tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7853114723712821392024-03-15T21:10:01.943-04:00No More Travels!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger3242125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-17777526562155551772023-08-02T20:50:00.001-04:002023-08-02T23:54:35.125-04:00Are Any Old Friends Out There?<p>I haven't blogged in a long while, so probably no one who remembers me is still around. I tried, back in 1997, to backpack the entire Appalachian Trail, but only was able to complete about 900 of the 2200 or so miles of it. I don't feel the least bit guilty of not being able to hike any longer - I retired at age 55 and began the trail a few months later. I loved it (most of the time), but wasn't embarased to say "I'm finished".</p><p>I lived in Virginia back then, and have since moved to Sacramento, CA. I enjoy living here, for the most part, although since I've outlived many of my peers, I really don't fit in anywhere.</p><p>I'd love to hear from any former hikers/backpackers out there, and how you've managed to return to society. I don't think I have ever really fit in with most of society since I left the trail. And no, I don't have any desire to hike or backpack in California, even though I'm not far from the Pacific Crest Trail. I have had a good life in California since I moved here many years ago, but I will always be a "daughter of Appalachia". (I also spent a couple of years living in Ireland, which I really enjoyed at the time. But I'm so happy to be back in the U.S.)</p><p>Three of my four children live in CA, and one settled in New York. I belong to a different generation and era, and I sure miss my old friends. If any of you are still out there, or have enjoyed backpacking, please drop me a line.</p><p>Gypsy97 (Marty)<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-41502491223738095372023-02-20T15:58:00.003-05:002023-02-20T16:02:58.985-05:00Weather Changes Coming Up!<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Our weather has been really pleasant for a while and I thought spring was just around the corner. But the predictions now are for rain and a drop in temperatures later on in the week. I should get out with Rocky while the sun in still shining.</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>I used to enjoy walking Rocky because I met a lot of my friendly neighbors then. I don't meet many neighbors in this neighborhood, and I 'd say they are "mildly friendly". Some don't even respond to a wave and a "hello"! It's just plain not my type of neighborhood, so what else can I say. I've been thinking of trying to move back to the city, but not sure where or how to start looking for a place. I have been so self-sufficient all my life and it's a bitter pill to take losing all my independence and have to ask someone to drive me where I need to go. This place is really "out in the boonies"! Suggestions welcome, but not many opportunities for an 82 yr old female. By the way, "age 82" looks way worse when I put it in print! :-) I certainly don't think or feel that old!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>So I just came back from a nice walk, where we met a couple who were walking two beautiful dachshund puppies! They were so cute and friendly, and not afraid of Rocky at all. Rocky is so laid back that no one should be afraid of him, except someone who is up to no good. He has always been very perceptive and a good judge of character.</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>I think I will now spend a bit of time looking at ads for apartment rentals back in civilization!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>I also want to send condolences to Judilyn. <br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> </b></span> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-66571385171070928962023-01-21T15:23:00.000-05:002023-01-21T15:23:29.292-05:00Time Marches On ---<p>--- <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">and I'm keeping up with it, if just barely. I regret that I sold my mobile home. At least I met people when I walked Rocky, and most were friendly so I had a lot more human contact. <br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Ever since I've moved away from the mobile home I keep watch online for what is on sale and details of the homes. A few months ago there was a house for sale by owner </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">with a relatively low asking price</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">, that I had been following for several months. After sitting on the market for a while, it was advertised by a real estate agent at a much higher asking price. It sold in less than a week (for the higher price!). I could have kicked myself for letting it go. I could have paid cash for the house! The monthly cost of site rentals has gone way up, but I still could have comfortably afforded it. There's an old saying: "He who hesitates, is lost!", and I sure lost out on a good thing.<br /></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-42926737057658911982023-01-03T01:33:00.001-05:002023-01-03T01:33:43.417-05:00Happy New Year 2023!<p> I can't wrap my mind around the fact that it's 2023! Life is slipping by.</p><p>I haven't written an update, because my life certainly hasn't been anything to write about this past year.</p><p>I'm living with my daughter and her family about 30 miles outside of Sacramento. They bought a house that has a very nice "in-law suite" consisting of a living-dining-kitchen area in one large space, a decent sized bedroom and full bath. I also have a stacked washer/dryer and a full sized garage (no car, however). There isn't much of a front yard or porch - people don't sit out on their front porches and talk to folks who go by. There is, however, a nice patio off my bedroom and a huge back yard for Rocky and Tito (Jeannie's dog). To tell the truth, I would like to run away!<br /></p><p>It's very nice and I appreciate it, although I would rather be around folks my own age, or at least more friendy folks. I think my age is off-putting to younger people (and younger, to me, is anyone under 70). I totally appreciate that my daughter wanted to find a place where I would be comfortable, and I am comfortable in my spacious apartment, but I have no friends or even acquaintances. When the weather is good, I walk Rocky twice a day on a path through some nearby woods. There are a few people I encounter on these walks, but I'm lucky if I get a response to my "hello".</p><p> Right now the weather is not good for walking, so I spend my days alone for the most part. It's a dilemma for me whether I should try to find senior housing, but I would only go into that if I could take Rocky.</p><p>I haven't written a post for some time now, and don't know if anyone ever looks to see if I've posted a new blog entry.</p><p>So much for my update. I hope you all are doing well, and that I can get back to reading blog posts again and keeping up with everyone.</p><p>Best wishes for the coming year! <br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-23293560389285281112022-08-11T13:43:00.001-04:002022-08-11T13:43:41.003-04:00Responses to my post yesterday (A Quick Hello)<p>I am sorry for all my complaints in yesterday's post. When I read about a working person having to live in his car because he couldn't afford housing, I was ashamed of myself for whining about my situation. I have a very nice and comfortable apartment, connected to my daughter's home but completely separate, and I sleep pretty comfortably every night. I have no right to b*tch about my situation when so many others in the U.S. are living in desperate conditions.</p><p><span>I recall the stories my dad told about living through the Great Depression, and I guess our lives could get much worse. They are worse for people who are deprived of the basics. A couple of years ago, I gave my backpacking tent and other camping items to a homeless person, and I often wonder what became of him.</span></p><p><span>"There, but for the grace of God, go I." I think that is such a humbling and impactful saying!<br /></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-90566113856108564422022-08-11T01:21:00.001-04:002022-08-11T01:21:38.498-04:00A Quick "Hello"<p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm getting ready for bed, but thought I'd write a quick note to say "Hello" to everyone. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm kind of tired of where I live - don't know anyone and don't really meet anyone. I walk Rocky twice a day on a short path through some woods, and the people I meet are friendly enough as passers-by, but I miss having friends that I can talk to. I'd love to move back to my last neighborhood and the friends I made there, but it probably won't happen. I thought my current neighborhood would be much more friendly, as there are a number of "next gen" homes - homes for families with an apartment for older (or younger) family members. But I have as yet to meet another older person, and many of the people are definitely not interested in taking to an elder. If they don't want to talk to me, then I don't want to talk to them, but I need to find a place where I fit in. It's a helluva note - and I don't have an answer. I know Jeannie meant the best for me when she got this particular house, and my quarters are definitely perfect for me, but the situation grows worse by the week. I'm approaching 82 so I guess I need to put up with it for a bit longer and then it won't matter!</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The one thing I miss is a complete kitchen. I have a stab at a kitchenette at one end of the room - it consists of a fridge, sink, and microwave. (And of course, cabinetry). Donald told me that the unit would be taxed differently if there was a complete kitchen, so I can understand why it is like it is, but I miss a stovetop - never did "cook" in a microwave. It might have a "convection oven", but I have no idea how to use it, so to me it's just a microwave oven to heat something up in. I got to the point where I didn't cook much, but I did like the option of a stovetop and oven.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Enough of complaining- I have what I need (except friends). And Rocky instinctively knows there is tension between Jeannie and me, and he is placing his bets on Jeannie, so I've lost my last friend. I keep asking myself, "How in the hell did I get here?" </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">To make it worse, I've always been a "city girl", but now I'm far enough removed from the city that I can't walk to anything. Since I don't drive any more, I can't look for something closer in and more convenient for me.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Suggestions? Or may be condolences!<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-81930095143438685332022-08-10T19:01:00.001-04:002022-08-10T19:05:13.158-04:00Hotel California!<p> <b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am "living it up at the Hotel California" today. In fact, if I don't quit having so much fun, who knows what trouble I might get into! I can "check out any time I like, but I just can't ever leave". (Thanks for the suggestion, Cactus Flower!)</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It has been too hot lately to even go out on my covered patio, but one of the best things about Sacramento weather is that no matter how hot the days are, it gets cool in the evening and the cool hangs on until mid-morning at least! I just closed my windows at 3pm and clicked on the a/c!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Kathy mentioned that there are little boots for dogs to protect their paws. I bought some of these years ago for Smoky, my first black lab and dog who accompanied me on my Appalachian Trail hike. We began the hike in early March and the weather was often cold and icy. His reaction to the boots was absolutely priceless: he would take a step and shake one of his paws trying to get rid of the bootie. Then another step and shake of a paw. It went on for a few steps and I took them off when I could finally quit laughing. I came to the conclusion that God would have to protect his paws because booties were not the answer! (He survived like the champ he was!). I walk Rocky on a short trail that runs through the woods, and I steer him back and forth to whatever side has any shade at all.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I'll be happy when the days begin to cool down, although that might be another month, at least. <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-76806701440068162432022-07-22T16:25:00.000-04:002022-07-22T16:25:56.643-04:00The long, hot summer!<p>The long, hot summer has begun in earnest, and I can just say "Thank God for air conditioning". I really feel sorry for those who don't have it. At least in this part of California the nights are cool, and the coolness lasts into the middle of the morning. I'm trying to take Rocky for his morning walk a bit earlier than usual because I worry about his paws on the hot sidewalks and pavement.</p><p>Speaking of Rocky, he had a grooming session yesterday and looks absolutely gorgeous! He usually comes back from grooming smelling so good, but evidently they didn't use any nice-smelling stuff on him yesterday. I'm going to ask for it the next time.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-63642031750943182962022-07-21T23:42:00.001-04:002022-07-21T23:42:26.342-04:00I need a change!<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think I need something in my life that will give me a reason for going on. What I have is so boring and predictable, as well as lonely. I might be better off in a senior living community, and I have given it some thought. My daughter went to great lengths to find a builder of new homes that included a senior living apartment that is totally independent from the main section. I have every appliance except a dishwasher, and you will never know how wonderful a dishwasher is until you don't have one! I miss it terribly, as a single person doesn't accrue many dirty dishes each day, I don't like leaving them stack up in the sink. </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I walk my dog every day but rarely meet other people on the walk, and those I do see don't say much more than "hello" or just wave as I go by. It is me, because when I'm outside with my daughter she has people clamoring around her to talk. I don't get so much as a wave or a smile. Can someone tell me if it might be my age, or if it could be another reason. I try to smile at everyone I meet, so I hope I look friendly.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> I know my daughter searched for a home that would accommodate me in a private and completely equipped apartment, but I might have been better where I was and on my own. I hope I don't sound ungrateful, but I feel like I'm facing a slow death here. Another problem, or maybe it's just an inconvenience to me, is the fact that no commercial establishment is within walking distance. I wish I could walk to a store, a deli, or any kind of place where I would have a destination and would interact with others.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I know there is no answer for me, so I just have to suck it up and try to keep the peace.<br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-48567000014328509862022-06-22T15:44:00.003-04:002022-06-22T15:44:56.888-04:00Snake Plants and Snakes!<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am looking at a large flowerpot that contains a beautiful snake plant. I've had it for several years and need to repot it soon. There are quite a few smaller leaves that would love extra room so they could grow and bring up their own little shoots. It is such a hardy plant and thrives no matter what you do, or what you don't do, to it.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As for snakes, I can't help but worry about meeting one when I walk Rocky twice a day. We usually take a road that runs through some woods (not dense woods, though) to another building site where more new homes are springing up. I hope they leave the woods alone, and I think there are some trees that are on the "protected list" in these woods. A determined builder could probably find a way around any kind of building codes, but I hope they don't try it in this case. </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am tired of living here, and while my personal space is awesome, I'm totally separated from everything and everyone. I can't even see the street from the windows on my side of the house. As with all California houses, they are separated from the neighboring properties by a tall wooden fence. <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Today started out hot, and will probably end up hanging around the 100 degree mark. If it's this hot in June, I hate to think of what July and August will be!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Jeannie and I went to a store yesterday evening called 'Total Wine". I was in "wine heaven", and have never seen such a collection of every type of wine, in every price range. One of the store employees must have noticed the bottles already in my cart and brought me a coupon for 20% off my total order. This was a good move on his part because I bought even more than I intended. I even bought myself a bottle of Johnny Walker scotch, as it was actually lower than Costco's price! So the long, lonely evenings won't be so bad as I will have my friends, Johnny W. and Mr. Moscato to keep me company for a while! </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">While it may sound like a lot, I can assure you that I have always adhered to the rule that I stop drinking whatever it is BEFORE I start to feel the effects! That seems to work for me.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I didn't intend to get so "wordy" so I will quit now and wish you all a great day/evening, wherever you are. </span></span></b> </p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-25197529157545425262022-06-20T16:55:00.001-04:002022-06-20T16:55:41.541-04:00Is Everything Shrinking?<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It seems to me that nearly everything except my waistline is shrinking! </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> I have two loaves of bread on my table - one is Sun-Maid raisin bread. It is so much smaller than I remember it being, so then I checked the white bread - a loaf of Artesano bread - and that, too, is much smaller than it was a short time ago. Both loaves are smaller in width as well as height - I can't recall what I paid for either of them, but I'm almost certain they haven't gone down in price to match the new size!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> Has anyone noticed other items that you've purchased lately that seem to be less than what they recently were? I think this is a bad sign for what we can expect from now on, and all across the board of the goods and services we rely on.</span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-15702733954163446952022-06-18T23:09:00.001-04:002022-06-18T23:09:16.708-04:00Just a Quickie!<p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I don't have much to say because I don't do much to talk about! I'm hanging in there.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think I might be going to Costco tomorrow, and if I do get out I might try to stop at a place to buy a cheap instant camera. I don't think Costco has a camera department any more, but a Target or Walgreens will do.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">After some hot summer weather, this past week has been cool. In fact, I'm wearing a flannel shirt over my short sleeved t-shirt. I love to sit out on my patio, but it is too chilly for me this evening - I'm sure the temps will warm up in a day or so. The weather would suit me fine if it was like this year-around!</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I hope I have more to write about in the coming days, but maybe I'm lucky things are so bland. They could be worse! </span></span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-21082619990516153662022-06-18T22:36:00.002-04:002022-06-18T22:36:39.879-04:00I Need a Camera!<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I need a new camera so I can take some photos of my new place. I've been wanting to do that since I've been living here. I haven't used a camera in so long I think I have forgotten a lot about them, and wonder if I should just buy a disposable camera and throw it away after taking a roll of pictures. I have a perfectly good camera but haven't used it in so long I'm not sure I want to even try.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My place is really nice and spacious. I should have no complaint at all, but I'm so darned isolated from other people it's really making me depressed. If I complain, I sound ungrateful. I've looked online at several senior housing units in my old neighborhood, but don't know if I should take that step. It could be great, or it could be a disaster.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My dog knows there is conflict in the air, and he doesn't side with me - that's for sure. I'm abandoned on all sides. <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-23847979784149741352022-06-03T18:50:00.000-04:002022-06-03T18:50:28.784-04:00New Neighborhoods<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">They can be nice when you are younger, but for a person in her 80's I can't say much for our new neighborhood. In fact, I hate it!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I walk Rocky twice a day and don't see very many people, but I speak and wave to everyone I meet. The only responses I get are usually from workmen in the area. I'm just sick and tired of even trying.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I walked with Jeannie yesterday and everyone speaks to her - and she speaks to everyone. The only difference between us is our age. I always try to smile when I greet someone and I think it makes my voice different - more friendly. But a helluva lot of difference it makes in my case. I'm really tired of trying, hurt from the constant rejection, and angry because I have to tolerate this type of treatment from neighbors and strangers in the neighborhood. When I was with Jeannie and greeted people, not one looked me straight in the eye, or responded in any way. Their attention was all on being friendly with Jeannie. </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Anyone who still reads my posts probably recalls the old song by "The Animals": We Gotta Get Out of This Place! If it's the last thing we ever do.....<br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-15458997603663125672022-06-01T21:46:00.003-04:002022-06-01T22:31:27.792-04:00I don't know what happened . . . Try again!<p>I don't know what happened to my memory, that is. I cannot, for the life of me, remember how to include a photo in the blog entry. I think my blogging days are over. I'll try this, and ask if someone will let me know if they can access the photo.<br /></p><p> https://mail.aol.com/webmail-std/en-us/DisplayMessage?ws_popup=true&ws_suite=true</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-79098656949164965782022-05-09T03:10:00.001-04:002022-05-09T03:10:25.488-04:00Beautiful Days!<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am really enjoying the days lately - warm enough, but not hot and dry yet. I haven't yet had to use heat or a/c to be comfortable in my house, so I'm grateful for that.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I need to get a new camera so I can take some photos of the house: I have the right side of the house, 1 story only (the rest of the house is 2-story). My garage is in front, and behind that is a long room, being kitchen, dining area, and living area in one, with full bath and bedroom at the rear of the house. I have a very nice patio in back, and my son Steve and his wife (Meg) bought me a beautiful patio furniture set. The weather is still cool enough that I don't sit outside for any length of time, but that time will definitely come soon! The back yard is very large which is nice for the dogs, and as nearly all California houses, has complete wooden fencing all around which provides great privacy. I try to walk Rocky around the neighborhood once a day, although my health is really worsening and some days I just don't feel like walking.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The "kitchen area " isn't much to speak of. Everything is lined up against one wall: fridge, sink and a fairly small countertop, cabinets - my table & chairs plus more cabinets in the "middle", and then the living area at the other end of the room. There is a hallway with the bathroom off to one side, and then the bedroom at the back of the house and the double doors to the patio. The kitchen has a microwave/convection oven; I have no clue what a convection oven is or how to use it, so I don't! I really would have preferred a more standard kitchen with at least a small stove/oven, but it is what it is. I did buy myself a hot plate so I can heat something up in a pan or skillet if I so desire although I just really don't care anymore! When I look back on the days when my children were young, and I took great pride in cooking delicious, nutritious meals from scratch - and then see how I'm reduced to heating up frozen meals in the microwave, I realize how low I can go!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The garage provides me a great place to store some things, such as my treadmill which is set up if I ever feel like walking on it; when my son Mike was here he bought floor to ceiling metal shelving and packed lesser used items on it. I'm grateful that he organized that area so well. The garage is in front and has a window from which I can see the street. I am planning to fix it up so it can be more useful to me than simply storage. I'd like to get some comfortable seating in there - maybe a small sofa or a couple of chairs. </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">All in all I like the space I have, although I'd like to have more contact with people than I do - although that is probably my fault as I don't have the desire any more to get out and make new friends. I've had to say goodbye to so many friends in my lifetime, and I'm tired of doing it. Many people that I've cherished are no longer around, and I don't have the drive to make new friends. I will be blogging a lot less as I just don't do anything to write about. But I will still enjoy reading the blogs of others. <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-16218884842218767872022-05-01T14:12:00.000-04:002022-05-01T14:12:19.897-04:00Just a quick update<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I thought I would say a quick hello to any readers I might have left! We have been moved in for a while now, and while I really like my space, I don't care much for being away from the goings-on in a city! And the only view I have is the tall fence along the side and rear of the property. <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Also my health seems to have tanked during the past six months, so I don't get out as much as I should. To add to that, the streets in this area are not on a grid, so I can easily get lost. It's not like I could take a "walk around the block".</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I suppose it's what I have coming when I think of the wonderful long life I have lived up to now. If I can figure out how to work my old camera, I'll try to take some pictures. No, I don't take photos with my phone. I talk on a phone; I take photos with a camera, and I send messages on my computer! Totally out of sync with today's world :-) </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-91537848432413704962022-03-29T23:53:00.000-04:002022-03-29T23:53:58.086-04:00It had to happen!<p> <b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I've finally had to start taking blood pressure medicine. I figured it eventually would happen to me if I lived long enough. The product I will take is called Amlodipine. If any readers take this drug, please let me know how it works for you, are there side effects, etc. I hate the idea of having to take anything on a regular basis, but I've lived a long time without major problems so I guess I'm due for something.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It seems so quiet around here without my two grandsons. They weren't boisterous or anything like that, but it was so nice to have them here, and Rocky was in dog heaven with them around.</span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-74956690545093640772022-03-28T20:32:00.000-04:002022-03-28T20:32:11.972-04:00A Wonderful Week!<p> <b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My oldest son (Mike), his wife (Sandy) and two boys (Joshua and Justin), came from New York for visit. They were here about 4 days and left yesterday evening - it's so quiet without them. Rocky was in doggie heaven the whole time! The younger boy is an excellent soccer player, and Rocky is darned good himself! You could see the joy emanating from him when they were kicking the ball in the back yard. Rocky is especially good at header balls, and I sometimes worry he will knock himself out! He also loves a good basketball game, but this week it has been soccer. It is so interesting to watch Rocky play - he is not a ball hog at all and seems to just "know the rules" instinctively.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I thought we were headed into summer but this morning I awoke to a cool rainy drizzle coming down. I'm glad because I'm just not mentally ready for summer in March!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-17763033713416259702022-03-25T04:23:00.000-04:002022-03-25T04:23:12.201-04:00Update<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I doubt if I will be posting from now on, unless something drastic or new arises. As it is, I'm living in the new space which is very nice and the perfect amount of space for me. </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It's the location that I don't care for, but I can't do anything about it. It's in a new housing development, way out from the city. I've said in the past that I've always been a city girl and that hasn't changed. I walk around my neighborhood with Jeannie & and dogs every day, but it's not what could be considered "city".</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm seriously considering moving back into Rancho Cordova, but don't know it would be worth the effort considering my age and stage in life. Also, I would probably p*ss off my entire family! </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I don't feel like I matter much any more, and even my dog shows that he doesn't think I matter. So I will probably stay where I am, wishing I could be someplace else where I could make friends more easily. I haven't met anyone even close to my age since we've been here. I guess that is how my life is going to go from now on. Sorry to post such a "downer" but I've really been "down" lately. I don't plan to continue the blog unless something changes drastically in the next few weeks, but I do plan to continue reading my "faves"!</span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-63558632547092373742022-03-17T20:54:00.001-04:002022-03-17T20:54:22.978-04:00Too Many Changes<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: courier;">I turned on my computer this morning to find everything changed! All my regular programs and sites have been tampered with, to the point where I've lost interest in trying to keep up with them. Maybe that's intentional on Google's part - phase out the old dinosaurs and make room for the younger ones who like constant change.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: courier;">So as it stands, I may send another post or two, but as for regular posting - I'm done with change for change's sake! <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: courier;"> </span></span></b> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-25892570454737689362022-03-04T18:39:00.002-05:002022-03-04T18:39:47.966-05:00Prsidents Day<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My oldest son sent this to me and since it gave me such a good laugh, I thought I'd share it.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> "I was eating breakfast with my 10 year old granddaughter and I asked her: "What day is tomorrow?" Without skipping a beat she said, "It's Presidents' Day".</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">She's smart so I asked her: "What does Presidents Day mean? I was waiting for something about Obama, Bush, Clinton, etc. She replied, "Presidents Day is when the President steps outside the White House, and if he sees his shadow we have another year of bullshit!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">You know, it hurts when hot coffee spurts out of your nose! </span></span></b><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-51518446136774561842022-03-01T23:00:00.000-05:002022-03-01T23:00:05.972-05:00A Much-Needed Outing!<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I went out for breakfast with my son, Steve, and his wife, Meg, this morning. Today is Steve's birthday so we had a very nice brunch and got a chance to visit with no dogs or kids running in circles around us! It was the first meal I've tried to eat in weeks, and I managed to devour about half of it. The other half is boxed and in my fridge, and I just ate a bit of it cold - almost as good as it was when it was warm!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The restaurant is in a very lovely and trendy spot - lots of shopping and restaurants, as well as living space (apartments/condos). It's really a self-contained neighborhood. After we finished eating we walked around the area, which really tired me out but was very good for me. I needed a push to get up and move about!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">So maybe I've reached a sort of turning point and can now feel like getting dressed in the morning, and taking a short walk every day. Or possibly I can talk myself into a walk every day on my treadmill. Every little bit will help.</span></span></b> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-14798405043271953232022-02-27T21:43:00.000-05:002022-02-27T21:43:54.235-05:00The End of a Blog<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I just want to say that I am going to discontinue this blog. It originally began as a way to document my travels, but I haven't traveled for several years now. It has mainly become a way for me to document my days, and to continue the habit of writing something about my day on a regular basis. </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think it's time to change the title and focus of the blog as it seems to have been attracting a few readers expecting to read about travel, or whatever, and they are disappointed in what they read.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I will try to think of a general focus for a new daily recount of my thoughts and activities and will publish something soon in that regard. I'll also have to figure out a new title. <br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I hope to keep in contact with friends I've made over the years, who also initially wrote about traveling, but who are no longer on the road. I want to stress that I will write about my days, what I think of certain events, etc. I am not writing to attract new readers, nor am I interested in criticism of my efforts, whether constructive (is there such a thing?) or non-constructive criticism. I have read many blogs in years past that held no interest to me, or which I found to be irritating in some way. I simply did not read that particular blog again, but I certainly didn't write nasty and critical emails to the author. That is beyond decent adult behavior, and I want no part of it.</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">So, if you have had any problems or criticisms of my previous efforts at blogging, please simply take me off your reading list!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">To those wonderful people I've been blessed to come in contact via the blog world, I hope to continue our association. Helpful hints and suggestions will be welcome, but I never did believe there is any kind of "constructive criticism". </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">To me the blog has become a sort of "daily diary" and a way to record my thoughts and activities. It also satisfies the urge I have to write about the thoughts and activities. So I won't expect many folks to keep reading my posts, and I urge those folks to find other blogs to their liking.<br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785311472371282139.post-47454056970226768732022-02-26T16:18:00.001-05:002022-02-26T16:18:15.360-05:00My best friend, Rocky!<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Rocky had a session with the groomers yesterday, and he is absolutely gorgeous right now. Of course his lab personality is always gorgeous, but now his beautiful black coat is so clean and shining! There's nothing like a clean dog, especially when they share your bed! </span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Right now he's off running somewhere in Jeannie's part of the house, while her pup, "Tito", is sitting here beside me gnawing on a bone. Tito is a small dog with a very pronounced and dominant personality. Sometimes he takes advantage of Rocky, but I try to not interfere as I will never understand doggie etiquette or dominance. Of course there are times I get tired of Rocky's easy going nature being used against him, so I take care to see that he gets what he wants/needs. Those two dogs probably have a pact together to take advantage of my human motherly tendencies!</span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My left hand is still hurting badly, but I'm determined to try to do what I can to use it. Typing is not easy but I think I'm doing a fairly good job of it! Much of the swelling has gone down, but much of the pain still remains. I don't think it will ever be "normal" again.<br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm going to take a few photos of my little "apartment", but I will have to straighten things up a bit so it doesn't look messy. Right now I'm only doing what is absolutely necessary while I still have so much pain. I will try to post some photos during the next week.<br /></span></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></b> <br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3