Missing My Quilt Group Peeps

Yesterday was Cinco de Mayo. I love celebrating with my senior groups each year. 

We get loud and silly, with our theme. Then we get thoughtful and I hear wonderful stories from many, who are closely connected to Mexico. No gathering this year. I miss them all and hope they're well.

Celebrating in California

Actually, this year I was going to miss my group celebration. Don and I were supposed to be in California, today. Five years ago, we were also in Laguna Beach, on May 5th.

It was strange to turn on the news this morning and hear that the Main Beach in Laguna, was open... after a weekend of protesting. I'm glad we cancelled.

Cinco at Home

​Don and I are pretty good at quarantine celebrations. We will celebrate anything. I just pull out decorations and we go from there.

Don and I didn't do the Mexican Hat Dance, but I made a hat dance happened... in a miniature form.

Dos Days of Cinco Celebrating

Don and I decided to celebrate Cinco, for two days. We have nothing better to do!

Weather was lovely, so we sat out both evenings.

Don wore his cactus shirt and I wore my embroidered dress, on the second evening.

We had tortilla soup on Cinco de Mayo and carryouts from our local "Ruthie's Mexican" on the 6th!

Cinco Zoom

But really, the main reason for a 2-day celebration, was to have fun with the kids! They were available on the 6th. 

So this evening, we toasted with our margaritas from OR, CA and TX! We had some fun talking and catching up, then we took it a step further. 

​"House Party-Quick Draw" on our phones!

Oh man, I am so bad at this! But, we're learning so much fun stuff from our millennials!

Silly Decisions

I'm overthinking everything these days. There's more time to think when you're sheltering in a quiet house, for 6 weeks.  

Don and I aren't juggling jobs or kids, or dealing with illness or job loss. If we were, I wouldn't be overthinking, I would just be doing.  Life is simple, so I waste time choosing coffee cups in the morning. What is my mug-mood, today? It's silly, but I'm grateful for simple decisions.

Seeing Real People

We've kept it simple and safe, by staying home. There are very few decisions to be made, when you don't have to navigate the outside world.

So I had my first face to face, in I don't know how long. I decided to call the exterminator for a problem. Then I asked myself. "Do I wear a mask? Is that what we do now?" It felt odd to greet the exterminator wearing a mask. At least exterminators wear masks anyway. 

Visiting

After 6 weeks of communicating with friends and family through technology, I made the decision to have a friend visit with me in the yard. I was surprised with how stressed I felt after that decision. How do we do this? Do we wear masks? How do we greet each other?

I sanitized the table and propped open the gate. I put on my mask and it felt horribly awkward to wave and not hug. We've both been quarantining, so we're probably not in danger of contaminating each other. But, I'm also just trying to do what's right. What is right?

Once seated, my mask came off and we talked a long time. It was a beautiful day and it stopped feeling like there was a pandemic in the world... except for the mask dangling around my neck.

I'll probably look back and chuckle about how concerned and cautious I felt, about meeting the exterminator or a dear friend who needed to talk. I might tease myself, "Wow, what were you really worried about?"

Or maybe I'll be glad that I took it slow and tiptoed back into the world, cautiously. I'm in no hurry.

Facebook

I cringe when I see angry Facebook posts, ranting about the Coronavirus Hoax. When people rant, that no one can make them wear a mask, I fume. I should stay away from social media, because things will get uglier as we started opening up states.

Ginnie

But if I stay away from Facebook, I might miss some of the positive posts that my friends are putting out there... like this one from GInnie. ​
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I've known Ginnie since 8th grade. I admired her artistic doodles on notebook paper, way back then. Now, I love how she's using her art, to share a little comfort  and wisdom.

Amy

My Friend Amy shared a post that also impressed me.
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​I met Amy in 5th grade, after I moved to Tallahassee. I remember doing "crafts" at each other's houses. I also recall trying to set up a craft sale of some kind. I've never sold a piece of art in my life, but Amy does!

I applaud these two for delighting me with their art. It was a nice surprise on Facebook. I have a mask order coming my way!

​Appointment Reminders

I kept my oncologist appointment in April and survived. Of course I took my Cancer & Coronavirus Kicking Donkey Mascot with me. Masks and healthy humor can help protect!

But now that the state is easing up on restrictions, I'm starting to fret over future appointments. I'm beginning to get reminders that I'm due for dental appointments and check ups... things that aren't really urgent. 

Emergency

I always dread doctor's appointments, but especially now. There are so many unknowns about safety. I'd rather just stay away from medical buildings, unless there's an emergency.

I hate knowing that Chali dealt with pain and fear, all alone. I hate it that we are far away and can't help. I hope no one else in our family has to step into a hospital, during these uneasy times.

​Lately, I've caught myself pausing now and then, when climbing a ladder to clean or nearly slipping on the stairs... I guess it's time for me to slow down and be more cautious. This isn't the time for any stupid accidents.

May Day Memories

​Today is May Day! I have fond memories from childhood. We delivered May Baskets to our friends in Iowa. In New York our school celebrated with the Maypole and dancing.

Yesterday, Don and I did a May Day walk, a day early. The weather was gorgeous and we saw lots of flowers. 

May Day 2020 in Texas

Today is gorgeous too, but it has a weird feel. Today is the day Texas begins to re-open the state. This makes me anxious because, this may backfire if people get too relaxed.
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​Today I was also a little sad, because May first was the day Don and I were supposed to fly from Texas to California. ​​

We canceled 12 unique and historic hotels. Some of the more obscure ones may never reopen. Sad for us and much sadder for them.

May Day Surprise

Today, in the early afternoon, I heard the doorbell. I assumed it was UPS, but when I peeked out I spied a little May Day Elf dashing away!

I rushed to the porch and hollered my thanks, to my dear neighbors! It felt good to be connected, talking across the yard. I was absolutely giddy with this sweet surprise! This is what I'll remember, about Pandemic May Day!

What Have I Read?

When we first started hunkering down at home, I had visions of finishing all the books, that are stacked and waiting to be read, in this house.

But, my attention span is worse than ever. I don't read much during the day and when I do, my mind wanders. So I thought I could get through some magazines. But the new ones do not help me escape.

Sleep Issues

I love pulling out a book at night before I sleep. But I end up reading the same page numerous times, before nodding off. I rarely get a really good night's sleep. That's not new. But having dreams with a Covid-theme, is new. No TV news in the evening, Beth!

So, I ordered a "weighted blanket" online. My 15-pound blankie with pink moons, is supposed to comfort me and help me sleep. I heard about it on NPR. It feels like the heavy drape you wear, when you get X-rays. But it made me feel claustrophobic.

So I used it in the afternoon, when I read in a chair. I picked a calming little book, about making memories. I hoped I would read a little and fall asleep. But I liked my easy little book too much. It didn't make me sleepy.

​Am I creating happy quarantine memories? Sort of.

Yahtzee for Two

Actually I love playing games with Don. We've been playing games together for over 40 years.

But, he usually beats me in the games that involve strategy. I need to win more, in Pandemic Times. I'm luckier with our games of Yahtzee, but I get tired of that one.

Game Playing in the Past

My skills are better with games like Charades and Pictionary and Cranium. But they require more people and we only have 2 quarantining in this house.

Actually it's not the games I miss, but the family members who like playing games! In 2005, Don and I hunkered down with my mom and Scott, to await the arrival of Hurricane Rita. On Mother's Day, a half year later, we had Heidi home from college and played some more. Love those home-time-game-memories.


Puzzle Time

We have tons of puzzles in this house and lot of goofy games, too.

Puzzles are perfect for quarantine time. Very therapeutic. You can work on puzzles  alone or together... talking or not... music or  podcasts or nothing.

Puzzle Sharing

It's actually been fun to see how many people are suddenly doing puzzles. On Facebook and Instagram, there are lots of puzzle postings.

What I really love, is that our kids are also working on puzzles, as they hunker down. Don and I actually packaged up a few we'd already done and sent them to the kids. How crazy is that in 2020, we have been chatting with our kids about puzzles. Strategies, problems with puzzles... favorite puzzles. These conversations crack me up.

​These are puzzling times!

Today, VP Pence toured the Mayo Clinic and didn't wear a mask. He said he'd been tested and doesn't have the virus. That's probably true, but how about wearing a mask as a good role model or to show your respect for those who wear a mask to protect you.


​New Rules for Houston

A week ago, Houston began requiring face coverings, in public places.

Last Friday they talked about curbside options. This Friday, non-essential stores will begin opening in Texas. It would be so much less stressful if everyone just wore masks! But I can see it already. I've seen angry reactions to Costco, requiring masks in their store. "I have a good immune system! I don't need a mask!" That enrages me! It's not about you. We wear masks to protect others from us. We don't know if we are carriers.
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Protest

And if you're going to go out there in the crowds to protest, because you want to go back to work... cover your face!

Or don't. But please promise that you'll tell your people, when you get sick! Maybe they will listen to you, when you tell them what it's like in the hospital.

Appreciate Those Who Do Wear Masks

I've hardly gone anywhere in weeks, but I've worn my mask to the doctor and to the Post Office and I will continue.

 

People Who Must Wear Masks

I'm especially appreciative of those people who wear masks, for 12 hour shifts!

I just wish the people who think this whole thing has been blown out of proportion, could spend one day, doing what healthcare workers do. Every time I feel a little tired of this Covid inconvenience, I think of my daughter's friend Jessie and her coworkers, offering their nursing skills in NYC. Jessie (in white) has dealt with mask bruises, along with exhaustion and heartbreak, but she manages to smile. Thank you Jessie!

The Best Masks

I'm planning on doing my part and wearing a mask in public, for as long as it takes.

I'm going to associate masks with good things, like new daddies and sweet squirrels at the Pecan Shop on TX-71!  XOXO

Science Class

Science was never my favorite subject, when I was young. But I've grown to appreciate science and scientists. 

My hubby-Don is a chemical engineer and both his parents were chemists. I have nothing but respect. Lately I've been missing my father-in-law, as I run across old photos and memorabilia.

Vaccine Virus

Years ago, Don ran across this tiny box at his childhood home.

Today, Trump returned to the podium and claimed his remarks had been "sarcasm". I so wish our president would leave the job of science to the scientists and leave the humor to the comedians. As a leader, shouldn't he put the health of the people above his playful games with the press?

Missing My Father-in-Law

While doing more quarantine cleaning, I found numerous patents with my father-in-law's name. He had 55 of them.

Don's dad has been gone many years. I so wish he were here and could tell us what he thinks about all that is going on in our world. He gave wise advice as a grandfather, back when our kids had infections and illnesses. I always trusted him and he was never sarcastic.

My Only Sarcasm

So right now, I'm listening to the doctors and scientists who I respect.

Texas will begin opening up the state in a few days. Trump is ready to get stadiums and restaurants full again. But I'm going to be listening to this guy for a while longer.

​Quarantine Family of 3

Sometimes I feel like Don and I are sharing our quarantine home, with Alexa. Most of the time, that's actually okay. She is a good sport when she answers our trivia questions or tells us about the weather.

But, in the evening I welcome Alexa's intrusion! We're cooking more now than ever and music has made it a lot more fun. One night, we turned on polka music and I almost killed myself. Polka-dancing on the bumpy slate floors, in our flip flops, is not safe. Then, after all our laughing and stumbling, I feared my shortness of breath was a symptom! No! We can't let Alexa's music lead us to the ER!

Morning Music

Don thought we needed an Echo Dot, (mini Alexa) in our bathroom.

It's become a thing. I never know what music Don will pick. And thank goodness, he loves a wide range. Some mornings I walk into the shower with BB King wailing away. Another day it's Woody Guthrie. Yo Yo Ma can ease me into a peaceful morning and  Frank Sinatra can get me humorously crooning along. I could pick my own tunes, but I kind of like it that Don has some fun starting our day.

Choosing My Own Music

The other day, I took on a huge cabinet cleaning project. I spent an entire day sorting, moving and scrubbing, inside and out. There's no way I would have kept at the tedious job so long, without Alexa's help.

One song led to another... musicals, symphonies, Irish jigs, tropical exotica music... on and on!  I found some old favorites and I discovered some new favorites.

Here are my new Go-To Quarantine Songs!

​My Tune to Sooth Coronavirus Nerves:  "Begin Again" by the Piano Guys 

My Quarantine Lullaby: "Slumber My Darling" by Allison Kraus, with Yo Yo Ma

Isolation Themed Song: "Waving Through a Window" by Ben Platt, from musical "Dear Evan Hanson"

I could go on and on, but those are a few fun discoveries for now. 

Tiger King!

For weeks, people have been sharing ideas for cooking and reading and TV binge watching. I actually like the idea that everyone is communicating their favorites. I jot down ideas, but I end up just going to my own lists of things to watch, read and cook. I really don't need all these tips. I'm not bored yet. But I do listen to suggestions from our kids. 

At the beginning of this whole crisis, our kids chuckled about the Tiger King docu-series. Suddenly, Don and I got hooked on the creepy, addictive, odd, thought provoking series. Suddenly everybody I knew was talking about it. I will always associate the show with the pandemic.

Connecting With Kids

Watching the show gave us lots to chat about with the kids. It didn't exactly lead to philosophical discussions, but some fun ones. 

Our Tiger King tangent, sent me on an old photo hunt. I pulled up these pics from our kids back in the 1990's. They have vivid memories of our visit to a private "zoo" in Oklahoma... called Safari Joe's. We determined that Safari Joe was not Joe Exotic from Tiger King, but we had a crazy time thinking about these similar places.

More Ideas from The Kids

Besides TV and movie suggestions, our kids and their spouses have given us good tips about meal kit services.

I still remember back when our kids talked about Blue Apron.  Don and I thought it was a millennial thing... something we would never do. But a month ago, we were suddenly asking them for advice. It was such a treat when the first box arrived with ingredients and recipes for 3 meals. Perfect for these Stay at Home days. We've had fun cooking together and sharing our accomplishments with the kids!

Zoom

It's been over a month, since our first Zoom with the kids. Zoom is just one more thing that those youngins have introduced us to. They've been patient with guiding the oldsters!

After answering so many questions about TV choices and Blue Apron and Zoom issues, the kids were ready to learn from us... or at least from Don.  

Uke Zoom!

The kids asked for a Zoom Meet Up, with ukuleles!  Don played the uke coach and sent some music and tips ahead of time.  

It was pretty funny!  We all fumbled along together! Our attempt at "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", needs a whole lot more work! But we had a fun time!

Again, this is something that wouldn't have happened, without pandemic boredom! Yay for the benefits of boredom! 

Don the Shopper & Chef

For a couple of years, Don has been our main cook. He likes the grocery store. I don't. He likes to cook. I don't.

Like most households these days, we are cooking and dining at home a whole lot more. So, I've gotten myself into the kitchen!

A wonderful thing has happened, in the last 6 weeks. I've actually started to enjoy cooking. I appreciate that we have food to cook. That helps.

Time

There's no rush. We've got nothing but time... to think about what food to buy, how to get it, how to cook it, where to eat our meal and what plates to use. 

I even think about which placemats we should use.  I dig through the forgotten pile of oldies and out they come.

Maybe I shouldn't waste so much brain power on these silly decisions. 

But it cheers me, in a goofy way. Especially when I drag out old dishes, like the bunny plate from an old set, that our kids used. And of course, we have to use our 40-year-old, Royal Doulton dishes. The dishes were wedding gifts, after all. Love the earth-tone colors of 1979!

Comfort Food

I'm in charge of comfort food. Whenever we're able to get a rotisserie chicken, I make a hearty bone broth. That makes me feel very domestic. I've recently had time to converse with some friends about all the uses for bone broth. I'm feeling extra healthy.

Using the Fun Stuff

All this At Home time, is allowing me to dig through the pantry, for under-used appliances.

I had a great time with the Spiralizer! Only, I lost the directions and I had to wing it. That glass of wine did not help. Luckily I didn't stab myself, while fumbling around  with potatoes, blades and stabber-things! 

Today, Don has been smoking a brisket in this crazy smoker thing. That's a little bit more exciting than banana bread! 
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 Oh boy, I wonder what plates we should use!

Molly
 
Sweet Molly hasn't been a part of our home for nearly a decade.

Oh how I wish she was still with us, to share our home, during these Shelter in Place Times.

Scott looks like he's torturing her ears, but she was happy in this photo. Molly's ears were like a baby's blankie. Stroking those velvety ears could lower your blood pressure in a minute.

Grand-dog Lola

Scott and Chali's Lola, hasn't curled up on our sofa in about 3 years.

She moved to California with her parents.

Josie

Josie was a little kitten when she first spent time in our house. 

Now she's a big girl in Oregon, with Heidi and Jamie. Don and I  have to get our pet fixes from text photos and Zoom times. 

Why No Pet?

People have asked for years if Don and I would get another pet. All my siblings have dogs. It seems like we should, but I always answer. "Not with our traveling." Most years, we've been we've been gone 1 week a month. 

With all my home time, I now have time to worry about pets adjusting AFTER Covid! And with the latest news, I now have to worry about the pets getting Covid! Yikes!

​There is no end to the worrying!

Today is the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day!

Like other important things, Earth Day is not getting the proper spotlight. But, I tried to turn my focus away from the pandemic and celebrate this lovely morning. ​

The elderly have been hit by this pandemic more dramatically than the young. But it's not just the disease, it's the treatment. We've heard horror stories about the shortage of ventilators, leading to heartbreaking decisions over who gets them. So my coffee time, in the great outdoors, made me fret over our elder trees and elder folks...

Earth Day Walk

So I told Don we should get our masks and go on a walk. We are allowed to do that!

It was cloudy and breezy and the air felt perfect.

We saw animals that didn't seem to care that it was Earth Day. They also didn't seem care that there was a pandemic.

​Turtles and Toasts

​The walking paths were nearly empty, but there were tons of turtles looking up at us from the bridge. We made sure to pull up masks when we spotted people coming our way.

Finally we toasted to the 50th Anniversary, with our water. I bored Don, as I do every year, telling him my memories of the first Earth Day in Tallahassee, Florida.
On April 22, 1970, my diary describes 100 middle school students, marching to a dump with anti-pollution signs. We attempted to clean up the filthy site, but we failed to make more than a dent.

Home to Reality

​At home the news brought us back to reality. The numbers Covid cases climb daily. 

Today 2.5 million have been infected and 177,000 have died. But the good news is that our earth is getting some breaks, as most of us stay home. Pollution is dropping, skylines are become more vivid and mountains are suddenly coming into view! I hope we all are learning something from this!

Cheers to Happy Pre-Covid, Mask-free, Earth Day Memories!

Grey Gardens

This odd documentary is one of my favorites, but I didn't watch, when it recently popped up on TV. I'm sort of drawn to unsettling films that amuse me and worry me at the same time. Like the daily White House updates... I'm curious, but I try to stay away.

4 years ago, Don and I watched Grey Gardens, during my "stay at home" chemo days. We didn't have 28 rooms, but we found ways to entertain ourselves.

Little Edie and her mother, lived reclusive lives in their derelict mansion, in the 1970's. They amused themselves with old records and lots of cats. Now and then, Little Edie put on a nice song and dance performance. 

During those months in 2016, I felt a little cooped up. Like Edie, I had hair issues and wore a lot of scarves. After watching Grey Gardens, I often let Little Edie's spirit inspire some fun. Don and I got ridiculously creative with my collection of colorful scarves.

Channeling Little Edie

During these quarantine times, I haven't been in the mood to watch Grey Gardens, but I've been thinking about Little Edie and her mother. They weren't staying home for Cancer or Coronavirus. They were home by choice and they found many creative ways to amuse themselves. Little Edie knew how to have fun with "costumes". She carried on with her chatter and dance moves, while her mom watched and sometimes complained.

Sometimes I just need to put on costumes and hats. One day, I greeted my friends on Zoom, with a mask and gloves.

Don has played more of the "Big Edie" role. He puts up with my outbursts. He gets it though. When you're stuck at home, you just find more things to play with. Most of our crazier moments have NOT been captured on film. But the "Dance Like Nobody is Watching" phrase has definitely been put to use. 

The documentary is a an odd one and a sad one really. I don't recommend it for comic relief during Covid-time. But it's a good reminder that we all can just get silly at home. Most of us don't have a documentary crew filming, so there will be no evidence to haunt our families in future years.
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Cheers to Little Edie and her mom!

Plastic Gloves!

All my daily observations come from TV and my morning runs. So my big gripe today is litter.

I run early, so I won't have to decide how to negotiate others on the sidewalk. Once I get past the closed school, everything looks normal... except this! Why would someone drop their contaminated glove on the ground. That's worse than dog poop. It's also a scary reminder of our world. People are concerned enough to wear gloves. Are they scared about contaminating their cars? It's not the first I've seen!

Missing

As I passed the Hope Tree today, I noticed something was missing.

I took these photos the day I added my own ribbon to the highest branch on the right. Today, I noticed it was gone. I guess I didn't tie it well enough.

​My Litter

Great! I thought as I ran on. My ribbon is now litter, blowing along the breeze... clogging the gutter... I littered!

Then I felt better when I remembered the words I'd written on the ribbon. The person who finds the ribbon will feel like me, the day I found a deflated balloon with a note inside. (that's littering too) They will be excited with their find!

And then I remembered how we are all fretting over contamination. Nobody will pick up my germ-y ribbon to see what the words say. Oh well, maybe a bird will use it in a nest. I saw that in a book once.

One Week Past Easter

We used to have tons of kids in our neighborhood. Obviously, all those kids from 20 years ago, have grown up. But this year more than ever, I've been thinking of the kids who live in our neighborhood, now. I was sad today when I took down the egg perched in our tree. 10 days ago, I put it there for kids to spot. 

That mini plywood egg, was part of a neighborhood morale boosting project. Families were encouraged to decorate a small egg and display it in a window or somewhere in the yard. It would give families something fun to look for, when walking or driving by. It seemed like a good way to show we were all looking out for each other. I was happy to paint an egg and put it out.

But when I ran on Easter morning, I saw very few. 20 years ago, there would have been more eggs. We had more kids then and less technology.
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Bigger Egg

After putting out the little egg 10 days ago, I put Don to work with the jigsaw. 

He cut out a larger egg and the next day I played Easter Bunny. I snuck out before my morning run and  put the egg at the entrance. Just something fun for kids to spot.

It took me a while to decide where I could securely prop it. Then I suddenly felt weird about putting this silly decoration out. It might fall over and people won't want to touch it. Everyone seems on edge about the rules these days. My decoration might blow over and become annoying trash.

Memories

I stood there for a  minute, feeling odd. And as I thought for a moment, old memories of the neighborhood entrance came to me. 

Hurricane Harvey, gave our entrance a different look. Our entrance definitely looked eerie after we and our neighbors evacuated.  Instead of being told to stay at home, we were told to leave our homes. There was lots of worry, but also lots of support. People in our area, are much better at knowing about how to deal with hurricanes, than pandemics.

Angels at the Entrance

I really only stood there a few moments before I decided to leave the silly bunny egg. It was when I remembered the colorful angels that used to decorate our entrance, every December.

For about 10 years, our neighborhood gathered at the entrance for caroling a caroling parade. The angels are pretty hidden behind our group in this photo. But they were a festive addition. Thanks Lorrie, for making them! 

Bye Bunny

So today, I headed out to retrieve the wooden egg. 

I did it early when no one was around. Again, I was sort of sneaky... mostly embarrassed. Why again, did I put that bunny-egg out? Kids are all in their houses. Probably no one saw it. Oh well. I guess I did it for me. It was something fun to do. The bunny egg is hiding in the garage, until next year. Maybe young families will move in!

Chats With Dad

I've been trying to call Dad everyday, since his assisted living community went on lockdown, way over a month ago. He never has much to talk about, because nothing is happening in his world.

Not much is happening in mine either, so we talk about the past. Good things... like picnics, in 1973. Dad is 91. We need a vaccine soon, so we can go on another picnic!

We never talk long, and I do most of the talking. I ramble about when we lived in Michigan or Florida or Iowa. He laughs at my stories. 

I've been watching plenty of old movies on TV and they remind me of lots of plays that Dad was involved with. It's actually pretty nice being able to ask questions about different shows, that I have only vague memories of.

I also didn't know that when Dad was teaching at U or Arkansas, he used to come home at lunch and play chess with my mom. I told Dad that I remembered my very first chess game...
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Zoom with Dad

Yesterday, I got a text asking if I was interested in having a Zoom call with my dad.

Poor Dad had no advance warning and seemed a little confused. Chris left her sanitized device, in Dad's hands and he fretted a moment. "What are they doing with this film?" I explained. Then I had him rotate the ipad, when I realized he'd been seeing me sideways for 5 minutes. Then I took him on a house tour!

I showed him the Sicilian Knight that our family bought in Italy 50 years ago. I held my cell's lens to the knight's face and I could hear dad laughing. He remembered the crazy puppet.

Photos...

​I "took Dad" into the living room and teased that I might play piano for him. ​

Instead, I showed him my favorite photograph, displayed on top of the piano. Dad knows the whole story of this wonderful picture of Grandma, when she was a child. The photo shows a scene in a silent movie. The crowd is gathered around my grandmother. Her character had just been hit by a car.

Outside

Then I stepped outside and showed Dad the palm trees, with their rustling fronds. 

I pointed the camera towards the pool and asked him to help me spot some June bugs. I told him that my quarantine boredom has led to lots of bug rescues. He laughed and told me the pool needed cleaning.

So that was a first! We both laughed a lot and Dad admitted it was a lot more fun than he expected.

I'm so grateful that the assisted living staff has worked to connect their isolated residents with family. I'm also grateful that Dad is healthy and able to chat! A month ago,  Dad's dear friend from his community, died of Covid. 4 more died after her. I am finally beginning to feel hopeful.

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Dr. P went over my labs and he reminded me to drink 64 ounces of water a day. But the main thing that I will remember of our appointment was his answer to my question.

​"How much more vulnerable am I to Coronavirus, because of my cancer history and treatments?

How much more vulnerable am I? I've peeked on the internet for answers, but saw so many different ones. I was scared to ask Dr. P, but now I'm feeling empowered with what I learned. He didn't say my history means nothing, but I'm happy to know that age is my biggest factor. Can't do a darn thing about that. 

Learning How to Shop

Even those who are mostly staying home, have to navigate this new way of living... during Quarantine Times. Getting groceries is something we're all dealing with.

First we just worried about how panic shopping would affect the supplies in stores. Then we had to decide what was the safest way to get groceries. We've had groceries delivered and today we took on curbside shopping. At least Don and I could go together and make an adventure out of it. We had our "just in case we need 'em" masks.

Curbside shopping isn't new at H-E-B. Some people have been doing this kind of shopping for a while. But I noticed an added sign, when we parked. It asked us to stay in the car.
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I insisted we put a "Thank You" sign in the back. Don thought that was kind of dumb, but I figured this is the time to "Err on the side of kindness". Don put a tip in a baggie and we tucked it in the back. Surely that's okay to do? I feel like we over-think every move.

Don and I were oddly nervous, waiting for our cart of groceries to arrive. But as soon as Asmita greeted us through the back, she put us right at ease. Her smile was evident, even with her mask. She loaded us quickly, but we still managed to converse about the beautiful weather and everyone staying healthy.

Thanks Asmita and all those workers, who allow us to get food into our homes!

Yesterday, we left our home, as if we were escaping from cabin fever. We drove 3.5 hours and ended up at our cabin... feeling sneaky and guilty and odd. It was strange seeing signs like this one, on the freeway.

Sunrise Beach

We reached Sunrise Beach, in the early afternoon. The little community of retirees and weekenders is usually quiet on weekdays in spring. But it was eerily quiet.

We didn't see another car as we drove into the "village". But we did see deer and a sign that reminded us that times are different. I felt that huge wave of guilt, that we are following our "Stay at Home" orders in two different places. That seems horribly wrong and indulgent. In Michigan, you're not allowed to visit your vacation home.

Work

The weather was beautiful when we arrived. I wanted to sit on the deck and read, but we had come to check on things and do "chores". Don got out the lawn mower and I faced cobwebs.

Then I faced dirtier jobs with varmint poop and dust and weeds and wasp nests... I usually hate these chores, but there was something cathartic about my cleaning frenzy. Honestly, there is something about Coronavirus anger that makes me clean like an angry fighter! Actually it's not the virus that angers me, as much as the president and how he's dealing with this. 

No TV

The best thing about the cabin, is that we have no TV. There are certain faces I can't stand to see on my TV screen. Our space felt peaceful and serene.

At night we had a fire and pulled out the old games. We have no internet, but we turned on the radio and listened to Austin's NPR station. Suddenly we were brought back to reality. Every show, every podcast was about Covid. We got out the old ukuleles.

In the morning, the skies were red. I can't believe we are heading home and not staying put. This is where we should be spending our quarantine time!

But how do you Zoom with your kids, if you have no internet? 

I was told about all the precautions that the office was taking and that there was no need to cancel. I still cringed. I was also told I could postpone. Or I do a Telemedicine appointment, but then I'd have to get labs done elsewhere.

So, I kept the appointment and this morning, I headed out with my mask and gloves. I also took my little mascot, Ms. Donkey. Yes, I'm way too old for a security toy. But I took this goofy friend to all my appointments in 2016. She helped me keep my humor and kick Cancer's butt. 

Memorial Herman

I parked at the medical building and approached with my friend. I figured, she'd help me kick Coronavirus' butt... if I got near any germs!  

I stepped inside the deserted building and headed up to the 4th floor. There was a table set up, outside the office for screening. I was asked health and travel questions and had my temp taken. I laughed with the very cheery woman, who was covered in protective clothing. I showed her my fine donkey mascot and she laughed with me, as she put a band on my wrist, announcing my 99.0 temp. Guess that wasn't too high.?

In the waiting room, I saw lots of reminders about keeping our distance. The other 4 patients in the room, wore masks. 

After an hour waiting, I was the only one in the room. The others were chemo patients, who had been called in for treatment. I eventually got word that I was going to need to make a Telemedicine appointment. There had been some miscommunication and suddenly I was being told the office was closing to all, but patients doing treatment. I get that. They are incredibly vulnerable. But I'd been waiting... I'd put myself at risk... I'd tried to cancel. I was a horrible, fretting patient who got her way. They rushed me back and took my blood. I thanked them and apologized and thanked and apologized. 

Blood Pressure

​I drove home feeling horribly guilty. Those patients and the staff are dealing with scary, stressful issues, every day. I begged them to do my blood work. Why didn't I quietly leave.

In a couple of days, I'll have my results and I'll have my Telemed appointment with Dr. P. I can find out just how vulnerable I am. 

Plus, I was relieved that they rushed me through so fast and there was no time for scales and blood pressure pumps. I used my own when I got home and I it wasn't exactly low. But I do feel a lot more relaxed, now. 

My goal is to stay out of all doctors's offices and hospitals for the rest of this pandemic!

It was early, so I wasn't surprised to see the empty parking lot. It was sad, knowing that hours later, it would look pretty much the same.

Notices

I walked down the sidewalk and studied the notices on all the windows. We've lived in this neighborhood for over 20 years. We've used so many of these small businesses.

I looked at the sign on Dr. Closs's office. It made me miss our old pets, Molly and Figaro. Now is the time of all times, when I most miss having pets!

The nail and lash salons were closed. No surprise. The liquor store has not closed down. I guess that's essential. Curbside liquor shopping. Crazy.

Now Open

I'm sad for these businesses and all their employees. There are so many unknowns. How long will they need to be closed? Will they even be able to re-open?

The surprising news is, that right in the middle of all these pandemic closures, we have a new store opening. It's been over a year, since Randall's Grocery Store closed down. Now, Al-Rabba is opening, with foods from Pakistan, African, India... How about that!

At 7 am, I was able to peek at the clean grocery carts and look through the window, hours before opening. I'm so excited to have a nearby grocery store, with new and curious foods to try. But I'm staying away from stores right now. Guess I'll have to wait a while.

We've Had Practice

Actually, Don and I have had lots of practice celebrating holidays, with just ourselves.  

We haven't had kids around on Easter, in a long time. But I was envious this year, of all the families who have been quarantining together. Our grown kids and spouses are good sports. We could have had a lot of fun with egg hunts and mimosas. 

Easter Run

I had no egg hiding or brunch making chores, so I headed out early for a sunrise run. It was nice to have the paths to myself. The sidewalks have been more busy lately.  

When it got a little brighter, I saw an Easter duck. He did not move aside on the sidewalk, so I lectured him about social distancing as I passed.

Bunnies...

It was quiet in the house, but we had some festive bunnies and eggs.

I always love a little holiday decor, but I had more fun than usual, with my silly eggs and rabbits, this year. 

For much of  2016, I felt the same way about holiday decorating. There were many months when I was anchored to home, due to cancer treatments. Putting out my whimsical favorites, kept things positive. So much feels the same now.

Tiny Brunch

We didn't exactly go all out for breakfast. We only had a few eggs and 3 pieces of bread left. I made French Toast. I haven't made French toast in forever.

I'm acting like we're barely getting by with food. That's not true. We're just low in the breakfast department. It was just right. I had lots of appetite left for jellybeans.

Concert from Milan

Our biggest daytime activity, was watching TV at noon. We watched Andrea Bocelli, perform live, in Italy. His 'Music For Hope' Concert, began inside Duomo Di Milano. He began his solo performance with 'Ave Maria'.

Dinner Guests

In the late evening, we got to work on dinner.

Before we sat down, I decided to invite some guests to our quiet table. I grabbed a few bunnies. They stared while we ate.

Easter Zoom!

At 9 pm, we set up the laptop and suddenly had family to share in the celebration! We've had a couple Zooms Happy Hours with our kids in Portland and Sacramento, but we had more this time. With Don's sister in New York and her son and family in Lake Tahoe, we had almost all the timezones covered!

Our gathering was something we probably never would have done, without the Coronavirus Shake-up! We would have all been busy with our own plans. What a hoot, with all 11 of us, gabbing together! 

I so hope there won't be many more holidays, tainted by Coronavirus. I especially hope that, for families who are dealing with more, than inconvenience. For those who are ill or have lost loved ones, there will be no celebrating. For those who are stressing over  financial worry and job loss, I hope that Easter and Passover and Springtime, has offered a good distraction.  

Cheers to all the family video celebrations/connections, that have popped up in the last few days! A first for many!  Hopefully the connecting continues after Covid!!

Social Distancing
​
We all know about social distancing. There are some creative ways to remind people.

My brother in New Orleans, shared a couple of good ones. 

6 Feet Apart at the Liquor Store

I saw this reminder at Spec's, on my 7 am run. It looks very Easter-y.

I'm not even going in stores, so I'm not sure how good people are being in the stores. I do see people on sidewalks and most are courteous. Some walkers cross the street to avoid each other. Ordinarily that would seem rude, but instead we all say, "Thank you!"  

Social Distancing at Church!

Easter is tomorrow and I'm really wondering which churches will be open. Our governor in Texas, has decided that churches are essential. Easter services are allowed, if they keep social distance. Do these churchgoers think God will protect them? Even if they have services outside, they could still be crowded!

These photos show the Easter service festivities in Florence, Italy in 1969. Our family avoided crowds, even though there were no pandemics, at the time. We watched from a hotel window. These images make me cringe. Luckily the Pope is planning virtual Easter at the Vatican, tomorrow.

Drive- In Church

The only church experience I would recommend, is the kind you attend in your car.

Don and I came upon this one in Daytona Beach, a few years ago.

We couldn't resist. We arrived on a Sunday morning, with our mugs of coffee. The grass filled with cars. I didn't spot any robes or pajamas, but I did see pets in cars. The music and sermon came through our radio and car horns honked, as a sort of "Amen!" now and then. It was a pretty fun experience.

This Easter, I think people need to worship at home. Save your Easter bonnet and white shoes for next year!