3196

Festive fete is past and a repast. There were seven of us. Several people were not feeling all that well. Food was an act of love though and the stuff I brought went over well. There was Egg Nog ice cream, Cool Whip, Ciabatta with Parmesan topping, and a pecan pie. Other foods were beets, salad, yams, Cornish Game Hens, and dressing. Oh, yes! A pumpkin pie made with cream!

I went to Pilates class this morning and then went shopping for the fete items. We ended up not eating until around 2:30 and skipping a meal was noticeable to my system. I'm still not fully fed and settled. Not sure what's happening with all the people still here and stumbling about. It's getting late and a couple of people are still hovering. I thought they were heading home after the fete but not so. Perhaps they are staying the night. If so, there will be people up and about all night.

I've set aside tomorrow to get up to speed on all that I have to do to prepare for the eye surgery and other tasks during December. I didn't get a green tea drink in the afternoon and I think I'm having a small caffeine withdrawal. I went through the afternoon without my usual bridge beverage.

Pilates felt good this morning! I can feel myself getting somewhat stronger. Now, if that were the only thing I had to deal with (exercise)--but life is not that simple! Guess it never will be.

My ex's brother was with us today (is still with us). He had a T-shirt that had a slogan "Life is Simple"--Eat, Sleep and Garden. I asked him if he had a garden. He said he only followed the first two activities. Real life is even simpler!

3197

Black Friday has come and gone once again. Shopping until they be dropping!

Had a sequence of strange dreams last night. I was in a place that looked old--like a stage setting of a bygone period. People were dressed as if they were from an earlier era as well. In one part of the sequence, I was walking down a street that was filled with people. Everyone seemed to be having a good time and enjoying themselves. I looked up and there was a shaft that extended upwards beyond the roof of the building. In the final section of the extension there was a fan rotating, the fan blades whirring. There was a man I knew strapped to the revolving blades--he was yelling my name, asking me to look up at him. People started looking up and soon there was a crowd watching him spin his spin.

The dream changed back to the street scene. I was with a woman and some other people. We all started to move off down the street. Several men in dark clothing started infiltrating our ranks, moving in amongst us. I realized that these men were going to attack each of us. The man behind the woman I was with reached out and grabbed her by her shoulder. She spun around and back-handed him across the face, and the battle began. We all seemed to be martial arts experts--the battle was very physical and ended up with most of the men in dark clothing hurt or damaged.

Our group then came back together and we headed for a nearby cafe. We entered the cafe and pulled tables and chairs together so that we were all seated. We ordered food and drinks, and proceeded to celebrate our being together and the battle we had just won.

I rested and slept a lot today--getting ready for tomorrow's festive fete and festival of food. I'm about 12 days away from going in for my eye surgery. I received a packet of pre-op information regarding what I need to do/can expect. The whole thing makes me nervous and anxious.

I'll be doing a Pilates class tomorrow and then will stop and pick up my stuff for the fete. It seems kind of weird, but the Pilates class is more relaxing than all the work would suggest. Pilates uber alles!

3198

Thanksgiving Daze! Went to a Pilates class this morning. Regular-sized class even though it was a holiday. Dedicated people! It felt good to do the class. Stopped and had a turkey sandwich on the way home--had to have something with turkey today--tradition! I think we are having Cornish game hens on our postponed fete this Saturday--think of them as turkeylettes.

Came back and took a nap, and then got up and went looking for a SB's. Had a green tea latte and one of their tasty cinnamon buns. After workout, food, rest, and green tea with treat, I'm feeling good. Pretty stable and quiet. No definite plans for tomorrow (Black Friday) except to not go to any shopping center--although the real crush will take place this evening/tonight/early in the morn.

MD finished reading the Thomas Steinbeck set of short stories, Down to a Soundless Sea. She liked them. I think that they are some of the best short fiction pieces around. The last story in the collection, Sing Fat and the Imperial Duchess of Woo, is a hauntingly memorable piece of writing and story telling. Truly, a master work! We plan on reading his novel, which is mentioned in the short story collection, and is now in print. He may also have other works in print by now.

Dinner time! I think my daughter made a turkey meatball soup. Have to taste the turkey on Thanksgiving Day--tradition!

3199

Daughter is back from vacation. She got in really late last night (early this morning). I didn't hear her arrive--she came and went like a ninja. MD didn't see her come and go either even though she was up most of the night anticipating her return. I'm surprised the dog didn't make more of a rumpus when she arrived. He's somewhat confused now--torn between having her return and his week or more that he spent under my vigilance. A dog's life--always new odors to sniff, new patterns to learn!

I went to bed around midnight last night and napped on/off until early morning--when I conked out. I got up and went to yoga class (small number of people, but a gentle healing class). I went by Annie's for breakfast/lunch (had their deluxe turkey sandwich) and came back and napped until I awoke around SB time (green tea latte today).

I'm sitting in the living room using the WiFi to post these notes. I'm starting to feel somewhat confined if I stay in my room--feeling like I want to spread out more. Will do the Pilates class tomorrow morning and enjoy a day of not doing since we are holding the family fete on Saturday. Yes, there will be a Pilates class on the official fete day--dedicated instructors!

It's overcast and gray today. Looking like it may rain, but probably not going to do so. Just a hovering of a covering that will chill the night and hide the light. Yes, it might!

I had an elaborate dream a few nights ago. I was a member of a flying club. We rented small planes and took them on flights to different places. We were like eagle scouts only older. We packed a small plane for one of our explorations, got into it and taxied to the runway. As we took off, another smaller plane zoomed up beside us and started challenging us for runway space. The takeoff pattern for the airport was a complex configurations of banks and turns that didn't leave much room for any errors or miscalculations. We entered the pattern with the small plane off to our port side. Our wingtips were nearly touching. Everyone started yelling and waving at the small plane's pilot, trying to get him/her to back off. The pilot of the plane ignored us. Somehow we made it through the pattern and took off on our designated route. Everyone wanted to get a hold of the small plane's pilot and pummel him/her for his/her actions.

There was a later segment of the dream where we had landed at our designated location and were unloading our plane. Several of the men in our party had gone to communications area and were reporting the small plane's description and dangerous actions.

3200

The dog and I worked out a solution to the return the thrown ball problem. I noticed that when the dog had the ball, and started to return my way, that he would veer onto a track that would take him to the back door. If the door was left open, he would actually take the ball all the way into the house. I shut the door and threw the ball. He charged after it, grabbed it, and took it back to the doormat outside the closed back door. I threw it again and he once again took the ball to the closed back door where he eventually dropped it on the doormat. We played this game for quite a while. He eventually went after the ball, and got sidetracked by some errant odor that he detected. He then dropped the ball where he stood and began his own private sniffing game. Later, on a subsequent outdoor jaunt, I recovered the ball and began the throwing game (with the back door closed). He faithfully charged after it and brought it back to the doormat!

Now does this mean that when my daughter returns to claim her trusty companion that I'll have to get up each morning and throw the ball with him? Is he trained to chase a ball at that specific time of day or am I trained to throw a ball around that hour?

Besides playing retrieve with the pooch today, I only made it out to grab a bite to eat. I felt like going someplace new and stopped at a small cafe that I had seen in passing. It turns out that the place is like a displaced East Coast kosher-style eatery. They serve matzo ball soup, latkes, and piled-high sandwiches. The place is a totally out-of-place phenomena! The sandwich I ordered was huge and came with soup, potato salad or french fries and coleslaw. My stomach is still gurgling and growling!

Tomorrow is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving Thursday--shoppers will rule! We're not celebrating the fete day until Saturday because of people's different schedules. Will be somewhat strange to not feast on the fete day, but what the hey!

I'll be heading to yoga class tomorrow morning, do a Pilates class on the fete day and one on the morning of the delayed fete day. I will probably throw a ball or two over these days so dog gets his workouts as well.

3201

I talked with my health plan people today and got some definitive information on what to do about the lack of good neurologists on my plan. I have a PPO (preferred provider organization) plan and that means that I can find a physician outside of the network as long as he/she is willing to go with my plan. Going this route means that I will have to pay slightly higher copays. In the worst case, I can just go see whomever I wish, pay for it myself, and bill the plan for repayment. This last option is not optimal--I may have to pay more than my plan allows and I have to eat the balance. Makes sense now but overall it is somewhat of a pain in the gluteus.

I had lunch (a bit late and I only had an apple for breakfast) at the fish and chips place down the street. It was excellent--not fancy but tasty, goodly portions, and lots of choices--combo plates of two or more seafood elements--shrimp, calamari, and other mixtures.

Daughter should be on her way back from vacation (not sure of her exact arrival--tonight or tomorrow?). I will be happy to give up the dog sitting role. This afternoon--and up until about now--I've been flushing and feeling wonky.  An afternoon green tea Frap seemed to help moderate those symptoms. After eating some dinner (some simple sushi), I'm cooling down even more and I'm beginning to feel better. Gazing out over the next two weeks or so I start to heat up again--lots of things going on, involving lots of people, places, activities and things.

Last night I dreamed that I was helping a group of adults create play activities for younger kids. There was a discussion about using popsicle sticks to make various sculptures. One of the team members displayed a simple but somewhat boring example. I described some variations of his basic structure that would result in much more interesting objects. The dream ranged back and forth over people displaying example ideas and discussing the merits/problems with specific items.

It got cool last night--I had to bundle up to stay warm.

3202

Sun Day! Beautiful day! Felt good to go outside today and look into the bright, blue sky and feel the soft breezes. Today was a quiet day here on the ranch. Got dog out into the yard with the tennis ball launcher--a jai-lei like instrument that lets me launch a tennis ball to the nether reaches of the yard. The dog zooms after the bouncing object, grabs it in a death hold, and takes it to another part of the yard. He's missing the final concept--returning the ball to the launcher. Oh, well! Can't have it all!

I've been going in and out of phase all day. I slept in somewhat late and felt bad for the dog and the fish--being kept in the darkness while the day turned to light. Made peace with the dog by doing the ball game with him. The fish don't have a concept of forgiveness--just light/dark and fish food floating through the bubbles.

I thought about going to the spa today, but did not do so. Just meandered around and about, letting the day fade away. Thought a lot today about what is it that I am doing, heading for? Can't seem to shift from my passive, wait-and-unfold attitude onto a more decisive, intentional path. I want to break the pattern and zoom in and focus--get things done, aligned, produced. But each day/week/month finds me at the same junctures, the same forks in the road--alternate paths I don't even see as I mechanically head down the same trails.

Here I go again! Down the same old road again! Counting the flowers! Watching the birds! Floating with the clouds! Dancing with the donuts! Singing with the trees!

I'm a little concerned with the upcoming week--a week filled with shifts and changes, holiday activities, noise and motion (instead of the quiet and stillness of the past week) and all that stuff! I've been dreaming intense, like-real scenarios--lots of detail, characters that I know, and feelings of things slipping away. Dream the dreams and they will tell you what they sing!

3203

Pilates today! I'm getting stronger even though I've only begun to do multiple exercise sessions. The two Pilates classes that I've been doing and the one yoga session are starting to show results. I have to add some resistance training--like the two per week classes I was doing at the PI. Also have to integrate my afternoon "down" period into each day's regimens. After my eye surgery is complete, I can add an additional activity (or several) in the open times.

Dog is reacting to me in a more positive way--he's getting used to me showing up each day and going through nearly the same routines. We played a couple of rounds of chasing and retrieving a ball over the past two days. My ex dropped by today to visit MD (my ex's mother)... good vibes between us. I feel a bit awkward with her (and rest of people living here) but I'm acclimating. I feel like I want to pitch in more with day-to-day activities (cooking, lawn work, chores, together time, and such) but also at the same time have to struggle to free up energy for such things. Right now, I go each day until I feel like I have to collapse, zone out, and stop all interaction. Plus, there is the cluster of upcoming activities (support group meetings, eye surgery prep and event, finding a neurologist, better integration with housemates, communications, and more and more).

Somehow, everything I'm doing seems to be random and not integrated--not focused on the key issue in my life--my symptoms and the healing of these conditions. I know that it can be done--I have a distinct belief that things can be reversed and put back in order. How, exactly, I haven't a precise clue, but the thought comes through several times each day--as does the sensation of well being. I need to figure out how to expand those isolated moments into a solid intention that overlaps all I do. Nothing more than that--nothing more!

3204

It's been a foggy day (inside my head) while outdoors it's been beautiful. I got up early and dealt with the dog and the fish, grabbed a bite of breakfast, and muddled through for several hours doing much of nothing. I started to head for the gym, but on the way decided instead to grab some lunch and do some shopping. MD had her caregiver with her today so I was free to meander--which I did very well. Napped for a short time after coming back from shopping--then headed for SB's and a green tea latte. The latte didn't help much with the fogginess and now it's rolling up on dinner time.

I had a detailed dream last night about being in an area where many of my old acquaintances lived and played. There were lots of parts of the dream that dealt with sexual preference. I was being taken around to various gatherings where other people that I knew were congregating. Occasionally, I would see someone who didn't want to be recognized as a person who might attend that particular event/party. One person in particular played out this scenario--HM one of my dance partners during the intense CW dance era. RLB was a chief organizer of my tour past old friends--he was having a great time seeing how everyone reacted, including myself.

I heard MD moving about--she had a busy day with her care giver and fell asleep when the care giver left. We are having a bit of a turf war regarding refrigerator space--trigger mostly by MD's forgetfulness as to what's hers and what's mine. My ice cream bars seem to mysteriously disappear, along with various items like my blocks of cheese. For the most part, this is not an issue--it just came to head yesterday and today as the unit was cleaned and reorganized. Not a big deal, really!

Going to zone out this evening! There's a Pilates class in the morning (rather early) that I plan on attending. Belly button to core! Belly button to core! That's the motto!

3205

The dog is starting to act more like a dog instead of acting like a guilty party. He actually followed me outside this morning with only minor prompting, and did his business by the dawn's early light. He also did a mini replay of the morning scenario in the afternoon. I think he's beginning to realize whose hand is feeding him--not some memory of who did so before. Pavlov wins again!

I made it to Pilates class today. It felt good, although after the class I had Indian food (very spicy) which seemed to stall things--I lay down and slept for an hour before heading out for my afternoon green tea latte. Two hours later, I'm starting to feel like I'm somewhat back on the planet--not just floating about in stupor space. The guy at the Indian place noted that I had skipped eating there last week. I guess being the only customer every Thursday makes it easy to recall who was or wasn't there!

MD had her caregiver clean up/out the refrigerator today. I had to move my minor stash of items to my daughter's cooler and then move it back. It was like a three stooges episode (MD, A and me) going in/out and to/from the kitchens moving things about. But the result is good--a sparkling, clean unit. Overall, MD and I are managing to keep the kitchen area in pristine shape.

The multi-day rain systems have disappeared (dried up)! Today was breezy but not much rain. Back to managing the sprinkler system manually--rather than letting nature take its course. Friday is on the agenda--the week has gone by quickly. Daughter's vacation is half over! Fun in the sun!

3206

Made it to yoga class today! Felt good! The issue with locating a good neurologist has made my exercise regimens more present in my thoughts. Tomorrow, I'll do the Pilates class and perhaps do a hot meal--I've been munching sandwiches so I could share some food with MD. Tomorrow, she will be with her caregiver and that will free me up a bit.

Managed to get the dog to go outside today--I had to bribe him with some cheese, which he snarfed up in a second. It's been raining nearly all day and evening with more promised. He was not all that happy to wade through the wet lawn, but he finally gave in and chased the cheese.

Heard today that the spa will hold classes every day, as usual, over the Thanksgiving sojourn--mostly morning sessions. That will be handy in order for me to keep it all going.

Began my eye hygiene procedures tonight--hot compress followed by a cleansing pad and a pat dry. In about a week, I'll build up to doing a cleansing twice a day and introduce a topical ointment to help clear any bacteria and such. In the final days before surgery, I'll also be using some drops. What a process for a 20-minute intervention! But the vision and eyes are important--very important!

Got a call from LL this evening. She'll be in the area next month and we might have a chance to get together for a visit while she's here.

Tonight is trash night--have to put out the garbage and recycling containers. Yard trimmings are next week. I just do what the neighbors do--of course if they screw up so will I--but what the heck, it's just a bunch of trash.

Didn't nap today (did rest in yoga class at the end). I did have my green tea latte and that helped me bridge the time gap when I might have taken a nap. But, no gap, no nap--thanks green tea latte! It's still early--only about 9:30pm! Fish and dog are in their night modes. So soon will be MD and me!

3207

Bad news and sad news today! Got a call from the neurologist's office that I wanted to use as my regular PD physician. The call informed me that the doctor wasn't on my medical plan. I went onto my plan and did a search for all the neurologists in a 30-mile radius who did honor my plan. The result--only seven (7) neurologists! That's the bad news!

The sad news is that I looked up patient reviews for these seven people. All but one is rated less than average; one is rated average (and he is the furthermost away)! Egads! There are probably dozens, if not hundreds, of neurologists in the region, but they are not on my plan. The person I wanted to enroll with is rated a 5-star physician! I'll contact my plan tomorrow and see if there is a remedy for this situation. I may have to sign on with one of these sub-par people so I can get my medications, but just not rely on them to provide good medical information or service. One person is near my PCP (he's a block away), which would make it easier to coordinate office visits.

It makes me grit my teeth to discover this limited resource situation. I'll just have to rely on doing my own in-depth research and maintaining my physical regimens.

Today seemed like a long day. I had to deal with the dog, the fish, and the sprinklers (it started to rain this evening). I also felt somewhat obligated to stick around more so than usual--MD and I are the only people around for most of the day. I feel a little odd just leaving MD here by herself (although her caregiver was here for several hours). I stopped by a deli on the way back from my SB's daily visit (green tea latte) and picked up a bagel with lox (and cream cheese, capers, onion, cucumber on a sesame seed bagel). I split it with MD for dinner. By doing so, she didn't have deal with making her own dinner--hopefully helping her in a small way!

Need to make it to yoga class tomorrow and Pilates on Thursday. Also must begin my pre-surgery eye regimen tomorrow as well. When it rains, it pours (or drizzles as the case may be)!

3208

Met with the Folsom PD support group today! Not a very large group, but an intense set of personalities. I was struck, once again, by the range of symptoms exhibited by everyone. Most of them had either heard of Dr. Thacur or he was their neurologist. I have to follow up and find out what is happening with my request for a review meeting with him. I'm alright with medications for the next month, but I need to confirm a physician before the end of the year.

Again, I felt that I was in good shape vis-a-vis the illness versus most who were there--and more who were not. The group's facilitator's husband is in a nursing home battling the final stages of the disease. It sounds like it's not fun--he's aggressive, hallucinatory, somewhat demented, not eating, losing weight, getting weaker and so on. She struck me as being at peace with it all--a solid, strong person with a reservoir of faith.

Came back hungry! Stopped at Raley's and grabbed a panini (ham and brie)--very tasty! No nap today. Had a green tea latte but didn't get a window to lay down and sleep some. Daughter is off on vacation. Like I said in an earlier post, it's just MD and me! (And the dog and the fish and the garbage and the sprinklers and the heater and exercising and food and...?)  Oh, yeah! And preparation for the eye surgery! And no doubt more!

Let the wild winds blow! Let them go! Let them go!

3209

Sundae Sunday! Woke up late--I was awake early, took my medication and went back to deep sleep! Ended up going to Annie's and enjoying a Western omelet with hash browns and a biscuit. That place is so out of sync with the times that it makes you want to go back for more. The waitresses call everyone "honey" or "darlin" or some other terms of endearment (except for the one guy waiter). Nearly everything on the menu is off of some blue-plate special menu of 40 years ago. Can't get enough of that old down home stuff!

I reset the sprinkler system today to only do 50% of what the programs say to do--if a program says sprinkle for a half hour it now only goes for 15 minutes. This was a simple solution to handling how the different programs are running. Just cut back on the volume/duration until I can puzzle out what the programs are supposed to be doing. I'm still puzzled by the wad of wires that are supposed to connect the timer to the valves.

Did laundry today! The washer/dryer combo installed here in the house works great for my every-two-week laundry episode. I have a moderately large load about every two weeks, and it's handled with ease, if you please!

Tomorrow I'm heading over to Folsom for a PD support group meeting--hopefully it's not inside the prison! Yes, it's that town of Folsom! The town that surrounds the prison that Johnny Cash made famous! Got a note from the pharmacy that my prescriptions have been filled (ordered this morning, filled this afternoon) and are ready for pickup. Fast turnaround this time! Also, am out of the donut hole--copay is minimal!

Daughter leaves tomorrow for a week's vacation! Will just be MD and me--the two senior citizens on duty for the next week! MD is 95 and still rolling! She has a caregiver who comes in three half days each week--otherwise she takes care of herself, her meals, and such. May we all be rolling as well when we reach her age!

3210

Failed to get up this morning! Missed Pilates class--and most of the day! Did get out to grab some lunch (Pantera wins the prize--a delicious Panini sandwich!). Shopped at TJ's, had a green tea latte, discovered that I had the wrong instruction sheet for the operation of the lawn watering system, ran some errands, napped, and more (or less). The place was ultimately quiet today--everyone except M and me were out and about.

I did figure out that I had the wrong crib sheet for the sprinkler system, and managed to discover how to shut it off. I'm not sure that the device is wired correctly--there is a wad of unattached wires in the connection part of the timer box! Is a mystery!

What will tomorrow bring? Flowers and everything? Bells that ring, ring, ring? Silence and whispering?

I'm really quite groggy now. Time to turn in and read a bit--then off to dreamland! For tonight! The stars are bright!

3211

Friday, fry day! Had a fried fish for lunch--actually a fried fish sandwich with french fries! Wasn't all that special (I went to Red Lobster). I got up late and didn't do a spa workout. There was a constant flow of traffic starting early for the next-door neighbor's garage sale. Plus A came by to assist MD with her chores and errands. And, it was chilly all day--MD complained just a short while ago that she was feeling the chill. I turned off the thermostat schedule and set the temperature to 72 degrees F. The only problem with doing this (or so I surmise) is that the heater will keep cycling on and off. This becomes bothersome once everyone goes to sleep because it awakens them as it cycles.

I've been dragging myself along today. I've come back from being out several times and fell asleep--even after my green tea break. I telephoned the neurologist's office and left a message that I wanted a consultation appointment. I may have to prod them to make it happen, but I'm about to order my final prescription for one medication I can no longer ask for without an OK from my neurologist. I also went by the pharmacy and picked up the eye cleansing materials I have to start using prior to surgery. That event is both a long way off (a month) and soon (what with Thanksgiving, support group activities, eye hygiene tasks, and exercising)!

The grandkid is back here for a few days and then her mother is off on vacation. I then pick up the pet (dog and fish) sitting obligations as well. I grow old! I grow old! I like my Frappuccinos cold!

Tomorrow there is a Pilates class in the not so early morning. I will go! I will go! Even if all is turned to snow! Good, healthy energy in that class--a bit difficult but good!

3212

Pilates and dental hygiene! Did both today and feeling wiped from the activities. Also had a heavy lunch at Annie's just for good measure. I slept well last night and was late rising. But made it to Pilates class with minutes to spare. Only 4 or 5 people in the class today. After grabbing lunch I came home and slept until it was time to head for the dentist.

The dental team is really friendly and welcoming, but their schedules are a bit off. I had to wait and was long in the chair. Hygienist was good--thorough and careful. She also gave me a laser treatment after doing a probing session and a cleaning. The laser is supposed to help inhibit bacterial growth--beam those germs to heaven! May that be the thing that flips my gum problems on their heads!

Again, I find myself sitting and watching episodes of TV shows--it's only about 9 o'clock!

The Pilates class feels good--it seems to be working on my core--making it stronger. Have to still do extra resistance training sessions like I did on Tuesday. Have to do it all! The only way to go!

Suddenly, it's Friday! Where went the week? Dental sessions (two), yoga (one), Pilates (one and one to come) and lots of sleep, many green tea beverages, several big lunches, and not much else. Can't seem to unravel why I'm so tired--why I need to sleep so much--even though I'm exercising, eating well, and am definitely getting enough rest! But, onward and onward! Into the mouth of the demon--into the fray!

3213

Awoke to the sprinklers gushing over the front yard--too early, too much, too wet! Have to get on that system and see how it can be managed better. That much daily water has to be costly!

Went to the Gentle Yoga class. The regular instructor is on holiday--the substitute was better in some ways over the regular one--her yoga poses were more gentle. I am so stiff though--stiff and not very flexible. Pilates class tomorrow and a dental hygiene session in the late afternoon. The dental team had a cancellation and bumped me into the open slot.

Had a good lunch at the Panera place--pasta dish with a tasty bread and a simple salad. They are a bit expensive but have a good selection and great pastries and breads. Of course, I came home and slept for a couple of hours. I then made my trek for my afternoon green tea Frap (today).

I got a mysterious call on my phone--a blocked and unidentified number. It began with a robo-voice asking me if I was me. It then asked for my birth date (to ostensibly verify that I was me). I just went silent and let the robo-brain fall through to its terminal state. It was clear that this was a phishing expedition, but it is worrisome that it referenced my health insurance--supposedly the call was from them to provide me with more information about my policy. This is, at least, the second or third time I've been called by this phony survey. Googling the number brings up other people who have been harassed by this robo-twerp.

3214

Went to the spa this morning and did a resistance workout. Afterward, I grabbed a meal at the Indian place. Their food is good but a tad spicy for the average eater. I can manage but that might be too much for the average Sacramento diner. I came back and dropped off to sleep--slept through the afternoon--got up around 4pm and took medication and went for a green tea latte. I'm feeling tired and a bit wonky. It's really quite early. Will head for yoga class tomorrow! And hopefully not sleep the rest of the day away as compensation.

It is so quiet here what with people out and about and no one around.

I had a moment of upset when I returned from the spa and lunch--I could not find my phone! I had it when I prepared to leave for the spa, but no sign of it upon my return. I didn't recall having it in the truck during my morning's outing. Finally, I called my number and there was a familiar musical ring--the phone was on the floor under the chairs at the breakfast nook. It had fallen when I had grabbed my bag as I left for the spa. Tough telecommunication! It's quite a drop from the top of the nook to the floor, but with the carpet as buffer the device had survived!

I have to look into upgrading my phone--getting a Smart Phone! Reluctant to deal with the changeover, but will have to be done though. No place for old technologies! The world keeps on moving!

3215

Veteran's Day! I helped MD put out her flag this morning. She served in WW II as a WAVE. She was on the island when Pearl Harbor was hit and lived there afterwards for a while. She's 95 and still going. About half of the houses on the block had flags flying today--no doubt a rough estimate of the number of veterans who live here.

I went to the dentist today. They took a panorama of images of my teeth and gums. They have a 3D device that takes 360 degree image of the whole teeth/gum layout. I'm to go back in about two weeks for a hygiene and they detected an old filling that needs to be replaced. Otherwise, I got reasonable feedback that my teeth/gums are doing well. They'll provide recommendations about any additional periodontal work that may need to be pursued.

The office wasn't all that busy--made me wonder just how well they are doing. I think there has been a big turnover in staff there for some reason. But, their technology is as slick as any that I've seen or been used in my sessions at Gentle Dental and Dr. L.

Had a huge lunch at Annie's--hefty and filling! I came back and slept, went out for a green tea latte and a pastry. It's early now but I'm feeling sleepy. May go to spa tomorrow and do a resistance session. I also need to pick up the eye cleansing materials I need for my pre-op eye surgery regimen. Always more things to do or get done.

3217-3216

Missed doing a post yesterday. I had gone to the Saturday Pilates class and after eating breakfast I felt buzzy and tired. I slept for a bit and went out to pick up a green tea Frap. That did the trick--I went back and my ex had already arrived. I did a marathon set of card activities with the grandkid! We played Go Fish, concentration, flip cards, toss cards and finally hide-and-seek (which she wanted to do with the entire 40 card deck--we did talk her out of doing that).  There were a few after dinner activities and everyone hit the rack. I watched Hawaiian 5.0 and found myself drifting away and didn't post anything.

I picked up a couple of to-do activities from my ex. I agreed to look into programming the thermostat  and the lawn sprinklers. I spent some time with the thermostat and got a basic idea of what is being asked for in order to set it up. I tried doing some of the resetting this morning and will do more when it's quieter here.

Got up a bit late this morning and played with the thermostat for a while. My ex, the grandkid and I went to the Mall to pass some of the time away. We ended up in the food court and the kids' play area. The grandkid did an energetic time bouncing all over the play area and interacting with the other kids (more like directing rather than interacting). There were several large climbing objects in the play area. The tallest was a mushroom. The grandkid wanted to make sure she was queen of the mushroom--she would stand on the highest point and not let others displace her.

I had a spinach and cheese Stromboli (which was surprisingly good). However, after a couple of hours I was starting to fade. We left and I grabbed a green tea Frap on the way home. We got back and the grandkid was still going. My ex had to leave and things got a bit chaotic as the grandkid had to go though her repertoire of modes that she is capable of doing.

The grandkid is about to disappear for three weeks--she'll be with her father--and my daughter will be off on a holiday vacation for one of those weeks. Things should be relatively quiet here and about--maybe I can get the AC and lawn system figured out during this period.

Dental checkup tomorrow--one more thing that I must deal with to get everything back on track. Eye surgery, dental work, exercise, see neurologist, house work, and--I'm sure there's more!

3218

Had a review session with the doctor today regarding upcoming surgery. We spent a lot of the time discussing drug interactions (Azilect and anesthesia in particular). It didn't look like they had run into this issue before--glad I brought it up. I got there early (because I didn't hear the correct time on the reminder or the time had changed). In either case, I sat in the waiting room for about an hour. I had taken my medication a bit earlier and it either caused me to flush heavily or the huge lunch I ate caused the flushing and such. (I ate at Annie's--their Friday special--BBQ ribs with lots of other stuff!)

Anyway, I came back somewhat blitzed--from the heavy meal, the long wait, only a short nap after eating, taking my ex to pick up her car, medication, not having my green tea on schedule, and general tensions surrounding daughter's plans to leave on vacation the week before Thanksgiving, plans for doing a Thanksgiving substitute when she returns, and the stress buildup around the eye surgery and general medical issues. Whew!

Plan on going to Pilates class in the morning--exercise (and food, and green tea lattes) keep everything on an even keel--or as even as a battered ship can handle.

Waiting in the waiting room today was depressing--lots of old, infirm people struggling to keep their lives going. Man next to me had an eye patch over his one eye. I asked if he had had a cataract fixed. He said no--that they had just done some exploratory work trying to understand what was wrong with his eyes--that they think it may have something to do with the leukemia that he was also battling! Hmm! He responded with an upbeat voice and an overall positiveness that contrasted completely with his issues. He also said that it's a bitch getting old! I have to agree!

I see the dentist on Monday and hopefully will hear something from the neurologist I've been referred to by my PCP. It would be good to touch base with him before doing the eye surgery--just to get any new information that might be relevant.

I slept well last night--almost through the whole time without having to make a toilet break! And if I remember correctly, I fell asleep earlier than usual.

3219

EKG today and all is a go for the surgery--assuming all is OK with eye doctor tomorrow! New PCP has good energy. He did what was needed to move eye surgery forward and also put in a referral for a neurologist (the one I requested). He asked me to do some movement/walking and concurred that I was moving well. It took some time to fill out the intake forms--my eyesight being what it is and the font being in 6 pt or less!

I finished up with doctor and made it to Pilates class. Class felt good--I seem to be moving better/stronger even though I've only just started with the exercise. I grabbed a bite to eat after class and came home and slept for a few hours. Did a green tea Frap and all has been well with the world!

Appointment with eye doctor tomorrow is late in the afternoon--after my usual green tea time! And also after lunch! Today, I wanted something simple for lunch. Ended up grabbing some sushi. Will have plenty of time in the morning to sort out what lunch will work before heading for the doctor's office. Actually, starting to feel a slight craving for soups--the cool Fall weather is being noted by my system.

Not very late right now but I'm getting fading signals from my body--it wants to go horizontal and let the muscles rest. Let the good times loll! Maybe be droll! Go for a roll! Or a midnight stroll! Lol!

3220

Made it to Gentle Yoga class today! Not exactly like Rosen Movement classes but it's an anchor point. May be able to get to Pilates class tomorrow on way back from doctor's visit. That would be ideal--not to miss that class which has also become an anchor point for me.

I ate lunch at a local Chinese place. They offer a huge number of luncheon dishes that are overflowing, tasty, and not expensive! It was actually too much food (rice, chow mien noodles, veggies, chicken, soup, and munchies). I had noticed the place on my way into the area but I just now got around to trying it out. There's an English-style fish and chips place in the same complex. They advertise no cholesterol (??) but don't see how that can happen. Will have to give the place at least one try to check it out.

Have session with my PCP tomorrow (early in the morn)! Ostensibly it is to set up an EKG as part of the upcoming eye surgery. But also have some other issues--referral to neurologist, the lipoma on my neck (its been more noticeable as I loose hair or keep hair cut short), old medical issues (occult blood, colonoscopy), urination frequency, PD and its impact on my system, tiredness, and so on. I hate getting old!

Dreams over the past few nights have been about upsetting scenarios--one involved coming into my room and finding that all my artwork had been vandalized. Another had something to do with sabotage of some project I was heading up. It involved people who I thought were my friends.

This evening I went through the materials associated with my upcoming doctor visits and such. I feel like I understand what's in front of me and so forth. Onward to glory I go!

3221

Went to the PD support group meeting in Roseville today. Discovered a few things. First, the meeting place is not all that far away--a short jaunt from where I live. It is a large group--perhaps 40+ people attending and more who did not make it today. Couple who run the group/meetings are obviously good people who are giving of their time and resources to make the meetings happen. There were munchies and water, plus some people brought their leftover Halloween supply. There were lots of canes, walkers, wheelchairs, grey/bald pates, and PWPs. I continue to vacillate between amazement and appreciation for people who are struggling with the illness and sadness/fear for where this ride is taking me. The people there today formed a full spectrum of symptoms from none to requiring help with everything in their lives. I know it is foolish but I see myself as not going where the illness wants to take me--I see myself otherwise.

Lots of issues were expressed and explored today--driving and keeping a license, medication, costs associated with the illness, interactions with doctors, and much more. My big achievement today--not having to leave in the middle of the meeting to go to the toilet! Meeting was scheduled to be 1.5 hours long (actually went about 1.25 hours--a long time for me not to have to go!

Came away from meeting with reinforced belief that movement and exercise are the two fundamental keys to my future condition. When I returned, I lay down for a while. While dozing off, I pictured me getting up in the morning and walking a circuit in the neighborhood. I've got a perfect loop with a drop and restore that will get the juices going/flowing/mowing!

This morning I went to the Country Kitchen and got a breakfast. They are OK, but Annie's is still the better place to go.

Again, it's awfully early by the clock times. And it's quite dark (where's the daylight we are supposedly saving?)! Gentle yoga tomorrow and maybe Pilate's on Thursday since doctor's appointment is earlier.

3222

Moon Day! Slow start in the morning! I was still feeling the effects of the time change. Falling backward! Yes, indeed!

I dreamed a complex dream last night--about establishing a technology business where part of the intellectual property was manifested in a collection of codes and passwords. Right now I don't recall any of the details, but I do recall how elaborate it was and the feeling of the interactions and confrontations.

I got up and made my way to Annie's. I had a huge breakfast that was more massive than tasty. I came back and fell asleep for a while. I got up and went for my green tea latte booster. Came back and slept some more after watching the latest episode of the Good Wife. Wonder what is going to happen to the storyline given the way it is evolving (associates starting a competitive firm and such)? Right now, the story line is rushing forward with lots of quick bouts between all concerned and a build up of tensions.

It's still so early in the evening--only 8:30pm by the clock! But the body time knows better and is already starting to fade or seems to want to do so.

May head to a PD support group meeting around midday tomorrow. It's up the road a bit but not all that far. The route takes me through some of the back country areas--more open space and vistas than density. The meeting is from 1:30pm to 3pm--finishes up around my green tea booster time! We shall see!

I'm in a somewhat eddy of action--a stasis until I complete the upcoming surgery doctor's visits, and such. I'm growing tired of just feeling tired but not doing anything to pump the flow. Time marches on but so does life!

3223

Welcome to the clocks falling back! It's made for a long day and an even longer evening. It's nearly 8:30pm (really 9:30pm body time) and I'm ready to kick it in but it's still so early. Spent most of the day with the ex and the grandkid. It was blustery and cool today and this evening. Cooler than I like!

We made a trek to the local Whole Foods--their buffet offerings are not as elegant or enticing as those in the PA's WF store. Nothing really exotic or unique--mostly ordinary items and comfort-style foods. Raley's has better selections in some ways. We also spent a few hours at a playground where the grandkid is accustomed to going. She was content and happy there and played for quite some time despite the cool weather.

Had a few out-of-time episodes with medications today. Took morning dosages later than usual despite the shift in clocks. Also was off some in afternoon dosage (didn't get my green tea latte until about 4pm body time). Feeling OK now but am a bit chilled by the shift in weather--will wrap up tonight to ward off the coolness.

Sleepy, sleepy! Feeling weepy! Not that creepy! In a teepee! Cannot sing or RSVP!

Nothing of substance planned for tomorrow. Must prepare some for doctor's appointments later in the week. I have promises to keep and millimeters before I fall asleep!

3224

Made it to the Pilates class this morning! Felt good! Still fell asleep after grabbing some lunch (found a good bakery/cafe--Panera). Had a panini with turkey and more, plus grabbed two decadent pastries.

When I got up from nap, I felt awake and good. Spent some time with grandkid (using the stud finder gadget and playing Go Fish). Had a nice dinner with everyone there. Salmon, wild rice and asparagus! Tasty, tasty!

Played Gin Rummy with ex and her mother--I learned how to play.

We rolled up early since grandkid was out with her mother. About to set the clocks back an hour! DST is backed off for now. The beat goes on!

I feel good right now. Felt a little sketchy earlier in the evening, but all is smooth right now! Smooth and rolling! Rolling and smooth! Life goes on, and on, and on!

3225

Fry day! Got up late today and never really seemed to catch up with the moving clocks. Didn't make it to the spa for a workout--wanted to sleep instead. Ran some errands and had lunch at the Country Kitchen--good plain food at comfortable prices. Lots of senior options! A bit like the CG that was back in Mt. View. It was not very crowded (in fact there were only a handful of customers) but that's true of lots of places in the area. Don't see how most of them are making it.

Doing laundry now--sort of late in the day but it's a good time to do it. Had my daily green tea concoction but it seems like its effects are wearing off. Perhaps I have to go to the large option (vente) but I'm not clear that it would help. I just feel tired and especially so after doing an exercise class. I find it easy to flop down and sleep for an hour or more at any time--even after just getting up in the morning. Sleep, sleep, sleep! Counting all the sheep! Never hear a peep! While I'm falling into sleep!

There's a Pilates class in the morning (10am). I'll give it a try. I have to get up and out to do so, but I've slept enough. I need to move and groove! Pilates makes the core go round!

Well, about time to start sorting things from the dryer. The dryer is drier than a very dry planet.