FRIDAY

A glimpse of hope re weight: At home, I was down 1.2 for 137.6; at T.O.P.S, not as good--down .08 for 139--but I was down, that's the important thing. At the meeting, I emphasized that some Orchard residents may come next Friday, and we need to have a regular program. Curleen volunteered, so that will be good. I'll bring my individual coffee maker--must get cream and sugar--and others will bring tea, snacks, and so on. 

As I always do on Fridays, I missed breakfast. At 10:00, I attended the Balance With Jackie class, so was famished by lunchtime. Sat with Keith, Kathie, and Cheryl and had corned beef and cabbage, which was yum, except I had asked for extra cabbage and didn't get it--oh, well. After, I sat out in the sun and read my book; Keith wants to borrow it when I'm finished.   

At 3:00, I went down to Happy Hour, which included a drink called a "Blue Lagoon"; I'm not sure what was it it, but it was pretty good. We played a kind of quasi-Pictionary, which was weird. Elaine draw a picture on a big white board and Mindy gave clues about it. I guessed the first one, which was the Taj Mahal and one of the others--Niagara Falls.  Mindy asked if I had ever done a newsletter, as she's going to start one, and, of course, I have, but I certainly won't be doing one free of charge here. I'll give her some ideas and suggestions, though.

My usual meal companions were already seated with a fourth for dinner , so I ate with David and Lisa, a nice change, actually. Rather than presenting with down-in-the-mouth negatively, they're chipper and intelligent, especially David, who's an attorney. Keith was also unable to sit with the usuals, so sat at the table next to ours.

Got some wonderful pictures from Ellen, showing a stop they made at Monkey Island. I'm getting my nails done at 10:00, then will be picked up at 2:00 and go to the 3:00 showing of Project Hail Mary, with Ryan Gosling. We'll got to dinner after, maybe to Dargan's or Immigrant Son.

THURSDAY

A fun time! I was picked at 10:00 and we drove to the ocean Promenade. It was an absolutely gorgeous day--not a cloud in the blue sky, about 75 degrees, and with a gentle breeze.  We started at the Crown Plaza Hotel and walked (I with my walker) almost to the end, about a mile--then back; Along the way, we stopped to admire some of the hundreds of--I guess you could call them "memorial stones":

The Aloha, one of  my favorite restaurants (right at the ocean) was our choice and we both had delicious lunches. My Caesar  salad with chicken was fabulous, not to mention the ice cold IPA, and next time, I'm going to order my companion's blackened orange roughy fish with sides.    

After, we went shopping, first to Wal-Mart for coffee and a few other items, then to Green Thumb nursery, where I got a plant and pretty holder to give Vickie at her retirement party next week. I was dropped off after that, but not until we made tentative plans for tomorrow. 

Dinner with Keith, Kathie, and Cheryl, then back to my apartment to shower and wash my hair. Mary Ann will pick me up for T.O.P.S. this morning--hope I've lost, but I'm not too confident. 

Note: I had forgotten to post this before--St. Pat's Day card from the Tokyo Trio:

WEDNESDAY

After breakfast, I went outside to sit in the sun and read my book. Went back in at 10:00 to participate in the Balance With Jackie class and before I knew it, it was lunch time. Ate with Keith, as the others were nowhere around.

At 2:00, there was dime Bingo and after that, a Happy Hour with a trio. They were pretty good and did songs from singers in the thirties through the eighties, including Elvis and The Beatles:  

Dinner after and I sat with Allan and Beverly, as my usual group were at a table for four and I was the fifth. I actually enjoyed being with other residents for a change and had a good time.

During my nightly hour of T.V. watching, at 8:30 pm, Jeanne Dollard Painter called me, just to chat. It's been six months since John died and, of course, she's still getting acclimated. We had a good chat and will keep in touch.  

I'll be picked up at 10:00 am today and we'll go to the promenade by the ocean, then have lunch  at Aloha. Must go shopping after as I need coffee and also, a gift for Vickie. I'm looking forward to all that, of course. 

TUESDAY

After breakfast with Keith, I took a short nap, then participated in the Bone Builders exercise class at 10:30. This lasts more than an hour, until 11:45, after which it was time for lunch, which I had with Keith, Kathie, and Cheryl. Suzy came about 1:30 and we went to inspect the clubhouse. She thinks it's certainly adequate for a place for the planning committee to meet. As for the venue for the actual performance, probably not.

After that,  we went up to my place and talked for several hours about the event we have in mind. It would be based on several older people talking about their experiences. Suzy had in mind each person sharing information about the inspirational people in their lives, but I suggested other topics could be included, such as incidents that changed the speaker's life. I also suggested it be laid out as a play, with the players gathered together somewhere and having an in-depth conversation, asking each other about their lives. Maybe the setting could be a kind of anteroom to heaven OR maybe people in some kind of situation in which they're in danger. I guess it could be people in an assisted living facility, but I'm not so sure they would be as effective. Anyway, Suzy is going to talk to others interested in taking part and, happily, we'll have our planning meeting here. 

Suzy had barely left when I had to go down to the dining room, as it was called for 4:00. Beer and champagne were served, then appetizers. I had some drinks, then some of the appetizers and at that point, I was so full, I decided not to stay for actual dinner. Too bad, as it was Irish stew and shepherd's  pie, but I was actually uncomfortable, so said goodbye to my tablemates and left. I did take time beforehand to take some pictures, though; see below.

☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘

ST. PATRICK'S DAY AT THE ORCHARD 

This display filled one end of the dining room.

The bar--green beer, champagne, and soda--was at the other. 

Chef Michael

Server Du-Lannie

Server Sally

Server Bianca

My friend, Cheryl

Cheryl and "Director of Celebrations" (activities director), Mindy

To top it off, a bagpiper strolled in. 

☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘

MONDAY

The plan was that I'd be picked up at 8:15 and taken to Camarillo for the Echogram. That didn't happen, though; without going into detail, I'll just record that I won't get the procedure until March 31. 

Instead, we visited for a bit, then went t Wal-Mart, where I picked up a slew of staples--paper goods and so on--then went back to my apartment to put them away. From there, it was Two Trees for lunch--the patty melt on grilled rye, accompanied by potato salad was yum and I took half home. 

After that, it was an hour's nap, which I needed desperately, since I had hardly slept a wink. Why? Because I was so worried about the Echogram, which didn't happen anyway. 

I had completely forgotten I had accepted Susan's invitation for dinner last night with the Soaring Spirits gang at Stone Fire Grille. Luckily, she texted me about 3:00 to say she'd pick me up at 5:15. She got here early and I showed her my apartment, then we went off to dinner. With Renee and Grendall, there were only four of us, but we had a good, convivial time. 

I had some problem falling asleep last night, but finally did about 11:00 and slept through. Suzy will be here today to look at the clubhouse for a possible rehearsal place. I'm still not sure of the particulars of her new project, but will be interested to hear. 

SUNDAY

Breakfast with Keith, then put in white wash, and by the time I dealt with that and did this and that, it was time for lunch. Well, not quite--before that, I perused the offerings in the library--mostly "historical fiction"--UGH! As I mentioned to Keith, if it's fiction, it isn't historical. Anyway, I found a bio of Eva Marie ("Evita") Peron and took that. 

Ate with Cheryl, Kathie, and Keith; it was meat loaf and pretty good, then went out to first take a walk, then sit outside the Clubhouse to read. I started the Evita bio and was absorbed. I love "Don't Cry For Me, Argentina" and the Evita show, so no wonder. Came in about 1:30 and a half hour later, went downstairs to play Bingo...

...what in the HELL is it with  me? A little, white-haired old lady playing Bingo! I'm a stereotype, no question, and nobody will even take me seriously again. However, I don't really care, because I like it. Keith has asked why I don't join the Yahtzee  group where he plays. Years ago, my kids and I played, but if I'm not mistaken, you have to think with Yahtzee. I don't want to think, I just want to find B-10 and win a funny money dollar. 

BP last night: 108/62--"Normal"--YAY! However, this morning wasn't so good. We'll see what it is when I'm at the cardiologist's this morning. 

SATURDAY

Mary joined Keith and me for breakfast, after which I went back to my place and set up my meds for the week. (Usually, Ellen does this.) That sounds simple, but it took me almost an hour to get the morning and night meds in line, plus the OTC supplements. That done, I took a short nap, then went down to lunch. It was good--salmon with a maple glaze, plus rice and veggies--and all five of us ordered it. 

After, I went outside to sit in the lovely sun and read my book: Journalists And Their Shadows, by Patrick Lawrence.  It chronicles the ways big money, big military, and big power are the driving forces of the "news" we're fed by big media. What they feed us is shaped and slanted and distorted so thoroughly, a large percentage of the public doesn't believe most of what they're told and so they shouldn't. 

Went inside at 2:00 for "Dime Bingo." I still don't know why I go, but for some reason, I enjoy it. Keith goes, too, and sat with me.  Activity Director Mindy usually serves only water and soda, but this time, she make some chocolate-tinis, a chocolate/vodka drink. Hey, it was pretty good. I didn't win any games, but that was okay. 

Ellen called and we had a good chat; now she's off to her cruise on the Caribbean and I know she'll have a wonderful time. 

Dinner with the usuals. After, I called Doris G. back and we talked and talked for almost an hour. By the time we hung up, it was almost 7:00 and I got my jammies on and settled down to watch my hour of daily T.V. No plans for today and that's fine by me. 

FRIED-DAY

 And I am FRIED! The bad news: up 1.4 at home to 138.8; 1.1 at T.O.P.S. to an on-the-brink weight of 139.8--AAGH! A lousy hundred and forty is lurking right outside my door and I DON'T WANNA LET IT IN!  Okay, I'm going to set up and follow a regime.

There were only five of us at T.O.P.S., and we discussed when we meet at The Orchard on March 27. Everybody agreed it was okay to invite residents here to sit in; in fact, it seems possible some may join. I guess I'll volunteer to do the program, but I'll have to think one up.

Home before 10:00 and I went down to join Jackie's balance exercise class. Met Kathie at the elevator afterwards, and we had a good talk. We have a lot in common for various reasons, not all laudable ones.

I was waiting to go down to lunch when I got a phone call from a Bobbi Murphy.  I didn't recognize the name, but although I'd ordinarily send it to Voicemail, I answered. It turned out she was again asking me about some report that my twin, Betty, had died. See my blog entry for June 27, 2025 for info on this. 

At 1:00, I went down to the Multipurpose Room at 1:00 to see a video by this Irish group:   

 Being half Irish, I felt it spoke to (some of) my origins and I enjoyed it. I would have enjoyed it more if some of the old ladies in the audience hadn't talked through some of it. I felt like addressing them with the only Gaelic phrase I know: pugga ma hone. 

Later, I went down to Happy Hour, which consisted of just another sing-song video, but at least, also a Harvey Wallbanger. I sat with Mary, whom I saw, of course, later for dinner, along with Cheryl and Kathie.  

THURSDAY

Virtuous housekeeper that I am, before breakfast, I stripped the bed and took the sheets to the laundry room. After, I put them in the dryer, and after that, remade the bed, finishing just in time to go to the clubhouse and participate in the Bone Builders class. That goes a whole hour and seems more strenuous that the balance class, but I may continue.

Lunch with the gang, and Kathie told me how pleased she was to speak to Ellen about her weight-loss regime. After, I attended a presentation by a spokesperson from the Ventura Post Acute Skilled Nursing facility on Loma Vista Road. It was mildly interesting although I have no intention of checking in anytime soon. 

Went outside to sit in the shade by the clubhouse; returned Doris's call, then spoke to Ellen. Boy, it was hot--86degrees, so I didn't stay long. By that time, I was only about an hour before dinner, so I just played a little of my favorite game on this device. 

Dinner with Keith, Cheryl, and Mary. After, Cheryl and I went to the multipurpose room to join Activities Director Mindy for some mild exercises, mostly stretching. 

WEDNESDAY

After breakfast, I took a load to the laundry room, washed it, dried it, retrieved it, folded it, and put it in its proper place, as determined by me.  Ah--it gives me such a feeling of power--NOT!

In response to her invitation to patriciate in the planning of the new, "Senior Memories" presentation, I invited Suzy to come for lunch, then see the clubhouse. She accepted and will be here next Tuesday. I hope we can work something out around this. 

Lunch with Cheryl, Mary, and Kathie. The latter wants to try that weight loss drug my daughter, Ellen, has used to drop 63 pounds. Kathie asked if she could call Ellen to ask about it; I contacted El and yes, she'll be glad to talk to Kathie. 

Went to dime Bingo, although again I had only quarters. I won a game--big deal, as the pay off was something less than two dollars. However, it was sort of fun (the jury's still out on whether I enjoy it or not). Stayed for the "social hour," which included a "Family Feud" setup, which was also sort of fun. I decided not to stay for Trivia, but even so, by the time I got back to my apartment, it was 4:15 and close to going down to dinner....

...which I had with Kathie, Cheryl, Mary, and Keith. Main dish was chicken ala king, which was really good, and I topped it off with raspberry sherbet as a special treat.  

I again slept well--maybe this cutting caffeine thing is really working.

TUESDAY

Breakfast with K., as ever, and I had the cheese/mushroom/spinach omelet. It was less over-cooked this time, although still not as soft as I prefer.

Boarded the van for Von's at 10:00 and another resident, Julie, went, also. While I was in that shopping center, I walked down to CVS to replenish my B12 and D3. Back in front of Von's, Julie and I sat and waited for Rick to pick us up. He had to get Linda from her P.T. appointment first, so we had about a half-hour wait and chatted in the meantime. Julie is originally from the Philippines and she had worked for a family in Brentwood, of O.J. fame. She's seven years younger than I am, but seems older--very small, thin, and frail. When Rick arrived, I offered put one of her heavy bags on my walker and she accepted. Got home, gave back her bag, and said goodbye. 

Home, I got ready for lunch, but before I went downstairs, I got a call from Tia on the desk, asking if I had Julie's purse. Certainly not, so I told her to ask Rick and to call Von's. However, when I got off the elevator, Julie was standing there and more or less demanded her purse back. Of course, I didn't have it and it was upsetting to be accused. Happily, Tia came over while we were still at lunch to tell me the purse had been left in the van, so all was well. I went over to tell Julie I was glad it was found and she immediately apologized--over and over, with tears--for accusing me. I assured her again and again that it was okay, I wasn't angry, just glad it was found. Poor thing, I think she's not like most the of the people here--boring old Caucasians--and must be lonely. 

I was delighted to get this email from Suzy:

Dear Friends,  I am inspired and driven by the idea of creating a theater space for seniors to share their stories of their life experiences.  I am wondering if you would like to meet to discuss ideas and be part of the planning and implementing of this.  Sheila Murphy, a local writer and Senior Living Advisor, and  I could meet here in Ojai or a close locale on any evening but Thursday in the early evening.  Let me know your interest and availability.  I'd love your input.  

Much Love,

Suzy

Of course, I wrote back immediately to express my interest. I also offered to have the group meet here and invited Suzy to come to see the place, which she will next week. We'll see what evolves with this. 

Sat with the usual four for lunch--fajitas--then went upstairs to prepare for cleaner Dun-Lunnie; I didn't do much, just stashed a few things, so they're not in her way.  I like to vacate the apartment while she's here, so I went downstairs and played Bingo. I can never decide if I actually enjoy it or I think it's about as interesting as watching paint dry. 

Back to my little domicile, I put a few things away, then hung up my welcome tapestry:   

I want to add something at the top--maybe a small wreath.

Dinner with the usual; it was four-cheese ravioli and pretty good. Happily, I slept well, which I have for the past several nights.    

MONDAY

Breakfast and lunch with the usual crew.  In the afternoon, I went outside in the beautiful sunshine and made some calls. Called Muckie several times, but there was no answer. Katherine--the one with the darling little doggy--came out and sat down with me and we had a long chat.  I was interested--and concerned--to hear she also has some medical problems, which I won't mention here. 

After Katherine left, Rick came out and sat there while I called Nancy. We haven't been in touch lately and we talked and talked and talked. Nancy has some health issues, too, but we hope sometime soon her daughter-in-law will bring her over to have lunch with me.

Dinner with Keith, Cheryl, and Mary and we sat at a new table, next to the window. I like this spot much better than the old one, and hope to continue here. An innovation: I continue to bring my IPA at either lunch or dinner, but was mildly unhappy that by the time we actually get served the entree when I want to drink it, it has warmed and I like my drinks ice cold. I asked Samantha, the server, if I could put in the kitchen's fridge and as soon as I did, I realized that probably would not meet with management's approval. Samantha then pointed out the small, table-top fridge where snacks are kept to which residents can help themselves at any time. Great idea, I put my IPA in and retreived it when we were serves and it was yummy.

I signed up to go to Von's this morning; just have a few staples to get. May go to CVS, too. Called Lorraine and we chatted;  one of these days, she's like to visit, too.

Happy day, I slept well and didn't get up until the alarm went off at 6:15. 

SUNDAY

When I got up, I saw a text from Matt, Muckie's son, telling me she had been in the hospital and was now in rehab. He said she still has her phone and I could call her, which I will today.

And yesterday was a good one. The Access Van picked me up at 9:30 and whisked me to Ellen's. We hung out for a bit and I took a nap while she meditated, then did her face. We sat on the porch (the "catio" in the lovely warmth until we left for Carpentaria. We were a little early, but niece Carolyn and her husband, Dana, came soon after, as did nephew Steve. We had a great time catching up and enjoying lunch together; there's nothing like family. I wish we had remembered to take a picture, but nobody did. However, I know I'll see Carolyn again before too long and I also want to visit Betty.

We said goodbye and got back to my place about 3:00. Ellen put my RX meds together while I assembled the supplements. She's leaving for her two-week cruise next Sunday and (sob!), I won't see until she gets back. 

Dinner with Keith, Kathie, and Mary (salmon burger, which was pretty good), then I went back upstairs to unwind and watch my ninety minutes of T.V.  Unfortunately, I was again very wakeful; I'll definitely take a nap after breakfast. 

SATURDAY

Breakfast with Keith and decaf, followed by an hour's nap--I think the decaf did me in, but I'm determined to follow that regime. Didn't do much but play my Royale Match game after, then went down for lunch with Kathie, Cheryl, and Mary. I then sat outside for a bit, but although it was sunny and warm,  it was too windy for my taste, and I went in.

Called the Access Van to take me to Ojai today, then Ellen to check if I'm supposed to take my endocrinologist RX today. Yes, I am, and I will. 

My old friend, Doris G., called once again and we chatted--in truth, as usual, she talked and I listened--but it was enjoyable. 

I went down to play dime bingo, although all I had were quarters. I actually won a round, which netted me a big dollar and a half--WOW!  After, I stay to hear a visiting piano player, who was absolutely fabulous. He'll be back and I can't wait to hear him again.

The nurse came, checked my vitals, and was satisfied with my general condition. He took my BP and I was thrilled that his result was 140/70. Good grief, could that be the result of skipping one cup of regular coffee? Hope so. 

Dinner with Keith, Cheryl, and Mary, and we had some good talk. As I regularly do, I went back up to my place before dessert and settled in for the night. 

Mike video-called me about 7:00 and we had a nice chat. He's going to London next week for business and Vivian is going shortly to check out her new school, London College University. 

Note: Much as I like Daylight Savings Time and more light in the day, actually changing the time throws me off. Now it's 6:50 am and yesterday, it was 5:50--or something. Oh, well, I'll adjust. 

FRIDAY

At home, I gained a silly .04 to 137.4 and at T.O.P.S, I actually lost a whopping .02 to 138.7. I'm not at all happy with being so far (seven or eight pounds) out of my comfort zone and I resolve to do better.

Mary Ann picked me up for the meeting, then took me home while leader Lennie followed us so she could see how to get there. Why? Because we're going to be here for our March 27th meeting. We talked about what we'd do and decided we'd meet here at 8:30--I'm going to reserve the clubhouse--and each would bring what Lennie called "a little snack" for a potluck breakfast. I'll ask Chef Michael if he could provide a coffee pot OR--maybe a better idea--both Lennie and I have single serve coffee machines, so instead, we could just bring them; might be easier. On my way out, I dropped off my maintenance request at the front desk. Maintenance guy, Joe, reattached my kitchenette faucet, so that's okay. 

Lunch with Kathie and Mary, then a visitor named Katherine who knows Kathie, joined  us. Speaking of Katherines, the one from So-Fi found me and I gave the info on the neurologists she had wanted. After, I took and hour's nap, then went down to a singalong in the Multipurpose room. That was reasonably okay, although the songs were the old, old ones, such as Yankee Doodle Dandy and My Wild Irish Rose. Couldn't they have at least picked some Elvis and Beatles material? 

Dinner was chili and corn bread, which was pretty good; I ate with Keith, Cheryl and Mary. Ellen called and we discussed our excursion tomorrow for lunch in Carpentaria with niece Carolyn and possibly, Craig and nephew Steve.  I asked El to buy a card for me, plus some other stuff. Must remember to call the Access Van to get to El's--she'll take me home after. I'm going to ask Carolyn if she wants this companion picture to the large ones over my sofa; about four by two feet, it's Atlantic City in past days: 

THURSDAY

A somewhat slow day. After breakfast with Keith, I took my half-hour nap, then spent time productively (ha!) playing my favorite laptop game. Did little else until lunch...

...when I sat with Kathie, Mary, and Bee (Keith was at the dentist). We talked about our childhoods; Bee seems to have an odd background--in fact, she's pretty odd herself. However, it was fairly interesting, but I sometimes wonder if I should look for other meal companions. I might occasionally sit elsewhere, just to get to know others. 

Jay, the P.T., came at 2:30, as scheduled, and put me through my paces. Bridget, the head P.T., will come today at 10:30 and some day next week, I'll be traveling to Second Wave Physical Therapy. 

Went to Trivia at 3:30, but it was a bore. Before that, I saw part of the story of St. Patrick, which was okay. Mindy put up this throw, which may or may not be hers: 

Went from there to dinner and sat with Keith, Kathie, Mary, and Cheryl. Main dish was chicken with pasta and sauce, which was pretty good.

Back at my place, I showered and washed my hair. Ellen called to tell me the other P.T., Brittany, wanted to come today at 10:30. I don't know why she would come the day after Jay did, but I agreed. I hope and assume I'll be home from T.O.P.S. by then, but if not, she'll have to wait.  

WEDNESDAY

Mary joined Keith and me for breakfast; she was agitated because she had to go to the DMV to get an official ID. Once upstairs, I took a nap, then fooled around with this and that. Activities Director came to my door to ask if I could take the van a little earlier, as she had others to drop off. Sure, why not, so I got ready and went out to climb aboard. Mary was on, too, and when I told her she should have various proofs of age, address, and so on, she seemed to discount that. However, later, when Mindy mentioned it, Mary went back to her apartment and got them.

Got to Hill Street Cafe a little early and waited for Erica. The restaurant has an "Easter tree," fer cryin' out loud, and I couldn't resist taking a pic:                            

                                                            

Erica got there shortly after I did and we preceded to have a wonderful reunion. She's younger than my children (53), but we have a close rapport and I've always liked and admired her. She studied acting and directing, but was employed in finance for many years. Recently, she branched out on her own as a financial advisor, especially for women contemplating divorce. I asked her to send me info on her business and I'll make it known to those here. 

Erica took me home and shortly after, I joined a group of about fifteen in the multipurpose room for dime bingo. It was actually fun, in a quirky kind of way; Keith was there and lent me four dimes after I ran out; paid him back at dinner. 

I had asked Mindy if any more festive "theme" lunch or dinners were planned and she said there would be an Irish one near St. Patty's day. I mentioned the fact that I make "Molloy's Irish Creme" and she asked for the recipe. I gave her a copy and I think she's planning to include it in that dinner.

Ellen called to tell me that Jay, the P.T., will be coming today at 2:30, I guess to judge my progress or something. I also have appointments at Second Wave Physical Therapy in a few weeks.

Dinner with Keith, Mary, and Cheryl and it was a really good large salad with walnuts, salmon, and a lot of other ingredients I like, plus strawberry dressing.  As I told Mindy, I think the major meal selections are improving; lately, there have been innovations and most are very good.  

TUESDAY

After breakfast--with Keith, of course--I stripped the bed and took the sheets to the laundry room. While they were washing, then drying, I puttered around with this and that. 

Got a call from Susan, of Soaring Spirits, that she and her parents were coming in at 10:00 to see The Orchard as a possible place for them. I told her about the two thousand dollar "finders fee," which I would halve with them; she was interested and said they'd mention it to Tiffany. It seems like long shot, but we'll see.

Stopped in the office to ask if 1.) I had authorized my rent to be automatically paid and 2.) if I could reserve the clubhouse or the private room for my T.O.P.S. group on March 27. Yes and yes and I'll ask the group how they want to do this: just weigh in and have a meeting or do that and include breakfast, too.

Joseph came to install the new mechanism for the heat lamp in the bathroom and we had a fun talk about what he prefers to be called--"Joseph," "Joe," " Joey," "Jose," or "Hey You"; think I'll chose the last one. 😂

I had meant to go to the Bone Builders class at 10:30 yesterday, but what with the bed and all, I didn't get there. Now I'm determined to attend Jackie's Balance class today at 10:00 and I hope be a regular at the sessions three times a week.

Lunch with the girls--Kathie, Mary, and Cheryl; we didn't see Keith, so maybe he ate out. After, I went outside and took a short walk. Didn't stay long because it had gotten a little too breezy and cool. Went back up to water my porch/patio flowers and make a baked (in the microwave) apple to eat later. 

I actually went downstairs to participate in first, bingo, then trivia. Both were total bores and I probably will not go again. What I want to do is attend the balance classes and Bone Builders. Hope I can keep that resolve.

Dinner with Keith, Mary, and Cheryl and it was enjoyable.  

MONDAY AND A SIGH OF RELIEF

Breakfast with good ol' Keith (he's probably a decade or more younger than I am), then I got ready for Ellen's arrival. She got here about 8:45 and we drove off for my 9:30 neurologist appointment at 9:30 in Oxnard. Got there early enough so we took a little walk outside the complex first, then went in to wait for Dr. Taylor...

...and wait...and wait. At about 945, we were told the doc had an emergency in Santa Barbara (he's on the staff there, too) and could we come back at 11:00? Okay, so we took another walk, then sat outside in the sun for a time, then went back in. By the time, Dr. T. arrived, it was close to noon. However, all was forgiven when we heard the good news: the aneurysm didn't seem a cause for concern. He told us to get another test (I can't remember what kind, but Ellen knows) in six months to a year; in the meantime, continue to address the blood pressure with an extra dose of Ramipril. 

Breathing sighs of relief, Ellen and I went to The Lazy Dog for lunch--yummy yum--then drove to CVS to get the Ramipril. However, the pharmacy was closed for lunch, so El came back to my place to set up my pills for the week, then drove back to CVS to pick up the meds; finally, she dropped them off to me.

I put in a load of wash in the laundry room, then went downstairs to request the van for tomorrow, when I'll go to the Hill Street Cafe to meet Erica for lunch. 

Dinner with Kathie, Cheryl, and Mary--Keith sat elsewhere--and we had a good time. After, I retreived my wash from the laundry, folded and put it away, then settled in for the night. 

SUNDAY

Breakfast with Keith and after, I did indeed, take a nap. Katherine picked me up at 11:45 and off we went to Oxnard. She suggested we lunch at Tradewinds, which is near the Elite Theatre and that's where we went. It was pretty crowded and we had to wait a bit, but that was okay. I had Taquitos and an IPA, which were good.

We got to the theatre in plenty of time for the 2:00 pm start. The Elite is a small, somewhat makeshift theatre which, unfortunately, has lost its lease and is looking for a new site. I've been there before and, although it's not uncomfortable, it's hardly Broadway level: 

Well, it's sideways and for some reason, I can't right it, so it'll have to stay. 

The show was a little sappy, but fun to see and my pal, Suzy, was great--full of energy and bounce, as she is in real life.  We greeted her after and, as she does, she gave me a big hug while calling me "baby girl!" I get a kick out of that.

Katherine dropped me off in time for dinner after a fun day. She's considerably younger than I am, but I think we have a lot in common. She's bright, well-spoken, and has a sense of humor, all attributes that appeal to me. I went directly into the dining room and had dinner with Keith and Kathie. It was pretty good--New England clam chowder with grilled parmesan bread.  

When I got to my apartment, I looked at my calendar and realized I had told people I had an echogram today, but actually that's on the sixteenth. This morning, I see Dr. Robert Taylor (no, he's not in the movies), who's a neurosurgeon, and I'm nervous about it. Gawd, I'm sick of doctors. 

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This was in my email and brought back memories. It's a character named Arnelle, a hair dresser, and me, playing Clairee, the widow of the town mayor, in Steel Magnolias. Incredibly, this was with LETCO (Little Egg Theatre Company) sixteen years ago--hard to believe.

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SATURDAY

A quiet day, but not unpleasant. Kathie came down for breakfast with Keith and me, after which I was annoyed myself by taking a nap. Not sure why, but I just felt sleepy. By lunchtime, I was perkier and the chicken coq au vin was really good. After, I spent time on minor little chores, but mostly playing games on the laptop. 

Katherine called and we decided she' d pick me up at noon today; we'll go to lunch, then attend the show at the Elite Theatre in Oxnard. Can't wait to see Suzy on stage again.

At 2:30 or so, I went outside, taking a can of the non-alcoholic IPAs niece Carolyn had brought me, along with my book, War Made Invisible, by one of my favorite pro-peace activists, Norman Solomon. I sat in the lovely sunshine, read, and enjoyed it. 

It was 4:00 by the time I went home and shortly, time for dinner. Cheryl is back from Mexico and sat with Keith and me. She has a condo in Rosarita there and has it up for sale, so wanted to oversee a few things and talk to her relator; also has a rental property in Oregon. It was fun to talk to her. Kathie didn't show, nor did Mary.

Had a somewhat restless sleep, but it wasn't bad; got up at 5:15. I'm thinking I might take a short nap after breakfast--maybe yes, maybe no.