vickie was born two years after I graduated from high school--well, it seems incredible to me. As she was leaving, Suzanne's kid brother, Glen--he's a doctor n San Diego--came up and we said hello.

Okay, that was yesterday, Saturday, July 26, and this is Sunday, July 27, at 12:42 p.m., and I'm going to hang this up. 

*I can hardly express how kind, competent, and solicitous the ambulance crew, doctors, nurses, and all other staff were at the hospital. I sometimes forget that, besides working to earn a living, people I've met in that profession have been the same. They should be proud and Ventura should be proud of them.

🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅

But forget all the travail--my tomatoes are growing up--YAY!

🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅

FRIDAY

Golly gee--I lost four pounds at home to 128.8 and at ;[h03.9 at T.O.P.S. to 129!  However, that wasn't enough to be declared the biggest loser, as Sharon lost four. Oh, well, I'm below 130, if barely, so I'm okay with it. There were just five of us and it was the usual meandering meeting. Home at 10:30, had breakfast, then just did nothing much until I went out and Elsye picked me up at 1:00. Incredibly, she was neither the drop-out nun nor the woman who lives on Poli Street. Instead, she was one of my table mates from the BCNN lunch after the June meeting.

No matter, though, we had a good time. Elsye was born and brought up in Canada, married and moved to the U.S. and Jersey (Freehold), is Jewish, has a husband with a kidney transplant, no grandchildren. Her only child, a son, owns the Flying Trapeze in Santa Barbara, an exercise club for adults and children.  

We talked and talked and talked. Much as I like California and Californians, it was refreshing to be with somebody who had actually heard of Ventnor. Elsye dropped me off at 3:30, I stopped for my and Suzanne's mail, then took a short nap.

THURSDAY

Hoo, boy, I never seem to finished with "paper work" involving laptop, phone, and actual paper. Made appointments for blood tests in September and November, compiled a list of problems involving the printer and laptop--I must get over to Asurion soon--and contacted Amazon to have a gift card sent to Vivian, whose 21st birthday is next Tuesday. I accomplished a few other chores, too, but mostly, I spent time studying my lines. Erica wants us off-book as soon as possible, of course, and times a-wastin'--in exactly two weeks, we open.

Elyse texted me and said she'll pick me up at 1:00 today for lunch. She asked me to decide on the restaurant and that poses a dilemma: I still don't remember whether she's the one with whom I lunched at Hill Street Cafe or at Wood Ranch. I'm pretty sure it's the latter and that she's the ex-nun, birth name Esther, whose daughter has a ranch in Grass Valley.      

Took a quick showered and dressed to get ready to catch the Amber Express to rehearsal. We did the first act, which includes my "Heart's Desire, my piece, and it went well. Mandy came up with a terrific idea: making a reel to put on social media announcing the show.  She asked us to video ourselves and she'd take care of the rest. I'm not sure what I'll do yet, but I'm working on it.

Speaking of...here's darling Keke, who does some wonderful dances with her big brother, Zack.  Next week, they're going to perform in Disneyland! I wish I had let the camera run longer:

WEDNESDAY

 Did a bleach wash in the morning and darn--I was wearing my light blue top when I put it in the dryer.  Somehow during the transition, I got bleach on the bottom of my sleeve, so now it's not wearable unless I put something else over it. Oh, well, it wasn't a particular favorite, anyway. 

I spent a lot of time typing up my script so I have more than one copy. But Mimi, why not just duplicate the other one? Because the damn printer is acting up again, that's why. I called Ellen, who suggested I send it to her, she'll copy, then give it to me on Monday, when we head to L.A.

Packed my lunch and went outside to wait for Uber. I was picked up at quarter of two, which meant I was pretty early for my 2:30 eye doctor appointment. Miramar, where I go, is a very busy place and I didn't get in until after 3:00. However, it went okay; SCAN will cover five hundred or something of the cost, and my part is only $127.00.

Walked from there to the mall, not more than a mile or so, and ate my lunch in the center. Stopped at Target on my way out for grapefruit and stuff. Home about 5:00, got Suzanne's and my mail, then settled down to go over my lines.

Rehearsal today at 6:00. 

WIDER: Having, in a modest way, spent 27 years in academia, the following by Chris Hedges caught my attention:

https://scheerpost.com/2025/07/23/the-end-of-academic-freedom-w-maura-finkelstein-the-chris-hedges-report/  

What kind of world have we become?

TUESDAY

Went over to CVS for teeth products and a few other items, using the SCAN OTC health benefit, which covers a certain amount. Yesterday, that was only part of my purchases and I paid eighty bucks out of pocket. That was no problem, but I knew I had an additional $150.00--why didn't that kick in? Called SCAN and was told that's specified for vision, which works out fine, as I'm being examined for new glasses today.   

I'm beginning to think I should move into Von's; after CVS, I stopped there for oil spray. Home, I prepared my cauliflower via my favorite recipe: par-boil, roast for about a half-hour, then spread with half-mayo and half parm--yum! I couldn't resist having a portion before lunch, then made my hard-boiled egg and tomato sandwich and took it out to the middle to eat. 

I called Muckie again and am getting a little concerned since a few days ago, I left a message and haven't heard back from her. Will try again, then maybe try to look further. Called my cousin, Sally, and had the same "not available now" response. I'll see if Duane or Ani might have some info.

Erica sent us all a fun reel from Mandy about the show, which I shared on Facebook. For some reason, it will only come up here with this: https://fb.watch/A-xbicNRQe/?mibextid=wwXIfr. 

I finally gave up trying to get my Werther's sugar-free candy. I had ordered it on June 28 and Amazon sent me e-mail, saying it would arrive on July12. It didn't and I got the round-around in various ways. Finally got to an Amazon actual person and will be refunded my $21,00 with an Amazon gift card. Damn, why is modern life so complicated?

Eye doctor appointment at 2:30 today; SCAN Transportation will have Uber pick me up.

MONDAY

Washed the sheets and changed the bed before breakfast, which I didn't get to eat until almost ten. I then spent a lot of time studying my lines. I appear in two acts and am pleased I have a fairly small part. My days of memorizing entire plays are over, I'm afraid, and this is a fun role--I even get to say "asshole," which I know will get a laugh. 

Called brother Larry and we had a good long talk. At 92, he's now using a cane, as well as a walker. He  walks almost every morning with his oldest, his daughter, Elaine, and her dog. He's certainly still as mentally sharp as ever; I guess I am, too--at least to an extent. Must be because we both smoked two packs a day from our teenage years and, in Larry's case, drank plenty of booze before he kicked the habit.

I got a text from my friend, Elyse, suggesting we get together for lunch one of these days. Sure, I'd love to, but incredibly, I don't remember who she is. Is she the ex-nun who came out and married outside the church and whom I met at a BCNN meeting? Or is she the one who organizes the outings for the group? Dunno, and I'll look at my blog to see if I can be enlightened.  Did so, but I didn't find her name. HA--maybe I had lunch with her and never got her name! Also Called SCAN Transportation to arrange a pick-up to take me to my eye doctor appointment tomorrow.

Update: Okay, I just looked up the Wood Ranch, and found that in May, I had lunch there with Esther, the Sister of Mercy. I wonder if "Elyse" is a nickname--I sort of think it is. Well, she and I texted back and forth to hit on a date when we're both free; it's Friday, when I have T.O.P.S., so I suggested we meet at 1:00.

Rehearsal: Last night, we did blocking setups and boy, was it tedious. Erica gave us schedules she had devised and printed out and we ran through the whole thing. Not an actual rehearsal with dialogue, of course, but walk-ons and offs, it took the whole three hours. (Erica had mentioned last time to bring  pencils--always the rebel, I brought a pen 😉) to take notes.) As the show is "a show within a show, so to speak, it entailed the two locations, set up in a kind of L-shape, with the main stage to the left. The audience faces "backstage" where most of the action takes place. Anyway, we walked through it with a lot of changes and corrections. Tedious, yes, but absorbing, as we concentrate on making this the best show ever.  

SUNDAY

All day, I was pretty much on the move physically, mentally, emotionally

all day. Called Bobbi after breakfast and was given some ominous news: Her husband, Henry, has a malignant brain tumor. Wasn't that enough for that couple? No--Bobbi herself, who's two years younger than I am, has been diagnosed with breast cancer and it has spread throughout her body, including to her ribs. It sounds to me as if she doesn't have much longer and I'm so sorry about that. She's from Brooklyn and as a teenager, had been an au pair one summer for a family in Ventnor. We have a bond, then, and I hate to lose it.

While we were talking, Noreen called just to say hello. We agreed we'd meet at Yard, a restaurant on Main Street I've been wanting to try; we'll just have to maneuver around our schedules to find a day. Considering she plays cards and Scrabble several days a week, and I have rehearsal Saturday mornings, Monday evenings, plus  alternate Wednesdays and Thursdays, it won't be easy. 

I called Muckie, but her answering machine was on; I left a message, but haven't yet heard back from her. 

Packed my lunch (a sandwich of hard boiled egg, avocado, and tomato), plus diet Coke* and bused to town. Went to the library to pick up The Friday Afternoon Club/A Family Memoir, by Dominick Dunne's son,; bought a small black purse to take to rehearsals; and ate at my usual across from the mission, Stopped at Von's on the way home to get carrots, apples, and "mini" cans of soda. 

As soon as I got in, I scrubbed, trimmed, and seasoned the two pounds of carrots, fired up the oven and roasted them. At the same time, I cored the apples, sprinkled with cinnamon and Stevia, added a little water (darn, I wish I had thought of O.J., instead), and put them in the slow cooker.

I then called Sharon and we had a long, long talk. Lewis is still working on getting his license back, and Sharon is still more or less housebound. She's hopeful she'll get to T.O.P.S. this week, but that's iffy. Yes, she has a number of children and grown grandchildren around, but they work and I guess aren't available. I've told her about the Access Van, but for some reason, she resists. It seems when people aren't familiar with something, they reject it or are apprehensive. It's hard to cure yourself of that.

Rehearsal tonight and we're supposed to be off-book. I've been running over my lines, but need to concentrate on locking them in. 

* I've decided to lay off the IPAs and other alcohol, at least for a time. Not only is it high-caloric, but I have the idea it doesn't help my balance, either. Hmm...now why would I think that, anyway....? 😟 

SATURDAY AND SO ON

Slept until 6:15, had coffee, but skipped breakfast. Amber was a little late picking me up, but we got there before the serious work started. We didn't go over our individual pieces, but concentrated on the two skits. I was pleased to find that Amber and Erica had met to revise the third act to include a much larger part for me. It's pretty funny and I like it. Here are some of the gang in one of the other playlets, a take-off of Desperate  Housewives, written by Shannon; at the end, players throw water at each other:  

               Left to right: Mandy, Kierra, Inna,* Suzy,**and partly obscured, Jonathan.***

Amy took me home and will do so regularly when Amber (who isn't one of the players) is no longer  coming.  Put in a color wash, had lunch, then spent time on computer/paper/catching-up chores. Went over to good ol' Von's (that lousy crap joint) for cauliflower, other veggies, oat milk, and the following, which, naturally, I could not possibly resist! 

I got a call from my cousin, Sally, whose ninetieth birthday I attended in January. Here she is at that happy time: 

                                                   

Sally just got back from the Grand Canyon last week; her daughter, Teresa, took her and posted this on Facebook:

What she had to tell me wasn't happy at all, though: She has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and it is active. I'm not sure if it's newly discovered or not. I didn't want to ask her too much, but will call her again in another few days. She is on hospice and I think is home. She lives alone, though, and I wouldn't be surprised, if she's now at Duane and Ani's big house where I stayed in January. Damn, she and Muckie, too. They're both ninety, but so what? I don't want them to go...

Ellen called after dinner just to chat. She's looking for a contractor to enclose her side porch and, so far, hasn't found anyone she wants to hire. Greg came in while we were on the phone and we exchanged hellos; we'll get together soon.

* Inna is from Ukraine, has a strong accent, is over six feet tall, and is a damn good comedic actress.  

** Suzy is a singer, in a trio with her husband, Steve, and James. Suzy and Steve are in their seventies, but full of pep and they 

*** Jonathan is in his twenties and comes from Morristown, N.J. He's talented and funny. 

FRIDAY, MY EYES, AND BACKSTAGE BEDLAM

A pretty active day, starting with the weight news. It wasn't good, but could be worse: Up 1.2 to 132.8 at home; up a pound to 132.6 at T.O.P.S. Besides Cheryl and me, only Maryann and Lennie were there. We talked mostly about political stuff (there were anti-ICE rallies yesterday, which both Cheryl and Maryann attended), plus I mentioned the show opening on August 15. I suspect Lennie, for one, won't go, as the infamous "F word" comes up in the show and I mentioned that. Personally, it doesn't bother me, but something else does and I'll try to discuss it with Erica and Brian today before rehearsal  

The T.O.P.S. meeting didn't last long, but for some reason, I didn't have breakfast until almost 11:00.  After that, I took a shower, then got ready for my two o'clock eye doctor appointment. I was very apprehensive, being fearful that my macular degeneration had worsened. Happily, it was found to be stable--such a relief. I made an appointment for January to get checked again, plus one next week to get a prescription for new glasses.

From there, I stopped a few doors away at HEARX. I've been having some annoyances with my left hearing aid; Amanda modified it, and I think it's better. I bused from there to the transit center, then went  across the street to the dress shop. I'm trying to find a white top that will go with my new skirt. Didn't find one I liked, so will look elsewhere. 

I stopped at Vickie's on my way to my place; she invited me in and we had a good talk, ranging over what I'm concerned about, re the show; being gay and her sister's attitude toward it; and lots of other interesting topics. Yesterday was what Vickie calls the "heaven-versity" of Mary (her longtime partner), who died--I can't remember if it was two or three years ago, although I was at the funeral. Vickie is a  Catholic convert, but she'll attend a "Harvest Crusade" in Anaheim tomorrow, run by a well-known fundamentalist evangelist named Greg Laurie. She walked me to my door and we continued talking for another fifteen or so, then said goodbye. 

When I looked into Facebook, I was pleased to see that Shannon had added this poster for the show, which I shared. I'm pretty sure Meredith, our very talented artist, designed it:

THURSDAY

Did a white wash before breakfast, ate, then did some business/computer stuff. Called SCAN Transportation to get a ride to my eye doctor appointment today. As always, I turned down a return trip, as I want to stop at HEARX after, then I'll walk to the bus stop.

Packed a lunch and took off for town. I'm very annoyed over the fact that the town council, in its infinite wisdom, has degreed that the walk-only Main Street ordinance will be rescinded.  I guess I can understand it, though, because the small businesses are losing in the process. Bought a purse, a blouse, and a sun hat, and greatly enjoyed being in town again. Ate a leisurely lunch in my place opposite the museum, then bused home.

When I got in, I made a turkey stir-fry, saved out a third for dinner, and stowed the rest in the freezer. I then went out to get my and Suzanne's mail and ran into Leah (upstairs neighbor) coming home. We had a nice chat, talking over the circumstances of being a thirty-year old working in the coroner's office. She also said anytime I need a ride anywhere or any other help, to please call her---what a sweetheart. Leah expressed interest in my upcoming show and also said she'd like to have me for breakfast...HA! I just realized what I wrote--funny!

Sharon called, poor thing. Lewis took another written test--results aren't in yet--and now needs to do the driving test itself. Since he can't drive yet--if ever--Sharon can't get to T.O.P.S. She sounded so down-hearted and I feel so sorry for her. I'll tell the other T.O.P.S. members this morning. 

Speaking of--I'm not looking forward to weighing in, as I know I've gained and probably quite a bit. Okay, I'd better buckle down and serious--it's about time!

Slept well and leg seems to be completely well.

WEDNESDAY

Slept well and happily, my leg felt pretty good. I can still feel it when I move a certain way, but it isn't actually painful. However, I thought it was just as well not to walk a long distance, so just went over to Von's for tomatoes, avocados, and a few other things. Had a big salad for lunch and ate it on the patio; I thought the breeze was a little too strong for the middle. I called my old friend, Nancy P., whose 87th birthday was Tuesday and we had a good talk.  

Called SCAN (my health insurance) to find out the balance on my OTC account. It's $46.83, plus the yearly $125 which I haven't used yet. Okay, I need eye drops, vitamins, and a few other things, which I'll pick up soon at CVS.

Showered after lunch and prepared my script and so on for second act rehearsal.  I decided to add an opening stanza to Heart's Desire--assuming director approval--and here it is: I want to tell you a story/And hope you can relate/I had a certain kind of life/And then a different fate.  I also want to try adding some comments and asides to the verse. As it turned out, I didn't do it last night, as it had slipped my mind that we were running only the second half of the show last night and I open, so I'll do it on Saturday.

I was pleased to see Amy B. come in after she and family spent a week in Hawaii. She had offered to ferry me to rehearsals when Amber isn't available and will take me home on Saturday. Home late, as usual, so I didn't get to bed until almost 11:00, but slept soundly and didn't get up until the alarm went ff at 7:00. 

Note to self: Just sent a message to Amazon that my order for Werther's sugar free candy did not arrive.  I ordered and paid for it and was notified it would be delivered last Saturday. 

TUESDAY

Ellen got here about 11:30 and we drove to Urgent Care. I was not sure what to expect and overall, was pleasantly surprised. There were four ahead of us, so we had to wait for some time, but the office staff was efficient and friendly. When we were called in, vitals were taken by a nurse named Dennis, then he brought me in the the X-ray room to take several pictures of my leg in various positions. Waited for a while, then Alexis, the P.A. came in to give a verdict: Happily, it seems not too serious. I seem to have pulled or strained something, which will take some time to heal, but nothing is broken. I should continue with icing it, use an elastic sleeve, and take Motrin for the inflammation. The X-rays were then sent to a radiologist, which we were told, works at home, for her/him to review and support (or not, I guess) Alexis's findings. We didn't wait for that, but I'll call today to get it.     

From there, we went to the Wood Ranch for lunch. Didn't get there until after 2:00, so we were both hungry. El got a pulled pork sandwich and I ordered two sides: a "loaded" baked potato and roasted Brussels sprouts and Liquid Candy IPA. We both thought the Brussel sprouts were a little underdone, but rather than send them back, I took them home, cooked them further in the microwave, and enjoyed them for  dinner.  I also took the garlic rolls, which I've had before and like a lot.

El and I then went to CVS, where I got an elastic "sleeve," Motrin, and a few other things covered by my SCAN health insurance. Home, El helped me on with the sleeve, which I'll wear when I go out walking. She said goodbye, after hearing her Mama's heartfelt thanks. 

Greg texted me to ask how I was and we agreed the three of us will have to go for lunch or dinner soon. Sure thing--I always look forward to seeing him. 

Medical Bulletin: Got up this mornings with no pain or stiffness in the knee--hip, hip, hooray! 

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

Joke of the day: I got a kick out of this sign posted at the door to Urgent Care:

Hey, you gotta be careful of those Serbs and Italians, too!

(Sign is in reference to the parking spots, which are very narrow with thick poles on either side.)

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

MONDAY, REHEARSAL, AND MY KNEE

I changed the bed, washed the sheets, and re-made, had breakfast, then just hung out for a bit. Went to Von's for bread, tuna packets, and Lean Cuisine. Took an hour nap, then packed my lunch and ate at my favored place in the middle.  

I ran into Suzanne coming back from the pool; she's leaving today for a retreat and won't be back until August 4th or 5th. Her brother, Glenn, will be staying at her apartment this weekend to water her plants and so on. 

Showered and washed my hair, then assembled what I was taking to rehearsal. That included the script for the skit I'm in. I'm very relieved that I have only a few lines, as I think my days of memorizing a part in a full-length play are over. I did my "Heart's Desire" piece and conferred with directors Erica and Brian about my delivery. I got some good feedback and will incorporate them into my piece. Also, I'm debating with myself whether to approach Erica and Brian about a sketch done by Tracy that I'm afraid will be highly offensive to practicing Catholics. We ran the first three acts of the skit--no title yet--in which I don't appear--will add the fourth tomorrow.

Just now, as I was topping off this entry, Noreen called to apologize for not mentioning beforehand that Gary would join us for lunch on Sunday.  No problem at all, I told her; I like Gary and even though his presence meant we wouldn't discuss some sensitive matters, we can save them for later.

Now the bad news: I thought my knee was improving, but that must have been wishful thinking. Clearly, it's not better and I had to use the cane last night at rehearsal. Called Ellen when I got home and she'll come over to at 10:00 and take me to Urgent Care today. Damn, I hope it isn't too serious.    

  

SUNDAY

Did a color wash in the morning, then just fooled around with this and that until I boarded the 6 for Danny's Deli. Got there a little early and sat on the bench outside  until Noreen arrived. Shortly after we were seated, a man came over and joined us. It was her friend (boyfriend/gentleman friend?), Gary, whom I'd met before. It was nice to see him and the three of us had a good time. Gary will turn 89 next month, which I was happy to hear--it's always satisfying to meet somebody older than I am 😁.

Ordered a half pastrami sandwich and matzo ball soup (they add chicken and veggies), along with--natch--a hazy IPA 🍺. Noreen got turkey with gravy and champagne and Gary--well, he got something, but I can't remember what. Anyway, we had a good time together, although Gary has had a difficult time: his sister died recently and his brother has serious health problems 😞. As for his immediate family, he hasn't seen his son for twenty-five years, but I think he's in touch with his daughter. We hugged goodbye two hours later, then I walked the two blocks to the bus station, and got the 10 home.    

I finally remembered to send a birthday gift to my great-grandson, whose 23rd birthday was last month. I had sent a card, but it just slipped my mind to add the gift; via Zelle, I sent him cash. I've got more birthdays coming up: granddaughter Vivian's 21st on the 29th and Tristan's 18th a week after that. 

I signed up for some kind of T.V. thing because I was interested in a documentary on the Idaho University campus murders. After watching the first episode, I saw that the next show has no relation to the subject. It just goes to some other story in which I'm not interested, so I guess I'll cancel. Damn, the electronic forces are doing all they can to annoy me!*

Got up at 5:30, a little earlier than I like, but I might take a nap later, as I have rehearsal tonight. Knee feels pretty okay, although I'm "aware" of it, so to speak, which if it were totally okay, I probably wouldn't be. I'll continue to follow the advice of my medical advisors--you know who you are... 💕

☝☝☝☝☝☝☝☝☝☝

* I cancelled, although now I'm having second thoughts. IF--and only if--I was mistaken and there are further episodes on the Idaho murders, I'll re-subscribe.

SATURDAY

When I got up, I discovered the Internet was down. Called Yondoo Communications, but it seemed it wasn't okay on their end. Tried the T.V. and that was off, too. I left them and had breakfast with an old-fashioned communication source--the daily newspaper. 

Amber picked me up at 8:45 and off we went to rehearsal. My knee was somewhat better, but not perfect and I used the cane throughout. Everybody was very solicitous, but I get self-conscious.  I know my colleagues in the cast are not thinking, "helpless old lady with a cane"--it's just me and I shouldn't put thoughts into other peoples' heads. 

Anyway, it was a good session. I did my cowgirl verse and got my part in the little playlet Amber is writing. I play "Rosemary" (I could make up a character's name, but why? I kind of like to have my own name there), whom Bob is dating. Bob's grown son, Jonathan, is very upset over the fact he's dating me, as I was his Sunday School teacher. I think it's a cute idea, and it will get more re-writing and so on. Here's Bob, my "shomance," who has actually made a living through acting since right out of college:

Bob Telford has an IMDB page, too: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0854360/. He's been in many T.V. shows, minor films, and commercials. 

BTW, he's sixteen years younger than I am. 

Home at 12:30 and the Internet was still down, so I called my computer expert, Ellen, and she walked me through the fix, as she's done many times before: power down laptop, unhook plug from wall, wait five minutes, re-plug, wait three minutes, then power up. Happy day--it worked!

Called Noreen to see if she could meet for lunch today. Yep, for a late one, as she goes to church, and I'll see her at 1:30 today. Made my lunch and took it out to the middle to eat in the California sunshine. Mostly lazed around the rest of the afternoon. 

Happy day--I got up this morning and have no hint of soreness in my knee--YAY!

rnet was still down; I couldn't remember how to fix it, so called my girl, Ellen. She told me about unplugging, plugging, waiting five minutes, then three minutes, and so on and so forth, and it worked. Made my lunch, took it and my book out to the middle and relaxed and e n the sun.  

FRIDAY

At Ellen's all day. We ate at Co-Marco, a restaurant of my choosing where we hadn't been for years. It was pricey, but my vegetarian panini was yummy. Went from there to El's to change, then to the pool.  Very nice, lovely sunshine, but only in the eighties. Had a fall getting out of the pool and think I sprained my knee or something, but it's improving.

Back to El's, we sat on her porch and chatted until the Access Van came to pick me up. Home a bit after 7:00 and settled in to have a bite, and to soothe my bad knee with ice. 

This is short because Internet went down--see Saturday for more. 

SOMEHOW, THIS IS OUT OF SEQUENCE--SEE SATURDAY.

THURSDAY

 Did a bleach wash during breakfast, ate, then tidied up a bit. I then spent several hours on something so important and significant I don't remember what it was. Made and packed my lunch, put it in my cart, then walked over to Von's for grapefruit and pretzels. Went from there to CVS to get denture cleaner, then came back to the middle to eat my lunch.

While there, I called Cheryl to reverse myself yet again. Since Ellen had invited me over for lunch and the pool, I decided, after all, to skip T.O.P.S. I'll have to leave at about 10:00 to take the bus to Ojai and I just don't feel like adding the meeting beforehand. Also called leader Lennie to tell her the same.  

More to my liking, I called Bobbi R., as I had been told her husband, Henry, is in a bad way. He is; malignant tumors are everywhere and he's been hospitalized for two weeks. Sadly, Bobbi herself is suffering from cancer; I didn't want to question her about it, but I believe she' waiting for the latest findings. Damn, life can be hard.

Rehearsal went well last night. We were given work-in-progress scripts of the "backstage action," not yet fleshed out. Mine is described as "One of the founding members of the theatre. Has a very unexpected showmance with Bob." Amber is writing it (Shannon is the writer on the other skit.) The who idea is to show us backstage on on stage, of course.

I videoed just tiny snippets of both the Low Attention Span band, with James, Suzi, and Steve, plus Harper singing, and sent them to myself on Messenger. Unfortunately, I don't know know to transfer them here. Will work on it.

Looking forward to lunch and a swim at El's today.

WEDNESDAY

Got several more mundane chores done, including appointments and so on. Made lunch and took it out to my favorite place to eat. It was very quiet--aside from a few people in the pool, I saw almost no others: 

In the evenings, with the hanging lights lit and a fire in the fire pit, it's very nice.

Home, I chopped the two pounds of onions I had bought on Wednesday, along with the red and green peppers I had gotten earlier. Stowed them separately in the freezer. 

Most the of the day, I thought it was Thursday and that I had rehearsal last night; called Cheryl to tell her I would skip T.O.P.S. this week.  No, Mimi, it was Wednesday yesterday--today, when this blog is finished and posted, is Thursday--AAGH!

Ellen called later in the day to invite me over on Friday--that's tomorrow!-- to go in the pool at her place. She also sent pictures of her new shed: 

And below are Ellen's tootsies in the pool; must remember to bring my bathing suit:

As for "Heart's Desire," El sent me the video of my rendition at the country fair three years ago. I won first prize with this, but I can't imagine why. I think my performance lacks a lot and hope to do better in the upcoming show. I tried to send it via email to a certain Jersey girl who requested it, but I'm not sure it went through. 

TUESDAY

What a good, fun day.  Ellen got here at noon and off we went to Wal-Mart, the dump that happens be the only department-y store nearby, darn it. We got our needs and wants, then El suggested lunch at the Hill Street Cafe. Great--I hadn't been there for several months and we went. I had a Reuben, even though I knew theirs don't nearly measure up to what you get from a real Jewish deli on the east coast. It wasn't bad, though, and I ate most. El and I had a lively--to put it mildly--discussion about politics, what's wrong with the country, Trump, and other trifling matters. However, we've talked with no holds barred before and the important thing is, we know we still love each other. I like the murals on the walls at Hill Street: here are two of them:

Also enjoyable was our trip to Green Thumb, where I got another tomato plant, Ellen got several, and we both got cages to keep them upright. Then it was back to my place, where El spent hours planting the new tomatoes, installing the cages around both, clearing off a lot of the damn needles that fall from the pine tree nearby, and cutting back the geranium. It looks great, although you can hardly see them in the picture--can't wait for my little darlings to grow!

Via email, I had sent director Erica two of my shorter playlets: Locket, a sentimental little piece and When Cooks Confer, a comedy. About the first, I was so pleased when Erica responded about Locket with this: 

"Oh, Rosemary. This is good. REALLY. I want to do it. Right after I stop crying. Got me right in the feels."  

However, Erica said she wasn't able to open When Cooks Confer because she didn't have Microsoft or whatever, so I laboriously copied it onto a PDF document and sent it to her last night. Hope she likes that one, too, although I think the agenda is filled for August 14.

MONDAY

Busy day. Washed and changed the sheets, showered and washed my hair, then assembled my list of  things to do. I called Green Carpet Co. and made an appointment for them to come on August 5. Now I'm not sure why I'm waiting that long, so may change it. Called Meticulous and happy day, they'll be at the house tomorrow to service the sprinklers.  Called Lori to tell her and she was very pleased, as was I. Meticulous will send me the bill via email. I also called Betty Downes, Jimmy's sister, and left a message. 

Left at 11:00, took the 21 to Telephone Road, then the 11 to the Stone Fire Grille where I joined Vera, Grendall, and Renee. Elete (Eleet?)  had stopped just to say hello, but didn't stay, so there were only four of us for lunch. We had our usual good time and stayed for two hours. After we said goodbye, I was waiting at the bus stop when Betty Downes called me back. Here she is at our fortieth class of '54 reunion:

Unfortunately, Betty has had some sad losses: She had six children and two sons died recently within a year or two of each other, followed by her brother, Jimmy Downes. She also lost not one, but two husbands, and her best friend from school, Michelle (didn't catch the last name), who was a year behind us. I was amazed that she didn't know the cause of her brother's death; it seems she and Jim's children are not close. Anyway, we talked for a bit, made the usual noises about keeping in touch, and said goodbye. Home, and I took a nap; felt much better when I got up. 

Rehearsal last night: It went well and Brian had some good ideas for my piece. He brought a cowboy hat and we discussed other props, movements, and so on--I'm still innovating with the delivery. Harper sang her song, which is part of the sketch her mother, Shannon wrote. For a child her age, Harper has a remarkable operettic voice; here she is last night:

And here's her mother, Shannon, directing some of her skit, which isn't yet finished:

Players from left: Ena, Johnathan, Mandy, Suzi, and Sharon.

And then there were our dancers, whose names I don't even know yet. They're full of fire and spirit and  videoed them, getting just a smidgen of their piece, but can't seem to transfer it here. Will try to video more of them on Thursday.

Didn't get to bed until 10:00 last night, but happily, slept soundly until 7:00. 

SUNDAY

Before breakfast, I washed, dried, and put away a load of laundry. Did the crossword, which unfortunately, continued the less-than-interesting trend. Mike messaged me with Violet's address in Savannah, there because she got into their "Rising Star" young artist program; I didn't realize she had started yet. Her seventeenth birthday is on Thursday and I sent her an Amazon gift card. 

Got the news from Jersey that the HVAC people had come and fixed the problem tenant Lori told me about. The system had made a kind of loud humming noise, but luckily, it was a minor problem and cost me only $150.

Went to Von's for carrots, cherries, sweet peppers, and some Heathy Choice frozen dinners. Put the stuff away, then packed lunch and naturally, took it out to the middle to eat. I met Suzanne coming back from the pool and once again, considered going in, but didn't. I don't know why in the HELL I don't take advantage of the lovely pool and spa, but I hardly ever do. 

Washed and trimmed the carrots, added olive oil and Italian seasoning, they roasted them in the oven. This is my favorite way to cook carrots and I like them either cold or heated up. Somehow, I don't really like carrots raw and I never, never buy "baby carrots." They're not babies, they're just regular carrots with most of the vitamins and minerals pared off and they're an abomination, damn it! 

Ellen called and said the water was going to be turned off tomorrow where she lives (routine maintenance or something) and did I want to go with her to Wal-Mart, then lunch?  The vast majority of Mimi's Musings fans (two? one?) will know the answer to that one and I'll be ready at noon. 

Darn, I had a terrible time sleeping last night. Woke up at 2:20 for the usual, then lay awake for hours. Finally got up at 6:00, a half-hour ago, stripped the bed, and started a wash. I have Soaring Spirits lunch today, then rehearsal tonight, so I'll need to nap in between.  

SATURDAY, THE SHOW, AND A BIRTHDAY

As seems to happen often, the first part of the day  was problematic, but the next was pretty good. I got the Access Van to take me to rehearsal, but it was so early, I got there at 8:20 for our 9:30 start. That meant I had to hang around for more than an hour. 

Rehearsal went well and co-director Brian gave me some great suggestions for adding prop pieces to my piece. We went over the whole show twice and here are some take-outs:

The woman above (I was introduced earlier, but can't quite remember her name--something like "Elm.") gave her whole monologue in Ukrainian. What sense does that make? Plenty: We're going to have a translation projected onto a screen  over her head. Also, she was so impassioned, it was clear she was a refugee and spoke about war and its horrors. 

I'm not sure if I mentioned it before, but I'm the opening act. There are two ways to look at that: One, that it's an advantage, as the audience will be happily expectant; but two, they may not be quite settled down to turning their full attention to the show. Oh, well, it doesn't really matter much and anyway, it's Erica's and Brian's decision to make.

Amber dropped me off about 12:30 and I had lunch (outside, of course), then dead-headed the geraniums, did a load of laundry, and neatened up a bit. At 4:00, Suzanne stopped for me and we went around the corner to pick up Vickie, and celebrate her sixty-ninth birthday. We went to  La Cabana in Saticoy; this is authentic Mexican, and was very good. It wasn't even 4:30 when we got there and I often have dinner closer to 7:00, so wasn't at all hungry. However, I had a good taco with sides, a good IPA, and, of course, a good time with my two good friends. And what kind of life do I have?  That's right--it's good. 😊

FRIDAY AND A BUNCH OF OTHER STUFF

Disaster on the weight front: I gained 2.2 lbs at home, up to 131.6 and 2.4 at T.O.P.S., up to a ghastly 132.6. I was only mildly placated when it turned out the other four attendees had also gained. Anyway, I'd better start doing better or--or what? Sooner or later, I'll be back  up to 204 pounds. Anyway, Sharon had on a starry top and starry earrings--the latter she made herself: 

 She gave leader Lennie a pretty ring for her middle finger, which Sharon had also made herself: 

Home, I was pleased to have been sent a phone number for Jim Downes' sister, with whom I graduated. I'll call her today. I was stunned to read on my friend, Pat R.'s blog, the following about an RC church with a gay priest: https://thecatholicherald.com/new-york-parish-holds-pride-mass-on-trinity-sunday/ I sent it to Vickie and she was pleased. I'd love to know more about this priest. this parish, and especially, the reaction of the official church. 

Ellen and Greg came a little after 1:00 and we went to lunch at Steven's Greek. Greg is very selective about food and besides Steven's, Lure Fish House in town is the only other place he trusts with food. Wild caught fish is the only kind he'll eat and he has other specifications. Next time, we'll go to Lure. 

After lunch, we went directly to Barnes & Noble, where we sat and read and read for about an hour. I still have a gift card, but didn't yet buy anything. I looked into a lot of interesting books and was amazed to find this:  

I emailed Vickie to alert her to it and she was very appreciative. Hey, maybe times, they are (finally) a'changin'!

El and Greg came back to my place and while El and I sat on the patio and talked and talked, Greg make notes from the book he had bought. El had gotten a text from Paula, my ex-daughter-in-law, inviting us to L.A. where she and other member of her family will scatter their parents' ashes. Sounds interesting and happily, Violet will probably be there, too.

In the middle of his morning bike ride, Mike facetimed us about 5:00 and his Mum and big sister enjoyed it. We talked over Thanksgiving plans and so on. Here's Mike when he called from thousands of miles away, of course--it's amazing how we now just take that for granted: 

Rehearsal at 9:30 this morning and Amber isn't picking me up today, so I'll have to bus there unless I can think of an alternative. 

THURSDAY

Finally got my alendronate script straightened out, plus several other mundane "business" chores. Went over to CVS to get my three month's worth of the alendronate. Stopped at Von's on the way home for blueberries, broccoli, and other essentials. Made and packed my lunch, took it out to the middle, and enjoyed it there. Somehow, I've gotten in that habit and I like it. Ran into Suzanne coming back from the pool and we chatted. I told her that one of these days, I'll go in myself--hmm, when that happens, the world might stop turning. Also saw Kathy coming back after depositing her trash and we talked. I gave her my card and hope to get to know her better.

I got a text from Jeanne (Dollard) Painter and we communicated back and forth. John is still on hospice, but at 96, is holding his own. She showed me a video of the two of them with a guitarist playing "Oh, Johnny, oh, Johnny, how you can love...." John  and she were sitting on the bed holding hands and tears came to my eyes. They are so lucky to have each other.

I went into my file and pulled out a number of scripts I had written and used for my acting classes. Some had been presented by the Little Egg Theatre Company, also. I'll ask Erica if she  might need more material for our upcoming show which will open on August 15. 

I did some clean-up on the patio and straightened up inside a bit, but generally had a pretty lazy day. I'll go to T.O.P.S. this morning, then El and Greg will pick me up and we'll got the Steven's Greek for lunch--I'm looking forward to that, of course.   

WIDER: The blood runs cold: 

https://scheerpost.com/2025/07/04/exclusive-mahmoud-khalil-palestinian-activist-jailed-by-ice-for-104-days-in-first-live-interview

WEDNESDAY

I got a fair number of "business" matters and other chores done, all too boring to specify. Took my lunch out to the middle to eat, then showered and dressed. 

I found another little rhyme I had written some years ago, called Why Do You Have To Be Young? I decided to work up a little piece around it, bring it to rehearsal to see if Erica wants to include it in the show. It's okay with me yes or no. 

Got a phone call from Lisa G., with whom I had appeared almost two years ago. She hadn't heard about the new show for some reason and asked if she could still audition. I suggested she contact director Erica to see and she may or may not. Here are Lisa, Amy, and me two years ago in After All This Time: 

Amber picked me up and off we went to "rehearsal." The quote marks denote that it wasn't exactly a rehearsal, because the show hasn't been written yet. What we do when we gather is go over what went before, then discuss, suggest, and semi-finalize the show. Amber, Shannon, and the two directors are the ones actually putting words on paper (rather, on screen), with the rest of us coming up with ideas. As we do, there are comments and discussion, then Erica adds to her list. The next day, she emails to all what was decided, although all are subject to revision. I brought in another (but short) verse entitled "Why Do Have To Be Young?" which I recited for Erica, but I don't know if she thought it would fit. Here's Erica last night: 

One of the items we went over was the title for the show. After a fair amount of discussion, we settled--subject to change--on "Snappy Players Present Backstage Bedlam, A Low Attention Span Variety Show." That may or may not be changed. As for "Snappy Players," isn't this the "Fractured Actors" ensemble? Yes, but that's Jeff and Shannon's baby and this is an off-shoot. Considering their recent divorce, I don't know how F.A. will shape up--or even survive.

We broke up a half-hour early, but the writers stayed for another half and Amber is one of them, so I stayed, too. It was interesting to sit in as she, Shannon, Erica, and Brian hashed over ideas; Shannon acting out some of her ideas. Didn't get home until twenty of ten, then stayed up with T.V. and snacks for another hour--horrors, I'm getting to be a dirty stay-out! 

TUESDAY

Had breakfast. fussed around with this and that, packed lunch and set off for Wal-Mart, where I got tuna packets, crackers, and vinegar; Trader Joe's (grapefruit); and Green Thumb (a clipper). I wanted to get a tomato cage at the latter, too, but theirs were all too large; I was told they were out of smaller ones, but should get more next week. Lunched at the little park near Ralph's and bused home. 

Ellen called to ask if I wanted to go to lunch at Steven's Greek with Greg and her on Friday. Oh, no, no,  that would be a bore--ha!  Well, sure, naturally, so they'll pick me up. 

Suzanne, Vickie, and I agreed by text we'd go to La Cabana restaurant in Santa Paula on Saturday to celebrate Vickie's birthday. Suzanne suggested we beat the crowd by leaving at 4:00 pm, very early, but I'll adjust and adapt. I have rehearsal, but it's in the morning, so that's okay. 

Somebody from the office called to respond to my question about contacting a carpet-cleaning company--mine are badly in need. It seems they no longer use a particular outfit, but she gave me a name and number for another. 

Took a nap (I'm adjusting my sleep schedule, so I can stay up later), then went out to get the mail. Ran into Vickie and we fell into conversation. An acquaintance of hers, Kathy, came along with her tiny dog, Na-noo, and joined us. In her working life, she had been a property manager, and I liked her a lot. Later, I invited Vickie in and we sat down and had a long, open-hearted talk about religion, sexual orientation, and other topics in which mutual trust and the absence of judgement is essential. She stayed until 9:00, which was fine by me. I was able to stay up until 10:30 and slept soundly until 7:00.   

☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺

From Monday night, the original photo by Shannon, who sacrificed half her head:

 And here I was, the shrimp in the second row. BTW, on my right is Jonathan, who's from Morristown, NJ, and new to the group: 

☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺☺

MONDAY

Took lunch outside, which was okay, but a little too windy. Home, I prepared with oil and seasonings, a pound of big, beautiful mushrooms and popped them in the oven. Had a few, then dressed for our first gathering of the new show. Darn, the Access Van picked me up at 4:30, an hour and a half early for the 6:00 pm call, when it takes only about twenty minutes to get there. Luckily, he also picked up, then dropped off, two others, one in a wheelchair, so I got there about 5:20. I was dismayed to learn from Gus, the driver, that the free ticket program for the Access Van was going to end for lack of funding. Oh, well, it's still well-worth it to pay the four dollars a ride when I need it. 

Since we got there early, the door was locked and Kiara was the only one there, sitting in her car. I hadn't know her before, but we introduced ourselves and sat in her car to wait. Brian got there shortly and we went in. Before too long, others arrived in the cast and crew, about thirty, I guess. Aside from directors Erica and Brian, I knew only a few, including Amy, Mandy, Meredith, Becky, and Amber. Anyway, the meeting started when we discussed topics related to the show. The major theme is a "show within a show"--i.e., backstage shenanigans. Erica set herself up on the stage with laptop and typed in ideas and suggestions as we voiced them, which were projected on a screen. She asked for our thoughts about a title and there were lots of good ones. I suggested "A Night To Forget," and "The Show Must Go On--But Why?"  She also asked us to relate some snafus from our on-stage pasts and to suggest some comic situations. That was a lot of fun. Here's Erica, recording our comments:

I had asked around if it was convenient for anybody for chauffer me back and forth, so I didn't have to wait for the Access Van; Amber and Amy volunteered and Amber did so. We broke up a little early--8:40 and subsequent meetings will be on Mondays each week, plus alternating Wednesdays and Thursdays, plus Saturday mornings from 9:30 to noon.  

Got home at 9:00 and, of course, had to watch my hour of TV, but then went to bed and slept soundly until 6:00. I've got lots of chores to catch up on today (as ever!), including walking to Green Thumb to get a cage for my tomato plant.  

Note: Niece Carolyn sent me an Instagram reel of a woman who's kind of a collector of unusual obituaries. One she cited was a litany of grievances against a man named Charles Something. It mentioned how he was devious, mean, and unworthy of love. I thought it was peculiar and I wondered what the purpose of writing that--presumably by his relatives-was, especially since it was couched in vague, general terms and didn't specify what, exactly, he had done. Anyway, I'll be interested in more obits, as I've always had a fixation on them--or maybe on death itself.