I originally posted this in Press, but have moved it, because I think it belongs here.

I have some sad news. Strega died suddenly, on October 15th. I got a Twitter DM to that effect this morning and have confirmed her passing with Sars.

Her memorial service will be private. Sarah will be organizing a Donors Choose project in her memory. If I hear more about that, I will post the particulars, here. Another TWoP alum has also said Susan was partial to Doctors Without Borders.

For anyone not on FB, we have another offer pending on a house. This is #3 (third time's the charm?): [link]

It's on the very outskirts of LA in a canyon (yes, fire insurance will be necessary), so a bit in the boonies and 25 minutes from our friends in our beloved Pasadena. It hasn't been fully updated, and we know up front that we'd have a big septic bill to take care of some deferred maintenance. But the VIEWS! And the huge six-car, partially finished garage! And the price is a lot lower than in our area (though, of course, our offer is far higher — in LA, the asking price is a starting point). We both really love the place and think it could be our home.

Our agent thinks we have a good chance this time, so crossing fingers.

My dear friend Barbara had a stroke last night. She cannot speak, but her grip is strong and her heart is keeping pace.

It may be a few days before she passes.

Please send easy passage to her and peace to her family.

She has been such a gift to me and this year of taking care of her has been an honor. I'm just so sad to be losing her.

Sorry to be a little vague but any positive thoughts or vibes that can be directed towards LA this afternoon would be awesome. We have had a pretty amazing development on the house hunt/purchase. Don't worry we are in good shape on things, this is more along the lines of things could turn out even better if a few things come together today.

We had a scary time in the wee hours of Monday morning, Dad fell in the bathroom while transferring out of his wheelchair. Apparently the way he landed looked awful but saved him from any broken bones or serious injuries. The aches and pains from it started hitting him yesterday afternoon, but by bedtime he seemed to have steadied a bit.

For those not on FB, I have some really good news! Drew and I have been close-lipped because we didn't want to raise hopes, but remember that canyon house with the gorgeous views? It fell out of escrow and the agent approached us. Well...we were still in the cancellation window and were able to back out of the other house, which we liked but didn't love. We took some HUGE risks in our offer because this is the house of our dreams, but WE GOT IT! We are taking it as is, knowing we have some repairs will have to be made and such, but guys...THIS IS GOING TO BE OUR HOUSE!

Link went POOF for now. If you want to see, reach out to me via email.

Mostly lurky me is here, shamelessly asking for conversational help.

x-post from FB:

So, it is push has come to shove time for me to negotiate a 'moving package' with my landlord. I am actually ready to make a change now that the friend I have been caring for this year has passed.

BUT, there are a couple of things that need doing before I can.

Sadly, my long-term attorney's have chosen the most crucial point in this process to essentially fall apart. Could I please have a conversation with a legal-adjacent Buffista to figure out how to express my needs/concerns to the lawyers effectively?

Suddenly my normal communication skills seem to have no effect on them. Their actions, or lack there of, are actively putting me in danger.

Plus, they have left their shoddy work so late that I have only 2 days to either get someone else, or convince of them what they need to do.

I have a tiny bit of money and a larger set of barter opportunities to offer in return for your help.

::Imagine a pleading expression::

My profile addy is good, or I have no problem having the conversation in the FB group.

For anyone who isn't on FB, we are closing on the house in the canyon (which did NOT burn down) next week! Yay!

I don't think she's been active lately (not sure because I haven't) but wanted to let you all know that Ouise died early this morning.

She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer just over a year ago and unfortunately did not respond to treatment. We are so thankful that she retained good quality of life this last year and was very much herself (aware and full of wit) until the day before yesterday.

Thank you all so much for being part of her world, I know she appreciated the friendships she found here (especially a few close irl friends)