FRIDAY

Dismal news regarding my weight struggle: At home, I was up1.2 to 129.08 and the same up at T.O.P.S., putting me at the dreaded 140. Okay, I'm just going to have to buckle down and fly right. There were six of us at the meeting, including Maria, who hasn't been there for a time. 

Home at 10:15 or so. I had forgotten about balance class, so missed it and didn't go down until lunchtime. It was fish taco with sides and actually pretty good. I sat with Kathie, LaVerne, and Bea; didn't see Keith. After, I put in a load of wash, then did this and that on the laptop. 

Went down to happy hour at 3:00 and had a Margarita. We didn't have outside entertainers, but instead, a sing-along, which included, inevitably, pro-war propaaganda material, such as Over There and Comin' In On A Wing And Ae Prayer, and I'll Be Seeing You. As a pacifist, I sat silently until pianist Carol switched over to Patti Page and The Platters, then joined in with enthusiasm. Went from there to dinner with Barbara, Trudie--another non-stop talker--Carl, and Carol and Stan; I skipped the Greek gyro in favor of their good hot dogs. 

Picked up my mail and finally received the writings from my mother from Carolyn. Mom had written memoirs for each of her six children and it touched me greatly to read it. Carolyn also sent me a copy of my mother's memoir to and about Betty. I just couldn't bear to read that right away, but will today. I called Carolyn to thank her and will call again today to discuss. What's incredible is that she mailed both of them from Santa Barbara on June 2 and I got both yesterday, a month later. Jeez, I could have walked the thirty miles there and back and picked them up.

Stella called and we talked for twenty minutes or so. Her son, Joshua, who lives in Spain, will be visiting at the end of July and I hope to see him when he's here. 

Showered and washed my hair--wish I could style it the way Caitlin does--then settled down to watch a documentary on the murder of Rob Reiner and his wife by their son. Pretty horrible.

Ellen's going to pick me up today, take me to Ojai, and I'll stay overnight--that should be fun. 

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I forgot to add this picture from the cookout on Thursday. The duo sang the usual collection of "patriotic" songs:                                                            

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THURSDAY AND A COOKOUT

I was a little late for Bone Builders, but got there and it was a good session. It happened to be our instructor, Marilyn's birthday and I took a picture with her (on my right) and Elaine, one of the residents: 

Marilyn had made cupcakes and brought them, plus apple juice for her "students." I don't eat sweets, so I took mine home and brought it to dinner to give to whomever.

Attended the lunch barbeque and, as ever, it was very good. I chose a cheeseburger this time, served with homemade potato salad and fruit. I also accepted a Blue Moon ale with it. There was a duo singing the usual patriotic songs and here are some of the staff in their Americano finery:

Director of the whole shebang, Tiffany; it's hard to believe she has college-aged children.

Maintenance guy Joe, along with resident Barry, a non-stop talker.

Our activities director, Mindy, acting silly--she's a lot of fun. 

After lunch, I took a nap, then hauled out read a number my original scripts. I'm hoping the other members of our new acting group, Second Act Players, will want  to stage some. 

Dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, and Denise--I gave my cup cake to the latter, who has no weight problem. Back home after, I continued reading scripts and enjoyed it. 

Mary Ann, who usually takes me to T.O.P.S. on Fridays, is in Detroit, so I texted Cheryl to see if she'd pick me up. She will, but I'm not looking forward to getting weighed. I know I've gained, as I've been eating much too much and exercising much too litte. I must reform, but seem to be lacking in determination--or something. 

WEDNESDAY

Maintenance guy Joe came at 9:00 and quickly fixed my cabinet door. He noticed the ancestor pictures on my walls, including my great-grandfather in his Civil War uniform, and we had a nice talk. I then went down to balance class and managed, in chatting with Bee, to step backward and almost fall. I recovered myself, but alarmed the other residents in the room. 

I got a notice from Groendyke, my house insurance company, that it's up for renewal; I'll be sent a new contract, which I need to electronically sign, then return. Darn, I now find I'm out of printer paper. Ellen called and I asked her to bring me some. We also finalized our plans for the weekend: She'll pick me up after lunch on Saturday and I'll stay over at her place, then she'll bring me home on Sunday. It'll be before lunch, as she has plans with a friend for later.

Had lunch with Kathie and LaVerne, then prepared for dime Bingo, which started at 1:30.  Incredibly, I won four times--now my dime trove is replentshed and I'm set for the next rounds.

Got home and finally opened the burner I had sent for months ago. I had already shedded a cabbage and onion, now I added oil, butter, lemon juice, and garlic powder and cooked it up in the skillet Ellen lent me. I'm not sure everybody would like it, but I think it's yummy and will enjoy it for serveral days. 

Sat down for dinner with LaVerne, then I invited new resident Reggie to join us, as he was at the next table alone. Shortly, Keith sat down and we got to know the newcomer. Reggie is only 65 and his speech is somewhat difficult to understand. From what he told us, he had been badly hurt in several accidents which affected his speech and some movements. He seems a nice fellow, though, and I was glad to have met him. 

Outdoor barbeque is on the agenda for lunch today, and that should be good. 

TUESDAY

Before lunch, I took two loads to the laundry room, put them in the wash, then did a few chores on the laptop. Unfortunately, I had forgotten about Bone Builders at 10:15, and missed it. To compensate in a sense, I spents twenty minutes on the stationary bike.

Had lunch with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne.  I brought Keith's book, Ghost Orchid* as Kathie wants to read it. I already have Keith's other Kellerman book, Heartbreak Hotel, which I started reading and after the first few pages, realized I had read before. That's okay, though, as I don't remember much about it and I'm enjoying it. 

Went to dime Bingo at 1:30--a marathon session of two hours--and won two, I'm happy to report. Of course, I won only a dollar ten each time, but a win is a win, right?

Dinner with Kathie, Keith, Laverne, and Denise and we had some good conversation. After, when I checked my email, I found a video of the show of last Sunday. It's more than an hour long and I cringe when I see myself--I look decrepit--but I guess I did okay. I sent it to my children, telling them they can see Mum at 5:13 (far left); 14:39 ("the Green Room"); 18:51 ("Heart's Desire"); 44:56 (I say "You are the best!"); and somewhere toward the end when the cast applauds the audience. I sent it to myself on Messanger and am putting it here, in case I ever want to see it again:

 https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/#inbox/WhctKLcFCqBTGPkFgPXsKDwNzkVwVGjtdhmwLjZmGJJpQcmxvpJhrzhNJcnxqBLdfftltQv

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aH2mQKVKZPE&authuser=1

No plans for today except that Joe Maintenance is coming to fix my cabinet door. I asked him to come after 9:00, as I don't like to rush in the morning.

* By Jonathan Kellerman, the only fiction writer whose books I read; I mostly stick to non-fiction. 

MONDAY

Slept okay, but felt a little draggy when I got up at 6:00. However, I revived, spent time on financial matters, and stripped my bed. Took the sheets to the laundry room, put them in, then went to balance class at 10:00. Retrived the wash, went down to lunch, and sat with LaVerne, then Keith sat with us, bringing a  friend named David; I think they met in the Navy. Anyway, David is a big talker and I enjoyed his patter. He' owns a house in Fillmore and is considering The Orchard; we'll see what happens there. 

Back up stairs, I didn't do anything productive aside from watering the tomatoes. Soon, it was time for dinner. I sat with Kathie, LaVerne, and Bee; Keith sat elsewhere. Dinner, egg salad on a croissant, was so-so, but the carrot/raisin salad was good.

Again, I slept well and got up with the alarm. I'm toying with the idea of busing to the mall--may or may not.

SUNDAY AND SHOWTIME

The Access Van got me to Ellen's in Ojai about noon and she gave me a chicken sandwich for lunch. We chatted a bit and she "heard me" on the script, then drove me to the Veritas for the 1:00 cast call. Most of our group were there and, luckily, Steve, Nelso, Bob, and I were able to rehearse several times before the show started at 2:00. I got a chance to snap only one picture and this isn't very representative, but it illustrates the somewhat primative conditions:

In the front row right is Jesse Somebody, the high school student who received the scholarship given in Carol's name and next to him his acting teacher. As for the rest of the audience, it was wonderfully responsive and appreciative. Several came up to me after with praise and appreciation for my verse and our short piece, which turned out to be wonderfully well done--I was a little worried about that. To top it off, champagne was served to the audience and I had a glass after the show. The whole day was terrific--what a relief.

Ellen picked me up after and we stopped into a gift shop before meeting Greg at Sea Fresh. They have great seafood, but I had a hankering for a cheeseburger and that's what I got. We had a good time, as ever, then we said goodbye to Greg and Ellen drove me home. She invited me to stay over at her place on Saturday, then we'll go somewhere for the fourth of July. Sounds good.

What a good day, thanks to the success of the show, perfect weather, and the sleepover next week, to which I'm looking forward.  

SATURDAY

Washed, dressed, and went downstairs for lunch with Kathie and Keith. I left halfway through, as the Access Van picked me up at 12:30. Hobie, the driver, had two more stops to make, so I got to the Veritas by 2:00.

Reheasal went okay, although I still have a little problem with memorization and knowing when to say what to whom, but hey, I'll get it by showtime--if not, I'll improvise. We rehearsed until about 4:00, then Ellen picked me up and drove me home, getting in when it was almost dinnertime. I rushed upstairs and changed, then got to the dining room in plenty of time.  Didn't see Katie or Keith, so sat with Barbara, Trudie, Carl, Carol, and Stan and enjoyed it.

The Access Van will pick me up in a few hours, then take me to Ellen's for lunch, then she'll get me to the Veritas by the one o'clock call. Tentative plans are for El, Greg, and I to go to dinner after.

FRIDAY

 I texted Mary Ann and called Sharon to tell them I wasn't going to T.O.P.S.  I had my two appointments at 2:00 and 3:00 and thought I'd bus to the mall to buy a skillet for my cabbage/onion dish. However, I just didn't feel like it after such a poor sleep, so I didn't.

Had lunch with Kathie, Keith, and Bee, then prepared for my appointments in the salon upstairs. Elika took me at 2:00 and I chose the same lavender polish as last time--I just like it. Caitlin then did my hair--wash, a cut, and blow dry and it really looks good. I had a great time with both of them. Didn't get home until after 4:00.   

Dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, Dyan, Denise, and Bee, so we added chairs to the ends of the table for four and it worked out fine. We had a discussion about Jehovah Witnesses; it seems that one of the residents--Paula--is one and left the dining room when we sang "Happy Birthday" to Keith. Hmm...I jut looked it up and discovered that they believe birthday and other holiday celebrations are of pagan origin, so evil.  

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An historic note:

This is a picture of Abraham Lincoln's funeral cortege in Philadelphia on April 24, 1865 and the crowds that gathered to see it. I knew a woman who had been there. She lived in Philadelphia, taught piano lessions, and spent summers in Ventnor. She went to our church, St. James, and my mother knew her. She had been stricken with polio as a child and hadn't walked since. At he age of three, seated on her father's shoulders, she was taken to see the cortege. When she was in Ventnor, Miss (can't recall her name) needed someone to push her wheelchair and take her for walks on the boardwalk. At the age of ten, I was hired to do so and was paid a quarter an hour.  

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THURSDAY

 Went to bone builders from 10:30 to 11:30, then caught the last ten minutes of "Town Hall and Food for Thought." This is a periodic gathering with Director Tiffany and Chef Michael where residents ask questions, express concerns, and so on; I guess it's pretty standard in this kind of facility. Anyway, I praised the hot dogs (from Nathan's, who sell the best) and asked about the sugar content of the "no sugar" ice cream. I found out it has no added sugar, but some ingredients may have sugar. Well, that's not "no sugar," is it? I avoid sugar, but once in a while, I indulge.

Went from there to lunch, sitting with Kathie and LaVerne. The latter's granddaughter and family, from Dallas, came to visit yesterday evening--lucky her. Back in my apartment, I thinly sliced the cabbage and onion I had bought; not sure how I'll cook it, but I'll give it a shot.  

I went downstairs thinking I'd go to Trivia, but I was early. Saw Trudie, who "leads" Trivia and sat down to chat with her for  half-hour or so. Trudie is a big talker--this place is filled with them--but I enjoyed her stories. Decided not to stay for Trivia after all, and went back to my place.

Called Elika to make a date to do my nails today at 2:00. What I want to do is take the bus to the mall before that and pick up a few things. 

I was annoyed to get an email from Suzy to the effect that dress reheasal tomorrow has been changed from 5:00 to 2:00 o'clock, as she has a conflict in schedules. Okay, I called the Access Van back and switched my pickup time and place. 

Had dinner with Kathie, Keith, and the newcomer, Denise. She looks a lot younger than the seventy-six she is and is quite attractive. She and her husband are separated and he lives "up in the mountains." She has two daughters and a dog, as well as, unfortunately, some vision and other problems. 

Damn, I woke up at 2:30 and foolishly got up and played my match game before going back. I planed to take the bus to the mall to get a skillet before my manicure at 2:00 and haircut at 3:00. I may have to take a nap instead--I'll see how I feel after coffee. 

WEDNESDAY

Went to balance class from 10:00 to 10:30, then went upstairs to wait for Ellen to come. She did, as promised, at 11:30 and we went off to Jasmine Thai for lunch. Yum, was my chicken and salad and rice platter good--and plenty, so I took half home. 

After, we went to Wal-Mart and, wonder of wonders, I got everything on my shopping list--to the tune of seventy-five bucks, and it was well worth it. El came back with me after and helped with a few household needs, then "heard me" on the script for Sunday. She left at 4:30, at which time it was the dinner hour.

Sat with Kathie, LaVerne, and Keith. I skipped the entree--ham and sides--in favor of one of their big and delicious hot dogs and even had a dish of huckleberry ice cream. I introduced myself to "the new girl"--Denise, who moved in a few days ago--who lives down the hall from me on two. 

After dinner, I spent an hour or so on necessary chores--putting my newly bought items away, preparing for tomorrow's doings, taking trash to the trash place, and otherwise occupying myself.

TUESDAY

 Went to bone builders class at 10:30, which lasted an hour. After, I went back to my apartment and exchanged my walker for my cart. Vickie and Suzanne pickeed me up at noon and off we went to Casa Soria.(I undertand that means "House of Seriousness" or something similar.) I was amazed to see on the lunch menu that a courtesy Margarita was offered; of course, I got that with my tamale.

We had a great time talking and catching up. However, I was dismayed to learn from Suzanne that SO-FI management had her thirty-year old, thirty-feet- high ficus cut down. Worse, they had also cut down the ficus that Ellen gave me when I moved to SO-FI and had had planted in my patio then, eleven or so years ago. They didn't even alert Suzanne and the girl who is in my old apartment before they had it done.Aside from that, it was fun and so good to be back with Suzanne and Vickie. We promised to keep more in touch, although Suzanne will be at a family gathering for the next two weeks. I think I'll see  if Vickie and I can go see Jim then.

I got home in time to join the dime Bingo group and won the first game I played. That lasted until 3:30 and I stayed after for Trivia with Trudy, Keith, and Rick.  It was then time for dinner and I sat, as usual,  with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne.   

Sent e-cards to son, Patrick, in Japan, who will be 67 on Sunday, June 28 and to great-grandson, Joel, Jr., who will be 24 on the same day. For Joel, I added a gift card; maybe I'll send a See's candy gift card to P. and family. 

Ellen's coming today and we'll go shopping, then to lunch. 

MONDAY

 About 8:00,am, I stripped the bedclothes and put them in the wash; I had time before balance class to dry them and re-make the bed. Went to Balance With Jackie, of half-hour duration and when I got back, put in a load of clothes to wash. Before I went to lunch, I put them in the dryer.  

Had lunch with Kathie and LaVerne--Keith sat elsewhere--then retrieved the dry clothes, folded and hung them and now I'm set for five or six days, anyway.

I spent a lot of time on my laptop games, my fascination for which I can't seem to shake. However, I also rode the stationary bike for twenty minutes at a reasonably fast pace, so that was good. 

Had dinner with LaVerne and Keith; Kathie didn't show, but Ray joined us. He's kind of a funny duck, but I like him and we enjoyed him. 

Today, Suzanne and I are taking Vickie to lunch for her birthday and I'm looking forward to that. 

SUNDAY AND MY ANNIVERSARY

 Put a load of whites in the wash before lunch, then retreived them after. We had a cookout and it was fun to eat outside. Unlike last time, we didn't serve ourselves, the regular servers did. I had chicken, pasta salad, and watermelon and it was good. The hamburgers and Polish hot dogs looked good, too. I sat with a group at a longish table: LaVonne, Cheryl, Mary, LaVerne, Lois, Kathie, and a new person I haven't met.

After, I went up to assemble my meds--a boring every-Sunday chore. I then just more or less lazed around and played my Jewel Match 2 game on the laptop. Before dinner, I went to the exercise room and rode the stationary bike for twenty minutes.

Had dinner with Kathie, Keith, and the new guy, Ray, who's originally from Pittsburgh. It was sausage with pasta, plus veggies, and was pretty good. 

Below is a better picture of Pat on June 21, 1958,  although he doesn't look too thrilled to be a new husband:

And here are my beautiful bridesmaids; from left, Joan Welsh; my twin, Betty, and my older sister, Gene:

In front of Mom's house in Ventnor, on the way to St. James on June 21, 1958.

SATURDAY

 Lunch was BBQed ribs and, although I rarely eat red meat--or maybe because of that--I greatly enjoyed it; sat with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne. Futzed around with this and that after, then went down to dime Bingo. This was a marathon session--from 1:30 to 3:30--and I won twice. Stayed after that for Trivia, then it was time for dinner.

Ate with Keith and LaVerne, after which son Mike Messaged me and I talked to him, Vivian, and Violet for forty-five or so. 

Nothing much else went on, but that was okay. Today we're having a BBQ cookout which should be good--they'll serve beer with the chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs and sides.

Slept well, I'm glad to record and woke up this morning on my sixty-eighth wedding anniversary:

June 21, 1958 💘

FRIDAY AND MORE COLUMBIA

Unfortunately, I slept badly and felt tired when I got up. However, I perservered and Mary Ann picked me up 8:00 for T.O.P.S. Happily, we left at 9:30, so I got back in time for the balance class. As for my weight, at home, it was the same as three weeks ago when I last weighed in: 138.6. At T.O.P.S., I actually lost a miniscule .02, as it was 139.6. Of course, that's still more than nine pounds over my ideal range, but not as bad as I had feared.

I had time to change, then go to balance class at 10:00. Had lunch after with LaVerne and Keith, then I toyed with the idea of rearranging some things in my apartment.  I didn't, though; just tidied up a bit. Ellen called and we made a date for Tuesday--lunch and errands. 

At 3:00, I went down to happy hour and greatly enjoyed the Columbian dancers. In fact, I told Mindy it was The Orchard's best show ever since I've lived there:

At one point, members of the audiance were asked to form a circle and follow the steps of a dance. I joined and it was great fun. I also--which I probably shouldn't have--had a Columbian coffee with rum--yum!

After, went to the dining room and had dinner with Kathie, Keith, Bee, and Carol. The latter plays the piano and also knits. She's nice enough, although conventional in her ideas, but that's okay. 

Dime Bingo today--yay!

THURSDAY AND COLUMBIA

Before going to bone builders class, I sliced up a lemon to take for my iced tea at lunch. I must have cut myself without realizing it because when I got to the clubhouse, my finger was bleeding. I guess the blood thinners I take makes me bleed a lot; luckily, one of the other participants had bandaids and bandaged me up.

Lunch after that with Kathie and LaVerne. It was Columbia day and a beef dish was served, along with Columbian beer and cocktails. It was good, but for some reason, I was a little out of sorts. Back in my apartment, I napped for a short time, then did a few household chores.

I texted Mary Ann and she'll pick me up for T.O.P.S. this morning. I'm not looking forward to it, as I just haven't been following my better habits. Besides, I missed T.O.P.S. for the last three  weeks and I dread what the scale will show. 

Dinner with Keith and LaVerne--not sure where Kathie was. 

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Speaking of the Columbia theme, here are chef Michael, secretary Frances, and assitant Maria:

More of the Columbia motifs:

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WEDNESDAY

Not much going on yesteday. I went to balance class at 10:00, then went home to clean up a few things. Lunch with Kathie, Mary G. and LaVerne; when Kathie left to get her hair done, Keith joined us. 

After, I did this and that around the apartment, then went to dime Bingo at 1:30. We played for two hours and I won twice, replenishing my dime supply. 

I got a text and this pic from Jeanne Painter: 

It's her ninetieth birthday party with family; Jeanne's in the middle of the second row. 

LaVerne didn't show up for dinner--she often eats in her apartment--and Keith sat elsewhere, so Kathie and I sat together, just the of us. She had had her hair cut, shaped, and lightened and boy, does it look good. It's kind of layered in color, but subtly, so it looks very natural. Lots of residents stopped by our table to compliment her.

Back upstairs at 6:30 and I played some Jewel Match Two before showering and sitting down to watch T.V. I've been sleeping well, so staying up later--last night I didn't turn in until 10:00!--seems to have done the trick.

TUESDAY

I went to Bone Builders at 10:30 and endured the exercises; by the time it was finished, it was time for lunch. Sat with Trish, Ralph, and Jerry and chatted with the first two, but Jerry spent the whole tiime reading things on his phone. 

Stopped to show Mindy the program for our show, but I tole her not to set up a bus trip, as there are only 64 seats available and I don't think there'd be room. Ellen called to say Dr. Chui's office (dermatology) had called and the biopsy came back postitive. Luckily, they don't want to do surgery, but will have a lotion filled at CVS which I should use every day. I have a follow-up appointment in September. 

At 1:30, I went up to the beauty salon and Elika did first, my pedicure, then my manicure. They both look good, but it took a long time and I didn't get home until 3:00, which meant I missed dime Bingo. Oh, well, they have another today.

Had dinner with LaVerne and Keith. LaVerne left before dessert, but Keith and I had the no-sugar ice cream. I then questioned Keith about his background: Pentacostal upbringing, two marriages, two divorces, and so on. I found it interesting, even more so than the stories of other residents.

MONDAY

 I had been notified that the Access Van would pick me up for reheasal at 11:45, but at 11:07, I got a text that it was on its way. No, that would make it much too early, so I called, but was on hold for almost a half hour, so hung up and went downstairs. It got here about 11:30 and to say I was annoyed is putting it mildly.

When we got to Ojai, we had a big problem trying to find the Veritas Theatre. Oddly enough, there are no signs and the entrance isn't evident--I don't know why. However, Bob was there and we got in and the rest of the cast showed up shortly.It's a very small venue; Suzy said they managed to get 64 seats in there, but that's very few. I'm not going to suggest that Mindy schedule a bus trip there for Orchard resident, as that would probably be too many. 

Anyway, rehearsal went okay. Oddly, there are more men in the cast than women, seven or so (three of them named Steve!) to five women. I recited my verse with no problem and my smallpart in "the green scene" was perfectly okay. It took only two hours or so, then Suzy drove me to Ellens's, who gave me lunch, then drove me home.  

I called Elika and will get a pedicure today at 1:30. She said she'll give me a "complementary" manicure, too; I'm not sure why and will try to pay her for it. Dinner with Kathie, Bee, and LaVerne.

SUNDAY

Fulfilled my weekly obligations before lunch, namely: Took my every-Sunday med; washed, dried, folded, and put away a load of clothes; set up my weekly multitude of pills, capsules and so on, for both morning and night. I interspersed this with playing my favorite "jewel match" game. Talked to Ellen and she'll pick me up after rehearsal this afternoon. That's a load off my mind.

Lunched with Trudy, Carl, Carol, and Barbara; Stan came later. Followed that with more laptop games--I can't help myself!--then went downstairs to game with others at Bingo. It hadn't originally been dime Bingo, but we decided together it would be and, hey--I won a game and replenished my dimes!

After that, I almost immediately went up to the card room to play Yahtzee. Voluneer Cindy wasn't there, so resident Elaine brought the materials and she, Keith, Beverly, and I played. I didn't win, but I did get Yahtzee twice.

Dinner with LaVerne and Keith--Kathie sat elsewhere. Back at my place, I cut up several lemons, preparing for iced tea; also put some in the freezer, along with a whole, incut one. Yes, you can freeze citrus fruit--I do it often and they come out fine. 

SATURDAY

As mentioned yesterday, I slept late--'til 8:30--then did this and that before I left at 10:00 to get the city bus to the mall. Went to Target, but got nothing; I had my walker and just didn't feel like getting things to carry on it. I had packed my lunch--a tuna sandwich and a non-alcohlic IPA--and ate it in the middle. Went across the street to the shop I like there and bought two tops.

Bused home and went immediately into dime bingo. Ha--I hadn't had time to go up and get my dimes, so I put in a few dollars and got them. I didn't win a single game and damn--Dyan won four of them!  It was fun, though.

After, I went back up to start this entry and was horrified to find the laptop displaying only the "ASUS In Search of Excellence" logo and it wouddn't do anything else. Called my darling Ellen and she walked me through the fix. She also will meet me after reheasal on Monday and we'll go to dinner, then she'll take me home. I'll have to let Suzy know. 

Had dinner with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne. After, on my way home, I introduced myself to a new resident couple, Sharon and Ray. 

Son Mike Messaged me about 8:00 and we chatted. It was Sunday morning for him in Singapore and he had just gotten in from a sixty-mile bike trip. We had a good talk. 

FRIDAY

 Having signed up for the wine-tasting in Ojai, I went downstairs at 9:45, prepared for a fun trip. Hmm...I didn't see anyone else in the lobby. Driver Rick came up and so so Assistant Tia. We looked in athe book and discovered that I was the only one who had signed up for the trip. Okay, I'd skip it, especially as the balance class with Jackie was just starting and I attended that, instead. Better for me, anyway. 

Lunched with Carl, Trudie, and the others. Went from there to sit outside for a half hour or so chatting with Katherine and darling little doggy, Nanook. Then it was the Dynamic Duo and their terrific music; I requested The Platters and they did a great job with "Only You." The theme was Columbia and I had a Columbia rum and something drink, too. Got a kick out of resident Steve's shirt:  

Unfortunately, I called the Access Van to get to rehearsal on Monday and had a problem. Reheasal is scheduled for 2:00 in Ojai and the only time they could pick me up, I was told, was 11:40 TO 12:15. That means I'll be an hour or more early, but I scheduled it, anyway. However, they had nothing available until 7:25 to pick me up and I sure as hell didn't want to hang around that long. Called Suzy and we discussed. I'll get the Van to get there, then somebody will drive me home.

Slept well, but I'm feeling a little draggy now, at 8:30. I had thought I'd call Noreen to see if she wants to meet for lunch, but maybe I don't want to commit. I might just take the bus to the mall--we'll see.

THURSDAY

Went to Bone Builders at 10:30 and from there, to lunch. This was a special barbeque lunch with tables and chairs outside, although regular lunch was also served. I sat outside with Dyan, Judy, Keith, and LaVerne and had a delicious Italian sausage on a roll with sides and a slice of watermelon for dessert. Beer and other drinks were also served and I had a satsifying Blue Moon.

I called SCAN Transportation to have an Uber pick me up for my 2:00 dermatology appointment. It was very early, but I was ready and when I got to Dr. Chiu's office, I was taken right away. Dr. C. took a biopsy of the leison on my cheek; I'll be called with the results, which I'm afraid might inlcude the need for surgery. Called to be picked up, the Uber came, and I actually got home a few minutes before 2:00! Hey, I can live with that.

Did a few items on the laptop, then went down for Trivia at 3:45. Game was the usual mix of "any five-year-old would know the answer" to "impossibly far-fetched questions that only a soccer/heavy medal/WW 2 veteran would know." However, Trudie, Keith, and I enjoyed it.

After, I sat with Trudie, Carl, Carol, Stan, and Barbara for dinner. It was French dip and really yummy. I took half up to my apartment to have during T.V. time.

I signed up for the outing to Ojai today for wine-tasting at one of the wineries there and that should be fun.  

WEDNESDAY

 I called Primary Medical at 9:00 and cancelled my appointment, adding apologies to P.A. Natalie. Got two "violation notices" about my house in Sunrise Bay, one to say there were weeds in the soil around a tree, the other to say the house needs to be power washed. I called my contact in Jersey and she'll take care of resolving the problems.

Lunch with Kathie and Keith, then new resident, Judy, joined us. Judy is a world class, A number one talker, who simply never stopped gabbing, all about herself, of course--she's an artist, so she says--and I'm hopeful she'll inflict the torture on others after yesterday; Heaven forfend she should join us for dinner. She's the one who told me at the Sabbat that she asked Jesus if she could have wine and he okayed it. 

Went down to dime Bingo at 1:30 and incredibly, I won four games. Haven't counted up my winnings yet, but will do so. I'll surely have enough to play several more times. 

Had dinner with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne. It was shrimp tacos with mango; beans on the side and I enjoyed it so much I asked for a second one. 

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Here are some pictures of my father from the twenties when he attended Villanova College. I did find other pictures, but so far, these are the only ones I hung up:

Here he is, standing second from left with the track team.

Here he is with the debating team; he's standing on the left.

And here's his graduation page, class of 1922.

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TUESDAY

 Not one of my better days. I had signed up to go to the Senior Expo outing at 10:00, but before that, I started getting a pain in my right leg near the ankle. The leg isn't swollen hot, cold, or discolored, but it has a kind of muted stabbing pain every few seconds. It isn't terribly painful, but it's there and it makes me nervous. I ccancelled my trip to the Senior Expo and called Primary Medical, hoping to talk to the P.A., Natalie. Of course, she was seeing patients and I was called back later, asking that I come in today at 11:20.  I called SCAN Transportation to take me, but damnit, I was told I had to call within a 24-hour period and it was 2:00. I then called the Access Van and was told they had nothing available at the time I need. Called Ellen and that dear girl witll drove over and take me.

Later: Well, the ache in my leg stopped and I decided I didn't need to see the P.A. Told El and I'll call Primary Medical as soon as they open.

Aside from that, I went to dime Bingo and won twice. Received from Amazon the Oxy-Clean I had ordered and took a load of whites to the laundry room. 

Dined with Keith and LaVerne, then retreived my laundry. After, I showered and washed my hair. Now it's 8 am and I'll call Primary Medical when they open. 

MONDAY

Slept okay and got up at 5:30. I did a few household chores and took trash to the laundry room where it's picked up. At 10:00, I went down to balance class only to find that Jackie wasn't there. I had forgotten she had said she couldn't come today and so did seven other people, including Kathie and Keith. However, resident Elaine knew the routines and led us through them. 

After that, I ordered a few things via Amazon, including a bleach alternative and--oh, hell, I don't care who knows it--adult underwear. I then more or less lazed around; for some reason, I felt a little tired and lay down for a bit here and there. About 3:00, I went to the exercise room and rode the bike cardio thing for fifteen minutes. 

Dinner, salmon burger and sides, was pretty good. I sat with Lisa and David, then Keith joined us. We had a good discussion about religion and our common liberation from it. I was interested ot hear that David, an attorney, went to parochial school, but it was Lutheran, not Catholic. 

My right leg started bothering me with a kind of muted sharp pain last evening and it still does. I'm not sure if I should call Primary Medical or not. Darn, I'm signed up to go to the Senior Expo today; should I cancel? I'll wait and see. 

 

SUNDAY

 Ellen picked me up a bit after 12:00 and we went directly to Hill Street Cafe for lunch. It was crowded with a birthday party gathering on the patio, so we ate inside. Good as usual, and I had macaroni and cheese, along with my Sunday IPA. After that, we went to Wal-Mart for paper products, groceries, and in my case, a nice bag of lemons.  

I called my brother, Larry, in Florida, to wish him happy birthday--he turned 94 on Saturday--and we had a good talk. His daughter has moved in with him, which works well for both of them. Larry has some physical concerns, such as balance, but he's mentally as okay as ever.

El came in with me after and fixed my printer--yay! She printed out as a test, my blogging buddy, Pat R.'s entry for yesterday, which is how I read it. BTW, that Rich she mentioned? She said he was in heaven with an IPA--hey, a guy after my own heart! Ellen also looked into the Word problem--I wondered if I'm paying for something I don't use--but nothing has been resolved so far.   

My darling daughter left about 5:00 with my thanks, and I went down to the dining room for dinner; sat with David and Lisa and enjoyed it. 

SATURDAY

Stripped the bed, washed the sheets, and re-made before 9:30. Had lunch with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne. The latter was kind enough to bring me a big lemon--her daughter's neighbor grows them. 

At 1:15, I went to the "store" and, with the funny money handed out here and there, bought some nuts and other snacks. After that, it was quarter Bingo time and finally, I actually won a game. I think my prize was about four bucks, if that, but it was fun. Had dinner with Trudy, Carl, Carol, Stan, and Barbara. 

Mike Facetimed me after dinner and we had a good talk. Violet has gotten a summr job at--of all places--McDonald's and this is a unique structure, nothing like the uniform McDonald's elsewhere:

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Here's the program for the June 28 show. It's subject to change if I do my "Heart's Desire" verse at my last show for Fractured Actors. As shown, I'm listed as one of the founding members:

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FRIDAY

 Having skipped T.O.P.S., I lazed around in the morning until it was time for the balance class at 10:00. Keith came, too, but I didn't see him for lunch. Instead, I had it with, as usual, Kathie and, no as usual, Beverlee (that's how she spells it)  and Greg. They are a couple who may or may not be married and Bevelee, I think, is cosiderably older than Greg. Anyway, it was different and reasonably enjoyable.

After, I went back to my place and took a short nap, then went down to enjoy Tatjana at 3:00. She's a singer and dancer who is featured here regularly and I always enjoy her performances:

Incredibly, Tatjana is 65 years old and can still shoot her leg straight up over her head. 

Had dinner with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne and it was pretty good--pizza and Caesar salad. I had put the AC on before I went down, as the late afternoon sun heats up the apartment. 

Ellen texted me asking if I'd like to get together on Saturday or Sunday to go shopping and out to lunch. Sure would and I chose Sunday; she called last night to confirm. 

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Note: My nephew, Wes Johnson, Esq.,who is my twin sister's son, recently won an important case:

Litigator Wesley Johnson stands in front of the address for his client Hangzhou Chuanyue Silk Import & Export Co. during a 2025 trip to China, courtesy photo.

Here's the story: https://www.law.com/2026/06/02/far-reaching-implications-hague-service-convention-bans-email-process-service-to-chinese-defendants-seventh/?

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THURSDAY

 I went to Bone Builders at 10:30, then lunched with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne. In the lobby, fome residents were selling Items. There were crocheted throws and baby gifts (Lisa); handmade greeting cards (Mary); and doggy-themed treats and other items. I bought two chrocheted hearts backed by magnets and two graduation cards for V. and V.

Signed up for the trip to an Ojai vineyard for wine-tasting on June 12. In the mult-purpose room, Mindy had decorated for the Columbia-theme day coming up. Here I am in the rain forest:

I did nothing productive for most of the day, but so what? I took a two-hour nap in anticipation of being out late at the gathering at Erica's.  

Dinner with Kathie, Keith, and Dyan. As usual, I left before dessert (which I never eat) and went back to my place to wait for Becky to call. She did, said she was on her way, then picked me up to go to Erica's.

We got there, as planned at 7:00 and had a good, congeniel visit with Erica and the other attendee, Mereedith, both of whom I've known amost since I moved to California. Tracy, the stand-up comedian, was supposed to come, too, but she had fallen and hurt her knee, wo couldn't make it.

After a glass of wine and a good curry salad and fruit, we sat down to talk, talk, and talk our theatre talk and reminicinces.  We also deviated into chlldhood, growing up, and various marriages and divorces. We broke up after 9:00 and I didn't get home until quarter of ten, late for me, but I have no plans for today and will sleep later. Watched some T.V., then turned in about 10:30.

WEDNESDAY

 Katherine picked me up for the BCNN meeting at 8:55 and off we went to Oxnard. The program was on "preventing falls" delivered by a nice young OT:

Katherine didn't want to go to lunch and I was okay with that. She dropped me off and I joined LaVerne; Bee and Mary sat down with us, too. After, I called the Access Van to schedule a ride to Erica's gathering tomorrow evening; to my dismay, they had none available. I called Erica and she suggested I call Becky; I did and she was kind enough to say she'll pick me up.

After, I just played a bit on my favorite Big Fish games, then went down to dime Bingo at 2:00. We had a long session--I didn't win a single game--and I didn't get back until almost time for dinner. Of course, dinner here is very early for my taste: 5:00 O'Clock, but I'm getting used to it, I guess. 

Also at Bingo: A Bengal cat on a leash suddenly walked in with his owner, my manacurist, Elika, and

we all made a big fuss over him. This is a good picture of kitty, but not of Elika. Here, she looks grumpy, but she actually has an appealing warm and fun-loving personality:  

Ate with Kathie, LaVerne, and Pat; Keith sat elsewhere. The salmon was good and so were the sides. Slept well and am looking forward to the "women of Fractured Actors" gathering at Erica's tonight. 

TUESDAY

 Following my urge, at 10:00 am. I took the city bus to CVS and Von's. Got my medication at the former and a few items at the latter. As I was sitting at the bus stop to get one home, Elika, my manucurist, came up. She and her daughter, Diana, had just been at Diana's high school graduation. E. offered to take me home and I accepted with pleasure. 

Got in just in time for lunch. Sat with Kathie and Keith--Pat didn't show--and had tasty shrimp tacos with sides. Upstairs after and put away my purchases, then did a bit on the laptop and prepared for dime Bingo at 2:00. Didn't win a single game, but enjoyed it, as ever. I stayed after for some of Trivia, but that's getting a little boring. Some of the questions are on topics so obscure to me that I don't enjoy it, so left about 4:00. Before I did, though, two of our servers came in; they had just come from their Buena High graduations. Some of the servers are in college or are college age; Samantha and Terry are two of the younger ones:

From left: Anita (who's 95), LaVon, Dyan, Samatha, Harry, Terry, Mary, and some frumpy old lady--AAGH!

Had dinner with Kathie, Pat, and Keith. The entree was "Asian pork," which didn't appeal to me, so I had a bagel and lox--very yummy.  After I showered and washed my hair, I settled down for the evening after an active and enjoyable day. 

MONDAY

 In lieu of breakfast, I took a load to the laundry room. I was able to play some games on the laptop while it was washing, then put it in the dryer and went down balance exercise class. It's annoying when a certain resident comes late, as she brings the chair next to mine and it was hard to spread my arms without hitting her. Hmm...maybe I should hit her...No, no, Mimi, now stop it. 

Exercise over, I retrieved the wash from the dryer, folded, and put it away. Went downstairs at 11:00 to wait for Susan to pick me up for Soaring Spirits lunch. She did and off we went to the Stone Fire Grille. Gayle was there and later, Glena and Lyndall came and we had a good, free-wheeling talk covering suicide, Las Vegas, and my grandson's pickleball place in Hatboro, Pa.

Amusingly, I had told Susan about my older great-grandson because her daughter is looking for a boyfriend. However, the daughter's twenty years older than he is, he's in Jersey, and--more significsantly, he just moved in with his girlfriend. Anyway, we had a very enjoyable session. Susan ill be gone for a month visiting her parents in San Diego, so I'll have to get to the next several dinners and lunches on my own. I'll probably use The Orchard van and the Access Van.

I asked Susan as a favor, to stop at CVS on the way home so I could pick up my medication.  That was about 2:00 and to my great annoyance, the pharmacy department was closed for an hour, presumably for lunch. Dammit, about six people work in that department--why can't they stagger lunch? I might go back today on the bus or else I'll ask Katherine to stop there after the BCNN meeting tomorrow.  

After I got home, I cleaned up a bit, then did ten minutes on the cardio bike. I want to increase it by five minutes each day until I hit a half hour and I'll do that daily. 

Erica texted, asking if we could go to lunch today instead of Thursday, as she's having Fractured Actors women over; of course, I'm invited, too. I told her I was booked today, so we'll make a lunch date for another time. I'll attend her little gathering, too. 

Dinner with Kathie, Pat, and Keith; didn't see LaVerne all day. 

SUNDAY--THE END OF AN ERA

I skipped lunch in favor of taking the Access Van to the farewell bash for Luminal Church and Fractured Actors. It was nothing like I expected, as there were only a handful of F.A. alums there besides me: Jonathan, Meredith, Bryan, Kathy, Alphonse, Lindsay, Ken, Amy, and Matt. The rest of the attendees--a hundred or so people--were all church members. They are now going to be moving to a new location and F.A. is effectively finished. The fact that Jeff and Shannon are now divorced and the site will no longer be available combined to end it. 

The party was held indoors and out and hamburgers and chips were provided, as well as water to drink (I was hoping for a cold beer), and a few games for the kids. I spoke to Jonathan, who has bleached his hair blond and looks like a model (he's in this twenties). He told me he and his husband are moving to Dallas and we had a good chat. Erica was a kind of M.C. and asked others to say a few words. I told of performing in Welcome Home when I first moved to California and discovered Fractured Actors; Erica was in it, too. Here are some pics of the bash: 

The Access Van picked me up a bit after 2:00 and, just as I was leaving, Shannon was coming. We hugged and she'll call me for lunch. 

As soon as I got back to The Orchard , I joined the Bingo crowd and actually won a game, although I was only there for two. After, I played Yahzee with volunteeer Cindy and Keith, Frances, and Beverly. Unfortunately, Beverly was obnoxious, directing everybody. Ha--I threw the dice and got Yahzee and won the game. Dined with Trudie, Carl, Carol, Stan, and Barbara. It was pork loin, but pretty tough, so I gave half of mine to Dyan for Della (her pup). 

Son Mike Facetimed me at 7:00 and we had a good talk. Vivian is in London and Violet was asleep (it was early morning there). Mike will be moving in July, as after the divorce, he had taken his present apartment because it was close to Violet's school. In September, she'll be at Savannah College of Art and Design and Mike will get a place more to his liking. 

Katherine texted me, asking if I wanted her to pick me up for the BCNN meeting on Wednesday. Sure, why not, and she will.

SATURDAY

 Lunch with Keith and LaVerne--none of us knew where Kathie was. After, I enjoyed winning a game in dime Bingo, then going upstairs to the salon for my manicure. Elika did a great job, as usual, and I'll be having her give me a pedicure next.

I just don't understand the electronic world: As I recorded here, I had been unable to use neither my unattached keyboard or my mouse, so had to make do with the laptop keyboard. However, after a day of this, the mouse suddenly started working and now--so has the keyboard I favor! Hey, if it lasts, I'm okay with it.

I saw neither Kathie not Keith at dinner (Keith came later), so ate with Allan, Beverly, and Frances. The entree was rice curry and meatballs, which didn't appeal to me, so I had a bagel with salmon. After dinner, I called Kathie and found that she has a burst blood vessel in her left eye and also has been feeling sluggish; she had blood work done and will see the doctor today.'

I ordored some IPA from Whole Foods and they had it delivered at 9:45 pm. That's really late for me, but I I just went to bed a little later. Slept well and got up at 6:15.

Today is the Fractured Actors farewell party Access Van will pick me up at 11:45.

FRIDAY

Stripped the bed and took the sheets to the laundry. I fooled around with this and that until time for the balance class at 10:00. After that, I stuck around to sit and chat with Mindy and Elaine. Dried the sheets, remade the bed, then went to lunch with Keith and LaVerne. We wondered where Kathie was, as she wasn't in the dining room for dinner Thursday night, either. I called her and   left a message.

I called the Access Van to schedule a pick up and drop off for tomorrow when I go to the Fractured Actors' final gathering, That's a melonchony prospect, but at least Second Act Players is in the works.

Went down to the singalong at 3:00; our resident pianist, Carol, played a lot of the old favorites and we sang along, with various mixed drinks to make it merry. 

Had dinner with Trudie, Carl, and Barbara, then went up to shower and get ready for bed. I've been sleeping well lately, I'm glad to say,  I'm debating with myself whether to go to Nails L'Elegance to get a pedicure. I have an appointment this afternoon with Elita for a manicure, so maybe I should just have her do it. Dunno...

THURSDAY

A quiet day.  I went to Bone Builders class at 10:30, then lunch directly after. Sat with Kathie, LaVerne and Bee and had a tasty bagel and lox. I then did nuthin' much aside from playing Jewel Match Royale and orderiing international stamps on-line.

I finally bestirred myself to go to the exercise room and ride the bike. I was pleased that I rode for a whole half-hour and felt good to do it. 

Dinner with Keith and LaVerne--don't know where Kathie was--and had some pleasant conversation, as usual. I skipped the main entree of quiche Lorraine and had the Asian salad. Took home the dessert--no sugar ice cream--but will return the dish.

 Damn, this laptop is acting up again. Now the unattached keyboard isn't working again and it'sso hard for me to use the attached one. Must consult Ellen.

WEDNESDAY

I went to the balance class at 10:00 and when it was over just did this and that, including my favorite Jewel Match Royale. Had lunch with Allan, Beverly, and Frances.

Mary Ann had told me she'll be out of town tomorrow, so won't be able to pick me up for T.O.P.S.; Cheryl then volunteered to do so. However, she called yesterday to say she wasn't going, as she had just gotten out of the hospital with pneumonia. I was alarmed to hear that, as she said she had fainted the other day. She has fainted before and that's pretty worrisome. I told her I wasn't too enthusiastic about going myself and she said she'd call Sharon to tell her. She did so and Sharon called me to say Lennie had decided to cancel the meeting. Fine by me.

I went to the new resident greeting meeting at 3:00. There was a good singer for entertainment, as well as various drinks. There were two newbies, Judy and Al (no related or connected) whom Mindy asked to say a few words. Judy, to whom I've spoken before, went on and on, saying she's an artist and a singer. Hmm...to say she's peculiar doesn't cut it.  I sat next to her at the Sabbatt on Saturday and she told me she had asked Jesus to give her permission to have a glass of wine; he complied. Also, at the gathering, Dyan told me Judy had said she was married to Jesus. Okay... As for the other newbie, Al, he had played in trumpet in the Hollywood Bowl when he was a kid. 

Back in my apartment at almost 5:00 and I wasn't the slightest bit hungry for dinner. However, I went down, sat with Keith, LaVerne, and Pat and enjoyed the crab salad.

Note: I received my Werther's no-sugar candy from Amazon and ordered a top on-line, which should be here in a few days.   

Note Two: I've been sleeping well and my BP has mostly been normal lately.

SUNDAY, MONDAY, AND TUESDAY

 FINALLY, my laptop is operational. I don't want to go into detail about what happened (which was my fault, no question) but my darling daughter, Ellen, fixed it. Anyway, here's a quick rundown  of the last three days:

SUNDAY: Lunch with Noreen and Gary at Danny's Deli, to which I took the city bus. Went to Target first and bought something, but I don't remember what. Also can't recall what I did the rest of the day.

MONDAY:  Susan picked me up and we went off to meet Vera and the rest of the former Soaring Spirits gang at The Greek, a restaurant overlooking the harbor. Had a great time both seeing Vera and celebrating her birthday, which had been the day before: 

She's forty-eight years and a day old!

From left, Frances, Gayle, Glenda, yours truly, Dinna, Vera, and Susan.

It was great seeing Vera, someone who's very close to my heart. It doesn't matter that she's considerably younger than my youngest child; we're soulmates.

TUESDAY:  Dear Ellen came at 11:30 and fixed this machine. Can't remember exactly what I had done to it, but I was all set to take it to Axion. Luckily, there was no need. We then went to BOA for  me to get dimes for dime Bingo, and topped the day off with Jasmine Thai for lunch. 

When I got home, I immediately went to the multi-purpose room for my Bingo fix. I actually won two games and now am swimming in dimes. El came after, bringing me the Miracle-Gro for tomatoes and graduation cards for Vivian and Violet. She fed the tomatoes and they're already bearing fruit--still small and green, but they'll be wonderful when ripe. 

Dinner with Kathie, Keith, and Pat. It was meat loaf and not bad. Slept reasonably well, but it's now 3:45 am and what am I doing up?  I just got up for the usual and felt like playing my match game  on the laptop. Hey, I have no plans for today, so I can nap later, so what's the prob with that?