August Balanced Life Monthly Goals - Review

My goodness, but, the days are flying by, aren't they?  We are at the end of August, already!

As I've explained before, my monthly balanced life goals are similar to the spokes of a wheel, with the length of each spoke representing my satisfaction in that area of my life, from 1 to 10, with 1 being most dissatisfied and 10 being most satisfied.  Ideally, all the spokes are of equal length and the wheel will roll along smoothly.  If the spokes are of unequal lengths, then, the resulting wheel will be lop-sided and wobbly.  My ratings for each segment are shown within the parentheses, with the beginning of the month ratings in black and the end of the month ratings in blue.

August Balanced Life Goals:

Spiritual: (9.5) (10):   The goal is to live a spiritually meaningful life:

- Continue with daily prayers and gratitude; focus on being positive and joyful - On-going.  Daily prayers are said, usually at night, before going to bed.  I also recite some prayers from time to time during the day, as well.  Gratitude is also a daily habit as I list 5 things I am grateful for, each day, and I have had many things for which to be grateful, this month, especially when it comes to my health.  I have been incorporating a joyful activity, each day, too, As for being positive, I try hard to be positive.

- Continue to practice meditation at home and at the temple- Daily meditation at home is on-going; however, I didn't go to the meditation sessions at the temple, this month (although I attended some of the Saturday prayer services or "puja" as they are called).

- Continue to cultivate non-attachment to material things by donating/decluttering more - I decluttered 31 items, this month.  Only a few of them went to the donations bag, however; the majority got recycled.

One of the sermons I attended at the temple, this month, also spoke of non-attachment to non-material things, such as negative emotions (anger, hurt, resentment, etc.).  Something to keep in mind.  

- Participate in prayer ceremony at the temple - Accomplished; participated in two.

- Attend the monthly rosary prayer gathering - Accomplished; gave cousin P a ride to it, as well.

I raised the rating to a 10 because I was able to participate in a couple of  ceremonies at the temple, this month.

House (9)(9):  The goal is a home that is pleasant, comfortable, and welcoming:

- Clean - do one deep cleaning task per week - focus on flea abatement! - In progress!  I don't want to say anything to jinx it, but, the flea situation has improved considerably!  I am still being vigilant and proactive, but, I've been able to relax a little bit!  I am also getting some deep cleaning tasks accomplished, bit by bit.

- Organize - continue to find a place for everything and keep everything in its place - Work in progress!  I did organize the cabinet under the sink in my bathroom and the one in the other bathroom has remained organized.  So, progress is being made!

- Well maintained - continue to implement the cleaning schedule - On-going, although I have been changing things around a bit with the cleaning schedule.  But, I'm still using it as a guideline.

I am keeping the rating at 9 because I haven't felt I've made a lot of improvements, just maintained.  9, however, is a good rating for this area.

Garden (8)(8):  The goal is a garden that is productive, yet drought tolerant:

- Maintain (water 2-3 times per week, depending on the temperature; weed) - The garden is being maintained. As I mentioned earlier, summer is not a very good time for my garden; it just gets too hot.  All I can do is water and wait for the cooler weather.  M tidied the area under the lemon trees, yesterday, pulling out the old four o'clock plants that were growing there, as they had started to die, pruning back some other overgrown plants, and mowing the grass.

I am keeping the rating at 8.

Daughter (10)(10):  The goal is to continue to have a close relationship with her:

- Daily texts, phone calls, and video chatting, etc. - On-going.  We've had some long conversations, recently, as we've had several things to discuss.  Chatting with her is one of the highlights of my day!

- Enjoy her planned visit in mid-August (for her friend's bridal shower) - We had a lovely time!  It was a relatively short visit and we didn't do much, but, spent time relaxing and just being together. 

A definite 10!

Family & Friends (10)(10):  The goal is to have a connection with family members and friends:

- Regular phone calls and emails - On-going; in addition, I called my cousin in Florida to check on him and his wife since they might be affected by Hurricane Dorian, and had a long phone conversation with one of my step-aunts, who updated me on all the members of the extended family!

- Will be seeing several members of the family and friends at this month's prayer gathering - Accomplished; saw several members of the family and friends, which is one of the reasons why I attend these prayer gatherings; also, gave cousin P a ride.

- Maybe get together with friend R for lunch - Accomplished; visited Hollyhock House with friend R and we went out to lunch, afterwards.  

Going to keep the rating at 10.

Community (10)(10):  The goal is to be involved in my community:

- Continue to participate in the blogging community - On-going.  I am enjoying being part of the blogging community.  

- Participate in the Summer Photo Scavenger Hunt - In progress; I posted on the second link up.  Need to find a few last photos before the final link up, next month!

- Weekly phone calls with neighbor T - On-going; have spoken to her a few times in between the weekly Sunday phone calls, as well.

- Continue to participate in the online group of which I am a member - On-going

In addition, I am beginning to participate a little more in the temple community, as well.  At one time, I was very active in the temple, but, I had to step back as I had too many demands on my time.  

I am going to keep this rating at 10.

Finances (10)(10):  The goal is financial security:

- Continue budgeting and spending mindfully, with purpose - On-going. 

 Health & Well Being (9)(9):  The goal is good health:

- Attend the medical appointments scheduled for August (3 appointments, so far) - Accomplished; there were 5 medical appointments, altogether, this month!

- Continue to work on the following life style changes: 

   - better diet - eat more vegetables, less carbs - Didn't quite manage to accomplish this goal!

   - better hydration - drink 8 x 8oz glasses of water, daily - Oh, my!  I was, apparently, quite dehydrated!  I have been managing to drink my 8 glasses of water since then, however! 

Ensuring I stay hydrated!

  - better sleep habits -  get 6-7 hours of sleep - On-going; I am getting the sleep, but, my sleep schedule is still very off!

   - more exercise - get back on a walking schedule - Once again, no comment!

- Lose the 5 lbs. I gained! - Nope, didn't lose, but, on the positive side, I didn't gain, either!

The life style changes are a work in progress, although I have done better with drinking more water.  In addition, I have a BIG positive in my health segment, this month, due to the NORMAL ultrasound results!  That was a huge relief!  Even though the cancer markers on the blood tests, done every 3 months have been consistently normal, I worried what the ultrasound results might show and was so thankful when it came back as normal! 

I am going to keep the rating at 9, because I did attend all the medical appointments, I have been drinking my 8 glasses of water, and the good ultrasound results.  

Time Management (8)(8): The goal is to spend my time in a mindful manner:

- Keep to a more regular schedule - Still a work in progress.  I really don't have a consistent daily schedule, although I've managed to follow the weekly cleaning schedule, to a certain extent, as even that got changed around a bit.  HOWEVER, the garden is getting watered twice a week, the indoor plants are getting watered once a week, I am staying on top of laundry, appointments are being kept, and bills are being paid on time.  It's the regular bed times and such that I struggle with.  

- Procrastinate less - Another work in progress!

I am going to keep the rating at 8 because the important things are being accomplished in a timely manner.

Leisure/Crafts/Hobbies/Me-Time (10)(10):  The goal is to relax doing something I enjoy doing for the pleasure of it.

- Engage in daily joyful activities - On-going.  Some days, it is a specific, planned activity, such as visiting a place or attending an event.  Other days, it finding joy in some everyday type of activity.

- Go on at least a couple of outings - Accomplished!  I visitedthe Hollyhock House with friend R and then, we enjoyed lunch out.  On another day, I revisited the Autry Museum (actually, I went there twice, because I got the free entry days mixed up!)  I enjoyed both these outings!  

I am keeping the rating at a 10.

That is my review of my goals for a more balanced life in August.  On the whole, I am pleased with the progress I made and what I was able to accomplish.

Did you make any goals for a more balanced life in August?  If so, how did you do?

August Decluttering

In August, I had a decluttering goal of 31 items (one for each day).  I didn't always declutter one item each day, but, I managed to declutter 31 items.  A few of them went to the donations pile; the majority got recycled (all paper, plastic, and glass)!  I didn't photograph each and every item, though!  Other than the crocheted blanket, everything else was a small item,.  I seem to have a lot of small items - jars, containers, bits and pieces.  They don't take up a lot of space, but, they add to the volume of STUFF! 

8/1 - 1 crocheted blanket:

8/2 - 1 fan
      - 1 completed crossword puzzle book :

8/5 - 1 stuffed toy:

8/7 - 5 annual reports/brochures

8/10 - 1 magazine

8/11 - 2 magazines
        - 4 glass jars

8/22 - 2 more glass jars

8/24 - 6 unused combs

8/26 - 4 laundry detergent scoops - each box of laundry detergent (I use powdered detergent) comes with its own plastic scoop.  I keep saving them, thinking I might be able to reuse them, but, I find that I don't reuse them. I did keep one, just in case!

8/30 - 1 jar jar
        - 1 magazine
       - 1 book

Items count: 31

I will continue with my decluttering in September, too.  It will be more "bits and pieces" and I might even add some "odds and ends" to them!  LOL!  Did you declutter anything this month? 

The Garden at the End of August

Scorched Succulents

The garden at the end of August is trying its best to outlast the heat of summer!  The euphorbias in the front garden are scorched as they get the hot afternoon sun.  I might consider replanting them somewhere else.

The side wall however, provides a little protection for the Stapelia or Starfish flower:

Starfish flower (genus Stapelia)

Yesterday evening, when I watered the garden, it was still a bud and the flower hadn't opened yet.  This evening, when I went to check on it, it had opened up and had attracted several flies, drawn to the flower by its smell which gives its other name, carrion flower.

In the back garden, where it is a little shadier, the belladonna lilies (also known as surprise lilies or naked lady lilies) are flowering!  Just a few weeks ago, I was commenting on another blog and saying that my lilies didn't bloom this year.  Then, I caught a glimpse of pink under an overgrown rose bush and there they were!

Amaryllis belladonna

"Surprise!"

M, who came to do the garden today, cut back some of the rose canes back so I could take the photos!

M also cleared the space under the lemon trees, where the miribilis or four o'clock plants were starting to die, did some other pruning and trimming, and mowed the grass for me.  I collected some of the miribilis seeds and scattered them in another area of the garden, with the hopes that they might germinate and start growing in those areas, too.  M and I spoke about consolidating some plants to bring more order to the garden, but we will do that when it is cooler.  The forecast calls for 100+F temperatures, this weekend. 

Today, I am grateful for:
- M helping me with the garden
- Garden flowers
- The plants that are managing to survive the summer heat
- Water for the garden
- The fruits that are forming on the lemon and orange trees

How is your garden at the end of August?  Will you be doing any fall planting?

More Cleaning on Wednesday

First of all, thank you, so much, everyone, for your comments on yesterday's post, for rejoicing with me on my good health news.  I appreciate that, very much.

The sound of voices and some hammering just outside my bedroom window woke me up, this morning.  I couldn't see who it was, but, I guess my neighbor T was having some work done in her side yard.  It was 9:00 a.m. and by regular people's schedules, not that early! 

I decided to get up then, and had my morning tea, checked my emails, and responded to all the lovely comments on my blog.

Then, I did the dishes.  I hadn't cleaned the burner trays and under the burners of my stove in some time, so, I decided to wash them in the dishwasher, along with the dishes.  Then, I sprinkled the top of the stove with baking soda and water and let it sit for awhile.  I thought about taking a "before" picture, but, I was too ashamed to do so!  I believe I've mentioned before that I am a messy cook!  Things had spilled and I hadn't wiped them up right away, so there was dried up/burned stuff under the burners!  The baking soda paste worked wonders, however, although I had to do it twice to get everything off!

Nice and Clean

Everything Back in Place 

Then, I put back the burner trays and everything back in place.  Of course, the stove top will get dirty the very next time I cook, but, for now, it is nice and clean!

I did another load of laundry, later in the day.

In between, I spoke on the phone with cousin P, took the bags of recycling out, checked the mail and this week's grocery ads, and read one of my library books. 

Today, I am grateful for:
- A clean stove
- Working appliances - Dishwashers, clothes washers, dryers, fans, etc.
- Hot and cold water on tap
- Electricity to run the appliances
- Library books

Today's joyful activity was spending the afternoon reading.

The only thing I did that was on my to do list for today was washing the dishes!  I didn't even bother to copy and paste it, here!  Everything else is being carried over to tomorrow's list.

Thursday's To Do List:
- Vacuum

- Clean the bathroom shelves

- Paperwork/filing

- Water the garden, front and back

How was your Wednesday?  What are your plans for Thursday?

Good News on Tuesday

The doctor's office called me this morning and the gynecologist spoke with me.  The ultrasound results are normal!  Thank goodness!  I am so relieved and happy!  My prayers have been answered!  Even though the cancer markers, etc., had been good, I had been nervous just in case they found something!  Of course, I ran to the altar and said a prayer of thanksgiving!  I am blessed!  Then, I texted the good news to my daughter and she rejoiced with me.  I also scheduled the repeat pap test for next week.  I want to get that done and over with, as well!

In the afternoon, I went to the Auto Club and filled out the additional paperwork required to renew my car insurance. 

Later, I did a load of laundry (one of my quilts) and video chatted with my daughter.

Today's joyful activity was receiving the good news from the doctor!

Today, I am grateful for:
- The good news about the ultrasound results
- Answered prayers
- Being blessed
- Helpful staff at both the bank and the auto club
- Free tote bags from the auto club

Tuesday's To Do List:
- Call the doctor's office - DONE
- Go to the Auto Club - DONE
- Water the houseplants - DONE
- Other things as needed - DONE (Laundry; a call to the bank, etc.)

Wednesday's To Do List:
- Paperwork and filing
- Clean the bathroom shelving unit
- Do the dishes
- Vacuum

How was your Tuesday?  What are your plans for Wednesday?

Memories on Monday

This past weekend, I celebrated the anniversary of my arrival in this country, 45 years ago!  I had left my country of birth, almost a year before that, with my mother and step-father, at the end of August, in 1973.  I was 17 then.  I spent almost one year, travelling through parts of Asia with them.  We spent a little over two months in Malaysia, where we visited with family and friends.  Then, we went to Hong Kong for several weeks, visiting with family.  After that, we went to Taiwan, where we had more family and where my mother accepted a teaching position for a term.  After that, we went back to Hong Kong.

My mother and step-father stayed there for nearly three years, but, in August 1974, I came over to the United States to attend university.  I was 18; it was my very first time going anywhere without my mother!  I still remember that flight, as if it was yesterday - from Hong Kong to Seoul, South Korea where I had to transfer planes, where my travel agent had omitted to book me on the connecting flight and I was worried that, if I delayed, I would miss the rest of my connecting flights!  The personnel at the airport were a bit suspicious of me since my name was not on the passenger list for the connecting flight and I had to undergo a physical security check, but, finally, they let me board the flight!  Then, to Honolulu, Hawaii, which was my port of entry and I had to go through Customs.   I remember the Customs officer giving me a hard time about some bars of chocolate I had with me!

From Honolulu to Los Angeles International Airport.  I had to get from the International terminal to the domestic flights terminal for my next flight.  I went to the airline counter, but it was closed and I had no idea where to go. A gentleman who was on the same flight from Honolulu (I had seen him as we were getting off the plane; he had been with a lady and a little girl) approached me and introduced himself as a former employee of that airline and asked if he could help!  I explained that I needed to catch my next flight and he said he'll show me the way.  I trusted him on the strength of having seen him on the plane with a lady who I assumed was his wife (she wasn't with him at this time, though), and followed him, at night, through a parking lot, to the other terminal!

There, I waited for several hours until my flight was called.  From Los Angeles to Chicago, from Chicago to Milwaukee, from Milwaukee to Green Bay, Wisconsin!  By the time I arrived at my destination, I had been flying for two days, crossed the International Date Line, and lost a day in the process!  I had also lost one of my suitcases!  By the time it was located at the Los Angeles airport and forwarded to me, it had been broken into and several items stolen, including a new, portable typewriter which had been my parents' gift to me.  The replacement typewriter they sent led to a long lasting friendship with a lady who worked at the post office!

Oops!  I just realized that I had written about my arrival in this country in a previous post, too!  You know you've been blogging too long when you start repeating yourself in posts!  Or, maybe I'm getting old: "Did I tell you about the time I _____________ (fill in the blank)?"  "Only about a dozen or so times, dear."  LOL.  Oh, well, that other post has more details, if anyone is interested!

It's been another day of phone calls.  Neighbor T called, again, this morning, and we chatted a bit.

Later, I called the doctor's office to see if they had received my ultrasound results.  They had received them, but, the doctor has not reviewed them, yet.  They said they will call me, tomorrow, after the doctor reviews them.  If they don't call, then, I'll call them, again.

I also received a call from the Auto Club about my membership and car insurance renewal.  They had sent me a form to sign, earlier, and I had gone in person to the office to discuss it with one of their agents and I was told to disregard it.  But, now, they are calling me about it, again.  I will go back to the office, tomorrow, and discuss this whole matter again, with another agent!  It's a good thing I am retired and have time to do all this, isn't it?

In between phone calls, I changed my bed sheets and did a load of laundry.  After tea, I took the trash can to the curb (only the black garbage bin) and watered the garden.

Today, I am grateful for:
- Events that took place 45 years ago
- Memories
- Friendships
- Library books
- Cooler evenings


Monday's To Do List:
- Change my bed sheets - DONE
- Do laundry - DONE
- Vacuum - DONE
- Water the garden - DONE
- Take the trash cans to the curb - DONE
- Pay the phone bill - DONE

Tuesday's To Do List:
- Call the doctor's office
- Go to the Auto Club
- Water the houseplants
- Other things as needed

Restful Sunday

I had a very restful day on Sunday.  I slept in - the good news is, I got eight hours of sleep; the bad news is, I slept away practically the whole morning! 

I was having my "morning" cup of tea (it was noon by then!) when neighbor T called for our Sunday morning chat.

In the afternoon, I changed the dust sheets on the family room sofa and did a couple of loads of laundry.  The rest of the day, I read, watched some TV, chatted with my daughter, played online games, and took it easy.

On Sunday, I was grateful for:
- Being able to sleep in
- Weekly phone calls with neighbor T
- Working appliances (washing machine, fans, etc.)
- Interesting programs to watch on TV
- A good friend sharing her thoughts and opinions with me

Monday's To Do List:
- Change my bed sheets
- Do laundry
- Vacuum
- Water the garden
- Take the trash cans to the curb
- Pay the phone bill

How was your Sunday?  What are your plans for Monday?

Friday and Saturday

I took it easy on Thursday evening, partly because my daughter called me when she got back from work, as she usually does, and we proceeded to talk for three hours straight!  She usually tells me all about her day, when she calls (even when she was going to school, she'd tell me about her day in great detail, something I really appreciated).  On Thursday, she had a lot to say and we had a lot to discuss!  Almost all of it was good stuff (she received a merit raise!), but, by the time we got off the phone, it was past 9:00 p.m.!  It was too late to water the garden and I decided that the housework can wait!

On Friday, I did two loads of laundry and I cleaned the kitchen.  Kitchen cleaning included washing the stove vent hood and some of the kitchen cabinet fronts.  I have white kitchen cabinets which I love, but, they show every splash and drip and I tend to be a very messy cook!  

Clean Kitchen Cabinets

I washed most of the upper cabinet doors and some of the lower cabinets.  The rest will be done another day.  The walls need to be washed, too (especially the area behind the stove!), and the ceiling and, well, there's no end once you start, is there?  

When M came to do the garden, in the evening, I spent a good half an hour or so chatting with him about various things before he cut the grass and watered the garden for me.  

Later in the evening, my daughter and I had another three-hour long conversation, but we video chatted, this time!  It was past 1:00 a.m. when we said goodnight! And then, I called her!  LOL.

I had been waiting all day long to see if either of my doctors would call or send me a message about my test results, but, neither did.  Then, later in the evening, I remembered that my new primary care physician has an online patient portal where I can access my records.  I checked and sure enough, my recent lab test results were posted there!  I was happy to note that one reading had gone back down to even below the June lab test results, indicating that I am no longer dehydrated!  A second number, indicating kidney function, had gone down a bit from the July lab results, but, wasn't quite as low as the June reading.  Maybe that takes a bit longer than a few days of being hydrated to show results.  But, I am not too concerned.  I will have another blood test done in mid-September, before I go for my oncologist appointment and if the numbers are still elevated, then, we'll worry about it.  In the meantime, I will continue to drink my water!  I found an easy way to keep track of my water intake - every morning, I write the numbers from 1 to 10 on a piece of masking tape and put on the outside of my glass, then, as I drink, I cross the numbers off!  The glass holds 16 oz. or two cups, or one American pint:  

Keeping Track of Water Intake!

Today, I did some paperwork in the morning and had a shorter conversation with my daughter.  Aunt C called and we chatted for a bit, too.  

Then, I cleaned the cabinet under the sink in my bathroom:

Bathroom Under Sink Cabinet

I emptied the drawers, wiped them, and returned things to them.  The lower drawer contains some personal care items, the upper one has hair care appliances - hair dryer, curling iron, and a straightener (from when my daughter wanted her wavy hair straightened - it didn't work too well on her very thick hair, though!)

Cabinet - Before 

The cabinet under the sink wasn't too bad.  Cleaning products in the blue plastic basket, spare light bulbs and other items (new toilet valve, tube of tub caulking, etc.) in the plastic shoe box, an unopened box of wet wipes behind it (part of my emergency/earthquake supplies, for when access to clean water might be limited).

Again, I pulled everything out, wiped down the bottom of the cabinet with a damp microfiber cleaning cloth, and sprayed it with flea spray as a precaution.  Then, I took everything out of the two containers, washed the containers, wiped down the items, consolidated what I could (poured what I had left in the bigger bottle of floor cleaner into the bottle I keep under the kitchen sink), tossed a broken nightlight bulb, and put everything back:

Cabinet - After

The box of wet wipes fitted inside the blue basket.  I might look for a two tier drawer unit, or something like that, to make more efficient use of the space to the left, where the blue basket is, but, for right now, this arrangement works out well, enough.  

Today, I decluttered 6 small unused combs.

The Temple is having another Bodhi Puja/blessing ceremony, this evening, and I am planning to attend it.  

Today, I am grateful for:

- The blood test results seem to be headed in the right direction

- Daughter received a raise

- Getting some deep cleaning done

- Long conversations with daughter, family, and friends

- The opportunity to go to Temple

How is your weekend coming along?

Ultrasounds on Thursday

I had my ultrasounds done, today  (there were two; one of them, intrusive).  My appointment was for 2:00 p.m., I was told that check-in time was 1:30 p.m.  I left home at 12:20 p.m. just in case there was traffic congestion.  There was quite a lot of traffic, but, I got to the hospital a little after 1:00 p.m.  I went prepared to wait, with a book to read,  But, I didn't have a very long wait.  I was checked in after short wait and called in for the ultrasound after another short wait.  You know you've been to the radiology department too often when staff there recognize you from your previous visits!

The procedures took a little time.  But, the person doing them was very nice, explaining everything to me and being very gentle.  She said the radiologist will take a look at the ultrasound results and send the report to the doctor either tomorrow or by Monday, that I should call the doctor's office on Monday or Tuesday.  I am hoping that the results will be normal, but, if they find something, then, it is something that can be treated.  I wanted to say that I hope it would be at an early stage, but, according to what I've been told, since I've already had breast cancer, any other new cancers I might get will automatically be considered Stage 4.  I left the hospital a little after 3:00 p.m. and came home by 4:00 p.m.

I had eaten half an almond croissant for breakfast.  I had lunch when I came home - the last of the frozen lasagna and the other half of the almond croissant.

I will have a cup of tea in a little bit (it's just after 5:00 p.m., right now).

I am still planning to clean the kitchen and water the garden, later this evening; maybe even do a load of laundry.  But, for right now, I just want to sit on the sofa and relax.  Maybe read a bit and maybe even take a nap!  I not tired, but, I feel drained.

Today, I am grateful for:
- Medical insurance
- Modern diagnostic tools
- Helpful staff at the hospital
- Parking validation (I only had to pay $3)
- A safe drive to the hospital and back (drove past two accidents on the way)

Thursday's To Do List:
- Go for the ultrasound - DONE
- Clean the kitchen
- Water the garden

Friday's To Do List:
- Vacuum
- Tidy the cabinet under the sink in my bathroom

How was your Thursday?  What are your plans for Friday?

Wednesday's Activities

SPSH #14 A Handwritten Sign

I am still looking for a good handwritten sign for the Summer Photo Scavenger Hunt, but there was this display of mostly handwritten signs on the wall at the Autry Museum, collected from Griffith Park, which is a very popular place to hold various parties and celebrations.  Unless I find a better sign to photograph, this will be my photo for this prompt.


I went for my repeat blood test, today.  The doctor had not only faxed the lab request, but had submitted an online request, as well.  I didn't have to wait at all and was in and out of there in less than 15 minutes.  I am hopeful that the blood test results will be better, this time around.  The pharmacy had texted me this morning, to inform me that my inhaler was ready for pick up, so I went there after the blood test and picked up my inhaler.  Then, I went to the grocery store and picked up some goodies to take to the temple, later in the week.

After I came home, I had lunch (a frozen lasagna) and texted my doctor to let her know that I did the blood test and to inform her that I will be doing the ultrasound, tomorrow.

It was a hot day, today; I decided to take it easy and read for a bit and took a nap on the sofa.  Later, when it had cooled off a bit, I cleaned both bathrooms.  I still need to tidy the cabinet under the sink in my bathroom, but, that will be done another day.

Today's joyful activity was reading (and napping!)

Today, I am grateful for:
- The doctor had faxed the paperwork and everything was was there when I went
- Pleasant staff at the lab
- Not having to wait a long time
- Afternoon naps
- Books to read


Wednesday's To Do List:
- Lab test - DONE
- Pharmacy - DONE
- Clean the bathrooms - DONE
- Vacuum (maybe) - Will do on Friday

Thursday's To Do List:
- Go for the ultrasound
- Clean the kitchen
- Water the garden

I am not planning to do a lot of things tomorrow.  Going to take it easy and relax.

How was your day, today?  What have you planned for Thursday?

An Outdoor Clock on Tuesday

SPSH #1: An Outdoor Clock

I've spent a relatively quiet day, today.  I gave Dancer his flea medications, watered the indoor plants, dusted, and brought in the emptied trash can.

Then, I called the hospital's outpatient radiology to schedule my ultrasound, since I received the authorization in the mail, yesterday.  The hospital, however, said they hadn't received the doctor's orders.  So, I called the doctor's office and asked them to fax the orders to the hospital.  I waited about 15 minutes and called the hospital again, and, at first, they claimed they hadn't received anything, then, they checked again, and found the fax.  The appointment was scheduled for Thursday, at 11:30 a.m., with a check-in time of 11:00 a.m.  Ten minutes later, the hospital called back and asked if I can come at 2:00 p.m., instead (check-in time of 1:30 p.m.).  Actually, an afternoon appointment works out better for me (I don't have to get up extra early!).  So, the appointment is for Thursday afternoon.

After brunch, I went to the library to return the books that were due.  I had been unable to finish reading the book about the dictionary wars, so I checked it out, again, along with a new book. I also browsed in their "book store"; I was tempted, but didn't buy any!  The library was holding an adult coloring activity, in the evening, and I considered participating in it, but, I decided not to. 

There is a private, church affiliated school next to the library and I was able to take some photographs for the Summer Photo Scavenger Hunt, prompt #1: An Outdoor Clock.  Ah, but it is not a regular clock:

Commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence

The clock tower on the main building (a replica of the old Pennsylvania State House, which is also known as Independence Hall), features two clocks that are frozen in time!  On the north side of the tower, it shows 8:00 p.m., with the date, July 4, 1776, commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  On the south side of the tower, it shows 4:00 p.m., with the date, Sept. 17, 1787, commemorating the signing of the Constitution of the United States:

Commemorating the signing of the U.S. Constitution

After I came home, I had tea and relaxed.  Later, I video chatted with my daughter.  I will clean Dancer's litter box as soon as I finish this post.

Today's joyful activity was visiting the library.

Today, I am grateful for:
- I was able to schedule the ultrasound
- Flea medications
- Libraries
- Quiet, relaxed days
- Video chatting with my daughter

Tuesday's To Do List:
- Water the indoor plants - DONE
- Dust the house - DONE
- Go to the library to return books - DONE
- Call hospital to schedule ultra sound - DONE
- Do laundry - DIDN'T need to

Wednesday's To Do List:
- Lab test
- Clean the bathrooms
- Vacuum (maybe)

Going to keep the list short and sweet!  I might wait and vacuum on Friday, instead.

How was your day?  What are your plans for Wednesday?

Daughter Goes Back on Monday

Dancer Claims the Laundry Basket

My daughter went back to Berkeley, today.  We spent a quiet morning, together; then, after lunch, she packed her bags.  I packed up the frozen salmon steaks, some curry puffs I had also frozen, and the last bit of leftover Thai food for her to take back with her.

I dropped her off at the airport by 2:00 p.m.  She will be returning for her friend's bachelorette party, early next month, so I'll see her again in about 3 weeks.  Barely any time to miss her.  She called to let me know when she reached her apartment, safe and sound.

My plans for the day changed a little bit when the pharmacy texted me, in the morning, that two prescription refills were ready for pick up.  So, after I dropped my daughter off at the airport, I drove straight to the pharmacy to pick up my medications.

Then, since the dollar store adjoins the pharmacy, I went there for a few items.  They had packages of fresh mint, each containing three big bunches of mint, for $1 and I bought a package.  I also bought a butter lettuce, some crackers, cans of coconut milk and mackerel to replace the cans I have used, a jar of mango preserves to try, some snacks, and a mop.  My total came to $13.10, with the mop; the groceries and snacks came to $12.00.  I wanted to buy some bananas, too, but their bananas didn't look so good.

Instead, I went to the grocery store in the same shopping mall and I bought the bananas from there, as well as bread ($1.49 and $1), bagels ($1.99), cream cheese ($1.69), a small container of half and half ($1.79), green beans ($1.49/lb), a cucumber ($.50), and corn (4/$1).  I also bought a small container of ice cream ($1.99) and a bag of tortilla chips ($3.49) as I have been craving some!  My total came to $16.34.

Today's grocery shopping came to $12 + $16.34 = $28.34

My August grocery budget is $75.

Spent to date = $13.84 + $1.99 + $5.95 + $20.64 + $28.34 = $70.76
Balance left in the budget = $75 - $70.76 = $4.24

I think I need to avoid grocery stores for the rest of this month!

After I came home from my shopping and had tea, I watered the garden, took the trash can to the curb (only one, this time; the yard waste bin and the recycling bin didn't need emptying), and did the dishes.

My daughter, after she got home, did some grocery shopping at her dollar store:

Daughter's Dollar Store Purchases

And cooked rice and a vegetarian dish to take to a potluck at her office, tomorrow:

Stir-Fried Vegetables with Red Curry Almond Butter Sauce

She added some tofu to this dish, after she took the photo, after asking me if I thought she should and I said to go ahead.  It's the first time she made this sauce, she said, and she made a triple batch, so she has some for herself for later.

Today, I am grateful for:
- Daughter had a safe flight back
- Dropping her off at the airport without an incident
- Drama-free prescription refills
- Ultra sound authorization received in the mail
- Water for the garden


Today's joyful activity was enjoying the cup of coffee my daughter made for me.

On my To Do List for Monday:
- Take daughter to the airport - DONE
- Clean the fridge - DONE
- Take the trash cans to the curb - DONE
- Water the garden - DONE
- Do the dishes -  DONE
- Renew library books - Renewed one; the others can't be renewed again

Tuesday's To Do List:
- Water the indoor plants
- Dust the house
- Go to the library to return books
- Call hospital to schedule ultra sound
- Do laundry

How was your Monday?  What have you planned for Tuesday?

Sunday

Yards of Skirt!

Daughter went out to breakfast with neighbor S's two daughters, today.  I spent a quiet morning, responding to blog comments, reading other blogs, chatting on the phone with neighbor T, and playing online games.  When daughter came home, she brought me a Belgian waffle, topped with sliced banana and strawberries, with the syrup and whipped cream in separate little containers, for my brunch!  Yum!

In the afternoon, daughter tried on her bridesmaid dress and I pinned the hem while she took a nap.  I have to take the dress in a little bit at the waist, too.  Her friend's wedding isn't until October, so I have plenty of time to adjust the dresses. 

We decided to spend the rest of the day relaxing at home.  We had leftover Thai food for dinner and fruit for dessert, although I'm craving chocolate chip cookies!  I did snack on a few chocolate chips, though!

Daughter flies back out, tomorrow afternoon.  I have things in the freezer to send back with her - curry puffs and salmon.

Today, I am grateful for:
- Daughter bringing me a totally indulgent breakfast!
- Being able to sew
- Spending another day with my daughter
- More talking about this, that, and the other
-  Pleasant weather - sunny, but, not too hot

My joyful activity for the day was spending time with my daughter.

On my To Do List for Monday:
- Take daughter to the airport
- Clean the fridge
- Take the trash cans to the curb
- Water the garden
- Do the dishes
- Renew library books

How was your Sunday?  What are your plans for Monday?

Saturday with Daughter

Thank you, everyone, for your kind comments about yesterday's incidence at the airport.  It upset me, a bit, but, I'm glad nothing else happened other than some name calling. 

Today was a new day.  My daughter's friend came to pick her up to take her to their mutual friend's bridal shower.  After daughter left, I replied to blog comments, read and commented on a few other blogs, did a load of dishes, and cleaned the kitchen, including wiping down the upper cabinet fronts where something had splashed on them. 

When my daughter and her friend returned from the bridal shower, my daughter's friend put on the dress she will wear to the wedding (both she and my daughter will be bridesmaids) as I had offered to shorten the dress for her.  There is a built in slip and a double layered full circle skirt!  I measured and pinned what seemed like yards and yards of fabric!  She tried it on again to see if the length was good.  It's a long dress and she's not sure what shoes she'll wear with it, but, she didn't think they'll have a higher heel than what she was wearing today, so it should be good.  I told her I will cut off the excess fabric and sew the hem, later in the week, and let her know when it was ready.  Tomorrow, I need to have my daughter wear her dress so I can measure the length of her skirt.

Breakfast had been a peach.  For lunch, I reheated some pot roast I had frozen earlier and cooked some corn to go with it.  Later, daughter made me a cup of coffee, which I had instead of tea.  For dinner, daughter and I bought some Thai take out and later, we went out to get soft serve ice cream cones! 

We had been invited to the birthday party of a member of the extended family.  But, daughter and I decided to stay home and just spend time being together.  So, when cousin P called to ask if we were going to the party, I said no, we were going to stay home.  I think both daughter and I preferred that and we spent the evening talking about various things. 

I've managed to drink a little more than 9 cups of water, today.  I added some mint leaves to the water and that helped! 

Today's joyful activity was spending time with my daughter.

Today, I am grateful for:
- Spending time with my daughter
- Her friend gave her a ride to the bridal shower and back
- Our favorite Thai food for dinner
- Soft serve ice cream cones! 
- Conversations with my daughter

Saturday's To Do List:
- Finish cleaning the kitchen - DONE
- Shorten the dresses for daughter and her friend - STARTED
- Put away the last load of laundry - DONE
- Maybe go out to dinner with daughter - DONE (brought dinner home to eat)

Sunday's To Do List:
- Spend more time with my daughter

How was your Saturday?  What are your plans for Sunday?

Daughter Comes Home on Friday

I was quite worn out, last night, and went to sleep by 1:30 a.m. and slept till 10:00 a.m.  (I got up once at 9:00 a.m., but, went back to sleep.)  Then, after my morning tea, etc., I started on the laundry!  First, I changed the sheets on daughter's bed and washed them.  Then, I changed the sheets on my bed and washed them.  Next, I changed the dust sheets on the family room sofas and washed them.  Finally, I did a load of clothes. 

The gynecologist's office called to say that the ultra sound referral has been authorized.  They will mail me a copy of the authorization so I can call and make the appointment.  We agreed that I will do the ultra sound, first, and then, when the results are in, I will make an appointment to redo the other test.  That way, if the ultra sound results need to be discussed, that can be done at the same time.

I've been drinking my water, today.  I realized that I drink more water when it is at room temperature than when it is iced!  I am on my 9th cup of water.

In the evening, I vacuumed the house and started cleaning the kitchen (didn't quite finish).

Then, it was time to go to the airport to pick up my daughter.  She's home for the weekend to attend her friend's bridal shower (especially since she's one of the bridesmaids).

Daughter flies into the Burbank airport, which is closer to my home than the Los Angeles International Airport, and which is a much smaller airport and not quite as busy.  Today, however, it was rather busy, with a long line of vehicles driving up to pick up or drop off passengers.   As I approached the arrivals area, I saw a space between two vehicles and I pulled in there, trying hard not to hit a woman who was standing in the road, waiting for her ride.  At the same time, I heard the parking attendant yell at her to stand on the curb.  My daughter was waiting at the curb for me and in the minute or so she took to reach the car, the car in front of me pulled out.  I suppose I should have pulled forward, but, my daughter had already opened the door to put in her carry-on bag and I didn't want to move forward, in case something happened to her!  That angered the woman who was waiting for the car behind me and I got called a "rude b---h" and a "f-----g" something or the other...I didn't hear the rest of it because daughter had already got into the car by then and we left!  I wasn't at the curb for more than two minutes!  The whole incident left me feeling a bit shaken, however, and daughter was angry on my behalf.  Oh, well, at least we weren't shot at, and, as I told my daughter, I have something to blog about, tonight! 

On the way home from the airport, we stopped at the grocery store to buy some half-and-half for daughter's morning coffee (it was something I was going to do earlier today, but, didn't).  We had salmon and rice for dinner, with lentils, green peas, and tomato chutney.  Fresh mangoes for dessert.

Tomorrow, daughter's friend will give daughter a ride to the bridal shower.  Afterwards, her friend, who is also going to be a bridesmaid, will bring her bridesmaid dress to be shortened.  I need to shorten daughter's dress, too.

Today's joyful activity is being with daughter.

Today, I am grateful for:
- My daughter is home for the weekend and she had a safe flight
- What I was able to accomplish in terms of housework
- The ultra sound referral was authorized by insurance
- M tended to the garden and watered it for me
- A clean house


Friday's To Do List:
- Vacuum - DONE
- Clean the kitchen - STARTED
- Remake daughter's bed - DONE
- Remake my bed - DONE
- Change sofa dust sheets - DONE
- Do laundry - DONE
- Pick up daughter from the airport - DONE

Saturday's To Do List:
- Finish cleaning the kitchen
- Shorten the dresses for daughter and her friend
- Put away the last load of laundry
- Maybe go out to dinner with daughter

When we don't know which way to turn

How was your Friday?  What are your plans for Saturday?

Doctor's Appointment on Thursday

Today, I went to my appointment with the radiation oncologist - it was a routine follow-up visit.  I mentioned that I had received the mammogram results (they had the more detailed report that goes to the doctors; the patient only receives the form letter stating if the results were normal or needs further testing) and the radiation oncologist said that the report was good.

I also mentioned that I had been to see the new primary care physician and the gynecologist and that the primary care physician had some concerns about the lab test results and I haven't called the gynecologist's office to find out the results of that test, yet.  The nurse was able to pull up the lab test results for both procedures and showed them to the radiation oncologist.  He was very concerned about the differences in some of the lab test results when compared to a similar lab test done in the previous month and in March, as well.  In fact, he was concerned enough to call the primary care physician, who didn't have the benefit of the prior lab test results (she had made a note of those higher than normal levels and suspected that I might have been dehydrated and told me to drink more fluids).  She wasn't in the office when he called, but, he gave me a copy of the earlier lab report to give to her as soon as possible (I mentioned I had an appointment with her in October, but I was told not to wait until then).

When I got home, I found a message on my voicemail from my primary care physician as well as a message on the doctor/patient online site, stating she got the message from the radiation oncologist and expressing her concern about the lab test results.  She thinks I might be very dehydrated and has urged me to drink plenty of fluids.  She also wants me to do a repeat lab test, early next week.  She asked me to contact her office and give the phone number of the diagnostic lab I go to so she could fax the lab test request directly to them.  I called the office and gave the information to her receptionist; I also sent a message to the doctor, herself, with the information (address and phone number of the diagnostic lab).

As for the pap test results - according to the lab report, they were unable to make a determination due to insufficient amount of sampling material!  The gynecologist's office confirmed that, when I called them, and told me I will have to have the procedure done, again!  Oh, no!  I am not looking forward to that!  I didn't want to make an appointment, right away, and said I'll call back!  Let me just get this dehydration issue taken care of, first!

On my way home from the doctor's office, I put gas to the car.  I considered putting gas at the Arco station near the doctor's office at $3.49/gal., but, decided to try the Arco station near my house, instead.  I was glad I decided to do that, because I paid $3.29/gal. at the station closer to home.

It was 97F, outside, when I got home.  But, the house was only in the 80s and that's very comfortable for me.  I did put the fan on.

I had eaten a banana for breakfast.  Lunch was tuna salad on crackers with grapes to follow.  Dinner will be rice with the last of the green beans, lentils, and either salmon or sausage (or both).

I have been making a conscious effort to drink more water since I came home.  I do not want to have a repeat of the time when I fainted in the bathroom from being dehydrated.  I still have a dent in my forehead from that night, where my head hit the edge of the shower door sliding rails! I am glad the doctors think it is dehydration and not something worse.  I am also glad that it was detected before anything bad happened!

I took it easy after I came home.  I am a little stressed by the day's events.  So, I've given myself permission to not do any housework until tomorrow!  That's my excuse and I am sticking to it!  It means that tomorrow will be a busy day, but, hopefully, I'll be able to get everything done.


Today, I am grateful for:
- The blessing of caring medical personnel
- The ability access lab reports online
- My dehydration was detected when it was
- A safe drive to the doctor's office and back
- Being able to take it easy


Thursday's To Do List:
- Doctor's appointment (radiation oncologist) - DONE
- Put gas to the car - DONE
- Buy or make a birthday card
- Vacuum
- Clean the kitchen (can be done on Friday)

Friday's To Do List:
- Vacuum
- Clean the kitchen
- Remake daughter's bed
- Do laundry
- Pick up daughter from the airport

How was your Thursday?  Are you drinking enough fluids?  What are your plans for Friday?

Warm on Wednesday

First thing, this morning, even before I made myself a cup of tea, I checked to see if the packages my daughter had ordered (bridal shower and wedding gifts for a friend of hers) had been delivered, and was happy to see that they were both on my front door steps when I opened the door.  I had intended to buy a roll of gift wrap for daughter to wrap her gifts, but I was able to find the remnants of a roll of wedding themed gift wrap in my stash - I sent a picture of it to my daughter for her approval and she was happy with the design.  I was happy to cross that errand off my to do list!

It was rather warm, today (not hot; we were only about 96 or 97F; the fans were sufficient).  I did a load of laundry, cleaned the bathrooms, cooked the salmon steaks, and did dishes, but, I didn't feel like vacuuming or going out to put gas to the car, etc.  Instead, I watched some TV and knitted:

New Socks (SPSH #18: Something That Should Be Found In Pairs)

I knitted the cuffs with yarn that was leftover from the other pair of socks I knitted, earlier.  Of course, now I have more of the grey wool, leftover! 

After I took the photo, I realized that it would be a good photo for the Summer Photo Scavenger Hunt, prompt #18: Something that should be found in pairs! 

I guess I won't need these photos I took at the Autry Museum, on Tuesday, for this prompt, then:

Gloves worn by Stagecoach Driver "Uncle Jim" Miller

The display included his hat, boots, whip, and other items, including a photo of him.

Stagecoach Driver "Uncle Jim" Miller

Or this photo:

Gloves Worn by Tim McCoy, Actor and Military Officer

Of course, what I was really hoping to do was take a better photo of this famous glove:

Michael Jackson's Glove

I thought it would have been a perfect candidate for prompt #18, because gloves are something that should be found in pairs!  Unfortunately, the display had been removed!  I looked around in disbelief when I saw that the display was not where I had seen it on my last visit and went around the gallery a second time, just in case I was mistaken or they had moved it.  Then, I asked one of the security officers who was walking around and she told me that they removed the display, last week.

Today, I called cousin R.  When she called me on Monday, she had invited me to attend a discussion group at a church that she has been attending.  She had found it helpful and is now a discussion leader or facilitator.  She had invited other family members and friends, as well, who have found them helpful and are continuing to attend them.  They were starting a new session, this week (each session consists of 11 or 12 weekly discussions).  Cousin R invited me to attend and bring cousin P, too.  She said dinner will be provided free of charge, you eat first, watch a video, then, break up into smaller groups of 10 or so to discuss the video, ask questions, and so forth. I suppose the topic of the video will change from week to week. According to my cousin, they are meant to answer questions one might have about the meaning and purpose of life and so forth.  I looked it up online and decided it really wasn't for me, although the social aspects of it appealed.  So, I called my cousin, today, and thanked her for the invitation, but declined it, nevertheless.


Today, I am grateful for:
- Daughter's packages were delivered without any problems
- Finding the appropriate gift wrap in the stash!
- A new pair of warm socks for winter
- Being taught to knit, at school, when I was in 4th grade (we had to choose between learning to knit or crochet; I chose knitting)
- Being able to postpone the vacuuming without worrying too much about it


Wednesday's To Do List:
- Vacuum
- Clean the bathrooms - DONE
- Do a load of laundry - DONE
- Put gas to the car
- Buy or make a birthday card
- Buy a roll of gift wrapping paper (can be done on Thursday or Friday, too) - DIDN'T NEED TO
- Cook the salmon - DONE

Thursday's To Do List:
- Doctor's appointment (radiation oncologist)
- Put gas to the car
- Buy or make a birthday card
- Vacuum
- Clean the kitchen (can be done on Friday)

How was your Wednesday?  What are your plans for Thursday? 

Tuesday's Activities

It was 4:30 a.m. before I went to bed, last night, or, should I say, this morning?  I woke up at 10:00 a.m.  I thought I might have a nap in the afternoon, but I didn't.

I listened to some music (a Patsy Cline CD) and did the dusting in the morning.  I didn't dust my daughter's bedroom or the spare room, but the rest of the house was dusted.  Then, I had brunch (bread and chicken curry) and washed the few dishes that were in the sink.

By that time, it was around 2:00 p.m.  I decided to go to the Autry Museum, after all, and spent about an hour there.

Pathe Freres Camera used by Cecil B. DeMille and Underwood No. 5 Typewriter used to write the script for a 1913 silent film, The Squaw Man

There was a poster, nearby, with more information about the film:

Information about the Film

Afterwards, I drove directly to the Armenian grocery store to take advantage of this week's specials, which included salmon steaks for $4.49/lb.  My daughter is coming home, this weekend, and I will share the salmon with her.

8/13 Groceries

I bought:
6 salmon steaks @ $4.49/lb = $12.24
3 mangoes @ 3/$1.00 = $1.00
2 peaches @ $.39/lb = $0.47
3 bananas @ $.49/lb = $0.49
Serrano chilies @$.79/lb = $0.12
4 Roma tomatoes @$.99/lb = $0.98
2 Onions @$.39/lb = $0.35
Turmeric (12 oz/342g) = $3.49
1 packet pita bread = $.50
2 cans (1 lb) pineapple chunks @$.50 = $1.00
Total = $20.64

8/13 Grocery Receipt

My August grocery budget is $75.

Spent to date = $13.84 + $1.99 + $5.95 + $20.64 = $42.42
Balance left in the budget = $75 - $42.42 = $32.58

I watched news, after I came home, and some other programs on TV and knitted.  Later, I video chatted with my daughter.

Today's joyful activity was the return visit to the museum. 

Today, I am grateful for:
- Free days at the museum
- Weekly specials at the grocery store
- What I was able to accomplish today
- Video chatting with my daughter
- Safe drives (me) and bus rides (daughter)

Tuesday's To Do List:
- Dust the house - DONE

- Grocery shopping - DONE

- Water the house plants - DONE
- Visit the museum - DONE

Wednesday's To Do List:
- Vacuum
- Clean the bathrooms
- Do a load of laundry
- Put gas to the car
- Buy or make a birthday card
- Buy a roll of gift wrapping paper (can be done on Thursday or Friday, too)

How was your Tuesday?  How is your August grocery budget coming along?  What are your plans for Wednesday?