SUNDAY

 Did my usual nothing much in the morning. Received a call from my former neighbor, Lorraine, and we chatted. One of these days, I'll have her over.

Lunch with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. The other Kathie had hailed me before hand to tell me Bingo would be going on at 2:00, although it wasn't on the schedule. Did I want to attend? Ha--didn't have to ask me twice.

Went downstairs at the appointed time and enjoyed dime Bingo., winning two. Right after, at 3:00, we had Yatzee, which I played with volunteer Cindy, Keith, Mary, and Pat, with Reggie watching from the sidelines.

By the time we finished, it was almost dinnertime, so I stayed downstairs. Sat with Keith, Paula, andyy Ray and had a good chicken salad; asked for and received a bagel with salmon to take home for a snack. 

Called Ellen about my problem with the mouse and keyboard and also, my knee. She's going to call Primary Medical about the latter and I'm going to change the battery on the former,

SATURDAY

 A slow morning with just my usual Block Champ, then hour nap. Sat down for lunch with Kathie and Paula, then Ray joined us. I get a kick out of him, but Kathie dislikes him--he does have a tendency to never shut up--but LaVerne didn't show, so the fourth chair was empty.

Back at my apartment, I stopped at the little store for T. paper and small bags; I really didn't need or want anything else they stock. At 2:00, I went down to quarter Bingo--won two and a jackpost of almost ten dollars. Okay, you don't get rich, but I enjoy it.

Shortly after Bingo, it was time for dinner. Sat with Paula and Mary T. The latter is the flower arranger and greeting card maker who always strikes me as having a sadness around her. It was interesting to hear, though, that her husband, who died just a few  years ago, had been a fundamentalist Baptist minister. They had lived in nine or ten different states, moving around a lot, as--I guess--conditions demanded.

We said goodbye, then I chatted a bit with Kathie and Mary G. Back in my place, I played Block Champ, but abour 7:00, my conscience prompted me to get some excerise, so I went to the exercise room (just two rooms down from my apartment) and did twenty minutes on the stationary bike. 

Darn, my mouse has stopped working and I don't like using the attached keyboard. Darn two, I slept poorly, but guess I'll live through it.

 

FRIDAY

 Again, I skipped T.O.P.S. because of the continuing discomfort in the knee. If it isn't noticably improved by Monday, I'm going to call Primary Medical again. I weighed myself at home, but wearing only my bedclothes and not the one I wear to get weighed in. I registered at 141.8, a loss of 1.2, but again, since I wasn't wearing what I do every week, not really accurate. It's certainly too much, but I'll work on it.  

Lunched with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. Entree was pork rosst, mashed potatoes and gravy, and green beans, the perfect meal for a cold and snowy evening. Oh, but wait--this was lunch, it's August twenty-eighth, and 91 degrees outside. So I ordered a hot dog, which was, as always, good.

At 2:00, I went downstairs to the gathering for new residents, of which there were five--four women and one man. They were seated at a table in the front and "interviewed" by Mindy. I was interested to hear that new resident, Dottie, had ancestors who lived in a house in Connecticut, where she was born, which had a "safe place" for escapted slaves. 

At 3:00, Happy Hour started in the same place. The singer, Kevin Gillmond, was terrific and he brought his girlfriend, who is half Caucasion and half Japanese. I talked to them after and found they had met in Osaka and are now engaged. It was so enjoyable and so was the Chardonay I sipped during it.

Went back to my place before ascending again for dinner. I sat with Denise and Paula, then Keith joined us and we had some pleasant conversation. Chicken for dinner, which was pretty good, but the no-sugar-added ice cream is still nowhere to be found. 

Mike Messaged/Facetimed me at 7:30 and we had our usual weekend chat. Saw Violet for a minute or two and he'll be taking her to the Savannah College of Art in Design (SCAD) in Georgia in two weeks. I think her mother, Paula, will be going, too. 

THURSDAY

 I went downstairs shortly before 11:00 to find Erica already there. We hugged and then I saw that Becky had also come. Becky had worked with Erick and me in Fractured Actors and just came to learn some financial tricks. About fifteen people came and they seemed to receive Erica's presentation with interest. Ellen came about 11:15 and also enjoyed it.  After, Erica spoke with Mindy and they decided she'd come periodically if anyone wanted to consult her on financial matters, especially as they relate to retiirement. El took this picture of Erica during her talk: 

Ellen, Erica, and I then went to The Little Lion for lunch and had a great time. I had a delicious hamburger alone with a big salad, which I took home. After, we said goodbye to Erica and El and I went to Walmart to stock up on various. When we came to The Orchard, we saw there was a Brazil-themed celebration in the multi-purpose room, so I stayed to watch it and El took my purchases upstairs.  

Brother Larry called and we had a good talk. He's doing okay at 94, but is slowing down a bit. We  chatted for a few, then said goodbye.

Shortly, it was time to go down for dinner; I did and sat with Denise and Paula. I like them both and we had a good time. Dinner was cod and sides, which was okay--I like seafood--but not anything special.

WEDNESDAY

My knee may be somewhat better, but it still isn't completely okay. I'll follow the N.P.'s advice to use heat and keep taking the pain-killer/anti-inflamatory. I mentioned at lunch that I didn't have a heating pad and my friend, Paula, immediately offered to lend me hers. I accepted with pleasure and will use it soon.

Stripped the bed and took the sheets to the laundry room. Before lunch, I transferred them to the dryer, and retreived them after lunch. I ate with Paula, Denise, LaVerne, and Mary; we had chicken corden bleu, which was very tasty. Denise mentioned that she wanted to put (artifitional) flowers on the top of her cabinets, so I told her I'd give her some of those I had just bought and decided against. I did so, kept some, but was glad somebody could use some of the others.

At three, I went down to the multi-purpose room to attend the Social Hour for new residents. To my surprise, a dime Bingo was going on instead. I quesitoned Mindy about it and found she had announced the change, but I hadn't heard it. I wish she wouldn't do this OR that the schedule would be posted on-line. All right, not all the residents use the Internet, but the schedule could still be printed. So I attended Bingo, of course, borrowed dimes from Mindy, paid them back, won two games, and had a Margarita.  

Had dinner with Trudie and Carl and enjoyed it. We were amused that on the menu, it said "Presto Pasta." (Would the server bring it  with a "Viola!" gesture?) It was just a misprint and should have been "pesto," of course. Actually, it was pretty good. 

I invited Ellen to come today to my friend, Erica's, talk on retirement planning and she will. After, we'll go to lunch and maybe I'll invite Erica. Here's the flyer Mindy sent out about her: 

Showered and washed my hair, then settled in to watch a bio on Queen Elizabeth. Slept well and am looking forward to seeing my old (well, she's 60 or so) colleague from Fractured Actors. Here are Erica and me on stage when we appeared together in Welcome  Home four years ago. She's standing second from left on my right, pouring a bottle of champagne to toast the arrival of the new baby, my granddaughter: 

TUESDAY

I debated washing my hair during my shower in the morning, but decided I'd better not, considering my knee. Sharon called to ask how I was doing and we chatted for fifteen or so.  

Went down to dime Bingo at 2:00, but had time for only two games before I had to go next door to Primary Medical. I saw the nurse practioner, Sharon, whom I liked a lot. She agreed that the knee problem was arthritis and that I should continue the Biofreeze (which I just received from Amazon). She said if it worsened or continued, she'd have me see a doctor. Okay, I'm satisfied.

Got back in time to see the Kevin (don't remember his last name), a fabulous musician and singer, who plays the violin with three different symphanies in the ares, but treated us to Elvis and Credence Clearwater pieces and similar ones. Our server, Blanca, came in and did an improptu dance, then was joined by resident Ada:

After the show, I couldn't resist taking a picture of Tom, who wears the most hilarious tee-shirts:

"If you don't want a sarcastic answer, don't ask stupid questons."

Tom is a great guy, who cares for his wife, Cherry, who's afflicted with both physical and, it seems, cognitive problems.

Anyway, the show was terrific and I was happy to hear Kevin will be back in November. I went from there to dinner and sat with LaVerne, Paula, and Mary T.; Kathie was out with her daughter. 

This morning, Wednesday, my knee feels a little better--I think--and I'm now going to apply the BioFreeze and I may try the knee wrap Ellen lent me. 

MONDAY

Somewhat of a draggy day. We had been notifed the annual fire sprinkler inspection would be done between 8 am and 3 pm. Maintenance guy, Joe, and the inspector came at 10:00 and the inspection took about three minutes.

Because my knee is still somewhat of a problem, I called Primary Medication and will see the nurse practioner today at 3:00. Called Ellen to tell her and we also discussed my birthday party. I'd rather not even aknowledge it--nobody wants to be ninety unless they're a hundred--but suggested I want mostly just family there. She asked if I wanted to have my friends here come here to another party and yes, I do, and we'll plan that.  She also discussed power of attorney for her and another family member. Sure, fine by me. I hear people talk about their children trying to get their money and it shocks and amazes me. I have complete faith and confidence in my children and trust them with anything I have, including my money and my life. 

Had lunch with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. I was surprised Kathie was at our old table, as she had said she was sitting elsewhere for a week and actually, was gone for only one day. Anyway, it was good to have her there. I hope she signs up to see Erica on financial matters, as she's one who can use expert advice. 

Put in a color wash about 3:00, put it the dryer before dinner and retreived it after.  I saw neither Kathie nor Paula in the dining room, so sat with LaVerne. She's ninety-four, but mentally sound and had been a para-legal. We had a good talk. 

Other that all that, nuthin' much going on. 

SUNDAY: GAME DAY

 Slept okay, but the knee still is not completely better; put more Biofreeze on it. I just more or less hung out until lunchtime, when I went downstairs for lunch. Sat with Joyce and Berta and enjoyed talking to the former. She and I both play Bingo and it was scheduled for 2:00.  Back at my place, I continued to indulge my cockamamie fixation of Block Champ until it was time to go to The Big Game at 2:00.

That was dime Bingo, of course, and we played until 3:45. I won two and collected seven dollars and change. After that, guess what? Volunteer Cindy (an area resident) came in for Yahtsee and I decided to go with that, too. Keith, Mary, and Pat joined us as, incredibly, I won the first game. That was because I rolled Yatzee (five of a kind), which is good for fifty points. I didn't win the second or third game, but that was okay. 

Because our regular table members had decided to follow Kathie's lead and sit with others for the week, I saw Denise and we sat together. We had a fine time and I gave her a flyer about my friend, Erica, coming as a financial planner on Thursday. I hope she gets a good turnout. Paula sat at a nearby table and before she left, came over to say, "I miss you." I responded, "I miss you, too," and we'll look for each other for meals. 

After dinner, I invited Denise in to show her the bus pass I have; she wants to get rid of her car and start taking other transportation. After that, she had me over to see her place, which is right down the hall from me. This is also a one-bedroom, but different from mine. I have a good-sized first room and off that, an adequate bedroom and bath. Denise's apartment is considerably smaller and has some awkward angles in kitchenette, living room, and bedroom. 

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My friend, Erica, is coming on Thursday and I hope she gets a good turnout. Particularly Kathie and her daughter, should go, as Kathie has some knotty financial issues, thanks to her dearly departed husband's business problems. Erica and I were members of Fractured Actors and appeared in several plays together, beginning with Welcome Home years ago.

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SATURDAY

 My knee was somewhat better, although still sore. Got up somewhat late, got my coffee, and did my usual morning this and that, then lay down for a nap. I always set the alarm for an hour, which I did, but foolishly, I turned it off and fell back to sleep. Didn't wake up until 12:30--OOPS! 

I rushed down to the dining room and Kathie, Paula, LaVerne, and Denise made room for me. They twitted me about sleeping through lunch, but of course, jokingly and I enjoyed it. Kathie was kind enough to bring me a container of Biofreeze for my knee and as soon as I got home, I applied it. I think it helped; in any event, the arthrtis seems less intense.

Went to quarter Bingo at 2:00 and won a game for a big seven dollar jackpot. After the first few, we reverted to dimes, but I enjoyed it; the prize money doesnt' even interest me that much. 

Had dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. Kathie said she'd be sitting with others today and for a week and I think it's a good idea for all of us to do that. I like being with Trudie and Carl, for instance, also with David and Lisa, so I'll be expanding my sitting habits, too. 

FRIDAY

I think I forgot to mention it before, but I called Cheryl on Thursday evening to tell her I wouldn't be going to T.O.P.S. My knee is still bothring me, although it's better than it was, and I decided against it. Later, Sharon called me to give me a report on the meeting. Only Lennie, Lanie, Cheryl, and she were there yesterday and it sounded as if I didn't miss much except Forster, the guest, but I've heard him before. 

Ellen came at 12:30 and we went first to Wood Rance for their terrific BBQ chicken salad. I ordered only water to drink--I'm dropping the IPA consumption 'way down--and took half the salad and three of their wonderful garlic rolls home. From there, we went to the UPS store, where Ellen sent somthing back she had ordered. Nearby it Dollar Tree and we both got a few little items. After that, it was CVS, the store from hell to get my medication which, once again, was the wrong dosage. We found that the correct one, 2.5 mg, would be available in seven days. Don't ask me why, I don't know and don't care. We then stopped at the post office branch near here, and Ellen went in to send my things and were finally finished my errands.

El came in after and I gave her a gift I had seen on Instagram and couldn't resist getting for her. It's Maj-jong pasta--the pasta shaped in all kinds of game tokens. Since she plays that with friends, she was delighted and I was pleased. I had also sent for pasta in pickleball shapes, which I'm giving to another family member.

We didn't get home until 4:30 and it was soon time to go down to dinner. I ate with Paula, Denise, and Keith; neither Kathie nor LaVerne showed, but I'm sure I'll see them today. Back in my apartment at 6:30, I settled in to play Block Champ and put some of my day's purchases away.  Knee is still bothering me, but I think less than before. 

THURSDAY

My knee was still hurting, however, I managed to get a large white wash to the laundry room and between awaking and lunch, wash, dry, and fold, and put it away.

Lunched with Kathie, Paula, and Bea, a congenial group. I mentioned that Valtaren had no effect on the knee and Kathie suggested BioFreeze, which I may try next. After lunch, I took a short nap, then started this entry, the got ready for Elika and a manicure at 3:45. Went upstairs to the salon and settled in to have Elika do my nails and catch up with her doings. I like her so much and have met one of her two daughters and her son, and her Bengal cat. Anyway, I picked my color, she expertly painted them, we chatted and laughed, and it was good.

Finished in time for dinner.  I stopped at my place to get my lemon chunks, then went downstairs.  Ate with LaVerne and Keith; Katie didn't show and Paula sat with others. That was okay, as Keith and I discussed the Orient. He's been to Singapore, Japan, and Thailand, as I have, and we both enjoyed our visits.

My knee bothering me, I called Ellen to tell her about it and we agreed I'll call Primary Medical today and see if I should get an x-ray. She'll come over, also, although she has line dancing later and will have to leave by 3:30, but that's okay.  

Now, on Friday, I just got up and found that my knee is considerably better. I'm debating whether to call the doc (P.A., that is) today or just wait and see if it improves more.  

WEDNESDAY

 Went to balance class at 10:00; leader Jackie is still away, but resident Kathy led the group. Hung out after that, then had lunch with Kathie, LaVerne, Paula, and Denise, five of us at a table for four, but it was fun. 

Kathie asked me to call her daughter, Stacy, who had the idea of offering her services to residents for any small chores and errands they might need. I called her at we had a talk. She seems a bright and well-spoken young woman (well, not so young, she's a grandmother) and I gave her my opinion on her ideas.

Went to get my BP measured at 1:00. I got a satisfactory 133/85 (66), which for me, is good. Jasmine used my own BP machine and now I'm beginning to think I just don't do it right--or something.

Back to the multi-purpose room for dime Bingo and I won two games. Also, Mindy had a raffle and I won twice. However, the "prizes" were contraptions that I guess are supposed to go on a walker and they're labeled "Ventura Post Acute." I think I'll donate them to GoodWill.

Had dinner with LaVerne, Paula, Denise, and Keith (we again added a chair to the square, four-person table) and we enjoyed each other's company. Home after, I put the arthritis medication on my knee, which has been bothering me for several days. Unfortunately, it didn't seem to help and I may have to call the doctor. I've been using the walker even in my apartment because of the knee.  

Slept okay, but the knee is still bothering me. 

TUESDAY

Followed my usual morning routine, then went to Bone Builders at 10:15. Lunch after and I sat with Kathie, Paula, and Denise; LaVerne was at another table. At 2:00, I went to dime Bingo and won one. Saved a place for my friend, Anita, and she won, too. That lasted until 3:45, after which Trivia is usually scheduled, but Trudie, who ususally runs the game, just had a biopsy and the news isn't good. I'm writing this on Tuesday afternoon and I hope to see Trudie at dinner...

...I did and sat with her and Carol.  She was open about the biopsy of her lung, although she hasn't gotten the results yet. She said she had had terrible pain from the "needle biopsy" injected thorugh her back. Doc said to take Tylenol--she did and it helped. I hope the news will be better than she's afraid it will be, but she's not optomistic. 

Before being in for the night, I did twenty minutes on the stationary bike and was glad I did.  Slept well, but my arthritic knee is still bothering me, though maybe not as much as  it did. I haven't yet applied the medication I sent for, but will today. 

MONDAY

I didn't sleep well and got up to play Block Champ on the laptop for a time. Got up at 6:30, had my coffee, followed my morning routines, dressed, and took an hour nap; that's also getting to be routine, for better or worse.

Went to balance class at 10:00. Leader Jackie is sitll away and Kathie (not the one with whom I usually eat) led the group. Kathie is an R.N. and one of my favorite people here. I'm not sure how long she's lived here, certainly longer than my seven months, but I was interested to hear she also suffers from migraiines, but doesn't get the aura, as the other Kathie does. After, I stopped at the desk to see if Thea had gotten my request to print out the aura info, but she hadn't seen it yet.

Went down to lunch and saw that two people were sitting at our usual table with LaVerne. I could have joined them, but didn't want to be subjected to J.'s non-stop talk and R.'s silence, so told LaVerne I'd see her later. Sat with David and Lisa, whom I like a lot--unfortunately, the fourth chair was taken by Ada. Ada is the absolute champion talker of The Orchard, hands down and believe me, there are plenty of also-rans. She never shut up about her marriages, her seeminly psychotic mother, how her friend won't let her drive (no, I didn't understand that, either), and so on and on. I couldn't wait to leave and did as soon as I finished my lunch. 

Soaring Sprits dinner is usually the third Monday of the month, but I hadn't heard from Susan and decided to skip, anyway. Texted Susan to tell her and she wrote back that she wasn't going, either, as her father, who's in his nineties, had had a bad fall. I know she's very concerned and and is with her parents in San Diego. 

Before dinner, I spent seventeen minutes on the bike (stationary) and want to continue doing that daily.  I was pleased to eat with my usual dinner companions: Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. Keith sat at another table, but that was okay. I skipped the BBQ pork in favor of a chicken Caesar salad, which is very good and I've had often.  

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I came across this reel on the Dionne Quintuplets and am saving it here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAXqRQlowxs

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SUNDAY

Slept well, I'm happy to say, and got up at 6:30. Hung out in the morning, took my now-daily early nap, then went down for lunch with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. It was meat loaf, but I opted for a bagel with salmon instead; actually, I asked for two so I can eat one as a snack in the evening. Unfortunately, Kathie suffers from migraine headaches and has since she was 8 years old. She gets "auras" along with them, which means her vision is affected oddly. She's scheduled for an MRI this week; I hope she gets some answers. I told her I'd look up the aura phenomena information, did so, and asked Thea to print it, as my printer is still misbehaving.  

I then got my purse and sunglasses and took off on the city bus for CVS and Von's. When I got to the pharmacy at CVS to pick up my Equis, I discovered 5 mg had been sent. However, the doctor had cut it in half last time--I informed the pharmacist of this and she said she'd call my doctor and ask about it. That's okay, because I still have plenty of the last RX. At Von's I got cottage cheese, salt, and a few other items, then bused home. I'm glad I ventured out. 

As often happens, neither Kathie nor LaVerne came down to dinner; Paula wasn't in evidence, either, so I sat with David and Lisa, then Bea joined us. I enjoyed it--David is an attorney and has a good sense of humor. As we chatted, Bea mentioned that her given name is with the French spelling, Beatrix; she then casually added that she's distantly related to the Dionne Quintuplets. Wow, what a revelation! Of course, I had to tell her of my interest in, and my presentations on, the quints, as well as my collection of books and artifacts on them. Bea said she thought her mother's brother--or sister--was married to one of the quints' siblings. 

No plans for today, in fact, the rest of the week and that's good, not bad. 

SATURDAY

 I'm relieved that my knee is much better; even so, I'm glad I ordered the arthritis ointment, which arrived today.  Took a color wash to the laundry room and popped it in; transferred my clothes to the dryer before lunch.

Lunched with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula, then went back to get my clothes. Did this and that, then went downstairs at 2:00 for quarter Bingo. Incredibly, I won four times! However, Linda also got Bingo and I told Mindy to give her the winnings; I was actually embarassed to have won four in a row.

After Bingo, I did fifteen minutes on the stationary bike, then geared up for dinner. Had that with the same companians as for lunch. I skipped the roast beef salad in favor of the chicken Caesar salad and it was very good. 

Mike Messaged me to ask if I was available for a call and of course, I was. We facetimed and had a nice talk; I also said hello to Violet. Mike and his ex, Paula, will be taking Violet to the U.S. on September 9 when she starts at the Savannah College of Art and Design. I wish he/they could come here on the way back, but we'll see. Mike said his "friend" (hint, hint 💕). Monica,  sent greetings to me, too. 

Nothing scheduled for today and I'm considering taking the bus to Von's for a few small items.

FRIDAY

Mary Ann picked me up at 8:15 for T.O.P.S. and I met with Disaster: I was up 1.2 at home to 143 and up 1.4 at T.O.P.S. TO 144.2. I must buckle down now and reverse this trend.

Unfortunately, more bad news is that the arthritis in my left knee has started acting up again. It usually doesn't bother me, but suddenly became active and it hurts to walk. Mary Ann had mentioned a rub-on medication called Voltaran and I sent for that via Amazon. 

Napped before lunch, then went downstairs and on the way, I ran into Keith and his friend, Bob, who was visiting and to whom K. introduced me. Sat down to eat with LaVerne and Paula. L. said Kathie had called her to say she had a doctor's appointment, so wouldn't be in until dinner. Keith joined us and I told him about the Liberace bio on Prime and he was interested.

Mindy stopped me and asked if I wanted to be on a "team" to play some kind of word game she had  just instituted. However, I guess I'm not a team player because that didn't appeal to me; I do my three daily puzzles and also Block Champ, but don't want to play with anyone else. 

Went down to see the Dynamic Duo at 2:00. As ever, they were terrific; the Chardonay was good, too. 

Had dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula. Unfortunately, Kathie suffers from migraines and had had one yesterday, which is why she wasn't at dinner. After, I did fifteen minutes on the stationary bike and I want to do it daily, in fact, increase my exercise in general. 

BTW, luckily, the arthritis isn't nearly as bad this mornng. Also, I ordered a rub-on called "Voltaran" on Mary Ann's recommendation and it should be here today. 

THURSDAY

 Slept okay, but am not sure about tonight, as I took a long nap before lunch. Sat with LaVerne, Paula, and the newish resident, Judy. The latter is a non-stop talker, all about herself, of course, and her art work. It was "Brazil Day" and lunch was pretty good, but too much of it for me: both steak and chicken, plus a vegetable medley, rice, and potato salad. In addition, the usual bar-type table was set up and I had a beer. Mindy then came along offering cocktails and I had a pink something. 

Did little of consequence the rest of the day (do I ever?). Took another nap--not a good idea if I want to sleep at night, but I'm writing this at 7:00 pm Thursday (I top it off in the morning) and don't know yet.

Had dinner with Paula, Bea, and John, a person I hadn't known before. I saw neither Kathie nor Keith, but much as I like them, it was fun to be with a newbie. Skipped the dinner--tuna melt and fries--in favor of a bagel with salmon. Actually, I asked for two and took one home to eat whilst watching T.V.

Called Ellen because my laptop was acting up and she walked me through the solution. 

T.O.P.S. this morning and I'm anything but optimistic. 

WEDNESDAY

 Up at 6:15, but against my better judgement, napped from about 8:30 to 9:30. Then, proving my virtuous character, I went to balance class at 10:00. 

Lunched with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula; it was a BBQ cheeseburger with sweet potato fries and pretty good. Went to dime Bingo at 1:30 and won three games. 

Ellen came, as scheduled, at 4:00 and picked me up for the C.T.--or something--scan of the nodule in my lung. We went to Rolling Oaks radiology and it took only a short time. From there, we stopped at CVS at my request to get my meds. Then it was Jasmine Thai for dinner and that was yummy.

El came in after to pick up some of my donations for the thrift store. They included some clothes and some bed linens I no longer use. She left about 7:00 with my thanks in her ears--I don't know what I'd do without her. 

Slept well and I have no plans for today, which suits me fine. I'm thinking about calling Noreen for a lunch date at Danny's, but may or may not. 

TUESDAY

 I was in and out of sleep all night and finally got up at 7:20. Dressed, stripped the bed, and took the sheets to the laundry room. Went to Bone Builders at 10:15 and after, switched sheets to the dryer. 

Went from there to lunch and sat with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula.  Lunch was good--it was an enchilada with rice and veggies; I complimented Chef Michael after. 

Back upstairs and I made the bed. Do-Lannie had asked if she could do the cleaning in the morning instead of the afternoon as she usually does and sure, that was fine by me. As ever, she did a good job.

Went down to Dime Bingo at 1:30 and believe it or not, I won three games. After, Mindy asked Mary and me to stay so she could interview us. We did and the questions revolved around whether we were satisfied with our lives at The Orchard, what our daily routines looked like, and what could they do to make our lives here better. I'm happy here and actually enjoyed the interview. 

Had dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula--we're getting to be a regular quartet--and enjoyed it. Later, I showered and washed my hair, then settled down to watch--of all things--a bio of Libarace. 

Radnet radiology today at 4:30; I'm not  looking forward to it.

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One of the guys who lives here; can't remember his name, but he has a huge collection of tee shirts. 

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MONDAY

 Up at 6:30 after a good night's sleep. After dressing and my usual morning laptop routine (blog, Wordle, Connections, and Blossom), I took a short nap, then went down to balance class at 10:00.  Leader Jackie is away, so resident Elaine led the class. Had my meager breakfast (cottage cheese on thin-sliced bread), then futzed around with this and that.

Lunched with Kathie, LaVerne, and Bea. I saw Trudie and asked how she enjoyed Suzy and the Skin On Steel band on Sunday. She said she did, but would much rather hear music from an earlier time than the sixties and seventies. Hmm...I decided to call Suzy and suggest that. Did so, and Suzy was perfectly fine with that; she said they were rehearsing that night and she'd convey that info to the rest of the band members. After lunch, I did the exercise bike for fifteen miinutes--all two short a time, but better than nothing.

Had dinner with LaVerne, Keith, and Paula, whom I'm getting to like more and more. Instead of the entree, I got another bagel with lox (salmon) and took half home to eat during my hour of T.V. Texted Suzy witih more suggestions, including as Mary had mentioned, Creedence Clearwater and I swore that would be the last nagging from me---actually, I think she appreciated the input. 

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Oh, this was a long, long time ago. On the left are a twenty-one year old girl I don't even recognize; her soon-to-be husband, Pat Molloy, and Bobo Burke. I don't remember the people behind Bobo, but to the left of the man is the Molloy's next door neighbor. The three to her left are my future father-in-law, brother-in-law, and mother-in-law, then Jack Jenkins. Boca Raton, Florida, c. 1957. 

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SUNDAY AND A GREAT SHOW

 For some reason, I felt tired and nervous in the morning. Stayed up for a bit, got dressed, then took a short nap. Somewhat better when I got up, I wrote my short introduction to Suzy and the band, then fooled around on the laptop.

Had lunch with Kathie, Denise, and Paula and enjoyed it. After, I talked to Thea and fround that Mindy was coming in (she's off on Sundays), presumbably to greet and set up Suzy and the band. Good, that's a load off my mind. I was so worried the whole thing with Skin To Steel would attract only a small number of residents and/or they would be unresponsive....

...but happy day, I couldn't have been more wrong! The chairs were almost all filled and the audience was very "with it" singing and/or clapping along when appropriate. Here's the Skin to Steel band: 

From left, Eric, who is the son of Cheryl Lewis, my T.O.P.S. and pacifist friend; Suzy;  her husband, Steve, and the rhythm guy (or something), Bryan. 

They played, as scheduled for an hour and after, many of the audience came up to talk to them. The reception was great and Mindy was very enthusiastic about the group, so things couldn't be better. I gave Suzy the two sets of scripts--one for her and one for Bob. BTW, he was supposed to be here, but went to the wrong place (Open Mic in Ojai) and didn't show. Anyway, the gig turned out great.

Had dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula--it was a kind of strawberry salad and very good. Back in my apartment, I filled my med containers for the coming week and settled down to my favorite Block Champ. Slept well and didn't get up until 6:30. 

SATURDAY

 I got it done--the patio, that is, and it was a big job, but it looks good: 

I had to carry all the plants and other items in the living back to the patio/porch, wash them, arrange them, and water them and it took me more than an hour, but it was okay. After that, I took a load of wash to the laundry room, swept up, and so on. 

Had lunch with Trudie, Carl, Barb, Mary Ann, and Keith. The main entree was beef pot roast with Rosemary gravy and, since I'm the only Rosemary here, I got a lot of kidding about it. 

Later, I attended "Brazilian Bingo," but why it was called that is beyond me; it was just quarter-a-card Bingo and I won two games. Talked to Mindy about Suzy and the band coming today and Suzy called me to say they'd be here about 1:30 to set up and so on, although they don't go on until 3:00. . I still haven't worked up my intro, but I'll do that today. 

Had dinner with Kathie and LaVerne and it was good, although what they called a sausage and pepper sub was simply shredded sausage on a roll--no relationship to a sub. 

After dinner, I delved into my scripts and selected four commedies and two dramas to give Suzy and Bob to read. I had only one copy of Fatal Family Reunion, which is a comedy and we did as dinner theatre in Jersey, so I'll give that to Bob.  These scripts are ten to almost twenty years old and I can no longer find them on Word, so just have hard copies. 

I called Ellen just to say hello. She and Greg were driving back from Carpiteria, where they walked on the kind of boardwalk on the sand. I've been there, too, and it's a nice place. 

Today's the day Suzy and the Skin to Steel band come in and I still haven't worked up my intro, but will shortly. 

FRIDAY

 Not bad news re weight: I was 141.8 at home for a loss of 0.2 and to 142.8 at T.O.P.S. for a loss of 1.2  I'm not sure why the discrepency, but I'll take it. Of course, I still have plenty of work to do, but it's hearteing to be down a bit. 

Home a bit after ten and made a sketchy breakfast, then took a half hour nap. Before going down to lunch, I took a wash load to the laundry room, but no luck--both washers were taken. Went to the laundry in the other second floor wing and used that. Lunched with Kathie, LaVerne, and Paula, then went back to pop the clothes in the dryer. Found Mindy to tell her about the wrong time on the poster and she immediately corrected it. 

I went to the Carol Sing-a-Long at 2:00, but found many of her paino choices heavily militaristic and the rest banal. However, I stayed until it was time to go up to the salon at 3:30, , meet Elika, and get my manicure. It looks good and I always enjoy talking to Elika, who husband just got back from two months in Alaska getting salmon--he'e a fisherman by trade. 

Saw Mindy and when I told her she hadn't added the time on the poster, she immediately added it and  re-hung the posters. Unfortunately, this time she had the wrong time on them--she had put 2:00 instead of 3:00. When I told her, she changed it again and re-posted. 

Enjoyed dinner with Keith, Denise, and Paula. After, I straightend up a few things, then relaxed with my Block Champ game. My patio/porch seems to be finished, so I'll spend time today getting the plants and things back in place. 

THURSDAY

 I went to Bone Builders at 10:15 and more or less enjoyed the session. Lunch after, which I ate wth Trudie, Carl, and Barbara. Caught up with Mindy and discoverd that Suzy and her band, "Skin to Steel" will perform  on Sunday at 3:00 in the multi-purpose room. 

After lunch, I didn't do much but take a nap. I felt a little draggy and am not optimitic about my weight, but Mary Ann will pick me up at 8:15 this morning for T.O.P.S. 

I perked up a bit after dinner with Kathie, LaVerne, Paula, and Denise; we had congenial talk and fun sharing. After, I took a picture of the sheet Mindy had done--it's really good, but... 

...she overlooked listing the time. I went downstairs to tell her and she immediately corrected it and will put the new one out.

WEDNESDAY

The Uber guy, courtesy of my health insurane, SCAN, picked me up at 7:20 and took me to Quest for my blood test. As often happens, I was very early for my 8:00 appointment, but that was no big deal. Had the test, called to be taken home and shortly, was. I like most of the drivers as I did this one and enjoyed our conversations there and back.

Home, I made myself a quick breakfast of cottage cheese on bread, then took a load of whites to the laundry room. While they were washing, I took a quick nap until I had to go back to shift to the dryer, then later, of course, to retreive them, fold, and put away

El called to say she'll be a little later than 11:30, but that was okay, I just played games on the laptop until she got here at noon. Off we went to Wood Ranch for lunch--we both had their lucious BBQ salad--then to Wal-Mart for lemons and cashews for me, a variety of other items for El.

Got home a bit after three, put my things away, then was startled when a man suddendly jumped onto my second floor balcony: 

                                             

Of course, it was one of the guys re-doing the flooring out there. I then opened the door and thanked him for it; he was very appreciative. 

At dinner, Kathie and I went to our usual table and found resident Paula sitting there along with Ruth. We sat there (Keith came later, but went back upstairs without sitting down) with them and I got to know Paula, whom I hadn't met before. I liked her--she had a lot of interesting things to say. Unfortunately, she had had a stroke three months ago and it affected her vision, mobility, and the use of her left arm. All I had known about her before was that she's a Jehovah Witness and doesn't celebrate  or approve of marking birthdays or holidays with celebraions.

Ellen called to say I need another session at Rolling Oaks Radiology, but I'm not clear on what exactly it's for--I think as a follow-up to one of the proceedures I had before. Will ask her.

Now I have to write an intro to Suzy's trio for Sunday. Shouldn't be too diffucult.  

TUESDAY

The workers continued to bang away on my patio/porch/balcony, but it didn't bother me. Had lunch with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne; happily, bagels and lox are now served again and I had one--it was yum. Shortly after came dime Bingo; of course, I attended and won three games! Keith won two and my friend, Anita, one, so we all got our coins replenished. 

Home, I called Suzy, who will be appearing with her trio her on Sunday--can't wait. I'll be introducing her, and asked her to send me some info on the trio. She did and now I'll have to work up an intro. Told Mindy I had gotten it and she asked me to give her a copy, which I emailed to her.

I knew LaVerne wouldn't be coming to dinner and didn't see Kathie or Keith, so sat with Trudie and Carl, Mary Ann and Babara; Keith joined us shortly. We had some good conversation, but Trudie told us she had gone for a lung biopsy and yes, it's a malignant. I'm hoping--we all are--it can be treated, but Trudie doesn't yet have that information. 

I'm going for a blood test this morning via uber and remember I can  have my coffee, but with nothing in it. This afternoon, Ellen's coming over to send the letters to Mike and the girls, then--I hope--we'll go out for lunch.  

MONDAY

 I slept okay, didn't eat breakfast, and Susan picked me up at 11:15 for lunch at--where else?--the Stone Fire Grille. Gayle came and had a quick lunch, but had to leave before Renee, Nardall, and Nordall arrived. I had a two-pasta "tonesto" and an IPA, very tasty. We five talked and talked and talked, mostly about suicide, as Susan' husband had committed that act and so had Nardall's. Didn't leave until amost 3:00 and on the way home, Susan, at my request, stopped at CVS so I could get my two meds. 

Once home, I opened my Amazon box (unmentionables), washed some dishes and stowed my leftover lunch in the fridge. I then took a short nap before diinner...

...which I had with Kathie, Keith, and LaVerne. I got a turkey burger, as the main entree, beef something or other, didn't appeal to me. After a leisurily meal and conversation, I went back upstairs to play Block Champ on this laptop and otherwise amuse myself.  

They've started redoing my patio/porch; good thing I got everything inside, as instructed, before hand. The renovation should take another four days or so, then I'll replace the plants and so on. Just now, I've got the living room pretty jammed up:

Today is cleaning day and I must remember to tell Do-Lannie to skip the living room this time.

SUNDAY

 I was dreading having to move my plants, statuary, chairrs, and table off the porch, but the fact was it didn't take long, they all fit in the living room, and it was no big deal at all. I did some of it, then proud of myself, I had lunch with Kathie, Mary, and Cheryl and finished the job after. 

This tribute to Randy Mantooth is displayed in the multi-purpose room:

My friend, Truidie, wrote the little piece about him and the smaller picture is of Randy and Trudie's daughter. 

After finishing the patio/porch move, I really just fooled around after lunch until I joined the Yatzee gang (Keith, Elaine, Beverly, Ada, and Pat) at 3:00. I didn't win any of the three games, but it was reasonably enjoyable.

Had dinner with Keith, Kathie, and LaVerne and the conversation turned to astrology, which the latter two take seriously. How any normal person can do that is beyond me, but I guess it takes all kinds.

After dinner I called Ellen and we made plans to come over Wednesday to get the letters I mentioned here before sent to Mike and the girls electronically. I just don't know how to do it, but El does and I'm glad to know that. 

SATURDAY

A quiet day, but that's okay once in a while.

Went over to the flea market at the clubhouse in the morning, but I didn't see much I wanted--I have too much of everything as it is. I did buy a night light and some of Mary T.'s handmade birthday cards. 

Lunch with Kathie and Keith; presumably, LaVerne stayed in. At 1:30, I went down to quarter and dime Bingo and actually one two games. After, Mindy and I talked and I mentioned that Cheryl's son was appearing here on August 9. I was amazed to discover he's actually the third member of my friend, Suzy's, trio. Mindy called Suzy while I was there and I talked to her after. I told her I'd like her and Bob to read some of my scripts. Also, I'll tell Cheryl she can attend when the trio is here. I'll be introducing them and that should  be fun. 

Had dinner with Barbara, Trudie, and Carl;  it was turkey tortellini and pretty good. Today, I have to get all the stuff off my balcony and that's a chore I wish I had started sooner. 

FRIDAY AND A SAXOPHONE

 T.O.P.S. day--or I could call it "disaster day"; I gained 1.4 home to 142 and 1.7 at the meeting to 144--AAGH! That's the heaviest I've been in months and it has to stop. At the meeting were Cheryl, Lanie, Mary Ann, and Sharon. Maria didn't make it and texted me later she had been kept awake by mosquitos. Mosquitos in California? I didn't think there were any. I was pleased to hear form Cheryl that her son will be the Happy Hour person on August 9--I had forgotten that he has a band.

When I came down for lunch, I didn't see either Kathie or Keith. Julie sat at our usual table, then we were joined by Judy. I passed on the fried cod and had a Cobb salad; took half home. 

I had put a load of wash in before lunch, after transferred to the dryer on the third floor, as those on the second were in use. Got it later and now I have plenty of clean clothers to wear.I got a nice note back from nephew Wes, in response to my complimenting his daughter, Miranda. 

Went down to Happy Hour at 3:00 to have a Margarita and listen to a sax player. He was good, of course, but sax without song isn't exactly my cup of tea; however, I sat with Trudie and enjoyed it: 

Time for dinner was shortly after and I again sat with Trudie, along with Carl and Barbara. A newcomer joined us--Ada moved here just three days ago and she proved to be another champion talker, all about her three husbands and mentally ill mother and so on and so forth--AAGH!  

Son Mike Facdtimed me about 7:30 and we had a nice chat. He and his lady friend are just getting over the flu and he's leaving today for several days in Jakarta--work, of course.  I told him I was sending him, Vivian, and Violet the old letters from my mother and Betty, but he wants me t do it electronically and I'll have to figure out how. I'll ask Ellen, of course.