I admit I cringe every time Anna is in my presence. She is a nice enough person. She has one of the most interesting life stories of anyone I know. She not a bad person at all! She is just a talker. And she does not know when to stop talking.
If I am at the puzzle room, she does not bother me. She comes, sits and talks until I leave or someone else comes. I do not believe she knows how to end a conversation, or take a breath. If you would want to respond (which is really not necessary) you would have to jump in and interrupt. The occasional head nod, grunt or “ahem” will satisfy.
If I would actually listen I would know more about her family than I want to. I really don’t want to know much. She talks about the people she has met throughout the day. People she has gone to school with grown up with and worked with. Since she stops and talks to everyone she knows hundreds — maybe even thousand. Dare I say millions — feels like it? AND she wants to tell everyone she knows everything there is to know about everyone she knows. I am tearing my hair out as I write.
She popped in yesterday. I called at the door for her to come in, but had to go answer because she did not come in. She was talking to my neighbor while knocking at my door. I knew I was in trouble as soon as I saw her. She came to give me information I needed to make labels for her bazaar baking. It was written down (as I requested). I asked about the other things she is to provide: like the price she is charging and how many labels she needed. The whole thing should have taken two minutes. Maybe four minutes with some niceties thrown in.
Forty-five minutes later I gave up trying to hint at her leaving and told her I had to go to the restroom and stood up. She still went on another five minutes. I actually went into the bathroom, closed the door before she would leave. It made me miss a show I would have liked to watch. I now know that hinting is insufficient.
She called back today to ask about an item on the information sheet. We had covered it last night. The call was unnecessary. I don’t know why, but I have never liked telephones. To me they are for passing on information or making arrangements. Get what you need and get off the phone. As soon as I heard her voice, I became very direct and somewhat confrontational. I wanted off the phone. Naturally she had stories to tell me. I told her I did not have time for her stories. I didn’t. That did not stop her.
I did some laundry tonight and she caught me in the laundry room and began her stories right away. I would love to tell you what she said, but I didn’t listen. I walked out of the room when I got my things in the washer and she followed me to the puzzle table and kept the story going. She was there over a half hour until someone came to get her to show her something. Blessed is the woman who wanted to show her something. They left together.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
THEY DIDN'T COME
Yesterday was a huge disappointment to twelve from The Home. We had planned our annual Halloween potluck and only twelve showed up. Potlucks are the largest attended event we have each month. So—there was shock and dismay and disappointment and a ton of food left over. They spent most of their time trying to figure out what happened. I think I know.
One lady who loves to dress-up and who is in charge of the kitchen suggested we encourage our people to get into costume. While there was no demand such as “wear a costume or die,” it did say, “Please wear a costume.” I guess “please” is a very powerful word. I suspect that scared them off. Few ever want to do anything out of the ordinary! On the bright side, there were twelve people having a wonderful meal all dressed in costume. And of course, I was not one of them.
I have been staying with my grandson the past two days while mom and dad were at work. I love hanging out with him. Because of his surgery, he was rather listless, but just as talkative as ever. He is usually content if I will sit and watch him play video games. Since I have a terrible time figuring them out, I am content to watch. He did try to teach me to play a couple games. In reality the games were not that difficult, I just couldn’t get my fingers to move as fast as necessary. Great, now I have another part of my body that needs exercising.
I got him into something more my speed yesterday. We made dough Christmas ornaments. He is rather artistic and had a blast. He has good ideas and had fun adding little twists. The most fun was a bear shape we had. The bears ended up with noses, hats, and extended belly (like papa), socks and funky little cut marks. Other than powder and some dough globs on the table and floor, it went rather well.
I should have distributed the November newsletter two days ago but was not here. I must do that today. I am sure the twelve apostles who ate at the Halloween potluck will be very nervous about the Thanksgiving potluck we have scheduled. The big difference is that they won’t be required to come in costume. However, coming as pilgrims or Indians might be fun.
One lady who loves to dress-up and who is in charge of the kitchen suggested we encourage our people to get into costume. While there was no demand such as “wear a costume or die,” it did say, “Please wear a costume.” I guess “please” is a very powerful word. I suspect that scared them off. Few ever want to do anything out of the ordinary! On the bright side, there were twelve people having a wonderful meal all dressed in costume. And of course, I was not one of them.
I have been staying with my grandson the past two days while mom and dad were at work. I love hanging out with him. Because of his surgery, he was rather listless, but just as talkative as ever. He is usually content if I will sit and watch him play video games. Since I have a terrible time figuring them out, I am content to watch. He did try to teach me to play a couple games. In reality the games were not that difficult, I just couldn’t get my fingers to move as fast as necessary. Great, now I have another part of my body that needs exercising.
I got him into something more my speed yesterday. We made dough Christmas ornaments. He is rather artistic and had a blast. He has good ideas and had fun adding little twists. The most fun was a bear shape we had. The bears ended up with noses, hats, and extended belly (like papa), socks and funky little cut marks. Other than powder and some dough globs on the table and floor, it went rather well.
I should have distributed the November newsletter two days ago but was not here. I must do that today. I am sure the twelve apostles who ate at the Halloween potluck will be very nervous about the Thanksgiving potluck we have scheduled. The big difference is that they won’t be required to come in costume. However, coming as pilgrims or Indians might be fun.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
SHOTGUN EFFECT
Random thoughts about the happenings of the last few days:
My grandson had minor surgery on Tuesday. I picked up the girls from school and hung out with them preparing supper until mom and dad got home with my frandson. We had a fascinating talk about books. The middle child is an avid reader. Both girls like sad books. Couldn’t really find out why.
It was most interesting when we transitioned to family. My wife’s side has been traced back to the 1100’s in France. They moved to Scotland and got established and developed connections to royalty. I thought this might be interesting, but #1 child said she didn’t care much about that side of the family because they aren’t blood relatives. I guess that is true in one sense but not legally. My daughter is adopted. She assumed that was the start of a new family and therefore is not connection to our side of the family before her mom. I had to laugh. Then asked if that meant I wasn’t her Papa? No was her papa. So how does that work if her mom’s side of the family is not blood relatives? She was stunned and staggered for a moment. Well, you are my papa. Mom and dad arrived and the conversation was over. I would love to have explored that more.
Wednesday was my regular doctors appointment. Besides the normal talk about diabetes and high blood pressure I pushed to get answers to other issues. He kept trying to get away, but I would not let him.
Our talk led to a cortisone shot in my left elbow. I’ve had pain for several weeks and it just would not go away. My hand was beginning to shake making my art rather difficult.
I am now scheduled for a colonoscopy next week. I’m not excited. I had one at age 50 and was not put under for the procedure. I just squirmed with the weirdness, and leaked most of the day. I have taken two friends for the same tests since moving here and they were so drugged out when I brought them home neither remembered anything that happened until after 6 pm. They weren’t even sure I brought them home. The test will also check for a botched rear end alignment about 12 years ago. Had hemorrhoids removed and things were not put back correctly. Yuck!
I’m also being sent to an urologist. Problems on both sides! And finally I am being sent for a mammogram to see why I have pain in my chest. He thinks it may be a cyst.
OK. I accept that I am falling apart. No, I am not fearful for any of it. I admit that I do not like pain and hate drugs even though I load up on them daily. I keep trying to get rid of some, but he keeps adding instead. I may open my own pharmacy.
I stayed with my grandson today and will also do it tomorrow. We always have a good time. We watched “How to Train Your Dragon” learned to play some DS games (I didn’t know what it was either – he had to teach me – and I never won). and cleaned the kitchen. I was surprised. The best thing we did that he enjoyed was clean the kitchen. Go figure. He was so proud that the first thing he said to mom was “Look at the kitchen” Good kid.
My grandson had minor surgery on Tuesday. I picked up the girls from school and hung out with them preparing supper until mom and dad got home with my frandson. We had a fascinating talk about books. The middle child is an avid reader. Both girls like sad books. Couldn’t really find out why.
It was most interesting when we transitioned to family. My wife’s side has been traced back to the 1100’s in France. They moved to Scotland and got established and developed connections to royalty. I thought this might be interesting, but #1 child said she didn’t care much about that side of the family because they aren’t blood relatives. I guess that is true in one sense but not legally. My daughter is adopted. She assumed that was the start of a new family and therefore is not connection to our side of the family before her mom. I had to laugh. Then asked if that meant I wasn’t her Papa? No was her papa. So how does that work if her mom’s side of the family is not blood relatives? She was stunned and staggered for a moment. Well, you are my papa. Mom and dad arrived and the conversation was over. I would love to have explored that more.
Wednesday was my regular doctors appointment. Besides the normal talk about diabetes and high blood pressure I pushed to get answers to other issues. He kept trying to get away, but I would not let him.
Our talk led to a cortisone shot in my left elbow. I’ve had pain for several weeks and it just would not go away. My hand was beginning to shake making my art rather difficult.
I am now scheduled for a colonoscopy next week. I’m not excited. I had one at age 50 and was not put under for the procedure. I just squirmed with the weirdness, and leaked most of the day. I have taken two friends for the same tests since moving here and they were so drugged out when I brought them home neither remembered anything that happened until after 6 pm. They weren’t even sure I brought them home. The test will also check for a botched rear end alignment about 12 years ago. Had hemorrhoids removed and things were not put back correctly. Yuck!
I’m also being sent to an urologist. Problems on both sides! And finally I am being sent for a mammogram to see why I have pain in my chest. He thinks it may be a cyst.
OK. I accept that I am falling apart. No, I am not fearful for any of it. I admit that I do not like pain and hate drugs even though I load up on them daily. I keep trying to get rid of some, but he keeps adding instead. I may open my own pharmacy.
I stayed with my grandson today and will also do it tomorrow. We always have a good time. We watched “How to Train Your Dragon” learned to play some DS games (I didn’t know what it was either – he had to teach me – and I never won). and cleaned the kitchen. I was surprised. The best thing we did that he enjoyed was clean the kitchen. Go figure. He was so proud that the first thing he said to mom was “Look at the kitchen” Good kid.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
THERE'S ALWAYS ONE
I voted today. I considered as my write in none of the above. It’s not that I don’t have a political leaning, I do. I just don’t like any of the candidates. It is not even a consideration to vote for the lesser of two evils. On the upper levels, that all seem to be equally evil. The ads are not completely honest, just terribly deceptive. It is so bad one can hardly tell the good guys from the bad guys. I wish they wore black or white hats. It would help/ At least I knew Roy Rogers was good.
I have worked with volunteers all my life. Nothing seems to surprise me when it happens. They timing is what is surprising. There are three separate housing situations on three connecting properties. #1 is exclusively public housing. One must be in on section 8 to move in there. #2 and #3 are assisted housing meaning you must have a limited income and will not be charged full price. #1 is also individual units with back yards and front porches. The other two are apartments off central hallways. #1 in managed differently from the others. However, #1 does come to many of our events while not specifically included. Make Sense? Yea, I’m not clear either.
Today, eleven days before out Bazaar, which will be held in the commons room of #1, a resident from that place is on the war path and extremely angry about people from #2 and #3 using their space.
A note went out today asking them not to do their laundry on Nov. 6. It’s in a room off their commons room. We are there because there is no access to the resident apartments. This wonderful person has chosen to ignore all the announcements that have been published as far back March of this year. Comments have been in every newsletter – which they get. Not that the event is upon us, she wants it removed form their commons area as we are not residents of #1. I could scream. Just a minute, I think I will. That feels better. Naturally this woman is loud and confrontational. She is the kind who will make a scene just because she can. I should be prepared for her to do just that.
How do you prepare for a loud mouth monster charging in like a bull in a china shop? I will not lock the door. It defeats the purpose. A stun gun is unacceptable, although I am fond of the idea. Maybe I will introduce her as the half tie entertainment. Hope she’s funny. I guess I will try and come up with a few funny comebacks to throw her way. Hope I’m funny. I guess it's to late to put her on the ballot and just vote her out.
I have worked with volunteers all my life. Nothing seems to surprise me when it happens. They timing is what is surprising. There are three separate housing situations on three connecting properties. #1 is exclusively public housing. One must be in on section 8 to move in there. #2 and #3 are assisted housing meaning you must have a limited income and will not be charged full price. #1 is also individual units with back yards and front porches. The other two are apartments off central hallways. #1 in managed differently from the others. However, #1 does come to many of our events while not specifically included. Make Sense? Yea, I’m not clear either.
Today, eleven days before out Bazaar, which will be held in the commons room of #1, a resident from that place is on the war path and extremely angry about people from #2 and #3 using their space.
A note went out today asking them not to do their laundry on Nov. 6. It’s in a room off their commons room. We are there because there is no access to the resident apartments. This wonderful person has chosen to ignore all the announcements that have been published as far back March of this year. Comments have been in every newsletter – which they get. Not that the event is upon us, she wants it removed form their commons area as we are not residents of #1. I could scream. Just a minute, I think I will. That feels better. Naturally this woman is loud and confrontational. She is the kind who will make a scene just because she can. I should be prepared for her to do just that.
How do you prepare for a loud mouth monster charging in like a bull in a china shop? I will not lock the door. It defeats the purpose. A stun gun is unacceptable, although I am fond of the idea. Maybe I will introduce her as the half tie entertainment. Hope she’s funny. I guess I will try and come up with a few funny comebacks to throw her way. Hope I’m funny. I guess it's to late to put her on the ballot and just vote her out.
Monday, October 25, 2010
NO TO ME!
Yikes. This is new to me. Never had this happen. It’s close to the end of the month and since I live on a very tight budget and am always slightly fearful of overdrawing my account, I check it regularly.
I was on line yesterday and everything was fine. This morning it felt like my heart dropped into my shoes. There was a pending charge on my account for $99.90 from a company called SOFTWARE-RETAIL BAKU, AK.
First of all, I haven’t bought any software in years. Second, there is no way I would charge anything that large to my account this late in the month. I’m watching pennies at this time. Besides, I have a Bazaar I have been preparing for and have had extra expenses this month. I’m very tight. Third, who are these people?
I immediately called my bank to find out what happened. Nathan told me to Google the name and see who they were. He had no address or phone number in the banks system. Thinking that was a good idea and wondering why I didn’t think of it myself, I did just that. I could not find the company but the name did come up — IN A FRAUD LIST.
I called the bank right back because some of the reports indicated it was difficult to get the money back once it went through. Thankfully I got immediate help and the charge was dropped from my account before it went through. You may have been through something like in the past, but I have not. I closed my credit card account and they will send me a new one. I only use that account, as a debit and never purchase anything over what is actually available. I’ve been stung before. So now I will get a new card.
While living in Oregon, I had several new cards because the banks ATM machine kept eating my card. If I didn’t grab the card immediately after competition of the transaction, it swallowed my card. I’m sure it was the fastest ATM machine in the west.
We read about fraud all the time and I tend to think it will not happen to me. Wrong! I do get plenty of emails informing me that I have won some incredibly large sum of money from a lottery in England, Ireland, Nigeria and other places, mostly African nations. While I am reading what I have won they have not actually sent me what is rightfully mine (they said it was mine). If they would send it, I would be right up there with Gates and Buffet as one of the worlds wealthiest men. After all, I do get these reports almost weekly.
But, alas, no money! So I sing right along with Tevya, “Would it spoil some eternal plan, Oh God, if I were a rich man?”
I was on line yesterday and everything was fine. This morning it felt like my heart dropped into my shoes. There was a pending charge on my account for $99.90 from a company called SOFTWARE-RETAIL BAKU, AK.
First of all, I haven’t bought any software in years. Second, there is no way I would charge anything that large to my account this late in the month. I’m watching pennies at this time. Besides, I have a Bazaar I have been preparing for and have had extra expenses this month. I’m very tight. Third, who are these people?
I immediately called my bank to find out what happened. Nathan told me to Google the name and see who they were. He had no address or phone number in the banks system. Thinking that was a good idea and wondering why I didn’t think of it myself, I did just that. I could not find the company but the name did come up — IN A FRAUD LIST.
I called the bank right back because some of the reports indicated it was difficult to get the money back once it went through. Thankfully I got immediate help and the charge was dropped from my account before it went through. You may have been through something like in the past, but I have not. I closed my credit card account and they will send me a new one. I only use that account, as a debit and never purchase anything over what is actually available. I’ve been stung before. So now I will get a new card.
While living in Oregon, I had several new cards because the banks ATM machine kept eating my card. If I didn’t grab the card immediately after competition of the transaction, it swallowed my card. I’m sure it was the fastest ATM machine in the west.
We read about fraud all the time and I tend to think it will not happen to me. Wrong! I do get plenty of emails informing me that I have won some incredibly large sum of money from a lottery in England, Ireland, Nigeria and other places, mostly African nations. While I am reading what I have won they have not actually sent me what is rightfully mine (they said it was mine). If they would send it, I would be right up there with Gates and Buffet as one of the worlds wealthiest men. After all, I do get these reports almost weekly.
But, alas, no money! So I sing right along with Tevya, “Would it spoil some eternal plan, Oh God, if I were a rich man?”
Friday, October 22, 2010
IT's OVER
The inspection has come and gone. Surprisingly, everyone survived. I say surprising because of all the pre-inspection fears. You would have thought the world was coming to an end.
It was a simple inspection. They secured model numbers off the fridge and stove, checked for leaking water, checked that the heaters worked and left. That’s what they normally do.
They have finished all apartments now so everyone is relaxed. For me — I’m in the midst of final preparations for our Bazaar on Nov. 6. Just finished a final note for vendors and am about to prepare a brochure for portraits that I can complete before Christmas. If I can get headshots only, I can do one every two days. I will try to work for every three days. Need a cushion as I tire easily these days.
I have my Christmas cards ready. They are mostly humorous. I have a beautiful one I am working on my personal use, but doubt it will be ready by the Bazaar. It will reflect the meaning of Christmas.
I am tasting samples of the baking being done for the Bazaar. I will definitely gain weight. Love the candy. Very sweet! Reminds me for the candy my wife’s mother made.
Have a great weekend. I don’t think I will be able to post again until Monday.
It was a simple inspection. They secured model numbers off the fridge and stove, checked for leaking water, checked that the heaters worked and left. That’s what they normally do.
They have finished all apartments now so everyone is relaxed. For me — I’m in the midst of final preparations for our Bazaar on Nov. 6. Just finished a final note for vendors and am about to prepare a brochure for portraits that I can complete before Christmas. If I can get headshots only, I can do one every two days. I will try to work for every three days. Need a cushion as I tire easily these days.
I have my Christmas cards ready. They are mostly humorous. I have a beautiful one I am working on my personal use, but doubt it will be ready by the Bazaar. It will reflect the meaning of Christmas.
I am tasting samples of the baking being done for the Bazaar. I will definitely gain weight. Love the candy. Very sweet! Reminds me for the candy my wife’s mother made.
Have a great weekend. I don’t think I will be able to post again until Monday.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
NOT WHAT I PLANNED
The day is not quite over and I still have a pile of things to do before I head off to bed. Like a lot of days in most of our lives, this day did not go as planned.
I got up late. So my day started with a rush. I got dressed and had a drink of water. Took my pills and gave myself a shot. I grabbed my empty coffee and headed out the door. Empty coffee cup sounds silly, but we have to bring our own cup to coffee. We are saving the earth.
I picked up my bread wars helper and drove off to Oroweat. We joked with a few of our competitors until the door opens then we rush in to get first crack at the loaves of bread. Bad picking today! We got only nine loaves. But there were plenty of bagels, muffins, thins, and buns of all sorts. This selection will not make the troops very happy.
I have already written (previous post) about the gossip of the morning. I needed out of there, but it was hard to escape. Everyone had a take on the car being towed and I needed to hear it all so I could write about it. Since then I have isolated myself trying to catch up on things. The newsletter info is due Friday. I have the weekend before I must turn it in, so I’m not really rushed personally, but I wrote notes to people who need to get information to me. It won’t come if I don’t remind them.
I straightened some things up and then went to make a sandwich to eat while driving to my doctor’s appointment. I opened the freezer to get bread and noticed that most things were thawed. It’s been a couple of days since I was in the freezer, but since my ice cream was not completely melted, I assumed it had not been off very long. I checked everything else and decided to pull it all and take it to the freezer in the big kitchen. Some will be OK, but I don’t like crystallized ice cream.
At the moment I began this project, I had to leave for the doctors. So I called about my fridge while driving. That’s a big no-no.
I thought my blood readings were pretty good. He set me straight. Most were bad. The only numbers I seem to remember are from when I first got diabetes. For some reason the acceptable numbers have been lowered. Sounds like reaching the age of retirement. About the time you get there, they bump is up a couple years. I’m losing this battle. I guess I will have to give up ice cream (it really is all no sugar added).
When I got home they were installing my new fridge. I had twenty minutes before my daughter was coming to take me to my oldest granddaughters last volleyball game. We were late. 1 and ¾ rounds were finished at arrival. My granddaughter got in for three minutes before the round ended. They lost both rounds. The other team had won. However, they play a third round so players get some competition practice. Fine, maybe I’ll actually see her play. No, she’s one of the better players. The final round was completely given to those who need the practice the most. I guess I should be proud, but I really wanted to see her play.
I would not have survived as a parent if my life had been as hectic has my little families. We were late because my son-in-law had to finish at school and my daughter had to finish at work then run to meet the two little’s at the school bus stop. Then she had to come get me. We were almost an hour late.
Most of the time during the waning minutes at this school which was struck way out in the middle of no where, they were planning how to handle the rest of the night. Child #1 goes to youth group later tonight. Child #2 had soccer practice at 5:00 — we are late. Child #3 has soccer practice at 5:30. We are late. Not as late for him as for her. On arrival for his practice, the coach informs us that he must finish 10 minutes early. My daughter says OK. However, because I have an apartment inspections beginning tomorrow, my daughter was coming to help me finish my cleaning. We leave the practice field for #3’s practice and have 40 minutes left before he must be picked up.
We rush to my place. My daughter brings her own vacuum because, as my granddaughter says, papa’s vacuum sucks. The truth is that it doesn’t suck at all. She quickly vacuumed my floor and then says she is giving the vacuum to me. She has another one. I am very happy.
Of course I still have much to do yet so I sat down to write. What an idiot. Then my upstairs neighbor comes to review the day. Now I need a break for Survivor. I wish I had a vote. I know exactly who to get rid of. I would also like to vote people out of The Home, but I don’t think they will let me.
I got up late. So my day started with a rush. I got dressed and had a drink of water. Took my pills and gave myself a shot. I grabbed my empty coffee and headed out the door. Empty coffee cup sounds silly, but we have to bring our own cup to coffee. We are saving the earth.
I picked up my bread wars helper and drove off to Oroweat. We joked with a few of our competitors until the door opens then we rush in to get first crack at the loaves of bread. Bad picking today! We got only nine loaves. But there were plenty of bagels, muffins, thins, and buns of all sorts. This selection will not make the troops very happy.
I have already written (previous post) about the gossip of the morning. I needed out of there, but it was hard to escape. Everyone had a take on the car being towed and I needed to hear it all so I could write about it. Since then I have isolated myself trying to catch up on things. The newsletter info is due Friday. I have the weekend before I must turn it in, so I’m not really rushed personally, but I wrote notes to people who need to get information to me. It won’t come if I don’t remind them.
I straightened some things up and then went to make a sandwich to eat while driving to my doctor’s appointment. I opened the freezer to get bread and noticed that most things were thawed. It’s been a couple of days since I was in the freezer, but since my ice cream was not completely melted, I assumed it had not been off very long. I checked everything else and decided to pull it all and take it to the freezer in the big kitchen. Some will be OK, but I don’t like crystallized ice cream.
At the moment I began this project, I had to leave for the doctors. So I called about my fridge while driving. That’s a big no-no.
I thought my blood readings were pretty good. He set me straight. Most were bad. The only numbers I seem to remember are from when I first got diabetes. For some reason the acceptable numbers have been lowered. Sounds like reaching the age of retirement. About the time you get there, they bump is up a couple years. I’m losing this battle. I guess I will have to give up ice cream (it really is all no sugar added).
When I got home they were installing my new fridge. I had twenty minutes before my daughter was coming to take me to my oldest granddaughters last volleyball game. We were late. 1 and ¾ rounds were finished at arrival. My granddaughter got in for three minutes before the round ended. They lost both rounds. The other team had won. However, they play a third round so players get some competition practice. Fine, maybe I’ll actually see her play. No, she’s one of the better players. The final round was completely given to those who need the practice the most. I guess I should be proud, but I really wanted to see her play.
I would not have survived as a parent if my life had been as hectic has my little families. We were late because my son-in-law had to finish at school and my daughter had to finish at work then run to meet the two little’s at the school bus stop. Then she had to come get me. We were almost an hour late.
Most of the time during the waning minutes at this school which was struck way out in the middle of no where, they were planning how to handle the rest of the night. Child #1 goes to youth group later tonight. Child #2 had soccer practice at 5:00 — we are late. Child #3 has soccer practice at 5:30. We are late. Not as late for him as for her. On arrival for his practice, the coach informs us that he must finish 10 minutes early. My daughter says OK. However, because I have an apartment inspections beginning tomorrow, my daughter was coming to help me finish my cleaning. We leave the practice field for #3’s practice and have 40 minutes left before he must be picked up.
We rush to my place. My daughter brings her own vacuum because, as my granddaughter says, papa’s vacuum sucks. The truth is that it doesn’t suck at all. She quickly vacuumed my floor and then says she is giving the vacuum to me. She has another one. I am very happy.
Of course I still have much to do yet so I sat down to write. What an idiot. Then my upstairs neighbor comes to review the day. Now I need a break for Survivor. I wish I had a vote. I know exactly who to get rid of. I would also like to vote people out of The Home, but I don’t think they will let me.
PARKING
We have a problem at The Home. I have no idea what the situation was when the buildings were built, this may not have been an issue at the time, but it is now. There is not enough parking for the residents. The last building is only eleven years old, so I assume someone was just not thinking ahead — but who knows things may have changed. Maybe we are just healthier than eleven years ago. Maybe we are driving longer. Maybe there are just more of us with cars. Who knows?
The plot is small. There were eight spaces set aside for visitors, care givers and anyone else who happens on the property. All eight are now needed for residents. A decision has been made to restrict what on site parking we have for residents only. Those not in the garage are demanding it. The next problem is that there is no on street parking. There is a large restaurant with parking across the street. Some park there, but they are taking their lives in their hands to cross the street. When parking there one crosses illegally on a curve. Cars fly around that curve like it was a raceway. But some guests do it anyway. It is assumed they are younger and faster than our residents.
There is a small strip mall across from my building. Some park there, but very few. They have tow away signs everywhere. People are told to park in a lot owned by the school district across the street at the back of the property. That means guests have to walk a half a block through our property to get to the front doors were they can be buzzed into the building. This doesn’t affect me as I am on that far end and the only people coming to visit me call me on the my cell when they arrive and I let them in the back door. They park there anyway as it is the closest for them.
This is all well and good, but management is establishing the change today and plan to tow away cars immediately. They are installing a limited number of signs to mark the change, but it is possible these signs can be blocked. It seems it would have been better to put a sign at each parking space just like is done for disabled parking (I suspect I screwed up the proper terminology for that space).
This is being added after a car was towed away yesterday. It could not have happened to a more volatile, angry, vocal and hostile resident whose guest was her niece. The situation really is different. The niece was parked illegally and blocking a residents car. There was a sign posted. Our man did everything he could to find out who the driver was or whom they were visiting. No one recognized the car. The car had sat there about two hours before it was towed. It cost the offender $125 to get the car out. Not bad really, but certainly annoying. The impound lot of the towing company is only three blocks away.
The yelling and screaming has only just begun. Maria is not to be tangled with lightly. She has already made plenty of noise and it will go one for weeks. It does not matter that the car was parked illegally, no car has ever been towed before and this was Marias family. There will be hell to pay.
I just hope the man who made the call has tough skin. He will now have a permanent enemy. Forgiveness it not a part of Marias life.
The plot is small. There were eight spaces set aside for visitors, care givers and anyone else who happens on the property. All eight are now needed for residents. A decision has been made to restrict what on site parking we have for residents only. Those not in the garage are demanding it. The next problem is that there is no on street parking. There is a large restaurant with parking across the street. Some park there, but they are taking their lives in their hands to cross the street. When parking there one crosses illegally on a curve. Cars fly around that curve like it was a raceway. But some guests do it anyway. It is assumed they are younger and faster than our residents.
There is a small strip mall across from my building. Some park there, but very few. They have tow away signs everywhere. People are told to park in a lot owned by the school district across the street at the back of the property. That means guests have to walk a half a block through our property to get to the front doors were they can be buzzed into the building. This doesn’t affect me as I am on that far end and the only people coming to visit me call me on the my cell when they arrive and I let them in the back door. They park there anyway as it is the closest for them.
This is all well and good, but management is establishing the change today and plan to tow away cars immediately. They are installing a limited number of signs to mark the change, but it is possible these signs can be blocked. It seems it would have been better to put a sign at each parking space just like is done for disabled parking (I suspect I screwed up the proper terminology for that space).
This is being added after a car was towed away yesterday. It could not have happened to a more volatile, angry, vocal and hostile resident whose guest was her niece. The situation really is different. The niece was parked illegally and blocking a residents car. There was a sign posted. Our man did everything he could to find out who the driver was or whom they were visiting. No one recognized the car. The car had sat there about two hours before it was towed. It cost the offender $125 to get the car out. Not bad really, but certainly annoying. The impound lot of the towing company is only three blocks away.
The yelling and screaming has only just begun. Maria is not to be tangled with lightly. She has already made plenty of noise and it will go one for weeks. It does not matter that the car was parked illegally, no car has ever been towed before and this was Marias family. There will be hell to pay.
I just hope the man who made the call has tough skin. He will now have a permanent enemy. Forgiveness it not a part of Marias life.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
BUSY BUSY
I am in the midst of preparation for the Bazaar. I have not only my things to get ready, but a few others as well, especially the bakers. The ladies I have are terrific bakers, but struggle with packaging for display. I want their things to show well and not look messy. Because of the limited space, items must be able to stack. That means lids of some sort. I purchased some things for them. They will pay be back out of profits (if there are any).
On top of all my own prep, which is going into overdrive, Management has decided to throw in a thorough inspection this Thursday. They added some things thus year. Usually all they are terribly concerned about is leaking water (they pay for the water), a working smoke detector, items cleared from the heaters and our ability to escape from a window in case of fire. I wish the architect had given thought to that when he placed things where they are. There is very little clear wall space and the apartment is too small to center the furniture – unless the backs of things were put to the middle.
They placed a heater under the window not designed to escape. So we are not supposed to have anything in front of either window. That takes care of more of our wall space. My living room is fine. The TV sits between the windows. The side windows are not a problem because I have the front window to get out. However, it would be a challenge to get out of any windows in my bedroom. When I set it up that way, I reasoned that all I had to do was knock over the bookcase, use it as a step stool and out I go. I think that is still true. Whether they will accept my reasoning in another issue. Also, nothing is to block the electrical panel. My bookcase is 1/4 inch too high. I would have to move the bookcase in my living room to keep that clear. That would be a problem – I can’t think of another place to put the bookcase. I don’t want to spend the money to get another one.
My oldest granddaughter has just begun to come by every other week to clean for me. She did a good job when she was here so I don't have to do as much. But still, when I work, things get spread everywhere. I have been designing Christmas cards. After I get one done I set it out to look at from time to time and then come back and add or change something, I end up going through 4-6 changes before I am satisfied. My sofa is covered, the table beside me is covered, and TV trays are covered. I have one tray set up for my paper cutter. This is when I miss a large table. Of course there is no room for any table in here and I am using the drawing board.
The natives here are always restless. I don't believe there is a way to make someone happy who is determined to be angry. I like the new maintenance man. He is tough and will take no guff. He was working on repairing the entrance from the garage to the main building. The walls along the way are seriously banged up. He is installing vinyl to protect the walls. In the process he mentioned that he was going to return all the carts people have dragged here from various area grocers. That's a great idea but it will greatly deplete our cart supply. I believe there are only four here that the housing authority has purchased and two of them had loose baskets on top and the baskets have been stolen. Go figure.
One of our regular complainers let him have it for even suggesting he would get rid of the stolen carts. "What will we do?" He blasted right back — We are not keeping stolen goods here even if someone with memory problems brought them here. Get used to it. I loved it. Our guy is a hard worker and not just maintaining things, but also actually improving this place. I love it. We now have cool automatic doors at the front. Insert a key and both doors open. It's great when your arms are full.
I look forward to whats next. I know he’s working on new carpeting for the public areas. What we have in most places is 16-17 years old. It shows it just like the rest of us.
On top of all my own prep, which is going into overdrive, Management has decided to throw in a thorough inspection this Thursday. They added some things thus year. Usually all they are terribly concerned about is leaking water (they pay for the water), a working smoke detector, items cleared from the heaters and our ability to escape from a window in case of fire. I wish the architect had given thought to that when he placed things where they are. There is very little clear wall space and the apartment is too small to center the furniture – unless the backs of things were put to the middle.
They placed a heater under the window not designed to escape. So we are not supposed to have anything in front of either window. That takes care of more of our wall space. My living room is fine. The TV sits between the windows. The side windows are not a problem because I have the front window to get out. However, it would be a challenge to get out of any windows in my bedroom. When I set it up that way, I reasoned that all I had to do was knock over the bookcase, use it as a step stool and out I go. I think that is still true. Whether they will accept my reasoning in another issue. Also, nothing is to block the electrical panel. My bookcase is 1/4 inch too high. I would have to move the bookcase in my living room to keep that clear. That would be a problem – I can’t think of another place to put the bookcase. I don’t want to spend the money to get another one.
My oldest granddaughter has just begun to come by every other week to clean for me. She did a good job when she was here so I don't have to do as much. But still, when I work, things get spread everywhere. I have been designing Christmas cards. After I get one done I set it out to look at from time to time and then come back and add or change something, I end up going through 4-6 changes before I am satisfied. My sofa is covered, the table beside me is covered, and TV trays are covered. I have one tray set up for my paper cutter. This is when I miss a large table. Of course there is no room for any table in here and I am using the drawing board.
The natives here are always restless. I don't believe there is a way to make someone happy who is determined to be angry. I like the new maintenance man. He is tough and will take no guff. He was working on repairing the entrance from the garage to the main building. The walls along the way are seriously banged up. He is installing vinyl to protect the walls. In the process he mentioned that he was going to return all the carts people have dragged here from various area grocers. That's a great idea but it will greatly deplete our cart supply. I believe there are only four here that the housing authority has purchased and two of them had loose baskets on top and the baskets have been stolen. Go figure.
One of our regular complainers let him have it for even suggesting he would get rid of the stolen carts. "What will we do?" He blasted right back — We are not keeping stolen goods here even if someone with memory problems brought them here. Get used to it. I loved it. Our guy is a hard worker and not just maintaining things, but also actually improving this place. I love it. We now have cool automatic doors at the front. Insert a key and both doors open. It's great when your arms are full.
I look forward to whats next. I know he’s working on new carpeting for the public areas. What we have in most places is 16-17 years old. It shows it just like the rest of us.
Monday, October 18, 2010
POLITICS
I vote and I take it seriously. I read the material, I listen to some of the interviews and I can’t help but hear the ads. Some I have heard so often I might be able to quote them. To me, the ads are useless. They rarely say anything. I know what they think of their opponent and what a terrible job the enemy would do if elected, but I have no idea what they would do if elected. I don’t think it is just I, but it seems the only purpose of ads is to sling mud. The voter learns nothing.
When they do say something about what they have done it is filled with half-truths and the sense that they have super powers, and that no other person contributed to that vote. They alone are able to propose a vote at a single motion. They are able to spend money at the drop of a coin. They can spend money beyond our means without a thought. They alone are able to change the world the world at the whisper of their voice.
I know what they think. But do they know what I think?
I want an option on the ballot that says “None of the above.”
I want more choice than the two party systems provides. They are both screwed up. That’s not choice.
I want an honest politician. I know, I dream.
I want someone who cares more about the people and not about themselves, their retirement, their pension and their salary at the expense of the voted.
I want someone to stand up against absolutely stupid earmarks such as the study of the sex habits of the tetsy-tetsy fly — Just an example.
I want someone who has the guts to help the people and not the mega corporations. Why do they need help? Let them get a loan like I have to.
I want someone to forget about party loyalty and vote for the greater good.
I want someone to stop trying to prove their party is better, did more or had the only solution. You both stink. Help people, fix essential structures, and protect us.
I want someone who knows the difference between levels of government and stays in their own realm.
I want someone who understands that the economy is going south and really is working to turn the direction. Stop fighting and fix the system. And stop blaming everyone else.
I want someone to finally do the right thing. That may mean being lonely, standing against the system, or turning their back on the normal way.
I want the campaigning season changed from all the time to three months or less or fine the suckers for harassment.
I want a limit on ads. I do not want to see the same ad three times during the same program break. I want a moratorium on mail. Save the trees.
I want to see politicians stop trying to get me to hate their opponent by ragging on them without getting to the business of figuring out what they can do, if anything. I want peace from politics.
I’m sure I want more. I may have even sounded political and rattled on without saying a thing. I am so tired of the system I think all politicians should be limited to a single term. If they can’t do anything in one term why do we think they can do more in multiple terms? What makes them better by spending their career isolated from reality? It seems that all they learn it to shaft us even more. Do what we have to do when we lose our jobs or have our wages cut. Drop things out of the budget. Spending my way out of debt has never worked for me.
When they do say something about what they have done it is filled with half-truths and the sense that they have super powers, and that no other person contributed to that vote. They alone are able to propose a vote at a single motion. They are able to spend money at the drop of a coin. They can spend money beyond our means without a thought. They alone are able to change the world the world at the whisper of their voice.
I know what they think. But do they know what I think?
I want an option on the ballot that says “None of the above.”
I want more choice than the two party systems provides. They are both screwed up. That’s not choice.
I want an honest politician. I know, I dream.
I want someone who cares more about the people and not about themselves, their retirement, their pension and their salary at the expense of the voted.
I want someone to stand up against absolutely stupid earmarks such as the study of the sex habits of the tetsy-tetsy fly — Just an example.
I want someone who has the guts to help the people and not the mega corporations. Why do they need help? Let them get a loan like I have to.
I want someone to forget about party loyalty and vote for the greater good.
I want someone to stop trying to prove their party is better, did more or had the only solution. You both stink. Help people, fix essential structures, and protect us.
I want someone who knows the difference between levels of government and stays in their own realm.
I want someone who understands that the economy is going south and really is working to turn the direction. Stop fighting and fix the system. And stop blaming everyone else.
I want someone to finally do the right thing. That may mean being lonely, standing against the system, or turning their back on the normal way.
I want the campaigning season changed from all the time to three months or less or fine the suckers for harassment.
I want a limit on ads. I do not want to see the same ad three times during the same program break. I want a moratorium on mail. Save the trees.
I want to see politicians stop trying to get me to hate their opponent by ragging on them without getting to the business of figuring out what they can do, if anything. I want peace from politics.
I’m sure I want more. I may have even sounded political and rattled on without saying a thing. I am so tired of the system I think all politicians should be limited to a single term. If they can’t do anything in one term why do we think they can do more in multiple terms? What makes them better by spending their career isolated from reality? It seems that all they learn it to shaft us even more. Do what we have to do when we lose our jobs or have our wages cut. Drop things out of the budget. Spending my way out of debt has never worked for me.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
GAMBLING
Casinos are very popular among the senior residents of any retirement center. If you doubt it, just visit any casino near or far and check out the patrons. They are glued to their stools at the penny and nickel machines with a cigarette dangling from the corner of their mouth and a drink on the machine. If their doctor has demanded they give up smoking and drinking they are sucking on hard candies and drinking free cokes. Now that they are old and broke, they plan to strike it rich.
In fairness to the vast majority gambling is just extended entertainment. Many set a limit and stick to it. On return from the outing results are reported only if they won. No one ever has any doubts about how things went at the casino. For most, it is fun and they won’t lose more than they can afford (which isn’t much). Many have a maximum casino donation of $20.00. However there are a few.
One of our residents went with friends and family and stayed overnight at the casino hotel. She played seventeen hours straight. I don’t even know how she stayed on the stool that long. She has a catheter so she may not have even need a potty break. You can order food and drinks right from your machine.
Not all play the one armed bandits. Some hit the tables. They play for bigger stakes. By the way, no local casinos have arms to pull. They have buttons to push. Boring. You get a quite noiseless ticket print out that you cash in. What happened?
I took a trip through the gold country of northern California a few years back and hit Tahoe, Carson City and Reno. Those were noisy machines. They were compulsive. The noise made you think everyone was winning except you. Even the elevator made a Ka-Ching sound when it stopped at each floor. Every noise said, come to me baby – you still have money to give.
Every gambler I know seems to always win – or so they say. I am reminded that the beautiful casinos were not built on government subsidy. They may have been built on welfare, but that is from the poor donating to their survival. I know it’s fun to play, but most may as well just make a donation at the front door and go to the lake instead.
There was a large party from The Home that spent five hours yesterday gambling. No one is discussing what a wonderful day they had. When asked, they won. The information is not forth coming. It must be pried out. That tells me the losses out weighted the wins. It does help if you are a smoker. They all have a no smoking sections, but in our area that is divided by a blue veil of smoke. Makes no difference where you are.
If you are going to go, I recommend the buffet. Good food, reasonable price. At least you can gain weigh thus winning something.
In fairness to the vast majority gambling is just extended entertainment. Many set a limit and stick to it. On return from the outing results are reported only if they won. No one ever has any doubts about how things went at the casino. For most, it is fun and they won’t lose more than they can afford (which isn’t much). Many have a maximum casino donation of $20.00. However there are a few.
One of our residents went with friends and family and stayed overnight at the casino hotel. She played seventeen hours straight. I don’t even know how she stayed on the stool that long. She has a catheter so she may not have even need a potty break. You can order food and drinks right from your machine.
Not all play the one armed bandits. Some hit the tables. They play for bigger stakes. By the way, no local casinos have arms to pull. They have buttons to push. Boring. You get a quite noiseless ticket print out that you cash in. What happened?
I took a trip through the gold country of northern California a few years back and hit Tahoe, Carson City and Reno. Those were noisy machines. They were compulsive. The noise made you think everyone was winning except you. Even the elevator made a Ka-Ching sound when it stopped at each floor. Every noise said, come to me baby – you still have money to give.
Every gambler I know seems to always win – or so they say. I am reminded that the beautiful casinos were not built on government subsidy. They may have been built on welfare, but that is from the poor donating to their survival. I know it’s fun to play, but most may as well just make a donation at the front door and go to the lake instead.
There was a large party from The Home that spent five hours yesterday gambling. No one is discussing what a wonderful day they had. When asked, they won. The information is not forth coming. It must be pried out. That tells me the losses out weighted the wins. It does help if you are a smoker. They all have a no smoking sections, but in our area that is divided by a blue veil of smoke. Makes no difference where you are.
If you are going to go, I recommend the buffet. Good food, reasonable price. At least you can gain weigh thus winning something.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
COME ON IN
The natives are restless. They would be on the warpath if there were a path and had any energy. We got notices today of an annual inspection a week from today. We have these every year. In fact we usually have inspections about four times a year. We had a small one a week ago by one of the investment banks. They usually just sample apartments. In our building I only know of one being entered. There are two others banks with money in the place and they will come at sometime in the future. Since each investor knows of the others, I would appreciate them getting together and all coming at the same time. I guess that’s too much to ask.
Our housing authority will conduct this inspection. They have promised to enter every apartment. Some take that as a threat, but it’s normal. What has ticked us off is the extensive list of items on this year’s checklist. I’ve managed apartments and annual inspections are typical to determine the safety and state of each unit. They normally look for dripping water or leaks (management pays for water), items in front of heaters (apartment designers give no thought to where furniture will be placed), working smoke detectors, and general housekeeping.
Next weeks inspection goes beyond the call of duty with it’s ten points. Some are even funny because we do have items in front of some things. Consider this. Clear the space in front of the heaters. OK, makes sense. One side of each double window must be clear. What? If I did this, I would not have wall space. My living room has only one inside wall and that is the only place my sofa will fit. I could get out of one living room window by knocking over some TV trays and out of the bedroom by knocking over a small bookcase. The question really is: could I get my leg up and over the sill to get out. I don’t know. And what about the people on the second floor? None would jump.
They want us to move any items blocking our exits. Weird request. We have only one door. If items blocked the door we could not get in or out. No one misses the daily mail.
Are all appliances clean? This is explosive. They have never before said they were going inside our refrigerators. Most are worried about an evaluation of their lifestyle. We have a lady who is often drunk. I can only imagine her stash. As for me, it’s near the end of the month. My fridge will be almost empty. This will be an excuse to get rid of the green fuzzy stuff.
They have asked that we mop, vacuum and wipe down our walls. Right. My ceiling is ten feet high. I have no ladder and don’t climb any more. If they want my walls cleaned, bring in the paint crew.
The proof that this is some standard form from who knows where comes in the last request. Clean your front yard, back yard and lawn. Whew1 One I don’t have to worry about.
I’m not worried. I have tried to explain that they will not check all these things. They haven’t scheduled enough time. They want to go home as much as we want them to go home. And we want them to go home.
Our housing authority will conduct this inspection. They have promised to enter every apartment. Some take that as a threat, but it’s normal. What has ticked us off is the extensive list of items on this year’s checklist. I’ve managed apartments and annual inspections are typical to determine the safety and state of each unit. They normally look for dripping water or leaks (management pays for water), items in front of heaters (apartment designers give no thought to where furniture will be placed), working smoke detectors, and general housekeeping.
Next weeks inspection goes beyond the call of duty with it’s ten points. Some are even funny because we do have items in front of some things. Consider this. Clear the space in front of the heaters. OK, makes sense. One side of each double window must be clear. What? If I did this, I would not have wall space. My living room has only one inside wall and that is the only place my sofa will fit. I could get out of one living room window by knocking over some TV trays and out of the bedroom by knocking over a small bookcase. The question really is: could I get my leg up and over the sill to get out. I don’t know. And what about the people on the second floor? None would jump.
They want us to move any items blocking our exits. Weird request. We have only one door. If items blocked the door we could not get in or out. No one misses the daily mail.
Are all appliances clean? This is explosive. They have never before said they were going inside our refrigerators. Most are worried about an evaluation of their lifestyle. We have a lady who is often drunk. I can only imagine her stash. As for me, it’s near the end of the month. My fridge will be almost empty. This will be an excuse to get rid of the green fuzzy stuff.
They have asked that we mop, vacuum and wipe down our walls. Right. My ceiling is ten feet high. I have no ladder and don’t climb any more. If they want my walls cleaned, bring in the paint crew.
The proof that this is some standard form from who knows where comes in the last request. Clean your front yard, back yard and lawn. Whew1 One I don’t have to worry about.
I’m not worried. I have tried to explain that they will not check all these things. They haven’t scheduled enough time. They want to go home as much as we want them to go home. And we want them to go home.
Monday, October 11, 2010
HISTORIC PLACE
Had fun yesterday. That doesn’t always happen. Of course, I had to grit my teeth a few times to actually have fun. I love taking friends around to places they haven’t been.
I took a couple of ladies to Port Townsend – a beautiful historic little place with lots of history. Maria has been making overtures to restore our friendship. I want to encourage that so at the last minute I invited her to come along. I didn’t think she would come as she is addicted to football and usually will not come out of her room during a game. She came.
The day was forecast to be miserable. However, it was very nice along our route. We didn’t hit rain until the return just a few miles from home.
If nothing else, Maria can talk. Non stop is her habit and in that she did not disappoint. It is helpful for my readers to know the Maria knows everything and has been everywhere. We visited the fort where An Officer and Gentleman was filmed and she had been in every building and even one that was not there. Not possible. Some are off limits to the public.She had also hiked all over the grounds. I’m not saying she didn’t do those things, but I have questions.
We drove around to look at the architecture from the late 1800’s and then headed to historic downtown. My kids had been there the weekend before and the grandkids raved about a 50’s recreated soda shoppe. I was thirsty so we stopped. It was like walking back in time. Black and white tile floor, marble counter top, turquoise and black seats and stools – it was perfect. It would have been great had the prices been from the fifties.
I had a strawberry soda and one of the ladies had fried ice cream. Mine took my memory back to the soda shoppe in the corner drugstore four blocks from home. The taste was just as I remember it.
Maria did not follow us to the soda shoppe. She said she wanted to go to the deck on the bay and have a look. One other lady when with her, but came back to join us later. Maria did what she really wanted to do – go shopping. An hour later she had not returned. We had to go looking for her. When we found her she was at the other end of the shopping area leaving the historic district. She was looking for the car – she said.
Unfortunately, my choice to bring Maria did not sit well with one of the women. She was cool about it, but didn’t have the fun she would have had. It was probably too early to have her take a trip with me.
It’s Columbus Day. The least celebrated of our historic days. Of course, Chris did not really discover America. He landed in the Dominican Republic. Then, how can one discover a land that already had millions of people living here? The Indians call this Native American Day. Good idea. There are no Columbus Day decorations up anywhere. I am completely unaware of any celebrations in the area or any planned parties. I do wonder what special food is typically eaten on this holiday. Christmas is ham, Thanksgiving in turkey, Easter is hot cross buns, the Fourth of July is BBQ and Halloween is candy. We need to find a special food for Columbus Day. Maybe since he is from Spain it should be Tapas. Loves those foods.
I took a couple of ladies to Port Townsend – a beautiful historic little place with lots of history. Maria has been making overtures to restore our friendship. I want to encourage that so at the last minute I invited her to come along. I didn’t think she would come as she is addicted to football and usually will not come out of her room during a game. She came.
The day was forecast to be miserable. However, it was very nice along our route. We didn’t hit rain until the return just a few miles from home.
If nothing else, Maria can talk. Non stop is her habit and in that she did not disappoint. It is helpful for my readers to know the Maria knows everything and has been everywhere. We visited the fort where An Officer and Gentleman was filmed and she had been in every building and even one that was not there. Not possible. Some are off limits to the public.She had also hiked all over the grounds. I’m not saying she didn’t do those things, but I have questions.
We drove around to look at the architecture from the late 1800’s and then headed to historic downtown. My kids had been there the weekend before and the grandkids raved about a 50’s recreated soda shoppe. I was thirsty so we stopped. It was like walking back in time. Black and white tile floor, marble counter top, turquoise and black seats and stools – it was perfect. It would have been great had the prices been from the fifties.
I had a strawberry soda and one of the ladies had fried ice cream. Mine took my memory back to the soda shoppe in the corner drugstore four blocks from home. The taste was just as I remember it.
Maria did not follow us to the soda shoppe. She said she wanted to go to the deck on the bay and have a look. One other lady when with her, but came back to join us later. Maria did what she really wanted to do – go shopping. An hour later she had not returned. We had to go looking for her. When we found her she was at the other end of the shopping area leaving the historic district. She was looking for the car – she said.
Unfortunately, my choice to bring Maria did not sit well with one of the women. She was cool about it, but didn’t have the fun she would have had. It was probably too early to have her take a trip with me.
It’s Columbus Day. The least celebrated of our historic days. Of course, Chris did not really discover America. He landed in the Dominican Republic. Then, how can one discover a land that already had millions of people living here? The Indians call this Native American Day. Good idea. There are no Columbus Day decorations up anywhere. I am completely unaware of any celebrations in the area or any planned parties. I do wonder what special food is typically eaten on this holiday. Christmas is ham, Thanksgiving in turkey, Easter is hot cross buns, the Fourth of July is BBQ and Halloween is candy. We need to find a special food for Columbus Day. Maybe since he is from Spain it should be Tapas. Loves those foods.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
A VOCIE FROM THE PAST
Sometimes it’s fun to hear a voice from your past. I don’t really care for the calls that begin “Do you know who this is?” I never know. If they are not someone I speak to on a regular basis how am I going to recognize the voice. I’m not expecting it nor do I have the kind of recall system that instantly picks out sounds from 30-50 years ago. But Thursday night I got exactly the right kind of call. It began, “This is a voice from your past” and immediately reintroduced their self.
I nearly fell out of my recliner. My high school recently held the 50th reunion for my class. I know I only look 30. How do I do it. No picture included. I did not go. The school is half way across the country and my circle of friends was rather small and I reasoned that I would not know anyone. Besides, no money – a real issue.
As it turned out, I would have known someone. A friend that attended looked forward to seeing me. I wish I could have gone. When he said, Bob Washington all kinds of wonderful memories immediately jumped to mind. He was part of a small group who went to sporting games and taunted the other team and their fans. Yes, I joined in. If I recall correctly Dean Thomas was the initiator, but Bob was the protector. Not that he had to do anything. His size was a deterrent to most things. However, I do have a couple of memories of running for my life. Now, I just wish I could run at all.
I seem to remember that we called Bob George at times. Not for any resemblance to our first president, but because of his last name. Because we were so mouthy I wonder how I survived my freshman year. There was a time when three seniors caught me at my open locker with clear intentions to lock me inside. They knocked the books out of my hand and I mouthed off at them and they began pushing. At that exact moment a teacher came around the corner and I quickly asked her where such and such a room was. She said, “Come with me – I’ll show you.” I was very happy to go with her.
I was always sarcastic as a teen (what to you mean, as a teen). The group gave me the courage to be loud and expressive. It was part of coming out of my shy shell. As so often happens when high school ends, we all separated and went our own ways. Bob told me most are still in Omaha. I guess I was the one who ran away. The only reason I left was to leave Omaha and I only did that because a buddy was going to school in Canada and I went with him. It sounded like fun.
Bob told me that Eugene had passed away. Of the group, Gene lived the closest to me and we often wanted home from school together. Dean and Bob were at the reunion. It seems like there were one or two more guys, but I cannot remember today. Bob will remember. I could be dreaming. Many things from those days are bigger in my mind than they really were. Part of aging I guess.
There were many terrifying things about high school for me. I did everything I could to avoid the west parking lot and the occasional black – white fights. I may have had a mouth that would not shut, but I was frightened of any fight. Thank God for Bob.
I nearly fell out of my recliner. My high school recently held the 50th reunion for my class. I know I only look 30. How do I do it. No picture included. I did not go. The school is half way across the country and my circle of friends was rather small and I reasoned that I would not know anyone. Besides, no money – a real issue.
As it turned out, I would have known someone. A friend that attended looked forward to seeing me. I wish I could have gone. When he said, Bob Washington all kinds of wonderful memories immediately jumped to mind. He was part of a small group who went to sporting games and taunted the other team and their fans. Yes, I joined in. If I recall correctly Dean Thomas was the initiator, but Bob was the protector. Not that he had to do anything. His size was a deterrent to most things. However, I do have a couple of memories of running for my life. Now, I just wish I could run at all.
I seem to remember that we called Bob George at times. Not for any resemblance to our first president, but because of his last name. Because we were so mouthy I wonder how I survived my freshman year. There was a time when three seniors caught me at my open locker with clear intentions to lock me inside. They knocked the books out of my hand and I mouthed off at them and they began pushing. At that exact moment a teacher came around the corner and I quickly asked her where such and such a room was. She said, “Come with me – I’ll show you.” I was very happy to go with her.
I was always sarcastic as a teen (what to you mean, as a teen). The group gave me the courage to be loud and expressive. It was part of coming out of my shy shell. As so often happens when high school ends, we all separated and went our own ways. Bob told me most are still in Omaha. I guess I was the one who ran away. The only reason I left was to leave Omaha and I only did that because a buddy was going to school in Canada and I went with him. It sounded like fun.
Bob told me that Eugene had passed away. Of the group, Gene lived the closest to me and we often wanted home from school together. Dean and Bob were at the reunion. It seems like there were one or two more guys, but I cannot remember today. Bob will remember. I could be dreaming. Many things from those days are bigger in my mind than they really were. Part of aging I guess.
There were many terrifying things about high school for me. I did everything I could to avoid the west parking lot and the occasional black – white fights. I may have had a mouth that would not shut, but I was frightened of any fight. Thank God for Bob.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
GOOD MOVIE
I have never tried to make a secret that I like movies. I like heart warming warm puppy type movies, based on fact (current or historical), and action. The bigger the explosion the more I seem to like it. I want to there to also be a story. That’s why one of my all time favorites stars Harrison Ford as the “Fugitive”. Good story and terrific train wreck. The jump down the wall of the damn from the tunnel was very good as well.
I went to see “The Town” is afternoon. Usually a group of us go, but there were only two today. It stars Ben Affleck, is directed by Ben Affleck and partially written by Ben Affleck. To many did not care for Ben Affleck. Too bad! They missed out. He is showing his chops as a very good director and his acting is also improving.
I’m sure it was filmed in Boston. If not there, some other eastern town with very narrow streets. If swearing repulses you, you will not like this movie. But it had one of the greatest car chase scenes I have ever seen. It was edge of your seat exciting. I turned left when the cars went left. I leaned right when the cars went right. I can only guess the number of cars smashed beyond recognition. Maybe a 1000! Ok, that’s too many, but not by much. Half the budget had to be for vehicles. They were racing down very narrow streets with cars parked on both sides cars crashing at the turns, others rear-ending cars or being rear-ended. Unfortunately, I tend to laugh at these scenes as I do at explosions. It seems impossible that the lead car can have that many cuts and bruises and keep on running. They must be made by Timex! There were some explosions, but not over the top ones that make you wonder how anyone walked away alive let along unhurt.
I will most likely see “Hereafter” next week. I like both Matt Damon and director Clint Eastwood. I’m not that interested in the topic – can we talk to the dead, but the central character, Matt Damon, considers his gift to see the future a curse, rather than a blessing.
I do believe God gifts people beyond their abilities. I am thankful for the gifts I had. I believe I was gifted when I was teaching. I considered it a blessing. I have never enjoyed speaking in front of groups. When I had to take speech in high school, I was physically ill every time I was to speak. I never did speak in class. I only passed because of the written part.
I eased into teaching gradually with very small groups. I learned quickly that it was the teacher’s responsibility to capture the attention of the class. I had to speak in some college classes, but was never very good. I preferred smaller group interaction. When I began working in my first church I knew the time would come when I might have to address the congregation of about 700. I was a nervous wreck when the day arrived. When I rose to approach the pulpit, I followed my senior pastors lead. When I got to where I could hang on and hide my wobbly knees, I said, Let us pray. As the congregation bowed their heads, I reached under the pulpit to get a glass of water. As I pulled it up to get a sip and wet my extremely dry throat, my hand began to shake uncontrollably. I grabbed it with both ands and got my drink. Meanwhile, back in the foyer that was separated from the pews by glass. The ushers saw what I was doing and began to roll on the floor (we were not Pentecostal).
I went to see “The Town” is afternoon. Usually a group of us go, but there were only two today. It stars Ben Affleck, is directed by Ben Affleck and partially written by Ben Affleck. To many did not care for Ben Affleck. Too bad! They missed out. He is showing his chops as a very good director and his acting is also improving.
I’m sure it was filmed in Boston. If not there, some other eastern town with very narrow streets. If swearing repulses you, you will not like this movie. But it had one of the greatest car chase scenes I have ever seen. It was edge of your seat exciting. I turned left when the cars went left. I leaned right when the cars went right. I can only guess the number of cars smashed beyond recognition. Maybe a 1000! Ok, that’s too many, but not by much. Half the budget had to be for vehicles. They were racing down very narrow streets with cars parked on both sides cars crashing at the turns, others rear-ending cars or being rear-ended. Unfortunately, I tend to laugh at these scenes as I do at explosions. It seems impossible that the lead car can have that many cuts and bruises and keep on running. They must be made by Timex! There were some explosions, but not over the top ones that make you wonder how anyone walked away alive let along unhurt.
I will most likely see “Hereafter” next week. I like both Matt Damon and director Clint Eastwood. I’m not that interested in the topic – can we talk to the dead, but the central character, Matt Damon, considers his gift to see the future a curse, rather than a blessing.
I do believe God gifts people beyond their abilities. I am thankful for the gifts I had. I believe I was gifted when I was teaching. I considered it a blessing. I have never enjoyed speaking in front of groups. When I had to take speech in high school, I was physically ill every time I was to speak. I never did speak in class. I only passed because of the written part.
I eased into teaching gradually with very small groups. I learned quickly that it was the teacher’s responsibility to capture the attention of the class. I had to speak in some college classes, but was never very good. I preferred smaller group interaction. When I began working in my first church I knew the time would come when I might have to address the congregation of about 700. I was a nervous wreck when the day arrived. When I rose to approach the pulpit, I followed my senior pastors lead. When I got to where I could hang on and hide my wobbly knees, I said, Let us pray. As the congregation bowed their heads, I reached under the pulpit to get a glass of water. As I pulled it up to get a sip and wet my extremely dry throat, my hand began to shake uncontrollably. I grabbed it with both ands and got my drink. Meanwhile, back in the foyer that was separated from the pews by glass. The ushers saw what I was doing and began to roll on the floor (we were not Pentecostal).
Monday, October 4, 2010
IS CHANGE IN THE AIR?
There was a break through today. I wasn’t expecting this, but it was a crack in the door. I went to the upstairs lounge to tell the domino players that I have arranged for a travel agent to come and meet with a group to talk about the cruise to Alaska that some want to take in September of 2011. I don’t have a specific date yet, for this meeting but will get that tomorrow. It will take a year for most to get the money together,
There were four playing dominos that would like to make the trip. They were happy to know something was about to happen.
Maria was there, but she hates the cold and is animate about not making the trip. If they get the ten they want she will feel left out. I expect a change of attitude.
After delivering my news, I went to work on the puzzle for a while. There is too much green and too much brown. It’s a challenge, but I made some progress today. While I was working away I over heard Maria tell Kiki to see is I wanted the one remaining cookie. Of course I wanted the cookie. I thanked them.
Gail came over after everyone had left and asked if I heard what Maria had said. I had. We were both surprised. She may be softening a bit.
I plan to go see “The Town” tomorrow (it’s senior discount day – still expensive but the best price I can get in the area for a movie). I will call her tomorrow to see if she wants to go. She will not likely answer the phone when she sees it’s me, but I will tell her about ir and what time I plan to leave. Then I’ll see if she comes. It would be a major step if she did. I would welcome her to come along.
Back to the cruise: I swear I am about the only one here that has the slightest idea how to plan and organize anything. I took this cruise about three years ago so agreed to help. I won’t be able to make the trip. The price will be too steep for my blood. But I enjoy helping them. It will be fun for them as they plan for next year. Besides, there may then be a group who may want to look at the notebook of photos I put together. I love seeing people willing to work together to make something happen.
Chas would love to go. He has many concerns because he is wheelchair bound. He thinks he has a couple of people who would go with him to help. If he got stuck, I would try to make the trip just so he doesn’t miss out. He gets to go so few places. His biggest worry is getting on and off the ship. He weights about 450 pounds and if he tips over in his motorized wheelchair, he is very hard to set upright. It takes a crew. If the gangplank is at too great an angle, the chair may not make it up to the ship. He needs to know how they will get him or and off. Low tide would be a problem.
The Alaska Inland Passage cruise is spectacular. It also gave me the opportunity to the Yukon. I have had the privilege of being in nine providences and now the Yukon. Only missed Prince Edward Island. Shucks.
There were four playing dominos that would like to make the trip. They were happy to know something was about to happen.
Maria was there, but she hates the cold and is animate about not making the trip. If they get the ten they want she will feel left out. I expect a change of attitude.
After delivering my news, I went to work on the puzzle for a while. There is too much green and too much brown. It’s a challenge, but I made some progress today. While I was working away I over heard Maria tell Kiki to see is I wanted the one remaining cookie. Of course I wanted the cookie. I thanked them.
Gail came over after everyone had left and asked if I heard what Maria had said. I had. We were both surprised. She may be softening a bit.
I plan to go see “The Town” tomorrow (it’s senior discount day – still expensive but the best price I can get in the area for a movie). I will call her tomorrow to see if she wants to go. She will not likely answer the phone when she sees it’s me, but I will tell her about ir and what time I plan to leave. Then I’ll see if she comes. It would be a major step if she did. I would welcome her to come along.
Back to the cruise: I swear I am about the only one here that has the slightest idea how to plan and organize anything. I took this cruise about three years ago so agreed to help. I won’t be able to make the trip. The price will be too steep for my blood. But I enjoy helping them. It will be fun for them as they plan for next year. Besides, there may then be a group who may want to look at the notebook of photos I put together. I love seeing people willing to work together to make something happen.
Chas would love to go. He has many concerns because he is wheelchair bound. He thinks he has a couple of people who would go with him to help. If he got stuck, I would try to make the trip just so he doesn’t miss out. He gets to go so few places. His biggest worry is getting on and off the ship. He weights about 450 pounds and if he tips over in his motorized wheelchair, he is very hard to set upright. It takes a crew. If the gangplank is at too great an angle, the chair may not make it up to the ship. He needs to know how they will get him or and off. Low tide would be a problem.
The Alaska Inland Passage cruise is spectacular. It also gave me the opportunity to the Yukon. I have had the privilege of being in nine providences and now the Yukon. Only missed Prince Edward Island. Shucks.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
STACKS
I really wish I did not let things pile up, but to do that I would have to change decades of orderliness neglect. My messes define me. Like they say on “Hoarders” I’m not a hoarder, I’m a collector. I’m not really a hoarder. You can see my floors. The real issue is the top of things. One might have to send out a search party to find the top of my desk, or the tabletop next to my lounger, or the top of my dresser or nightstand.
The most annoying is my kitchen counter tops. In all fairness to me, there is very little counter to cover. There is about 3.5’-4’ of useable space. That space is shared with a coffee pot; spice rack and dish drain board. I prepare food in the L shaped corner. There is very little space to stand, but a wider space than anywhere else for preparation. When the space speaks to me it says go out to eat. When the pocket book speaks is says aren’t you tired of Burger King. Yes – that’s why I’ve switched to Subway. I get two meals out of their foot longs.
My floors often beckon to be washed or vacuumed. They need to be louder. They are easy to neglect. Counter space is more urgent. I even use the top of my printer.
Counter tops get cleaned when I cannot find something I know is one of the stacks. I had a cleaning lady back in my wealthy days that would move my stacks. I didn’t mind them being straightened, but when they are moved, I can’t find anything. You stackers know what I’m talking about. What makes this place look worse than any other place I lived is how little file stacking space I have. I’m still adjusting.
I lost something that I really needed so two of my four spaces are now clean. I think I’ll take a picture.
The most annoying is my kitchen counter tops. In all fairness to me, there is very little counter to cover. There is about 3.5’-4’ of useable space. That space is shared with a coffee pot; spice rack and dish drain board. I prepare food in the L shaped corner. There is very little space to stand, but a wider space than anywhere else for preparation. When the space speaks to me it says go out to eat. When the pocket book speaks is says aren’t you tired of Burger King. Yes – that’s why I’ve switched to Subway. I get two meals out of their foot longs.
My floors often beckon to be washed or vacuumed. They need to be louder. They are easy to neglect. Counter space is more urgent. I even use the top of my printer.
Counter tops get cleaned when I cannot find something I know is one of the stacks. I had a cleaning lady back in my wealthy days that would move my stacks. I didn’t mind them being straightened, but when they are moved, I can’t find anything. You stackers know what I’m talking about. What makes this place look worse than any other place I lived is how little file stacking space I have. I’m still adjusting.
I lost something that I really needed so two of my four spaces are now clean. I think I’ll take a picture.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
NOT AGAIN?
It is hard to believe the ridiculous things we do. Not the stupid things we do on purpose, but the accidents, the unintended, the mistakes; the wrong choices. We all do it. But at times I think I do it more than most.
In the past, I have purchased a cup of coffee at a local coffee hut and set it between my legs. You can guess what happened. I decided not to sue. It was a latte and not as hot as straight coffee but I did jump and gasp. When I got back home I tried to sneak in praying that no one would see me. It looked wrong.
I had never broken a bone until 1997. That year I broke three toes one at a time and all on the same foot. One really hurt when I rolled it under my foot walking to my hot tub to shut off the motor for the night. That was the worst.
On a simpler level I have tripped over a normal rug. Felt like my foot stuck to the floor. I have raised my head into an open door that I left open. Yes, it hurts. I have left the water running in my kitchen sink, gone and had a shower, got pout and wondered who had their water running. I told that story. Yes, it was a huge mess.
But I never have done before what I did today. I fell asleep. Not that unusual, I know. I seem to be doing it all the time these days. No matter when I go to sleep I wake about 7:30 a.m. Not bad if I get to bed early. I did that last night. Was in bed by 10:15 and did not wake until 8:30. That’s enough sleep in my book. I had breakfast, wandered outside to see how the yard sale was doing (a few people had one going), sat on the porch and talked to Chas for awhile before returning to my apartment and getting my second cup of coffee. I turned on the TV to see what was on and settled on a pre football game show and began to drink my coffee. The last time I noticed the clock it was 15 after the hour. I don’t remember which hour. The next time I notices the clock was 30 minutes later when the still hot coffee that I had been holding on my upper chest tipped toward my neck and flowed down into my shirt.
This all happened simultaneously: coffee spilled, I jumped up and screamed, I saw the clock, ran to the bathroom to wipe the liquid off and put some pain cream on my now blotchy red neck. As I was returning to my chair I wondered how on earth I kept that coffee cup up somewhat straight for 30 minutes. I understand why it tipped over, but how did it stay up so long?
Of course, this event was not the end of the world, just another example of on going carelessness.
By the way, the yard sale was a bust. Very few potential buyers! The weather was remarkably nice, but the yard sales season is basically over in our part of the world. Now it is time to go to each of my three grandkids soccer games every Saturday. Yea!
In the past, I have purchased a cup of coffee at a local coffee hut and set it between my legs. You can guess what happened. I decided not to sue. It was a latte and not as hot as straight coffee but I did jump and gasp. When I got back home I tried to sneak in praying that no one would see me. It looked wrong.
I had never broken a bone until 1997. That year I broke three toes one at a time and all on the same foot. One really hurt when I rolled it under my foot walking to my hot tub to shut off the motor for the night. That was the worst.
On a simpler level I have tripped over a normal rug. Felt like my foot stuck to the floor. I have raised my head into an open door that I left open. Yes, it hurts. I have left the water running in my kitchen sink, gone and had a shower, got pout and wondered who had their water running. I told that story. Yes, it was a huge mess.
But I never have done before what I did today. I fell asleep. Not that unusual, I know. I seem to be doing it all the time these days. No matter when I go to sleep I wake about 7:30 a.m. Not bad if I get to bed early. I did that last night. Was in bed by 10:15 and did not wake until 8:30. That’s enough sleep in my book. I had breakfast, wandered outside to see how the yard sale was doing (a few people had one going), sat on the porch and talked to Chas for awhile before returning to my apartment and getting my second cup of coffee. I turned on the TV to see what was on and settled on a pre football game show and began to drink my coffee. The last time I noticed the clock it was 15 after the hour. I don’t remember which hour. The next time I notices the clock was 30 minutes later when the still hot coffee that I had been holding on my upper chest tipped toward my neck and flowed down into my shirt.
This all happened simultaneously: coffee spilled, I jumped up and screamed, I saw the clock, ran to the bathroom to wipe the liquid off and put some pain cream on my now blotchy red neck. As I was returning to my chair I wondered how on earth I kept that coffee cup up somewhat straight for 30 minutes. I understand why it tipped over, but how did it stay up so long?
Of course, this event was not the end of the world, just another example of on going carelessness.
By the way, the yard sale was a bust. Very few potential buyers! The weather was remarkably nice, but the yard sales season is basically over in our part of the world. Now it is time to go to each of my three grandkids soccer games every Saturday. Yea!
Friday, October 1, 2010
I DON'T SEE YOU
It’s been two weeks. They were pleasant weeks for me. I have no idea how it was for Maria. All I know is what I observe or don’t observe. I told her I wanted a couple weeks of space. That ended yesterday.
I saw her only twice. She reserved for me her harshest response. Treating me like I do not exist or she cannot see me. Both incidents occurred in the commons room. The first incident caught her off guard. I have been in the room having coffee and we got into some interesting conversation so I was there longer than usual. She returned from shopping with someone who had a car. Not expecting to see me she started around the corner, looked up, saw me sitting there and immediately turned around and walked out of my site. I assumed she had not plans to be in the same room with me. The action gave me pause. I have dropped to her “I absolutely hate you list.” It was confirmed a few days later at a meeting to explain how the new automatic doors worked. She was sitting with a friend facing the back wall. When I arrived, I took a seat at the next able and faced the direction of the speaker. That meant I also faced Maria. She got up, moved around her table and put a post between her and I. She was subtle.
I assumed if the gap were ever to be bridged, I would have to begin the building process. I am not sure a bridge can be built. There are two others here in her bad books and she will not be in the same room or in their line of site. If she can’t get out of their view she turns her chair away or puts her hand up to block the view. Reminds me of the actions of little kids. She is very obvious with these women. So far, she has said nothing about our little conflict. She has not been absent enough for people to be aware of any conflict with us. She covered herself by telling people she was going to take a break from coffee. She stopped coming to two things: coffee and BBQ’s. The BBQ’s ended for the season last night. She is free of that and only missed two.
Maria is a very social person. She must be involved in everything. Monthly we go out as a group to eat. There are shopping trips, potluck dinners, etc. She has never missed an event. Halloween is her favorite holiday. It will kill her not to get dressed up.
I wrote a note to express my desires to reconcile, put it into my pocket and went to talk to her personally. The note was a backup. She was home and called for me to come it. It was obvious that she did not expect me to have been at the door. I asked if I could talk to her and she said NO. I sat down at the table to talk. I told her how much I missed seeing her and would like to return to some common activities. She blamed me and accused me of intentionally leaving her behind. She acknowledged no fault and blamed me for everything. She reminded me that I did not want to see her. I did not say that, I said I wanted some space for a couple of weeks. That time is finished.
I did my best to remain calm and inviting. I told her I was going to a movie on Tuesday and would invite her to come along. She remained angry that I had come. She clearly will not forgive or accept her part. I reminded her that I was going to be kind and accepting of her regardless of her response to me. I got up, gave her my written note and left. Only time will tell if she will welcome me into her life. If I am to be banned, it will sure ruin some of my stories.
I saw her only twice. She reserved for me her harshest response. Treating me like I do not exist or she cannot see me. Both incidents occurred in the commons room. The first incident caught her off guard. I have been in the room having coffee and we got into some interesting conversation so I was there longer than usual. She returned from shopping with someone who had a car. Not expecting to see me she started around the corner, looked up, saw me sitting there and immediately turned around and walked out of my site. I assumed she had not plans to be in the same room with me. The action gave me pause. I have dropped to her “I absolutely hate you list.” It was confirmed a few days later at a meeting to explain how the new automatic doors worked. She was sitting with a friend facing the back wall. When I arrived, I took a seat at the next able and faced the direction of the speaker. That meant I also faced Maria. She got up, moved around her table and put a post between her and I. She was subtle.
I assumed if the gap were ever to be bridged, I would have to begin the building process. I am not sure a bridge can be built. There are two others here in her bad books and she will not be in the same room or in their line of site. If she can’t get out of their view she turns her chair away or puts her hand up to block the view. Reminds me of the actions of little kids. She is very obvious with these women. So far, she has said nothing about our little conflict. She has not been absent enough for people to be aware of any conflict with us. She covered herself by telling people she was going to take a break from coffee. She stopped coming to two things: coffee and BBQ’s. The BBQ’s ended for the season last night. She is free of that and only missed two.
Maria is a very social person. She must be involved in everything. Monthly we go out as a group to eat. There are shopping trips, potluck dinners, etc. She has never missed an event. Halloween is her favorite holiday. It will kill her not to get dressed up.
I wrote a note to express my desires to reconcile, put it into my pocket and went to talk to her personally. The note was a backup. She was home and called for me to come it. It was obvious that she did not expect me to have been at the door. I asked if I could talk to her and she said NO. I sat down at the table to talk. I told her how much I missed seeing her and would like to return to some common activities. She blamed me and accused me of intentionally leaving her behind. She acknowledged no fault and blamed me for everything. She reminded me that I did not want to see her. I did not say that, I said I wanted some space for a couple of weeks. That time is finished.
I did my best to remain calm and inviting. I told her I was going to a movie on Tuesday and would invite her to come along. She remained angry that I had come. She clearly will not forgive or accept her part. I reminded her that I was going to be kind and accepting of her regardless of her response to me. I got up, gave her my written note and left. Only time will tell if she will welcome me into her life. If I am to be banned, it will sure ruin some of my stories.
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