On Thursday

Dancer: "Don't bother me, I'm not going to smile for the camera"

On Thursday, I was up fairly early (for me, anyway) to take the car in for a service.  My appointment was at 9:00 a.m. and I was there in good time.  I was hoping that I could get away with an oil change and maybe a tire rotation, but, no, apparently, I needed several things, including the battery, checked and several things, including the air filters, a fan belt that was starting to crack, and front brakes, replaced, and something else that was due because it's been so many months since it was last done, etc.  Sigh.  Considering the fact that I don't drive my car a lot since I retired, there was quite a lot that needed to be done and it turned out to be an expensive service! They did arrange for a ride share to take me back home and another to pick me up to take me back to the service garage, so, at least, I didn't have to spend all day in their waiting area!  They normally only give a ride to the house (or office); you have to find your way back to the service center to pick up your car.

I spent some time in the garden after I came home, made a citrus drink with lemons and oranges from the garden, ran the dishwasher, replied to blog comments, etc.  Then, it was time to collect the car. 

I must have been tired, because, after I came home and we had a late lunch, I fell asleep on the sofa while listening to the evening news!  

After I woke up, I returned phone calls (both aunt C and friend R had called while I was napping), made tea for my daughter, cleaned Dancer's litter box, and wiped down the kitchen counters, stove top, and the front of the lower kitchen cabinets.  Dinner was leftovers.

On Thursday, I was grateful for:

- Being able to get the car serviced
- Getting a free ride both home and back

- Lemons and oranges from the garden
- Naps on the sofa
- Phone calls with family and friends

Thursday's joyful activity was spending time in the garden.

Plans for Friday include doing a load of laundry, taking daughter to get the shoes her podiatrist recommended, and tending to the garden with M in the evening.

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

Ten Years and Counting

 

Monday's Pickings

When I wrote my first blog post on July 20, 2014, stating that it would be a blog about "this and that", I really had no idea that I would still be writing about "this and that" ten years later!  Thank you to all of you who read and comment on my blog.

So, to continue with posting about "this and that", on Sunday evening, after I had posted my blog post about the warm weekend and how grateful I was for electricity to run the fans and appliances, around 9:00 p.m., the power went off!  My block was completely without power.  Fortunately, I keep a flashlight (or torch as I grew up calling them) near me and plenty of candles.  I lit several candles and there was sufficient light to see to clean the litter box and do the dishes, but, I couldn't do much else!  I didn't want to strain my eyes to try and read or sew by candlelight and while I crocheted a bit, I wasn't that interested in it.  Fortunately, it had started to cool off a bit, so, the lack of working fans didn't bother me too much.  Neighbor S called to say that her electric gate was not working and her daughters, who were coming home after having gone out earlier, couldn't find street parking.  Before she could even ask, I told her that they could park in my driveway and she thanked me.  I was glad I was able to help.  I Facetimed with my daughter because we couldn't video chat as usual.  Then, around 12:15 a.m., just as I was thinking that I might as well go to bed, the power came back on and, of course, I stayed up till past 3:00 a.m.!  LOL.

On Monday morning, I called in Dancer's medication refill to the pharmacy.  Then, I took the car in for a smog check to see if the exhaust emissions meet air quality standards; the smog check was required for renewing my car registration which is coming due.  There was no one else ahead of me, so, the mechanic was able to check my car right away.  My car passed the smog check, so now, I can go ahead and send in my renewal fees.  I relaxed during the afternoon and read.  

In the evening, when it had cooled off a bit, I took the trash cans to the curb for pick up in the morning, put water to the back garden, and picked some Meyer lemons, red Serrano chilies, a handful of okra, and a sprig of moringa leaves.  Then, I cooked dinner - rice, dhal with moringa leaves, sauteed okra, and sliced, sauteed hot dogs with onions, chili powder, and ketchup.  Brunch had been a cheese sandwich.

I also cleaned and polished a brass candle holder, a small, round brass tray, and another metal candle holder with a glass globe.  I had used both candle holders on Sunday night and they were full of melted wax which needed to be scraped out.   

On Monday, I was grateful for:

- The car passing the smog check
- The produce I was able to pick from the garden
- Water for the garden
- Being able to help neighbor S with the parking for her daughters the night before
- Power being restored

Monday's joyful activity was picking the lemons and vegetables from the garden.

On Tuesday, I  drove to the pharmacy to pick up Dancer's medication refill.  This is the pharmacy located next to the doughnut shop.  I bought an apple fritter, this time, instead of a doughnut.  It was delicious!  

In the afternoon, I made the appointment for my blood test prior to my next doctor's appointment.  It's not until mid-August, but, I wanted to make sure I booked a spot, without procrastinating like the last time.  I also checked the grocery ads for the week, although I haven't decided if I'll buy groceries this week.

In the evening, I walked for a little bit, chatted with friend R, watched some online videos, cleaned the kitchen a bit, and relaxed.  Dinner was leftovers from Monday.

Tuesday's Dinner

On Tuesday, I was grateful for:

- Dancer's medication was available without any problems
- A safe drive to the pharmacy and back
- Being able to make my blood test appointment
- Access to medical care
- Power to run the fans, etc.

Tuesday's joyful activities included enjoying an apple fritter for brunch and keeping in contact with friends through emails and phone calls.

Which brings us to Wednesday.  Plans for Wednesday include tending to the garden with M.   

What are your plans for Wednesday?

Productive Tuesday

Alstroemeria

On Tuesday morning, Dancer's pharmacy staff called to let me know that they have received the refill request from the vet's clinic and it will be ready for pick up on Wednesday, did I have enough medication to last until then?  I said yes, I had enough.  

Alstroemeria Close Up

Then, it was time to get ready to take the car in for a service.  These services usually take about 4 to 5 hours, depending on how busy they are and what else they find they need to do, other than the basic oil change and checking fluid levels, etc.  They offer you a free ride home from the service center, but, you have to find your way back to pick up the car afterwards, so, I usually go prepared to wait in their waiting lounge.  I took my prayer books and two crochet projects to do while I waited, as well as a bottle of water and a granola bar for brunch.  

My appointment was at 11:00 a.m. with a particular service consultant, as they are called.  Usually, if you have an appointment, they take your car in at once.  However, this time, I had to wait almost 30 minutes before the person with whom I had the appointment to come and check the car in.  When he did, I complained a little bit about the delay, because at least five other cars that came in after me were taken in for servicing.  He apologized and said that they've had a new computer system installed and today was the first day they were using it and they are experiencing all kinds of delays.  However, in order to make up for the delay, he will give me a free ride both home and back.  And he noted that on the service order and went with me to the desk where they arrange for the ride services and informed them that I get both a free ride home and a free pick up, when the car was ready.

So, I got a free ride home in a Tesla!  It was the first time I had ridden in one, but, although they are supposed to be self-driving, the driver did keep his hands on the wheel for the most part (he took his hands off the wheel for a very short distance to show me how it worked).  

I was happy to wait at home, as it was more comfortable than waiting in the service center's lounge.  I replied to blog comments, watched some videos, crocheted a bit, and cleaned the laundry area.  

While I was waiting at home, the general manager at the car service center texted me to say that my car model was in high demand and they would like to purchase it, and to call or reply to the text to discuss the matter.  Well, no, I am not willing to sell my car!  It is my only car and if I sell it, I'd need to buy another car to replace it and I don't want to do that, yet.  So, I ignored the text.

The car service consultant called me around 4:30 p.m. to say that the car was ready and they will arrange for a ride service to pick me up.  I had a short wait, after I reached the service center, but, I didn't mind that.  There is a TV in the waiting lounge and while the volume was turned down low, I was able to watch part of a cooking show that I enjoyed.  While I was waiting, friend S (not neighbor S) called to ask if I was home as she wanted to stop by.  I said I was at the car service center, waiting to pay and pick up my car, but, I should be home in about half an hour.  She said she and her husband will swing by, and if I am not home, they will leave something for me on the door step.  

Soon after that, I paid the bill for the car service ($500+) and drove home.  I had just pulled into the garage when friend S and her husband pulled into the driveway!  It was S's husband's birthday and they brought me dinner!  How lovely is that?

Rice and Curries from Friend S

Ghee rice, chicken curry, green beans, sauteed eggplant, and cashew curry (in a bag so that the gravy wouldn't spill).  I gave them a bag of peaches, a bunch of curry leaves. and a few green chilies in return.  I enjoyed the dinner they brought me and there's a little leftover for Wednesday's brunch.

On Tuesday, I was grateful for:

- Being able to get the car serviced
- Getting a free ride both home and back to the service center
- Friends who bless me with dinner
- Being able to share some of the garden produce with them in return
- Phone calls with friends and video chats with daughter

Tuesday's joyful activities included visiting with friend S and her husband for a few minutes and enjoying the dinner they provided. 

 Tuesday's To Do List:

- Take the car in for the service - DONE
- Dust and vacuum the bedrooms and hallway STARTED
- Bring the trash cans in - DONE
- Tidy the laundry room (one of the Rooms of the Week) - DONE
- Pick more fruit - DONE

I didn't finish my Tuesday's to do list, but, I'm happy with what I got done.

Wednesday's To Do List:

- Tend to the garden with M
- Pick up Dancer's medication
- Dust and vacuum the bedrooms and hallway
- Do a load of laundry
- Run the dishwasher

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

Errands on Tuesday

"Where's my other human, Mummy?"

Poor Dancer keeps going around the house, meowing, looking for his other human.  Earlier this evening, he was sitting in front of the front door, staring at it, as if expecting my daughter to walk in at any moment!  

I ran a few more errands today!  First, I went to the gas station to put some gas in my car.  I was down to quarter of a tank, although I usually try to keep the gas tank at least half full at all times.  I put $50 worth of gas, at $4.79/gal. and it was enough to fill the tank.  $50 is what I budget each month for gas, but, since I don't drive that much, anymore, I tend to fill up only every other month.  I am considering lowering my monthly gas budget to $25 per month, next year.  

After that, I went to the pharmacy to pick up my medication refill.  The line wasn't all that long, but, there was only one person at the counter and the line moved very slowly.  The store was rather busy, too, for a weekday afternoon.  I was almost sorry that I decided to pick up the medication instead of having it mailed to me!  But, mailing charges have gone up to $5; the medication cost $50.00.

Then, I went next door to the dollar store.  I was hoping to find a 2024 wall calendar - the kind with big squares in which to write appointments and times.  I was happy to find one for $1.00.  In addition, I bought 3 bananas (@ $.49/lb.), a bag of grapes (@$1.79/lb.), a package of dates (@$3.99), two rolls of wax paper (@$1.50), and a box of snack sized sandwich bags (@$1.50).  My total came to $14.08.

I was happy to be able to get about and run my errands, but, at the same time, I felt a little stressed about it, too.  Even with my mask on, I felt uncomfortable being exposed to so many people in the stores.  I think I'll continue to stay at home for the most part in the coming weeks.  

I spent the rest of the day relaxing at home.  I brought in the emptied trash cans, picked another handful of ripe cherry tomatoes, called friend S to check on her (she had burned her hand earlier in the month when hot oil splashed on her hand and forearm), watched news and the semi-finals of Dancing with the Stars and another musical program on TV, and looked through the week's grocery ads.  

Breakfast was half a bagel with butter, lunch was rice with the last of the beef curry, and dinner was sauteed turkey with the last of the butternut squash.  Snacks included a mandarin orange, some grapes, some preserved/dried pineapple, some potato chips, and the last piece of cherry pie for dessert.  

Today, I am grateful for:

- Gas for the car
- Being able to drive
- My medications
- Finding the calendar I wanted
- A sunny day and a relatively warm afternoon

Today's joyful activity was video chatting with my daughter.

Plans for Wednesday include tending to the garden with M and reading.

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

Car Service on Tuesday

More Coreopsis

Thank you, everyone, on the kind comments about the crazy socks I knitted!  I wore them to bed and they kept my feet warm and actually stayed on my feet the whole night!  

On Tuesday, I took the car in for a service.  It took about 2 1/2 hours, but, the waiting area was comfortable and I had taken my prayer book and another book to read while I waited.  

Afterwards, I drove home and made myself some tuna salad for brunch.  Then, relaxed for a bit, before canning the peaches I had picked. I had given the better quality fruit to my friends and kept the ones that had some bruising, so, I had to cut off much of the bruised bits, which meant I didn't have that much left to can.  But, I am happy with the jars of cinnamon spiced peaches that I canned.  

Later in the evening, I watered the back garden.  I was going to wait until M arrived on Wednesday to water, but, the tomato plants were wilting, so, I thought it would be good to give them, and some of the fruit trees, a drink of water!  

Dinner was leftovers from last night's dinner.  I haven't made a meal plan for this week, but, I still have leftover soup and leftover pasta sauce, so there will be soup and pasta during the week.  

On Tuesday, I was grateful for:

- Getting the car serviced without any major issues
- A safe drive to the service center and back
- The peach harvest
- Water for the garden
- Phone calls and emails from friends

Today's joyful activity was canning and preserving more of the peaches.  

Plans for Wednesday include tending to the garden with M and getting some housework done.

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

May Gray May Day Monday

Sunday April 30 was sunny and warm with a high of 78F.  Monday May 1 was cloudy, drizzly, and cool with a high of 61F; it is a weather phenomenon that is called May Gray (a precursor to June Gloom) by our weather forecasters.  Cooler ocean waters from Alaska flowing along the coast of California and cooling the air above the ocean, coupled with a downward air pressure which prevents the cooler air from rising causes a weather inversion which results in moisture laden cool air to spread inland in the form of clouds.  The clouds will usually disperse in the afternoon as the sun warms up the air, which is what happened, today.  Morning drizzle and clouds gave way to afternoon sunshine, with the clouds returning with sunset.  I am always amazed about how abruptly the weather changes as soon as it is May!

I had trouble staying asleep, last night.  I went to bed around 3:30 a.m., as usual, and fell asleep without any difficulty.  But, I woke up at 6:00 a.m. and couldn't fall back asleep!  I eventually gave up trying to fall asleep again and got up.  It was cold for me, so I put on the electric space heater while I had my morning tea, said my prayers, and replied to blog comments, etc.  It being the first of the month, I made milkrice for brunch and picked fresh flowers from the garden - roses and the purple Martha Washington geraniums - to place at the altar and the mantelpiece.     

I felt tired in the early afternoon and tried to take a nap, but, again, couldn't fall asleep.  I rested for about an hour and then, I got going with the rest of my day's To Do List.  I'm still using the revised weekly cleaning list from 2020, although I've been tweaking it a bit as needed.  I haven't been writing down my daily to do lists, lately, but, I'm thinking of making it a regular feature of my blog posts, again; to counteract the feeling I sometimes get that I am not doing any housework, etc.  It helps to see it written down! For example, today, I: 

- Changed the bed sheets
- Did a load of laundry (bed sheets/towels)
- Dusted and vacuumed the living room & dining area
- Did a quick clean of the fridge
- Took the trash cans to the curb for Tuesday trash pick up
- Cleaned the litter box
- Started the car
- Made a weekly meal plan
- Continued to repair the Log Cabin quilt

I also water the garden on Mondays now, instead of Tuesdays because M tends to the garden on Wednesdays and Fridays; but, I didn't have to water today because it rained a bit in the morning.

It was sunny in the afternoon and I did my walk around 3:00 p.m.  Today, I walked for 20 minutes and I needed a short break after 10 minutes.  

Brunch was milkrice and seeni sambol.  Dinner was leftover spaghetti and sauce.  Snacks included a bowl of cereal, yogurt, and grapes.

Today, I am grateful for:

- A little drizzle for the garden
- The electric space heater
- A sunny and warmer afternoon
- Working appliances
- Flowers from the garden

Today's joyful activity was greeting the new month with the traditional milkrice and fresh flowers.

How was your Monday?  Did you do something special to observe May Day?

Car Service on Thursday

 

Osteospermum and Lantana

These two plants seem happy together.  The lantana was planted there and the osteospermum self-seeded, but, I left it in place and now they appear almost as one bush!  

I had to wake up early, this morning!  Not that early, but, 7:00 a.m. is pretty early for me, these days.  I was at the car service station by 8:00 a.m.  They did an oil change, rotated the tires, and did an inspection of brakes, fluid levels, etc.  I was told the service would cost $149, but, I could buy a multi-service package of 5 services in the next 3 years for $239.  Since I get the car serviced at least twice a year, I decided to get the package.  The service went well and they didn't find anything else that needed to be done.  I waited in their waiting lounge with a few other people; I was the only one wearing a mask! 

I was home by 10:00 a.m. and hungry!  I made myself more pancakes and ate them with chicken curry for an early brunch.  Then, I sat outside in the sunshine for a little bit (it was a lovely sunny day with an afternoon high of almost 80F), replied to blog comments, and caught up on a few other blogs.  

In the afternoon, I called my half-sister to check on her (she's scheduled for her second cataract surgery later this month) and called neighbor T to check on her because she forgot to call me on Sunday!  T is fine, but, she said she has a lot going on.  Later, I called friend R and checked on her.  I told her I was going to order groceries and asked if she needed anything, but, she said, no. 

I also sewed a few more patches on the quilt I am repairing and paid my water and electricity bill, which also includes sewage fees and solid waste collection fees.  The billing period is 2 months and the total bill came to $331.83.  It's not too bad, but, between the gas bill and the water and electricity bill, that's over $1,000 I've paid for utilities, this month!  

Later, I watched news and snacked on the leftover pancakes, with some of my peach topping poured over them.  I had dinner, later - macaroni and cheese from a boxed mix with some pieces of ham added to it.  

After dinner, I ordered groceries.  I had been waiting for chicken to go on sale and this week, it is on sale for $.99/lb.; I ordered two family packs of chicken thighs to stock up.  I also ordered a 1 lb. packet of ground beef at $5.49/lb., which is the regular price. 

Later, I video chatted with my daughter for a bit.  Our call had to be cut short because she lost her internet connection!  We said our goodnights over the phone!

Today, I am grateful for:
- The car being serviced and checked
- A lovely, sunny, warmer day
- Phone chats with family and friends
- Being able to order groceries online
- Being able to pay my bills!

Today's joyful activity was video chatting with my daughter while she had internet connections!

Plans for tomorrow include picking up my groceries and tending to the garden with M. 

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

More Productive on Friday

Another Look at the Peach Tree

Friday morning, I woke up as soon as the alarms went off and fed Dancer his salmon pate, much to his delight!  Then, after having my cup of tea, I called the clinic to confirm today's appointment and to verify that they had received the dose to be injected (since not receiving it in time was the reason the visit was postponed from last week to today).  The person I spoke with confirmed the appointment and tried to check their pharmacy to see if the medicine had been received but, he couldn't speak with anyone at the pharmacy and told me he will leave a message for them to call me back; of course, they never did!  Oh, well.  I still kept my appointment.

I left the house at 12:00 noon to be at the clinic (in downtown Los Angeles) by 1:00 p.m. for the 1:15 p.m. appointment.  The freeway was congested, but, no more than usual.  I was at the clinic at 1:00 p.m. The receptionist checking me in said my appointment was for 3:15 p.m. and I said, "3:15 p.m.!  I called to confirm the time this morning and I was told it was at 1:15 p.m.!"  Then, she looked on the appointment schedule and confirmed that it was at 1:15 p.m.!  Whew!  

I waited for a few minutes to be weighed, have my pressure checked, etc., (weight hasn't changed - but, then, I hadn't expected it to, after all the holiday treats and eating take-out food in January; the pressure was good).  Then, I waited a bit longer to be seen by the nurse practitioner.  She said that the lab results and mammogram, etc., were good, the bone density scan showed some bone loss (which is why I continue to receive the injections every six months), examined me and asked how I was feeling, etc., refilled my prescription and then I was given my injection, another appointment for a follow-up visit in three months' time, the lab work requisition, and, at my request, a copy of the lab report.  It was nearly 2:30 p.m. when I left the clinic and today's parking charge was $12.00.

Then, I drove home, stopping to put gas to the car on the way back.  I didn't put gas to the car in January and I had more than a quarter, but, less than half a tank of gas.  I budget $50.00 a month for gas (I don't drive much, these days) and today's top up came to $44.55 with gas at $4.35/gal. at the cheaper station near my house.  I did notice that gas was $4.25 at a different station closer to downtown; I probably should have gassed up at that station, but, I didn't want to be late for the doctor's appointment.  I also didn't realize that gas was cheaper at that station - I'll keep that in mind the next time I go for my doctor's appointment.

It was 4:00 p.m. by the time I came home and I was getting hungry (I was still on that one cup of tea from morning; I had some crackers with me, but, I didn't eat any).  I had considered picking up a hamburger or a pizza on the way home from the doctor's appointment, but, I decided not to!  I also decided not to pick up anything from the convenience store at the gas station (they sell hot dogs, pizza, etc.)  Instead, I came home and cooked myself a hamburger!  A cheeseburger, in fact!

Homemade Cheeseburger

Just the way I like without onions or tomatoes.  I didn't have any pickles, so I used up the last bit of sweet relish I had in a small jar (cleaned out one jar from the fridge door shelves), plus Miracle Whip, ketchup, and lettuce.  Not the best picture, but, I was too hungry to try to take a better photo!  Dinner was a bowl of soup because I was too full after the hamburger for anything else!  

M was supposed to tend to the garden this evening, but, he called to say that he got delayed at another client's house and could he buy the bags of gravel tomorrow and drop them off, instead.  I said that was fine.

I relaxed a bit in the evening, after that, then, did a load of laundry, watched a movie on TV ("The King's Speech"), and chatted with friend R.  The pharmacy texted that the prescription that the oncology nurse practitioner refilled was ready to be picked up, but, I will collect it tomorrow.  

Today, I am grateful for:
- Having access to medical care
- Medical insurance
- Good lab work results
- A safe drive to and from the clinic

- The availability of gas for the car

Today's joyful activity was watching the movie.  

Plans for Saturday include picking up my medication (two visits to the pharmacy in one week!), having M bring the rest of the bags of gravel for the parkway, and maybe another load of laundry.  

How was your Friday?  What are your plans for Saturday and the weekend?

Errands on Thursday and Friday

Daughter's Inktober Drawings for Week 1

My daughter is, once again, participating in Inktober, where one is given a set of prompts and you are supposed to draw a picture to illustrate the prompt.  The prompts for the first seven days were: gargoyle, scurry, bat, scallop, flame, bouquet, and trip.  

I've had a couple of productive days, yesterday (Thursday) and today (Friday)!

Yesterday, I picked up the groceries at noon.  Jennifer was a sweetheart!  There were a couple of items I had wanted which appeared as "available for delivery only" and I had mentioned it to her; she immediately went back to the store and got me those items!  I thanked her and she brushed aside my thanks, but, then, asked me if I baked; I said yes and she said she'd love to try something I've baked and chocolate is her favorite flavor!  LOL.  Yes, I will be baking something chocolaty and taking it over to her!  

On my drive home, I noticed that there was a flex cord type thing hanging down in my car, from under the steering wheel, just above the pedals.  I could feel it brushing against my foot as I moved my foot from the brakes to the accelerator and back.  I didn't know quite what it was, but, I was pretty sure it shouldn't be hanging loose like that!  So, after I put away the groceries, baked the frozen pizza and ate a piece of it, I called the car service people and asked if I could come in to have it checked out.  They said yes and I drove over.  I spoke with Paul, the service consultant I usually deal with and he looked at the dangling flex and even he didn't know what it was!  But, he went in search of a mechanic and then, I remembered what it could be!

Several years ago, when I had first bought the car, the auto insurance company had required me to install a mileage monitoring device - having it installed (free of charge, at a service station of their recommendation) was supposed to give me a discount on my insurance and so, I had it installed.  Needless to say, after a year or so, they gave up on that requirement, but, the device had remained in place until, I guess it came loose on its own accord!  When the mechanic took a look, he confirmed that it was what I thought it was, the auto insurance company's monitoring device, and it was just hanging loose from a zip tie.  We didn't see any reason to keep it there and so, he cut the zip tie and handed me the device.  It has the auto insurance company's logo on it and I am not sure if I am supposed to return it to them or what, but, I doubt it.  I think I'll probably just toss it!

While I was having that tended to, I remembered the dead battery in the key fob!  Even though it sort of "recharged" itself that one time, it has been dead since then!  I mentioned it to Paul and he said their parts shop sells batteries and will install it for me.  The battery cost $6.65 with tax and the guy there installed it for me; he offered me the old battery, but, I didn't know what I'd do with it, so I asked him to recycle it for me (although, I think he just tossed it in the trash can that was under the counter!)  So, that was another task crossed off my To Do List and I was very proud of myself to have remembered the key fob battery!  LOL.  My mind is truly like a sieve, these days, and I don't always remember other related tasks when I am tending to one thing.  

After I came home, I relaxed and watched news, cleaned the litter box, chatted with friend R, called and left a message for neighbor T, chatted with Aunt C, and, later, video chatted with my daughter.  Dinner was a home cooked frozen hamburger patty on a bread ends "bun"!  Mango for dessert and there might have been some chocolate wafers, too!  LOL!

Today, Friday, I had a phone call from cousin V in the morning.  Afterwards, I changed the dust sheets on the family room sofas and did a load of laundry.  I hung the items up to dry.  There was another "weekly bill tracker" email from the gas company - 17 days into the billing period, with 12 days remaining, I have a current bill of $17.17 and an estimated bill of $29.30.  I guess I am using $1.01 worth of gas per day!  No mention of how many therms I've used! They also helpfully mentioned that my bill for the same month, last year, was $22.19 - but, omitted the fact that the price per unit of gas was less, last year!  LOL.  I have saved bill statements which allow me to see the actual therms used and cost per therm, etc.

In the early afternoon, I called CVS pharmacy to book a flu vaccine appointment and was told that I didn't need to make an appointment, they are accepting walk-ins.   Apparently, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, some of their pharmacies have hired an extra pharmacist to administer vaccinations to walk-ins.  I asked if there was a long wait and was told that there was a short wait.  So, I drove over within the half hour and signed up to get not only the flu vaccine, but also the pneumonia shot.  I decided not to get the Covid booster on this visit because I didn't want to overwhelm my system with too many antigens at the same time!  I especially don't want to get a sciatica flare-up as a result!

The pharmacy worker (Irene) who helped me register for the vaccines recognized me from pre-Covid days when I used to go to the pharmacy in person and we chatted a bit.  Then, she handed me the forms to fill out for the vaccines and I walked off to sit near the vaccination booth to fill them out.  About 5 minutes later, Irene walked over and handed me my medical insurance cards!  I had handed them to her when registering and had forgotten to get them back from her!  Did I say that my mind is like a sieve these days?

There were two other people ahead of me in the line to get the vaccinations and my wait time was about 15 minutes.  Afterwards, I took a quick look around one or two store aisles on my way out, but, apparently that urge to shop is only a side effect of the Covid vaccine!  I noticed that daughter's favorite brand of coffee was on sale for $6.99, but, I have several packs of her coffee in the fridge and didn't buy any more.  

There was a non-Sri Lankan Buddhist monk behind me in the line, also waiting for a vaccination; according to one of the Buddhist discourses (the Mangala Sutta), the sight of an observant monk is a blessing, so I took it as a good omen that the vaccination will go well.  I greeted him and spoke with him while we waited in line and, later, offered him a chair so he could sit while he waited for his turn to be called in to the vaccination booth.

After I came home, I had my brunch (a banana and an egg salad sandwich) and relaxed.  M arrived to tend to the garden and we chatted a bit; he watered and tidied the garden a bit.

My arms are starting to feel a bit sore; I plan to take it easy and relax in the evening, too.  

I am grateful for:

- The flex cord that was hanging from the car was not something important
- I was able to get the battery replaced in the key fob
- The availability of vaccines
- M helping with the garden
- Helpful customer service assistants such as Jennifer, Paul, Irene, and many others who help people every day.

Today's joyful activity is relaxing and taking it easy.

Weekend plans will depend very much on how I feel after the double vaccinations.  If I feel up to it, I might do some sewing.

How was your Friday?  What are your plans for the weekend?

Warm Fall Days

Dancer Collage

A blog reader once commented that I need to have photos in my posts; that they hate to read a long post with only text.  After I wrote this blog post, I realized that it was all text and no photos, so, I tried to find some photos I still have in my phone to create a collage, since I didn't take any new photos, today (well, I took one, but, that is for later!)

We are having a mini heatwave with highs in the mid 90s(F), yesterday and today.  Warmer temperatures are in the forecast for early next week.  Needless to say, I am loving it!

Yesterday (Friday) started with a phone call from my half-sister.  It was mid-morning when she called, but, I was still waking up, having gone to sleep after 4:00 a.m.  It was not an urgent, emergency type of call, just checking to see how I was doing, so I let it go to the answering machine.  I called her back later in the afternoon and it was my turn to leave a message on her answering machine!

In the afternoon, I went to pick up my groceries.  I used the key to open the car door (the remote didn't work) and the car started without any problem.  I drove to the grocery store and my favorite store worker, Jennifer saw me pull in to the special parking spots they have set aside for curbside pick up.  I guess she was helping another customer.  I didn't see her and started to call the store to notify them that I was there when she called out that she'll be with me in a minute!  I didn't even complete the call to the store!  Jennifer brought the groceries to me and told me that it was lovely to see me (her words), and that she feels happy when she sees my name on the order when it comes in because she knows she'll get to see one of her favorite customers!  Now isn't that lovely?  I told her it was great to see her, too; she is so bubbly and exuberant.  No discounts, this time around, but, I wasn't expecting one and I was happy that I received all the items I had ordered.

After I came home and put the groceries away, I called friend R to see if she was home because I wanted to take a piece of cake over to her.  I asked her if she wanted anything else and she asked for some curry leaves and lemons.  Just before I left the house to take the cake and other items to R, I just tried my car key remote to see if it would work and, guess what?  It worked!  I guess being in the ignition while I drove to the grocery store and back (and the short wait at the store parking lot when I had the car engine idling while I waited), must have recharged the battery?  I had wondered if that would do it and I guess it did!  

Friend R lives about a 15-20 minutes drive away; I stayed in the car (masked) while I handed the bag with the container of cake, the curry leaves, and lemons to R (who was also masked) through the open car window; the engine was running during our less than 5 minutes visit.  Then, I drove home and yes, locked the car doors with the now functioning key fob!  I will be making it a point to not only start the car for a few minutes every few days, but, to drive it around for a little bit, too.  

Later in the evening, M arrived to tend to the garden and he enjoyed a slice of cake, too.  He put away the window a/c unit that we had taken down earlier in the month when we had that rain shower; he had left it in the family room in case I wanted it up, again, but, I don't think it will get warm enough for that (even if we are supposed to go up to 100F next week).  So, the a/c unit is now back in the garage, waiting to be called into service again, next summer.

Still later, I cooked one of the trays of chicken thighs I had bought.  I made a curry with it and once it had cooled, I portioned it (two pieces per package) and froze it.  There were 10 chicken thighs in the package and now, there are 5 packages of frozen chicken curry in the freezer.  I am planning to do the same with the second pack of chicken thighs (I kept it to marinate in the fridge and am cooking it, tonight).  I guess you could say this is my version of batch cooking!

My daughter had another migraine headache, yesterday.  She was fine in the morning, but, the headache started in the afternoon and she had to take the afternoon off from work.  She took the Excedrin for migraine that her doctor had told her to take and the headache eventually wore off, but, she was still feeling a bit heavy-headed this morning, she said.  However, she felt better in the afternoon and did her grocery shopping and bought her monthly bus pass, etc.  Chicken has been priced at $2.89/lb. in her area and she had been holding off on buying any; but, today, she found some drumsticks for $1.99/lb. and bought a small pack of them, she said.  I am thinking that I will buy another tray of chicken when it goes on sale for $.99/lb. next (if it does), closer to daughter's next planned visit home (for Thanksgiving) and cook and freeze it for her to take back with her!  

Today (Saturday) has been a relatively relaxed day.  I guess yesterday's activities wore me out!  LOL!

I am grateful for:
- My daughter is feeling better after her migraine
- Driving around for a bit seems to have recharged my key fob battery!
- Being able to order groceries online and pick up, curbside
- A short visit with friend R
- M helping me with the garden and taking the a/c unit to the garage

Joyful activities have included in-person chats with Jennifer, friend R, and gardener M!  

How is your weekend coming along?

More Sewing on Sunday

Quality Control Inspection in Progress

I sewed the additional crumb pieced blocks together, today, and attached them to the quilt top.  I spread the quilt top on the bed to see how it looked and the Quality Control Inspector in Chief had to try it out, of course.  He complained when I nudged him off so I could pin the border pieces prior to sewing them!  

I spent a pleasant day sewing, watching some TV, chatting on the phone with friend R, and video chatting with my daughter.  

I cleaned the litter box, walked in the drive way, and started the car.  There was a moment of panic when the key remote didn't unlock the car doors and I thought the car battery was dead (it has been over a week since I last started and drove the car!).  But, then, I thought I'll try opening the car door with the key and try to start the car and the car started without any problem!  The car battery was not dead, but, the battery in the key remote was dead!  I let the engine run for a good 20 minutes or so while I walked up and down the driveway.  I will call the dealers, tomorrow, to ask about replacing the battery on the remote, but, I don't mind using the key to lock and unlock the doors.  I was very happy that the car started!

Brunch was soup, dinner was chicken curry, rice, and the last of the zucchini chutney, and snacks included a slice or two of bara brith with butter at tea time and some crackers with cheese.

Today, I am grateful for:

- The car started!
- Chatting with friend R and my daughter
- Time spent sewing
- Television coverage of world events
- Electricity to run appliances

Today's joyful activity was sewing.

Plans for tomorrow (Monday) include more sewing and a little bit of some necessary housekeeping tasks.  

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

 

Changes

It seems to be a time for changes, doesn't it?  In my religion, we believe that everything is transient; nothing remains the same, everything is subject to change. 

My mother used to say that change was good.  It was one of her sayings.  When my mother was born in 1920, she was born in what was the British Crown Colony of Ceylon at the time.  She said that her father, who was the first non-Britisher to hold his post, cried when King Edward VIII abdicated.  That abdication led to a lot of changes, didn't it?

Ceylon, by the way, gained its independence in 1948, retaining the position of Governor General, and, like many former British colonies, became a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, which recognizes the British monarch as its head.  In 1972, Ceylon became the Republic of Sri Lanka and replaced the position of Governor General (who had represented the British Crown) with a President, but, continued to be a member of the Commonwealth.

Yesterday (Thursday), when I heard about the death of Queen Elizabeth II, I felt sad at her passing; it marks a change, doesn't it?  May she rest in peace.  May the changes that result from her passing be good.

Yesterday, we had slightly cooler temperatures and I managed to get a few things done, including giving Dancer his flea medications, some paperwork and bill paying, watering a few plants in the front garden with water I had collected in buckets, doing a load of laundry (the sofa dust sheets) before the flex alert went into effect, and making an appointment to take the car in for a service.

Today, Friday, I took the car in for the service.  My appointment was at 10:40 a.m. and this time, I was there for about three hours.  I didn't mind the wait at all since I was waiting in an air conditioned room.  LOL.  Once again, I was about the only person who wore a mask, but, I expected that.  I had taken a sliced apple with me for brunch and midway through my wait, I went outside, stood in an area without any people to eat my apple slices and drink some water, then, put my mask back on and returned to the waiting area.  Today, they checked the engine, did a tune up, and rotated the tires; I was told that I will not need to replace my shock absorbers for another two years, bring the car in again in six months for an oil change, and if I ever want to sell the car, let them know!   LOL!

On the way home, I put gas to the car ($50 worth at $4.95/gal.), then, treated myself to a hamburger and fries from a nearby fast food drive through.  After I came home, I had my hamburger and fries.  Later, I watched news.  We are having a change in the weather as well, with Hurricane Kay, now downgraded to Tropical Storm Kay, moving into southern California!  There was a Flash Flood Alert for some of the counties and this little icon popped up in the corner of my computer:

Weather Change!

It was barely drizzling when M came to tend to the garden and I had him take down the window a/c unit, just in case we get heavier showers (there used to be a time when I could take it down, myself, but, not any more!)  He placed it on the small dining table in the family room, in case I want to put it back up in the window, next week, after the rain is over.  I am not sure if I will need it or not, because the forecast for next week calls for temperatures in the mid-80s, but, if I don't need it, later next week, he will take it to the garage to be stored until next year.  I also asked him to water the garden, just in case it doesn't rain enough to soak the ground.

It has been drizzling on and off all evening.  I'm grateful for the drizzle and I even went outside for a few minutes to feel the rain on my face!  Of course, now it is warm and humid, but, the temperature has come down a bit, outside.  The house is still warm enough to require a fan!  

Friend A called me to ask if I was free to visit her, tomorrow afternoon.  I told her it will depend on how hard it rains, tomorrow, because if it rains enough, the intersections in my neighborhood tend to get flooded!   Some parts of southern California have already had some flash flooding, downed trees, etc., but, so far, we've had drizzle and light showers.  I told A that I will call and let her know in the morning if I can visit her in the afternoon.  

I also spoke with friend R; we check in on a daily basis!

Today, I am grateful for:

- The car was serviced and they didn't say I needed any additional work done!
- Air conditioned waiting areas
- The availability of gas (plus prices have come down from what they had been)
- M helping me with taking down the a/c unit, etc.
- Rain!  The cooler temperatures!   

Today's joyful activity was standing outside, feeling the rain drops on my face!  LOL. 

How was your Friday?  What are your plans for the weekend?

Car Service on Monday

 

Red Roses in the Front Garden

The last time I took the car in for a service had been in July, 2021.  I was supposed to bring it back for another service in November, but, our new Covid case numbers were on the rise and I postponed taking the car in.  I wasn't driving it all that much, anyway, so I ignored the dealers' reminders that the car was due for a service.  Finally, last week, I called and made an appointment to take the car in on Monday.  

My appointment was at 9:20 a.m. and I was there, at the dealership, on the dot!  The service technician ran off the list of services that were due - oil change, check fluid levels, tire rotations and alignment, etc., etc., etc.  It would come to $XXXX.  I handed him the coupons that I had received in the mail from them towards various services and the estimate was still, $XXXX - $xxx.  Of course.  This is why there is a line item in my monthly budget for car maintenance and repairs; I don't put it in a separate account, but, I have the funds earmarked for such expenses.

"How long will it take?", I asked.  "Oh, probably until lunch time, maybe later."  Sigh.  They used to offer a free ride back home, but, they didn't seem to do that, anymore, and, in any case, that would have left me having to find a way to get back to the dealership to pick up the car.  I was planning to wait for the car, no matter how long it took.  But first, I made sure he had my cell phone number - there was one time when I sat in the waiting room, for hours, until past 6:00 p.m. because the technician called my home phone number and left a message that the car was ready, even though I had told him that I would be in the waiting room!  Then, I made my way to the waiting area.

They had remodeled the building since I had been there, last; the big sales floor was now the waiting area and the former, rather small, waiting area was now some offices.  There were two seating groups with upholstered arm chairs and a big screen TV, individual tables with some not so comfortable looking plastic chairs,  high bar stool type seating along a counter with charging stations, etc.  I chose to sit in one of the arm chairs as that seemed the most comfortable seating option.  Except, these chairs had extra deep seats - good if you are tall, I suppose.  Shorty me, at barely five feet tall, would have my legs sticking straight out if I sat all the way back to lean!  I ended up putting my tote bag and purse behind me, as cushions so I could lean back!  

Once seated, I pulled out the crochet project I had taken with me and worked on that, while I watched the entire morning program on the channel being shown on the TV!  I normally don't watch daytime TV, but, now, I watched the talk shows and even an episode of a soap opera, before the afternoon talk shows came on!  All the while hearing the "soft rock" music being piped in, as well.  

I wore one of my N95 masks while I sat in the waiting area, but, I was about the only person with a mask, there.  The office staff and salespeople weren't wearing masks.  The vast majority of other customers waiting for their vehicles to be serviced or waiting to buy or lease a vehicle weren't wearing masks, either.  One or two customers came in with their masks on, but, they pulled them down or took them off while waiting.  I was very glad I had a N95 mask on and had recently had my 2nd booster!  

At noon, the service technician came to see me - they checked the car and changed the oil, but, my battery (from 2018) was low and my tires were worn (they are the original tires, I believe, and have 41,000+ miles on them); he recommended I replaced the battery and all four tires, of course.  They had a special on the tires, he assured me - buy 3 and get the 4th one free (I had seen the sign as soon as I walked into the building).  I've experienced dead batteries (once while on the freeway, which was rather scary; I managed to coast to a shoulder) and a tire blow out while driving (a previous car), so, I said to go ahead and replace both.  "How much longer would that take?"  "Oh, another 3 hours or so."  Well, it's a good thing I didn't schedule anything else for the day!  The good news was I didn't have to replace my brakes, yet.  Well, thank goodness for that!  LOL.

I asked him if there was anywhere with a seat outside to eat the crackers I had with me and he said there was a bench at the very back, in their parking lot.  I went there and took my mask off to eat a couple of crackers and drink my water.  Then, I went back inside to wait.  I finished the skein of yarn I had taken with me, so I couldn't crochet anymore.  Instead, I pulled out my crossword puzzle book and did a few of those.  Finally, the technician came to tell me the car was ready and I went to pay and collect my car.  I was admonished to bring it in again in four months, even if I don't drive it that much, to have the fluid levels checked and a tune up done!  Oh, joy!

It was 4:30 p.m. when I left the dealership - 7 hours after I went in and $2,275 poorer!  But, I did receive two free bottles of water while I waited and a coupon for a free car wash!  Yay!  LOL.  

I was tired when I got home!  But, I took the trash cans out to the curb before I came inside and rested a bit, ate a snack (crackers, cheese, half an apple) and had a cup of tea.  Later, I watered the front garden and did two loads of laundry.  I had the last serving of soup with a piece of toast for dinner, chatted with friend R, replied to blog comments, and video chatted with my daughter.  

Today, I am grateful for:
- Getting the car serviced, new battery, new tires, didn't need new brakes this time
- A comfortable waiting room in which to wait
- Time to crochet while I waited
- N95 masks
- Being able to pay the bill for the car service and new battery and new tires, etc.

Today's joyful activity was crocheting while I waited for the car to be serviced.

Plans for Tuesday:
- Relaxing
- Putting away the laundry
- Meal planning and cooking

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

Errands on Thursday

 

Geranium

Thank you, everyone, for the New Year well wishes; they are much appreciated.  

I went to bed at 4:00 a.m., this morning, and woke up when cousin R called me at 9:00 a.m.  We had planned that I would go over to her house this evening to pick up my baking dish and some clothes she was giving us, but, she was calling to tell me that she had to go somewhere with her sister and wasn't sure if she'd be home before I got there.  She asked if I could come by tomorrow, instead.  But, I told her to leave the items outside and I will pick them up, this evening, as planned, because I wasn't sure what my daughter had planned for Friday evening.  Picking up the items this way would also eliminate any awkwardness about us wearing our masks while we were there!  So, cousin R said she will leave the bags outside with my name on them.  

I had a quiet rest of the morning, responding to blog comments and doing one or two things around the house.  I had some leftover fried rice for brunch and my daughter had leftover Thai seafood.  

In the afternoon, I finally decided to put gas to the car!  I was almost down to a quarter of a tank and I like to fill up the tank when it goes down to half.  When I pulled out from the garage, however, I noticed that the low air pressure sign had come on.  So, first, I drove to a tire shop and had someone check my tires; he said all four tires needed to have air put in them!  He didn't charge me for checking the air pressure, but, accepted the tip I gave him. 

Then, I drove to the gas station to fill the tank.  Gas at that station (one of the cheapest stations in my neighborhood) was $5.45/gallon and it was quite busy!  Gas at another station a few blocks away (selling the same brand of gas) was $5.79/gallon.  But, at least, gas is available and, although the gas station was busy, there was no line of cars waiting for gas.  

Afterwards, I came home and did a couple of things until my daughter finished her work for the day.  Then, we drove to cousin R's house and picked up two bags of clothes!  She had forgotten to leave out my baking pan, however!  Oh, well, not a problem; I'll collect it another time.

We came home and daughter said she was hungry, so she warmed up some chicken curry while I warmed up some of the frozen parathas we had bought at the Sri Lankan store, both the green chili parathas and the plain ones.  Then, we both had an early dinner!  

Afterwards, daughter tried on all the new-to-her clothes cousin R had given.  Two huge bags full!  At least a couple of the garments still had their tags on!  She selected a few of them to take with her - a couple of warm sweaters and long sleeved shirts (good thing she's taking the big suitcase!).  She will keep the rest here to wear when she comes down next and, of course, I'm to try them on, too, and take any that I like.  I really don't need any more clothes, so, I'll just leave them all for daughter to wear.

Today, I am grateful for:
- Cousin R's generosity
- The service technician at the tire shop for checking my tire air pressure for me
- The availability of gas for the car
- A safe drive to cousin R's and back
- Phone chats with family and friends

Today's joyful activity was admiring all the lovely clothes that cousin R has given!

Plans for tomorrow include doing some laundry and tending to the garden with M.

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

Breached!

This is the gate with the bunny blocking boards set in place by M on Friday (gate not locked in this picture):

The Gate Barrier Boards

All Openings Blocked

This is the metal fence blocking the entrance to the side yard (where I fell, by the way):

Side Yard Fence

It is barricaded with a fine wire mesh and more cardboard to cover the gaps where the mesh doesn't go all the way to the end.

And this is the Bun Bun who breached those barriers on Saturday:

Enjoying a Snack Under the Calamondin Tree

"Oh, Hi There, Lady!"

"Yum!"

"What's that?  Leave the Garden?
Oh, you are so funny, Lady"

He spent all evening in the garden.  Stripey cat would occasionally chase him, but, he was trying to play!  Bun Bun enjoyed some sweet potato leaves, as much of a newly planted Japanese purple mustard leaf as he could reach from between the wire mesh, some chrysanthemum buds, and grass; for dessert, he ate some of the cats' kibbles while I watched from the sliding glass door.  He left some fresh droppings as a thank you, I suppose.  I didn't see him leaving, but, he didn't show up, today (at least, I didn't see him!)

Maybe I should call him Super BunBun, because, surely he has some super powers to get through those barriers!

Today was a cloudy day, with some occasional sunshine.  The afternoon warmed up to around 73F, which was nice.  I slept in, this morning, then, said my morning prayers, chatted with Aunt C who called to tell me about the forecasted rain storm for tomorrow and with neighbor T who called for our usual Sunday chat.  

In the afternoon, I put gas to the car.  Gas at the cheapest station near my house was $4.26/gal.  Since I already had half a tank of gas, it cost me $36.89 to fill it.  The last time I put gas was on August 23, and I paid $4.15/gal.  I put $40 worth of gas, that time.  I didn't need to put any gas in September (one good thing about staying home during the pandemic is I don't use as much gas as I used to!)  I budget $50 per month for gas and any unspent gas money goes towards defraying other costs, such as higher than normal water bills, etc.

Later, I chatted with friend R, ran the dishwasher, cleaned the kitchen a bit, and read a little.

Today, I am grateful for:

- Phone calls from family and friends
- The availability of gas
- Warm afternoons
- Electricity, hot water on tap
- Working appliances

Today's joyful activity was reading.

Today's decluttering was 5 items of clothing (I haven't been posting my daily decluttering log as it is getting long, but, I am decluttering at least one item a day).

The big plan for tomorrow is the eye doctor's appointment.  We are supposed to get a major rain storm tomorrow and I am not looking forward to driving to the appointment and back in the rain!  It is the first major rain storm of the season and driving in southern California when it rains is not fun!

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

August Grocery Shopping Part 3

Today, I picked up the groceries I had ordered, yesterday.  

I bought:

1/2 gal. half & half = $3.99

2 lb. packet ground beef = $8.98

1 lb. pork loin "country style boneless ribs" = $2.44 

2+ lb. bananas (4 bananas) @ $.65/lb = $1.40

2 lb. container strawberries = $3.99

1 mini seedless watermelon = $1.99

2 mangoes @ $1.00 = $2.00

2+ lb. nectarines @ $1.48/lb = $3.35 

2 bottles (64 fl.oz each) apple juice @ $.99 = $1.98

2 ears of corn @ $.40 = $.80

1 loaf sandwich bread = $1.50

12 pkts. ramen noodles = $2.99

1 frozen pizza (18.22 oz) = $3.99

1 container (26 oz.) iodized salt = $.99

1 hot cheetos = $2.50

1 bag tortilla chips = $1.66

2 packs coffee filters @ $1.59 = $3.18

1 container (1.5 qt.)ice cream = $2.99

Sales tax (on coffee filters) = $0.30

Total = $51.02

(According to the receipt, the original cost of the order was $71.41 and I saved $20.39 due to sales and coupons; or $27.34 with the waived pick up fee of $6.95)

My August grocery budget is $250.

Spent to date: 

8/2 = $48.52 
8/14 = $90.56
8/24 = $51.02

Total spent = $48.52 + $90.56 + $51.02 = $190.10
Balance left in the grocery budget = $250 - $190.10 = $59.90

I am on track to stay within my budget, this month!

On the way to the grocery store, I stopped to put gas to the car.  This was actually the first time I've put gas to the car myself since March of 2020!  Until today, first M and then, my daughter, have been putting the gas for me.  But, today, I put on my N95 mask and went into the gas station to pay for the gas!  Gas was $4.15/gal. for the lowest octane gas at the neighborhood gas station; the same gas (same company of gas stations) was $4.19/gal. at the gas station near the grocery store.  I had just over 1/4 tank of gas in the car and I put $40 worth of gas; it was enough to fill the tank.   According to my notes, I last put gas to the car on July 15 when we put $40 worth of gas.  I budget $50 per month for gas, so there's some wiggle room in the budget if needed.  There was a time when I had to budget $100 per week for gas!  But, these days, I don't drive that much and most of my journeys are short trips to pick up groceries, drop something off at friend R's, etc.

Daughter helped me put away the groceries and I baked the pizza I had bought for our lunch.  Followed by some of the strawberries for dessert.  

I called the doctor's office to confirm tomorrow's appointment, this morning.  I was stressing about that for some reason, yesterday.  

I also received a call from my financial planner who was checking to see how I was doing.  She had received both doses of Covid vaccinations and still came down with Covid; she had been hospitalized and been on a ventilator; she is recovering now (has been home for a week) and is still on oxygen, still short of breath, etc.  But, she is recovering and credits it to being vaccinated; she said she would not have made it through if she hadn't been vaccinated!  I'm glad she's feeling better, now.  I've known her for several years; ever since my previous financial planner was killed in a car accident in 2013, and she became my FP.  We chatted for a few minutes and I promised to call and check on her, soon.

Monday's To Do List:

- Call the doctor's office to confirm Tuesday's appointment - DONE
- Put gas to the car - DONE
- Pick up groceries - DONE
- Take the trash cans to the curb
- Water the garden  

I will take the trash cans to the curb and water the garden in the evening.

My other To Do List, the one that keeps running in my head and which I wrote down, last night, before I went to sleep, also has dust the living room and dining room, clean the fridge, alter one blouse, tidy the rest of the linen closet, and clean the litter box.  I suppose I should get off the computer and get started on those items, too!

Today, I am grateful for:

- Being able to order groceries on line and free curbside pick up
- Availability of gas for the car
- N95 masks!
- My FP is recovering from her bout with Covid
- All the little every day blessings, like being alive, relatively healthy, being able to walk without pain, etc., that we tend to take for granted!

Today's joyful activity was enjoying some nice fresh strawberries after lunch.

I haven't decluttered anything, yet, today.  Maybe the linen closet will yield something!  

How is your August grocery shopping and grocery budget coming along?  

Wednesday's Adventures

Today (Wednesday), I took the car in for a much overdue service!  The last time I took it in was in January, 2020.  By the time the next service was due, we were in the middle of the pandemic and I didn't want to risk going to the service garage.  Besides, I wasn't driving it all that much, either, so it was fine. 

Today's service was the 40,000 mile service and it was estimated to take three hours.  In the past, I've waited in their waiting lounge while the car was being serviced, but, this time, I decided to accept their free shuttle service back home as their lounge area was being remodeled.

But, that meant I had to find my own way back there to pick up the car when it was ready, as they don't provide pick up services.  I was hoping M could give me a ride to the service garage when he came to water the garden, today, but, when I texted him to ask, he said his truck cab was full of stuff as he does other gardens before and after mine.  Instead, my daughter was able to obtain a ride through one of the ride services and their charge was about what I was planning to give M for gas to give me a ride to the service garage; we opted for the 15 minutes wait for the ride as the charges were cheaper, but, the ride was at my door in two minutes!  I was still putting on my shoes when it arrived, but, my daughter was able to ask the driver to wait!  

My car was ready for pick up in less than the estimated time and for less than the estimated cost!  I was happy, as that doesn't happen all the time!  

I got home shortly after M arrived; he apologized that he couldn't give me a ride, but, I told him not to worry about it.  M enjoyed the zucchini brownies and I gave him some to take home with him.  He also picked 15 zucchini, today!  He took two of them home with him; I couldn't persuade him to take more!

However, I asked the mail carrier if he'd like some zucchini and he said he'll take some tomorrow (he was in a bit of a rush, today, and I didn't have them bagged up, yet).  Daughter's friend A will be here this weekend and she has offered to take some zucchini, too, and I have another couple of neighbors to ask if they'd like some!  LOL.

For now, today's zucchini will have to sit on the kitchen counter as I haven't any room in the fridge for them!  

Later in the afternoon, I felt sleepy and took a nap.  I felt a bit queasy when I woke up (the sandwich I had eaten for lunch kept threatening to come back up), but, I took an antacid and drank some lemon-lime soda which settled it.  I had a light dinner of toast and a scrambled egg and feel fine, now.  

In the evening, I chatted with friend R and with aunt C.  

Today, I am grateful for:

- The  car service went well and cost less than they estimated, which was nice!
- I was able to get a free ride home and 
- I was able to get a ride back to the service garage with daughter's help for a reasonable charge
- M watered the garden for me
- Today's zucchini harvest!

Today's joyful activity was taking a nap!

Plans for tomorrow include some paperwork, doing a load of dishes, and testing out the new long handled litter box scooper that my daughter ordered for me and was delivered today!  

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

Saturday

 

Cornflowers

I woke up this morning calling out for my mother!  She had just died in my dream and I was at her funeral.  In my dream, I was calling out for her and the last time I called out, I did so aloud,  and it woke me up!  I guess I dreamt of her because it is Mother's Day, here, tomorrow?   Or, perhaps because I've been spending so much time in the garden, lately (she loved to garden).  Later in the morning, I picked a red rose that was growing in the garden and placed it in a vase near her photograph on the living room mantel.  

M stopped by in the afternoon to pick up something he had left behind, yesterday, and while he was here, he replaced the burnt out light bulb in the front porch light for me.  Later, I watered the back garden.  

Mourning Doves

This pair of mourning doves are regular visitors in the garden.  They come to eat the kibble I put out for the garden cats and they share the cats' water dish (when the cats are not around, of course!)  I was able to photograph them as they picked at some grass seeds and checked out the weeds I had pulled out from under the lemon trees:

Mourning Doves

One wanted to rest and the other one preened

In the evening, daughter and I went to the store to pick up some indoor cat food for Dancer.  I had bought a small bag of it for him when daughter was getting her second vaccination dose and he just loves it.  He finished the bag a couple of days ago and was looking for more!  He didn't want the regular dry food he used to eat!  So, daughter put in an order for two more bags of the indoor cat food and we picked it up (free curbside pick up).

On the way home, we put gas to the car.  I like to keep the gas tank at least half full, but, I had let it go down to quarter tank, this time!  The small earthquake we had earlier this evening was a good reminder about why I keep the tank at least half full - so that there is enough gas in the car to drive somewhere if there is an emergency (if we lose power as a result of a strong earthquake, gas pumps will not work).  Gas was $3.89 at the cheapest gas station and I put $40.00 worth.  

Then, for the first time since March 2020, we went to a drive through fast food place to pick up food to go!  Chicken nuggets for daughter, a hamburger for me, and fries to share!  

After dinner, I did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen, scrubbing under the stove burners, etc. 

Today, I am grateful for:
- Memories of my mother
- Garden flowers
- Garden visitors
- Gas for the car
- Indoor cat food for Dancer

Today's joyful activity was getting fast food for dinner!  

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