FRIDAY

 AAGH! I usually write up most of my entries the day of, then just top them off the next morning and publish. I just didn't have a chance to do that yesterday, so here it is, Saturday morning, and I'm just getting to it. Okay, I'll plunge right into activities:

Ellen picked me up at 9:30 and we went to the neurologist's office to be seen by the P.A., Brittany.* I don't want to go into detail, but so far, it doesn't seem too concerning. After, we went to lunch at the Cheesecake Factory; had big salads for a yummy lunch. 

Back at my place, El set up my meds for the next five days. I'll see her on Tuesday, when I have yet another doctor's appointment. Driving home, we enjoyed seeing the snow on the distant mountains:

Snow on Topa Topa and the range.

Dinner with Kathie, Keith, and Cheryl, then I deviated from my usual routine and went to see Crazy Rich Asians, which was shown not in the activities room, but in the library, which is right down the hall from my apartment. It's eight years old and I've seen it before, but still greatly enjoyed it, as it takes place and was shot in Singapore. I remember being in many of the settings, such as the Marina Bay Sands hotel at the harbor:

Yes, I was at the very top, where there's a pool and a spectacular view.

Back at my place at 8:00 and I finished up watching "Epstein: Filthy Rich," an apt title if I ever saw one, then slept soundly. Lunch with Noreen at Danny's Deli, today, and Shawn, the picture hanger, is coming at 4:00.  

*I'm beginning to line up with others who believe P.A.s are as knowledgeable--and certainly as personable, if not more so--as M.D.'s. Of course, I've never laid eyes on "my" doctor at this point, so I can't be sure.

THURSDAY

Breakfast, as usual, with Keith. Upstairs later to answer some emails, pay some bills, and otherwise address everyday chores. Took a load of wash to the laundry room, got that done, and cleaned up a bit. Did my morning set of exercises. 

Went down to lunch and sat with Cheryl and Catherine; Keith joined us later. Catherine had lived in SO-FI for several years and I had known her slightly, but got to know her better yesterday. She's had some difficult years, her daughter having some kind of brain condition and her son dying of something else. 

I didn't do much else after lunch except call Noreen to see if she was available for lunch on Saturday. She was, I was glad to hear, so we'll meet at 12:30 at Danny's Deli; must call the Access Van. Called Shawn, yet another picture-hanger and he'll come at 6:00 pm this evening to finish up the ones in the bedroom. 

Instead of my usual, I had dinner with a group that included couples Peter and Patricia, Carol and Stan, and Trudie and Carl, the last two "Orchard Ambassadors." That means they do things gratis for which otherwise the organization would have to pay. I put that in the same category as "convenience fees," but it's voluntary, of course, so I guess I should butt out.

Trudie, a champion non-stop talker, told me all about her two daughters, both of whom have doctorates and aced the entrance exams to Stanford, etc., etc. and so on and on. Did she inquire about my family? Why, no, of course not, what sense would that make? I was amused when she told me she's Carl's fourth wife and that Carl is deaf as a post--self-defense maybe? 😄  

Neurologist this morning, to which I'm not looking forward.

WEDNESDAY

Early on, it was pretty much the same old, same old. Breakfast with Keith, tidied up a bit after, lunched with Keith, Cheryl, and Mary, then took a nap. 

The P.T., Alain, arrived at 3:00 and put me through my paces. He had me walk down the hall using my cane and showed me the proper way to handle it. He also corrected some of my posture in doing my exercises, as well as adding some new ones. These are all to address my balance, of course, and I'm determined not to let them slide.

Called Quest Diagnostics to make an appointment for blood work in August. Katherine texted me and said she'd like to go to "Women of the Night," the show at the Santa Paula Playhouse that my friend, Suzy, is in,  on Sunday, March1. That's perfect for me. Julie won't be going with us,  but that's okay. 

Ellen called and we talked over a few things. I had given her the pictures painted by my Uncle Frank of the farmhouse where he and my father were brought up. She hung them in the guest room, sent me a picture, and I like how they look: l'll see her on Friday, when she takes me to the neurologist. 

Dinner with all four of the group. I got the main entree, pulled pork and bourbon beans. We all thought that last was hysterically funny--there was no booze evident in the beans and it sounded weird, anyway.  

Slept well and got up a little after 5:00. 

TUESDAY

Up at 6:15, showered, then went down to breakfast with Keith. Upstairs after to work on the entranceway decorations. I put the slender shelving there, with a few artifacts--may alter  it later. 

Lunch, bur for a change with Allan and Beverly. Ellen came at 1:15 and we tried to figure out if I had been doing my BP measurement properly. Maybe not and I'm going to concentrate on that. We got to the cardiologist's office on schedule at 2:40, filled out some papers, and met Dr. Wang. I wished her a happy new year and she returned the sentiment.

As for the medical stuff, it seems I have a heart murmur which nobody else had recognized; however, it seems not to be of concern. She added a medication for, I think, the BP, but Ellen has all that stuff down. We went to CVS immediately to pick up the new meds, during which it started to rain. I waited in the car while El got my new meds, as well as the nice bottle of cream sherry I requested. (In addition, Express Scripts will be sending a refill of another of my medications.)

Back at my place, El started filling my pill boxes while I went down with dinner. I sat with Keith and we had a good talk-session; the others were at another table. Home about 6:30. 

Slept well again and didn't get up until the alarm rang at 6:15.

MONDAY

I awoke to the steady drum of rain on the window. I'm certainly not going out, but will get some ever-lasting work done--I think.  Had raisin bran instead of my usual poached eggs and I enjoyed it. Once I went back to my place, I gathered up whites and set them awash in the laundry room. I then fell into bed and was sound asleep within minutes. Got up an hour or so later and did something or other--don't  remember what. 

Ellen called and I found I do, indeed, have an appointment today--with a cardiologist, Dr. Wang, in Oxnard, at 2:40. Ellen will pick me up after lunch. Well, at least, I'll be here for the Chinese New Year celebration--a special lunch and something else I don't remember.

Lunch with Kathie and Keith. Cheryl was originally at the table, too, but moved to another with Mary. Tilapia for lunch, which was so-so.  After, I sat down to put my pills in the pill boxes. Ellen will check them when she comes.

Below: decorations for celebration of the Chinese New Year. There'll be a special Chinese-themed luncheon today.

   

 

Dinner with Kathie, Keith, and for a short time, Cheryl. This was called "Chuckwagon Sandwich," but was actually a kind of slider on a Hawaiian bun. It was really good and we're all going to compliment the chef. I napped after lunch, so was a little worried I wouldn't be able to sleep, but happy day, I just got up at 6:10.

Cardiologist appointment this afternoon. 

SUNDAY

David picked me up at 8:00 and off we went to Two Trees. It was busy, but not as crowded as I've seen it and we had a good time. David, being a bird scientist, said he was pleased at the trees on The Orchard grounds--they're full and vigorous, not trimmed heavily as the ones at SO-FI.

Got back about 10:30 and did a little cleaning up before Vickie and Kay picked me up at noon. We met Suzanne, who had been distributing communion, at Rincon and settled in to have a wonderful time. It was so good to be with old friends; much as I like many of the people I've met here, we have no common history, at this point, anyway, and that makes a difference. Vickie and I treated the birthday girls, Suzanne, 78 and Kay, 80. That last is hard to believe: Kay looks, to me, anyway, no older than in her sixties:

Vickie, Suzanne, Mimi, Kay

We had a wonderful time, thanks to my companions, and I'm looking forward to more outings. Got in about 2:30 and I promptly fell asleep (maybe I don't have as much stamina as I thought I did). I didn't wake up until 4:20, almost time to go to dinner!  I knew I wouldn't be able to eat a thing and brought a container. Drank an iced tea with Keith, Cheryl, and Mary, then excused myself and took my dinner upstairs. 

Just looked outside and ugh, it's raining. I understand that messiness will go on for several days, so I'm glad I had my outings yesterday. Had a terrible time sleeping last night and feel groggy right now at 8:45. That suggests a nap later today, which could lead to to bitter cycle--AAGH! But not, I'm not going to indulge in negativity, of which there's too much around here to begin with.

 

SATURDAY

Breakfast with Keith and lunch with Kathie and Cheryl. The chicken plicata was excellent and we all enjoyed it. Back in my apartment, I called Elika, the manicurist who comes several days a week and, luckily, I was able to get in at 2:00. She did a great job and also, I enjoyed talking to her--born and brought up in Santa Barbara, three children, and so on and so forth.  I love to question strangers, especially young people, and see what makes them tick. 

I had had every intention on trying the city bus with the walker for the first time yesterday, but at the last minute I lost my nerve. I'll try for next week unless I decide to take the Access Van, which is kind of a pain. 

Darn, I can't find the box of cards anywhere and today, Vickie and I are taking Suzanne and Kay out to lunch.  Think I'll ask David, with whom I'm going to breakfast, to let me stop at CVS or The Dollar Tree to pick some up. What's even worse is I still haven't dug out my Dad's pictures of his high school debating group and Villanova track team. Where could they be? 

FRIDAY

The Access Van picked me up shortly after noon and got me to town before one. Noreen was already seated outside at Paradise Panty and we settled down for lunch and a visit. We both had turkey pesto grilled sandwiches, which are superb (I don't know why more restaurants don't serve them) and she enjoyed sangria, while I did the same with a Purple Tears IPA. It was so pleasant to hear about her doings and telling her mine.

We lingered for an hour or so, then said goodbye. I walked along Main, stopping in various shops. Didn't buy anything, but was pleased to again be in town, just looking around and getting exercise. Walked back to the museum where the Access Van delivered picked me up. I Messaged my ex-daughter-in-law, Paula, congratulating her on Vivian's achievement in being accepted by University College London, one of the top schools in the world, according to Wikipedia: 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_College_London

Later, Paula responded and we had a good back-and-forth exchange. Dinner with Kathie, Cheryl, and Keith, after which Mike Facetimed me for a chat. It was a good day and--may wonders never cease--I slept well, just getting up at 5:15--happy day! 

Note: Unfortunately, I can't find the 9 x 10 pictures of my father's high school debating team and college track team and the snapshot of Betty and me in his Ventnor garden. In my SO-FI apartment, I had had them grouped over my dining room/kitchen table and it seems impossible they were lost, but I'm getting more and more nervous about it. Will keep looking. 

THURSDAY, BRIDGET, AND PICS

After breakfast (I reverted back to my two poached eggs on toast), I prepared for the P.T. and for the new picture hanger. The former was to come between one and two and the latter after 3:00; both arrangements suited me fine. I worked all the way up to lunchtime, which is quarter to twelve around here.  

Soon after, I called another picture hanger who texted me he could come after 3:00 yesterday(much as I like Ryan, I didn't want to pay the $175. per hour he charges). Great, especially since the P.T. was coming between 1 and 2. She did and boy, I haven't enjoyed myself with any other medical person except my own daughter! Bridget and I sat down to get to know each other and while we chatted, she mentioned she and her twin sister were the youngest of five daughters. "Hey, you must be Catholic," I said, and yes, indeed, she is. After that, we settled into friend talk before we got down to business. Bridget herself has two sons and is a practicing Catholic. She said her twin other members of her family are--well, depending on your beliefs, either "fallen away" of "recovering." However, she's also interested in the Law of Attraction and may call Ellen to ask about it. Anyway, it was great to talk to her. Bridget also, of course, assessed my balance and instructed me in what we hope to be effective exercises to help correct it.  

The picture hanger, Sergei, wasn't here by dinnertime, so I texted him and he responded he'd get here at 6:00, so I went down to dinner.  I was almost finished when Activities director Mindy came over to say he was here. Went back to my place with him and he hung the pics in the living area. I decided not to ask him to do the bedroom ones. I want to have some over my desk, the bookcase, and so on, and I may have strategize to get them to fit. Anyway, I haven't come across the ones of my father's Villanova class pic, so I'll hold off.

I wish I could hold this sleeping pattern off. For the last two nights, I've awoken at one or two and couldn't get back. I hope that will change tonight, as I'm meeting Noreen for lunch and will be more active.  

WEDNESDAY

Breakfast with Keith, then I went up to prepare for my doctor appointments. Ellen picked me up and we we met with P.A. Natalli M. at Primary Medical to go over my recent information. I asked a lot of questions--so did Ellen--and were given satisfactory (if not all welcomed) answers. After that, we went to the Wood Ranch for lunch, both El and I getting our favorite BBQ salad, this time with salmon. Here's my darling daughter enjoying her lunch:

Ha--her glasses are the "darken when bright" kind and Wood Ranch is pretty briight. The drink is a pretend Margarita, i.e. non-alcoholic.  

We then went to Dollar Tree where I picked up three pair of reading glasses (why pay more than $1.59 just for close work?) and WinCo for lemons and a tomato.

Directly from there, we went to Rolling Oaks Radiology where I had a C.T. It took only a few minutes and was easy for me to handle. Back in my place, El went over my appointments and calendar, called some unclear ones, and generally got me back on track. She also filled my pill holders for the next week; I'll add the OTC ones myself. What's more, she solved the rebus Mr. K., my Tokyo grandson sent: 

For some reason, I can't seem to flip it. Anyway, the answer will appear on the next entry. Ellen got it right away.

El stayed working on the info even after I went downstairs for dinner. She left shortly after, waving goodbye from the balcony. Ate with Cheryl, Mary, and Keith, then went back up. It was only 6:00, so I took a load of wash to the laundry room and did the routine, retrieving it about 8:00. I plan to put another in today.

The P.T. is to come in this afternoon to assess, evaluate, and advise--AAGH, I can't wait for a free day! 

TUESDAY AND THE UNIVERSITY OF LONDON

Breakfast with Keith, then I continued with the picture stuff and otherwise cleaning up. Called the desk to ask that Dun-Lonnie, who usually does the housework on Tuesday afternoon, hold off until today, as the picture-hanger was coming. He did and boy, does it look good. 

Industriously continued my household chores, searching out items to find out where they had been stowed and to put elsewhere. I was able to take the bubble wrap off a lot of pictures, them prop them up against the walls I want them on.

At 3:00, I went down to attend the Tatjana show. I had seen her before and again, was just enthralled. She sang a number of great songs, changing costumes between them, and danced in between. When she sang Don't Cry For Me, Argentina, there wasn't a dry eye in the house, including mine:

Incredibly, Tatjana is sixty-five years old!

Dinner with the regulars. It was beef chili, preceded by something soup, both pretty good. Home, I showered and prepared for my doctor and radiology appointments tomorrow. Called Ellen and she'll be here between 10:00 and 10:15, so I'll see her about quarter to eleven. (KIDDING! 😛)

💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫

Incredible news from son Mike about my granddaughter: --Vivian has today been accepted into the #3 graduate program globally for Pharmacology (drug development) at University College London. Founded in 1826, UCL is in central London and is considered the top public research university in the field globally (As Harvard and Oxford are effectively private.) 

Her term starts in late September and she’ll start with the Masters in Pharmaceutics after which she plans on a PhD either at UCL or another school.  She’s extremely happy as this was her first choice and one of her best friends is also in Medical school there.--

Mike added: Of 400 globally offering that field of study, Harvard is first, Oxford second, and University of London third. Hey, I'm thrilled--yay for Vivian! 💖

💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫

MONDAY

Still working on the clearing up and cleaning out. I was delighted to find the (copied) Villanova 1922 yearbook; I Messaged Susan, my nephew's wife, that I could send it to her, but want it back.  Their oldest son is on the verge of college and may be interested in his great-grandfather's alma mater. 

Ellen called to tell me about the Law of Attraction conference she attended over the weekend. We discussed that for some time until I had to go down to lunch. She'll be here tomorrow to take me to Primary Medical, then lunch, to which I'm looking forward.  Ate with Cheryl and Mary; Linda B. joined us. Doris called yet again and talked non-stop until I fibbed by telling her I had to go out. AAGH, maybe I should have let sleeping dogs lie--or old friends stay in the past!

Back in my place, I continued my triumphant project of rearranging, separating, categorizing, and otherwise organizing all the mountains of memorabilia I've accumulated over sixty-some years. Darn, it just occurred to me I haven't even opened the chest and there's yet more in there.  

Dinner with the usuals. Some kind of Mexican stew was on the menu, but I opted for a turkey burger, which was actually pretty good. Back upstairs, I talked to Ellen, who asked if I wanted her to bring anything from the supermarket. I told her cottage cheese, avocados, and cash, which she'll do.

I still have some things to do before the picture hanger comes this afternoon, including where I want them hung, but I'll do that after breakfast. I wanted to attend bone builders at 10:30, but am not sure I want to take the time--mebbe, as the cowboys say.

SUNDAY AND CHRISTMAS

Breakfast with Keith and lunch with the regulars. In between, I spent the entire almost three hours  going through my Christmas decorations, so I could clear some out. Incredibly, when I finished, I had only one small box with six or seven items in it. I just couldn't bear to part with some of the things, although they have no sentimental value. The good part is that I consolidated a lot of things and made room for transferring some of the items in my bedroom closets to the bigger one and that was helpful.  

After lunch, I got my book, sunglasses, and straw hat and sat outside in the sun reading Being Mortal for about an hour. Called Greg, and we chatted for just a bit; we'll set up a dinner date for the three of us when Ellen gets back from the Law of Attraction conference tonight. 

When I came in, I saw that the Super Bowl party was going on in the activities room, so stopped in for a bit. Had a Margarita (looked and tasted more like Kool-Aid), a little sandwich, and some crackers with hummus, and watched as long as I could stand it, about twenty minutes. Professional football just bores the Hell out of me, so that was enough. I guess that was true of most of the residents, as there were only twelve people there. 

Dinner with Keith, Cheryl, and Mary; not sure where Kathie was. Dee joined us and I left soon after. I had brought a container because I had eaten too much at the Super Bowl thing, so had it later. Took a shower and that continues to be an annoyance, but it still felt good. I know the solution is doable and I  can work on it. 

Called Noreen and we made a date for lunch on Friday. Mary Ann won't be at T.O.P.S. this week and I'm not sure  if I'll go, either. It would be simpler not to, although I probably should. Not sure if I even want to. Decisions, decisions..

Darn, I didn't sleep well last night; got up at 3:00 for the usual and only dozed after that. The P.T. was supposed to come today, but I'm not sure and I don't know what time. I'll talk to Ellen about it.  

SATURDAY AND THE LOST AND FOUND CAT

Got up and went down the hall to put a linen wash in. Down to breakfast and Dyann (Dyan?)  next door, sat with me. Keith came shortly after and we enjoyed chatting. After eating, Keith left and Dyann and I lingered to catch up on each other. We talked for a good forty-five minutes and I learned all about her. I knew she had never married or had children, but didn't know other particulars and it was interesting.

Transferred the clothes to the dryer, did a few little chores, consolidated some of my lists and, before I knew it, it was time for lunch. Sat down with Cheryl and Mary, saw their long faces, and asked why. "Willow is missing," I was told. I was so sorry; Willow is Mary's cat the same one that just recovered from surgery. When I heard the circumstances, though, I was taken about. Mary has a porch/patio as I do, but is on the third floor. It seems she leaves both doors (a storm/screen door is included)  open at night. Willow must have gotten out that way, since the only other one is the front door that goes out to the hall. I wouldn't be surprised if she somehow found a way to climb out or down from the patio; cats are very agile. I asked if she had notified management; they sometimes use a microphone to announce happenings to residents (the sound goes into the public areas but not the residents' quarters), and she hadn't. She and Cheryl went to talk to assistant Tia who later came back with a flyer which will be posted in the elevator and elsewhere. I'm surprised she hadn't done that before. Lunch was pretty good--maple salmon, wild rice, and veggies--and I enjoyed it. 

After we ate, I retrieved my linens, took them home, folded, and put them away. I did remarkably little else of note before I went down to dinner. Cheryl and Mary were already there and I was delighted to hear Willow had been found. She had gone out on the porch/patio and had apparently fallen or jumped off. She was found at the door of a person who lives on the ground floor. She seems not to have been hurt and is now safely back in the apartment. I assume--I hope--Mary will no longer leave the door open.

I skipped the meatball sub and had the chicken Caesar salad for dinner. It was good, but they were short-staffed and I didn't get back to my place until 7:15. That was all right--I had a free day and will have another today. 

I'm glad to report that I've been sleeping well lately; didn't get up until the alarm went off at 6:30. 

FRIDAY WITH MY FRIEND

 AAGH! I gained two pounds (to 136.2) at home and two (137.4) at T.O.P.S.; now, I'm going to have to plan my strategy or disaster awaits!

So, no breakfast and I was hungry by lunchtime. Sat with the regulars and had "Marry Me Chicken," which nobody ever heard of before, but it was  a pasta dish and pretty good. Left to go directly to the beauty salon where Caitlin washed and blow-dried my hair. It look good and even now, still does.  

After that, I was just skipping around on the Internet when, once again, my newly re-found friend, Doris, called me from Virginia. We talked for almost an hour, lighting on the topic of our parents' deaths. She told me her mother's name, but she didn't know her age, when she had died, or when she was born, and other pertinent information, such as what the malady was that killed her. She doesn't have any death certificate or obituary, either, so I told her I'd look it up. I found dozens of listings for "Alice Norton" and some obits, but none that matched any info I had. It occurred to me that Doris may actually have been mistaken at her mother's name at death--wasn't Alice Norton a character in that Jackie Gleason show?

On a cheerier note, Vickie picked me up at 5:15. I had asked her to pick the restaurant and boy, this was a great choice. We went to Enzo's in Santa Paula, a large, other-worldly place in a hotel and boy, this was a great choice. I had been there only once before, last May with Julie. I loved it then and loved it last night: 

Enzo's is Italian and we both had pasta. I had had pasta for lunch, but so what? I love the stuff and this was just superb. Maybe I shouldn't have, but I indulged myself with an IPA--heaven in a glass--and that was a delightful meal.  

My dear friend and me.

After a leisurely meal and great conversation, we went back to my place and Vickie showed me the surprise she had brought. It was a little statue set of all the U.S. Presidents, up to--if I remember correctly--Lyndon Johnson. Her mother had collected them for Vickie when she was a child and later, sent them to her. We greatly enjoyed reading their term dates, discussing their terms, and reminiscing. Here they are, along with V.:

(Note the pictures behind the couch; hanger is coming on Tuesday.)

After a thoroughly delightful evening, we said goodbye about 10:15 (practically the middle of the night for me, but I didn't care), and I went to bed without reading, T.V., or anything but Dreamland. Can't wait to see Vickie again, along with Suzanne and Kay when we celebrate their birthdays on the fifteenth.

THURSDAY

Breakfast, with Keith. We chatted for quite a while, then I gathered up my laundry and went to the laundry room to wash it, but what was this? Both washers were labeled out of order, so I went up to the third floor to use the ones there. I ran into another resident and was told there are two laundry rooms on each floor. I never knew that and will search out the second second floor one. In the meantime, I got the laundry done.

I wandered outside in the gorgeous sunshine and saw that the clubhouse doors were open and people were in there; found out that Bone Builders were meeting there and I joined them. Cheryl P., one of my friends, is a kind of assistant director, so she was there, too. I joined them for the exercises and I'll probably continue. It meets only twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays, and I can handle that. Cheryl and I went directly from there to lunch, joining Kathy, Keith, and Mary. 

After, going up in the elevator, a woman came in who greeted me by name. This was Katherine, with whom I had been acquainted (she knows Suzanne and Vickie better) at SO-FI. I knew she was coming in on the fifth, but I've met so many people in the last six weeks, I actually forgot who she was. I said hello, but should have greeted her more warmly. 

The nurse or P.T. or O.T.--actually, she was an aide--was due between 2:30 and 4:30, so I didn't want to go out. In the meantime, I took the bubble wrap off a lot of pictures, so I can decide where the bigger ones will go when the picture hanger comes on Tuesday. I now have a dozen or more propped against the walls and so on--AAGH, I can't wait until this moving-in crapola is over!

The aide came about 3:00 and guided me through a shower. She asked if I wanted her to come back every week, but I said no--I will buy a shower chair and do it myself. 

Went down to dinner and saw newcomer Catherine again. I apologized for not recognizing her earlier and she appreciated that. I'll see her again. 

Happily, Vickie called--good thing, because I had written our dinner date on Saturday, whereas we're meeting tonight. She'll pick me up about 5:15 and I'm looking forward to it so much. She also invited me to join her, Suzanne, and Kay, on Sunday, the fifteenth, to celebrate the latter two's birthdays. Suzanne will be 78 and Kay, 80 and I was pleased to accept.

Dinner with The Four and we had lasagna, which was actually pretty good.

I had called Doris G. earlier, but had to cut it off for dinner. She called me back after and talked-talked-talkety-talked with hardly a breath. Okay, finally I lied in my teeth and told her there was something I had to do and we'll get in touch later--whew!  

WEDNESDAY AND WATER

Had breakfast with Keith, then Julie picked me up at 8:45 and we took off for the BCNN meeting. First, though, we picked up Lelo and Gerry, both of whom I had met before. As soon as she stepped in the car, Gerry started talking, all abut herself and in the most obnoxious possible way: "I was a very successful real estate agent for twenty-five years, my three children are all tops in their field, my home is a showplace, and I'm a person you should thank the universe exits, and wonderful me and I'm great, and BLUB, BLAB, BLEEP!"  

The program was about the Ojai Tortoise Preserve--mildly interesting and I'm going to tell Vera about it; she's my friend who has turtles as pets. They gave out this mag (the title reminiscent of National Geographic)  at the  meeting, called, wouldn't you know, The Tortoise: 

Interestingly, Katherine, who was with us, also has a interest in tortoises. She was married to a Costa Rican at one time and she and her family used to visit a tortoise/turtle refuge there. Here she is--they're hard to make out, but she's wearing her turtle earrings:

BTW, here's a bit of important information: All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises; there are dozens of varieties. Katherine took me home and I was pleased when she told me she had bought and read War Made Invisible, which I had recommended. It's great to find another pacifist.  

Home shortly before lunch and I ate with the usuals. After, I prepared as much as possible for Gus, the picture hanger, but realized I had concentrated only on the two largest. Why in the world, after almost two months, didn't I even unwrap the others, especially the next largest. As it turned out, it got to be 3:00 and then 4:00 and he still hadn't come. We gather for dinner at 4:45 and if he were here, I'd have to miss. I called him, we talked, and I told him I'd rather he waited, anyway. He agreed and we made a date for next Tuesday, the tenth, at the same time. If he's late then, I don't care, because I'll have had time to look over my pics. Then after this jammed week, I'll have a free day on Saturday; I should label that a fun day, as Vickie's going to pick me up and we're going out, just the two of us, for dinner. Can't wait!

Annoyingly, we were notified that the water will be off from 7:00 to 11:00 tonight and I filled up two potsa (I'm writing this at 7:08 pm). Think I'll go check...yep, no wa-wa...

...but now it's 6:30 A.M. on Thursday and the ordeal (no biggie) is over--full flow! 

TUESDAY

Breakfast with Keith, of course, but not Mary or Kathy. Ursula sat down with us, though, for better or worse. Back upstairs, I did this and that as I waited for Ellen, who came at nine to pick me up for the whatever-it-was radiology test. It was for the thyroid, I think, and we got back about 10:30. At 11:00, the visiting R.N., Amanda, came and did some kind of wellness check, including BP. Ellen had brought my new BP machine and Amanda took mine. It was 150/80, which is higher than it should be (140/90) but I guess no cause for alarm. She'll be back and so will Francis the nurse and the O.T., and who knows who else.

El put in my meds while I went down to lunch; ate with Kathy and Cheryl. Ellen came to say goodbye when she was finished, as she's going on to a "Law of Attraction" seminar today and I won't see her again until Monday. Boy, will I miss her, even though we don't always see eye-to-eye, she's my help and support and one of my best friends.

Went upstairs to wait for Carolyn, then Du-Lani came to do the (light) housekeeping. I don't like to be in her way while she's cleaning, so I went downstairs. Carolyn was already there and we sat in the kind of reception area to chat. I showed her around a bit, then we went up to my place. She said she just loved it and if she didn't have a family, she'd move right in. My dear niece brought me some terrific gifts; this lovely succulent that will look great on my porch/patio: 

And how I'll enjoy these, of course--a bottle of Abruzzo and six cans of hazy IPA:

But WHAT?!? This is the terrible stuff I shouldn't be drinking right?

Wrong. Note the 0.0 on the bottle; there's no alcohol in either of them.

 

After we chatted in my place, we took a walk around the grounds and Carolyn took this selfie, but jeez, I look like Old Lady Goofball:

But no matter: I had a wonderful day with the person I love most in the world after my own family. She left just at quarter of 5:00 and I went down to dinner. I sat with the only Asian woman who lives at The Orchard, Julie, who's from the Philippines, because my own group of four were seated at a table for four. Actually, I kind of like a change of dining companions now and then, although Julie tends to be a none-stop talker.  

Back upstairs, I took my BP with the new machine. I was disappointed to find it was 170/96, but am hoping it will lower tomorrow.  BCNN meeting this morning, then we may go to lunch, then the picture hanger this afternoon.

MONDAY

Had breakfast with Keith and, for the first time, Kathie; Mary didn't show. After, I got a few minor things done, and assembled as much as I could of my medical paperwork, which is beginning to drive me crazy--or crazier.

Ellen got here at 11:30 and we went off to the Stone Fire Grille for lunch. I wasn't sure any of the former Soaring Spirits members, but four were and a newbie came later. We had a good time and Ellen made a big hit. It was great to see them again, especially Susan, but of course, I miss Vera, our former leader, who moved to Oregon.

Home about 2:00 and El and I took a walk around the campus, then spent an inordinate amount of time catching with the appointment stuff. Today, I go to Rolling Oaks (that always reminded me of a motorcycle gang) Radiology for--I believe, two tests of some kind. In the afternoon, though, niece Carolyn is coming for a visit and I'm looking forward to that.

Dinner with the usual five of us. I slipped away before dessert to take a shower and that felt good. Didn't wash my hair, as I'm having Caitlin, the on-site hairdresser, wash and blow-dry it on Friday at 1:00. 

El called to say after that to say the O.T., Andrea, will come tomorrow to advise about adjustments to the shower so I can be safe and comfortable. What I want includes a new shower head. Everybody is advising me to get a shower chair. I had a stool, but I just don't like to sit down while showering. I don't feel comfortable to begin with, and prefer to stand.  

Dinner with the other four; it was pork loin and not bad, then I--successfully--took a shower, but I still want to make some improvements. El called to confirm she'll be here at 9:00 today to take me to Rolling Oaks. This will be three days in a row she's come and I hope she doesn't think this: 

SUNDAY WITH STELLA

Breakfast with Keith. I noticed Mary and Cheryl were sitting together, talking intensely. Kathy came to sit with us and said they were discussing a serious personal topic. Had my usual poached eggs and went back upstairs to prepare for Stella. She texted me after mass at The Mission and got here promptly at 11:00. I was pleased that she had brought me four lemons from her tree, plus a nice ripe avocado. 

We went up to my apartment and I showed her around, then down to lunch. She and I sat by ourselves, but I introduced her to Mary. After, we went to Wal-Mart, then to Green Thumb and I got three lovely primrose plants, white, yellow, and purple. Stella will be moving soon and asked if I wanted to take some of the succulents in her gardens, of which she has dozens. I hope to get over there one of these days and pick some out.

Mike called while we were driving home. I called him back when Stella left, and we had a good chat. He's in Austin until the end of the week and I told him I decided I shouldn't go to Vivian's U. of Hawaii graduation in May. He had said my children were all very concerned about that--they think the trip and the hubbub would be too much for me and I reluctantly concurred. He was glad I made that decision and, happily, the university videotapes the whole thing and I'll be able to see it.

Dinner with Keith, Mary, and Cheryl. After, I met a new resident named Beverly (she told me she heard there are eight Beverlys here, although that's hard to believe)  and we had a nice chat. She had lived at The Lexington--I'm not sure for how long--and had disliked a lot of it, so moved here. I invited her in to see my place and we seemed to bond--we'll see. 

Ellen called; she'll be here today and we'll go out for lunch. I suggested we go to the Stone Fire Grille and meet up with the Soaring Spirits group. It disbanded when leader Vera moved to Oregon, but I think the rest are still meeting twice a month, but simply as friends. 

SATURDAY

At breakfast, Mary wore one of her many kitty shirts: 

Happily, her Willow is rapidly improving and will get the scratch avoider (face cone?) off today.

Compared to other days, it was pretty quiet. I washed my sheets before lunch, but when I went to get the new ones I had bought, they were king-sized, so I put back the other ones. Ellen has king-sized, so I'll see if she can use them. 

Lunch with the usual four, then I went out on the sunny campus to sit and call Muckie. We had a good, long talk for thirty minutes or so. She's not recovering from the pancreatic cancer--you don't recover--and it has reached the liver, but so far, she' doing pretty well. She can't get to the hospital for her chemo because on top of the horrific snow storm, they had a dreadful ice storm. 

I spent an inordinate amount of time trying to set up my medications. Ellen and the visiting nurse had done it before, but this is a new week and I didn't want to wait. I think I got it right.

Went down to dinner at the usual horrendously early hour so 4:45, damnit, but I guess there isn't much I can do about it. Ate with Keith and Kathy, as Mary and Cheryl were having a heart-to-heart at another table.

Slept okay, although I woke up, I glanced at my phone, thought it said 6:15, so got up, as my alarm goes off at 6:15. After I had washed and partially dressed, I saw it said 5:30, but oh, well, I turned in at 9:00, so got eight hours. 

Stella is supposed to come to lunch today after 11:00 o'clock mass at the Mission. Whether she'll get here in time for lunch is iffy, but to be honest, I don't really care. 

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On Facebook Duane's partner, Ani, posted the above of Duane and his twin daughters...

which was accompanied by the request below for friends to reply to these questions:

Coincidentally, I came across an FB entry of mine on which Duane commented and we had a fun exchange. I plan to share it with Ani.

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