I am going to Hawaii for the first time. I am from the Midwest (Michigan), We go to the Caribbean. I have been to many islands there. Now I have lived in California long enough to experience the primary vacation place here.

Off I go with Julie.

We had our annual Carrie and Erik birthday party at my house. Before dessert, we Facetimed with Jules and Isaac. It was great to have everyone there.

My family.

Too many suicides in this country, 132 a day. The issue is loneliness, though many do not use that word, unaware of the effect of not being around people. Invite people to engage in conversations. Get together. If suicidal, call 988.

I have been writing a feature column for the Alameda Sun for many years. They have decided to close the business for financial reasons. It was a valuable paper for Alameda with a strong relationship to the city for local news.

A loss for many.

I was invited to a poetry reading event at Ari’s school where he will read the poem he wrote, Prose Were The Days. Unfortunately, it is during the week at 6 PM. I choose not to make the drive then. I am inviting him to read it at Thanksgiving dinner.

The family’s gain, hopefully.

I stayed with Marjie in Michigan. One evening she wanted to watch the Michigan/Michigan State football game. We did. It was the first athletic event besides figure skating I had watched in a year.

I was her guest.

Went for lunch with a group of women. One did not finish her French Toast. She said she would not take them home. I told her I would. She likes to cook; I do not. The woman next to me said she was going to ask for them.

I won.

I am watching the weather for my trip to Michigan next week. It shows temps in the 50’s. I am pleased there will be no snow or ice.

There is climate change, however.

I spoke to Erik and he hoped I was looking forward to my trip to see friends in Michigan. I said, “Yep. In three weeks.” He said, “No, in two weeks.” He’s right.

Lucky we talked.

My car is in for body repair due to an accident. I was told a new rear bumper is not available. Part of the cargo out at sea. I anticipate finding my silver car with a red rear bumper.

Likelihood?