Friday June 26: I worked pretty hard today. It was one of those Fridays where more and more work came in as the afternoon went on. That's okay sometimes though. I'm happy for my job. I ran before work and walked afterwards. Nice but very hot way to start the weekend.
Saturday June 27: My belated birthday party. Because my teeth hurt so bad last weekend, there would be no celebrations. We sat on my patio, had donuts, and played lawn jenga. Captain Smiley did my dishes. It was great.
Sunday June 28: Marks my return to the gym. Because when I woke up at 9:30am, it was already 78* and I noped straight outta that nonsense. I joined the purple place right before all the drama went down. I'm not in a good routine there yet, but I'm seeing potential. Today I learned that bone conduction earphones will 100% not be right for the gym because they don't block out enough noise. In the evening, Captain Smiley made me ribs. Then I came back and legit cleaned my kitchen. I also washed my sheets and the blankets that live on my couch, so it was a productive day.
New clipping for the weekend: There was no official Pride parade this year, but Pride and Black Lives Matters finally became allies. That was way too long in the making.
25.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 25
Take care of my body: I ran 5 miles today. Also, I cut my hair again. This time outside, covered in a shower curtain, with a mirror. I usually require a re-do or two afterwards so we'll see.
Take care of my heart/mind: I got ready for my birthday/Pride party.
Take care of my living space: I also got ready for my birthday/Pride party.
Take care of work or economic security: Because I am a team player, I drove a long way to stand outside a patient's house and try to help sort out some business. Not sure if it worked.
A clipping or link from the news: A friend posted a similar recipe on Facebook, and then suddenly this video appeared in my RSS feed, about Beef Fizz. Emmy eats anything, so for serious, avoid this one peoples.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I went to Costco. They even had toilet paper.
Picture from the day: I don't think I took one?
I am thankful for: I had a nice outdoor chat with Mom and Dad while my shade sail was up.
Take care of my heart/mind: I got ready for my birthday/Pride party.
Take care of my living space: I also got ready for my birthday/Pride party.
Take care of work or economic security: Because I am a team player, I drove a long way to stand outside a patient's house and try to help sort out some business. Not sure if it worked.
A clipping or link from the news: A friend posted a similar recipe on Facebook, and then suddenly this video appeared in my RSS feed, about Beef Fizz. Emmy eats anything, so for serious, avoid this one peoples.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I went to Costco. They even had toilet paper.
Picture from the day: I don't think I took one?
I am thankful for: I had a nice outdoor chat with Mom and Dad while my shade sail was up.
24.6.20
COVID Diaries - Wednesday June 24
Take care of my body: I ran this morning; run/walk almost six miles. It was hot y'all. My mouth feels fine though.
Take care of my heart/mind: I had a lovely chat with Qat Lady and My Pooky Bear this evening. My Pooky Bear's birthday is today.
Take care of my living space: Not really. I didn't make it worse though. So, there's that.
Take care of work or economic security: I was oddly productive at work, while also being mildly confrontational. Just this side of the line so I can retain said employment.
A clipping or link from the news: No. Just, too many.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I did not shop today. Shocker, I know.
Picture from the day: Crescent moon?
I am thankful for: Having friends I trust to put me in my place. And keep me there.
Take care of my heart/mind: I had a lovely chat with Qat Lady and My Pooky Bear this evening. My Pooky Bear's birthday is today.
Take care of my living space: Not really. I didn't make it worse though. So, there's that.
Take care of work or economic security: I was oddly productive at work, while also being mildly confrontational. Just this side of the line so I can retain said employment.
A clipping or link from the news: No. Just, too many.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I did not shop today. Shocker, I know.
Picture from the day: Crescent moon?
23.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 23
Take care of my body: Had a lovely run this morning actually. Mostly running versus run/walk. My bluetooth headsets just, like, died. So I was glad my body felt so good, since I didn't have anything else to distract me.
Take care of my heart/mind: I scheduled a social distance birthday party/Pride party for Saturday. I will order donuts from Thirsty Whale, just because.
Take care of my living space: The shade sail continues to be a project. I did finally put away the tools and debris from the weekend.
Take care of work or economic security: I had actually a nice day at work. Super productive at home and then took a road trip at the end of the day.
A clipping or link from the news: All my races are virtual this year. Sigh. I told Olive that she could ride her bike and pace me for all of the races. I need to find a mile long down hill for the one mile. Maybe head back over to the Montreal Ave hill?
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I went down to my Co op for a shopping trip. I got bacon, four pounds of butter, mushrooms (those are soft, I can chew them), the only bottled lime juice I'll purchase, and I forget what else. It's an oddly specific shopping trip.
Picture from the day: I had a love run and this Egret was really great to watch on my multiple laps around the marsh this morning.
I am thankful for: I'm actually really enjoying the Percy Jackson series. I had a lot of time to listen to those books as I was stuck in traffic in South Minneapolis.
Take care of my heart/mind: I scheduled a social distance birthday party/Pride party for Saturday. I will order donuts from Thirsty Whale, just because.
Take care of my living space: The shade sail continues to be a project. I did finally put away the tools and debris from the weekend.
Take care of work or economic security: I had actually a nice day at work. Super productive at home and then took a road trip at the end of the day.
A clipping or link from the news: All my races are virtual this year. Sigh. I told Olive that she could ride her bike and pace me for all of the races. I need to find a mile long down hill for the one mile. Maybe head back over to the Montreal Ave hill?
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I went down to my Co op for a shopping trip. I got bacon, four pounds of butter, mushrooms (those are soft, I can chew them), the only bottled lime juice I'll purchase, and I forget what else. It's an oddly specific shopping trip.
Picture from the day: I had a love run and this Egret was really great to watch on my multiple laps around the marsh this morning.
I am thankful for: I'm actually really enjoying the Percy Jackson series. I had a lot of time to listen to those books as I was stuck in traffic in South Minneapolis.
COVID Diaries - COVID Dreams are real
Ok; how's this one for a dream.
Setting: At somehow a combination of the Science Museum (where I worked) and the Playhouse in the Park.
Characters: Bonnie Raitt (who was no taller than me in my dream), ABBA (yes, that ABBA), Mom, Dad, Marge, and literally the cast of this play.
Plot: I was working, or reviewing my work at the Science Museum, watching videos of old projects I'd done with the kids. (This is sweet.) And I'm hearing on the news about Bonnie Raitt being in town for a concert, and unrelated, ABBA was also in town, and they may do a surprise drop in at the play later that night. Lovely.
And soon it's about time for the play. I'm around the bar/snack area when in runs Bonnie Raitt in a speed suit (I kid you not), grabs whatever she needs from the bar, signs an autograph, and then just says hello and start talking to me. I had no pen, nor paper, so she took a picture with me. I tried to tell her that we had an actual album of hers, but the words did not come out.
So, somehow I'm star struck enough that I didn't go in to the start of the play, so I missed Bonnie's surprise number with the cast and I was 100% not disappointed.
They let me in after the first number (this is SOP for plays, there's one late seating). What's not SOP is I couldn't find my seat and it was all "just go anywhere, it's fine"
Also, I had a race medal around my neck that kept making noise (like a buzzer or kids toy) anytime I touched it. And I accumulated other boxes and drawings, etc over the course of the show. But what was most frustrating was everyone just kept moving around. Like "Oh, I'll try this seat now". So, sometimes I'd sit down and my new row mates would be friendly but.. One entitled white dude was like "Go back to your own seat" and I was all "my Dad is sitting in my seat, I can't tell him to move" Between coming in late and moving seats in between skits and songs, I didn't have a program, or a 'bonus program' that turned everyone's hands red?
This play was like, the cast does a skit and then sings a song and then the set goes dark, and then some cast members come in the audience to distract you for a while, and then the next set is up... Apparently this happened in my dream 8 or 9 of the 11 times it was scheduled to before... I don't know. I got fed up. ABBA did join them for one of the songs in the middle. I was one of the only audience members who knew all these extra singers were ABBA at the start of their song.
There was an extra long brake between one of the sets because an actor fell back stage?
Also, at the end, someone from MTV was waiting around in the wings to give an award to Bonnie Raitt but mercifully I woke up before that. It was a really bad play.
Setting: At somehow a combination of the Science Museum (where I worked) and the Playhouse in the Park.
Characters: Bonnie Raitt (who was no taller than me in my dream), ABBA (yes, that ABBA), Mom, Dad, Marge, and literally the cast of this play.
Plot: I was working, or reviewing my work at the Science Museum, watching videos of old projects I'd done with the kids. (This is sweet.) And I'm hearing on the news about Bonnie Raitt being in town for a concert, and unrelated, ABBA was also in town, and they may do a surprise drop in at the play later that night. Lovely.
And soon it's about time for the play. I'm around the bar/snack area when in runs Bonnie Raitt in a speed suit (I kid you not), grabs whatever she needs from the bar, signs an autograph, and then just says hello and start talking to me. I had no pen, nor paper, so she took a picture with me. I tried to tell her that we had an actual album of hers, but the words did not come out.
So, somehow I'm star struck enough that I didn't go in to the start of the play, so I missed Bonnie's surprise number with the cast and I was 100% not disappointed.
They let me in after the first number (this is SOP for plays, there's one late seating). What's not SOP is I couldn't find my seat and it was all "just go anywhere, it's fine"
Also, I had a race medal around my neck that kept making noise (like a buzzer or kids toy) anytime I touched it. And I accumulated other boxes and drawings, etc over the course of the show. But what was most frustrating was everyone just kept moving around. Like "Oh, I'll try this seat now". So, sometimes I'd sit down and my new row mates would be friendly but.. One entitled white dude was like "Go back to your own seat" and I was all "my Dad is sitting in my seat, I can't tell him to move" Between coming in late and moving seats in between skits and songs, I didn't have a program, or a 'bonus program' that turned everyone's hands red?
This play was like, the cast does a skit and then sings a song and then the set goes dark, and then some cast members come in the audience to distract you for a while, and then the next set is up... Apparently this happened in my dream 8 or 9 of the 11 times it was scheduled to before... I don't know. I got fed up. ABBA did join them for one of the songs in the middle. I was one of the only audience members who knew all these extra singers were ABBA at the start of their song.
There was an extra long brake between one of the sets because an actor fell back stage?
Also, at the end, someone from MTV was waiting around in the wings to give an award to Bonnie Raitt but mercifully I woke up before that. It was a really bad play.
22.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 22
Take care of my body: I ran 4 miles. No. Okay. I ran/walked four miles. And I did an 'easy' deck of cards workout.
Take care of my heart/mind: I visited with Captain Smiley at the end of the night. He had some hard news earlier in the day. I also visited with my neighbor on the other side. (I should call her Jackpot neighbor, because seriously, I'd never met her before we shared a wall and she is the best so far.)
Take care of my living space: I played some more with my shade sail. I had to make some slits in it. So it can tolerate the wind better. Olive had this idea that I'd like measure and draw lines to cut, while I'm over here playing with scissors.
Take care of work or economic security: Okay; that didn't happen too much today. Except, the canopy that I ordered that snapped in the rain storm, I mostly sent back to Amazon, so that'll be money back in my pocket.
A clipping or link from the news: Okay. Here's what's confusing me about the news.
Headline 1 Snowballing Coronavirus cases in US States as Hospitals fill.
Headline 2 The daily coronavirus update: Minnesota reports lowest one-day death toll in more than two months. I mean. I am so confused over here.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Actually, not an issue today?
Picture from the day: This is yesterday. This is the shade sail Olive, Captain Smiley and Dungeon Master helped me design and build.
I am thankful for: Today I'm going with neighbors.
Take care of my heart/mind: I visited with Captain Smiley at the end of the night. He had some hard news earlier in the day. I also visited with my neighbor on the other side. (I should call her Jackpot neighbor, because seriously, I'd never met her before we shared a wall and she is the best so far.)
Take care of my living space: I played some more with my shade sail. I had to make some slits in it. So it can tolerate the wind better. Olive had this idea that I'd like measure and draw lines to cut, while I'm over here playing with scissors.
Take care of work or economic security: Okay; that didn't happen too much today. Except, the canopy that I ordered that snapped in the rain storm, I mostly sent back to Amazon, so that'll be money back in my pocket.
A clipping or link from the news: Okay. Here's what's confusing me about the news.
Headline 1 Snowballing Coronavirus cases in US States as Hospitals fill.
Headline 2 The daily coronavirus update: Minnesota reports lowest one-day death toll in more than two months. I mean. I am so confused over here.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Actually, not an issue today?
Picture from the day: This is yesterday. This is the shade sail Olive, Captain Smiley and Dungeon Master helped me design and build.
21.6.20
COVID Diaries - I had a dental procedure during COVID
June 17 - I had a dental procedure to fix receding gums. Did it work? I have no freaking idea.
Captain Smiley took me over to the clinic in the morning, and then around lunch time he came back and took my stoned ass home. Halcyon turns out to be a lovely drug. It made me sleep through whatever was happening, so that was good. Slept most of the rest of the day too.
June 18 - Well my mouth hurts a lot freaking more than I expected. The teeth that got covered with the new gum graft are like "don't touch me". It really hurt. I ate soup. Really anything that I could get into my body without opening my mouth too wide or chewing.
June 19 - I wound up calling in to work on this day as well. It wasn't that my mouth straight up hurt, but it was so uncomfortable. I knew I couldn't, like, concentrate on work for 8 hours. I listened to a lot of the Percy Jackson books so far here.
June 20 - My mouth is feeling, like, significantly better. Like, I may survive. There's still every once in a while a "well you bit down in the wrong place" pain, but, a lot better. I've added goetta and eggs back into my diet, and some rice.
June 21 - Happy Birthday to me. (And Happy Father's Day!) Olive came over and helped me construct a shade sail for my patio. This might be better described as a shade wall. That west facing sun is brutal this time of year. Though, hilariously, it's super cloudy today so I can't tell how well it'll work. This was a two-trip (hardware store trip) project. I thought for sure it'd take 3 or more. Captain Smiley came over for a visit, as did Dungeon Master. So, not super festive, but super productive. It felt great to build something from scratch.
Captain Smiley took me over to the clinic in the morning, and then around lunch time he came back and took my stoned ass home. Halcyon turns out to be a lovely drug. It made me sleep through whatever was happening, so that was good. Slept most of the rest of the day too.
June 18 - Well my mouth hurts a lot freaking more than I expected. The teeth that got covered with the new gum graft are like "don't touch me". It really hurt. I ate soup. Really anything that I could get into my body without opening my mouth too wide or chewing.
June 19 - I wound up calling in to work on this day as well. It wasn't that my mouth straight up hurt, but it was so uncomfortable. I knew I couldn't, like, concentrate on work for 8 hours. I listened to a lot of the Percy Jackson books so far here.
June 20 - My mouth is feeling, like, significantly better. Like, I may survive. There's still every once in a while a "well you bit down in the wrong place" pain, but, a lot better. I've added goetta and eggs back into my diet, and some rice.
June 21 - Happy Birthday to me. (And Happy Father's Day!) Olive came over and helped me construct a shade sail for my patio. This might be better described as a shade wall. That west facing sun is brutal this time of year. Though, hilariously, it's super cloudy today so I can't tell how well it'll work. This was a two-trip (hardware store trip) project. I thought for sure it'd take 3 or more. Captain Smiley came over for a visit, as did Dungeon Master. So, not super festive, but super productive. It felt great to build something from scratch.
19.6.20
COVID Diaires - Linkfest
Y'all, I love maps. Because I'm a nerd. When I was looking for a new home to buy, the first thing I did was locate the potential place on Google Maps and then find all the running trails and bus routes nearby. No joke.
First, My most favorite example of how maps can show equality. I'm sure this has been on here before. "When third world countries are misrepresented, they're likely to be valued less." And I still love it.
A more recent example of how maps can share data and spread equality.
First, My most favorite example of how maps can show equality. I'm sure this has been on here before. "When third world countries are misrepresented, they're likely to be valued less." And I still love it.
A more recent example of how maps can share data and spread equality.
16.6.20
COVID Diaries June 16
Take care of my body: I ran 2.27 miles this morning (it was hot y'all) and did a deck of cards workout.
Take care of my heart/mind: Well, I had a nice day at work, so that was good.
Take care of my living space: I did get some stuff cleaned up ahead of tomorrow, so that's also good.
Take care of work or economic security: Did I mention work?
A clipping or link from the news: This came out today and was then referenced in City Pages.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I went to the store to get eggs. Non organic eggs are super inexpensive.
Picture from the day: No, because it was too hot when I was running.
I am thankful for: Actually, my work day.
Take care of my heart/mind: Well, I had a nice day at work, so that was good.
Take care of my living space: I did get some stuff cleaned up ahead of tomorrow, so that's also good.
Take care of work or economic security: Did I mention work?
A clipping or link from the news: This came out today and was then referenced in City Pages.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I went to the store to get eggs. Non organic eggs are super inexpensive.
Picture from the day: No, because it was too hot when I was running.
I am thankful for: Actually, my work day.
15.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 15
Take care of my body: I did a deck of cards weight lifting work out, and I ran/walked 4.49 miles in the hot hot part of the day.
Take care of my heart/mind: I love my patio.
Take care of my living space: Did I mention my patio?
Take care of work or economic security: I actually worked today ahead of a planned dental procedure on Wednesday.
A clipping or link from the news: Seriously, this was not, like, a sure thing, but, way to go Supreme Court. People are people.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Opposite wise, toilet paper is reappearing at Costco.
Picture from the day: No, because it was too hot for pics when I was running.
I am thankful for: I dropped off Marigolds to Dungeon Master as a slightly belated birthday gift.
Take care of my heart/mind: I love my patio.
Take care of my living space: Did I mention my patio?
Take care of work or economic security: I actually worked today ahead of a planned dental procedure on Wednesday.
A clipping or link from the news: Seriously, this was not, like, a sure thing, but, way to go Supreme Court. People are people.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Opposite wise, toilet paper is reappearing at Costco.
Picture from the day: No, because it was too hot for pics when I was running.
I am thankful for: I dropped off Marigolds to Dungeon Master as a slightly belated birthday gift.
14.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 14
Take care of my body: I ran 6.2 miles this morning. Ran/walked while listing to Percy Jackson. Have seriously fallen into those books.
Afterwards, I picked up the piles and piles of medicine I need ahead of Wednesday dental procedure. Wahoo.
Take care of my heart/mind: I had supper with Captain Smiley. The pork chops continue to melt in my mouth like butter.
Take care of my living space: I picked the windiest day of summer so far to secure my outdoor patio canopy. So far, it's holding steady.
Take care of work or economic security: No. Just, well... I picked $3 buckets for securing the canopy verses something much more expensive? So, there's that.
A clipping or link from the news: Meh.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Marigolds for Dungeon Master, but I think that relates more to the time of year versus COVID 19?
Picture from the day: Want to know all about the Blue Heron I chilled with while running all of the laps around my marsh?
I am thankful for: At the moment, it's between the pork chops and the canopy mooring system I copied from Zumba friends.
Afterwards, I picked up the piles and piles of medicine I need ahead of Wednesday dental procedure. Wahoo.
Take care of my heart/mind: I had supper with Captain Smiley. The pork chops continue to melt in my mouth like butter.
Take care of my living space: I picked the windiest day of summer so far to secure my outdoor patio canopy. So far, it's holding steady.
Take care of work or economic security: No. Just, well... I picked $3 buckets for securing the canopy verses something much more expensive? So, there's that.
A clipping or link from the news: Meh.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Marigolds for Dungeon Master, but I think that relates more to the time of year versus COVID 19?
Picture from the day: Want to know all about the Blue Heron I chilled with while running all of the laps around my marsh?
I am thankful for: At the moment, it's between the pork chops and the canopy mooring system I copied from Zumba friends.
13.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 13
Take care of my body: I ran/walked 8 miles today. I have learned that from now on, if I'm going that far, I need water and a salt tab. That would've made today's run much better.
Take care of my heart/mind: I have fallen into the first Percy Jackson book.
Take care of my living space: Meh.
Take care of work or economic security: Not much. I put gas in my car and got a super gulp at the gas station after the run, but that's as much damage as I did.
A clipping or link from the news: I've been confused by public health data here showing cases are coming in "waves" but generally decreasing. This explains more. Apparently, Minnesota and Ohio are decreasing, KY is holding steady, and don't go to the south.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Today, tacos.
Picture from the day: Not really, but wishing Dungeon Master the happiest of birthdays (again, from yesterday.)
I am thankful for: This pop up canopy on my patio. Makes it so much more pleasant even than the umbrella.
Take care of my heart/mind: I have fallen into the first Percy Jackson book.
Take care of my living space: Meh.
Take care of work or economic security: Not much. I put gas in my car and got a super gulp at the gas station after the run, but that's as much damage as I did.
A clipping or link from the news: I've been confused by public health data here showing cases are coming in "waves" but generally decreasing. This explains more. Apparently, Minnesota and Ohio are decreasing, KY is holding steady, and don't go to the south.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Today, tacos.
Picture from the day: Not really, but wishing Dungeon Master the happiest of birthdays (again, from yesterday.)
I am thankful for: This pop up canopy on my patio. Makes it so much more pleasant even than the umbrella.
12.6.20
COVID Diaires - June 12
Take care of my body: I ran 4.45 miles in the morning. Run/walk most of it, but I did run my mile.
Take care of my heart/mind: Well, I thought this was going to be a trip to a nature preserve but wound up being a visit with work colleagues who I haven't seen since... March? February? I dunno? Who are most of you actually?
Take care of my living space: I tried something new on the patio, partially defeated the west facing "I will melt you" evening sun.
Take care of work or economic security: I did work. And got a mileage point!
A clipping or link from the news: this seems relevant given my recent issues with a package taking the tour of Minneapolis and the suburbs before getting to my house.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Well, canopy walls are definitely in stock. Gas is above $2/gallon again. I think that's good but I'm not sure.
Picture from the day: Face Time with Mom and Dad before my phone died.
I am thankful for: I had a lovely chat with Aunt Barb. And, I have a new baby cousin, so that's amazing. Let me just say that again, I have a new baby cousin!
Also, wishing Dungeon Master the happiest of birthdays.
Take care of my heart/mind: Well, I thought this was going to be a trip to a nature preserve but wound up being a visit with work colleagues who I haven't seen since... March? February? I dunno? Who are most of you actually?
Take care of my living space: I tried something new on the patio, partially defeated the west facing "I will melt you" evening sun.
Take care of work or economic security: I did work. And got a mileage point!
A clipping or link from the news: this seems relevant given my recent issues with a package taking the tour of Minneapolis and the suburbs before getting to my house.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Well, canopy walls are definitely in stock. Gas is above $2/gallon again. I think that's good but I'm not sure.
Picture from the day: Face Time with Mom and Dad before my phone died.
I am thankful for: I had a lovely chat with Aunt Barb. And, I have a new baby cousin, so that's amazing. Let me just say that again, I have a new baby cousin!
Also, wishing Dungeon Master the happiest of birthdays.
11.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 11
Take care of my body: Ooof. I ran a long way this morning. I did not do weights, because I was like dead when I got back. I probably won't do that tomorrow.
Take care of my heart/mind: I talked by video to some coworkers I haven't seen in a while, and then I watered my plants.
Take care of my living space: Did I tell you about my plants?
Take care of work or economic security: I did work today, was pleasantly surprised by my productivity.
A clipping or link from the news: White Privilege is real people. Fascinating.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Related: the post office forgot where Minneapolis is and sent my package to the wrong place. Now I don't know when I'll get it. Sigh. Updated to add: Qat Lady says it's harder to fix your pets right now, or takes longer for an appointment. I assume since people vents and animal vents are the same thing and the people hospitals have them all right now?
Picture from the day: Apparently I can't upload them right now? Thanks Blogger. Updated: Blogger healed itself. Your turn USPS
I am thankful for: I had a nice day at work and finished up under my umbrella outside, which did not blow away in the wind.
Take care of my heart/mind: I talked by video to some coworkers I haven't seen in a while, and then I watered my plants.
Take care of my living space: Did I tell you about my plants?
Take care of work or economic security: I did work today, was pleasantly surprised by my productivity.
A clipping or link from the news: White Privilege is real people. Fascinating.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Related: the post office forgot where Minneapolis is and sent my package to the wrong place. Now I don't know when I'll get it. Sigh. Updated to add: Qat Lady says it's harder to fix your pets right now, or takes longer for an appointment. I assume since people vents and animal vents are the same thing and the people hospitals have them all right now?
Picture from the day: Apparently I can't upload them right now? Thanks Blogger. Updated: Blogger healed itself. Your turn USPS
10.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 10
Take care of my body: I ran 5 miles this morning. I finally nominated a five mile loop in my neighborhood that does not involve train tracks. I really didn't understand what an issue that'd be when I moved here. It's on 57th and 49th, which are slightly busier, but have separated pedestrian/bike trails, so I like it.
Take care of my heart/mind: I, um, well... I shopped at North Market, which is apparently having reduced hours for a minute. I am now remembering I need to make yogurt. Sigh.
Take care of my living space: I weeded after I ran. I also moved a couple "cooler" plants to the front yard, and dealt with recycling.
Take care of work or economic security: I did work. I think I'd do better if I went to Lyric or Westgate more, sat there and worked, and then went home.
A clipping or link from the news: this is a few days old, but I adore it for obvious reasons. I mean, the administration did say to own the streets, right?
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Okra has been out of stock at my store for too long. I have a strong sad for that.
Picture from the day: I mean, did I take one?
I am thankful for: Can I say potato chips? Actually, today, I finished catching up on season six of Agents of Shield, so I could figure out what's going on in the current season. I love Agent Coulson.
Take care of my heart/mind: I, um, well... I shopped at North Market, which is apparently having reduced hours for a minute. I am now remembering I need to make yogurt. Sigh.
Take care of my living space: I weeded after I ran. I also moved a couple "cooler" plants to the front yard, and dealt with recycling.
Take care of work or economic security: I did work. I think I'd do better if I went to Lyric or Westgate more, sat there and worked, and then went home.
A clipping or link from the news: this is a few days old, but I adore it for obvious reasons. I mean, the administration did say to own the streets, right?
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: Okra has been out of stock at my store for too long. I have a strong sad for that.
Picture from the day: I mean, did I take one?
I am thankful for: Can I say potato chips? Actually, today, I finished catching up on season six of Agents of Shield, so I could figure out what's going on in the current season. I love Agent Coulson.
9.6.20
COVID Diaries - June 9
Take care of my body: I ran this morning. It's hot y'all. I also did a modified deck of cards work out that was harder than I expected. I normally do push, pull, press, hinge separately. Today I did squat thrusts (leg push + overhead press) and deadlift + shoulder raise (hinge + pull). Squat thrusts, wowsers.
Take care of my heart/mind: After work happy hour with colleagues, including one who recently left our department for a new department at our company (on great terms for all of us).
Take care of my living space: My hydrangea is going to flower this year. Y'all, I am so happy. I nursed this poor thing all last summer, and talked to it, and fed it coffee (for reals), and it made no flowers. So, this is wonderful.
Take care of work or economic security: I worked.
A clipping or link from the news: Not COVID 19 related but putting this here because the Broken Earth series is one of my favorites, and my 9th grade English teacher is also a black female author who is crazy smart.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I now have 5lb weights from Play It Again sports. $0.80/lb. It's better than the 3lb weights I had before.
Picture from the day: Ok; I legit did not take one?
I am thankful for: Captain Smiley got me a new yard sign. Our neighbor thanked us as we were putting them up. I love my neighborhood.
Take care of my heart/mind: After work happy hour with colleagues, including one who recently left our department for a new department at our company (on great terms for all of us).
Take care of my living space: My hydrangea is going to flower this year. Y'all, I am so happy. I nursed this poor thing all last summer, and talked to it, and fed it coffee (for reals), and it made no flowers. So, this is wonderful.
Take care of work or economic security: I worked.
A clipping or link from the news: Not COVID 19 related but putting this here because the Broken Earth series is one of my favorites, and my 9th grade English teacher is also a black female author who is crazy smart.
Things I tried to buy that are out of stock, or things that are now being advertised or sold that are new: I now have 5lb weights from Play It Again sports. $0.80/lb. It's better than the 3lb weights I had before.
Picture from the day: Ok; I legit did not take one?
I am thankful for: Captain Smiley got me a new yard sign. Our neighbor thanked us as we were putting them up. I love my neighborhood.
8.6.20
COVID Diaries - I am so far behind
I kind of hit the point where I had to stop journaling. Now, I'm catching up.
June 2 (Tuesday) - I ran for a very very long distance (for me). I worked from my car in the morning, and then from Mom and Dad's basement in the afternoon. I can't remember what we had for supper, but I'm fairly sure I made it.
June 3 (Wednesday) - I ran a more normal distance for me. And then I mostly worked. Dad and I also went to Spectrum to get better internet. I was pleasantly surprised but their customer service. Even when they were all "your lines are so old we need to reactivate them" Okay.
June 4 (Thursday) - This was an even shorter run. I think it was slightly hotter than the surface of the sun with 10,000% humidity, so I did my best. And then I worked. In the evening, the Spectrum cable guy practically moved in with us. He wasn't bad, but he was sooooo sloooow. Mom and Dad and I finally ate at like 8:30pm after he finished reactivating (and reinstalling) the lines. Bonus though was that Mom and I had a lovely time sitting outside and visiting with the neighbors.
June 5 (Friday) - I worked again. In the basement. It's hilarious. I look like I'm in a cave. Also, the 10,000% humidity remains, and is no joke. For reasons passing all human understanding, Mom wanted to take a walk in the hottest part of the day. I love you. So, we did the thing.
June 6 (Saturday) - Hang on, because the humidity should be soooo much better tomorrow. In the evening, I headed down to see some of my most favorite people in the world (and in Kentucky). These were mostly socially distant outside visits, but did include one small inside visit as well. My first in months (not counting Captain Smiley who is my quarantine partner). PS - when I got home, Mom started having a panic attack. (No judgements, just noting it.)
June 7 (Sunday) - I got up at the crack of dawn for another long run. After I got home, Mom panic attack continued in spectacular proportions. (Again, no judgement, but not ignoring it either.) I spent the morning traipsing around Long Branch Farm and checking out Blue Herons. Mom was convinced I was going to contaminate everyone and everything I touched, which is why she was so upset. I had bonus Chinese food for lunch (whist I was pretending I wasn't riding in cars with other people, closer than 6 feet), and then played with my cousins super adorable toddler. I had a birthday supper with Mom and Dad (where we pretended there were no panic attacks earlier in the day, talk about healthy), and then packed up.
June 8 (Monday) - Early, short run, Cincinnati time. And then, all of the driving. Lots of audio book listening. I'm almost done with Pandemic which is an oddly prescient book for the times. When I got home, I said several prayers to the a/c gods because it was like 100* in Minneapolis (sadly, not an exaggeration). I watered my plants, cleaned my living areas, and unpacked my suitcase. Then I tried to cut my hair. This continues to be an exploit that will take multiple attempts I think. ,
June 2 (Tuesday) - I ran for a very very long distance (for me). I worked from my car in the morning, and then from Mom and Dad's basement in the afternoon. I can't remember what we had for supper, but I'm fairly sure I made it.
June 3 (Wednesday) - I ran a more normal distance for me. And then I mostly worked. Dad and I also went to Spectrum to get better internet. I was pleasantly surprised but their customer service. Even when they were all "your lines are so old we need to reactivate them" Okay.
June 4 (Thursday) - This was an even shorter run. I think it was slightly hotter than the surface of the sun with 10,000% humidity, so I did my best. And then I worked. In the evening, the Spectrum cable guy practically moved in with us. He wasn't bad, but he was sooooo sloooow. Mom and Dad and I finally ate at like 8:30pm after he finished reactivating (and reinstalling) the lines. Bonus though was that Mom and I had a lovely time sitting outside and visiting with the neighbors.
June 5 (Friday) - I worked again. In the basement. It's hilarious. I look like I'm in a cave. Also, the 10,000% humidity remains, and is no joke. For reasons passing all human understanding, Mom wanted to take a walk in the hottest part of the day. I love you. So, we did the thing.
June 6 (Saturday) - Hang on, because the humidity should be soooo much better tomorrow. In the evening, I headed down to see some of my most favorite people in the world (and in Kentucky). These were mostly socially distant outside visits, but did include one small inside visit as well. My first in months (not counting Captain Smiley who is my quarantine partner). PS - when I got home, Mom started having a panic attack. (No judgements, just noting it.)
June 7 (Sunday) - I got up at the crack of dawn for another long run. After I got home, Mom panic attack continued in spectacular proportions. (Again, no judgement, but not ignoring it either.) I spent the morning traipsing around Long Branch Farm and checking out Blue Herons. Mom was convinced I was going to contaminate everyone and everything I touched, which is why she was so upset. I had bonus Chinese food for lunch (whist I was pretending I wasn't riding in cars with other people, closer than 6 feet), and then played with my cousins super adorable toddler. I had a birthday supper with Mom and Dad (where we pretended there were no panic attacks earlier in the day, talk about healthy), and then packed up.
June 8 (Monday) - Early, short run, Cincinnati time. And then, all of the driving. Lots of audio book listening. I'm almost done with Pandemic which is an oddly prescient book for the times. When I got home, I said several prayers to the a/c gods because it was like 100* in Minneapolis (sadly, not an exaggeration). I watered my plants, cleaned my living areas, and unpacked my suitcase. Then I tried to cut my hair. This continues to be an exploit that will take multiple attempts I think. ,
COVID Diaries - June 1
Today, I had dreams of grandure. I did not get up at 6:30am and run whatever dumb distance I thought I'd do. Instead I slept 'till 9am and ran just over 4 miles, but it was hilly, and a lot of fun, so there's there.
I came back andslaved away cooked brunch. Goetta was included.
In the afternoon, Dad and I headed down to the farm, which is one of my most favorite places on earth. We took a walk, saw some things, and hung out. We saw lots and lots of birds. I tried to explain a yellow bellied sap sucker. It does still sound more like an insult than a bird species, but, whatever.
For supper, Mom made broccoli soup and I made meat for Dad and I to add to the soup.
In the evening, we had a Skype call with a high school friend of Mom's who also happens to be one of the smartest human beings I've ever met.
And now I'm doing laundry.
Apparently last night there were some fires up in my neck of the woods. I think it spared a beloved restaurant but nailed a barber shop, mailbox store, and another small business. Like, wtf, people in my neighborhood wouldn't have torched that stuff. Our main library was nailed too. Every time I turn around, there's more destruction.
Part of me is glad I'm away, and part of me wants to be back, now that there's a clear path to help. It's very confusing.
I came back and
In the afternoon, Dad and I headed down to the farm, which is one of my most favorite places on earth. We took a walk, saw some things, and hung out. We saw lots and lots of birds. I tried to explain a yellow bellied sap sucker. It does still sound more like an insult than a bird species, but, whatever.
For supper, Mom made broccoli soup and I made meat for Dad and I to add to the soup.
In the evening, we had a Skype call with a high school friend of Mom's who also happens to be one of the smartest human beings I've ever met.
And now I'm doing laundry.
Apparently last night there were some fires up in my neck of the woods. I think it spared a beloved restaurant but nailed a barber shop, mailbox store, and another small business. Like, wtf, people in my neighborhood wouldn't have torched that stuff. Our main library was nailed too. Every time I turn around, there's more destruction.
Part of me is glad I'm away, and part of me wants to be back, now that there's a clear path to help. It's very confusing.
May 30 - At night
This is the general advice going out to all residents in Minneapolis.
During tonight’s curfew:
Leave your lights on
Put trash/recycling bins in garage so they can’t be set on fire
Leave hoses attached to your spigot
If you see people lighting fires, bang pans, shine light and make noise
In case of emergency, fire hydrants can be opened with pipe wrenches to fill buckets for bucket brigades
Talk to your neighbors on your block today and ask them to do the same
Fight like hell for justice
If you want to do more, join with neighbors on private property of local businesses to stand watch overnight
If you identify as white, and are healthy and able, consider staying out in your yard to keep an eye on the block
Remove sharp tools or anything that could be used as a weapon from your property
Check in on your vulnerable neighbors TODAY to find out how they are and what they want/need
Fill bathtubs with water
Hoses on the ready
Remove cars from street
Remove anything that can be thrown from your yard
Remove anything that can be burned from your yard
Contact your neighbors
ID the medics on your block
Put away valuables
Sit on porches all night; BE PRESENT
Car blockades to block people from coming on your block
Buy fire extinguishers in suburbs
ID a place of refuge
Buddy shifts that overlap
Pots and pans to make noise if something happens
Buckets of water in front yards
Wear full clothing and helmet
Wear matching clothes so we can ID allies
Keep all lights on
Have a wrench ready for fire hydrants
ID someone who can restrain people
Turn off your do not disturb on your phone
Pack a bag
Douse your houses and yards
Flashlights and candles ready if power goes out
Wear bright colors
Have a password on your block
Look for out-of-state plates and armed white dudes
Barricade big streets from neighborhoods
Wheelbarrows/shovels with dirt ready
Fill up dumpsters with water
I talked to a friend who lives very close to the violence at the 5th precinct last night, and where it was starting up again tonight. But there's all kinds of threats for violence in other places as well, so it's really scary. I will say, out loud, I'm afraid of my house being burned down. That's my biggest fear.
A different friend (who may or may not have a blog name?) finally made me turn off the TV/online feeds. "There's nothing you can do" That's why he's a good friend.
During tonight’s curfew:
Leave your lights on
Put trash/recycling bins in garage so they can’t be set on fire
Leave hoses attached to your spigot
If you see people lighting fires, bang pans, shine light and make noise
In case of emergency, fire hydrants can be opened with pipe wrenches to fill buckets for bucket brigades
Talk to your neighbors on your block today and ask them to do the same
Fight like hell for justice
If you want to do more, join with neighbors on private property of local businesses to stand watch overnight
If you identify as white, and are healthy and able, consider staying out in your yard to keep an eye on the block
Remove sharp tools or anything that could be used as a weapon from your property
Check in on your vulnerable neighbors TODAY to find out how they are and what they want/need
Fill bathtubs with water
Hoses on the ready
Remove cars from street
Remove anything that can be thrown from your yard
Remove anything that can be burned from your yard
Contact your neighbors
ID the medics on your block
Put away valuables
Sit on porches all night; BE PRESENT
Car blockades to block people from coming on your block
Buy fire extinguishers in suburbs
ID a place of refuge
Buddy shifts that overlap
Pots and pans to make noise if something happens
Buckets of water in front yards
Wear full clothing and helmet
Wear matching clothes so we can ID allies
Keep all lights on
Have a wrench ready for fire hydrants
ID someone who can restrain people
Turn off your do not disturb on your phone
Pack a bag
Douse your houses and yards
Flashlights and candles ready if power goes out
Wear bright colors
Have a password on your block
Look for out-of-state plates and armed white dudes
Barricade big streets from neighborhoods
Wheelbarrows/shovels with dirt ready
Fill up dumpsters with water
I talked to a friend who lives very close to the violence at the 5th precinct last night, and where it was starting up again tonight. But there's all kinds of threats for violence in other places as well, so it's really scary. I will say, out loud, I'm afraid of my house being burned down. That's my biggest fear.
A different friend (who may or may not have a blog name?) finally made me turn off the TV/online feeds. "There's nothing you can do" That's why he's a good friend.
COVID Diaries - May 29 and 30
Doing two days at once here, again.
Friday around 5am, I woke up to hear my city was on fire, and some buildings were expected to explode due to gas leaks. So I started putting clothes in my suitcase. I left around 6am. Driving out of town, I say a lot of "this used to be on fire and is still smoking" in Minneapolis (Broadway, Cedar Ave) and St Paul (Midway). I was a disaster as I was leaving town, but I got better and better as the day went on. I got to Mom and Dad's towards the end of the day, and that really lifted me right up. I went for my run, had supper, and went to sleep.
Saturday, I woke up around 2am to see that a whole different police station was on fire, the National Guard couldn't stop it, and, just, everything was on fire. Still.
Saturday I woke up for reals and headed out for a run, which really lifted me up. I've spent the day with Mom and Dad. Mom has commanded that we must eat all the food in the fridge, so I cooked Chili Verde with some of the stuff I brought home. It's sitting in the crock pot, and will make an excellent meal for tomorrow or the next couple of days.
As Saturday went on, more and more news was coming in. 80% of the arrests for violence and property destruction are from people who don't live in Minnesota. And suddenly, it all makes sense. In Minneapolis, we protest, we block roads, we sit on light rail tracks. But there is not violence and there is not property damage. Now I'm hearing that most of the violence is coming from white supremacists (typical), so some of my friends are heading out to stay in safer areas. I feel like a refugee.
In other amazing news today, a rocket with humans launched into space from Texas. So that's super cool.
Friday around 5am, I woke up to hear my city was on fire, and some buildings were expected to explode due to gas leaks. So I started putting clothes in my suitcase. I left around 6am. Driving out of town, I say a lot of "this used to be on fire and is still smoking" in Minneapolis (Broadway, Cedar Ave) and St Paul (Midway). I was a disaster as I was leaving town, but I got better and better as the day went on. I got to Mom and Dad's towards the end of the day, and that really lifted me right up. I went for my run, had supper, and went to sleep.
Saturday, I woke up around 2am to see that a whole different police station was on fire, the National Guard couldn't stop it, and, just, everything was on fire. Still.
Saturday I woke up for reals and headed out for a run, which really lifted me up. I've spent the day with Mom and Dad. Mom has commanded that we must eat all the food in the fridge, so I cooked Chili Verde with some of the stuff I brought home. It's sitting in the crock pot, and will make an excellent meal for tomorrow or the next couple of days.
As Saturday went on, more and more news was coming in. 80% of the arrests for violence and property destruction are from people who don't live in Minnesota. And suddenly, it all makes sense. In Minneapolis, we protest, we block roads, we sit on light rail tracks. But there is not violence and there is not property damage. Now I'm hearing that most of the violence is coming from white supremacists (typical), so some of my friends are heading out to stay in safer areas. I feel like a refugee.
In other amazing news today, a rocket with humans launched into space from Texas. So that's super cool.
2.6.20
COVID Diaries - Linkfest
I was checking the news today (something I've been a bit reluctant to do lately, for painfully obvious reasons).
This is a map of the riots, property damage, and fires. It's not constantly updates, but it does seem to be updated regularly.
More importantly, I saw the same news story reported with basically the same facts and two different headlines. Neither one of these sources is Fox News, btw.
Source 1 with a headline image:
And Source 2 with their headline image:
Ok, so, y'all, then I went down the rabbit hole and tried to find stories about this on IJR, which skews politically conservative but not so far away that I can't see them from the middle. Just to see, what is the reporting on this. Here's their headlines.
First, from the obvious "we would be against this" politicians:
Source 1 and headline image:
Second in this category: Story 2 and image:
Next up let's hear from the not politically connected in the US groups:
Source 1 and image:
And, from the Catholic Church Episcopal Church, source 2 and image:
And finally, from the "we are Republicans, you should really have us on your team, this should be easy" camp:
Source 1 and image:
And finally, a general STFU from source 2. And Image:
This is a map of the riots, property damage, and fires. It's not constantly updates, but it does seem to be updated regularly.
More importantly, I saw the same news story reported with basically the same facts and two different headlines. Neither one of these sources is Fox News, btw.
Source 1 with a headline image:
And Source 2 with their headline image:
Ok, so, y'all, then I went down the rabbit hole and tried to find stories about this on IJR, which skews politically conservative but not so far away that I can't see them from the middle. Just to see, what is the reporting on this. Here's their headlines.
First, from the obvious "we would be against this" politicians:
Source 1 and headline image:
Source 1 and image:
Source 1 and image:
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