day 309

I will sip Silk, watch the ball drop in Times Square, and go to bed. That’s it for my exciting plans for New Year’s Eve. It’s been a pretty good year. I’ve been getting healthier than ever. I give credit to the fitbit for motivating me. Now I jump up and pace during commercials on TV and that is an improvement. Megan brought  another car load last night and will come tomorrow for several days of settling in and planning.

Day 308

Today I’ll get the senior news distributed. Don’t want to wait until Monday. It’s cold but clear and I have layers to keep warm. Thinking about a couple of pages of recap in my journal along with the usual intention of writing daily next year. When I look at old journals that are full of color, poems, pictures, and now I have nothing pretty. I want to get back to that mind set. The journal is a place for art.

Day 307

The floor is still damp so I haven’t tried adding water to the hot tub to see if it stays inside. I’m hopeful that the new connection piece will work. The young man at home depot was so helpful. He walked me from the plumbing department all the way out to garden and found the part. It will make it easy to connect the hose. The senior center was pleasant yesterday. Quieter than usual and lots of friendly conversations happened.

Day 306

Yesterday was full of errors and messes. I dropped and broke two things, slipped in dog poop, and decided to drain the hot tub. I couldn’t make the hose connect and was about to give up when I spotted the neighbor and asked for his help. He forced the whole thing and water squirted everywhere. Then he thought it was back together and water went out the hose. After that, more water appeared on the floor. I’m afraid it’s broken.

day 305

Spent time outside yesterday. It is necessary to be in the fresh air and sun whenever possible. Today I will go to church. I missed the Christmas Eve service when I chose to go to bed instead. I am not resting well and by 7 PM I want to do nothing. Megan may show up after work with more of her belongings. Won’t be long until she lives here permanently. Thursday is her last day at work. Change is coming.

day 304

It was a pleasant family day with sharing of tales and laughing. The dinner was perfect. We have arrived at the truth that just having a dinner menu without the frills is better for enjoying the main event. I went to bed early again and up early again. I would like to sleep past 4:30. It makes a long day. I have checks to write and take to the post office, a little grocery shopping. Otherwise it is an open day.

day 303

Didn’t make it to church. Went to bed instead. Just not feeling well. Megan had a harrowing trip through snow, hail, sleet, rain, and wind. Two hours to get here and she was worn out. More of her things came with her and the little house is beginning to look like her home. Today we will fix our traditional dinner and I’m looking forward to the fun of cooking together. Now there are four dogs under foot. It’s all good.

day 302

Hollie chose a six pound roast for $50! Wow. We better cook it right. We have slicked down the menu to just dinner. No pre-prandial noshes. Today I will go to the senior center. I liked having a week off. It’s very cold with the threat of snow close by. Bundle up for a walk if I get a break in the rain. Megan will drive up after work and bring more of her belongings. Soon she will be permanent.

Day 301

Good sleep. Woke up ready for the day. Yesterday was busy with the family in and out and that includes the two dogs. The chugs are busy creatures and my old girls just kind of watch them. I’m hopeful they will join in with playing and running around. Today Hollie and I will shop for Christmas dinner. It is the traditional menu: roast haunch of musk ox and root vegetables plus Brussel sprouts. It is our vestige of Christmas doings.

Day 300

Another restless night. I feel a cold coming on. I’ll head for the netti pot and the vitamin C. Megan is moving out of boxes and into living in the little house. She is excited about displaying her book collection. Her dogs and my old girls are getting used to each other. I did get out for a brief walk yesterday between showers and I’m hopeful for another chance today. I get cabin fever fast in the dark gray weather.

Day 299

9 hours and 33 minutes of daylight. We will get out light back a minute a day. I did make space for Megan in the kitchen. She arrived late yesterday and is staying for two days to start unpacking the boxes. I made the bed for her. It was far easier to make the bed back when I was 48.  The loft space requires certain calisthenics to achieve. I hope I at least made some active minutes on the fitbit.  

day 298

Out yesterday and loved it. Now rain and wind for a week. I did sort the closet and today I will make changes in two kitchen cupboards to make room for Megan’s big items until we get her kitchen remodeled. She is coming tomorrow to begin unloading the boxes and putting things away. She has a knack for making maximum use of small spaces. I will go to church and then find a productive way to use this dark day. 

Day 297

Clearing spot this morning for a trip to the farm stand. I enjoy their fresh produce and support their business. I’m going for dog food at the feed store and a walk by myself. I’ve been having unpleasant dreams and waking time in the middle of the night. When I wake up before 5 AM I am not rested. Even though that’s what’s happening, I jump out of bed and get busy, just not with the usual humming and dancing.

Day 296

Another day with record breaking rainfall recorded and another stormy week on the way. The last couple of Decembers were mild with lots of walks when Kelle visited. She is currently in Santa Barbara with friends and walking weather. Her visits helped with seasonal depression as she brightened up the darkest week in the year. Today I will get out for errands. Dog food run and dog walk at Home Depot. Nice of them to allow us to walk there.

Day 295

Two good walks yesterday. Bills paid, errands done. Megan brought another load of stuff to her home. She had finals yesterday and hopes she did well. More rain and wind now and into next week. Kelle will get her fitbit charged and on my friends screen. Today the Bar-O boys will bring their baking products to the senior center and I will buy two loaves of lemon poppy seed bread.  The paperwhite sprouts have turned from white to green already.

Day 294

Ready for Wednesday. The orchids need attention first thing this morning. I remembered paperwhite bulbs and put them in water. I hope they grow. Dr. E. said my retinas are stable and pressure is great. He wants me to keep doing what I’m doing. That is exercising, eating well, taking supplements, and keeping a positive attitude. Later, out for a walk to the post office, to pay the cell bill, and pick up a few things at the grocery store.

Day 293

Sun today. Whew! Short break but welcome. There was ice on the porch railings when I picked up the paper. I want to go outside, walk, poke around in the yard, pick lemons, and enjoy the sun although there is practically no heat now. Yesterday was busy at the senior center. I recounted the event when Kim stopped the school Christmas concert to run up the bleachers to get me to sing with him for the hallelujah chorus. I cried.

Day 292

I was uncomfortable yesterday, anxious and restless. I did get out for 12 minutes to get a brisk walk. Started raining again before I was back inside. I am chasing the dark with the string of colored lights. They help with the seasonal desire to hibernate. I’m missing the annual visit from Kelle. She has been here for the days between Christmas and New Years for 11 years. She spent her travel money on a paint job for her car.

Day 291

Unrelenting rain. Closed roads, rivers officially flooding. I did get 10K steps yesterday pacing during commercials. Reminds me of unpleasant times when flooding affected my family in 1964. I will stay inside. Not planning to go to church. El Nino is early and forceful. I can check off another indoor chore today. Megan has made two trips with  carloads of boxes full of books and kitchen things. Makes it real to see them. I’m looking forward to having her here.

Day 290

I thoroughly enjoyed puttering yesterday. I cleaned and rearranged all the bookcases, the CDs. I touched everything. New configurations of things I already have to look better, neater, and more pleasing to see. It made me feel like smiling and humming. I love my humble home. A brief opening for a walk was quickly changed by lightning and thunder that sent me scurrying for home. Maybe today the storm will give me a break. I miss being outside and walking. 

Day 289

I’m glad that I have an indoor agenda. If the clouds give me a chance, I’ll get out for a walk. If not, I’ll walk to the closet and give it the long promised attention. I have writing going on in my mind that could get on paper today. I want to rewrite the column on retirement for the church newsletter. Writing takes place a long time before I see it on paper. The creative spirit is alive and well.

Day 288

Completely cleaned the kitchen yesterday and had two walks besides. Early start to today with a thunder storm about 3:30 AM. Poor Minnie. She suffers, shakes, drools. I can offer no solace. I’m planning to go to the senior center for duty in spite of the rain and wind. Stayed home last week because of the weather and I can’t stay home every time it’s storming. Winter is just getting started. Had good conversations yesterday. Connecting with friends is important.

Day 287

Another day when I will keep an eye outside for a break to take a walk. I’m addicted to walking and have to have it. Maybe it’s time to buy a treadmill. I could walk any old time. The massage yesterday was wonderful. Karen used hot rocks on my back and shoulders. I could hardly wait for bedtime and slept through without moving. I have a list of promised activities for a wet day. Closets and kitchen cupboards are waiting.

day 286

All errands and walks completed yesterday and I was very wet in the process. Today I will go out again. Can’t stay inside simply because it’s wet and windy. The board of supervisors meet this morning. I will be there. Later I will go to Karen for a massage. The senior center was lively yesterday. I like being there when it’s friendly and fun. Spent some time writing in my journal about stress. It does help to write it down.

Day 285

More weather. It is December after all. I’ll get a walk this afternoon after senior center duty. I will go out in the storm. Staying home is too easy and I miss conversation. I’ll get the dog licenses renewed on the way to the center and I will collect information for the guy at the Surf and take that this afternoon. I like to keep current on errands and bills. The lentil soup pot is enough for today and tomorrow.

Day 284

Noisy awful night. The wind whistled and banged around making us restless. Minnie seems on edge. It’s the knocking under the porch that she thinks is the front door. Today I’ll go to church. May get a walk in the wind. Then I’ll make a pot of lentil soup with bone broth, leeks, carrots, and cabbage from the farm stand. Been avoiding the news and watching smarmy predictable Hallmark holiday movies. No stress, amateurish acting, and happy ever after endings.

Day 283

Megan brought a car load of books. She could start her own library. I love seeing her begin to move in next door. It’s windy and wet again. Both walks yesterday ended in getting wet and the chill was hard to break. Seems like my bones get cold in this weather. Takes tea and a lap full of dogs to feel deeply warm again. Today is farm stand visit. I need to fill my crispers with fresh produce. Yum Yum

Day 282

I took the easy way and stayed home. It poured and blew all day long and the pounding rain woke me early this morning. Today I will go out at least for a sashay around the grocery store. The visit with Tonda on Wednesday was uneventful. We talked and figured out that besides the migraines, I am in good shape. She compliments me for taking responsibility for my health. She says most of her patients want her to fix them.

Day 281

Weary start for today. Too much TV yesterday about the latest shooting episode. The night was noisy with gale winds turning on motion sensor lights and knocking at the door. I couldn’t get under it to really sleep. Gave up before 4AM. Today driving will be difficult and drivers will be nuts. The seagulls are walking. That’s a clue to the strength of the wind. I’m guessing the seniors will be hyper too. I remember windy days with students. Egads.

Day 280

Cold wet morning, lots of cold wind. I have an early appointment with Tonda, just for a chat and quick check-up. I don’t have any health issues to talk about. My bones ache and that is part of aging. Fortunately my walking and exercise are serving me well and keeping my mobility intact. Today my paper journal will get color. When I look at old journals, they are full of color and interest. Now, black ink and nothing but words. 

Day 279

Yesterday was busy and I was tired by 4PM. Most of the senior news was distributed and I’ll finish this morning. The wind was cold and I brought home a chill that required a cup of tea and a chair full of dogs to break. New month. New energy to fill my days well and productively. Course correction in place. I have already completed my core exercises, turned off the TV after a brief look at the news, and danced.

day 278

The Senior News will arrive this afternoon so after center duty, I’ll distribute them. It will be a wet week so I want to get as many as I can today when it is just showers. Month’s end and my paper journal has the confession that I have not kept all my commitments to myself. I can do much better. And I acknowledge the ones I have kept. I believe that intention is everything and then I go off course.

Day 277

Today is even colder and the sun has little heat now. It’s time to keep the doors closed much as I love to have the light come in. Today after church we will color. Alicia is bringing books and crayons. I have books, colored pencils, and pens. It will be interesting to see who stays to join in. I’m taking the cranberry bread that I bought at the Bar-O boys sale at the senior center. Followed by a brisk walk.

Day 276

Brisk Saturday morning. I’ve been walking later when the temperature gets to 50. At 10 I will be going to the farm stand as I need fresh produce. I’m planning to buy carrots, kale, cabbage, onions, and potatoes and whatever else catches my eye. No agenda and that means an open day. I don’t want to do housework so maybe I’ll think of something different and fun. I do need to pack up the dishes in Megan’s house for storage. 

day 275

Another cold clear morning. The moon is shining so brightly that I thought the porch light was on! Today there are errands and shopping. I stay out of stores from now until January except for groceries and must-haves. I can’t tolerate the hype. Our family has given up all connections to the holiday. I gave away my decorations several years ago. Today I’ll pack up the dishes from Megan’s house to store in case it becomes a guest house again.

Day 274

Yesterday was productive. All the books were distributed to the senior center and the Wellness Center. The old kitchen things were also given away and now there is an empty sunporch. There are a few things left in the car that will go to daily bread tomorrow. I had a turkey thigh and pie for breakfast. It is cold and I will bundle up for a walk. Dark at 5PM and the lights and candle help with the seasonal depression.

day 273

Four dogs is a lot of paws and barks. It worked just fine. Megan sorted the books and took two boxes with her, leaving two boxes for me to distribute. The dinner was a cooperative cooking event and was delicious. We had a close and fun day with lots of laughing and sharing. Today we will enjoy the fresh pumpkin pie and the left-overs. Best part of dinner is the sandwiches on rolls and later, the turkey soup. Happy Thanksgiving

Day 272

All the menu items are waiting for preparation. Hollie will come at 10. Megan and Sarah and two dogs will show up later. Lots of activity and noise will happen. Chuck will come to carve and serve the turkey. All’s well in the family. I’m grieving with Jackie for her son Troy. He died of a heart attack. It is a devastating loss for the family and the Yurok tribe. He was a leader and advocate for fisheries and rivers.

Day 271

After Monday senior center duty, Hollie and I will shop for our Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow. As a family we have never felt obligated to keep the date on the calendar as a have-to. We have celebrations when everyone gets together. So, this year T-day is Tuesday. We have scaled back on dinner and shopping is quick. Just the basics. I enjoy the preparing with Hollie and Megan. Then I get to make soup! My favorite part of the whole dinner. 

Day 270

Did most of the sorting and have a box of stuff that I will redistribute. May take it to the senior center recycled gift shop. Hollie helped with the job and then we had a great lunch together. I enjoy her help and her company. Making the space ready for Megan is a pleasure. The fresh look of the paint and the empty places are inviting. Two more projects: sod in front of the sunporch and a new back door.

Day 269

Saturday and I may go to the farm stand. I’m glad they continue to provide fresh produce through the winter. I miss the walks and talks at the farmers’ market. Today I will sort and inventory the little house. I want to go through every drawer and cupboard. When Megan is here on Tuesday, she can decide what she wants of her own and what I can leave for her use. She has furniture that she will want to use.

day 268

David showed at 3PM and cleared the area. Today I will call Mayle to get the sod project started. The whipped butter paint is perfect. The little house glows, even with low light. Today the painters will put everything back and I can begin sorting out what will stay and what will either be stored or donated. After a wet Thursday I can get out and walk. Later I will see Tracy for a check-up on my back stabilization progress.

Day 267

David didn’t show or call. I’m disappointed. Now that Megan has two dogs, it would be nice for them to have a plot of grass outside the door. Hollie helped clear for the painters and we carried out all the books and decorations. Then we took the dogs for a walk at the Harbor on a beautiful day. Karen came for the rest of her belongings that were inside and gave me the key. I enjoyed having her stay here.

Day 266

David promised to spend hours today. If he gets the area down to dirt I can call and get the sod project started. It may be done before Megan comes. Karen moved most of her belongings and will get the rest today. I will empty the bookcase and take down wall hangings. I like progress. Now all I need is a backdoor replacement  and I’ll be satisfied. Aside from the walk and exercise, that’s the way the day looks now.

Day 265

Made progress on unfinished business. Randy Johnson is coming to measure the little house for yellow paint. I want it done before Megan comes. I asked her to take the books to make room for her things. Randy will also make a date for painting the back wall. Found a guy who fixes scratched phones and will get to Harbor soon. David hasn’t shown up. Wish I could do it myself but shoveling is off the list at this time.

Icy morning

Day 264

I did get out. Back in the house just as the rain, hail, and wind ramped up. Quiet day with the dogs and TV. I watched all I could about the Paris attack. Then I played music and colored in my Entangled book. I use colored pencils and the repeated patterns are soothing. It’s like meditation. I read the Prayers for the People in church and enjoyed being part of the service. Lately I have had more and better energy.

Day 263

Wet, windy and dark. Regular Sunday. Orchids will get attention first, then church. Don’t know about walking yet. It will depend on how serious the weather gets. I do have clothing that will protect me. It’s getting the door open and that first step outside. The walking habit is strong and the restlessness that happens when I don’t go out is miserable. Better to go out and get battered than stay inside. If that’s my only problem, I doing well.

Day 262

Feral says he misses the ladder to the sleeping loft. It was a cat’s playground. Soon Megan and Butters will be next door. Hope to get the room painted before they come. I made plans with my yard worker to plant sod in the front of the sunporch. Now I need David to show up and clear it. I may have to get out there myself again and do it carefully. My chiropractor suggested that I do not move rocks! 

Prompt with CJ friends

It was a time when my long-time partner in the volunteer police patrol left because of health problems. She and I knew each other well. Our conversations in the patrol car were about daily stuff, comfortable as old friends can be. At the next meeting of our group, I looked around the table and realized that everyone was paired up. After the informational part of the meeting, Gene Lyssenko spoke up. His partner had moved and he was looking for a new partner. He wanted another male. I felt a nudge. My intuition is rarely satisfied with a nudge so then I felt a poke. Andd then a serious poke. In a tiny almost inaudible voice, I said, “I”ll be your partner.” Long silence. So long that I had time to sweat. Finally, he said, “We can try that.” We made a day and time. He liked the evening tour 4 PM until 8PM, where we shook business doors, drove behind stores, and patrolled downtown and the harbor.

The first couple of times conversation felt awkward. We talked about our history with the PD and our duty.  I caught on quickly that the harbor tour was his favorite and he began to tell stories about fishing. His trips on the ‘big pond” were epic adventures.  For years he would bring me cleaned and packaged ling cod, snapper, and the prized green ling, salmon, and even halibut. There was far more than I could use and he asked me to distribute the bounty.

Then there was his garden. Huge plantings of vegetables, green house full of tomatoes, about an acre of sunflowers too.  Again, I was the recipient of his generosity. He make blackberry cordial and was sure that I had plenty in case I needed a toddy for medicinal purposes.

In a short time, I could talk about anything. I trusted him as I had never trusted anyone with my hopes and fears. When I needed a male point of view about an incident, I trusted him to tell me the truth. As I learned Gene’s history, five-year-old with his mother and grandfather walking from Ukraine to Poland, years in a German work camp, finally coming to the US at age 13, I appreciated where his generosity came from. He was a small frail man whose bone problems came from lack of nourishment as a child. What I deeply loved about Gene was his wisdom and compassion. I was touched by his stories and his active giving. He had a warm spot for homeless families and would give them food and money.  He loved our country passionately. He was a dedicated Democrat and we had lively discussions. His side often peppered with salty words about Republicans.

Gene is gone. The last weeks of his life, he spoke only Russian. His last word, Babushka, reaching for his mother, he died. Now he is out on the big pond fishing and fishing. Knowing him was a treasure. And I would have missed it if I had not spoken up.

Day 261

David worked a couple of hours moving rocks. He made noticeable progress. May have sod in the front soon. I hope he turns out to be a reliable worker. I walked the dogs yesterday and then walked myself. Last year at this time I walked 6K for the first time. Now I regularly walk 10K. I like signposts that show my commitment to getting and staying well. Today is Friday the 13^th. No black cats around here since Karen moved.

Feral the Ferocious

day 260

It was a good day. I was happy to be the Democratic Party banner bearer. I’m always amazed at how many people I recognize when I’m out in public. Guess I am a fixture around here. I’m writing about Gene for the 400 word CJ challenge. That’s simply not enough words for what I want to impart about him and our friendship. I keep paring words. Maybe I’ll just break the rules and write as long as I want to.  

Day 259

The board meetings are interesting. I don’t understand why they are poorly attended. People need to be aware of the business of the county. Today I will walk with the Democrats in the Veterans’ Day parade. Probably carry a sign or hold up a banner. It might be wet so I’ll wear a blue rain jacket over a red shirt, and a white scarf. I want to get involved in our politics. It’s important to take a stand and act.

Day 258

Cold morning. I jumped out of my warm nest, ran to the heater, turned it on, and ran back to bed. Today I will attend the board of supervisors meeting, and have a massage with Karen. I will bundle up for a walk and enjoy the clean cold air. Yesterday Hollie put up colored lights around the alcove and it creates a lovely soft ambient glow designed to brighten the early dark hours. Both of us need light for well-being.

Day 257

Yesterday was for weather lovers. Rain, hail, sun, rainbows, thunder, lightning, wind. I still was able to go out for two walks! Today is mixed with chances for more. After senior center duty I will meet Hollie. I promised Megan that I would get museum research material for her project on the Gasquet Orleans road vs. the Yurok tribe. There is sacred ground that tribal members have preserved against road builders. I’m glad Meg is interested in local Native issues.

Day 256

Didn’t find anything interesting to do. Stayed in feeling unwell and very restless. Not a good combination. I paced 8K steps from the front door to the back porch door.  David worked an hour in the rock pile and did a lot already. The rain started and he left. I do see that the project can be done. Today the orchids will get their weekly attention and I will go to church. Hoping for energy and a walk between showers. 

Day 255

Help with the rocks in the little yard walked up and spoke to me while I was stuffing the hydrangeas in the van. He asked if I needed help with my yard and I showed him the little yard and what I wanted to change. He is starting this morning. Here’s hoping. Eventually there will be lawn instead of weeds and rock. Today is open. Of course I’ll walk toward my 10K steps goal and find something interesting to do. 

Day 254

I checked out volunteer sites with RSVP and there was no Aha! moment. Guess I’ll have to find one on my own. Instead of looking outside, I could spend some energy on my house and yard. The bales are still producing chard, peppers, and zucchini so I can’t take them all apart yet. The little yard needs a plan. The rock moving project slowed to a stop with the enormity of what I thought I could do. I need help. 

Day 253

Wrote my December column yesterday about holidays and food and sent it in. Had a lot of conversations and connections. It was a good day. Today will start out routine and hope for new people or ideas for expanding my activities. Tracy helped my sore back and walking is fun again. So maybe the dogs will get a walk after senior center duty. I am restless for an unnamed something. I can trust that I’ll find out what that is.

Day 252

I should have bruises from Sarah! She really dug into the knots in my back. Today I feel better because of it. Housework day. I may start out walking and picking up trash. It is cold and clear so a couple of layers and a hat will be the wardrobe. I shared the Dear Darlene letter on Collective Journey and it started a discussion about relationships. Maybe others will write and share too. We used to have good writing together.

Day 251

Nice new battery in the car. Made for a slow start yesterday but it ended well. Thanks to Les Schwab’s customer service, I was only an hour late to the senior center. Today the dogs will get a walk on the lawn at Walmart and then I will make a dash inside for a few things I can’t find anywhere else. Later I get a massage with Sarah who knows all the places that need her skill. Good day coming.

Day 250

All Saints Day at church. I talked about Wendell and his silliness while we were in the choir. They sang the saints song with his “killed by a fierce wild priest” line. It was fun. I hope he knew it was happening in his memory. I didn’t walk outside yesterday and missed it. Between the rain and an energy slump, I was grounded. Today will be better. It was a good soaking rain and this morning is cool and clear.

senior News column

One day when I went into the day-room at the Surf senior apartments two women were sitting together, talking, and coloring in their adult coloring books. Later my friend Susanne called to tell me about her new coloring book that featured zentagle type designs. By now I am intrigued by the idea of adult coloring books. I looked them up on my computer and found several sites and a lot of variety. I ordered a couple for myself: one called Entangled and one called Balance that was suggested by my friend Barbara. My kitchen table holds, crayons, pens, pencils, and a good light. Now all I needed was a friend to sit and color with me. That was easy to achieve and along with cups of tea, we found a relaxing experience. Maybe it brings back memories of childhood enjoyment, a rainy afternoon spent coloring companionably and quietly with a good friend.

Christian themed adult coloring books are many and varied from stained glass windows to psalms, to stories and expressions of joy. Coloring could easily move to creating one’s own drawing and coloring.

I already liked to zentangle and decided to draw my own coloring pages with pens and pencils. It seemed like the natural next step to coloring in a book. All it takes is paper and imagination to create interesting designs. Zentangle instruction is also available on line. Once the basics are learned, it’s open to original drawing. I enjoyed sharing the how-to part with my friends. It is easy to fill a page with the designs and then fill the spaces with color. 

From coloring books to creating coloring pages led to exploring drawing in other ways. I found drawing instruction on line. There are free classes offered and the materials are already around from the coloring fun. All it takes is paper and tools such as pencils and pens. Now I had the opportunity to make use of my creative ideas and explore right here at my kitchen table. There are drawing classes at the community college and that is another way to be inspired. Those classes would offer more choices of materials and methods of putting ideas on paper. Once I took  lessons with children at the art gallery. I was able to try out watercolor, acrylics, charcoal, pastels and the kids didn’t mind. It’s always time to get creative. All it takes is desire.

Day 249

Hello November. Into the tunnel of dark hours. Turned the clocks before I went to bed. The dark mornings don’t bother me. It’s the early dark that makes me want to go to bed. Two months and then the light minutes come back. Orchid care and church are my agenda. Depending on the weather, I hope to get out for a walk. The house needs attention and so does my restless spirit. Routine is comfortable but not satisfying or stimulating.

Day 248

Waited all morning for the papers and they arrived after noon. I distributed most of them. Della has a tooth infection and the vet prescribed anti-inflammatory medication. I’ll keep her on turmeric as it doesn’t damage organs. Hollie and I will walk to the last farmers’ market of the season. Her favorite apple guy will be there. Then the dreadful time change. Why don’t we just leave Nature alone and let the sun to tell us what time it is.

Day 247

Another beautiful day and I will be distributing senior news. It’s going to rain for the next few days so I want to get the job done in the sun. Yesterday was a good one. Even though my ear is still not clear, I felt good and had a silly streak at the senior center. After the papers I will take Della to the vet. She acts stiff and slow. I’m guessing arthritis but want an opinion from the doc. 

Day 246

First thing I do after my feet hit the floor is begin activating devices. The heater, the lights, the coffee machine, the cell phone, the TV, the computer, and I pick up the newspaper. Electricity connects me to inside comfort and the outside world. It’s like blood circulating through my system. Today I will connect with people at the senior center followed by a dog walk and a walk by myself. Must take full advantage of the beautiful fall weather. 

Day 245

 The warm refrigerator was my fault. I hadn’t pulled it out and cleaned the backside. The air intake was clogged with dust and dog hair. I learn from my mistakes and have made memos in my log book. I will keep it running. Mistakes are wake up calls to pay attention. I’m thinking of times I’ve trusted too soon in a relationship and rued the day. Still, I would rather be a person who trusted rather than a cynical one.

Day 244

Fran and I have been posting about aging on CJ where the others are all years younger than us. It has been revealing to express feeling about the physical and emotional issues that go along with adding candles to our cakes. Our members are following our dialogue and hopefully they will gain understanding and compassion from our revelations. Today I hope the warm refrigerator has an easy fix. And I dropped my cell phone and crazed the glass. Oh well.

Day 243

Received an e-mail from a woman in Eureka who reads senior news. She asked about writing groups as she wants one. It made me long for the groups I have belonged to and the journal events way back to Progoff. I enjoy group activity and the energy of others. Lately I haven’t written any personal words except here and publicly in the column. I guess if I want a writing group I may have to round up a few writers.

Day 242

Rain and wind. Yesterday I broke up another bale and distributed it in the rose garden, trees, and along the north fence. I wanted it on the ground before the rain started. All the garden tools are in the shed. It’s time to clear items that have been sitting outside for months. Today I’ll get to church. I missed last Sunday with the earache. Later I may attend the Adventist cooking class. I enjoy the people and the vegetarian recipes.

Day 241

Crisp clear morning. Hollie and I will walk to the farmers’ market. There are only two left this season. She buys apples and I’m hoping there are still pears. We want broccoli for the roasted broccoli garlic recipe. It works for Brussel sprouts too. I love the fresh produce and the event. Then we may find something else to do together. Lots of dreams. I wish I could remember them. I know they are busy dreams with lots of activity.

Day 240

Good fall day to work outside. The bales are falling apart and I will move the wonderful remains to places where I want to plant next season. The pear trees need attention to have unwanted suckers cut off. Besides a walk, I have no other agenda. An open day waiting for an invitation or initiation. I have a restless need for a social life. It’s up to me to figure out how to get started again. Sure sign of healing.

Day 239

Hearing in stereo again! Ready to jump back into my routine. I’ll start with a walk and trash collection, then Senior Center duty. There could be a dog walk this afternoon. They need exercise.  A week at home is a time to appreciate how full my life is. I have wide connections in the community. I get tickled with the buddy waves while I’m walking. Lots of chats at the farmers’ market and shopping. It’s a good thing to belong.

Day 238

My ears are crackling. Unpleasant but a sign that the gump is breaking up. I would like to spend a day when I didn’t focus on feeling unwell.  Wish I had some wise insights into the meaning of life. Today life seems to be about gratitude that I have plugged up ears and not something life threatening. Yesterday I traced the recovery of ferritin from August, 2013, 7 to May 2015, 75. That was an inch from total system failure.

Day 237

Stayed inside yesterday. Admitted that I didn’t feel well and sat as above. This morning I feel okay. The ears are still plugged and hearing is weird. I will get out and walk today although picking up trash won’t happen. Bending down is not an option as my head feels fragile. I enjoyed a phone conversation with an old friend, Jerry Beck. We had a catch-up on our activities and families. He is a busy guy with projects and volunteering.

day 236

I missed church yesterday. Between the headache and cold symptoms there was no room for going anywhere. I feel better today except for plugged and achy ears. The dogs go for a bath this morning and I’ll decide if I feel like going to the senior center. I don’t want to share my cold. Sure makes for long days when I’m just sitting. The dogs like it. They curl up on my lap and snooze. It’s a waste of time.

Day 235

The day went by with no connections but I did walk five miles in the rain. This morning I feel cold symptoms along with a headache. Darn it all. Routine day as far as I have planned: orchid care, walking, and church. If there is a break in routine, fine. I don’t seem to know how to initiate social activity. I turned down invitations for years when I wasn’t well. Now I have enough energy to reconnect and forgot how.

Day 234

Damp gray Saturday morning. I will walk to the farmers’ market later. More pears and squash and string beans. I hope to see friends and make plans. I want to make plans. I want more activity and socializing. There used to be regular times for group fun like dog club, womens’ group, dream group, writing group and now I have no connections on that level. There must be a place for me where I could find meaningful activity and conversation. 

Day 233

The hedge looks better. He trimmed the top although not straight across.  Woke up in the night with a migraine. Didn’t sleep well before or after the medication. I’m tired this morning. I did walk but felt like the Little Engine That Could. Block by block I told myself I could get to the next one and I did. Glad to come home and glad I pushed myself out the door. There are days when the gray outside comes in.

Day 232

I used my energy outside. It was warm and a good time to dig weeds and move some of the beautiful compost from the bales onto the lemon and pear trees. I need to get back to moving rocks and that will happen a bit at a time until I figure out how to get rid of them. I will run out of room along the fence lines. Today after senior center duty, Richard will come to trim the hedge. 

Day 231

Another beautiful day is starting with a starry sky and calm warm air. No agenda so I can fill the day as I wish beginning with the necessary walk. Mild headache that nearly went away with coffee. May medicate, may not. I prefer to have it go away with time and moving around. I’m on the lookout for new people, new place to volunteer, new ideas, a creative urge, even a housework bug would work. I don’t enjoy feeling restless.

Day 230

I picked up three bags of trash yesterday and took the girls for a walk in the afternoon. It was a lovely fall day and today will be fair and warm. The sky was clear and full of stars when I picked up the paper at 6 AM. I’m going to the board of supervisors meeting and Karen will give me a massage this afternoon. I’ll walk early and enjoy the day. I have fresh vegetables for the chicken soup. 

Day 229

I walked by myself. Did get 10K steps by evening. I ate all day. Good food but too much and when I was ready for bed, it was hard to feel self-respect. I am out-of-control with food at this time. I have self-discipline and can reflect on the health routine that I keep and enjoy. Today I will live such that I can end the day with a smile at my behavior. Mornings are always good starts for my day.

Day 228

I walked in the rain yesterday. I walked through the Sea Cruise car show and down to Battery Point to watch the surf, walked back by the museum for a quick visit, and home. I was dripping wet inside and outside of my slicker. I have pears and squash from the market and Hollie has her apples. Today will be routine Sunday activities starting with watering orchids and attending church. There will be a long walk sometime maybe with dogs.

Day 227

Damp outside. Smells fresh. All the brown spots are ready to sprout weeds. Today Hollie and I will walk to the farmers’ market. She loves the apples. I’m up for the pears. Both of us want the squash varieties. That’s it for an agenda. Karen is back from her trip to Arizona. She will be here for a few more days looking for a place to live. The surf is high from a southern storm. I want to watch it.

day 226

I did enjoy the center. Reminded myself that being there was a choice I made. Took the dogs to the harbor for a walk and it was a lovely afternoon. Today I’ll walk them at Wally’s before I dart in for a few items. Not my favorite place. It is an open day and besides walking I could use my energy around here but that isn’t calling. What can I do? The bales need to be pulled apart and distributed.

Day 225

Megan didn’t visit. She studied for mid-terms instead. Good choice. Today I am wavering about senior center duty. Some days I don’t want to be there. Some days I enjoy every minute and everybody. What’s true is I don’t want to stay home for a week without a purposeful activity. It is too easy to stay home, sit, watch TV and feel restless without finding a solution. OK, I’ll go and find a reason to smile and like being there.

Day 224

Oil Can Henry was a fun place to go. They checked the lights, washed the windows but didn’t change the oil because it didn’t need it. Hollie and I found the items we wanted. I have new walking shoes, brown pants, sweat pants, new purse, and lots of little things too followed by a delicious lunch. Today I’ll get my hair cut, walk a lot, and Megan will come for a short visit. It will be a good day too. 

Day 223

I did walk and pick up four bags of trash. Senior center was noisy and I wanted to run out the door and never go back. Maybe it’s time to move on but I’m afraid of staying home all week without a volunteer duty. Today Hollie and I are going to Brookings. I need new walking shoes as these have over 3 million steps on them. I want brown pants and shoes too. The car will visit Oil Can Henry.

day 222

I felt like all seven dwarfs plus weepy yesterday. All over the place with emotions. Finally settled down and relaxed. Don’t like these hot days. The bales are still producing even though they are falling apart. I want to save the chard and hope it lasts all winter. I ate a beautiful red bell pepper and there are more ready to pick. The garden has been the high point of the summer. Today I will walk before senior center duty.

Day 221

The wind was fierce. I let it move the trash. Today is Sunday. I’m hoping the church will have more people. It was uncomfortable to be the only one sitting in the pews. Later is the blessing of the animals in honor of St. Francis. Don’t know if I want to go. Maybe Fr. David would bless the dogs here. I did bring home pears and apples, and vegetables from the market and make a delicious soup with beef broth.

Day 220

And it was a semi-slug day. In spite of low physical energy, I accomplished house stuff and a walk to the post office. Today is starting with a mild headache and coffee will probably take care of it. Hollie and I will walk to the farmers’ market. I want pears. She wants apples. I enjoy seeing the changes in produce as the seasons change. Later, depending on the wind, I may pick up trash. It makes my walk more attractive.

Day 219

I accomplished all I set out to do yesterday and ended the day early. Woke up in the night with a migraine that is now retreating thanks to Imitrex. I’m glad that I did it but the aftereffects remind me of my age. Today I will take a walk but it’s doubtful that any trash will get collected. Bending down won’t feel good. I may have a slug day and that’s okay as long as it doesn’t become a habit.

Day 218

My second walk yesterday was full of chatter. I ran into Anita, Sheila, Eileen, and Mitzi and had lots of news exchanges. Today I’ll get my flu shot before grabbing up the Senior News and distributing some of them before senior center duty and finish up later in the afternoon. It will be a busy day with contacts and more catch-up time. Hollie and I had lunch after the last museum duty. I enjoyed her company and the Rueben sandwich.

October Senior News column

 Staying healthy is a life-long commitment. We all know that exercise and nutrition are the tools we have for building strong bodies. And there is one more important ingredient to a good life.

Two years ago I was diagnosed with non-anemia iron storage depletion caused by donating blood. It was the 107^th pint that brought a reaction that nearly did me in. For the previous eight years I went from doctor to doctor, had way too many x-rays, blood tests, was stuck in tubes and shot full of stuff that glows in the dark without having a diagnosis. I was losing the battle gradually but consistently over the years giving up physical energy, normal breathing, clear thinking and bone strength. 

Once I knew what was going on I was able to go forward with vigor to restore my body and my health. Nutrition, exercise, supplements and a healthy attitude were my priorities. One thing I know for sure is that while my health was failing, I continued to volunteer, walk, and eat well. I know I kept going because I did not sit down and give up even though I had updated my will, and written my obituary.

Giving of oneself as a volunteer, serving in whatever capacity is possible is a positive way to stay healthy. There is no substitute for service. It gives a reason for getting up in the morning and having a meaningful day. There are so many opportunities to help out in our communities. Most non-profits depend on volunteers to keep their doors open. It would only take a few minutes to find a comfortable place where skills and interests could fit in. By the way, I have found other volunteers who became best friends and a source of mutual support. Finding like-minded people provides whole new relationships.

Yes, I eat well. During this season I have been at every farmers’ market in addition to the produce from my straw-bale garden. The garden has provided the greens that are full of iron and calcium. I walk nearly every day with a five mile goal. I have had a fitbit tracking device for a year and find it motivating to get moving. At first I was happy to get one mile and day by day it became easier to walk longer and faster.

The best ways I know to get healthy and stay that way are being aware that each day brings chances to improve, praying and having faith in the life force. The Dalai Lama says, “Choose to be optimistic. It feels better.”

Day 217

Last day of volunteering at the museum for the season. I may show up on an occasional Saturday as the museum is open all year round. I enjoy Rick’s company and we have meaningful conversations while waiting for guests to show up for tours. Yesterday I sorted out one file in the drawer. Many more to do. I like to keep the papers current and store the old ones in boxes on top of the sauna. Good for extra insulation.

day 216

The straw-bales are coming apart. Their work is done. I will move the remains to other parts of the yard that can use the mulch to improve. Lots of the dirt is poor and the nutrients will make them fertile. This is pick-up-trash day. I usually bring home three grocery bags full from my regular walking route. If I want to walk in a clean place, then I will clean it. The dogs will get exercise too. Happy Tuesday morning. 

Day 215

I watched the moon from total eclipse back to white. It was beautiful. Yesterday I was the only congregant at church. The other six people were part of the service. I’m afraid my church is going to end. As much as I enjoyed the Pope, I don’t want to convert. The Pope said it isn’t necessary to be religious to be spiritual. It was also a day for house work, attention to the orchids, walking and walking with the dogs.

Day 214

I’m quite taken with the Pope. I admit watching him on TV and feeling Spirit. I hope he makes an impact and he is probably preaching to the choir. Today the orchids get first attention, then the walk followed by church. That’s the end of the agenda. I want to find something new to do with the rest of the day. I could reach around inside myself and find the part that wants to write. Full blood moon and eclipse.

day 213

Yesterday I felt slow and physically tired. I had to own my 80 years. Usually I don’t need to do that but the long day and the standing for hours made it clear. Today I’m back in shape and ready for the farmers’ market and visiting with Hollie and everybody else. Karen left for Arizona so I can move rocks again. My plan is to clear one area at a time and plant grass as I go. Long term goal.

Day 212

I woke up achy. It’s OK. Standing for over three hours for the prep and serving dinner was tiring. I’m already stretching out and feeling good again. Today is for errands and necessary shopping. Later I will go to the police department and meet with Elizabeth to write an article on volunteering for the facebook site and maybe for the newspaper. I may start out with trash collecting. Not sure yet if I want to do all the bending required.

Day 211

Yesterday was great: picked up three bags of trash on my walk, had meaningful conversations at the museum, prepped for the community dinner at church. I love days with parts. Today will begin with the usual walk about and senior center duty. I’m looking forward to Charlie’s pizza. He makes a delicious variety of pizzas. One for every taste. Then I will serve at the community dinner at church. My energy is staying high and I am enjoying every minute.

day 210

Now autumn begins. OK, I made a mistake. I’ve made a lot of them and lived. No big deal to err. It’s fixing it that matters. Yesterday was another good one. Walked in the almost rain and it felt good. Pulled up the tomatoes and hung them upside down on the fence. The theory is they will still ripen. One plant is so huge that I had trouble moving it. The bales are coming apart fast. New ones next season.

Day 209

Monday was another good day. I felt comfortable and engaged at the senior center. Lots of chatting and hugs. I like a day when I acknowledge belonging and right from the morning walk with the buddy waves and honks of recognition, I know I belong in this community. Today is board of sups meeting and I belong there too. Karen is staying in the little house for a few days. I like knowing I have a safe haven for her.

Day 208

Autumnal Equinox. Now the days shorten by minutes. I’m not excited about that and it is time to plan for the long nights. Time to get the candles out and schedule the day to take advantage of light. Last winter was so mild that I was outside nearly every day. Now I have two raincoats and motivation to walk and keep the seasonal depression to a minimum. Two walks yesterday and progress moving rocks. That may be a winter project. 

Day 207

I did redistribute lots of rocks and there are still lots of rocks. It will take a while and I will do it. I need help to pry up the crossbeams and put them where I can pile rocks behind them. The farmers’ market was wonderful, as usual. I bought green chilies and made green tomato salsa verde. Overcooked a bit but very good and I will make it again. Great use of the green tomatoes. Another good day coming.

Day 206

The energy lasted and I used it to move rocks in the little yard. My plan is to pile the rocks on the edges of the building and the fence and move some to the north side where there are rocks already. It will take time and then new dirt and grass. It will make it easier to maintain. I felt like Sisyphus when I started but as soon as I spotted dirt, I was hooked on getting it done.

Day 205

I want another day that I can mark as GOOD. It was wonderful yesterday to be busy and interactive without a headache or dearth of physical energy. The rain was making the blonde lawn do a happy dance. Today I want to pick up trash while I walk the regular route. Later the dogs will get a walk probably at the harbor. I want a home day enjoying the yard and pulling weeds. The bales need to be weeded too.

Day 204

Damp again. I did get to wear my lime green raincoat yesterday. Drivers can see me coming! I’ve had my fitbit for a year and have tracked 3,231,000 steps. It is motivating. At first I was happy to reach 5K steps a day and now I regularly hit at least 10K. I like the data and do check it often during the day. The museum was busy and it was interesting. I went up and down the stairs a lot.

Day 203

Rain is forecast. It will be welcome. I can wear my new raincoat to the museum! I’m still not 100% but surely better each day. I had a few energetic hours yesterday and was grateful for them. The soup was delicious and there are leftovers for today. Hollie is going to her annual girls’ fun time in Paso Robles. She will be gone for a week. Megan is healing from her dental extractions. The bales are still producing. I’m happy.

Day 202

And I did get a long walk and pick up three bags of trash. The senior center was busy and lots of conversations and laughing. My favorite combination. Today I need to focus on the housework and errands. When I begin to notice the dust I know I’m on the way to feeling well again. It was cool enough to turn on the heater for the orchids. I have soup bubbling with vegetables and freshly dug red potatoes. It’s fall. 

Day 201

No walk. No trash. No church. Sunday was another flat day. Here’s hoping for Monday and a regular active and happy day. I am sad on lost days. Time is important to fill with progress and positive intentions. I begin well and maybe I can push a bit at least. Today is senior center duty and I will show up. I will dress for this cool damp morning and get outside. Might be a short walk and I will walk.

Day 200

The market was a social occasion and I like that a lot. And the fruits and vegs are wonderful too. The crockpot full of beef, red potatoes, turnips, onions, garlic, and cabbage made the house smell delicious. The food will last a few days and I’m in favor of leftovers. Today I’m hoping for a walk before church. Maybe I’ll pick up trash. Haven’t decided yet if my head will allow for bending down. The orchids water therapy comes first.

Day 199

Not a good day again. Headache and generally still feeling unwell. I will walk to the farmers’ market later for fruit and vegetables. I want my zip back. Where does it go? If I had a clue what triggers the low spells, I would surely avoid it. Seems to me that I live a good life complete with exercise, nutrition, service and positive attitude. Sometimes it is not enough. So, I will do what I can and love life anyway.

Day 198

Only half my walk happened. Just no go-power. And I showed up for duty at the senior center. The air is smoky and stale. I can’t get enough breath. Hope for better today. I have shopping and errands to complete. The tomatoes are ripening. The nights are chilly but there is heating during the day and that’s good for them. There are do many. Next year I will not plant tomatoes. Two of the bales are falling apart. It’s fall.

Day 197

I had a great morning yesterday. Didn’t last and that’s OK. I did what I said I would do and that counts. Just showing up counts. I collected two bags of trash. Today I plan on stopping at PT for the upper body exes. No promise. I’ll see when I get there on my walk. Senior Center duty will come next. I invited the board of sups and hope one or two of them come during the month. Want more.

Day 196

The four leggers are relentless alarm clocks. 5 AM plus or minus five minutes and I am wide awake. It’s their stomachs that mark morning. Today I’m hoping for a surge of positive energy. I did all my activities yesterday but without zing. After the massage, I wanted to go to bed. Maybe I’ll pick up trash this morning or maybe not. Not planning on PT exercises. There are only four more museum duties until the end of the season.

Day 195

I did improve my mood yesterday and I’m thankful for it. Did negative sorting and am very clear on what I don’t want to do/be/have. So now I just have to fill in the blanks and then find a place where I can use myself productively and with fun people. Today will start as usual with exercise and walking. Later I’ll attend the board of sups meeting and the best part of the day will be a massage with Karen. 

Day 194

Today I will find something new to do/know/enjoy. Distraction will be set aside for a dark rainy day and this bright warm day will be well spent.  I can use my eyes, ears, and feelings to find people and activities that fit my abilities and go forward from there. Might be a simple accidental meeting or I might initiate new ideas. Time to make things happen instead of waiting for a stroke of brilliance that may not land as requested. 

PS
Walked a different direction. Listened to the sea lions sing along with the fog horn and remembered why I love living here. Came home and picked spinach, tomatoes, and onions and made eggs with garlic cheddar. Already a better day.

Day 193

I enjoyed the picnic. There were interesting and relevant conversations and catch-ups with friends. The progress for unions was told by our assemblyman and everyone was happy to hear it. Today will probably have the usual activities. The orchids will get attention, I’ll walk, pick up trash, attend church, and watch a Giants game. Aside from those things, I’m open to new plans. Maybe clean up the yard and the strawbale garden. It’s time to finish up the summer list.

Day 192

Thankfully yesterday improved by late afternoon and I did get to walk to the store. Today I’ll get to the farmers’ market and then to Beachfront Park for the Democrats’ Labor Day picnic. Looking forward to connecting with friends there. I am increasingly interested in politics and will participate with registering voters and whatever else fits my abilities. Lots of conversations yesterday: Cillay called with news about Joyce and Pat. I’m glad we keep in touch with our longtime friends.

Day 191

No dog walk yesterday. It was blowing a gale too strong for fun. Not well this morning with migraine and sinus stuff. Hope to improve. The tomatoes are ripening and I’m happy with them. Two people have asked for green ones that I supplied, one eats them green, the other makes a green tomato cake similar to an applesauce cake. I like to eat the red ones right off the vine. Almost turned on the heater this morning. Fall chill.

Day 190

I did it all yesterday! Walked the papers in town before the museum duty and drove the rest of them afterward. Glad to do it. Ran into an old friend and had a catch-up talk. It was early to bed so I didn’t watch the Giants game. Sleep was more important. Today the sky is clear.  Relief after the six weeks of smoke. Bless the rain. The dogs will get a walk when I get home from the senior center.

Day 189

Senior News finally arrived by UPS at 6:20 PM. Now I have to distribute before and after museum today and center tomorrow. I liked having last Fridays to do it all at once. Oh well, nothing lasts forever. I admit to irritation that the editor didn’t take care of finding a new delivery person since Josey gave her three months notice. Today is damp outside. Love it. I still have smoke symptoms in my sinuses but my chest doesn’t ache.

Day 188

September. There I go again wondering about the speed of time. Changes seem more difficult to internalize as I age. I know I waved goodbye to Jon and Chris and yet I look over the fence to see if they are there. I’m waiting for Josey to deliver senior news and I know she’s gone. My routine is stuck and I need to make room for whatever comes next. I keep my body flexible. Need the same for my mind.

Minnies' tenth birthday

Day 187

Monday again. Beautiful moon and stars to start the week. I’m getting used to the empty house next door. I hope the Parmentiers have an easy resettlement in Texas. Routine day coming up. At least that is what I’m expecting. There are days when I think I know what’s going on and that’s not it at all. I’m prepared for exercising, walking, senior center duty, and maybe, the senior news will arrive. If so, I plan to distribute them tomorrow.

Day 186

Light rain and it’s welcome. I’m going out to walk soon. I stocked up on fruit yesterday and then proceeded to munch on it all day. Maybe a need to clear the smoke out of my body. Also had a garlic binge. Hollie says it helps the immune system  too. Today the orchids get attention and the three new ones will get much needed food, bigger pots, and bark. I like my simple life style. Suits me to a T.

Day 185

Taking the brush was easy, cheap, and the dogs got cookies. What a deal! All errands and shopping done by 10 and then I rested. The day was hot, humid, smoky, and stagnant. Felt tired and sick. Went to bed. Had 10 hours of sleep and this morning is better. Blue sky and traces of rain. Hollie and I will walk to farmers’ market. I’m wanting fruit again. Love the peaches and pears. Parmentiers are leaving today. I’ll miss them.

Day 184

Picked up five bags of trash. Today I will simply walk to PT. No picking up as my back is sore.. Lots of errands and shopping today. I want to take the load of brush to the transfer station before the much anticipated rain later today. Don’t want it soggy and heavier to move. Yesterday was busy and I like days like that, days with parts. Even had a dog walk and bought a new orchid pot and bark mix.

Day 183

I like feeling content at the end of the day knowing that I have done my best for myself and the community. I picked up a bag of trash on my walk yesterday and will do it again today. We are all waiting for water to come out of the sky. Hopefully it will be more than a shower or two and aim at the fires. It’s sad to think of the trees burning. Animals are coming into populated areas.

Day 182

Good day coming up. The smoke yesterday was close and I was chided at PT for walking in it. Showers are expected by the weekend and will be welcome. Today I have an appointment at PT for adding mat exercises. First Linda will see how I’m doing and make any corrections I need. Yesterday she showed me a more effective way to do the resistance bands to get the most for my muscles. I’ll leave the museum five minutes early.

Day 181

It’s my half birthday. The first six months have been great. The two gifts I gave myself have improved my life: the smart phone and core conditioning at physical therapy. I’m still learning to use all parts of the phone and I am maintaining my strength with regular work-outs at PT. Yesterday I invited the police chief to lunch at the senior center. It was pizza day. He liked it. He and I talked about recruiting volunteers for the department.

day 180

I wrote GOOD for yesterday. Haven’t done that for a long time. I could breathe, walk at a good rate, had energy to take the dogs for a walk, and enjoyed the day. Now it’s Monday and I have a list: routine morning, make an appointment with Chief Minsal for planning, grocery shopping that I didn’t do, take care of the irritating person at the senior center, and watch the clearing process across the street. I am moving forward again.

Day 179

Saturday was slow again and I did walk and get fruit at the market. That was it for the day. Early to bed and a long sleep. Today I’ll get the orchids watered before I set out to walk, get the mat exercises done, and go to church. Later I’m off to Sarah for a deep massage. The days seem slow when I’m not energetic but the weeks simply disappear.  I have plans for adding projects to my activity routine.

Day 178

No energy yesterday. I did walk but a snail could have beat me. I did go to PT but couldn’t finish my routine. Oh well, I showed up and that counts. I could smell smoke when I picked up the paper. My humus was too wet, no eggs at the feed store, no used dog crates at the thrift stores, and the dogs walked at the harbor. It was a day for numbering all the good things in my life.

Day 177

I took the dogs for a walk in the afternoon when the wind cleared the air enough to go out. We went to Home Depot and they said sure walk around. There was another dog walker too. The senior center was busy and I like that. It’s the slow boring days that I get antsy for something new. Megan has plans for moving back in December. I want to get the little house painted, carpet cleaned, and the maintenance finished. 

day 176

Stepping out for the paper was awful. The smoke is right here. Maybe the wind will come up later and I can get out for a walk. Yesterday we had a very expensive vet visit and I guess it’s worth it to know that I’m doing a good job for my dogs. Megan is back to her work and is gearing up for school on Monday. The museum was busy and the people were interesting. Made the time fly by. 

Day 175

The wind changed to west yesterday afternoon so the dogs and I had a walk. It seems less smoky so far this morning. I would like a regular day: walk, PT exercises, museum duty, and a quiet afternoon. Megan wants the little house painted yellow inside to attract light. Soon the maintenance will be finished. Now I want the rocks in the little yard to disappear and grass to take their place. I’m tired of pulling weeds. I like progress.

Day 174

Couldn’t go out yesterday. Today is not good. I miss getting out and walking. It’s a big part of my life and I feel like a prisoner. Butters is here and will be until Thursday morning. Megan is making the most of their time together as she will be back to her school and work schedule soon. She is glowing. Must be the real thing. I can do indoor chores today as I promised to purge my closet. Must do.

Day 173

Butters spent the night again. Megan is in love with a guy who lives here. She works all day and drives up to spend time with him. Ain’t love grand! Today the dogs go to the groomer and I’ll walk and exercise while they are there. Then it’s senior center day and I will look for opportunities to be kind and to acknowledge kindness. I have smoke symptoms still and today the wind may clear out the worst of it.

Day 172

Yesterday improved as it went along. Hollie and I had a great time together and came home with the goodies. My head was fine but my phone was dead. I walked to USCellular and waited long enough to get many steps on the fitbit. Turns out I need to take the battery out once a week. I didn’t know that. It’s not an easy task. Anyway, I was surprised by how much I missed it. I’m tethered to my devices.

Day 171

It was a great energetic morning that lasted until noon. Eye exam was great. Dental exam was great. Headache that arrived, not great. This morning is having a slow start. Coffee is helping but I’m going to get Imitrex in a minute. Hollie is coming at 9. We are walking to the farmers’ market and check out the scene. I enjoy every minute that we spend together. Then she is going to the pool and I may go to bed.

Day 170

Yesterday was update day on my fitbit, AVG virus protection and Malware. It was also get a prescription at Walgreens day and that was 45 minutes of laughing at the inept and unprofessional way they run the pharmacy. Lucky for me there was a fellow waiter and we had fun. Today is also health update: Dr. E for an eye pressure check, and a trip to the dentist for regular checkup. I will go to PT for Swiss ball exercises.

Day 169

Did slow a bit and hope to get moving today. It is smoky and the air smells like the fire. It’s sad. I will walk unless the air feels unhealthy to breathe. I know Hollie has to keep her doors and windows closed. Senior Center duty and it will be crowded because the menu is pizza and ice cream! I’ll get the column written today and chase down photos of events at the center. September’s issue is aimed at centers.

Day 168

Yesterday was a good one. I like days with parts and that was how it was. Walk, board of supervisors meeting, PT with Linda to learn Swiss ball exercises, out to Karen’s for straw bale discussion and a heavenly massage. I laughed and enjoyed every minute. I woke up sick at 1 AM. I’m thinking it’s a UTI. I’ll go to the office early and get help. I don’t want to slow down for an illness. I’m on a roll.

Day 167

Yesterday was full of laughing. I loved every minute. Starting the day with exercise and walking seems to prime my pump and give me the energy that I want. Today, after I attend the board of supervisors meeting, I will go to the PT clinic and meet with Linda. She will go through my routine with me and suggest new exercises. I told her that I have invested in my health and want to keep getting interest on the investment.

Day 166

The crowd was dwindling at the fair so we spent most of the time talking to each other. It was interesting and I enjoyed the people. The smoke is making my eyes and nose run but I am going to walk anyway. My plan is to do PT exercises, come home and go to the senior center. I love waking up without a pain in my head. The baby dino kale is up and the Chinese greens are doing well.

Day 165

Yesterday was active and productive and I liked every minute of it. Today I’ll get a walk before church. It’s smoky and the Coon fire smoke is visible. Later I will walk to the fair and work in the Democrats booth. I did last year and enjoyed the conversations. I didn’t join in the meeting for “Looking to the future” at the park. Lurking until I’m sure it’s something I want to participate in. It looks like a positive intention.

Day 164

I did something fun! Walked to the fair, met Kathryn and we watched the 4-H kids show their sheep. We wandered through the pigs and enjoyed them. The flower show wasn’t as wow as usual. Not full of beautiful exhibits. I met a few other old people as it was our free day at the fair. Today back to basics: walk and fill up the empty refrigerator. Della is her bouncy self today so we will get out and walk.