MONDAY AND MORE FROM MY BIRTHDAY

Besides the gifts I mentioned yesterday--and the great time we had--I received these from my niece and her family:

I was delighted with the book, which was originally published six years before I was born--1930--and the idea is for the reader to make certain choices about whether to marry against her parents' wishes. It's a unique idea and a unique gift.

Got a text from Jonathan U., a guy in his thirties who appeared with me in Backstage Bedlam. He sent out an invitation to all in the cast, saying if we didn't have plans for Christmas to come over to his and his partner's place in Oxnard. Of course, I'll be at Ellen's, but hope to meet Maurtel another time.

My dear friend, Lora, who now lives in Arizona and we had long, long talk. She lost her grown son last year and was devastated, of course. We talked about her emotional state and she's getting along, partly by practicing two kinds of art: "alcohol painting" and "plate art." Here are some of her works:  

Didn't do a whole heck of a lot yesterday. Had  breakfast with Linda, Helen, and a new resident named Rick, who's mighty sharp for ninety. Lunch with Kathie, Cheryl, and one of the many Marys. After that, I got some things packed for the next three nights, took a nap, then had dinner with a couple I just met: Julie and Art, Jews from Brooklyn and I like them a lot. A friend a theirs, also a resident, came up to chat and I just had to take his picture: 

LOVE IT!

I understand my place will be cleaned and my bed stripped and remade today. It's supposed to be a weekly service, but I've been here eleven days, and this is the first time it will be done. Okay, I'll let it ride unless the lapse is repeated. 

Unfortunately, I had a restless night and awakened several times. I still have to complete packing, do a wash, and otherwise getting ready for my three-day sojourn at Ellen's for Yuletide.   

SUNDAY--MY BIRTHDAY

 Ellen gave me a wonderful eighty-nineth birthday! The Access Van took me to her place at 1:00 and shortly after, nephew-in-law, Dana got there. A bit later, niece Carolyn blew in, then their son, Finn, who's twenty-five, then Greg. El took our drink orders and we sat in the living room to talk, laugh, and catch up. After lots of visiting, El served a simple, but yummy late lunch or early dinner--her delicious chili, with additions of mixed veggies, avocado chunks, and Mexican chips.

She then presented me with her gift, a single-serve coffee maker, which I've been wanting because I now make only one cup in the morning and have the second in the dining room. Other gifts included a book, and this goofy one from goofy Mike:

And this beauty came from afar: 

I was hoping I'd be gifted with sone of these handmade Broken Pieces beauties!

It's too bad nephew Stephen, his wife, Robyn, and son Dexter couldn't be with us, but they had another commitment; I got birthday wishes from them, though, and from (literally) dozens of others. Here's a pic of the gathering: 

 

L. to R.: Finn, Greg, the birthday girl, Dana and Carolyn, Ellen,the hostess/photographer below:

Okay, I have to close this now, as it's time for breakfast. I'm going to be staying over at Ellen's until the twenty-sixth, also must acknowledge the birthday wishes, pack, and otherwise get up to par. I may add about yesterday on tomorrow's post. 

SATURDAY AND EIGHTY-NINE YEARS

Sat with Beverly and Al for breakfast and was pleased I was able to order poached eggs instead of the bacon and egg frittata on the menu. Doing that ensures it will be cooked to order. 

At 11:00, there was a weekly question and answer session with Director Mindy. I asked about the earliness of meals and learned that many of the servers are underaged, so aren't permitted to work more than a certain number of hours--or something. Okay, I'll live with it. Mindy also mentioned the possibility of me doing an acting class and I said we'd talk about it after the new year. She discussed the Happy Hour setup on December 26, a song and dance entertainer named Tatiana whom everyone said is terrific. I'll be staying over at Ellen's, and will see if she can take me home early; Mindy said she can come, too.

Lunched--I had a loaded baked potato--with Carol and yet another Mary, both of whom seem rather somber, then went upstairs and took a short nap. Enjoyed dinner with Beverlee, the graduate grad of Columbia U., who had her own counseling practice. She specialized in treating teenagers, which must have been a trip, and had lived in upstate New York. Joining us was Elaine, a native of Collingwood, N.J., who had also lived in Linwood.  Leslie sat down with us for awhile and we had some good, lively discussions and lots of laughs. 

Earlier in the day, I took this pic from my front door: 

Eighty-nine years ago today, for better or worse, I entered the world. Generally speaking, I'm glad I did.

FRIDAY AND THE LAST DAY

Mary Ann picked me up for T.O.P.S. at 8:00 and happily, it wasn't a complete disaster: At home, I was up by three pounds, so 133, but weighed in at the meeting only 1.7 up for a weight of 131.7  We aren't meeting again for two weeks, January 2, as leader Lennie will be in Greece, then the Galapagos Islands. Sharon skipped the Christmas theme and wore this snazzy outfit: 

"I tried to be good, but it got boring."

I had skipped breakfast, so just had toast and coffee at home.  then did a few chores. Lunched with Kathy, Mary and others, after which I put in a load of wash in the laundry room, right down the hall from me (there's one on each floor).  Joined Cheryl for lunch, hung out doing this and that after, then went down to the gathering room for Happy Hour. 

There was a terrific duo singing Christmas and Hannukah songs, along with oldies. The guy performer also imitated Elvis and did a credible job with the Elvis voice. Here they are initially: 

And in Elvis mode:

Back upstairs, I switched my wash to the dryer, tidied up a bit, then went down to dinner. Ate with Cheryl, whom I like a lot, and Mary, who brought up the topic of Trump. She is very upset that he's the in charge--in fact, that he exists at all--and was greatly relieved when I expressed my belief that he's a horses' ass. I had a stuffed pepper, which was served with a wedge of watermelon, kind of an odd combination, but was actually pretty good. 

Got my wash out of the dryer, folded and put it away, then tried to sort out my Christmas stuff--why did I bring all that??!!--and did a few other little chores, but there's still plenty left. Today is the last day I'll still be eighty-eight, which boggles my mind. 

THURSDAY

Believe it or not, I was pretty busy yesterday.  On the elevator going down to lunch, I met another newbie named Judy, who just moved in on Monday; sat with her and we were joined by Lois, whom I met before. I like both of them and will see them again. 

Yesterday was "Italia Day," with Italian dishes and tiramisu for dessert, plus--this was unexpected--red wine. This, I presume, was arranged by Activities Director, Mindy; here she is, pretending to be a tough gal:  

I had signed up for the van to go to Von's, which we did at 1:00. I didn't need much, naturally, just napkins, sweetener and a few other staples; bought some nice blueberries, too. Rick, the driver, first dropped off a woman I don't know to her doctor's appointment, then three of us went to Von's--yes, the one I used to frequent just by walking across the side street. The idea is that Rick drops shoppers off, then then when they're ready, they call and he comes back to pick them up. 

Back in my place, I made some calls, notably to Mary Ann B., to ask her to pick me up for T.O.P.S today--she lives nearby. I then called  Cheryl, to tell Mary Ann will take me.  Kim from SO-FI had called yesterday to see if I could come today while they inspect my former place. Nope and I told them to go ahead without me. 

I got these darling cards from Japan, the first for my birthday, the second for Christmas: 

This one closes to form a candle.

I'm still unpacking, putting things away, getting them out again, moving them elsewhere, and AAGH!  However, I'm making progress, if slowly. 

Sat with Kathy and Cheryl for dinner, plus others, including Beverlee, who was wearing a Columbia University shirt. That's where my older son got his masters degree and when I asked her, found that she had gone there for hers,  too (psychology). I love to meet others from Academia and we agreed to talk again.

Son Mike Facetimed me, just to see how things were going and after some family drama (I was agitated), we had good talk.     

Note to Pat: I forgot to mention my big annoyance: The fact that the monthly charge includes $55.00 for a medical alert. But my health insurance provides one for free, so I don't have to pay that, right? Yeah, you know the answer to that as I do, damnit. 

Well, I'd better straighten up and fly right, as I just got weighed to find an extra three pounds. We'll see if it's even worse at T.O.P.S.--(sob!). 

WEDNESDAY AND WES

Had breakfast with Catherine and yet another Mary,*  then continued the usual newbie chores. Ellen came at 11:00 and we unpacked the Christmas stuff; I put some around, but still have much too much. May donate more. 

El had brought her lunch, so didn't join me downstairs. Ate with Carol and yet another Mary and was surprised and amused when Chef Steve and server Bianca came from the kitchen with individual candle-lit cakes for Carol (hers is on the twenty-sixth) and me, everybody joining in, of course. 

With my helper, Ellen (ha! It's more like help her, of course), until she got a phone call from my nephew, Wes, who's visiting his sister, Carolyn, in Santa Barbara. (They're Betty's two oldest, of course). He asked if we were available for a visit. But of course, and he came about 1:00.

It was so very, very good to see him and we had a wonderful time catching up. Wes is an attorney in Chicago and is married to Heidi, also an attorney and their blended family includes five daughters and a son. I love him dearly, so much that I actually allowed him to have one of my IPAs and we had a wonderful time. Took pictures, of course, and I'll certainly post them here. 

After a wonderful reunion, Wes drove back to SB and El and I returned to the everlasting activities. She came with me to dinner this time and we ate with Allan, who was alone as Beverly didn't feel well. I like Allan a lot and we had good conversation. 

It was back to the job for a bit until El left. I won't see her again until Saturday when I take the Access Van to her place, stay overnight, then celebrate my actual birthday on Sunday. Carolyn and her family will come (Steve and Robyn had another commitment) and I'm looking forward to that with pleasure, of course.

*I may quit listing meal companions and just have the reader assume I sat with somebody, unless something notable comes up. BTW, I'm still trying to get used to the early mealtimes.

TUESDAY AND TERRIBLE NEWS

I had breakfast with Linda, Elaine, and Helen and enjoyed the conversation and the poached egg. Back at my apartment, I found a note on the door informing residents the fire alarm would be tested and go on and off for several hours. It did and was very shrill, but no big deal. Tidied up a bit and dealt with this and that chores, too minor to mention. 

I had gotten a Christmas present for the Tokyo Tot (who's now as tall as his parents), then realized the it's fewer than nine days away--darn! I called Ellen to see if she could get me to the P.O., but she couldn't. It then occurred to me to asked about Orchard transportation. Did so and happily Rick, the driver, got me there and back with no problem, so Mr. K's gift is on its way.

That was good, but this was terrible: I got a call from Ana in Encinitas. She and my cousin, Sally's son, Duane, had been a couple for years. They had a huge house where I stayed when I attended Sally's ninetieth birthday a few years ago. Three months after that, Sally's son, David, had suddenly died. Now Ani told me that Duane had died on Sunday, probably of a heart attack, beside her, in bed. Here are the three of us:

Sally herself died just three months ago and her other son, David, suddenly a month after that. Damn, I liked Duane so much and I'm so sorry for Ani. They'll have a memorial service in January and I want to go to that. 

Called Noreen and invited her for lunch on Tuesday. Stella called and we chatted for a bit. I must remember if I should contact any of my sister T.O.P.S. members to ask them to pick me up on Friday. Of course, I can always get transportation from here, I guess. 

Had dinner with Kathy, Cheryl, Dee, Linda, then Keith joined  us (we put two tables together). Keith is a nice guy, who characterized himself as "a former corporate hack." Dinner was so-so--I had   Ellen's coming today and we'll got to Target to pick up some items. 

MONDAY

I was late, as usual, for breakfast, but ate with new acquaintances Carol and Helen and enjoyed it. I then spent an hour or more transferring my books from the bedroom bookcase to the taller one in the front room. Also switched the microwave and coffeemaker from their former locations on the kitchen counter and the table next to it. When Ellen got here at 11:00, she positioned the Spanish dancers on top and hung the clock between the. Looks pretty nice: 

Had lunch with my next-door neighbor, Diane, and a women named Lavonne, whom I've eaten with before; Ellen preferred to stay upstairs and eat the salad she had brought. Diane seems nice, although she has a little lady dog, but I won't hold that against her. 

El and I went to the laundry room and did a wash. After, she and I went to the dump--Wal-Mart-- to get a few things, including a new device to hold shampoo and other items in the shower. El will be back tomorrow to install it, assuming it fits all right. El left at 3:00 to get to her dance class and I contacted new friend, Kathie, to see if she had room for me for dinner. Sure did, and the two of us and Cheryl met at 4:45 (so-o-o damn early!) for dinner. We were joined by Mary--about the fourth Mary I've met here--and a guy named something or other. Had a good time and then I saw Beverly and Allan. I went over to their table and asked if I could join them for lunch today--sure thing and I'll see them 11:45. 

Unfortunately, I had RLS last night; I'll consider a nap today. 

SUNDAY

More of the same unpacking and getting set up.  I was pleased and relieved to find the storage space is adequate, maybe close to what I had previously. We worked though the day and it's shaping up, although the big one is looming today: pictures and photos, mostly of family. Ellen came about 3:00 and, among other chores, secured the high bookcase to the wall. 

I had breakfast with Kathy and two others and enjoyed myself although I didn't enjoy the English muffin topped with a poached egg; I sent it back to the kitchen to be warmed. As I've discussed with my new neighbors, the food is adequate, but hardly gourmet.  

Had dinner with Kathy, Cheryl, and newcomer (six weeks in) Mary, who lost her husband only two weeks ago. We had a good fun time and after, Kathy took us to see here studio apartment. I was surprised at how large it is and the arrangement is adequate--a sort of L-shape--and it has a small balcony. When I got home, I transferred some of the books I had put in the low bedroom bookcase into the high one. I also switched the microwave with the coffee maker, which works better, I think. 

Ellen will be here at 11:00 and we'll continue our Mama-moving-in chores.

SATURDAY: A SHORT ENTRY ON A LONG DAY

I'm just going to sketch this out, as I know a particular reader has gone through this experience and could probably write it herself. Slept well and got up feeling good, not disoriented all all. Poured my coffee, topped off this blog and about 8:45, went down for breakfast. I had spoken with several residents and one hailed me as I looked over the balcony, inviting me to come sit with her and two others. I did and enjoyed getting to know them. After, Sharon called to ask how my first day went and we had a nice chat.

Back in my apartment, I got more of the boxes emptied, taking several hours until I broke for lunch; when my helper came, we  continued. This went on for hours, then we took a short walk in the small park just down the street. When we went down to dinner, the couple, Beverly and Allan, I had lunched with approached us and I invited them to sit with us.  (I used the old trick of association to  remember their names: "Beverly Hills" and "Allan wrench.")

After, my helper came and we continued the work and got a lot done.  For dinner, we went down to the dining room, Beverly saw us and said she had knocked on my door, but we had already gone. She and Allan sat with us, we ate, my helper left, I did a little more unpacking, then retired to my boudoir at 9:00. 

Today, my helpers will come about 11:00--can't wait to see them. Maybe we'll have lunch here or maybe go out. 

Note: From where we sat, we could see my front door, as it faces the balcony: 

FRIDAY AND SETTLING IN

 I'm in.

My helpers had the whole scenario laid out. I was picked up early on and taken to breakfast at the Hill Street Cafe while Ellen received the movers, who came about 9:30. We went to the harbor and the beach and and I took some of the hazy and overcast sky. I prefer the sun, but like life itself, his was so beautiful and mysterious, it was wonderful to be there: 

After the beach and back at my new place: The movers had left my possessions damage-free, but oh, boy, was there a lot to unpack, set up, move around, and put away. I had been dropped off to attend 

the weekly Happy Hour. This had a Christmas party theme. A terrific duo played and sang and I spoke to them after; gave them my card, told them to get in touch in January, if they might want to explore possibilities with Fractured Actors. Here they are, singing some of the old favorites: 

BTW, the Margaritas were good, too.

We then went back to my apartment to continue some of the settling in. Of course, it will take a long, long time to complete, but I can at least function. Ellen set up my laptop and T.V. and I was touched to find this note on my desk from my darling daughter: 

We said goodbye about 6:00, then put away a few more things, had just a bite to eat--I decided not to go to the dining room last night, as I gotten up at 5:15, and was very tired by then. Did some things on the laptop, watched a bit of T.V., then fell into bed. Slept like a stone until 10:30...

...that pain in the rear, Michelle, my former SO-FI neighbor, called at 10:30 to see if I was in my new place yet. I was barely coherent when I assured her she had awakened me and I wasn't happy about it. However, I fell back to sleep right away and just got up at 5:30.

Breakfast this morning is listed as French toast--maybe I'll try it, but if I'm not mistaken, I can order eggs or something as an alternative. Helpers are coming about 11:00 and we'll continue doing what we're doing.

Lucky me.  

THURSDAY AND DOWN TO THE WIRE

Slept okay and got up at 6:15. The whole place is, of course, more or less chaos, but now I'm used to it. After breakfast, I gathered all the items--medication, underwear, and so on that I'd need for this morning, stowed them in a carrying case, and put it near the door. Ellen came about noon and proceeded to clean, wiping down the cabinets, and a lot more. Once she got here, I took a shower and washed my hair, which felt good. 

We had lunch, then I took a nap while El continue the last minute stuff--until 2:30, that is, when we drove to Dr. Sui, my dermatologist, who sprayed my face lesions. Luckily, they don't seem to be a cause for concern. El and I were amused that we were finished and out of there about ten minutes before my actual scheduled appointment time, but hey, we weren't complaining.  

Home and El dismembered--or dismantled-- the T.V. and did several other chores. After she left, I thought of calling Muckie D. Did so, and we talked for a whole hour. I caught up on her cancer journey, which is, of course, on-going, but we also, naturally reminisced about HSHS days. I told her I had been touch with Bob McGinty (I don't think anyone calls him Muff anymore) and other grads. He isn't on Facebook anymore, but I came across this picture of him from the Atlantic County Squash Club nine years ago. He's the big guy on the right:  

For dinner, I had more of the yummy pizza Suzanne had sent me home with, along with the single IPA that was left here. The others IPAs, plus the rest of my fridge and freezer food, had already been transported to my new place. 

Okay, gang, this is it: 

                                                           MOVING DAY!

WEDNESDAY

Early on, I called brother Larry about my move and was alarmed to hear he had fallen two days ago. It was a horrifying scenario: He walked down his driveway to get his mail and incredibly, although he'll be 94 next month and it was dark and raining, he didn't bother to take his cane. He slipped and fell into a puddle onto his back and couldn't, of course, get up. Luckily, he had his phone and called 911, then his daughter, Elaine, who lives only four houses from him. She and her grown son came immediately and the 911 crew shortly after. Elaine and her son lifted him up and the others treated the scratches on his arms. Luckily, no long-term problem seems to have occurred, but a tragedy could have, as Elaine had driven to Larry's place in case he had to be taken to the hospital before the ambulance got there. If Larry hadn't remembered to warn her, Elaine would have driven over him! The hazards of growing old--whew.

Ellen came over at noon, bringing her her high-powered vacuum and proceeded to clean under my bed, which was very dusty. She then soothed and placated me after I had hysterics over the charge for the medic alert by my new place. I won't even go into all that, but I simmered down after I found out it was included in my rent. It still seems infuriating that they charge $55 a month, when I already have one provided by my insurance for no charge.

Another crises calling for my horrified response: I had removed the eight-hundred dollars cash for the movers from my purse, wanted Ellen to hold it, but couldn't remember where I had put it. But we looked, found it on the table where I had left it, Ellen will take charge of it, and the day continued on a better note. We took a short walk around the complex in the warm sun and that was so enjoyable.

Ellen finished her chore, then took me over to Von's for coffee, sherry, and a few other items. We parted about 6:30 and for dinner, I had leftover salad and what remained of El's good chili. Watched some T.V., then fell into bed, and slept soundly until almost 6:00. 

Today, day-before=transfer, my helpers will come early, then Ellen will drive me to my 3:20 appointment with the dermatologist in Oxnard. 

Wider:  t's getting closer and closer:

https://scheerpost.com/2025/12/11/house-and-senate-agree-to-make-draft-registration-automatic/

TUESDAY AND A PARTY

Yet another day of the usual packing up, but this one included a problem with my phone and Bank of America on which I don't want to elaborate. Luckily, Ellen seems to have resolved it, but it was a hassle. I called the Ventura Star to cancel the paper and was told, incredibly, that I was paid for the daily delivery until February something. Why was that? Because of the frequency of days it wasn't delivered. I demanded a refund and got all kinds of reasons why that won't happen. All right, I give up; must remember to drop the automatic payment.   

We continued the clearing out, had lunch, then El left and we went to The Orchard. We brought in the patio things--chairs, tables, and succulents--and I spent some time arranging them. I sat out there for a few minutes and greatly enjoyed it and the magnolia trees it faces. Also, I like the fact that when you walk in the door, the patio greenery is directly opposite.

We met more residents, all of whom seemed to be interesting people. Saw Anita doing one of her interminable jigsaw puzzles, and chatted with Barbara, whom I had met before. We also ran into Mandy, the activities director and she urged me to come to the happy hour on Friday. Hmm...that's the day I move in, so maybe I can--we'll see.

Home at 4:00 and had a small salad. Played my Jewel Match Royale until it was time to go next door to Suzanne for my going-away/birthday pizza party. It was so very pleasant to be with my two dear friends and the pizza was yum, yum, yummy, especially as Suzanne had asked V. and me what kind we like best and had it topped by thirds with our my favorite toppings Since I like all of them except pineapple, mine had pepperoni, onions, sausage, olives, anchovies, and maybe the kitchen sink.

 After we ate, I was presented with a yule log cake and the traditional song was sung: 

The three of us--boy, do I look haggard! 😣

I was then presented with gifts: from Suzanne, a wonderfully thoughtful kind of cloth carrier, which will come in very handy for the things I need right away when I move. Vickie gave me the book,  The Women, plus a lovely mug with this inscription: "She is clothed with Strength and Dignity--Proverbs 31;25."  We chatted and reminisced until about 7:00, then hugged goodbye. I'll certainly have those two over for lunch first thing after I settle in.

El called after I got home to discuss today's plan: More of the same, of course. 

MONDAY: KATHERINE AND A CAR RENTAL SNAFU

My mantra: sort, pack, donate, and toss--repeat every day, all day, with snarls of annoyance. Hey, if it wasn't for my helpers, that would be the drill, but happily, I'm getting through okay.

On Friday at the T.O.P.S. brunch, Katherine (my "newish" friend, as she characterized herself), offered to give me bubble wrap left over from her own recent move.. I appreciated it, but didn't know if any of us could get to her place to pick it up. Then that generous person texted to ask if she could drop it off. She could and she did and we were gifted with several large and small rolls, which were immediately put into use. Hey, newish or oldish, it's good to have such friends.

We toiled away and have actually finished most, including the fridge and freezer, except that which I'll use until Friday. We* then loaded the patio chairs and potted  supplement plants into the rental van, preparing to take them to The Orchard...but DAMN, the engine wouldn't turn over. The rental place (in L.A.) was called, we waited until they finally called back, then came to fix the van, but the problem wasn't resolved, so we stayed here, public transportation was called into play, and they're supposed to deliver a new car at10:30.  

This evening, Suzanne and Vickie are having me over for a little going-away pizza party, next door at Suzanne. I'm looking forward to that with pleasure. 

* "We?"--HA! My heavenly helpers did it all.

SUNDAY AND LISTENING TO THE MOON

Well, we're coming down to the wire--four days to go and boy, we haven't been sitting around. Started in with more clearing out and packing at 10:00 and pretty much continued all day. The mountain in the living room keeps growing, but that's progress: 

Ellen came over about 1:30, bringing her delish homemade chili. I had made sandwich, but wrapped and stowed in the fridge to eat today. We continued our work, then my bedside tables were delivered, which I decided I no longer want. El put them in her car and will return them via UPS. We then used Ellen' hand truck to pack some things in the car and took off for The Orchard. 

We got the stuff put into various closets, shelves, cabinets and drawers, then left. As I was locking my apartment door, a woman came up and introduced herself as Diane, my next door neighbor. I was surprised, as she looks considerably younger than 65. (Come to think of it, the age limit may be 55--will look it up.)  I was very pleased, as I sensed a vibe and hope we become friendly.

After putting things away, we went back to my place and toiled on until dinnertime. El then suggest we eat at Chili Basil, the Thai restaurant across from Von's. Did so and enjoyed it. We said goodnight after that and I got my p.j.s on, watched a little T.V., then flopped into bed.

😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 

Saturday at the El Roblar hotel: 

😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

Note One:

I forgot to mention earlier that El ran into Leah from upstairs, who said her mother and sister from Pittsburgh would be visiting for Christmas and she'd like us to get together for lunch. They won't get here until the 23rd, so we'll set up a date closer to then. 

Note Two: 

I found this on the Internet and it rang a bell with me; I must put it in practice: 

😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

SATURDAY AND MY BABY BOY

Talk about busy; yester was. We got into it just after breakfast, continuing our packing up and throwing out, which went on for hours after a brief break for lunch. Got the kitchen cabinets, shelves, drawers, and counters virtually emptied, as well as the hall closets and bathroom. Mike came and spent his time going over my income tax copies from earlier years, plus other financial stuff, then separating and discarding the older ones. Anyway, same old, same old until we left for Ellen's about 4:00.  

Monday had been Mike's birthday, but we decided to celebrate it a day late. Sat down together while he opened his cards and presents. As his real gift, I treated him for dinner. Here's the birthday boy on his last one as a fifties person: 

                                                                       

Above with his pal, Cessy.

We then left for dinner at El Robar, the newly opened restaurant at a new hotel in Ojai, where I understand rooms are six hundred bucks a night. We had such a good time and the food was excellent. I ordered oyster mushrooms; we laughed over the fact that I thought it was a dish with both oysters and mushrooms, but no--it was "oyster mushrooms"--ha-ha!*  It was excellent, though, and included a wonderful green sauce. I didn't take pictures then, but Mike did and I'll add when I get them.

After having a ball, we went back to Ellen's and I (sob!) said goodbye to Mike, who is leaving this morning. Happily, I'll see him in May at Vivian's graduation. Ellen took me home--I thought it was about midnight, but it was 7:30. With many thanks to my remarkable, beautiful, and loving daughter, I go into my p.j.s, watched T.V. for a bit, then stepped into Dreamland and was out until 6:15. Today, more packing and we plan to take some smaller items to the new place. 

* 
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are popular, oyster-shaped edible fungi known for their mild, slightly seafood-like flavor, meaty texture, and nutritional richness (fiber, B vitamins, antioxidants). 

FRIDAY PARTY

Cheryl picked me up at 8:45 and we went to our T.O.P.S. Christmas brunch at Maryann's place, which is very attractive and nicely decorated. Just as we came in, her husband was leaving. We met him and I told him I have and have read his pacifist book, A Great Flash of Light.  I was intrigued with her Nativity structure, a kind of grotto: 

Her patio has a lovely flowering vine; I want to ask Green Thumb what it is and hope to get some for my new place: 

Above: the flowering vine

Sharon and Cheryl, ready for brunch

Our hostess, Mary Ann, with her Christmas crown. 

Sharon was jaunty in her red outfit.

Sharon gave me this pretty Christmas necklace for my birthday.

Lennie with a kind of Norwegian wrap from her native North Dakota.

Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of Katherine, who had to leave early for another commitment. Anyway, we had a fine time and the party didn't break up until 12:30.

Home and I cleared up a few things, then we went to Wal-Mart and after that, Von's. Took a nap later and also went through some boxes. It seems I'm going to move into new digs next Friday, the twelfth, not the seventeenth, as I had thought. Okay, I can do that, since I'll have both places until the end of the month.  

Slept well and didn't get up until 5:30. Not sure what's on the agenda for today, but know we'll be busy. 

THURSDAY

Things are buzzing, but reasonably manageable.  Got up at 5:30, which was okay and ate the other half of my hamburger from the Hill Street Hotel for breakfast, then took a shower and washed  my hair. Futzed around doing this and that, then wentt to my 1:00 P.T. appointment--my last of this series. I was pleased and proud when Brian--such a neat guy--put me though a series of drills, then celebrated the fact that I had bested my initial performance. I'm still anything but well-balanced--at least in my body, not sure about my mind (ha!)--but will continue to do the exercises. 

Home, I added a little to lunch, then started on my jewelry chest. This is really a kind of bureau, about four feet high and with  multiple drawers designed for jewelry. It was quite a job to decide what I wanted to keep and what to donate, but I did it. I was so pleased to find the bracelet that my co-actor in Steel Magnolias had given each in the cast some fifteen years ago. A scene had invitees to wedding describing what they'll wear. My character describes her dress as beige and pink with white trim and I got a bracelet in just those colors. I've always cherished it and, when appropriate, have worn it it several show, including Backstage Bedlam. However, when it was over, I couldn't find it and thought I had left it, but no, I found it in the case I had taken with me. Took a short nap after and finished the jewelry pack up. 

Vivian had brought me a tee shirt from U. of Hawaii, from which she'll graduate in May--and El and I are going--yay! (At first I thought it meant "gay pride," which would have been okay, too.) She should get a kick out of this:   

                                                            

Today, we have our T.O.P.S Christmas breakfast at Maryann's house, which isn't far The Orchard. It's a pot luck and usually, I bring a dish I make from scratch, but this time, I shamelessly volunteered to bring orange juice, which Ellen picked up for me. Hey, I can barely cover what I have to do, let alone adding a concoction I make myself.  

WEDNESDAY

Julie and  Katherine picked me up at 10:45 to go to the BCNN Christmas luncheon. Lots there and I had a good time chatting with old friends, new acquaintances, and--well, new friends and old acquaintances. Anyway, we talked, laughed, commiserated with each other, and generally had a good time. Talked with Regina, who looked pretty good, although she's had some major health issues lately. Also chatted with  Barbara, outgoing prez, and Dusty, former prez, whom I've always liked. Both of them were in my acting group and several asked if I was going to have one in the new year. At this point, I can't even think of taking on anything else and if I ever change my mind, it's not going to be gratis.

The lunch was buffet and hardly gourmet, but pretty good, plus I had an orange blossom and, with lunch, an IPA. We drove home after, and I had intended to nap for a bit, as I had slept poorly. However, I didn't have time, as Mike came, as planned, about 2:00 and after packing up my loads of books, we drove over to The Orchard and Mike, having borrowed Ellen's hand truck, went back and forth taking them to my place. When we arrived, we found this on my door, noting my birthday in December: 

We looked around a bit, inside an out, then chatted with several residents. I saw Anita, the "resident ambassador" with whom El and I had had lunch during my first visit. I was amazed at her appearance: tastefully assembled outfit, perfect makeup, and diamond jewelry. In that respect, I was reminded of Diane, who would never step outside the door without looking like a model, although incredibly, Anita is ten years older than she. 

After our visit, we stopped at CVS for something or other, then went to the Hill Street Cafe for a light dinner. Mike drove me home, stopped in for a bit, then we said goodnight. 

Today, I have P.T. again, damnit, but it's my last one in Oxnard, at least. 

TUESDAY: P.T. AND BOOKS

A relatively slow day. The SCAN Transportation (Uber) picked me up at 10:45, early for my 11:30 physical therapy appointment, but that was okay.  I had been so busy on the Internet, that I had to rush to get out front, so didn't have time for breakfast. (Feeling like a ragamuffin, I snatched up a piece of bread on my way out and ate it on my way.) Uber came in a few minutes and we took off for Oxnard.

P.T. went okay and after, then I called Uber to pick me up. The driver a terrific guy named Troy. We fell into a conversation and I told him I was moving to The Orchard. He said that his mother, who's in her eighties, was considering an independent living place, too, so I gave him my card and said his mother could call me if she wanted to.

Home, I made a tuna sandwich for lunch and ate it while watching A Chorus Line. I hadn't  seen it for years and damn, that is one great movie. I sometimes think that dance is the most artful of the arts and this was dynamite, Incredibly, it was made fifty years ago, but if I didn't know that, I would ever have guessed. Now that I'm in the mood, I may look up All That Jazz. 

Took a short nap, then turned my attention to my ceiling-high bookcase and separated them into "keep" and "give to Greg to sell at Bart's books." Hmm, I could donate them to The Orchard, too, but will go with Bart's: 

                                   

And now the bookcase is bare, aside from the artifacts: 

And oh, gawd, I have an enormous number of "artifacts"; sooner or later, I'm going to have to keep, donate, or toss--AAGH!

MONDAY AND SOARING SPIRITS

Busy day, but a good one; slept well and didn't get up until 6:30. Called SCAN Transportation to take me to my 11:30 P.T. appointment in Oxnard today. Julie called to see if she could pick me up for the BCNN Christmas luncheon tomorrow. and I accepted. Vickie texted to say she and Suzanne would like to treat me to a pizza farewell lunch; I'll let her know. I may or may not go to the T.O.P.S. Christmas breakfast on Friday--depends on when it is. Hey, my calendar is filling up again. 

Spent some time pulling together more of the memorabilia together. Mike and Ellen got here at 12:30, bringing Ellen's hand truck, which was an enormous help. Mike got it all in the van he had rented and off we went. Before we started, I ran into my neighbor, Katherine, who said she was thinking of eventually moving to The Orchard. Hey, that would be nice--and financially advantageous--see below. 

Because yesterday was the official day of my move (I'm overlapping both domiciles to the end of December.), we stopped at the desk to get my key. We ran into Director Tiffany and Sales Manager Carissa and chatted happily. I mentioned that Kathrine might be interested and was told that if I was the referral person, I could earn a few thou. Sounds good to me.   

I was pleased to see my apartment again. The front room seemed a lot more spacious than I had remembered and I could envision placement of a lot of the furniture. We brought with us some paper goods and hand soap for the bathroom and will add a few more things as we come. I met several other residents and we introduced ourselves, including some men. They all seemed congenial, although I'm not naive enough to think I'll find soulmates, but who knows? We stopped at Wal-Mart after for a few staples, then the kids (😉) dropped me at home. 

Vera  picked me up at 5:15 for the Soaring Spirits dinner at Stone Fire Grille, the last with our dear leader, Vera. (Ugh, that sounds like  Kim Jong il!) There were just seven of us there, but we had a great time:

Around the table: the hunchback, Susan, Donna, Glenda, Lynell, Renee, Gayle, and Katherine (Vera took the pic)

Glenda, Renee, and Vera

Susan, Donna, and Vera. We were all thrilled to see Donna, who had been a member, met widower Mark at an SS gathering, and they've been married for several years. Of course, she's no longer a member--not allowed--but we skipped the rule and welcomed her happily.

Gayle looking pensive; she has a lot of medical and other issues.

With Susan, Renee, and Glenda

Christmas ornaments were exchanged and Vera gave each of us this ornament, which I will cherish:

Vera with Susan, her stand-in leader

We stayed later than usual, until we closed the place at 8:00 am. Vera took me home and we said goodbye. I leave for The Orchard on December 17 and she leaves for Oregon on January 1. I hope to maybe take her to lunch before she goes. Not to get all philosophical, it seems the end of a life chapter for both of us. Anyway, I'm mostly glad for this book I'm reading and look forward to turning the page.