tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-171557112024-03-19T02:48:24.698-06:00Mimi's MusingsMimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.comBlogger6546125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-76228420834635679312024-03-18T07:49:00.002-06:002024-03-18T08:35:03.775-06:00Simply Spendid Sunday <p>I bused to Ojai and got there at 11:00. We waited until Ellen "did" her hair--which means using a kind of revolving brush/dryer to coax the lovely curls out. (Darn! What I would have given to have such hair!) We set off for Lake Casitas' about noon, stopping first to look at a house, as Ellen might be interested in moving after she retires.</p><p>Lake Casitas was beautiful as ever and this is just a taste of the sun-dappled water, the hills and trees, and overall lovely setting that Ellen lives near. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxlthk2N5sU6igVD3w7Gv2IDOw0LKk7InXfZW231nX1V0qEhAyVwpoGVeS4yIjUj9aVckDg7_td90-E0nLZwMf_msyknvZIlqteWy3n5-2_ZDyqu4merVBT1pdFA9cUPM8osYqkOkZb3RwB0FfGN1DX6ZG0SwQecxgXuKWqJwlzt_nPDrwPxi/s4032/Lake%20Casitas%20march%202024.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxlthk2N5sU6igVD3w7Gv2IDOw0LKk7InXfZW231nX1V0qEhAyVwpoGVeS4yIjUj9aVckDg7_td90-E0nLZwMf_msyknvZIlqteWy3n5-2_ZDyqu4merVBT1pdFA9cUPM8osYqkOkZb3RwB0FfGN1DX6ZG0SwQecxgXuKWqJwlzt_nPDrwPxi/s320/Lake%20Casitas%20march%202024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGrnUs3_T3uR3PT3EHfcr7ZjT74Tu1J5T0HPEENj5k_RBdDQBeJRZYkjC95OzUvf0LzDN1dTtR2hMRCQO5k0xjgwCGuMOorh_9qRxJ4P1mVCHx_m3Up1FSEdQh5-syrZeFGKrxdpQGg1Rny-F-FFMw9XEn0SJkjsEgduBjxTMK9xSqsM4Ol9Y/s4032/Lake%20Casitas%20march%202024%20two.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGrnUs3_T3uR3PT3EHfcr7ZjT74Tu1J5T0HPEENj5k_RBdDQBeJRZYkjC95OzUvf0LzDN1dTtR2hMRCQO5k0xjgwCGuMOorh_9qRxJ4P1mVCHx_m3Up1FSEdQh5-syrZeFGKrxdpQGg1Rny-F-FFMw9XEn0SJkjsEgduBjxTMK9xSqsM4Ol9Y/s320/Lake%20Casitas%20march%202024%20two.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We had lunch at the restaurant overlooking the lake. I had a "breakfast burrito," since I had seen the lunch size and it was enough to feed three people. They have draft beer, too, and I took the server's suggestion to try the locally-brewed Transition IPA. He gave me a sample and yes, indeed, it was right down my alley--windpipe, that is.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After, we roamed the lake area, taking in the scenery, boaters, and picnickers enjoying the lovely area--pictures don't do it justice. Left about 4:00 and I was taken home after stopping at Target for provisions. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Soaring Spirits for dinner today, then I have some free days. Must call Noreen, as we've discussed lunch and als<i>o Comic Potential</i>. Can't decide if I want to go again or not. Also, Stella called about meeting for lunch, which I want to do, as she's the gold standard when I comes to testing the hearing aids. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hmm: It's now 6:45 am (I slept late) and I just got a call from an r.e. agent, asking if I want to sell my house in Jersey. Mike is constantly getting these calls for his house in Florida, so I guess the market is hot all over. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Note: Although my companions wore green (I forgot) and I had sent the kids St. P. day cards, we really weren't into it yesterday. We talked about the fact that, although it's observed in a way on the west coast, it isn't nearly the thing it is across country. The history of immigration makes clear why Cinco de Mayo celebrations are much more exuberant. </div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-10421531795959960732024-03-17T06:07:00.001-06:002024-03-17T06:26:36.542-06:00Saturday<p>Another life celebration and this was a wonderful experience, also. Vickie and I met up with James and Benny (in the box) about noon:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJ-FJmaphefp9YX6CRAViRhqtvJGIN7YdnSUCjQsLEcYosG9HhVlXQXQqRGCZk5P5SEWsS_uW84hpmHN8Q6C3m00TzxzQ1D_zdwKzfmBtMqNJnoF-SBX2Mz2JhyphenhyphenDacH6EPj8RbNzQ0Y-WRVEa1JxbktDrS-JP9Qz0kg4t2tZg_wxAckCkd_XC/s4032/Benny%20James%20with%20benny%20in%20box.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJ-FJmaphefp9YX6CRAViRhqtvJGIN7YdnSUCjQsLEcYosG9HhVlXQXQqRGCZk5P5SEWsS_uW84hpmHN8Q6C3m00TzxzQ1D_zdwKzfmBtMqNJnoF-SBX2Mz2JhyphenhyphenDacH6EPj8RbNzQ0Y-WRVEa1JxbktDrS-JP9Qz0kg4t2tZg_wxAckCkd_XC/s320/Benny%20James%20with%20benny%20in%20box.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...boarded "The Dreamer" with the others and went out into the harbor. There were twenty of us,plus the captain and mate:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2V4xttr7s5dW590O3eTSI6jS-L_M0G7VP3S06x8cNZXf8CTAaEQpdyDiGVQEeeIdjOI_3UFMPGoH1Cnyk-nAR8ElloilKMOzuAMusEYy6fc1LKqcMk7kKGXiiom4VY3y352RKMvmJnEc5_Mm7JCOKFIcFNwG76JLHXRoSYez6BIHYMYXE2mW0/s2811/Benny%20whole%20group%20on%20boat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1832" data-original-width="2811" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2V4xttr7s5dW590O3eTSI6jS-L_M0G7VP3S06x8cNZXf8CTAaEQpdyDiGVQEeeIdjOI_3UFMPGoH1Cnyk-nAR8ElloilKMOzuAMusEYy6fc1LKqcMk7kKGXiiom4VY3y352RKMvmJnEc5_Mm7JCOKFIcFNwG76JLHXRoSYez6BIHYMYXE2mW0/s320/Benny%20whole%20group%20on%20boat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">It was a perfect day: just warm enough, only slightly breezy, with blue skies and lovely sun. On the way out, which took about twenty minutes, we sang to Bob Marley and others, talked and laughed, got to know each other, and enjoyed the scenery and the little appetizer buffet (there's Benny over on the right, in the basket):</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSSMAcIFmE5DGC8rj_TKGwi4m3PkZu21MXbx9mv29cQ7V3wzoMwFgL86HHDut_VOx4EpFZLRIzQU1tbIj4GZ8ToZ96y7MM02PAW-2TOVo05Pu-riCges9lQmlxIaz0Iy72ui_3AId6hXLUophbCmPivyqWMVGfCf2Dlmh5MW3lDnWsnmIqXy2S/s3038/Benny%20captain%20buffet%20and%20basket%20on%20boat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1984" data-original-width="3038" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSSMAcIFmE5DGC8rj_TKGwi4m3PkZu21MXbx9mv29cQ7V3wzoMwFgL86HHDut_VOx4EpFZLRIzQU1tbIj4GZ8ToZ96y7MM02PAW-2TOVo05Pu-riCges9lQmlxIaz0Iy72ui_3AId6hXLUophbCmPivyqWMVGfCf2Dlmh5MW3lDnWsnmIqXy2S/s320/Benny%20captain%20buffet%20and%20basket%20on%20boat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> A few random shots:</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wAQm7KdK574TvRza_7KF771okGlYZgvqSMoFN-wazmD8nOooxZZHFcYcyb9hOghhAsDwc0HeQg56S7RxeuUXuWGdWddokYZxVrDGp3g51t_iZC-p4K9Lp-WA4U2U9eOrSO9_AW9iam53xr7gocsUbpebS5oixDCNP3zka9Cbe2TfUpQl-_m5/s4032/Benny%20group%20on%20boat%20stern.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wAQm7KdK574TvRza_7KF771okGlYZgvqSMoFN-wazmD8nOooxZZHFcYcyb9hOghhAsDwc0HeQg56S7RxeuUXuWGdWddokYZxVrDGp3g51t_iZC-p4K9Lp-WA4U2U9eOrSO9_AW9iam53xr7gocsUbpebS5oixDCNP3zka9Cbe2TfUpQl-_m5/s320/Benny%20group%20on%20boat%20stern.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Y42NeTQeBjxE-QaePTVen9W7Ebm6K2DDMYhY4FhoOfvahxCb-QsXtJhjDO7wZFfZmKeEDbsaauQVawcVS5nJXGrGyiUDK2GGa0k-ouLsYQhG5obpRL6JJ2XjqznSbN8E0U3Uo6amqVjJaq8eaq51syQz5eB6PXqVFAM89blBLCE5AMrNvdba/s3415/Benny%20James%20and%20others%20on%20boat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3415" data-original-width="2566" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Y42NeTQeBjxE-QaePTVen9W7Ebm6K2DDMYhY4FhoOfvahxCb-QsXtJhjDO7wZFfZmKeEDbsaauQVawcVS5nJXGrGyiUDK2GGa0k-ouLsYQhG5obpRL6JJ2XjqznSbN8E0U3Uo6amqVjJaq8eaq51syQz5eB6PXqVFAM89blBLCE5AMrNvdba/s320/Benny%20James%20and%20others%20on%20boat.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When we got out to what I assumed is the dedicated scattering area, the basket was brought over to the cutout by James and his sister. Benny's urn was in the middle, covered with rose petals: <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTC-ki5X3zq0zfxqwriMZvhZUbZbFKIAinEA6psYKxG0ZE6O_25TPHYnTYeNmfTi5CbQ9Aa9zd36SgdHx6pr1fy8rfu0BI1q-2WItStSyv62RDEQmRjvzV19aJsgBUJuRrs6ExdalqfgHRGH85gcQb9n9h_2yYgZhe_UK5eDUqOjuXCWsOLFbC/s1884/Benny%20basket%20on%20boat%20two.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1269" data-original-width="1884" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTC-ki5X3zq0zfxqwriMZvhZUbZbFKIAinEA6psYKxG0ZE6O_25TPHYnTYeNmfTi5CbQ9Aa9zd36SgdHx6pr1fy8rfu0BI1q-2WItStSyv62RDEQmRjvzV19aJsgBUJuRrs6ExdalqfgHRGH85gcQb9n9h_2yYgZhe_UK5eDUqOjuXCWsOLFbC/s320/Benny%20basket%20on%20boat%20two.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was surprised to see that, rather than ashes being thrown to the wind, the whole basket was lowered down to the water. While it sank, the pedals floated gently on the surface:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijM1XyjGOX1sIF0f-k3PVPiuAda2r9G-mRufFThF-GoDu1tGwVZyRxhpfDQY4zYs2MDbWBTwsaHvOe4S1nGK9O-HhLrxbWq7Xil5FrgOQJD_Ol5wzm9TZUgkCpfkuQZjYLab-0xYHqX-n14Biakk7ZYGbNBlEb8OcofusGRqRSTw86D7bLZOAD/s2349/Benny%20pedals%20on%20water.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1237" data-original-width="2349" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijM1XyjGOX1sIF0f-k3PVPiuAda2r9G-mRufFThF-GoDu1tGwVZyRxhpfDQY4zYs2MDbWBTwsaHvOe4S1nGK9O-HhLrxbWq7Xil5FrgOQJD_Ol5wzm9TZUgkCpfkuQZjYLab-0xYHqX-n14Biakk7ZYGbNBlEb8OcofusGRqRSTw86D7bLZOAD/s320/Benny%20pedals%20on%20water.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Then, each person was given a flower sprig to drop in, after which the captain maneuvered the boat so the flowers circled around the pedals. <span style="text-align: left;">It was a lovely and moving ceremony and when I dropped my flowers on the water, I surprised myself by starting to cry. I was thinking of my brother, Frank. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">We circled around for maybe ten minutes, then headed back to shore for the luncheon. </span><span style="text-align: left;">It was at the yacht club (where BCNN used to meet) and by that time, it was after two and we were starved. At each place, there was a program and an angel and remembrance keepsake: </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9KjbDXrwf8P4p715KJIjeVSofN2Ob9nDimXlB_soTAN2it1MqmyeAcysXkk4eUcXgCudvLI9t6axgjYiZggvSgRIRidPYJNA3UFCDUxj6ZYphzO9CT_7ZL7jjpbzcIemHMbQW9B-KRQ-Uyk9wJo5b0rj9mNtxiK4hNDCRDuJ7fNdvA6EVa_g/s2644/Benny%20ceremony%20program.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2644" data-original-width="1923" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9KjbDXrwf8P4p715KJIjeVSofN2Ob9nDimXlB_soTAN2it1MqmyeAcysXkk4eUcXgCudvLI9t6axgjYiZggvSgRIRidPYJNA3UFCDUxj6ZYphzO9CT_7ZL7jjpbzcIemHMbQW9B-KRQ-Uyk9wJo5b0rj9mNtxiK4hNDCRDuJ7fNdvA6EVa_g/s320/Benny%20ceremony%20program.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeiIquD1ixDuhsl8cegnoQzv9-mnY3fTx15BcpZMk9s2DlKC1D88dT5vKZV0sXwOZhX7DmdXqFL3CLDMxRF7SKt6zmeqjD_3OT1s3kDVSipgsUKYrQFC5f4aBq0y_evrVzhO65vGMNzKzRE0iABEO8E-TZStKbaUKeyPOZ7hIxHSZVBP_0sHR/s2168/Benny%20miss%20me%20but%20let%20me%20go.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2168" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeiIquD1ixDuhsl8cegnoQzv9-mnY3fTx15BcpZMk9s2DlKC1D88dT5vKZV0sXwOZhX7DmdXqFL3CLDMxRF7SKt6zmeqjD_3OT1s3kDVSipgsUKYrQFC5f4aBq0y_evrVzhO65vGMNzKzRE0iABEO8E-TZStKbaUKeyPOZ7hIxHSZVBP_0sHR/s320/Benny%20miss%20me%20but%20let%20me%20go.jpg" width="287" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was also, I was happy to see, a champagne bucket on each table. A server came around asking if we wanted a dry or a sweet. We got the dry and it was so good. We toasted Benny, then people were asked to cite their relationship to Bennie, then we ate. Some artifacts around the room:</div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqqv2SDn0cOVQvNwX4Qb_RfSGXNPMeJ0vDgco2-ugM0CduivaPjTx-itX3hHEbKHuQttTfkEU3G1bs2oQK_-cj9LJE7Kr3P-kojF9oFZ5oMzaYS4bc91KmcbnPI3VwTx8-DaDlb5mu-ihs6CAkKwIHvZBTznv7bXu2n7rePawhQ5GhQaQYfcu5/s2882/Benny%20picture.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2127" data-original-width="2882" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqqv2SDn0cOVQvNwX4Qb_RfSGXNPMeJ0vDgco2-ugM0CduivaPjTx-itX3hHEbKHuQttTfkEU3G1bs2oQK_-cj9LJE7Kr3P-kojF9oFZ5oMzaYS4bc91KmcbnPI3VwTx8-DaDlb5mu-ihs6CAkKwIHvZBTznv7bXu2n7rePawhQ5GhQaQYfcu5/s320/Benny%20picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqg4rieq6zEFd8755mvamyUWMMHQ76Wm9MfomWuhOqUmyELbfZNDztaAL6-hrmOCVQImUIZfLd9U71IUYIG0g4kxfAd9FubA8C3xOtOWhWOnTQ-bMrvo5Y8lHKIyZf0F5EMKiZ2P6-LX4_o6wB-WVX1-BV3tY2Bn1JgGwWHuFBfgke3kSsV4N/s3810/Benny%20plaques.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3810" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqg4rieq6zEFd8755mvamyUWMMHQ76Wm9MfomWuhOqUmyELbfZNDztaAL6-hrmOCVQImUIZfLd9U71IUYIG0g4kxfAd9FubA8C3xOtOWhWOnTQ-bMrvo5Y8lHKIyZf0F5EMKiZ2P6-LX4_o6wB-WVX1-BV3tY2Bn1JgGwWHuFBfgke3kSsV4N/s320/Benny%20plaques.jpg" width="190" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Above: Some of the citations he received after forty years in Ventura County Behavioral Health:</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWKpOtCWo-IfLhfCB-B-xggGcPV2dEsE_hV1wvzMmbyKek12Knhh1El3Yck5ombjWvxbhHPv6Oot8Hz7DuasMTosQN5giHpeNOXFcInIbfNcYAsG0d00REgOBcw3o32cQty_4Fwwng1k_zAg6NqPmVzwWxPWhhfkl-nm-bPvBNlTHex9G03CG/s4032/Benny%20retirement%20card%20and%20blue%20top.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWKpOtCWo-IfLhfCB-B-xggGcPV2dEsE_hV1wvzMmbyKek12Knhh1El3Yck5ombjWvxbhHPv6Oot8Hz7DuasMTosQN5giHpeNOXFcInIbfNcYAsG0d00REgOBcw3o32cQty_4Fwwng1k_zAg6NqPmVzwWxPWhhfkl-nm-bPvBNlTHex9G03CG/s320/Benny%20retirement%20card%20and%20blue%20top.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Above: Some items from on his retirement party; Vickie had been there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7r_siNZFydkr-x6dII2-X1_bdVojkdmwIP89rOGIk1lx-nbxQRk0bFx0rGa3uCujF5C9Y-JnFYYue5o8XUCJiWC_oBoVX9-Zd8d08hF8pC7DJiwWRV9RjwRxFuWH3yx0MiBG1IAi0_e8WN1WgmTcm_4HoSLAgHw_uuN-SJYZdeLb2n997GgB/s2858/Benny%20our%20table%20and%20James.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1909" data-original-width="2858" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7r_siNZFydkr-x6dII2-X1_bdVojkdmwIP89rOGIk1lx-nbxQRk0bFx0rGa3uCujF5C9Y-JnFYYue5o8XUCJiWC_oBoVX9-Zd8d08hF8pC7DJiwWRV9RjwRxFuWH3yx0MiBG1IAi0_e8WN1WgmTcm_4HoSLAgHw_uuN-SJYZdeLb2n997GgB/s320/Benny%20our%20table%20and%20James.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Above: Vickie seated on the left, James; his niece, and I standing; two other Crayton relatives seated.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The luncheon was good--I ate too much--and we lingered over dessert before leaving about 4:00. When we got home, Vickie and I sat in the car for a good 45 minutes talking over our ideas and beliefs. Our concentration was on subjects of good and evil, sexual orientation, truths and fallacies, and the feelings of guilt that seems to be instilled in so many, often, thanks to the influence of religion. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the past two days, it occurred to me how much I enjoy the variety of people I know, not as servants and underlings, but as friends and acquaintances. Black, white, Latino, Asian, gay, young and old, sick and well, I want them all in my life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Of course, I love most of all having my family in my life. Today, I'm looking forward to lunch at Lake Casitas with two of them. </div></span></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-51831464172540458172024-03-16T06:48:00.004-06:002024-03-16T06:48:51.966-06:00Friday<p>Well, it was a long and very interesting day. Gayle picked me up at 9:30 and we drove into town for Anne's funeral. I was surprised that the funeral home was so large--it featured a viewing room as big as some churches and lots of other areas. Anne was laid out old-fashioned style--actually whole and in a coffin, rather then being in an urn. It didn't look like her--naturally, as it wasn't "her." The "her" she had been was gone as of February 22.</p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXwEtBJn_hhgNUllFkRk15q1flHpeMkDk419jHidHSLP96jlXuda0_HNxgmX7pU1QaOf_t6fCgpFG-NS37pXLzq1Q2EnYj9h1y3bIVOMQbICdgquySAxNSDoAJ2IN38fZrR_AdfqEsrVIxOP-7dhTGbNpPwBjzHvu5qbIXe9rLSh3JwALNPqs/s2088/Anne%20funeral%20one.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1619" data-original-width="2088" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXwEtBJn_hhgNUllFkRk15q1flHpeMkDk419jHidHSLP96jlXuda0_HNxgmX7pU1QaOf_t6fCgpFG-NS37pXLzq1Q2EnYj9h1y3bIVOMQbICdgquySAxNSDoAJ2IN38fZrR_AdfqEsrVIxOP-7dhTGbNpPwBjzHvu5qbIXe9rLSh3JwALNPqs/s320/Anne%20funeral%20one.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p>As is customary now, this was termed "A Celebration of Life" and pictures of Anne and family were shown on screens flanking the coffin: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib83TVPvNL42OEAU6a3I_rBHTzAZreEbyBmGeJhzDHnfvvtO-rZ0Pvi2zJZu0L78Hh6VpOrQXjE78HyJ0fjm0s3uMZmJMoezok6qTe7xGyMDQhMGKkGCFI7yI5jS9YDHVgYoIfBKibXSRVJ5pCm61aOYC4Yp9PV6ojudNxE2LPrgRi5FGUPv-F/s2650/Anne%20funeral%20two.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2650" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib83TVPvNL42OEAU6a3I_rBHTzAZreEbyBmGeJhzDHnfvvtO-rZ0Pvi2zJZu0L78Hh6VpOrQXjE78HyJ0fjm0s3uMZmJMoezok6qTe7xGyMDQhMGKkGCFI7yI5jS9YDHVgYoIfBKibXSRVJ5pCm61aOYC4Yp9PV6ojudNxE2LPrgRi5FGUPv-F/s320/Anne%20funeral%20two.jpg" width="274" /></a></div><p></p><p>As for immediate family, Anne had three sons and several grandchildren, although she was only 60. Her birth family, mother, father, siblings, and their spouses and offspring were all there. How many brothers and sisters did she have? Incredibly, fifteen. Yes, she was one of 16 children and when she was five, her father "walked away," although he came to the funeral, according to Mary, Anne's mother, whom I found remarkably upbeat and cheery. She is 85, lives in Simi Valley, and seems in good health. Of course, so did Anne until she died. How she died is still not known; an autopsy was performed, but the results have not yet been told to the family. </p><p>The funeral was conducted by a minister, which seems odd, considering that on Thursday, a Catholic mass was held at the Church of the Assumption, but maybe that's standard nowadays. The program yesterday included songs by one of Anne's sisters, who has a beautiful voice, and reminisences s by other siblings. All in all, it was quite an enjoyable, if poignant, occasion.</p><p>A reception in Santa Paula was held after and I enjoyed talking and getting to know some of the relatives. Refreshments included a number of traditional Mexican foods, plus soda and other (non-alcoholic) drinks, and an incredibly large and diverse array of desserts. Here's the venue, pretty clearly decorated for a wedding reception:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1cKt1SdPSeVDIfbo_CAwL2Z5vd0jJcHLbNEfpelpGrx2SW5bfLKb0MsDP_aKtDlYAEVtejJYzhhb7MP3vV7MHX0o4IjrJHXRnd1AwaMRMJh4Xc7PgJjMnn9pM1r8ZhEOwVtbBFlDh_bRcgGo0TM3a-MVQfaMSh4vF5e2j4HOsoGWlWB3qMxw/s3024/Anne%20funeral%20three.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1cKt1SdPSeVDIfbo_CAwL2Z5vd0jJcHLbNEfpelpGrx2SW5bfLKb0MsDP_aKtDlYAEVtejJYzhhb7MP3vV7MHX0o4IjrJHXRnd1AwaMRMJh4Xc7PgJjMnn9pM1r8ZhEOwVtbBFlDh_bRcgGo0TM3a-MVQfaMSh4vF5e2j4HOsoGWlWB3qMxw/s320/Anne%20funeral%20three.jpg" width="240" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxcHbuMz_qUemOt3WZDA4FdeQtXpqkgFXjXMG5E5eXyM6W0wIBxjGscbKLSAdDnJNAeh0znwhSYGPWy7qnA4CHMzNJnzxkg_zr5N-cZTW2mTkAwgBeWSpleY-ep95h61z9jnN9hNntESZTtXc0gRZ9xLRq046TGrXtB5FwvdmXcJbepNJON5TL/s3456/Anne%20funeral%20four.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="2027" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxcHbuMz_qUemOt3WZDA4FdeQtXpqkgFXjXMG5E5eXyM6W0wIBxjGscbKLSAdDnJNAeh0znwhSYGPWy7qnA4CHMzNJnzxkg_zr5N-cZTW2mTkAwgBeWSpleY-ep95h61z9jnN9hNntESZTtXc0gRZ9xLRq046TGrXtB5FwvdmXcJbepNJON5TL/s320/Anne%20funeral%20four.jpg" width="188" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgr88TsEyKU_AYupngnipF4O-7StXOp5fmGrv0d2-aKL03qiRixGaz5_HjJ6cykSoKzKk_0bHMsnuAFlb-iA64vTR9-QBgvKAVbuNP0hJHrKRnj4B5hEE2BkHteYxXEf1TuDm8_raUwcZ-pe0EsZo3rcawZGhuqPSErAXkKSAP2t2tviDhd-qo/s3209/Anne%20funeral%20five.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3209" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgr88TsEyKU_AYupngnipF4O-7StXOp5fmGrv0d2-aKL03qiRixGaz5_HjJ6cykSoKzKk_0bHMsnuAFlb-iA64vTR9-QBgvKAVbuNP0hJHrKRnj4B5hEE2BkHteYxXEf1TuDm8_raUwcZ-pe0EsZo3rcawZGhuqPSErAXkKSAP2t2tviDhd-qo/s320/Anne%20funeral%20five.jpg" width="226" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfGrxxtxtPaZ6OYy5JnipeFj4GNtN9KaoFEcPtOTaD7xl6nk2gFMth-5kxkCkpbW73-0dtc3Vjdt80pLqDRqJaALqGC9rT66jlolVJ_fYqt9WSvLfICgC-Y-Ijxi4JzbSwuxqD3gbfh-8hbvlTzglyYzh98Xfb9zUm9tv_cMgfvrMHCioVqab/s4032/Anne%20funeral%20six.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfGrxxtxtPaZ6OYy5JnipeFj4GNtN9KaoFEcPtOTaD7xl6nk2gFMth-5kxkCkpbW73-0dtc3Vjdt80pLqDRqJaALqGC9rT66jlolVJ_fYqt9WSvLfICgC-Y-Ijxi4JzbSwuxqD3gbfh-8hbvlTzglyYzh98Xfb9zUm9tv_cMgfvrMHCioVqab/s320/Anne%20funeral%20six.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, here's a little addition to the "interesting" category of the day: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On our way to Santa Paula, I had asked Gayle to stop at the dry cleaners to pick up my docent skirt. When we stopped, I saw that the facade was covered with dry wall and the door bolted. What--what had happened to the shop? A woman passing by told me it had burnt to the ground on Thursday night! AAGH--my skirt was gone! I had gotten it from a costume shop in L.A. six or seven years ago and it was fairly expensive. Well, I'll have to replace it, as I'm scheduled to do the tour on the first Sunday in April.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Got home, had a bite, Suzanne came over to chat, and then it was hot tub time. That was pleasant, although I just sat on the side and put my legs in. Plans were made to go to the Ojai restaurant for breakfast tomorrow and I'm looking forward to that. James C. called to be sure Vickie and I had all the information to witness the scattering of Benny's ashes. Yes, we do, and we'll board the boat at 11:00 today. </div></div></div></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-34308654148623049812024-03-15T06:27:00.002-06:002024-03-15T06:27:36.613-06:00Thursday<p>Ran over to Von's in the morning and got chicken thighs, grapefruit soda, low-cal popsicles, and a dozen and a half eggs. I was accompanied by ferocious winds, which convinced me decide not to venture too far later in the day. Instead, I rearranged some things in the bedroom and otherwise tidied up. Did a color wash and some kitchen counter cleaning. I looked up how to freeze eggs (you break them and scramble them together first) and put four in the freezer. Paid Community Memorial and a few other electronic bills. </p><p>Called Muckie and we had a--get this--almost two hour visit. How I enjoy talking to her and how I'll miss that when I no longer can. Gayle called to confirm that she'll pick me up this morning and we'll go to Anne's funeral. She'll take me to the cleaners afterwards to pick up my docent skirt.</p><p>I was just about to start dinner when my pal, David, the birdman, texted me. He said he was outside at my patio gate, looking at my ficus tree. I went out and we discuses the tree, plus what he considers the too-enthusiastic tree trimmers. We then went over to the outside of his apartment and he showed me the tree in the patio of his downstairs neighbor,which shades his balcony above; it's quite beautiful. I asked how he was emotionally and, of course, he has his ups and downs. His ex-wife (yes, but he still loved her; I don't know why they divorced) died two years ago and misses her terribly. Life is so hard sometimes. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-38939760891530102232024-03-14T07:09:00.001-06:002024-03-14T07:24:37.151-06:00Wednesday<p>I'm still chipping away at items on my to-do list. At 10:00, I set out for the dry cleaners at the Smart 'n' Final shopping center, about a mile and a half down Telegraph Road. When I turned onto Hill Street, which borders my apartment complex, I saw this on the Campbell Farm: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQesj0La0MDboS5jsSQ3vBwz5MlW1SHIv3jteIzRVYspovM5Ifp6_Ewo47Gle2-RZjh7rvMLvZUdaM7Hwo0vgwpOGqJhpCiEj0Wc_9_BqDDxrdvncBzTQ4gCFgYLBnrsjE9lL9XTbUDytAdEwanrlw8Sk0RN7dsIY85ljUWgKtdN5fkvLv_xXn/s3348/Campbell%20Farm.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="3348" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQesj0La0MDboS5jsSQ3vBwz5MlW1SHIv3jteIzRVYspovM5Ifp6_Ewo47Gle2-RZjh7rvMLvZUdaM7Hwo0vgwpOGqJhpCiEj0Wc_9_BqDDxrdvncBzTQ4gCFgYLBnrsjE9lL9XTbUDytAdEwanrlw8Sk0RN7dsIY85ljUWgKtdN5fkvLv_xXn/s320/Campbell%20Farm.JPG" width="320" /></a></p><p>I asked a guy what was happening and he said the city had rented that section from Mr. Campbell because pipes on the road are being replaced. He also said Campbell was removing all the lemon trees and putting in avocados, as they're more profitable. Interesting...</p><p>Continued on my way and took my docent costume--the skirt, that is-- to the dry cleaners. The seamstress had me put the skirt on, she pinned it, and it will be hemmed, cleaned, and ready on Friday. Stopped into Smart 'n' Final and got four orange sweet peppers and a nice pumpkin squash.</p><p>When I turned back into Hill Road, I ran into my pal, David, the ornithologist. He was on his bike, about to ride up in the hills, but stopped to chat and we settled into a half-hour of complaining about management's nefarious ways. That's always fun.</p><p>It was a wonderfully warm and sunny day, so I made a sandwich, and took it and a beer, and my book, to the middle and ate my lunch there. It was so quiet and pleasant, my neighbors at work, the kids in school, the gardeners elsewhere. </p><p>Back inside, I chopped the peppers and put them in the freezer to be ready for my next stir-fry. Did some computer stuff, took a 20 minute nap, then called Ellen and we had a good talk. She's winding down her teacher-life with just three months to go--<i>YAY! </i></p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-28623459983598562972024-03-13T06:23:00.001-06:002024-03-13T06:23:07.683-06:00Tuesday<p>Got a fair amount done yesterday. Left about 9:30 and had plenty of time to go to the hospital billing department. Pled my case about the emergency room charges--why should getting the stitches out cost as much as getting them <i>in</i>? However, I didn't persuade the billing person, so the hell with it, I'll pay it and forget it. </p><p>I had plenty of time after CMH to go to Miramar, pick out some frames, and pay for my glasses, which should be done in a week or so. I then kept my appointment with Amanda, the audiologist, about the problem with getting the left aid in. I was there for quite a while and in her presence, tried to insert it, but I just couldn't do it. She conceded that I have a small and twisty ear canal and then injected pink plastic into my ear, let it harden, took it out. She'll send it away to have a new tip made and, hopefully, I'll be able to handle it.</p><p>Walked back to the transit center/mall and went to Target for oatmeal, grapefruit, tartar sauce, and blueberries. Bused home, had lunch, and called Noreen. Tenttively, we'll go to <i>Comic Potentia</i>l on the 23rd and before that, will meet for lunch sometime next week. </p><p>Suzanne texted Vickie and me to see if we could go over to her place for one of our get togethers on Friday or Saturday. However, V. and I are going to the scattering of Bennie's ashes on Saturday and we both have commitments on Friday, so Suzanne will postpone until later. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-7324717904647009902024-03-12T06:11:00.000-06:002024-03-12T06:11:05.943-06:00Monday<p>This laptop has been very slow, so I packed it up and took it over to Asurion, right next to Von's. The guy told me it was old. things were wearing out, so I should probably get a new one. Went from there to the post office for a few things, then back home. </p><p>I had planned to keep my appointment with the audiologist at 2:30, then go to Miramar (eye) to get the RX filled, then to Community Memorial to negotiate about the $90 charges. However, I scrapped all that when Rick for Yondoo Communications called to say he was on-campus and could he stop to look at my devices? Switched the ear appointment for 11:30 today and will fit in the other stops I want to make, which are in the same general area.</p><p>Rick was here for an hour and he changed my modem, then--incredibly--restored my Firestick. He may have even fixed it so I can get cable, took, but once he left, I didn't remember how. I don't care, though, as I prefer what's on the paid stuff. I actually sat down in daylight and watched <i>Super Size Me</i>, which came out twenty years ago. I have the book <i>Fast Food Nation</i>, published in 2001, which follows a similar theme: the danger of the crappy fast-food that seems to still have such a hold on this country. </p><p>Went over to Von's for goodies--i.e. apples, spinach, and broccoli. Scrubbed and trimmed the two pounds of carrots I had bought the other day and popped them in the slow cooker with white wine and Italian seasoning. Prepared the broccoli and along with leftover chicken and kidney beans, had that for yummy dinner.</p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-75402937733396732632024-03-11T08:07:00.000-06:002024-03-11T08:07:04.039-06:00Sunday<p>Crossword was challenging, but I was pleased to get most of it. I pleased about something else I got: a bill from Community Memorial for $90 and that's for only my first visit of three to the emergency room. This was on January 14, two months ago when I hurt my foot, which means I'll have two more coming. Damn, if I had known SCAN didn't cover all of it, I would have waited to get the stitches out until I could get to Primary Medical. Oh, SCAN did cover most of it, as the full charge was $2,287! I'm going to fight this. </p><p>Aside from all that, Noreen called to say she couldn't go to the show last night, but that was okay. I had two others coming. One of them came over at 2:30 for the 5:00 performance and after visiting for a bit, we went to Blaze Pizza for an early dinner (or late lunch). Then it was off to see:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5FUAw-KIYTjs0l8EXtDxCzG937uxga-YiAIVXPo2JXcr_QB-ZEcrmP8yFfmA8g0Da0oW5tSbnB985bviHQ7ADJectELOHgg2_1FyBlDYmhj6wUsuhfoEu7p15ddW1CDE-icvc2dFr-DhjQoaaUgRjddqXoEuL4mNUNpM78bmT-M9xEu-OIsz4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1000" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5FUAw-KIYTjs0l8EXtDxCzG937uxga-YiAIVXPo2JXcr_QB-ZEcrmP8yFfmA8g0Da0oW5tSbnB985bviHQ7ADJectELOHgg2_1FyBlDYmhj6wUsuhfoEu7p15ddW1CDE-icvc2dFr-DhjQoaaUgRjddqXoEuL4mNUNpM78bmT-M9xEu-OIsz4" width="320" /></a></div>Lynn joined us in the front row and it was an absorbing show. The title, it seems to me, is somewhat misleading at first glance, as it was more a satiric look at AI and what is human. It was a good-sized cast--twelve, some of them playing two roles--and I knew and had performed with ten of them. After the bows, they came into the audience and I was pleased to be greeted and hugged by those I know.<p></p><p>But horrors: wine and beer is no longer served, as we found when we went to get some at intermission, What? How come? Not sure, but I'm willing to bet they never did have a liquor license and somebody decided it wasn't a good idea. Tentatively, Noreen and I had discussed going to another performance and if we do, maybe we'll bring our own. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-64920648646015390382024-03-10T07:21:00.001-06:002024-03-10T07:21:50.323-06:00Saturday And Some Kinfolk<p>After breakfast I was happy to hear from Noreen. We had a good talk and I invited her to come with me and two others to <i>Comic Potential</i> today. She accepted the invitation and will join us there, as will Lynn.</p><p>I then got my cart and bused to the transit center and from there, walked to Community Memorial. I had to wait only fifteen minutes, then got the stitches ("sutures") out, and that was it. I was told to keep the sutures dry, but I don't remember for how long. Annoyingly, the printed instructions I was given didn't mention it. I really want to wash my hair as soon as I finish breakfast, but I don't want my arm to fall off or something.</p><p>I've been hankerin' for cabbage fritters, so stopped at The Market on the way back to the transit center. I usually buy a whole cabbage and fine-shred it myself, but that's such a chore, Insteaad, I took Diane's advice and bought the kind shredded for cole slaw. Went to Target and got blueberries and Almond Breeze plant-based milk, then bused home.</p><p>Didn't get lunch until after 2:00, but that was okay. Lora texted that she was mad at me because I hadn't asked her to take me last Saturday to the hospital. Little did she know I had just gotten back from busing there to get the stitches out. She's a lovely young (well, it's relative--she's 68). </p><p>Made the fritters, had some for dinner, and they slightly different from cabbage only, but good. Had some for dinner, froze the rest, and will continue to enjoy them for some time. I like to use tartar sauce as a dip for them and have some of the bought kind, but thought I'd try to make it myself. I was surprised how simple it is--mayo and chopped dill pickles, plus some seasonings. </p><p>Two of my relatives just came out with books, including nephew Dave Wessel with his novel featuring his father, my brother-in-law, Carl. The title, <i>Choosing Sides, </i>refers to his parents' dilemma at the approach of World War II. Should they remain in their native Germany, or settle to the U.S., where they had lived for a time? I dislike fictionalized history, but I'm looking forward to this. Here's Dave with his first shipment: </p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNiD1XTjqLCt4a6l7uJBlfaXabp0EWZxW4lsIZzYIJuUxv9PvzJcdILyNveeOWoRs6VvQpobprQvg28h3qh0mEBRAHOq69AwSlP-OfNlTITZPxS2K6XdAesJqUDdLz4EtjCCdXNeHaZ0mcRkUOdRvBov21yYarK2A-WgRSBBzzVQySC9VEXlyI" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNiD1XTjqLCt4a6l7uJBlfaXabp0EWZxW4lsIZzYIJuUxv9PvzJcdILyNveeOWoRs6VvQpobprQvg28h3qh0mEBRAHOq69AwSlP-OfNlTITZPxS2K6XdAesJqUDdLz4EtjCCdXNeHaZ0mcRkUOdRvBov21yYarK2A-WgRSBBzzVQySC9VEXlyI" width="180" /></a></p><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">My cousin, Marifran Korb, daughter of my father's brother, just brought out non-fiction book about the problems depression can cause in a marriage. Here's Marifran and the cover: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhq71_Lg_9PloP1sb_Pt0DoPGf8r8O9492ykUnxyU6lhGuAK9_7vUnCsu4UlYPREniYieurAdUY8hq2dGQXsgra6fA9YnovsYjoLlleG-Pvl629uru1unmZTiOzlpEw3ttnhL9D3B29aEpZAsDm8S-csgLTVRb9BETKVDtfBrElmhu1kxde4cmp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhq71_Lg_9PloP1sb_Pt0DoPGf8r8O9492ykUnxyU6lhGuAK9_7vUnCsu4UlYPREniYieurAdUY8hq2dGQXsgra6fA9YnovsYjoLlleG-Pvl629uru1unmZTiOzlpEw3ttnhL9D3B29aEpZAsDm8S-csgLTVRb9BETKVDtfBrElmhu1kxde4cmp" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpP_ImWJjzFZAS0HOk5wTLRrzebXa2PgK9x81KVCSkwpKdYhntPohVTNsGL2ZHgrc4o3Wr-oRSkRA-hHP89JRD1TGBZDFSlfuabhc_dQC0mj7qCoJPlMHKYv2KfdrnF-xC7pgAN2CSGtroNFh6H2b-7hYFaqEUzlUmHEe0JIzzLp2KjkPfMC7F" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpP_ImWJjzFZAS0HOk5wTLRrzebXa2PgK9x81KVCSkwpKdYhntPohVTNsGL2ZHgrc4o3Wr-oRSkRA-hHP89JRD1TGBZDFSlfuabhc_dQC0mj7qCoJPlMHKYv2KfdrnF-xC7pgAN2CSGtroNFh6H2b-7hYFaqEUzlUmHEe0JIzzLp2KjkPfMC7F" width="150" /></a></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I ordered both of them from Amazon yesterday.</p><p style="text-align: center;">💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫</p><p></p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-21046323030837002942024-03-09T06:01:00.007-07:002024-03-09T06:02:50.528-07:00Friday<p>Home--weight stable at 123.8; T.O.P.S. up 0.9 to 125.5, well within my zone, so okay. I had completely forgotten that Lennie had asked me to conduct the meeting, as she wasn't going to be there, so I just fabricated something on the spot. Worked fine, especially as there were only four of us: Cheryl, Sharon, Lora, and me. You can be sure it was brief. That meant I have to wait to see if the hearing aid can handle soft-spoken Lennie, but not for another two weeks, as I'll miss next time. That should make for a cheery weekend: Anne's funeral on Friday and the scattering of Bennie's ashes on Saturday--<i>sigh</i>.</p><p>After breakfast, I called Bobbi and learned about her accident. She said she was told it was a bad break: her ankle and some of her leg are involved, for which she'll have surgery next Friday. Unfortunately, she'll be out of commision for a minimum of six weeks--won't be able to drive, so can't get to T.O.P.S. </p><p>Made and packed my lunch and set off at to keep our (Lunch at the Library) date with Diane. It was later than usual--1:00--as Diane had her meditation group at The Townhomes first. We talked and talked, as ever, solving the problems of the world (at length!) and I didn't get home until almost 4:00.</p><p>Got a Messenger message and picture from Mike, on his early-morning, marathon bike rides (46 miles). He asked about the hearing ads and I told him right was all right, but left was not, and I'll see the audiologist on Monday. </p><p>Today is free of appointments, commitments, obligations, and all that jazz, so I think I'll see what I can scare up.</p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-14802292891339671602024-03-08T06:26:00.004-07:002024-03-08T07:05:35.326-07:00Thursday<p>I electronically signed the lease for the Sweetwater house (well, it's the only one I have) and sent it back to agent Kim. I'll let my friends on the street know that a mother and daughter will be living there, and from all I can see from their backgrounds and know from Kim, will be good neighbors. </p><p>I put the hearing aids in right after breakfast, which I think will be my routine, and they're working well. I'm still having a problem with inserting the left one all the way in the ear canal, but it's not a total blank. I'm experimenting (read "playing around") with the phone controls and enjoying it. I made an appointment with Amanda for Monday afternoon, so she can guide me further with the left one.</p><p>Cleaned up a bit, then walked first to the P.O. to mail St. Patrick's Day cards, then Von's for Cabernet Sauvignon for Jim. I had bought a frozen Pad Thai at Costco when we were there a few weeks ago, so decided to serve that and just put out soft rolls, too. Actually, it turned out to be pretty good. Didn't make a dessert, but had some strawberry yogurt and gave him that.</p><p>I was thrilled that I was able to hear his infuriatingly soft-spoken voice and hardly had to ask him to repeat at all. After lunch, we sat on the couch and again, did a crossword puzzle together. I'm so glad I thought of this last year or so,because it's so difficult to have a conversation with Jim. He almost never initiates a conversation simply doesn't talk. Once I run out of questions to ask him, it's just me babbling and I get sick of listening to myself (he probably does, too). I was glad to hear, though, that, besides being visited by a nurse, "somebody" is coming to clean his apartment. He doesn't know where they're from--I assume the Agency on Aging--and seems to have no curiosity about that. </p><p>Jim didn't leave until almost 4:00 and after I cleaned up, I talked on the phone, then called HEARUSA and made an appointment with Amanda for Monday afternoon. I'll cancel if I can get the left aid in and I'll keep trying. </p><p>Another big test for the aid will be today at T.O.P.S. Our leader, Lennie, has a very soft and unprojected voice (oddly, as she sings in a choir) and I'm hoping I won't have to keep asking her to speak up. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-3452063940192721342024-03-07T07:11:00.004-07:002024-03-07T07:11:39.725-07:00Wednesday<p>More rain, just the drippy-drip kind that didn't start until 10:00,but continued all day. Before it started, I rearranged a few things on the patio and did some other minor tasks. Right after breakfast, I started on the hearing aid procedure. The right ear was fine--slipped in easily, but left continues to be problematic. It's hard to believe that the ear canal isn't just a straight shot, but seems to twist and turns very slightly, so is hard to get the functional part of the aid in--I'll persist, though. What I like is the fact that I can turn volume up or down so easily on my phone. There are controls on the aids themselves, but they're tiny, of course, and it's a lot easier on the phone. </p><p>The important thing will be, though, whether I hear people in conversation face-to-face. The ultimate test? Of course--<i>Jim! </i>I called him and he accepted my invitation to lunch today. Chatting, he told me that the person from Ventura Behavioral Health "complained" that he was too thin (that's how he put it, anyway), but he doesn't know how to gain weight. I told him to go on-line, but I know he won't, so I found and printed out a number of advisories on that topic. He also said "somebody" came into to clean his apartment yesterday. I'm assuming he's now getting this assistance from the Agency on Aging, but he really doesn't know himself. Just angels from heaven, I guess.</p><p>I continue to be frustrated with the T.V. thing. Called a guy to cme fix and, since I can get cable, he said it wasn't the T.V., it was the Firestick. It seems impossible to get to Firestick, though--I've tried. </p><p>Didn't do a lot else except julianne three big onions and store them in the freezer so they're available for stir-fry. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-13175557743193261422024-03-06T06:09:00.005-07:002024-03-06T06:09:52.448-07:00Tuesday<p>Did mucho work on the patio and a lot was accomplished: weeding and clearing out; the removal of several plants; alive and artificial; selecting pots, shelving, and other gardening items for removal; washing the others; and a multitude of other tasks.</p><p>That was finished by 2:00 and then it was off to COSTCO for my sixty dollar membership refund. Stopped at the post office, but it was so jammed (why on Tuesday afternoon? Dunno), I left. Went back later in the day and it still was, so I'll walk over there this morning.</p><p>The high point of the day: I kept my 3:00 hearing aid appointment and got them. Amanda walked me through the whole thing, the most troublesome being insertion, but I'm going to keep at it until it works. After, it was dinner at the new Thai place right across at the Von't shopping center. It was so good.</p><p>Home, then a lot of time spent on the right way to insert the aids. It's so frustrating, as I've my fingers have gotten so clumsy, but I'll keep with it. Overall, I'm very pleased with them, especially as I'm able to regulate sound and other factors via my phone. Also, wonderfully helpful is that they don't have batteries, but a charger, so I don't have to fumble around trying to insert the tiny things. </p><p>Julie called to say she has a cold and isn't going to the BCNN meeting today. Just as well for me, because I've mentioned before, I find the meetings so-so; what I enjoy most is the lunch after. I want to do some minor modification of the patio, anyway, plus maybe finally get to Ralph's.</p><p>Confession time: Something happened this past Saturday, that I didn't want to mention, but I've changed my mind. While I was emptying my newspaper waste into the recycle bin (the lid of which you have to hold up), I cut my lower arm on a piece of particle board. Thought I should get a tetanus shot, so bused to the hospital, went to the emergency room, was there two hours, got the shot and four stitches, then bused home. I've been following instructions as to treating it and, luckily, there's no sign of infection. I go back on Sunday to get the stitches out. Must go early, as friends and I are attending <i>Comic Potential</i> at 5:00. </p><p style="text-align: center;">💟💟💟💟💟💟💟💟💟💟</p><p>Re the pictures yesterday of the Soaring Spirits gang. Our leader and my dear friend, Vera, took them, so wasn't shown and I didn't want to leave her out. Not yet fifty and having just lived through a breast cancer scare, she's thrilled and overjoyed to be alive--and it shows: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAUWpN6iFJzBO_Yc_-zyH78xBANB-Z9AYnQRF6PtFE0WrMaDR7LhYe4Sz4UgVM8JNu6IAA33955UDBRWdZvzxOWDnUYYt9s9n117FJLzTSvJ-ueBQekEs44Ajrd_LvLMOslkWwOQfq3jJiNjM_cYkl6s2UlqLdAk8_w3Ap2Xw9OoRB-yDeuRF/s697/Vera%20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="447" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAUWpN6iFJzBO_Yc_-zyH78xBANB-Z9AYnQRF6PtFE0WrMaDR7LhYe4Sz4UgVM8JNu6IAA33955UDBRWdZvzxOWDnUYYt9s9n117FJLzTSvJ-ueBQekEs44Ajrd_LvLMOslkWwOQfq3jJiNjM_cYkl6s2UlqLdAk8_w3Ap2Xw9OoRB-yDeuRF/s320/Vera%20.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><p></p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-42598363669252238572024-03-05T06:28:00.025-07:002024-03-05T07:03:06.868-07:00Monday<p>I had postponed the sacred Sunday ritual--<span style="font-family: Lobster;">The Changing of the Bedclothes!</span>--and did it yesterday after showering and washing my hair. Took off about 10:30, walked to Telephone Road, and hopped on the 11 bus to meet the Soaring Spirits gang Stone Fire Grille. I was early, as ever, so strolled around Kohl's and Sprouts until 11:30.</p><p>Vera was there already, along with Susan, Gayle, and several others. We all hugged and congratulated Vera on her "all clear" breast cancer scare. I wanted to buy her lunch, but Gayle beat me to it, and already had; I'll do it next time. Gayle also offered to take me to Anne's funeral. I was pleased to see my old friend, Barbara, who had retired as CEO of the Ventura Fairgrounds, and there were a number, including four men, which is unusual. Two had been with us before and one had lost his (male) partner just a month ago. Anyway, it was a good group and we had a convivial time: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjq6gELg5X05BZ_ZSH2dTey7tB5oqH2_z2_fMqdPGIYYUMTfqbajb0kvcNJmoTyKg93DWnSCbDUl9PPugS3UohmsANUdUwwCUEyc97_SuI7Wqsg5grUpGpaabw2Dpmhjuxg8_Z5hhbDJeOT4GdkPUiYV1YGsDEjiwmbFffmjcE9tymLtf1VNphh" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2040" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjq6gELg5X05BZ_ZSH2dTey7tB5oqH2_z2_fMqdPGIYYUMTfqbajb0kvcNJmoTyKg93DWnSCbDUl9PPugS3UohmsANUdUwwCUEyc97_SuI7Wqsg5grUpGpaabw2Dpmhjuxg8_Z5hhbDJeOT4GdkPUiYV1YGsDEjiwmbFffmjcE9tymLtf1VNphh" width="181" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Above, I'm third from the left, Gayle to my left, Barbara across from her, Susan to her left.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfBy6TyVF3lwQ4iszE0cqXRfx2Ym1RdE7Z4yPCrx82M2W82GO1c5qPbqE5IrNcGoOCgRxT45CgL0GW-OCQbSd7qbYu4kRUY79w19lIsfMegBOuUKe6x8DInsGjyPrALgdNGY1CoIanrHbfEni52bXgzSD--wdeOL_lP9Hn_StRwkdJ5OEpOm-p" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2040" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfBy6TyVF3lwQ4iszE0cqXRfx2Ym1RdE7Z4yPCrx82M2W82GO1c5qPbqE5IrNcGoOCgRxT45CgL0GW-OCQbSd7qbYu4kRUY79w19lIsfMegBOuUKe6x8DInsGjyPrALgdNGY1CoIanrHbfEni52bXgzSD--wdeOL_lP9Hn_StRwkdJ5OEpOm-p" width="181" /></a></div></div><p></p><p>From there, I bused to the transit center, thinking I might continue on to town, but changed my mind and continued home. </p><p>Lorraine called to ask if I'd meet her in the middle (of the complex), where we often had, and bring her a copy of management's letter about certain rules about our patios and balconies. Incredibly, she doesn't have a computer (although she does have a cell phone) and she has emails sent to her daughter in L.A. Why in the world she doesn't have management send or put in her mail slot, a print copy, too, is beyond me. Obviously the daughter doesn't always bother to inform her mother of what she gets--incredible. Anyway, we met in the middle and I gave her the copy. She seems to think this is an outrageous action on management's part and doesn't realize they have the right to do it. Anyway, we sat and talked for an hour or so in the warm sunshine. Lorraine's main complaint is how high the rent is. Okay, why doesn't she move? Because the rents in other places are just as high or higher, of course.</p><p>As for the rules and regs re patios: Today is cleanup, then I go to HEARX for my hearing aid. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-12990625837694171332024-03-04T07:29:00.000-07:002024-03-04T07:29:03.510-07:00Sunday--A Downright Draggy Day<p>True the high point was doing a load of whites in the morning--big whoops, as the kids used to say. Nothing much else went on, aside from a short sojourn to Hallmark to get Valentine cards, including for those in their fifties and beyond.</p><p>I decided to walk to Ralph's for several things I saw the other day when I went with Lora. As I was leaving via the back gate, I ran into Leah, my upstairs neighbor, who's in her thirties and works in the coroner's office. We chatted a bit, then I started off. After less than a block, I was stopped in my tracks by the Santa Ana winds that come off the mountains and are intense. I thought no, sir, I'm not walking a total of three miles in this, and turned back.</p><p>At loose ends, I succumbed to temptation and, I'm embarrassed to reveal, watch television for three hours. Since I still can't get Netflix back, it was cable with lots of commercial. That was okay, as they were considerably more interesting than the programs. </p><p>After that, I walked over to Von's for bread and animal crackers. Okay, I just happened to see them and they're relatively low in calories, so I bought them. Wish I hadn't, as I over-indulged last night.</p><p>Today should be more enjoyable--Soaring Spirits lunch with Vera and our chums.</p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-82694186140265770332024-03-03T07:30:00.007-07:002024-03-03T07:30:44.491-07:00Saturday<p>Yet more rain! Nevertheless, Lynn picked me up at 8:45, and we drove to the home of fellow Dudley House-ers, Jan and Bruce. It's very large and is surrounded by beautiful tropical foliage, including a number of the orchids that Jan grows and will be entering in a tropical plant exhibit in Santa Barbara next week. I was surprised to hear we four were the only ones who had signed up for the Oxnard Farm tour, and after chatting for a half-hour or so and seeing no letup to the rain, we decided to scratch the trip. Jan will rearrange it for a less-iffy time.</p><p>Lynn is a non-stop talker and somewhat flighty. When we drove into my complex, she mentioned that she had been here a short time before. She's a member of Caregivers--volunteers for senior citizens--and she was delivering Valentines. The intended recipient lived here, but when she went to deliver the Valentine, Lynn found she had died. When? In December of 2022. Her name? Mary. Her partner, with whom she lived? Vickie. Yes, Lynn was referring to my friends, Vickie and Mary. Must tell Vickie. </p><p>So I got back home at 10:00 while the rain went on. I took out my ground turkey and chopped onions, defrosted them and combined with the usual additions and favoriings, stir-fried two portions, one of which I had for dinner. Took a short nap, otherwise, hung out and did this, that, and the other.</p><p>(Note to myself: See document and picture entitled "Sunday 3-2-24.")</p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-18770751204972422722024-03-02T06:19:00.002-07:002024-03-02T06:19:25.128-07:00Friday With Friends And Family<p> Rain again most of the day, but it turned out to be a good one, with plenty of contact with friends and family. As for weight, I had gains in both venues: up 1.6 at home to 123.8; up 1.7 at T.O.P.S. to 124.6. No prob, though, as both are still in my comfort zone. Lots of off-topic talk at the meeting; Bev was still out with vertigo, so just six of us, including Bobbi. Unfortunately, she later sent a text telling us she had fallen and broken her leg and ankle and won't be able to drive for six to eight weeks! I said I'd take the minutes. Lennie may not be there next time, either, so it may be iffy whether we even meet.</p><p>I gave Lora my gift for her new granddaughter, then she and I went to Danny's (not Denny's) for breakfast. There, we talked and talked and talked, mostly about family problems, and hers are formidable--both son and daughter are continuing concerns. After I had been served my scrambled eggs, sausage, and hash browns, I was amazed that so many people rave about Danny's. Geez, the eggs and sausage were both overdone--the latter definitely heated up from cooked--the so-called hash browns represented by a kind of splinter-cut or whatever it was, and tasteless--and even the toast was dry and cold. However, the coffee was superb, so I forgave all (especially since Lora insisted on paying 😄. She had given me a soft, kind of chenille jacket for my birthday, but it was a bit snug, so she returned it and got a larger one that fits well and gave it to me yesterday:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJXDA7M1KdczD7ga2XEWxJZeDq4dMeI_qmv6u5sSTJeWkcUD5rAQc7vFrDovAqNuOZu1z_NXeRITw5Owuhi7psI4wdyVdHBjW_GkLLV4IX1mcxWMDKL6qaSDnFE_zUReX6sR8zbaUsE461UyWR_Vb3Zkz2reNkDGfGhgZMo88QGRHr1wvSUNPt/s3133/Jacket%20from%20Lora.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3133" data-original-width="1469" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJXDA7M1KdczD7ga2XEWxJZeDq4dMeI_qmv6u5sSTJeWkcUD5rAQc7vFrDovAqNuOZu1z_NXeRITw5Owuhi7psI4wdyVdHBjW_GkLLV4IX1mcxWMDKL6qaSDnFE_zUReX6sR8zbaUsE461UyWR_Vb3Zkz2reNkDGfGhgZMo88QGRHr1wvSUNPt/s320/Jacket%20from%20Lora.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><p>After, we went to Ralph's Supermarket, where we met Todd, Lora's husband. I got blueberries. Todd and Lora well over a hundred and fifty bucks of food, and L. then dropped me off. I cleaned up the apartment a bit, then did some paper (read "computer") work. </p><p>My tenant, Susan, sent me a copy of her letter in response to management's about the trailer in the driveway. It's a long one and she explained the circumstances, including the fact that both she and Cliff were sick, and also that their moving date is within the time limit. She then chastised them for the mean, rude, unnecessarily brusque tone of management's<i><b> </b></i>letter. Susan ended with "Lastly, I would like to thank GOD that Rosemary turned down our offer to purchase her home. As much as we enjoyed living in Sunrise Bay, this has soured us beyond repair. The pettiness and uncaring attitudes of some has put a stain on your entire community." To me, she added: "Rosemary, I am sorry you were dragged into this debacle. I wish you the best of luck in the future." I wrote back that I'm in absolute agreement with her and regret this unpleasantness. </p><p>Lorraine called--again--and we talked a bit about meeting for lunch one of these days--again. Gayle called and we talked for some time, about Anne's sudden death and other things. I'll see her on Monday at the Soaring Spirits lunch. </p><p>Speaking of: I was overjoyed to get this text from its founder, my dear friend, Vera: "Ok, I am clear!" She was referring to the breast X-Ray she had last week. She's only 48, but her mother died of breast cancer at exactly that age. She was told there was an area of concern (or something like that), so had to make an appointment with an oncologist. That was yesterday morning and YAY! she's all clear. If she'll let me, I'll buy her lunch on Monday to celebrate. </p><p>Ellen called at 7:00--just getting out of school--and we had a good, long talk. It's always a pleasure to interact with her or any of my children. Later, Mike Facetimed me and we virtually visited. He and his friend had stopped for breakfast in the middle of a forty-mile bike ride, which exhausts me just to think about.</p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-42067871824932187802024-03-01T07:58:00.005-07:002024-03-01T07:58:55.990-07:00<p>Actually, it wasn't management, but Suzanne who left pages of the lease at my door. I don't know why she thinks I'm concerned about the patio thing because I'm not. However, I've been meaning to clean it up--the squirrels and the rain left a terrible mess--so this was an incentive. To that end, I spent roughly two hours<i> </i>and got about half done. (I'll have help today, tomorrow or Tuesday with the other half.) I drastically cut back both geranium plants, along with other foliage, including some of my ficus tree; filled my little cart three times to haul the trimmings to the trash area. Boy, it was intense, but double-plus-boy, it felt good to do physical work and the patio is shaping up well. Here's part of what I haven't done yet: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGXyhmz-ZLYo4y81kneLOyTagy_MCkUCJUKPbwL3RvwMNXUmvQleGjY_HScwj0SW-3y7sssz2mFKE8tSjg_n01fSP4DoIPoXfN1-C5Z3-GGVIxEWtxVEnsJ-VD4g8VVP_6QBiU9EqFQaHAEFwnzYNTwIy8rM29v_XcDcsmXgr_DeNo9cIk_6b/s4032/Patio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGXyhmz-ZLYo4y81kneLOyTagy_MCkUCJUKPbwL3RvwMNXUmvQleGjY_HScwj0SW-3y7sssz2mFKE8tSjg_n01fSP4DoIPoXfN1-C5Z3-GGVIxEWtxVEnsJ-VD4g8VVP_6QBiU9EqFQaHAEFwnzYNTwIy8rM29v_XcDcsmXgr_DeNo9cIk_6b/s320/Patio.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's both enjoyable and a great annoyance that there are towering pine trees near my place, as the needles cover the ground and are impossible to avoid. One of these days, I'll turn my attention to solving that problem, but it ain't gonna be soon. </div><p></p><p>Went over to Von's for salmon and veggies, then next door to Hallmark. I had bought a little "onesie" for Lora's new granddaughter, but decided I liked another one better, so exchanged it. The baby is named "Kalea," which is Hawaiian and means "joy" or "happiness"--Lora's adopted daughter being of part Hawaiian ancestry. Called Lora to find out how an ordeal she went though yesterday turned out. It was satisfactory, but the result is still pending. She invited me to breakfast after T.O.P.S. and I told her I'd go if it rains. Otherwise, I'm going to be finishing the patio.</p><p>Lynne, director of docents for Dudley House called to ask if I was still going with her to an event at a historic site in Oxnard tomorrow. Oops, I almost forgot, but yes, I am and she'll pick me up at 8:45 am. Lorraine, one of my kooky friends/neighbors called to chat, complain about management, and once again, we agreed to sometime bring lunch to the middle area (which I have to admit is nicely kept) and visit). </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-19267782857458391242024-02-29T08:14:00.037-07:002024-02-29T17:00:38.059-07:00Wednesday And Some Eyebrow-Raising Info From Management<p>I did a fair amount yesterday: a color wash in the morning, then a lot of food prep before I kept my 3:15 eye doctor appointment; also tested to see if the TV worked. I know the Firestick doesn't, but the cable has also been going out sporadically. I couldn't get a damn thing for awhile, and I called some TV repair places, which I may or may not use. However, later, I fooled around with it and turned off a red button and suddenly, it worked. I'm not so sure it'll continue, though, and I couldn't tell you what all I did. It's annoying and I guess there are a few things on Netflix I'd like to see--and I'm paying for it--but overall, I don't miss it as long as I have the laptop.</p><p>As for food prep, I scrubbed and rough-chopped my two pounds of carrots, dressed them with olive oil and Italian seasoning, and popped them in the oven. I then chopped my three pounds of tomatoes, but realizing I was out of onions, put them aside. Busied myself otherwise until the Lyft guy, courtesy of SCAN, picked me up and took me to Miramar eye docs.</p><p>That went fine, although Dr. B. neglected to tell me what to put on the eye that's a little red. (I know he can't be as old as I am, but he gives that impression). I can probably find something; if not, I'll call the office back. He did say the macular degeneration is stable and gave me an prescription for new glasses. I also have an checkup appointment with Dr. Trotter in September. </p><p>I cancelled the Lyft home, as I want to keep up my exercise. Walked the half-mile or so to the stop, then bused home, getting onions on the way. Chopped six of them (one a fine dice), combined them with the tomatoes and garlic, and added oil and seasoning. I actually forgot the vinegar I usually put on, so added it later. Put in the leftover fresh string beans, too, and had a vegan meal for dinner. </p><p>I ate late and was just finishing about 7:00, when Suzannae called. We had gotten a letter the other day from management pointing out that on page 46 on the new lease, there's a directive covering patios and balconies. In the usual in-your-face attorney language, it specifies that in their outdoor areas, residents can't display too many potted plants, can't store sporting equipment, can't fornicate there (oh, wait--they didn't add that, so I guess it's okay), and so on. I guess the bottom line is, you'll be evicted if your geraniums are the wrong color. Suzanne, being brought up in the guilt-is-my-middle-name tradition, takes it very seriously, but I barely glanced at the letter and certainly didn't read the whole lease. I doubt if people will be hauled out of their homes because the geraniums aren't blooming, but will take a look outside to see if I should be worried about my upcoming homelessness. </p><p>Ha-ha! I just opened the front door to look for the paper (once again, I didn't get one) and found copies of several pages of the lease to the effect that window signs are prohibited, as well as all the crapola about the patio. I removed my signs:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_R40nZy0BTlf1coIH8HiNOLDmPeiTIkodw4VhDrzftUnVEYiY9ryjFU9ITeCKCQV81nbxti2QaooV6gMmvytQafzN3qDZXGNGXUNyOqOYvM0sKMB_iwKYmcYEs2Aj7FKdiSQMXxab2I1IFqjzXTQsxajBI-UbqwjBOcUZn8vTwIC7T5-Rg69x/s2325/Anti-War%20window%20signs.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2325" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_R40nZy0BTlf1coIH8HiNOLDmPeiTIkodw4VhDrzftUnVEYiY9ryjFU9ITeCKCQV81nbxti2QaooV6gMmvytQafzN3qDZXGNGXUNyOqOYvM0sKMB_iwKYmcYEs2Aj7FKdiSQMXxab2I1IFqjzXTQsxajBI-UbqwjBOcUZn8vTwIC7T5-Rg69x/s320/Anti-War%20window%20signs.JPG" width="312" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To be honest, I'm surprised I wasn't chastised about these before, as I've displayed them in my bedroom path-facing window for a year or more. Guess I'll bet around to the patio sooner or later. </div><p></p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-58202926521620560382024-02-28T07:11:00.000-07:002024-02-28T07:11:15.107-07:00Tuesday<p>I woke up with what I think is an eye infection: red, slightly sore, but not too worrying. Called Miramar and since it's in the same complex as HEAR, where I was going yesterday, I asked if I could come in just to get advice on how to treat. Oh, no, no, no, heaven forfend anybody can get an unscheduled consultation, even if the eye was spinning around and sending out sparks . However, the staff person said I could come in today at 3:15. I then realized I have a regular appointment on March 29, so could I combine them? Wonder of wonders, she allowed that, so that's good, especially since I'm sure I need a new prescription.</p><p>Courtesy of my SCAN insurance, I had reserved Uber to get to the audiologist. The guy was late getting here, so I was late for my 1:00 appointment, but had to wait only about twenty minutes. Luckily, I didn't need a new hearing test, as I had had the first HEAR just a few months ago. I was told what I'm getting is the top of the line and costs $6000; however, SCAN will pay all but $1600 and I'm fine with that. </p><p>I left there and walked the few blocks to The Market and bought apples, carrots, and tomatoes (I had my cart with me), then walked to the transit center (a mile and a bit), and bused home. I had had a sparse lunch, so made myself a snack of leftover roasted cauliflower. I then washed, cored, and seasoned my six apples and roasted them together in the oven. I'll be having one for the next six nights.</p><p>I got some bills paid and filing done, then went to checked my email. There was a message from Sunrise Bay management, telling me my tenant has had a trailer in the driveway for several weeks and this is in violation of the rules; if it's not removed within thirty days, my tenant will be evicted. Considering that is only a few days before they're scheduled to leave anyway (the the first week of April), I'm not terribly concerned. However, I forwarded the notice to Susan and I'm sure she'll take care of it. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-75085774178812276752024-02-27T08:03:00.000-07:002024-02-27T08:03:07.757-07:00Monday<p>Cloudy, cool, and it even rained, so it was an unpleasant day, right? Wrong, it was great! Went to the Boatyard Pub at Ventura Harbor for fish tacos and talked and talked and talked, openly and with no subterfuge to one of the few people I can do that with. I was out for four hours, then went home to try to bring my TV back--in some form, anyway, but with no luck.</p><p>Diane emailed that she had lost her key on the way home and had to pay $150 to a locksmith to have another made. I was absolutely stunned. She lives in an apartment house; management must have duplicate keys for all units. That's probably a law, but also, it makes no sense that they wouldn't. What if there's an emergency or if the place needs to be entered when residents aren't home? If something needs to be done at my place when I'll be out, management calls to ask permission to enter. They certainly don't have to ask me to be there. </p><p>Julie called to ask for Rosa's phone number. She had met her at one of the BCNN groups, and thought she'd see her when the group met next. Now she's not able to go and she didn't want Rosa to think she's blow her off. Good--I told her how much I like Rosa and I think we three will sit together at the monthly meeting next Wednesday. </p><p>Going to the audiologist today--again--and hope to finally resolve this hearing aid thing before too long. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-65839057730699486572024-02-26T06:19:00.000-07:002024-02-26T06:19:02.352-07:00Sunday<p>Washed sheets, remade, did crossword. left early for lunch with Diane. Stopped into the library first and bought two books. We met up and settled down to one of our good long talk sessions. I brought an odd lunch: I discovered I had no bread and didn't feel like stopping to get some, so I heated up some meatballs and tomato sauce and packed them along with hard cheese and crackers, plus, of course, a can of IPA. The combination turned out to be pretty good, actually. </p><p>We talked over our usual range of topics--spiritualism, abortion, out Catholic childhoods (similar in some ways, vastly different in others), and the annoyances of getting older. Diane wants to go to the <i>Comic</i> <i>Potential </i>matinee and I agreed to go then, too. I'm already going on the tenth with someone else, so will attend twice. We parted about 2:30 and I bused to the mall and Target. Got two grapefruits, cauliflower, and a few other items. </p><p>Didn't get home until after 4:00 and as I passed Vickie's, she came out. She wanted to give me a slim pipe to use to disallow my sliding glass door to the patio to open, but I already have one. She came in for a bit and we had our usual "good friends" chat. After Vickie left, I immediately prepared my cauliflower (with mayo, parm, and garlic salt), and roasted it in the oven. I wasn't very hungry, so just had about some of that for dinner. </p><p>I'm out of the tumeric with ginger I usually buy, so contacted Greg to see if he had some in stock. He does, in a number of varieties, and I'll consider one of them. </p><p><br /></p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-12991318970984216382024-02-24T17:27:00.007-07:002024-02-25T08:01:30.562-07:00Saturday<p>I was horrified to receive a call at 7:00 AM from Gayle Butcher, of Soaring Spirits, telling me that our mutual friend, Anne Lazara, has died. But how could that be? Anne was a practicing neonatal nurse, only about 55, and as far as I knew, healthy and active. Gayle said Anne had complained of a persistent headache, her son took her to the emergency room, she was admitted, and died shortly thereafter. Here's Anne, who also ran a program at the hospital:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidqVfjoFg8IVe9oGuzII_c9k8RlunfrxXGMrcrNf9ra9JnNG2MDW7I6pppx0Kg-xq5t5zebkhpPtRR_UcJm6HQAXabY00aBDfu5Ne8zDrPIWoPzfUPIlAgALo8bmsyB-dPCtpqaWnirHEDc_daypOj1lGxcTpBxH9QfwkK2TYOXw0Eyr1pdn-9/s389/Anne%20Lazada.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="381" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidqVfjoFg8IVe9oGuzII_c9k8RlunfrxXGMrcrNf9ra9JnNG2MDW7I6pppx0Kg-xq5t5zebkhpPtRR_UcJm6HQAXabY00aBDfu5Ne8zDrPIWoPzfUPIlAgALo8bmsyB-dPCtpqaWnirHEDc_daypOj1lGxcTpBxH9QfwkK2TYOXw0Eyr1pdn-9/s320/Anne%20Lazada.jpg" width="313" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildfxaMoDwlzV2zeLVGjsQUdoxPAB3vBHOc2vzCsV7aG0YP4z89jAxgtFo4fJLmtOfabHUFQmWzXJv9fHN64jDCZafdBMkuhM6dMC89ZWuEFTBr9ilHy7Hrc40rzu4dj0yIEIF62EDk8OeyKyiRhfKHjl6CUy3aXmMM4UZJk1QOE547yyD2UVa/s2048/Anne%20L.,%20fetal%20monitering%20sign.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1439" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildfxaMoDwlzV2zeLVGjsQUdoxPAB3vBHOc2vzCsV7aG0YP4z89jAxgtFo4fJLmtOfabHUFQmWzXJv9fHN64jDCZafdBMkuhM6dMC89ZWuEFTBr9ilHy7Hrc40rzu4dj0yIEIF62EDk8OeyKyiRhfKHjl6CUy3aXmMM4UZJk1QOE547yyD2UVa/s320/Anne%20L.,%20fetal%20monitering%20sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Gayle will keep me informed with more information and funeral plans.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">I wasn't looking forward with much enthusiasm to the affair yesterday at the Universalist Unitarian church, but I had told Stella I'd go and didn't want to renage. As it turned out, though, I enjoyed it immensely. Here's the program:</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSAzWkhMzQokMM35jCT-RiEbdMnRET0MnEijMtI1k72AxU3zbBZ1Ntm31wB3FbAqGZNE7w41CTn3yx3jtEu9sWXLODxpsQCfzGHBuQBKXYqh6rzVTUZmKE-G7spJ8adcx1khcj3hXY7_mTSB54tweBWnPMXeIiftblE9fJkuqHwFFbY7bHIcQ/s3599/U.U.%20Homeless%20project%20program.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3599" data-original-width="2444" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSAzWkhMzQokMM35jCT-RiEbdMnRET0MnEijMtI1k72AxU3zbBZ1Ntm31wB3FbAqGZNE7w41CTn3yx3jtEu9sWXLODxpsQCfzGHBuQBKXYqh6rzVTUZmKE-G7spJ8adcx1khcj3hXY7_mTSB54tweBWnPMXeIiftblE9fJkuqHwFFbY7bHIcQ/s320/U.U.%20Homeless%20project%20program.jpg" width="217" /></a></div><p></p><p>Stella was late picking me up--while I waited, I call Jeanne Painter to see how her wrist was. Good, she said, and she gets the cast off today. I was surprised when she told me it was 75 degrees where she was--until I realized that was Florida, not Jersey.</p><p>Stella and I drove to the church meeting hall and I perked up when I saw there was a wine table--who would've thunk it?--and we sat down with a friend of hers and some neighbors, including a guy named Roger. After we sat down and started talking, I found he was an avid pickleball player. I told him I have family connections and he knows one of them.</p><p>The food, for a buffet-type spread, was standard, but really good--various types of lasagna, including vegan, both green and fruit salad, rolls, veggies, and other sides. Dessert was all homemade--cakes, cookies, and so on--along with coffee, tea, fruit juice, and so on, which I skipped favor of prosciutto. </p><p>The program was interesting, with some of the city council speaking, as well as program volunteers from the church. I spoke to one and complained mildly about the bike riders on Main Street--forget the homeless, this is important stuff!--but we mostly joked around. There was a silent auction and talks from those helped by the program. </p><p>Got home at 3:00 and did some filing and other paperwork, then just this and that. The Firestick still isn't working, so I can't get Netflix. All that comes on is cable and only some kind of Smart TV with a crime show. Guess I'll have to pursue it further. </p><p>Lunch at the library with Diane today.</p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-45964321297652221342024-02-24T07:58:00.000-07:002024-02-24T07:58:51.751-07:00Friday<p>Home: 2.6 off for 122.2; T.O.P.S.: 2.4 for a weight of 122.9. That's below my favored range of 125 to 130 and it's making me nervous. I feel fine, but have been--by my lights--overeating, so what gives?</p><p>Forgot to mention yesterday that agent Kim sent six pages of info--resume, credit report, and so on--introducing me to a woman who wants to see my house. She looks pretty good, so I gave permission. </p><p>Continued cleaning up and clearing out, natch, including the bottom of my long closet in the kitchen. I still have to turn my attention to under the sinks and under my bed.</p><p>Cleaned the counters in the kitchen and did some other housework. Prepared and baked three nice apples, as I like to eat one as a snack in the evening.</p><p>Yandoo Communications called and a nice woman tried to work me through retrieving Netflix, Amazon, and other channels, but it didn't work. I got the impression because I have a Firestick, I'll have to call them, too. However, she did get me back on cable and weirdly enough, as long as I can watch something for an 45 or so before I go to bed, I'm okay with it. </p><p>I was so pleased to get a Facetime call from Dee, the woman who bought my childhood home at 15 North Rosborough and with whom I've been friends now for years. She moved to upstate Pennsylvania years ago and, unfortunately, is seriously ill with a heart condition. She called me from the hospital and the topic of hospice has been advanced. Darn, I with it wasn't so. </p><p>Went over to Hallmark in the shopping center and bought a pretty little "onesie" for Lora's newborn granddaughter and a card. Will give it to her at T.O.P.S. on Friday (she didn't attend yesterday). </p><p>Stella's picking me up for the U.U. benefit silent auction today and Diane and I made a date for "lunch at the library" tomorrow. I'm considering a harbor cruise with the BCNN group next month; I'll see if Julie might want to go with me. </p><p><br /></p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17155711.post-57901747926863377182024-02-23T07:45:00.001-07:002024-02-23T07:54:50.217-07:00Thursday<p>For the first time in what seemed like forever, I bused to my old haunts in town. Cruised the shops, bought a blouse (old-fashioned word, "blouse"--I think everybody says "tops" nowadays). Anyway, it was a beautiful, sunny and warm day, so I took my lunch and ate at my old spot across from the mission:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQr3mpqAUthmOR7UmVbfJt_8zL4iUTJmqE_AT0x9G_nyej3N-znZP-Rd7aod_zzlBCW7_Oh_e63o6GcR4rzKXTpPvCu2oF_WIeVS0LGW__WQe0wgYUW5reTEMSPRT-ITSxaQ0jng3k2UBgxwMsxqytAAzDB09Jr_RmfWTny838ygisxMqOMZ0G/s4032/Mission%20feb%2022%2004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQr3mpqAUthmOR7UmVbfJt_8zL4iUTJmqE_AT0x9G_nyej3N-znZP-Rd7aod_zzlBCW7_Oh_e63o6GcR4rzKXTpPvCu2oF_WIeVS0LGW__WQe0wgYUW5reTEMSPRT-ITSxaQ0jng3k2UBgxwMsxqytAAzDB09Jr_RmfWTny838ygisxMqOMZ0G/s320/Mission%20feb%2022%2004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>Home, I had started in a few chores when Stella called about 3:45. She was at the condo she owns in east Ventura, checking it over, as it's about to be re-rented. Asked if I wanted to have dinner--or whatever you might term having a meal at that hour. Stella herself has a somewhat unconventional eating routine--actual, no routine. When she gets up, she has coffee and a banana, then often doesn't have what she terms "breakfast" until noon or 1:00. Yesterday, she hadn't had anything since the banana and coffee, so this was a combination, I guess.</p><p>I immediately agreed, although I wasn't very hungry. She picked me up and we went to Two Trees. It was still Happy Hour there, so I got a ceviche and an IPA--very good and just enough. We had a good time talking and firmed up our plans for tomorrow: She'll pick me up at 11:45 for the benefit lunch for the homeless at the U.U. church.</p><p>Darn, now I have to find a T.V. person. When I turned it on Wednesday night, it said "no signal" and has been the same ever since. Called Yandoo and they don't have a clue, either--in other words, it's not on their end. The electronic world is just conspiring against me, I'm afraid. </p>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15017592585596334313noreply@blogger.com0