Happiest of New Years to you all.
Tomorrow I will begin the regular daily blogs.
Love to you all, dear family, Val
Sunday, December 31, 2017
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Blogs will resume in January. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, and a very Happy New Year.
Love, Val
Love, Val
Sunday, December 10, 2017
Sunday, December 10, 2017
Last night I went to a dance! I went 'stag' with a friend, and saw another friend there whose date asked me to dance! That was very courteous of him. She asked if I was going to Casino Night here on New Year's Eve, I think I might. Black Jack is my forte.
On Friday I went to the Town Hall Meeting, held every month. Residents are encouraged to attend by being given a raffle ticket at the door. Two prizes are awarded, this time candy (which I did not win). Grievances are aired, and staff present the latest happenings.
The usual people asked the usual picky questions, which were handled smoothly by the Director and his staff. I learned something however! They had a problem with dog poop in the halls. Who was the culprit??? They found out!
Through the assistance of a local university lab which traced DNA samples! The erring dog was identified. Hi tech comes to retirement home! The owner was duly billed for the costs and presumably didn't do it again.
There were also complaints about rats eating the wiring in some models of automobiles. The Director pointed out that we had actually taken over the rats' ancestral home, the ravine, and we should try to live in harmony with our fellow creatures, or words to that effect. They have Orkin come on a regular basis to deal with the problem.
The high winds seem to have abated down here, so the fire danger has lessened. There is an emergency pack you can purchase through La Costa Glen with all sorts of clever things in it, like radio/flashlight. I think I will get one.
Today Andrew Mack comes for brunch, and after he leaves I am going on a Night Harbor Cruise in San Diego Bay. We should get back about 10:00PM. Fun.
Tomorrow Trevor comes. We will go to Balboa Park for his birthday, then to a party here. Then back on Wednesday to Manhattan Beach to meet with a new prospective trust lawyer on December 14.
Hope you are all well, love to all, Val
On Friday I went to the Town Hall Meeting, held every month. Residents are encouraged to attend by being given a raffle ticket at the door. Two prizes are awarded, this time candy (which I did not win). Grievances are aired, and staff present the latest happenings.
The usual people asked the usual picky questions, which were handled smoothly by the Director and his staff. I learned something however! They had a problem with dog poop in the halls. Who was the culprit??? They found out!
Through the assistance of a local university lab which traced DNA samples! The erring dog was identified. Hi tech comes to retirement home! The owner was duly billed for the costs and presumably didn't do it again.
There were also complaints about rats eating the wiring in some models of automobiles. The Director pointed out that we had actually taken over the rats' ancestral home, the ravine, and we should try to live in harmony with our fellow creatures, or words to that effect. They have Orkin come on a regular basis to deal with the problem.
The high winds seem to have abated down here, so the fire danger has lessened. There is an emergency pack you can purchase through La Costa Glen with all sorts of clever things in it, like radio/flashlight. I think I will get one.
Today Andrew Mack comes for brunch, and after he leaves I am going on a Night Harbor Cruise in San Diego Bay. We should get back about 10:00PM. Fun.
Tomorrow Trevor comes. We will go to Balboa Park for his birthday, then to a party here. Then back on Wednesday to Manhattan Beach to meet with a new prospective trust lawyer on December 14.
Hope you are all well, love to all, Val
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Does anyone remember Pearl Harbor?
Fires in California are dominating the news. We used to drive by Skirball and the Getty Center every time we went to and from Mammoth. The LA basin is something of a trap, and I am glad I don't live there any more.
All the residents of La Costa Glen are urged to wear devices that allow the safety and emergency staff to find you anywhere on the campus should you need help. You push the little button and they are there very fast. Last evening I was having a pleasant dinner with two new friends when a young man with a large bag came rushing up to our table. He asked if I was all right. I said yes. He said my button had somehow sounded the alarm. I can't imagine how it could have been pushed accidentally, but anyway, the system works! Sort of. Most people it seems carry it on their wrists. Mine is a necklace. I am learning. Also lost my name badge. A new one will be issued at a cost of $5.00.
A nice call from my brother last evening. Also from my Mammoth friend Barbara Hope. Have heard nothing from Trevor since he went to Utah on Monday. Wendy is in Montreal this week so will not call since Canadian phone costs are astronomical. Nothing from Jane in ages. Mack calls faithfully. Much appreciated.
Love to all, Val
Fires in California are dominating the news. We used to drive by Skirball and the Getty Center every time we went to and from Mammoth. The LA basin is something of a trap, and I am glad I don't live there any more.
All the residents of La Costa Glen are urged to wear devices that allow the safety and emergency staff to find you anywhere on the campus should you need help. You push the little button and they are there very fast. Last evening I was having a pleasant dinner with two new friends when a young man with a large bag came rushing up to our table. He asked if I was all right. I said yes. He said my button had somehow sounded the alarm. I can't imagine how it could have been pushed accidentally, but anyway, the system works! Sort of. Most people it seems carry it on their wrists. Mine is a necklace. I am learning. Also lost my name badge. A new one will be issued at a cost of $5.00.
A nice call from my brother last evening. Also from my Mammoth friend Barbara Hope. Have heard nothing from Trevor since he went to Utah on Monday. Wendy is in Montreal this week so will not call since Canadian phone costs are astronomical. Nothing from Jane in ages. Mack calls faithfully. Much appreciated.
Love to all, Val
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
December 6, 2017
At the end of November the residents of La Costa Glen collect money to tip the hourly paid staff, tipping here not being allowed at any other time. The money is counted and apportioned appropriately with sizable checks to the maintenance workers, the housekeepers, the kitchen staff, the dining room staff, and so on.
Yesterday we gathered in Catalina Hall to distribute the checks to these wonderful people. There were two podiums, with hospitality residents calling the names. There were two lines of La Costa Glenners who, as each was called up to the podiums, gave them their check and a big hug! It was fun to see 'cool' young men striding stonefaced up to receive their envelope, then suddenly breaking into a grin as the clapping swelled. Some received wild applause from their fellow workers. The staff here are carefully selected for their warmth and friendliness as well as their abilities. La Costa Glen takes good care of its employees. There are 600 of them to about 1,000 residents!
The Christmas decorations are amazing. The gingerbread scene is in place and my little house is there, with the red candy in the chimney! The village is done every year by a resident and her grandson. What would we do without grandsons!
Fully speed ahead to Christmas! Love to all, Val
Yesterday we gathered in Catalina Hall to distribute the checks to these wonderful people. There were two podiums, with hospitality residents calling the names. There were two lines of La Costa Glenners who, as each was called up to the podiums, gave them their check and a big hug! It was fun to see 'cool' young men striding stonefaced up to receive their envelope, then suddenly breaking into a grin as the clapping swelled. Some received wild applause from their fellow workers. The staff here are carefully selected for their warmth and friendliness as well as their abilities. La Costa Glen takes good care of its employees. There are 600 of them to about 1,000 residents!
The Christmas decorations are amazing. The gingerbread scene is in place and my little house is there, with the red candy in the chimney! The village is done every year by a resident and her grandson. What would we do without grandsons!
Fully speed ahead to Christmas! Love to all, Val
Sunday, December 3, 2017
Sunday, December 3. 2017
It is a beautiful Sunday morning in Carlsbad. I am feeling serene.
This place is really starting to feel like home.
Last evening I walked over to Catalina Hall at around 7:00pm for a youth concert performed by some gifted young musicians from the Balboa Park youth music program. They had performed last year in Beijing and Shanghai. They were very good. I asked one of the musicians if she had heard of the Sierra Academy of Music. She said she would look into it! She would be in their league.
Ethel Iverson came over and introduced me to her friends. You meet new people easily here, as everyone is very outgoing. A room full of people interested in classical music performed by young musicians has to be a kind of filter. After the concert I went up to trolly stop and waited until a charming young woman picked us up in an electric golf cart kind-of-thing that holds eight people. She was asked how she liked the night shift. She said it was working on Saturday that she didn't care for so much, but was very cheerful anyway. She dropped me off at the closest possible spot to "home". The residents are very interested in their staff, from the gardeners to the waiters to the bus drivers to the cleaning crew. The staff are hand picked and I have not yet seen a rude or surly worker here.
I have been enjoying a History of Scotland series by the BBC. It gives us a glimpse of history from the Scottish point of view. Coincidentally, they have a series playing here every Saturday morning on Medieval England. They mentioned the great masterpiece of the pre historical era of the northlands of Europe. Beowulf. I have read it four times. I will try to find the translation theyrecommend. Surprisingly, I learned that the invasion of William the Conqueror in 1066 was from a territory in France that had been settled by men from the north. Scandinavians! By then they all spoke French, but genetically were not so different perhaps.
I have also been reading a glossy info-magazine "The Power of Exercise" which presents the latest findings on the subject. Turns out that running is NOT bad for your knees! And other encouraging new findings. I am motivated!
Hope you are all well and happy. Please let me know how you are if I haven't heard from you in awhile. Jane? Nancy? Ian?
Love to all, Val
This place is really starting to feel like home.
Last evening I walked over to Catalina Hall at around 7:00pm for a youth concert performed by some gifted young musicians from the Balboa Park youth music program. They had performed last year in Beijing and Shanghai. They were very good. I asked one of the musicians if she had heard of the Sierra Academy of Music. She said she would look into it! She would be in their league.
Ethel Iverson came over and introduced me to her friends. You meet new people easily here, as everyone is very outgoing. A room full of people interested in classical music performed by young musicians has to be a kind of filter. After the concert I went up to trolly stop and waited until a charming young woman picked us up in an electric golf cart kind-of-thing that holds eight people. She was asked how she liked the night shift. She said it was working on Saturday that she didn't care for so much, but was very cheerful anyway. She dropped me off at the closest possible spot to "home". The residents are very interested in their staff, from the gardeners to the waiters to the bus drivers to the cleaning crew. The staff are hand picked and I have not yet seen a rude or surly worker here.
I have been enjoying a History of Scotland series by the BBC. It gives us a glimpse of history from the Scottish point of view. Coincidentally, they have a series playing here every Saturday morning on Medieval England. They mentioned the great masterpiece of the pre historical era of the northlands of Europe. Beowulf. I have read it four times. I will try to find the translation theyrecommend. Surprisingly, I learned that the invasion of William the Conqueror in 1066 was from a territory in France that had been settled by men from the north. Scandinavians! By then they all spoke French, but genetically were not so different perhaps.
I have also been reading a glossy info-magazine "The Power of Exercise" which presents the latest findings on the subject. Turns out that running is NOT bad for your knees! And other encouraging new findings. I am motivated!
Hope you are all well and happy. Please let me know how you are if I haven't heard from you in awhile. Jane? Nancy? Ian?
Love to all, Val
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Christmas has begun in earnest at La Costa Glen.
This is the gingerbread house I decorated yesterday. Our efforts will be part of a grand 'village' of houses, some done by professional pastry chefs. I will send a picture when they are displayed in the main clubhouse.
Love to you all, Val
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Last time we chronicled Andrew Mack's doings at UCSD. Today we hear about Matthew.
Matthew has landed a dream job for the summer! Most people would agree that turning down a fabulous summer job with Microsoft takes some doing, but Matthew has decided that working with drones will be much more interesting. In his own words, “I finally pulled the proverbial trigger and signed with Skydio.” He modestly attributes this possibility to his connections afforded by Olin. Again in his words, “Its one thing to get a job with Microsoft out of Sophomore year of college, but its an entire other thing to be able to turn down a return offer for something even better…the founder went to Olin, someone in my class is spending the semester working there, they know how Oliners work and they hire for that.” Skydio is currently in stealth mode, but they should be making news before the end of the year. Stay tuned!
Off for my Lagoon walk this morning under sunny skies.
Love to you all, Val
Matthew has landed a dream job for the summer! Most people would agree that turning down a fabulous summer job with Microsoft takes some doing, but Matthew has decided that working with drones will be much more interesting. In his own words, “I finally pulled the proverbial trigger and signed with Skydio.” He modestly attributes this possibility to his connections afforded by Olin. Again in his words, “Its one thing to get a job with Microsoft out of Sophomore year of college, but its an entire other thing to be able to turn down a return offer for something even better…the founder went to Olin, someone in my class is spending the semester working there, they know how Oliners work and they hire for that.” Skydio is currently in stealth mode, but they should be making news before the end of the year. Stay tuned!
Off for my Lagoon walk this morning under sunny skies.
Love to you all, Val
Saturday, November 25, 2017
Saturday, November 25, 2017
Thanksgiving at La Costa Glen
Trevor and Robyn arrived on Thursday after enduring an excruciatingly slow drive down the San Diego freeway. Mack arrived shortly after. Since the dining rooms at La Costa Glen closed at 3:00 for the holiday we all walked over at 5:30 to the shopping center and feasted on turkey and trimmings at Buca di Beppo.
Mack told us what he is up to. He is an information systems manager at UCSD. He is responsible for the smooth operation of computer systems used by the recreation and intercollegiate athletics departments. The work done for these departments is varied and paid for by different budgets. For example state funded operations are paid for by the state of California, student contributions pay for student funded work and so on. There are over 12 different funds. Many different classifications of work/time have to be calculated. For example, hourly pay during regular work hours, but also overtime, night shift, holidays. The time worked formerly had to be recorded on paper time sheets on site. It required three full time employees 10 hours every other week to calculate the distribution of pay for all of the bi-weekly employees.
Trevor and Robyn arrived on Thursday after enduring an excruciatingly slow drive down the San Diego freeway. Mack arrived shortly after. Since the dining rooms at La Costa Glen closed at 3:00 for the holiday we all walked over at 5:30 to the shopping center and feasted on turkey and trimmings at Buca di Beppo.
Mack told us what he is up to. He is an information systems manager at UCSD. He is responsible for the smooth operation of computer systems used by the recreation and intercollegiate athletics departments. The work done for these departments is varied and paid for by different budgets. For example state funded operations are paid for by the state of California, student contributions pay for student funded work and so on. There are over 12 different funds. Many different classifications of work/time have to be calculated. For example, hourly pay during regular work hours, but also overtime, night shift, holidays. The time worked formerly had to be recorded on paper time sheets on site. It required three full time employees 10 hours every other week to calculate the distribution of pay for all of the bi-weekly employees.
Mack saw a need to make this system more efficient. He built from scratch a web-based time keeping application that records time worked across all the departments and makes it possible for people to record their time wherever they may be with their cell phones or computers. Employees can now submit information about work they have done, reporting job description and category, and have it reviewed by a supervisor without even going on campus. It has reduced the man hours of calculation from 30 to 1.5 in a two week period, a dramatic reduction!
We suspect he is a rising star in the organization. Next blog I will tell you of Matthew's amazing summer plans.
This morning Trevor and Robyn decorated the lighted Christmas tree on my patio. It was wonderful to have them for so long. They are heading home as I write this.
Now full speed ahead to Christmas!
Love to you all, Val
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Happy Thanksgiving to all my American relatives, and to all the rest, I think we are very fortunate to live in such times, and places. I am delving into the history of the British Isles and it was not very nice there for much of recorded history. Wars, famine, plague.
The sun is shining here, the temperature going into the 80's and life is good.
Love to you all, Val
The sun is shining here, the temperature going into the 80's and life is good.
Love to you all, Val
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
It was a wonderful weekend!
Eight of us got together for dinner last night! Ian and family, Mack, Trevor, Robyn and myself.
Ian had been wonderfully helpful in the morning putting up pictures, moving heavy stuff etc. and when Trevor came we all drove to Costco and bought a small TV set for the kitchen which Trevor mounted. Daisy had gone with kids to visit old friends in San Diego, and Mack, when he got off work drove them back here. The kids busied themselves with drawing and music-making on the keyboard, and Daisy and Robyn got reacquainted. Trevor played some YouTube videos of his latest passion, paramotoring, and Ian and Mack watched intently.
Since Ian had to leave early today, the party broke up shortly after we got back to the villa from dinner. Trevor and Robyn drove back to the South Bay, and Mack left for his place, and all was quiet again.
Thank you all for coming.
Today people here are leaving with suitcases, but I am glad I am not traveling over Thanksgiving weekend. Mack and Trevor and Robyn are coming here for Thanksgiving dinner, and we will call and say hello to the gathering at Brianne's house in Washington. Then, full speed ahead to Christmas!
I am thinking of compiling a cookbook with contributions from family members, quite a number of whom like to cook. Do you have a favorite recipe to share? Stay tuned!
Love to you all, Val
Eight of us got together for dinner last night! Ian and family, Mack, Trevor, Robyn and myself.
Ian had been wonderfully helpful in the morning putting up pictures, moving heavy stuff etc. and when Trevor came we all drove to Costco and bought a small TV set for the kitchen which Trevor mounted. Daisy had gone with kids to visit old friends in San Diego, and Mack, when he got off work drove them back here. The kids busied themselves with drawing and music-making on the keyboard, and Daisy and Robyn got reacquainted. Trevor played some YouTube videos of his latest passion, paramotoring, and Ian and Mack watched intently.
Since Ian had to leave early today, the party broke up shortly after we got back to the villa from dinner. Trevor and Robyn drove back to the South Bay, and Mack left for his place, and all was quiet again.
Thank you all for coming.
Today people here are leaving with suitcases, but I am glad I am not traveling over Thanksgiving weekend. Mack and Trevor and Robyn are coming here for Thanksgiving dinner, and we will call and say hello to the gathering at Brianne's house in Washington. Then, full speed ahead to Christmas!
I am thinking of compiling a cookbook with contributions from family members, quite a number of whom like to cook. Do you have a favorite recipe to share? Stay tuned!
Love to you all, Val
Monday, November 20, 2017
Monday, November 20, 2017
Yesterday Andrew Mack showed up at my place around 10:30 and at 12:30 Ian and family arrived. After a tour of the grounds we all went into the dining room for a buffet brunch. We walked it off by exploring the other half of the campus, where the reflecting pond full of koi gives the name to the Lakeside Clubhouse. We saw the waterfall from the bottom and from the top. Then Cassie and Richard and I walked the maze.
Back to the villa and an inspection of the back patio to marvel at my lemon tree, tomato plant, strawberries and herbs.Then Mack found a video about paramotoring which was of great interest to Ian. Cassie drew pictures of the day's events including the waterfall. Richard put earphones on so as not to disturb us, and played the keyboard.
Tomorrow Trevor will drive down from Manhattan Beach, and Daisy will take the kids to see some old friends from their Point Loma days in the Navy. Trevor and Ian and I will spend some time hanging pictures and deciding if there is anything Ian wants to take back in the car. Mack, of course, will be back to work. They leave from the motel early tomorrow for the long drive back.
It is wonderful to have them visit, and I hope they come again. In January I am expecting Bri and Maddox to come here, also Jonathan and Sue, and Wendy and Michel. Better get your reservations in fast!!
Love to all, Val
Friday, November 17, 2017
Friday, November 17, 2017
Yesterday I had a 'fitness test'. They baseline your physical capabilities, then prescribe exercises that will, hopefully, improve them. There were several other residents there, and the three members of the Fitness Department, Zy, Alison and Patti who were checking us out. We did things like marching in place for 2 minutes , lifting knees (but not too high), standing up from a chair as many times as possible in 30 seconds, and weight lifting and stretching. They will send me a report within a week and make recommendations for classes and exercises to do at home.
Today I go to the Apple store nearby, to take a class in computers. I will bring my iPad.
Had dinner with two neighbors last night, then watched the Tesla truck unveiling. Don't say anything negative about Musk in my presence!
Ian and Daisy and the kids come on Sunday, and so will Andrew Mack.
Trevor will come for the day on Monday, and Ian will leave early Tuesday morning to drive back. It will be great to see them all together. We will go swimming, and watch the model sailboats in the lake. And eat by the waterfall.
Love to you all, Val
Today I go to the Apple store nearby, to take a class in computers. I will bring my iPad.
Had dinner with two neighbors last night, then watched the Tesla truck unveiling. Don't say anything negative about Musk in my presence!
Ian and Daisy and the kids come on Sunday, and so will Andrew Mack.
Trevor will come for the day on Monday, and Ian will leave early Tuesday morning to drive back. It will be great to see them all together. We will go swimming, and watch the model sailboats in the lake. And eat by the waterfall.
Love to you all, Val
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Back "home" after two nights in a very empty Manhattan Beach house. The time was spent packing and sorting the (almost) last load to La Costa Glen. We also met with the Chase Bank representative to give Trevor access to the Westin account. We also made an appointment to see a new trust lawyer who was recommended by my longtime tax accountant, Pat Weinstein. We will see him December 14.
After a morning of moving stuff downstairs, I had lunch with Hazel Shindo, a very old friend from the Yacht Club, and dinner with Jack and Marilyn and Trevor at the Big Wok.
Trev and I left yesterday and made it to La Costa in an hour and a half. We had a fabulous lunch under the waterfall, with the best baby back ribs you can imagine. Also very good tortilla soup. Then we got to work unloading the car into the living room. Then to Ortho Mattress to purchasea Beautyrest mattress which will be delivered to the door tomorrow. Stopped at Crate and Barrel, but they don't have big furniture. I want to buy another bed and put the foam mattress from Manhattan Beach on it for the guest room. Trevor says the pull out sofa bed is not comfortable, and I must have nothing but the best for my guests! I cannot give it to the Marines, but they said Salvation Army would take it.
I have an appointment with Alison today for a 'fitness evaluation'. Then dinner with two neighbors, and back to watch the unveiling of the new Tesla truck!
When I got back from shopping this morning there was the shovel ordered from Amazon yesterday, right at my door. The system works!
Wendy calls me faithfully every morning from Paris (my morning, her evening) and Andrew Mack is a very faithful caller on his way home from work. Bri does a fantastic job of sending pictures of 'superbaby' and calls a lot too. Thank you so much, it is really appreciated. Of course without Trevor's devotion none of what has been accomplished in the past three months would have been possible. Trevor, you are amazing.
Ian and family arrive on Sunday and will stay in a nearby motel, leaving Tuesday. It will be so good to see them. Andrew Mack may come on Sunday, and Trevor on Monday to see them.
Mack and Trevor and possibly Robin are coming here for the Thanksgiving feast so we will be thinking of you all slaving over a hot oven!!
Love to all, Val
After a morning of moving stuff downstairs, I had lunch with Hazel Shindo, a very old friend from the Yacht Club, and dinner with Jack and Marilyn and Trevor at the Big Wok.
Trev and I left yesterday and made it to La Costa in an hour and a half. We had a fabulous lunch under the waterfall, with the best baby back ribs you can imagine. Also very good tortilla soup. Then we got to work unloading the car into the living room. Then to Ortho Mattress to purchasea Beautyrest mattress which will be delivered to the door tomorrow. Stopped at Crate and Barrel, but they don't have big furniture. I want to buy another bed and put the foam mattress from Manhattan Beach on it for the guest room. Trevor says the pull out sofa bed is not comfortable, and I must have nothing but the best for my guests! I cannot give it to the Marines, but they said Salvation Army would take it.
I have an appointment with Alison today for a 'fitness evaluation'. Then dinner with two neighbors, and back to watch the unveiling of the new Tesla truck!
When I got back from shopping this morning there was the shovel ordered from Amazon yesterday, right at my door. The system works!
Wendy calls me faithfully every morning from Paris (my morning, her evening) and Andrew Mack is a very faithful caller on his way home from work. Bri does a fantastic job of sending pictures of 'superbaby' and calls a lot too. Thank you so much, it is really appreciated. Of course without Trevor's devotion none of what has been accomplished in the past three months would have been possible. Trevor, you are amazing.
Ian and family arrive on Sunday and will stay in a nearby motel, leaving Tuesday. It will be so good to see them. Andrew Mack may come on Sunday, and Trevor on Monday to see them.
Mack and Trevor and possibly Robin are coming here for the Thanksgiving feast so we will be thinking of you all slaving over a hot oven!!
Love to all, Val
Monday, November 13, 2017
Monday, November 13, 2017
Rosalie decided not to come yesterday, but will come around ten and drive me back in the afternoon. I have been here one month today!
Maddox loves plums! A bit messy, but oh, so good!
Jonathan called last night and reported a below freezing cold snap. Not for me!
Sue's father is settling into his new retirement home living, so that must be a relief for the family.
I planted freezias, purple and white, to come up next spring. Also some garlic cloves and chives. I will pot some more paperwhites to bloom after the others are finished flowering. My lemon tree and tomato plant like their new quarters.
Ian and family come on Sunday. It will be great to see them. Then Trevor and I have to get busy putting up curtains, getting a new bed, and the sofa bed to the Marines in Camp Pendleton. Yesterday, as part of a La Costa Glen project, I wrote five Christmas cards to overseas military personnel who will be away for the holidays. They mail them for us. Nice idea.
Be good, and lets hear your news,
Love, Val
Maddox loves plums! A bit messy, but oh, so good!
Jonathan called last night and reported a below freezing cold snap. Not for me!
Sue's father is settling into his new retirement home living, so that must be a relief for the family.
I planted freezias, purple and white, to come up next spring. Also some garlic cloves and chives. I will pot some more paperwhites to bloom after the others are finished flowering. My lemon tree and tomato plant like their new quarters.
Ian and family come on Sunday. It will be great to see them. Then Trevor and I have to get busy putting up curtains, getting a new bed, and the sofa bed to the Marines in Camp Pendleton. Yesterday, as part of a La Costa Glen project, I wrote five Christmas cards to overseas military personnel who will be away for the holidays. They mail them for us. Nice idea.
Be good, and lets hear your news,
Love, Val
Sunday, November 12, 2017
Sunday, November 12, 2017
This is what its all about. On November 8 I think, there were 4 answers to my blog! Everyone can communicate family news. Do it guys!
Yesterday I went to the Veteran's Memorial service. I took some video of everybody singing the Navy song, but they sang all the service songs. There was a WAC there in full uniform that I remember from childhood. Great ladies.
Took the car out in the afternoon and bought a tomato plant, and some veggie plants, chives lettuce, onions etc. Also bulbs. My friend comes from Manhattan Beach today to spend the night in the James Dean room. Tomorrow I drive back with her to get some more stuff sorted at 3020 Highland Ave. Hope everybody got back from David's Mom's event.
Jane reports her mom made cookies! Nancy must be improving fast!
Yesterday I went to the Veteran's Memorial service. I took some video of everybody singing the Navy song, but they sang all the service songs. There was a WAC there in full uniform that I remember from childhood. Great ladies.
Took the car out in the afternoon and bought a tomato plant, and some veggie plants, chives lettuce, onions etc. Also bulbs. My friend comes from Manhattan Beach today to spend the night in the James Dean room. Tomorrow I drive back with her to get some more stuff sorted at 3020 Highland Ave. Hope everybody got back from David's Mom's event.
Jane reports her mom made cookies! Nancy must be improving fast!
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Veterans Day is big here. There is a group of WW11 vets from La Costa Glen that were recently honored in a special ceremony in Washington. When they returned to San Diego the airport was filled with cheering fans, some children. These vets are now people in their 90's.
My neighbor's husband, now deceased 5 years, was a bomber pilot and did 51 missions.
I did some more exploring yesterday. There were only two people signed up to go shopping, so we went in one of their cars instead of the 30 passenger bus to a huge mall in downtown Carlrsbad, that has been recently refurbished and is still undergoing construction. There is a very popular new Cheesecake Factory, and a Macy's, J.C.Penny's, and Sears. A lot of it seemed to cater to young people, perhaps military from Camp Pendleton. The other passenger was a Japanese lady who is taking her family to Japan on Thursday. She has a lot of family there.
Got back in time to catch the last half hour of the Town Hall meeting. To entice people to participate they give you a raffle ticket as you enter. Prizes were bottles of wine. The new staff are introduced, and various departments like Safety, Transportation and Food were reported on and took questions. The residents are given a portable mike so the questions and not just the answers can be heard. The questions were well handled I thought, and the staff amazingly cooperative and competent.
Let me know if you are reading this stuff, Love to all, Val
My neighbor's husband, now deceased 5 years, was a bomber pilot and did 51 missions.
I did some more exploring yesterday. There were only two people signed up to go shopping, so we went in one of their cars instead of the 30 passenger bus to a huge mall in downtown Carlrsbad, that has been recently refurbished and is still undergoing construction. There is a very popular new Cheesecake Factory, and a Macy's, J.C.Penny's, and Sears. A lot of it seemed to cater to young people, perhaps military from Camp Pendleton. The other passenger was a Japanese lady who is taking her family to Japan on Thursday. She has a lot of family there.
Got back in time to catch the last half hour of the Town Hall meeting. To entice people to participate they give you a raffle ticket as you enter. Prizes were bottles of wine. The new staff are introduced, and various departments like Safety, Transportation and Food were reported on and took questions. The residents are given a portable mike so the questions and not just the answers can be heard. The questions were well handled I thought, and the staff amazingly cooperative and competent.
Let me know if you are reading this stuff, Love to all, Val
Friday, November 10, 2017
Friday, November 10, 2017
My friend Rosalie is coming down to spend the night at La Costa Glen Sunday. We will do some sightseeing then I will drive back with her to MB on Monday.
Yesterday I had a long talk with Wendy in Paris, while walking along the strand in Carlsbad Beach. She is making interesting soups, quiches and other French culinary marvels. She will soon be decorating gingerbread houses with some of her students!
Trevor's back is steadily improving. He is off Advil!
Yesterday at 4:00 I was escorted by two neighbors, the co-reps for the Garden Villas, to a mixer party for newcomers. We were offered calamari and wine, and two new staff members were introduced. The Executive Director was there and introduced himself. The Marketing rep who got me into the villa of my dreams was there, as were many others I am starting to get to know. La Costa Glen takes its welcoming of new residents very seriously. I had dinner later with Antoinette, who is not quite as new as I am, and were joined by another couple. You never have to dine alone here.
Today there is a Town Hall meeting open to all. I will drop by and see what it is all about.
Beautiful warm sunny day here. Cold snap coming in the East. C'mon visit me!
Love to all, Val
Yesterday I had a long talk with Wendy in Paris, while walking along the strand in Carlsbad Beach. She is making interesting soups, quiches and other French culinary marvels. She will soon be decorating gingerbread houses with some of her students!
Trevor's back is steadily improving. He is off Advil!
Yesterday at 4:00 I was escorted by two neighbors, the co-reps for the Garden Villas, to a mixer party for newcomers. We were offered calamari and wine, and two new staff members were introduced. The Executive Director was there and introduced himself. The Marketing rep who got me into the villa of my dreams was there, as were many others I am starting to get to know. La Costa Glen takes its welcoming of new residents very seriously. I had dinner later with Antoinette, who is not quite as new as I am, and were joined by another couple. You never have to dine alone here.
Today there is a Town Hall meeting open to all. I will drop by and see what it is all about.
Beautiful warm sunny day here. Cold snap coming in the East. C'mon visit me!
Love to all, Val
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Yesterday was a very good day. Started quietly, but at 10:00 I went to the Brentwood Theatre, which was well filled, and listened to a presentation from the Day Tripper Tours. They have nothing to do with the travel club, but people at La Costa Glen love to travel so any opportunity is eagerly embraced. The Day Trippers specialize in door to door trips that get you back to your bed at night. They can extend to an overnight, but mostly, as the name implies, come back the same day.
They advertise some exhilarating options. Salton Sea and Saint Andreas Fault Experience....Getty Villa... NASA Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena...Parade of Lights Cruise in San Diego Bay...Master Chorale at Disney Hall...Infinity Mirror Exhibition...Yuletide at Yosemite...two day Rose Parade experience, go the day before and watch the floats being decorated, then listen to a Big Band concert and get up early to watch the parade. Fabulous!!
Then the cleaning lady, who comes every second week, cleaned my little villa from stem to stern. Then I Ieft for the Garden Villa neighborhood party and brought my 'treasure' to share. The theme of the party is bring something that is of great sentimental value to you and talk about it. I brought my mug from 234E the Bluff Road in Yokohama, and told the story of how I got to connect with the house I lived in just before I left Japan. A gentleman sitting next to me had been stationed in Japan, could speak fairly fluent Japanese and was married to a Japanese wife. We were instant friends!
There gets to be an embarrassment of riches. What do you choose to do? You can't do it all. Today the beach walk. Later a mixer for newcomers. I will report tomorrow.
l
The Superkid is standing all by himself! Not yet seven months.
They advertise some exhilarating options. Salton Sea and Saint Andreas Fault Experience....Getty Villa... NASA Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena...Parade of Lights Cruise in San Diego Bay...Master Chorale at Disney Hall...Infinity Mirror Exhibition...Yuletide at Yosemite...two day Rose Parade experience, go the day before and watch the floats being decorated, then listen to a Big Band concert and get up early to watch the parade. Fabulous!!
Then the cleaning lady, who comes every second week, cleaned my little villa from stem to stern. Then I Ieft for the Garden Villa neighborhood party and brought my 'treasure' to share. The theme of the party is bring something that is of great sentimental value to you and talk about it. I brought my mug from 234E the Bluff Road in Yokohama, and told the story of how I got to connect with the house I lived in just before I left Japan. A gentleman sitting next to me had been stationed in Japan, could speak fairly fluent Japanese and was married to a Japanese wife. We were instant friends!
There gets to be an embarrassment of riches. What do you choose to do? You can't do it all. Today the beach walk. Later a mixer for newcomers. I will report tomorrow.
l
The Superkid is standing all by himself! Not yet seven months.
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
The Batiquitos Lagoon 8:15 am
Brianne's husband has been dealt a blow! His mother died suddenly, and he and his brothers are gathering to attend the funeral and celebrate her life. Bri and David are setting off to pick up one brother, drop off Bri's dog with Heather, and hopefully see Mack who will be at Heather and Todd's at that time. I am not clear on the details, but it sounds like a hectic time for all. Been there. Done that.
This afternoon I attended a lecture from Scripps Encinitas doctor. They are the nearest hospital and they are where the emergency patients from here are sent. The lecture was a little hokey. Mind, soul body healing...we all go into a trance sort of thing. Not my thing.
The lagoon walk was pretty good. I had no one to walk with this time, so turned around when the clock said to do so. There was one Japanese lady who outpaced me. Otherwise I was the fastest walker. There are five species of herons, and many other birds. The Carlsbaddians take their nature very seriously, and all the species are documented along the path. There were many people enjoying the path besides us. Couples running with baby strollers, people running with dogs, all California fit and athletic, at all ages.
Trevor I have not heard from today. He is nursing a bad back, but driving Robyn to her grandmother's place in Bakersfield to talk to a probate lawyer.
Mack I have heard from today. He is on his way to an 'appreciation party' for his good work on the fusion project he recently completed! Good to know he is appreciated. He certainly is by me.
Jane reads my blog, and even more amazing, tell me about it! Nancy is improving and all seems to be well there.
Much love to you all, Val
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
Lagoon walk this morning, at 8:00 am, so I have to hurry. A Scripps lecture this afternoon on the mind and body.
Trevor is driving Robyn to Bakersfield today to help her with the legacy her grandmother reportedly left her. His back is slowly improving and should be fine unless he has an impact, which could break a weakened bruised bone!
Tomorrow there is a Garden Villa party given by a close neighbor. I am invited to bring a 'treasure' and share the story about it with everyone.
Hope you are all well. Love, Val
Trevor is driving Robyn to Bakersfield today to help her with the legacy her grandmother reportedly left her. His back is slowly improving and should be fine unless he has an impact, which could break a weakened bruised bone!
Tomorrow there is a Garden Villa party given by a close neighbor. I am invited to bring a 'treasure' and share the story about it with everyone.
Hope you are all well. Love, Val
Monday, November 6, 2017
Monday, November 6, 2017
Yesterday Andrew Mack came to visit. He was a little late, because his housemate had sprained his ankle, and Andrew very kindly drove him to the doctor and the drug store.
We did the Sunday Brunch again. They had a different menu. Really excellent turkey with cranberry sauce, gravy and stuffing! And tons of other stuff.
After that I showed Mack how to walk to the far shopping center, and access, through a hole in the fence, the nature trail that runs along just outside the La Costa Glen property. The trail, I suspect, was put in by the two towns, Carlsbad and Encinitas, before the shopping centers were built. It kinda comes and goes, in and out of the main streets crossing it.
We came back to Lemonberry and Mack mounted my white board behind the desk in the living room. This is my "office" where I now sit and write blogs on the desktop computer.
He also mounted my magnetic knife rack, and admired the professional way I had mounted the hat rack in the front hall, salvaged from the Mammoth house. (Daisy, you would be proud of me. )
Then Brianne called, and Mack and Maddox and Brianne and I had a long conversation. Sadly, this morning, Bri emailed that her husband's mother had died, they aren't sure yet of the cause. I will tell you more as I hear it.
Love to all, Val
We did the Sunday Brunch again. They had a different menu. Really excellent turkey with cranberry sauce, gravy and stuffing! And tons of other stuff.
After that I showed Mack how to walk to the far shopping center, and access, through a hole in the fence, the nature trail that runs along just outside the La Costa Glen property. The trail, I suspect, was put in by the two towns, Carlsbad and Encinitas, before the shopping centers were built. It kinda comes and goes, in and out of the main streets crossing it.
We came back to Lemonberry and Mack mounted my white board behind the desk in the living room. This is my "office" where I now sit and write blogs on the desktop computer.
He also mounted my magnetic knife rack, and admired the professional way I had mounted the hat rack in the front hall, salvaged from the Mammoth house. (Daisy, you would be proud of me. )
Then Brianne called, and Mack and Maddox and Brianne and I had a long conversation. Sadly, this morning, Bri emailed that her husband's mother had died, they aren't sure yet of the cause. I will tell you more as I hear it.
Love to all, Val
Sunday, November 5, 2017
Sunday, November 5, 2017
The Jazz concert last night was really good. They had 17 musicians, plus a vocalist who did one sone, "Just in Time". They started with Glen Miller "In the Mood" which set the tone. The musicians were, I gather a group of enthusiasts who do other things but like to perform at a very professional level. One soloist, the husband of the announcer, was a lawyer. Only two were really young, that is, under fifty. The pianist, a woman, was excellent. The music was not over amplified, the whole event was videotaped and shown on the two big screens, to be replayed for those who missed the concert. This is their tenth year, and I can see why they are invited back.
I took the tram over, and back. I wore a dress for the first time since I've been here. Nice to dress up once in awhile.
Mack is coming today, but he texted that he is taking his friend to the doctor for a sprained ankle. When he is clear of that we will go to the big brunch.
I have been putting up hooks and hanging pictures and organizing the kitchen so far this morning. Little by little its looking like home.
Clouding over. We might get rain.
Love to you all, Val
I took the tram over, and back. I wore a dress for the first time since I've been here. Nice to dress up once in awhile.
Mack is coming today, but he texted that he is taking his friend to the doctor for a sprained ankle. When he is clear of that we will go to the big brunch.
I have been putting up hooks and hanging pictures and organizing the kitchen so far this morning. Little by little its looking like home.
Clouding over. We might get rain.
Love to you all, Val
Saturday, November 4, 2017
Saturday, November 4, 2017
Yesterday I took the bus to Vons, mostly to find out where it was. The bus driver again carried my purchases to the door. Some people have lightweight wheeled carts. I will have to get one.
Then an appointment with Alison, the Fitness Manager. We scheduled a fitness assessment to see what my goals were, and the most appropriate classes, and use of gym equipment.
This morning I put in my check for the staff Christmas annual tip. We are not allowed to tip at any other time. The money is divided up and presented publicly to the staff at a ceremony near Christmas.
I watched the beginning lectures of a 16 week session at the Brentwood Theater this morning The sound and video is excellent, and the topic was well presented, "The Story of Medieval England" from the departure of the Romans to Renaissance. The PhD scholar of English (British) history knows her subject well and I look forward to the follow on lectures each Saturday morning.
I got my desk tidied, and some sort of a schedule put together. They throw paper at you like confetti, inviting you to this event and that. My new white board magnetic calendar will be put to good use.
This afternoon I walked the two mile loop around the campus.
Tonight I am meeting Antoinette at the shuttle to go to Catalina Hall to hear a Big Band Jazz Hall of Fame Orchestra. That should be enough for one day!
Then an appointment with Alison, the Fitness Manager. We scheduled a fitness assessment to see what my goals were, and the most appropriate classes, and use of gym equipment.
This morning I put in my check for the staff Christmas annual tip. We are not allowed to tip at any other time. The money is divided up and presented publicly to the staff at a ceremony near Christmas.
I watched the beginning lectures of a 16 week session at the Brentwood Theater this morning The sound and video is excellent, and the topic was well presented, "The Story of Medieval England" from the departure of the Romans to Renaissance. The PhD scholar of English (British) history knows her subject well and I look forward to the follow on lectures each Saturday morning.
I got my desk tidied, and some sort of a schedule put together. They throw paper at you like confetti, inviting you to this event and that. My new white board magnetic calendar will be put to good use.
This afternoon I walked the two mile loop around the campus.
Tonight I am meeting Antoinette at the shuttle to go to Catalina Hall to hear a Big Band Jazz Hall of Fame Orchestra. That should be enough for one day!
Friday, November 3, 2017
Friday, November 3, 2017
Here are some pics of the La Costa Glen Halloween event.
Today I got an email from Brianne saying it snowed there!
Maddox is not quite sure...
Life at La Costa Glen continues on apace. Yesterday I attended the annual Resident's Association meeting, where the new slate of twelve representatives were approved. They are the liaison between La Costa management and residents and comprise the movers and shakers of this community. I have two council members as close neighbors, and am awed by their dedication and community spirit. It truly is the best retirement community in the area and possibly in the country!
In the morning I went with a busload of people to the beach walk, and met some more enthusiasts. After we got back I attended a fitness class, stretching and balance. It was excellent.
At 4:00 pm I joined a group to walk over to the Forum shopping center for a glass of wine and conviviality. I walked back with a lady who has been here six weeks, (I only three) so we decided to have dinner in the Monterey dining room. I showed her my villa, and we met a very vivacious Italian resident afterwards in the lobby.
This morning I did laundry, went shopping by bus to Von's, had lunch at the villa, then went to a fitness orientation with Manager Alison.
This afternoon I plan to walk to Office Depot to try to buy a white board. Then I will have to figure out how to mount it.
Trevor hurt his back, but it is getting better, thank goodness.
Today I got an email from Brianne saying it snowed there!
Maddox is not quite sure...
Life at La Costa Glen continues on apace. Yesterday I attended the annual Resident's Association meeting, where the new slate of twelve representatives were approved. They are the liaison between La Costa management and residents and comprise the movers and shakers of this community. I have two council members as close neighbors, and am awed by their dedication and community spirit. It truly is the best retirement community in the area and possibly in the country!
In the morning I went with a busload of people to the beach walk, and met some more enthusiasts. After we got back I attended a fitness class, stretching and balance. It was excellent.
At 4:00 pm I joined a group to walk over to the Forum shopping center for a glass of wine and conviviality. I walked back with a lady who has been here six weeks, (I only three) so we decided to have dinner in the Monterey dining room. I showed her my villa, and we met a very vivacious Italian resident afterwards in the lobby.
This morning I did laundry, went shopping by bus to Von's, had lunch at the villa, then went to a fitness orientation with Manager Alison.
This afternoon I plan to walk to Office Depot to try to buy a white board. Then I will have to figure out how to mount it.
Trevor hurt his back, but it is getting better, thank goodness.
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Thursday, November 2, 2017
The Halloween Party at La Costa Glen was a sight to behold! There were resident tap dancers, all in costume, some zombies dancing, and the parade of costumes, some very original. There were prizes for the best and most original costumes, and a good time was had by all! Rum punch, wine, beer and soft drinks were available for everyone, free. I will post pictures tomorrow.
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
My lemon tree.
Lagoon Walk
This morning I got to the clubhouse by five to eight and the bus loaded about three people from our stop, and about four more from the other clubhouse. We drove on the freeway to the Batiquitos Lagoon where we all got off to walk on a picturesque dirt path around the lagoon. I walked with Karen again. She is tall and has a good stride. We passed a little museum describing some of the wild life around the lagoon. We saw several white herons, and there can be seen, I am told, a number of other birds; pelicans, terns and so forth. Its a sanctuary and no boating or swimming is allowed on the lagoon. It used to be sealed off from the ocean, and it got all smelly with debris and algae. They flushed it out, and now the tides clean it regularly. It is a very beautiful path with lots of semi tropical vegetation, and the ever present eucalyptus trees. It borders on a world class golf course. Karen told me the golfers used to put out water and apples by their gate for the enthusiasts who use the path for exercise, but they don't do that any more.
We walked about two miles, and just as we were turning around it started to rain. I had not brought a sweater so my arms and back (and hat) got quite wet. Back at La Costa Glen there was no sign of rain. Just 3 miles inland makes all the difference, which is one of the reasons I chose to live here.
Tonight is the big Halloween costume contest and parade. I will go and watch. 'Everyone' will be there!
Trev goes to have his injuries checked out today. Hope its nothing serious.
Full report tomorrow.
Love to all, Val
Monday, October 30, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Blog is back on both laptop and desktop. Finally figured out the right password.
Today the Landscaping people are back at work, so I will try to get them to plant my little lemon tree.
Yesterday Andrew Mack came over and we wasted no time heading for the Sunday brunch. It turns out that, unlike the regular meals, the brunch allows you to take food home in 'doggie bags' so some people had three or four bags of food!
Mack and I explored the campus after that, and even walked to the street on a nature trail that runs on the outside of the fence, a two mile public trail open to everyone. It can be accessed through several gates along the La Costa property which can be opened by my gate key. My car has a sticker now that opens the main and back gates automatically. I have a remote button to open the garage door from the car.
Last night I put my trash out in front of the garage, suitably sorted into trash, paper and metal/glass. This morning it was gone. Tonight I put my sheets and a bathmat out for the laundry to pick up tomorrow morning. This Wednesday is not a cleaning day, but next Wednesday a lady comes to clean my whole place.
Thursday is another trash and recycle day.
I am getting pictures hung, tools and office stuff sorted, wires plugged in for recharging computers. At 2:30 I will take a break and go to a lecture on science and medicine.
Tomorrow I have been told I must attend the big Halloween gala when people come in elaborate costumes, starting at 7:00. Before that they serve a feast with such items as "Howling Good Chicken Marsala and Zombie Stir Fry"!
I got a welcome call from a Lemonberry neighbor introducing himself and his wife. He used to be the Mayor of Manhattan Beach.
Love to all, Val
Today the Landscaping people are back at work, so I will try to get them to plant my little lemon tree.
Yesterday Andrew Mack came over and we wasted no time heading for the Sunday brunch. It turns out that, unlike the regular meals, the brunch allows you to take food home in 'doggie bags' so some people had three or four bags of food!
Mack and I explored the campus after that, and even walked to the street on a nature trail that runs on the outside of the fence, a two mile public trail open to everyone. It can be accessed through several gates along the La Costa property which can be opened by my gate key. My car has a sticker now that opens the main and back gates automatically. I have a remote button to open the garage door from the car.
Last night I put my trash out in front of the garage, suitably sorted into trash, paper and metal/glass. This morning it was gone. Tonight I put my sheets and a bathmat out for the laundry to pick up tomorrow morning. This Wednesday is not a cleaning day, but next Wednesday a lady comes to clean my whole place.
Thursday is another trash and recycle day.
I am getting pictures hung, tools and office stuff sorted, wires plugged in for recharging computers. At 2:30 I will take a break and go to a lecture on science and medicine.
Tomorrow I have been told I must attend the big Halloween gala when people come in elaborate costumes, starting at 7:00. Before that they serve a feast with such items as "Howling Good Chicken Marsala and Zombie Stir Fry"!
I got a welcome call from a Lemonberry neighbor introducing himself and his wife. He used to be the Mayor of Manhattan Beach.
Love to all, Val
Sunday, October 29, 2017
Sunday, October 29 2017
I realize I can write my blog on the laptop, but for some strange reason, not on my desktop!
Well, so be it.
Yesterday I did some picture hanging, but also went out in the car to Armstrong's nursery to buy a Myers lemon tree. I even got it home, with other stuff, and lugged everything from the car to the back yard. I need a dolly. The tree will be planted Monday, but the other stuff, herbs and strawberries, I planted myself, mostly in pots, but some right in the ground. I also got some paperwhites and put them in a decorative dish. They will stay in a cool, dark place for one month, then hopefully they will start to bloom by December. I also got narcissus, but they will be 'forced' later.
In the evening I went to the other clubhouse to Catalina Hall where a very good trio played dance music. I was sitting by myself at a table, and a lady from the next table asked if I would like to sit with them. I was even asked to dance by one of the husbands! They are another group I would like to see more of. Active, friendly and enjoying life. About thirty people showed up, mostly couples, but some single women. No alcohol. I left a bit early, and one woman asked if I knew how to walk back by myself. I assured her I did, but it was nice of her to ask since she knew I was a newcomer.
Today Andrew Mack is coming for the Sunday Brunch. He has been before, and thinks it is pretty good! Don't have too much computer stuff for him to do yet, but I will.
I have been here more than two weeks!
love to all, Val
Well, so be it.
Yesterday I did some picture hanging, but also went out in the car to Armstrong's nursery to buy a Myers lemon tree. I even got it home, with other stuff, and lugged everything from the car to the back yard. I need a dolly. The tree will be planted Monday, but the other stuff, herbs and strawberries, I planted myself, mostly in pots, but some right in the ground. I also got some paperwhites and put them in a decorative dish. They will stay in a cool, dark place for one month, then hopefully they will start to bloom by December. I also got narcissus, but they will be 'forced' later.
In the evening I went to the other clubhouse to Catalina Hall where a very good trio played dance music. I was sitting by myself at a table, and a lady from the next table asked if I would like to sit with them. I was even asked to dance by one of the husbands! They are another group I would like to see more of. Active, friendly and enjoying life. About thirty people showed up, mostly couples, but some single women. No alcohol. I left a bit early, and one woman asked if I knew how to walk back by myself. I assured her I did, but it was nice of her to ask since she knew I was a newcomer.
Today Andrew Mack is coming for the Sunday Brunch. He has been before, and thinks it is pretty good! Don't have too much computer stuff for him to do yet, but I will.
I have been here more than two weeks!
love to all, Val
Friday, October 27, 2017
Friday, October 27, 2017
Today Matthew is 21 years old. Today Maddox is 6 months old. Congratulations to both!
This morning I walked over to the Apple store and attended a presentation about arranging photos, especially for La Costa residents. It was well attended, with about 20 or so people, all computer savvy. A group I will look forward to getting to know better. They do this once a month.
After that I had a really fabulous rack of lamb for lunch with my neighbor Dorothy and her husband Milton.
Now I have to get to work, sorting etc. I also have to call Armstrongs to get a Myers lemon tree now that my stump is gone. The bigger the better.
Trevor fell, testing a rock climbing device, is a bit sore, but out in the Tesla getting more charge. So I think he is all right.
Andrew Mack will be coming this weekend to hook up stuff and enjoy the brunch. I think Trevor will come down next weekend. A friend from Manhattan Beach is visiting Nov 12 for one night, and Ian and family will stop by Nov. 19th to 21st for a visit. Fun!
In case you don't have it my address is :
2035 Lemonberry Lane
La Costa Glen, Carlsbad, CA 92009
My landline phone is:
(760) 704-6441 (let it ring 5 times to leave a message)
Cell phone is:
(310) 200-7251
Love to all, Val
This morning I walked over to the Apple store and attended a presentation about arranging photos, especially for La Costa residents. It was well attended, with about 20 or so people, all computer savvy. A group I will look forward to getting to know better. They do this once a month.
After that I had a really fabulous rack of lamb for lunch with my neighbor Dorothy and her husband Milton.
Now I have to get to work, sorting etc. I also have to call Armstrongs to get a Myers lemon tree now that my stump is gone. The bigger the better.
Trevor fell, testing a rock climbing device, is a bit sore, but out in the Tesla getting more charge. So I think he is all right.
Andrew Mack will be coming this weekend to hook up stuff and enjoy the brunch. I think Trevor will come down next weekend. A friend from Manhattan Beach is visiting Nov 12 for one night, and Ian and family will stop by Nov. 19th to 21st for a visit. Fun!
In case you don't have it my address is :
2035 Lemonberry Lane
La Costa Glen, Carlsbad, CA 92009
My landline phone is:
(760) 704-6441 (let it ring 5 times to leave a message)
Cell phone is:
(310) 200-7251
Love to all, Val
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Thursday, October 26, 2017
I missed yesterday, but will try to do a daily blog from now on.
Yesterday I took the shuttle to a shopping center and bought some stuff at Ralphs and Trader Joe's. I had two cloth bags and a roll of bounty paper towels when I got on the bus. The lady bus driver would absolutely not let me get on or off without help even though I had figured out how to juggle it all by myself. One of the ladies on the bus, who had been in LCG 11 years, wisely pointed out that if I fell the bus driver would be responsible. That made me realize I was being selfish by trying to be too independent in this facility!
I got a pleasant surprise in the afternoon. A couple I know from King Harbor Yacht Club were staying here overnight to firm up their decision to move here next April. I showed them my place, and it is exactly what they want. I am not sure they will get it right away, but I was lucky. These villas are in high demand. As one of my neighbors said, "I like a front door and a back door". I feel exactly the same way, as most of my childhood was spent in smelly apartment buildings, with noisy neighbors and the trash chute down the hall. Of course the soundproofing is much better today, and La Costa halls do not smell, but the memories linger...
Another good surprise came when I learned that Ian, Daisy and gang are driving down from Seattle for a quick visit before Thanksgiving.
A friend from Manhattan Beach has also promised to come, and I have reserved a hotel room for her, which includes breakfast. It is just around the corner from my villa.
Tomorrow I will go to the Apple Store to get a lesson on how to organize my photos. If I just learn to delete some of them that will be worth it!
Wendy goes back to Paris today, so we can talk again. The Canadian phone rates are so high we texted instead.
Phone, email or text me. I would love to hear from you. Love, Val
Yesterday I took the shuttle to a shopping center and bought some stuff at Ralphs and Trader Joe's. I had two cloth bags and a roll of bounty paper towels when I got on the bus. The lady bus driver would absolutely not let me get on or off without help even though I had figured out how to juggle it all by myself. One of the ladies on the bus, who had been in LCG 11 years, wisely pointed out that if I fell the bus driver would be responsible. That made me realize I was being selfish by trying to be too independent in this facility!
I got a pleasant surprise in the afternoon. A couple I know from King Harbor Yacht Club were staying here overnight to firm up their decision to move here next April. I showed them my place, and it is exactly what they want. I am not sure they will get it right away, but I was lucky. These villas are in high demand. As one of my neighbors said, "I like a front door and a back door". I feel exactly the same way, as most of my childhood was spent in smelly apartment buildings, with noisy neighbors and the trash chute down the hall. Of course the soundproofing is much better today, and La Costa halls do not smell, but the memories linger...
Another good surprise came when I learned that Ian, Daisy and gang are driving down from Seattle for a quick visit before Thanksgiving.
A friend from Manhattan Beach has also promised to come, and I have reserved a hotel room for her, which includes breakfast. It is just around the corner from my villa.
Tomorrow I will go to the Apple Store to get a lesson on how to organize my photos. If I just learn to delete some of them that will be worth it!
Wendy goes back to Paris today, so we can talk again. The Canadian phone rates are so high we texted instead.
Phone, email or text me. I would love to hear from you. Love, Val
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Tuesday October 24, 2017
I am substantially moved to La Costa Glen. I have only a few pieces to bring from Manhattan Beach and they will fit in Trevor's car.
My villa looks fairly tidy, but there is lots still to do. I have four visitors coming this morning at different times. Some neighbors, the Marketing Department coordinator, and a HR lady who rides around the campus on a three wheeled bike and will show me round the Glenbrook Assisted Care facility.
I have remembered to push the "I am still alive" button every morning, otherwise they will come looking for me. The laundry bag with sheets to be washed is outside my door. The cleaning crew come tomorrow. The trash goes out Mondays and Thursdays. Everyone says 'good morning' when you pass. I have walked to two shopping centers. I have the car in the garage. There is a coffee meeting every morning in the coffee bar, where people gather to say hello and share news. Everyone welcome. There is a new residents mixer where I will meet other newbies on Nov 9. I am invited to an Apple class by a resident who runs the computer classes on Friday. I have TV, internet and a landline phone required by law for safety in an emergency. My number is:
(760)704-6441
My address is :
2035 Lemonberry Lane
La Costa Glen
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Come and visit me. Love to all, Val
I am substantially moved to La Costa Glen. I have only a few pieces to bring from Manhattan Beach and they will fit in Trevor's car.
My villa looks fairly tidy, but there is lots still to do. I have four visitors coming this morning at different times. Some neighbors, the Marketing Department coordinator, and a HR lady who rides around the campus on a three wheeled bike and will show me round the Glenbrook Assisted Care facility.
I have remembered to push the "I am still alive" button every morning, otherwise they will come looking for me. The laundry bag with sheets to be washed is outside my door. The cleaning crew come tomorrow. The trash goes out Mondays and Thursdays. Everyone says 'good morning' when you pass. I have walked to two shopping centers. I have the car in the garage. There is a coffee meeting every morning in the coffee bar, where people gather to say hello and share news. Everyone welcome. There is a new residents mixer where I will meet other newbies on Nov 9. I am invited to an Apple class by a resident who runs the computer classes on Friday. I have TV, internet and a landline phone required by law for safety in an emergency. My number is:
(760)704-6441
My address is :
2035 Lemonberry Lane
La Costa Glen
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Come and visit me. Love to all, Val
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Sunday, September 24, 2017
The Countdown
On October 11 I will take possession of my new villa at La Costa Glen. I probably won't be there full time until I get furniture and essentials moved down and the Manhattan Beach house cleared out. I am trying to simplify, which is a complicated process. Some furniture and 'things' will go to Seattle where Daisy and Ian, and Bri and David can unload and hopefully use in their new homes. I will keep a little furniture and clothing in the MB house as I will be returning to it from time to time until I am sure I like La Costa. Then I will sell the MB house and start a completely new life.
I want you all to come and visit when you can. I can show you an interesting time in very comfortable surrounding.
Love to you all, Val
On October 11 I will take possession of my new villa at La Costa Glen. I probably won't be there full time until I get furniture and essentials moved down and the Manhattan Beach house cleared out. I am trying to simplify, which is a complicated process. Some furniture and 'things' will go to Seattle where Daisy and Ian, and Bri and David can unload and hopefully use in their new homes. I will keep a little furniture and clothing in the MB house as I will be returning to it from time to time until I am sure I like La Costa. Then I will sell the MB house and start a completely new life.
I want you all to come and visit when you can. I can show you an interesting time in very comfortable surrounding.
Love to you all, Val
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Villa of Dreams
Yesterday Trevor drove me down to La Costa Glen, to make a down payment on my new villa, and select carpet and tile colors. The unit is delightful, with a little patio in the back where I can grow things. (Pictures later.)
The unit is being fitted with new kitchen appliances, new washer and dryer and brushed nickel on the new light fixtures which I prefer to the old bronze color. I should be able to move in on October 11. Very exciting. You must all promise to visit me when I am settled.
Now I have to get busy and sort stuff.
Love to all, Val
Yesterday Trevor drove me down to La Costa Glen, to make a down payment on my new villa, and select carpet and tile colors. The unit is delightful, with a little patio in the back where I can grow things. (Pictures later.)
The unit is being fitted with new kitchen appliances, new washer and dryer and brushed nickel on the new light fixtures which I prefer to the old bronze color. I should be able to move in on October 11. Very exciting. You must all promise to visit me when I am settled.
Now I have to get busy and sort stuff.
Love to all, Val
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Thursday,September 21, 2017h
Trevor and I have just returned from a elightful trip to Ontario to visit my brother and his wife.
We rented a car in Syracuse and drove to Tweed, making the border crossing much easier. We also got to see a bit of upstate New York and Canadian countryside as the leaves began to turn. We had no rain the whole week we were there.
Jon is in good health, Sue is still recovering from a hip replacement but cooked us some of her wonderful pork ribs, and other goodies.
Jon cooks too, and made us English pancakes which I remember from childhood. They are very thin and eaten with lemon juice and sugar.
We visited some of their friends, and went to the O'Hara sawmill which Sue's grandfather homesteaded. It is now a museum and very worth a visit. He dammed the river above the mill which powered the saw, cutting beams, planks and boards for local builders. The Canadians are proud of their rugged heritage and gladly volunteer hours of time, money and expertise to preserve it.
Saturday afternoon we dropped into an outdoor bar for a beer and some excellent music, mostly guitar, harmonica and blues singing - regulars who drop in to perform for the pleasure of making music.
We visited two of their single women friends, both with their own farms, who live alone, but manage beautifully with the help of friends and neighbors.
Jon and Sue live on an isolated parcel of woods with a house of architectural quality sited by a river and rapids that make a delightful flowing water sound when you sit on the porch. Last year Jon built a sauna and hot tub and the year before a garage with an upstairs 'man cave' where he keeps tools etc. it is heated by a wood burning stove, as is the main house. Wood logs are piled everywhere, and he has a power log-splitter to make the firewood. Sue has her studio on the top floor with a view of the river. The whole place is spectacular.
I just got word that La Costa Glen has a villa for me! I have to work fast to move in at the end of the month. Lots to do!!
More later. Love to you all, Val
We rented a car in Syracuse and drove to Tweed, making the border crossing much easier. We also got to see a bit of upstate New York and Canadian countryside as the leaves began to turn. We had no rain the whole week we were there.
Jon is in good health, Sue is still recovering from a hip replacement but cooked us some of her wonderful pork ribs, and other goodies.
Jon cooks too, and made us English pancakes which I remember from childhood. They are very thin and eaten with lemon juice and sugar.
We visited some of their friends, and went to the O'Hara sawmill which Sue's grandfather homesteaded. It is now a museum and very worth a visit. He dammed the river above the mill which powered the saw, cutting beams, planks and boards for local builders. The Canadians are proud of their rugged heritage and gladly volunteer hours of time, money and expertise to preserve it.
Saturday afternoon we dropped into an outdoor bar for a beer and some excellent music, mostly guitar, harmonica and blues singing - regulars who drop in to perform for the pleasure of making music.
We visited two of their single women friends, both with their own farms, who live alone, but manage beautifully with the help of friends and neighbors.
Jon and Sue live on an isolated parcel of woods with a house of architectural quality sited by a river and rapids that make a delightful flowing water sound when you sit on the porch. Last year Jon built a sauna and hot tub and the year before a garage with an upstairs 'man cave' where he keeps tools etc. it is heated by a wood burning stove, as is the main house. Wood logs are piled everywhere, and he has a power log-splitter to make the firewood. Sue has her studio on the top floor with a view of the river. The whole place is spectacular.
I just got word that La Costa Glen has a villa for me! I have to work fast to move in at the end of the month. Lots to do!!
More later. Love to you all, Val
Friday, September 8, 2017
Friday, September 8, 2017
Earthquake, Wind and Fire
Yesterday an 8.1 earthquake shook Mexico, killing a number of people. Tomorrow an enormous hurricane will score a direct hit on Florida.
And the fire? Yesterday at Trevor's apartment complex there was a fire on the top floor. An apartment across the hall from him, directly underneath, suffered major water damage from the sprinkler system. The water ran down the walls, inside, causing the ceiling of Trevor's place to bulge. The hall carpets had to be torn up. Trevor was busy for most of the day, giving access to firemen, inspectors and the like.
An adorable Hollywood actress says its all happening because Mother Nature is mad at Trump, (and his supporters presumably)!
Japan Christmas (continued)
Christmas at 234E was as wonderful as other Christmases, although I did not quite believe in Father Christmas any more. We had a sparkling Christmas tree near the fireplace in the living room. My stocking was hung at the foot of my bed, however, because my parents wished to get another hour or so of sleep. I woke up very early, and in the dim light could make out a large structure that had not been in my bedroom the night before. It was a complete, miniature 'shop' with shelves stocked with little cans and boxes of food, and other items to buy. There was even a miniature balance scale on which to weigh produce, and some pretend money to give change to the customers. My father had had the whole thing specially made, and I was entranced.
Every year, at the very bottom of my stocking there was an orange. This was traditional, because oranges were a great luxury in Britain, only to be enjoyed on special occasions.
Food now, in Yokohama, was getting scarce. My mother used to gather my outgrown clothes and bargain for eggs in the marketplace. Sometimes we would go to Chinatown, which was a magical place of straw hatted coolies carrying pails of all kinds of things, balanced on their shoulders. We sometimes went in rickshaws, pulled by coolies trotting with head down in front of us. They allowed only one adult in each rickshaw, so I would have to decide whether to ride with my mother or father.
I wore gaiters. Little English girls did not wear long pants, but to keep our legs warm in winter we had gaiters. Mine were of brown leather, with a million buttons down the outside of the legs. I had a button hook and fastened each button with great care. We walked to Church on Christmas Day, I wearing my gaiters and a blue coat and hat to match.
We went to a nearby Anglican Church on Sundays, where I attended Sunday School. I remember a very dramatic movie about Christ, but not much else, except that Anglicans had a different ending to the Lord's Prayer. I was taught to say my prayers every night, kneeling by my bed with hands folded. The prayer went:
"Gentle Jesus, meek and mild, look upon a little child.
Pity my simplicity, suffer me to come to thee.
God bless Daddy, God bless Mummy, and make me a good girl, Amen"
As the bombing increased over Britain, my parents required me to add, "God bless granny", and other unfortunate relatives to my prayers.
Yesterday an 8.1 earthquake shook Mexico, killing a number of people. Tomorrow an enormous hurricane will score a direct hit on Florida.
And the fire? Yesterday at Trevor's apartment complex there was a fire on the top floor. An apartment across the hall from him, directly underneath, suffered major water damage from the sprinkler system. The water ran down the walls, inside, causing the ceiling of Trevor's place to bulge. The hall carpets had to be torn up. Trevor was busy for most of the day, giving access to firemen, inspectors and the like.
An adorable Hollywood actress says its all happening because Mother Nature is mad at Trump, (and his supporters presumably)!
Japan Christmas (continued)
Christmas at 234E was as wonderful as other Christmases, although I did not quite believe in Father Christmas any more. We had a sparkling Christmas tree near the fireplace in the living room. My stocking was hung at the foot of my bed, however, because my parents wished to get another hour or so of sleep. I woke up very early, and in the dim light could make out a large structure that had not been in my bedroom the night before. It was a complete, miniature 'shop' with shelves stocked with little cans and boxes of food, and other items to buy. There was even a miniature balance scale on which to weigh produce, and some pretend money to give change to the customers. My father had had the whole thing specially made, and I was entranced.
Every year, at the very bottom of my stocking there was an orange. This was traditional, because oranges were a great luxury in Britain, only to be enjoyed on special occasions.
Food now, in Yokohama, was getting scarce. My mother used to gather my outgrown clothes and bargain for eggs in the marketplace. Sometimes we would go to Chinatown, which was a magical place of straw hatted coolies carrying pails of all kinds of things, balanced on their shoulders. We sometimes went in rickshaws, pulled by coolies trotting with head down in front of us. They allowed only one adult in each rickshaw, so I would have to decide whether to ride with my mother or father.
I wore gaiters. Little English girls did not wear long pants, but to keep our legs warm in winter we had gaiters. Mine were of brown leather, with a million buttons down the outside of the legs. I had a button hook and fastened each button with great care. We walked to Church on Christmas Day, I wearing my gaiters and a blue coat and hat to match.
We went to a nearby Anglican Church on Sundays, where I attended Sunday School. I remember a very dramatic movie about Christ, but not much else, except that Anglicans had a different ending to the Lord's Prayer. I was taught to say my prayers every night, kneeling by my bed with hands folded. The prayer went:
"Gentle Jesus, meek and mild, look upon a little child.
Pity my simplicity, suffer me to come to thee.
God bless Daddy, God bless Mummy, and make me a good girl, Amen"
As the bombing increased over Britain, my parents required me to add, "God bless granny", and other unfortunate relatives to my prayers.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Lots of excitement. Hurricanes, nuclear bombs, new Royal baby, Dreamers, Nancy in the hospital recovering, incredible third quarter comeback for UCLA against Texas on Sunday.
But for me, mostly boring sorting and packing this Labor Day weekend.
Japan Story
234E The Bluff
When we came back from our 1940 trip to North America everything had changed. We no longer lived in the bungalow, No. 11 (Ju Ichi Ban) The Bluff (Yamato), but moved to a six unit complex, about a mile away. At No. 11 we had a married couple living in the back, to take care of all the cooking, gardening, cleaning etc. Now, no Japanese would work for the despised foreigners. My mother was able to find a woman with an illegitimate child of Japanese appearance, about my age. Jane had bright red hair, was disgraced, ostracized by European and Japanese alike, and was glad to have job. Her name was Jane Savory, her child, Setseko could speak no English. They lived in a room in the back.
I remember cars with big speaker horns driving up and down the Bluff, blaring in Japanese a message of hate against all foreigners. The formerly friendly Japanese on the street would now spit at us, and call us "Baaka".
"What does that mean?" I asked. "Fool," I was told.
I had a very nice room at the end of the hall. The bathroom was a distance away, so I had a 'chamber pot' under the bed, just in case. The toilet was a western flush design, with a big wooden box to hold water, released into the toilet by pulling the chain.
We had a living room with a fireplace, and a dining area but not a separate room, as in No. 11. My father maintained British standards throughout. We ate roast beef, lamb, turkey at Christmas with a knife and fork, but never, never Japanese food. The only rice I ever ate in Japan was rice pudding, which I hated.
"Oh, what is the matter with Mary Jane?
She hasn't an ache, and she hasn't a pain
And its LOVELY rice pudding for dinner again."
A retired couple by the name of Burnie lived in the apartment above. My parents became friends with them, and Mr. Burnie made me a beautiful varnished wooden box with a lid. I treasured the box, and packed it when I left Japan forever.
Chrismas
My father was a Mason, and went faithfully to his meetings wearing Masonic regalia which my mother thought very amusing. It may have been the Mason's, or at his office, but he came home one day near Christmas with a live turkey he had won! Certainly neither Jane or my mother wanted to kill, eviscerate, and pluck the feathers from this turkey. My father disappeared with the cage, to return with a plump, fully dressed bird he had managed to exchange. We had it for Christmas Dinner, along with stuffing, cranberry sauce and all the fixings.
But for me, mostly boring sorting and packing this Labor Day weekend.
Japan Story
234E The Bluff
When we came back from our 1940 trip to North America everything had changed. We no longer lived in the bungalow, No. 11 (Ju Ichi Ban) The Bluff (Yamato), but moved to a six unit complex, about a mile away. At No. 11 we had a married couple living in the back, to take care of all the cooking, gardening, cleaning etc. Now, no Japanese would work for the despised foreigners. My mother was able to find a woman with an illegitimate child of Japanese appearance, about my age. Jane had bright red hair, was disgraced, ostracized by European and Japanese alike, and was glad to have job. Her name was Jane Savory, her child, Setseko could speak no English. They lived in a room in the back.
I remember cars with big speaker horns driving up and down the Bluff, blaring in Japanese a message of hate against all foreigners. The formerly friendly Japanese on the street would now spit at us, and call us "Baaka".
"What does that mean?" I asked. "Fool," I was told.
I had a very nice room at the end of the hall. The bathroom was a distance away, so I had a 'chamber pot' under the bed, just in case. The toilet was a western flush design, with a big wooden box to hold water, released into the toilet by pulling the chain.
We had a living room with a fireplace, and a dining area but not a separate room, as in No. 11. My father maintained British standards throughout. We ate roast beef, lamb, turkey at Christmas with a knife and fork, but never, never Japanese food. The only rice I ever ate in Japan was rice pudding, which I hated.
"Oh, what is the matter with Mary Jane?
She hasn't an ache, and she hasn't a pain
And its LOVELY rice pudding for dinner again."
A retired couple by the name of Burnie lived in the apartment above. My parents became friends with them, and Mr. Burnie made me a beautiful varnished wooden box with a lid. I treasured the box, and packed it when I left Japan forever.
Chrismas
My father was a Mason, and went faithfully to his meetings wearing Masonic regalia which my mother thought very amusing. It may have been the Mason's, or at his office, but he came home one day near Christmas with a live turkey he had won! Certainly neither Jane or my mother wanted to kill, eviscerate, and pluck the feathers from this turkey. My father disappeared with the cage, to return with a plump, fully dressed bird he had managed to exchange. We had it for Christmas Dinner, along with stuffing, cranberry sauce and all the fixings.
Friday, September 1, 2017
Friday, Septembr 1, 2017
The flooding in Texas has been dominating the news. Here the local schools are collecting necessities, kits people can put together for disaster relief. I will see what I can find.
Boxes are piling up with stuff in them for Brianne and Daisy's new homes, and await news of when they can be picked up and driven to Seattle. Trevor and I will be visiting my brother in Ontario from September 13, to 20. After that I will call La Costa and see what they have for me. Once I start being an active resident I can start moving belongings down there, even if they have to stay in boxes for awhile. One step at a time.
On Tuesday and Thursday evenings Trevor and Robyn take volleyball lessons at the MB pier. Fun to watch. Robyn is improving rapidly and Trevor has got his skills back after a two year absence.
Alex goes back to MIT tomorrow after a summer in Paris.
Japan Story
School in Japan
The International School was the school of choice for the English speaking ex pats who could afford it. I dimly remember kindergarten there, and a little curly headed boy called Bruno that I thought very handsome.
When we returned from our summer travels to North America everything had changed. We had to move from the bungalow at No.11 The Bluff to a sem-detatched 6 unit house, 234E, The Bluff. This is today a museum, but that is another story.
Our cat, Brownie refused to be moved. The old neighbors, called to say he had returned, even though our new home was at least a mile away. We tried and tried to keep him but he preferred his old hunting grounds so we finally gave up, and arranged for the neighbors to feed him.
I attended the only English speaking school open, as the war clouds were gathering - a Catholic convent and school run by the Sacred Heart nuns. Because I was non-catholic I did not have to learn catechism. I was seven, the age at which Catholics are confirmed, so many of my classmates would learn to answer questions like "Who made you?". (Answer, "God made me.") I did memorize the rosary prayers, and was quite fascinated that each bead had to have its special prayer. "Hail Mary", "Holy Mary mother of God" and the "Lord's Prayer" that ended differently than the Anglican Lord's Prayer.
There were 45 of us in the class. We sat like little ramrods,and if we didn't the nuns were quick with ruler. The curriculum was rigorous. We learned cursive writing by the Palmer Method, lots of circles across the page, then up and down squiggles, line after line.
We had a singing class, and actually sang in parts, alto soprano and second soprano. We also had sewing class. We were given cut out pieces of white cotton in strange shapes that we had to sew together, French seams, to make undergarments for the immodestly clad natives in Africa.
My father walked me to school only part way, as it was only a short distance from our new home, and I was learning to be 'self reliant.' We put on running shoes and an apron, and ran around in the fenced in court. When the bell rang we put our shoes in a locker and lined up for class.
Every month, the three top students were awarded medals, bronze, silver, and gold.
There was a German girl who came about the second month I was there. She spoke only German so she did not get any medals the first month. By the second month she had won the bronze medal, and by the fourth month she carried off the gold medal, and never missed thereafter. I was a pretty good student, but she impressed me.
I also took piano lesson. My father had been a professional violinist and was an accomplished pianist. He assumed I would inherit his brilliance. I didn't. I would walk to school by myself on Saturday mornings, to take private lessons from a very plain and embittered nun. She did not make me like the piano. One day I was late! That was an unforgivable sin. She was looking away, but as I entered, she looked at me with such fury that her face was purple with rage. Without a word she got up and walked out! I dawdled home so my parents would not know what happened. I never learned if they found out, but the experience haunted me for a long, long time.
Boxes are piling up with stuff in them for Brianne and Daisy's new homes, and await news of when they can be picked up and driven to Seattle. Trevor and I will be visiting my brother in Ontario from September 13, to 20. After that I will call La Costa and see what they have for me. Once I start being an active resident I can start moving belongings down there, even if they have to stay in boxes for awhile. One step at a time.
On Tuesday and Thursday evenings Trevor and Robyn take volleyball lessons at the MB pier. Fun to watch. Robyn is improving rapidly and Trevor has got his skills back after a two year absence.
Alex goes back to MIT tomorrow after a summer in Paris.
Japan Story
School in Japan
The International School was the school of choice for the English speaking ex pats who could afford it. I dimly remember kindergarten there, and a little curly headed boy called Bruno that I thought very handsome.
When we returned from our summer travels to North America everything had changed. We had to move from the bungalow at No.11 The Bluff to a sem-detatched 6 unit house, 234E, The Bluff. This is today a museum, but that is another story.
Our cat, Brownie refused to be moved. The old neighbors, called to say he had returned, even though our new home was at least a mile away. We tried and tried to keep him but he preferred his old hunting grounds so we finally gave up, and arranged for the neighbors to feed him.
I attended the only English speaking school open, as the war clouds were gathering - a Catholic convent and school run by the Sacred Heart nuns. Because I was non-catholic I did not have to learn catechism. I was seven, the age at which Catholics are confirmed, so many of my classmates would learn to answer questions like "Who made you?". (Answer, "God made me.") I did memorize the rosary prayers, and was quite fascinated that each bead had to have its special prayer. "Hail Mary", "Holy Mary mother of God" and the "Lord's Prayer" that ended differently than the Anglican Lord's Prayer.
There were 45 of us in the class. We sat like little ramrods,and if we didn't the nuns were quick with ruler. The curriculum was rigorous. We learned cursive writing by the Palmer Method, lots of circles across the page, then up and down squiggles, line after line.
We had a singing class, and actually sang in parts, alto soprano and second soprano. We also had sewing class. We were given cut out pieces of white cotton in strange shapes that we had to sew together, French seams, to make undergarments for the immodestly clad natives in Africa.
My father walked me to school only part way, as it was only a short distance from our new home, and I was learning to be 'self reliant.' We put on running shoes and an apron, and ran around in the fenced in court. When the bell rang we put our shoes in a locker and lined up for class.
Every month, the three top students were awarded medals, bronze, silver, and gold.
There was a German girl who came about the second month I was there. She spoke only German so she did not get any medals the first month. By the second month she had won the bronze medal, and by the fourth month she carried off the gold medal, and never missed thereafter. I was a pretty good student, but she impressed me.
I also took piano lesson. My father had been a professional violinist and was an accomplished pianist. He assumed I would inherit his brilliance. I didn't. I would walk to school by myself on Saturday mornings, to take private lessons from a very plain and embittered nun. She did not make me like the piano. One day I was late! That was an unforgivable sin. She was looking away, but as I entered, she looked at me with such fury that her face was purple with rage. Without a word she got up and walked out! I dawdled home so my parents would not know what happened. I never learned if they found out, but the experience haunted me for a long, long time.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Yesterday I learned from Jane that Nancy Mackay, Robin's sister-in-law, had taken a really bad fall and is in the hospital. I talked to Jane and her Dad last night. Nancy will be transferred to a hospital in Nelson for continuing care. Contact Jane for more details.
Matthew came for a brief visit, but it was in depth. We discussed many things. Trevor and Robyn came over and we watched some cardistry. He is interested in the interface between computers and people, (which is what Wendy and Michel study), and may follow a similar career path.
He messaged me from the airport saying he got there OK, but he had to sit on the plane for two hours, then they let him off so he hung around LAX for several more hours leaving early in the morning. He had, even less time to get his stuff cleared out of the Seattle place and onto a flight for Boston the next morning. But he made it, and is busy settling into a new semester at Olin.
The other bit of news concerned my leg. I had this persistent sore on my shin, went to a skin doc who watched it for a month took a biopsy and said I should see a Dr. Fincher who could treat it. Yesterday Trev went with me to see Dr. Fincher, who has a beautiful new office in Torrance, but also works in Beverly Hills and Encino along with a team of other dermatologists. They have a very clever way of telling if they have got all the cancer cells. First Dr. Fincher cut a bit of tissue and analyzed it with MOHS. Half an hour later they read the results and told me I should get some more cut out. Another half hour, then good news, the MOHS system reports that he got it all. Sure beats waiting weeks for a biopsy.
Trevor had a glorious day at Space X on Sunday with his Hyperloop team, now called Paradigm, winning the fastest speed through the tunnel. Around 60 miles per hour. He is something of a legend, since he helped the initial team find a place to park, fed them steaks, and helped them with tools, electric feed etc. He chatted with with Elon Musk.
The flooding in Texas and Louisiana has added to an already extraordinary weekend.
Matthew came for a brief visit, but it was in depth. We discussed many things. Trevor and Robyn came over and we watched some cardistry. He is interested in the interface between computers and people, (which is what Wendy and Michel study), and may follow a similar career path.
He messaged me from the airport saying he got there OK, but he had to sit on the plane for two hours, then they let him off so he hung around LAX for several more hours leaving early in the morning. He had, even less time to get his stuff cleared out of the Seattle place and onto a flight for Boston the next morning. But he made it, and is busy settling into a new semester at Olin.
The other bit of news concerned my leg. I had this persistent sore on my shin, went to a skin doc who watched it for a month took a biopsy and said I should see a Dr. Fincher who could treat it. Yesterday Trev went with me to see Dr. Fincher, who has a beautiful new office in Torrance, but also works in Beverly Hills and Encino along with a team of other dermatologists. They have a very clever way of telling if they have got all the cancer cells. First Dr. Fincher cut a bit of tissue and analyzed it with MOHS. Half an hour later they read the results and told me I should get some more cut out. Another half hour, then good news, the MOHS system reports that he got it all. Sure beats waiting weeks for a biopsy.
Trevor had a glorious day at Space X on Sunday with his Hyperloop team, now called Paradigm, winning the fastest speed through the tunnel. Around 60 miles per hour. He is something of a legend, since he helped the initial team find a place to park, fed them steaks, and helped them with tools, electric feed etc. He chatted with with Elon Musk.
The flooding in Texas and Louisiana has added to an already extraordinary weekend.
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