Day 110

Museum duty was quiet. Only a few visitors to break up the time. Conversations are interesting with us volunteers too. Max and I talk gardens, gophers, camping, and fossils. Today is housework, yardwork, and simple diversions like walking and chance socializing. I wish I had stories to write. I know my history is full of anecdotes and insights but they are stuck in there somewhere. Where have my words gone? If I was still writing to a theme would I generate a column?

Day 109

The BOS went past four hours and had interesting and contentious moments. I learn a lot about the county’s business and the supervisors’ behavior. The news of the recall made Gitlin even more of a bully and Berkowitz more of an attention grabber. Our harbor initiative will be on the November ballot. Then a brisk walk to Subway for a vegetable sandwich without sauce and a quiet afternoon. These long sitting spells are not good for me. I have to stretch and walk.

Day 108

The Democratic committee meeting was three hours long! I feel stuffed full of information and know I have a lot to learn to be useful to the group and the community. Today is the board of Supervisors meeting and many committee members will be there to support the harbor initiative. The recall of the two obstructers will also be evident as will our two election winners. Lots of watering and weeding are needed right here in my garden. It’s a metaphor for life.

Day 107

I enjoyed the church service and the chatty coffee hour. Went home for 45 minutes and then back for the meeting. Karen had piles of old, 1939 to 1957, copies of Life magazine. We browsed and shared articles. Another friendly group plus food. Besides a Dem committee later, no agenda. I always have yard and garden chores that I enjoy. I get to say wow about how everything is growing. Pickable produce already. Simple pleasures make it fun to get out of bed.

Day 106

Many walks and naps yesterday and I dropped the burdens that aren’t mine to carry. I know that  I am human and a mother. It is in my rule to put family close to the top of the priority list and I do know when to back off. Today my little Episcopal band will attend the service at the Methodist Church. I’ve been curious about their pastor, a young millennial woman who preaches social justice. Later I’ll attend the Historical Society general meeting.

Day 105

The rain feels good. Maybe the lawn will stay green for another week. Karen worked on my shoulders for a long time as I felt that I’m carrying Hollie on my back. I worry about her and there is nothing I can do to lighten her situation. A mean sick husband is outside of my bag of tricks. I keep reminding myself that she has chosen to live like she is living. We all choose. Every day we choose again. I choose peace.

Day 104

The stories bring stories. Yesterday we went from collecting rocks, voting experiences, neighborhood descriptives, poetry, dogs and cats, and aging. The beans are up and I put the pole teepee in place for them. First peas appeared and reaching for the net.  I was late getting started and the vegetables are growing fast. Lots going on in the greenhouse but I must pause for a massage. It is an important part of self-care. Karen is holistic and intuitive about what my body needs.