Day 65

It’s a hot spell and I don’t enjoy it very much. Today I will go for an early walk, tend my little garden, and open the house to the cool morning air. Later there is a party at the senior center for welcoming Tari home from rehabilitation after her stroke, Jim, who delivers meals, birthday, and Peggy, the kitchen volunteer, going away to a new job. I like the connections and support we give each other. Good day coming.

Day 64

Strange event in the neighborhood yesterday with damage to Parmentier’s back fence and gate done by an injured animal. Unnerving. I didn’t hear anything but I know how dogs scream when they are trapped or hurt. Aside from that it was a good day. House would like to feel swept and dusted and I can do that with hours to spare while I look for something fun to do. Last nutrition class this evening. I have enjoyed the group.

Day 63

My energy feels stronger this morning. I was flat yesterday. I did contribute to my well-being by pushing the button on the dish washer. After an early walk, I’ll get ready for the senior center duty followed by a trip to buy garden soil to add to the containers. The chard, kale, and spinach all need a topping off after the rain has compressed the compost I used to get them started. I enjoy my little back deck gardens.

Day 62

I said I would help recruit new volunteers for the museum. The gallery, senior center, St. Vinnie’s, and others all have aging volunteers and no one is recruiting a younger group. Where are all the newly retired people? I found volunteering when my job was done and have felt that it is my second career. I have met so many wonderful people, used my skills in new ways, learned new skills, new languages, and had fun along the way.

Day 61

I connected by phone to two good friends, Margie on her birthday, and Gene, who is feeling imprisoned by his illness. That was the high spot of the day and I want to do it more often. Today I will be at the museum for a few hours. I like being there. The visitors are interesting and I like spending time with manager Karen. No one is allowed to be there alone. A sad necessary sign of the times.

Day 60

Today is bright so far. The rain yesterday was a dark wet cold one that brought me to the comfort zone for the PM. I insist on walking today and will pay the auto insurance bill on foot with the new orthotics in place. I’m restless and wandering around wanting something that I can’t yet name. Since I walk right by clutter without a thought, I’m guessing it isn’t housework. Is it interesting people? Or a new volunteer service?

Day 59

I did call and had my blood drawn by Charms, the wonderful phlebotomist at the office. The food as medicine process and the walking are doing a good job for my body. Today I will pick up my second set of orthotics. I have been lazy about changing shoes and not using them. They don’t help my posture if I don’t have them in my shoes. Senior center duty on Thursday means Boondock Band. It means a noisy duty.