May 27 - 30, 2013 - AZ
Wednesday, May 29. The Memorial Day Service at our clubhouse was very nice on Monday. It started with an opening prayer by Bill, the reading of a very nice poem written by Clayton's mother, followed by a delicious meal of pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad and cucumber salad. We were then entertained by Jerry playing the trumpet to some old and some newer songs.
I was sitting under the Palo Verde trees in the back yard the other night when a Peach-faced Lovebird perched right next to me on a low hanging branch. It must have liked the music I was playing on my iPhone. I slowly reached over to get the phone so I could snap a picture but it flew away. Anyway, I got to enjoy it's presence for a few minutes.
I have felt more and more crappy as this week goes on - is it sinus infection, allergies, a cold? Who knows? But today, I spent most of the day just laying around. I didn't even go to my last physical therapy session - that is bad, when I can't just shrug it off and carry on. If I still feel yucky tomorrow, I will be calling the doctor.
I did manage to get the inside of the Miata cleaned up for it's new owner but I'm putting off cleaning the outside until Saturday or Sunday. It will be moving to Medford, OR on Sunday. I'm feeling bittersweet about it, knowing that it was something that Mike really enjoyed. I just don't think it makes sense for me to have 2 cars to maintain and to care for. The Honda should keep me going for years to come.
Check out the lastest Charlotte photo. Love, Love, Love Her!
Friday, May 31. Whatever this crud is, it has kept me down. I was unable to get an appointment to see my doctor, but she did suggest I take Allegra for the allergies and she called in a prescription for a cough syrup with codeine that I was to start taking this afternoon at 5:00 and again at bedtime. We'll see how that works. I'm a little upset that I was unable to get an appointment.
I cancelled a shopping trip that I had planned with Vicki to the new outlet mall that opened recently and I also had intended to go to TGIF tonight, but decided against that at the last minute. Yuck!
|
May 20 - 26, 2013 - AZ
Friday, May 24. Another week has whizzed right by and I am just now sitting down to update - not that much exciting has happened around here.
I was really missing cooking on Monday, so I invited Bruce & Carmen, Jan & Jim and Connie for dinner. I grilled pork chops and chicken, made coleslaw and baked beans and even baked a Coconut Rhubarb cake for dessert. It felt good to do this, as I have been really slacking on that front. I've always heard people say that it is no fun to cook for one and I have come to believe it. My eating habits have changed drastically.
I had 3 appointments this week - the first as my annual vision checkup and no changes there - Yay! Second was physical therapy assessment and I have another appointment in a week. It appears that my shoulder tends to droop down and forward, so we are going to work on getting it used to being in a position that is less likely to cause me problems in the future. This may have something to do with the nerve in my neck that tends to tighten and give me problems regularly. Thirdly was a 6-month follow-up with the Endocrinologist that was positive in all senses and I don't have to return for another 6 months. My thyroid and cholesterol are the primary concerns and they are both good, so I can continue the thyroid medication that I have and I still don't have to take anything for the cholesterol. Yay!
I had a nice, long conversation with Jill this week and got an ultrasound picture of the twins, although it was hard for me to make much sense of what I was seeing. All is going well on that front and she is feeling a bit better than she had been
I also heard from several friends and family members this week - the calls came at a good time because Wednesday was one of those blue days (I can't describe it any other way) where I just felt incredibly sad all day long.
My chime clock quit working this week, so I had to take it in to a repair shop. The guy told me that it probably could use an overhaul, since it was last taken for a tuneup in 2000. I know Mike did some maintenance to it, but who knows what. That is another one of a long list of things that he was responsible for and I know absolutely nothing about, nor could I even attempt to understand how it works.
I met up with Nan and Dale this evening and we went to Mac's Grill - a nice little place in their neighborhood that has great burgers. I hadn't seen those guys since Easter, so we had some catching up to do. They had some news from Wisconsin as they were just there for a visit.
Sunday, May 26. I spent the day yesterday cleaning house - I gave my wood furniture a good soaking of Liquid Gold - hopefully that will help prevent it from drying out - so far it has worked through the years. I even dusted the photo frames. It has been a long time since I've really felt like doing much, but I had a long day to fill and that took care of a good part of it.
Speaking of filling those long days, it is really hard. Unfortunately, when I run out of things to keep busy with, I end up shopping. Its a good thing that I can satisfy that urge by going to the thrift stores and I'm pretty good about leaving them empty handed. Naturally, when you are looking for something specific, you never do find it. Also, I still can't resist an Estate Sale and I found 3 of them in one neighborhood yesterday - again, I left them all empty handed.
This afternoon, I got a text from Dale asking if I wanted to meet them at Postino's in downtown Gilbert. What a great place that is! It is a wine bar that has beautiful outdoor seating and serves delicious appetizers - no meals. I would highly recommend it if you are ever in the neighborhood.
I've been going to my neighbor, Arlene's house to check on her cat while she is away. Missy is one of the sweetest cats that I have every met. She is starting to really miss her people, as this afternoon, she sat on my lap, rubbed all over me, purring loudly. When I got up to leave, my entire shirt and lap were covered with black hair.
|
May 13 - 19, 2013 - AZ
Thursday, May 13. I've spent more time at home this week than I have in the last 3 months and I've really been ok with that. My activities for the week haven't been so pleasant; a meeting with my financial guy to set up monthly draws to supplement my social security, designing an invitation for a Remember Mike gathering in Wisconsin on June 30, going through my music for a playlist for that event, reliving the events leading up to Mike's passing on February 13 and Dan's on March 10, and showing the Miata to several potential buyers.
There have been some good times too - a get-together at Jan and Jim's because they were leaving this week for the summer. They will actually be sticking around for another week or so, as some medical reasons and a malfunctioning refrigerator on their 5th Wheel has delayed their departure. It was a very nice evening with lots of food, beverages, laughter, and even a sing along with Bruce and Jim playing their guitars.
The next afternoon, several of us met at the pool for more talk and some good old pool time and plenty of sunshine.
I talked to Rosemary, my sister-in-law who had a stroke on February 11 (she is only 51 years old). She has improved a lot, but also has a long way to go. She is able to walk without a cane, can grasp things with her right hand now, her speech is much improved, and she said she was lucky to not have any paralysis on the right side of her face. She does have numbness and a sensation of tingling on her right side at all times. We had a really good cry together, as we both are mourning different things and promised to talk again soon.
Today, I joined several of the ladies for Ladie's Lunch at Paradise Bakery, then we all went to Turnstyle, a new consignment shop that is just down the street. I bought a purse, I just hope that it is big enough for me - it seems like I've got it stuffed.
Sunday, May 19. Although I haven't really had a hard time staying busy the last few days, the days seem to have dragged on and been really long. The quiet and lonely feel of the house gets to me sometimes - it feels really large.
I sold the Miata to a guy from Medford, OR. He is sending me a cashier's check on Monday and then flying here on June 2 to drive it home. His offer was the closest to my asking price that I have gotten. A couple of people offered me $1,500 less than my asking price - I think that is a bit of a stretch and very inconsiderate.
I know that there has to be an element of trust with online transactions and I am basing my trust on the email and phone conversations that I have had with the guy. I'm also looking back at the many Craig's list and long-distance transactions that Mike had over the years that all worked out positively. Our very first Miata and motor home were purchased online - based on photos and conversations back and forth with the sellers. He also sold a computer to a guy in New Orleans - that turned out to be a wonderful experience and we made friends with a very nice couple (see my journal entry from June 6-14, 2008).
|
May 6 - 12, 2013 - AZ
Monday, May 6. I had a full day at home today with the exception of going to use the freebie car wash that Roger gave me before he left.
I planted some ice plant ground cover around some of the plumbing mechanicals in the back yard - hopefully they will disguise the ugly stuff a little bit. I also put a bouganvilla in the ground that I happened to find at Lowe's last week for $2.00. The entire flat of ice plant was only $2.00 too.
Pat called me today with the news that his friend, Don, has purchased a memorial plaque at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Mike's memory. What a nice and generous thing to do and we are honored.
I made dinner for Allan and Sharon tonight, as they were back here for just a couple of days for some doctor visits before their summer travels - their house has been closed up for the summer already. It was nice to see them again and we enjoyed a grilled chicken, marinated tomato salad, and roasted asparagus out on the patio. We took the dogs for a walk around the park after dinner - a very nice evening.
Thursday, May 9. On Tuesday morning after my dentist appointment, Connie and I loaded up the Miata and headed down the road to St. David to spend the next 2 days at the Western Horizons RV resort where I had reserved one of the casitas for us. The resort was pretty deserted with only a few RVs and us - we were the lone guests in the casitas.
After a stop in Benson for some lunch, we checked in to our very nice accommodations and took a little walk around the property, We then headed to Tombstone to see what was going on there - not much. Most of the businesses were closed but we had a beer at Big Nose Kate's bar and listed to the jam session for a little while. Neither of us were very hungry after our late lunch, so we stopped at a gas station and bought some soup to have for dinner.
Cochise's Stronghold was first on the list of sights to see for Wednesday and we both enjoyed walking around that beautiful spot. The drive was a bit of a challenge as it was a gravel road for about 6 miles - not ideal for the Miata but we took it slow and easy and I don't think there was any harm done other than it was dust covered. Along the way, we spotted 3 deer that were feeding along the roadside.
Next on the list of things to see was Karchner Caverns. We were not impressed by the $25 charge, so declined to pay the fee and went on our way.
About 30 miles to the north was the Oasis Bird Sanctuary that sounded interesting to both of us. We tried to call ahead but nobody answered the phone so we just headed in that direction. Again, a 4.5 mile stretch of gravel road, only to find that visits were by appointment only. Karen was gracious enough to give us a tour without an appointment and we both found it to be very interesting. They are a non-profit organization that houses about 700 exotic birds that have issues or became homeless for one reason or another. The oasis becomes a permanent home for them, as they are not adopted out from there. The place is clean, very well cared for and we were entertained by a few of the birds. One Macaw approached is, perched, spread her beautiful red wings and sang "wings" "wings". Others greeted us with a cheerful "hello".
Today, we headed toward Tucson and the Sabino Canyon where we took the tram and hiked most of the road back to the beginning. I had recently been there with Bob and Penny, but it was just as nice to see the 2nd time around.
Other wildlife sighting were a Roadrunner, lots of lizards, a free-roaming cow, and a pale pink snake that was not far from the patio of our casita - a little too close for comfort. There also was a gecko in my bedroom window. We were able to coax it to leave rather than to get loose in the house.
Friday, May 10. My morning was busy, with an 8:00 physical therapy appointment that lasted almost 2 hours. In fact, I left there just in time to get to my haircut appointment. My range of motion has improved to almost 100% with the exception of the arthritis that comes into play when I raise my arm straight up over my head. I have a follow-up in 2 weeks.
The Miata is listed for sale on Craig's List - it was a high priority as I've got to get going on finding a new owner for it - hopefully, before I start my summer travels. My fingers are crossed that I get a fair price and an honest buyer.
I had a nice chat with Ben and Charlotte over dinner tonight - I sure do miss her. She has a good memory of her visit here over Christmas, as she always asks to see Frisco and to see my wine bottles on the hanger in the dining room.
Saturday, May 11. Rest in Peace, dear Irene. After helping with the preparation for food for close to 100 people, I attended the memorial service at the clubhouse. It was well attended by family and friends. No wonder, as she was a sweet, caring, accomplished and adventurous lady who was highly regarded by everyone she knew. Her little dog, Princess, was even there to say goodbye.
Again, I am impressed by the people in this community that pool their resources to get a job done and to show their support.
|
May 1 - 5, 2013 - AZ
Wednesday, May 1. The time to say goodbye has come way too fast and I realized that I won't be waking up tomorrow to Charlotte's sweet little voice singing, "Hello Grandma, it's so nice to see you" "Milk?" She wakes up every morning with a smile on her face, just like her daddy did when he was little.
Ben took me to the airport and saved me a lengthy trip by shuttle - what a sweet guy. It's nice that he has flexibility with his work schedule. My flight was on schedule and all went well - a 1.5 hour flight is not bad at all.
Heading back home and arriving at home was not too pleasant today, my eyes have been welling up with tears at the thought of Mike being gone, and the lonely, empty feeling around here. When Ariana got home from work, I went to pick Frisco up. She told me that he was a lot more cuddly than usual - the poor guy is probably feeling like I am - kind of lost and broken-hearted.
I did get home to a stack of birthday wishes hanging on my patio and in the mail - that was so sweet of so many people. When I went to the patio to check on things, I noticed that the little barrel cactus that Mike picked out a couple of years ago had the prettiest little flower on it. I think it was a sign that he was telling me "welcome home".
Thursday, May 2. My emotions didn't improve much today - the tears continued. I managed to stay busy at home most of the day, don't ask me how.
I learned that my friend, Irene, passed away last night. She and I exchanged pet sitting and I kept Princess while she was in the hospital recently. I knew that she was on the decline, but was very saddened by her loss. She was an example of one who pushed the envelope to get back on her feet and move on. A very independent and accomplished woman - I will try to remember the example that she set.
Jan called this afternoon to invite me over for dinner. My initial response was to decline but then I thought it might be good to gather with some friends - my sadness might go away for a while. I whipped up some of Mom's fried corn recipe, mixed a *bleep*tail and headed over there. Jim cooked chicken thighs, Connie brought a salad, and Sue brought herself - we had a very nice visit followed by an evening walk with Kathy and her dog Stoner (he came from a bunch of hippies, I believe).
Friday, May 3. My morning was busy - blood draw for my upcoming doctor appointment and physical therapy. They had to poke me 3 times to get the blood they needed - this was not a problem in the past - I was always told that I had great veins. Must be another one of those aging things. PT went well - my range of motion is quite good, but the muscles and tendons are really messed up. Apparently, because of the arthritis and tears in the rotator cuff, the trapezoid muscle does a lot of the work - that thing is so knotted up and painful when massaged. It is getting better though.
The rest of the day was spent at home, futzing around with my plants, knitting, and Sudoku (haven't done any of those lately, but I really enjoyed it - so much that I did about 5 of them).
|
Created on 05/02/2013 09:31 AM by bridge
Updated on 06/02/2013 08:13 PM by bridge
|
|
|
