women in black

 Two witches (Neti and Jeanine) and two spiders (Pat and your blogger) met to celebrate Halloween last night. We had a lovely paella dinner at Pat's home and we kept talking until very late (to me) and so today I scurry a bit and that's OK. Worth it. And behold, it's now November.

Memorial for Lee Brady

 We celebrated on what would have been Lee's 96th birthday yesterday. She was an amazing woman who wrote and acted in plays, had tons of interesting friends and really LIVED. I only knew Lee for a couple of years as she was part of our book club, but I feel so fortunate to have known her. In the top photo we see Lee celebrating her 95th birthday. I will remember her sitting cross legged in a chair remembering all sorts of details in the books we were reading and discussing. What a mind. What an inspiration. The memorial was at the Phoenix Theater on Mason Street ~ and very well done.

Dia de los Muertos

 I was afraid that with all the obnoxious ICE threats and activities that our colorful neighborhood would avoid Day of the Dead celebrations, but thank goodness that is not the case. The top photo is from inside my favorite gift store Luz de Luna and then the next is just one of the many, many altars in restaurants and shops. The parade will be Sunday night and I so hope everyone stays safe in these perilous times.

it all helps

 From the top: a long walk in the nabe with Jen and her two dogs. Sifting through happy memories and then some beautiful flowers from the Blogmaid. Amy and I will have a small, casual memorial for Ginger at a later date. And thanks for loving messages from friends. We are healing.

best friends forever

 I met Ginger back in the 70's and we were besties right from the start. Here is a photo of her in 2016, before Alzheimer's destroyed her. She died Sunday night and even though I expected this and even though I know logically that death is far better than how she was living, I am grieving. RIP my beautiful and funny and brilliant friend. 

just in time

 I have seen this wonderful play several times and it is always so much fun. Noises Off at the SF Playhouse provides the kind of laughter and release that we all need these days. The actors are terrific and I urge you to see this chaotically delightful play. I saw this yesterday afternoon after my house guest left for Palo Alto and yes, a very successful visit. Emma's Room rocks.

an overnight guest

 Susan is in Emma's Room for a night. So far, excellent. After lunch here (I cooked!) we went to the Minnesota Project and roamed around for a colorful afternoon. Dinner last night down at Precita Social and that joint was jumping. So glad they are in the neighborhood. Delicious black cod for Susan and a burger for me. In between all the activities? Talk/talk/talk.