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Small Talk: Out of Genoa


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On 4/10/2020 at 2:21 PM, Anna Yolei said:

Same here ❤️

And @boes , I usually visit my family in NorCal about once a year (my immediate family resides in Solano County, which is an hour away  from SF in good traffic ). I would be more than happy to make a visit for coffee or something the next time I'm up that way. *hugs*

Anna Yolei, it's a date!!  

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As virus kills, NYC shortens deadline for claiming dead

 

Every 15 seconds: Outbreak overwhelms NYC’s emergency system

 

U.S. now leads world in deaths, day after the Administration announces 'opening our country' task force -- The U.S. passed a grim milestone of leading the world in deaths from coronavirus.

 

Global deaths from virus soar past 100,000, but spread in U.S. may be slowing

 

Sweden’s government has tried a risky coronavirus strategy. It could backfire. -- Critics say the government seeks “herd immunity” from the coronavirus. That could lead to more deaths.

 

Behind closed doors, the second coronavirus task force boosts industry and sows confusion --  "It cost weeks, " one official said.

 

The Administration leaves trail of unmet promises in coronavirus response,-- <shrug>

 

Nebraska Getting $300G in Federal Money for Each Coronavirus Case While NY Gets $12G -- You scratch my back and I'll grease your palm.

 

Veterans Affairs Hospitals to Give Masks Only to Some Employees

 

Does a Dept. of Pandemics Sound Odd? Homeland Security Once Did, Too -- It depends. Will they study the potential for and recommend preparations for possible pandemics, or will they place pennies on the eyes of the dead?

 

Libertarians debate: How to respond to coronavirus pandemic? -- One for all and all to benefit MEEEEEEEE!

 

It’s time to move past employer-based health insurance -- The coronavirus shows tying health insurance to jobs is a disaster. Let’s fix it. 

 

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Next potential shortage: Drugs needed to run ventilators -- Related: Ford and GM are making tens of thousands of ventilators. It may already be too late. -- From major car makers to DIY creations, we’re about to have more ventilators than we ever thought possible.

 

Some doctors moving away from ventilators for virus patients

 

How ventilators were turned into a form of patronage -- Payback is a Bitch.

 

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Outcry over racial data grows as virus slams black Americans -- Related: The Administration blames Covid-19 black mortality rates on poor health. It should blame its policies. -- Their policies have exacerbated the health conditions that are leading to more coronavirus fatalities among black Americans.

 

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White House rejects bailout for Postal Service battered by coronavirus

 

Congo, weary from Ebola, must also battle the coronavirus

 

U.S. Navy destroyer transits Taiwan Strait on same day as Chinese drills -- More sharp elbows

 

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A note for the newspaper delivery man turned into a grocery lifeline for nearly 100 people amid coronavirus -- God bless you sir.

 

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Industry scrambles to stop fatal bird flu in South Carolina

 

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WATCH: Massive Explosion Occurs At Burbank Power Substation -- It rattled the windows and set off quite a commotion. Most exciting thing to happen in the neighborhood since the lock-down, and drew a large crowd.

 

‘Hope’ the giraffe born in New Orleans amid pandemic

 

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@boes thinking of your best friend a lot and glad she’s kicking ass against this 👊🏼 she’s very brave and you are a great friend. 

@jewel21 Steve looks so amazing like always he’s like the GQ model of birds. What a gorgeous boy and so full of soul and warmth in his eyes and body language. You have to be a proud Momma and proud of yourself for rocking your exam Ace! Not surprised you’d slay it but definitely impressed! 

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I'm in!

I brought home 3 extra tiaras (mine hangs from my vanity mirror) from the shop I want to give to the great nieces.  Will share for the party.  Who else needs one?

Just curious.  Anybody else have trouble finding a ham?  I just wanted a small one for the two of us but my store is sold out.  I'm good tho.  I have a freezer full of stuff.  But I wanted my ham and scalloped potatoes and asparagus....😟

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8 minutes ago, OhioSongbird said:

I'm in!

I brought home 3 extra tiaras (mine hangs from my vanity mirror) from the shop I want to give to the great nieces.  Will share for the party.  Who else needs one?

Just curious.  Anybody else have trouble finding a ham?  I just wanted a small one for the two of us but my store is sold out.  I'm good tho.  I have a freezer full of stuff.  But I wanted my ham and scalloped potatoes and asparagus....😟

Couldn't find a ham out here for love or money until yesterday.  My neighbor was shopping and Safeway finally had some so she got us one.  But till then, nada.

Scalloped potatoes and ham here, and with Lent over, chocolate chip cookies and ice cream.  I don't do Lent or much of anything else in an organized fashion, figure life has taken enough without me giving up any more, but everyone else here does so I mostly adhere.  

Happy Easter to you all, wonderful Preverts!

8 hours ago, bannana said:

Are you kidding me, two of my fave preverts are going to get together without me!?

the bold and the beautiful what GIF by CBS

There's unlimited room and I can't WAIT to see you all!

 

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Happy Easter preverts!!!

happy easter sunday GIF by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment

I keep thinking it wold be fun to have a meet-up somewhere I've never been like Hawaii. But we'd need places to stay and I can't afford a hotel, lol.  Still, it would be fun. 

And because I couldn't resist...

Cat Rabbit GIF

 

P.S. Thank you again for the kind words, @Petunia13. Give handsome boy, George, a hug from me ❤️

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Be still my beating heart.....Bill Spencer!!  My soap crush.

Caught the old ep of Y&R yesterday and there he was playing.....was it Brad Carlton?  Before my time but the man is fine.  Used to see DD doing some commercials around here 20 yrs ago for some basement waterproofing company.

He just does some great reactions.

Made my morning.....thanks.

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1 hour ago, boes said:

Couldn't find a ham out here for love or money until yesterday.  My neighbor was shopping and Safeway finally had some so she got us one.  But till then, nada.

Scalloped potatoes and ham here, and with Lent over, chocolate chip cookies and ice cream.  I don't do Lent or much of anything else in an organized fashion, figure life has taken enough without me giving up any more, but everyone else here does so I mostly adhere.  

Happy Easter to you all, wonderful Preverts!

There's unlimited room and I can't WAIT to see you all!

 

Ham is not a favourite here--haven't cooked one in decades. And Easter's always kind of a conundrum, meal-wise for us--spring foods, yes; it's the meat/fish item that's an issue. Were things a bit more normal, I'd do a herb stuffing for a side of salmon, new potatoes, asparagus, and so on. As is, probably turkey meatballs with something like a pasta primavera. To be slightly more festive, and realllllly old-school, I'm going to assay a Spanish Bar Cake--an ancient, not upmarket spice cake w raisins thing formerly sold by A & P in Canada. Believe me, this is not a classy item. But I love spice cake and PLL found recipes for it.

Tiara? The notion of me wearing one leaves me panting helplessly with laughter. I guess that's a good thing.

Happy Easter to all!

easter-hat.jpg

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@jewel21, I know what that cat is saying with his tail. Haha! In fact I think we all do.

I saw this little vid from Chris Cuomo about beating the virus. I drifted off watching it, but maybe it's helpful. It wasn't very long...

https://www.msn.com/en-us/video/peopleandplaces/chris-cuomo-heres-the-secret-to-kicking-this-virus/vi-BB12fdGt?ocid=sf

@OhioSongbird, It was so great to see Brad Carlton. DD does play the two characters very differently and it was such a treat to see Brad again. So many treats in that ep. I was tearing up through a lot of it. 

 

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2 hours ago, OhioSongbird said:

I'm in!

I brought home 3 extra tiaras (mine hangs from my vanity mirror) from the shop I want to give to the great nieces.  Will share for the party.  Who else needs one?

Just curious.  Anybody else have trouble finding a ham?  I just wanted a small one for the two of us but my store is sold out.  I'm good tho.  I have a freezer full of stuff.  But I wanted my ham and scalloped potatoes and asparagus....😟

We generally don't eat much ham, so I got some ham steaks. We're having that, roasted fingerling potatoes and French green beans with with sliced almonds. 

Hoppy Easter Preverts!

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21 hours ago, boes said:

Anna Yolei, it's a date!!  

 

16 hours ago, bannana said:

Are you kidding me, two of my fave preverts are going to get together without me!?

the bold and the beautiful what GIF by CBS

Yeah, not gonna lie, very jelly....

Hoppy Easter preverts!

rabbit.PNG.c3160ad5ce616134cac5e8fd9d95c35e.PNG

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13 hours ago, boes said:

Couldn't find a ham out here for love or money until yesterday.  My neighbor was shopping and Safeway finally had some so she got us one.  But till then, nada.

Our local Ralph's had some, but they were going fast. Aldi's had nothing in their meat department last week (No organic chickens!).

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Scalloped potatoes and ham here, and with Lent over, chocolate chip cookies and ice cream.  I don't do Lent or much of anything else in an organized fashion, figure life has taken enough without me giving up any more, but everyone else here does so I mostly adhere. 

Yummm! Love that comfortable combo.

I barbecued a leg of lamb, with scalloped potatoes, steamed asparagus, cheesecake with lemon curd. The Stunt's are in a food coma, snoring through Ben Hur. I was there for the chariot race, but grew tired of Charlton Heston chewing the scenery. There's your ham, boes.

Between the anxiety eating and 15 pounds of Cadbury chocolate eggs, Lent was a wash for us.

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Happy Easter to you all, wonderful Preverts!

God bless you, boes.

chocolate-2Beaster-2Bbunny-2Bmy-2Bbutt-2

^ My Easter morning.

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There's unlimited room and I can't WAIT to see you all!

Yay! This old teabag can wear a tiara!

a212a61b7d2cb840156cb73449c02723.jpg

Edited by Cupid Stunt
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12 hours ago, OhioSongbird said:

Be still my beating heart.....Bill Spencer!!  My soap crush.

Caught the old ep of Y&R yesterday and there he was playing.....was it Brad Carlton?  Before my time but the man is fine.  Used to see DD doing some commercials around here 20 yrs ago for some basement waterproofing company.

He just does some great reactions.

Made my morning.....thanks.

Not the commercials you mentioned butt......
 

 

 

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I’m vegan and was raised pagan but got my mom some ham steak (I buy her food and yes I distance myself from her and it’s in wrapped packages sanitized and got her veggie burgers as well) and was so comforted by the words “it’s done” and “he is risen” from the gospel the past couple days. In those moments of thinking of miracles and grace, I naturally thought of @boes best friend being healed hopefully as soon as possible. ❤️ 

One of my coworkers said today to a manager “in 15 years working here I’ve never seen someone work like you, you’re very good (pointing at me)” I said I like to work w a sense of urgency. And he said “it’s more something (and gestured at the space between us) ... something I can’t describe, something special (and waved his arms around me and then to our hearts).” I’m not complimenting myself or giving an ass pat, it just reconfirmed or challenged me to do better and i sometimes see essential workers feel alone, or get overwhelmed and glad this one didn’t. All of us care, of course, about each other and value and wouldn’t get by without each other.  I can’t imagine what life is like in the ICU on the ground or in city hospitals, I think they’ve had it very hard. I would be lying if I said I didn’t think often also of @peacheslatour dad and @PatsyandEddie grace that has made me work harder to make meaningful moments or validate. 

Back to the sanitizing and packaging and people throwing away plastic bags and using single use containers this entire epidemic has been a nightmare for single use plastics thrown away, styrofoam, tons of soap and sanitizer into oceans. For the ocean life this situation is going to be shit pan. No one has really talked about that. I see wildlife going bonkers also since no pedestrians drop or throw away food cuz of stay in place; also a lot of dog and cat rescues are suffering since the transport isn’t defined as essential business or shelters can’t get food. I pray that is rectified or not too many die. 

@jewel21 George and Steve are kindred souls since both are extremely gorgeous, love their moms, and have epitomized style, confidence and are smart. 

@Cupid Stunt you are an angel. 

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What kind of leadership does our nation need?

 

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The father of a million garage bands.

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6 hours ago, Petunia13 said:

I’m vegan and was raised pagan but got my mom some ham steak (I buy her food and yes I distance myself from her and it’s in wrapped packages sanitized and got her veggie burgers as well) and was so comforted by the words “it’s done” and “he is risen” from the gospel the past couple days. In those moments of thinking of miracles and grace, I naturally thought of @boes best friend being healed hopefully as soon as possible. ❤️ 

We're omnivorous; within limits, pretty much eat everything. Because of the stress, I've taken up running twice a day; the Thing's often join me or use Mr.Stunt's office gym. 

Whatever the work of Jesus was and is, it doesn’t require a formal place or permission to begin. And that’s the exquisite truth of these dark pandemic days: love is still love. Every day is Easter for those who are willing to see it. There is always life breaking through, always restoration happening, always resurrection taking place, always miracles all around us.

Lord, hear our prayers for boes friend. 

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One of my coworkers said today to a manager “in 15 years working here I’ve never seen someone work like you, you’re very good (pointing at me)” I said I like to work w a sense of urgency. And he said “it’s more something (and gestured at the space between us) ... something I can’t describe, something special (and waved his arms around me and then to our hearts).” I’m not complimenting myself or giving an ass pat, it just reconfirmed or challenged me to do better and i sometimes see essential workers feel alone, or get overwhelmed and glad this one didn’t. All of us care, of course, about each other and value and wouldn’t get by without each other.  I can’t imagine what life is like in the ICU on the ground or in city hospitals, I think they’ve had it very hard. I would be lying if I said I didn’t think often also of @peacheslatour dad and @PatsyandEddie grace that has made me work harder to make meaningful moments or validate. 

As I said before, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. You are giving of yourself on the front lines at the nursing home, bravely living out sacrificial love of strangers. It takes a lot of courage place yourself in harm’s way, caring for the patients as you would yourself. You deserve praise and acknowledgement.

I feel there is more you can contribute in healthcare administration, perhaps not at the nursing home, but in your future. This experience will change you.

(((Peaches and PatsyandEddie))) are our North Stars; symbolic reminders of walking the pilgrim's path to challenge devastating loss. They'll say their still stumbling along and not an example to follow. And yet they continue to teach and inform us with love and humility.

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Back to the sanitizing and packaging and people throwing away plastic bags and using single use containers this entire epidemic has been a nightmare for single use plastics thrown away, styrofoam, tons of soap and sanitizer into oceans. For the ocean life this situation is going to be shit pan. No one has really talked about that. I see wildlife going bonkers also since no pedestrians drop or throw away food cuz of stay in place; also a lot of dog and cat rescues are suffering since the transport isn’t defined as essential business or shelters can’t get food. I pray that is rectified or not too many die. 

The astonishing ammount of contaminated waste from the healthcare emergency boggles the mind. Consider all the people at loose ends, locked down at home, cleaning their closets and digging through their junk drawers. They can't take the reusable items to charity or have a yard sale, so some of it ends up in garbage cans. A terrible waste.

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@jewel21 George and Steve are kindred souls since both are extremely gorgeous, love their moms, and have epitomized style, confidence and are smart. 

They are wonderful creatures to let us be a part of their lives. Melvin's even sharing the house with us. My little malcontent ...

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@Cupid Stunt you are an angel. 

Don't let the sisters of Our Lady of Basketball hear you. Mother Superior will pull out the academic record and regale you with tales of my parochial school hijinks. Public school was much more accommodating to my restless spirit.

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Just a warning...I received a message from my bank today about a new scam involving the "stimulus checks" (the first wave of payments went out today).

If anybody claiming to be from the IRS, FBI, or your bank contacts you and asks for any personal information, like your social security #, birthdate, bank account info, online usename and password, address, card #, expiration date, etc., DO NOT RESPOND  (YES, I'M SCREAMING.).  They may say that you can receive your payment faster by providing this info, or that the payment has been received but you need to verify by answering questions, or that you need to login to your online banking by clicking a link to receive the money.

No government agency or bank will EVER contact you and ask you for information.  They will only ask for information if you contact them.

You all probably already know this, but people are desperate right now and their guard may be down.  Plus, these scammers can "spoof" phone numbers and email addresses and URLs to make them look legit.  

Sending best wishes and healing though to your friend, boes.  For what it's worth, I've seen stories of people as old as 103 making a complete recovery from the virus. 

Congratulations, jewel!

Hope everyone is doing well.  Happy belated Easter and/or Passover!  🐰🐣🐇

 

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5 minutes ago, Snaporaz said:

Just a warning...I received a message from my bank today about a new scam involving the "stimulus checks" (the first wave of payments went out today).

If anybody claiming to be from the IRS, FBI, or your bank contacts you and asks for any personal information, like your social security #, birthdate, bank account info, online usename and password, address, card #, expiration date, etc., DO NOT RESPOND  (YES, I'M SCREAMING.).  They may say that you can receive your payment faster by providing this info, or that the payment has been received but you need to verify by answering questions, or that you need to login to your online banking by clicking a link to receive the money.

No government agency or bank will EVER contact you and ask you for information.  They will only ask for information if you contact them.

You all probably already know this, but people are desperate right now and their guard may be down.  Plus, these scammers can "spoof" phone numbers and email addresses and URLs to make them look legit.  

Sending best wishes and healing though to your friend, boes.  For what it's worth, I've seen stories of people as old as 103 making a complete recovery from the virus. 

Congratulations, jewel!

Hope everyone is doing well.  Happy belated Easter and/or Passover!  🐰🐣🐇

 

This can't be said enough. NEVER give your SSN to ANYONE over the phone.

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It's 2 am and I am full of nervous energy. 

My accountant finally did my taxes and for the first year ever, I owe the government money. It's because of my second job. I don't make enough for them to tax me and now I have to pay it all in one lump sum which sucks. 

I'm waiting on cheques and it's been over a month since they were ordered. I know everything is slow because of the virus but I need them. 

I still haven't received my ROE by mail and it hasn't been filed yet electronically either. And if I want to apply to the CERB later today, I think I need to ask my other employer to also send me my ROE or file it electronically. Hopefully she'll have better luck than the first bosses.  So far the CERB isn't asking for your ROE but I'm sure I'd need it at some point. 

And I need to call the director of the school I attended to find out if she'll be mailing me my certificate and if I can have the result of my exam. So far it's been crickets from her which is frustrating me. 

 

 

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Jewel, can you file for an extension period for filing your taxes or appeal for a payment schedule?

Under the present economic circumstances, there must be some way to get some relief from the government. Forcing full payment seems very arbitrary for persons who are under financial duress. 

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This Is How It Looks When You're Not Afraid -- Dr. Anthony Fauci is the rare senior government official who seems more devoted to truth than to the Administration. -- Related: Dr. Fauci admits earlier Covid-19 mitigation efforts would have saved more American lives

 

Inside America’s 2-Decade Failure to Prepare for Coronavirus -- Top officials from three administrations describe how crucial lessons were learned and lost, programs launched and canceled, and budgets funded and defunded.

 

A Company Promised Cheap Ventilators to the Government, Never Delivered and Is Now Charging Quadruple the Price for New Ones -- Royal Philips N.V. agreed in September to sell 10,000 ventilators to the U.S. for $3,280 each. It did not deliver. But the Dutch company just announced a new deal with the government. This time, it’s charging roughly $15,000 each.

 

Senate plan coronavirus probe with a focus on China -- Sen. Ron Johnson said the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee would launch an investigation. -- Snipe hunt during an election year.

 

A U.S. Supreme Court first: arguments by teleconference including major one involving Trump

 

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Coronavirus inspires world graffiti

 

The deadly mix of Covid-19, air pollution, and inequality, explained -- Covid-19 is disproportionately affecting black and brown communities in New York and elsewhere. Air pollution seems to be one reason why.

 

The problem with the surgeon general’s controversial coronavirus advice to Americans of color -- Adams’s remarks caused controversy, with his critics accusing him of discounting the effect systemic racism has had on Covid-19 deaths.

 

Our new lockdown game: judging famous people by their bookshelves -- Thank their decorators.

 

He Spent $500,000 to Buy Coronavirus Tests. Health Officials Say They’re Unreliable. -- An ER owner bought 20,000 rapid COVID-19 tests, but a week later they were seized by the federal government. It’s a bitter example of what can go wrong when local governments try to buy supplies on the open market from unknown manufacturers.

 

Lessons Learned From Running ICUs in Disaster Zones -- We talked to a doctor about what hospitals in the throes of the coronavirus epidemic could learn from far less developed hospital systems in times of crisis and came away with three main points.

 

Judge: Alabama can’t prohibit abortion during pandemic

 

McDonald's faces class action over 'pervasive sexual harassment'

 

Our Towns: A New Way for Californians to Serve

 

The Hate Store: Amazon’s Self-Publishing Arm Is a Haven for White Supremacists -- The company gives extremists and neo-Nazis banned from other platforms unprecedented access to a mainstream audience and promotes their books. -- Sell everything and let the market sort it out, right?

 

A U.S. tribes' uphill battle against climate change

 

Wildlife is reclaiming Yosemite National Park: 'The bear population has quadrupled'

 

 

Edited by Cupid Stunt
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Jewel, I’m sure you already know this, but our tax deadline has been extended to June, I think? Not sure exactly what date, though. Also, your employer should have issued your ROE by the end of February - that’s the legal deadline.

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Thanks, everyone.

Payment of taxes has been pushed back until September 1 so that's good at least. 

I spoke with my boss and she called and left a message with her accountant's secretary to see if I need a ROE. I think I need it so the government can verify when my employers stopped paying me, but I don't know. I did apply for the CERB and they didn't ask for one at the moment so that's good since I don't have one from either job at the moment.

And I finally got my cheques in the mail so that's a small relief. And Zappa's food came in so I don't have to worry about her starving soon. 

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I spoke with the director of the dental school. She will have her assistant look at my CV later this week.

She unfortunately can't mail me my certificate because the place that makes it is closed.

She mentioned dentists are going to be considered an essential service soon and will be going back to work. They are supposedly in the process of ordering masks and other equipment. She mentioned trying to place me when they re-open and that honestly freaks me out. The infection rate keeps climbing in Quebec daily and with Gramps, I don't want to go back to work so soon and risk infecting us both. Gah.

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Coronavirus Task Force Briefing -- April 14, 2020

 

US budget deficit totals $743.6 billion over past 6 months

 

The Administration directs halt to payments to World Health Organization during virus pandemic

 

What's wrong with the World Health Organization?

 

The Administration again touts unproven drug while meeting with coronavirus survivors

 

Our Pandemic Summer -- The fight against the coronavirus won’t be over when the U.S. reopens. Here’s how the nation must prepare itself.

 

Congress Won't Return Until May, As Talks Appear To Stall On Small Business Aid

 

The Administration's disdain for ‘Obamacare’ could hamper virus response

 

Arizona releases demographic information on virus deaths

 

As the going gets tough, America returns to experts for help

 

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The howling: Americans let it out from depths of pandemic -- "I'm mad as hell and I'm not gonna' take it anymore!"

 

Gov. Gavin Newsom names six goals that must be met to lift California coronavirus order

 

Health care workers are 10%-20% of US coronavirus cases

 

'Such a simple thing to do': Why positioning Covid-19 patients on their stomachs can save lives

 

US clears first saliva test to help diagnose new virus

 

Coronavirus takes a serious turn in Russia, and Putin no longer radiates confidence

 

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Navy removes 116 from hospital ship after virus infects 7  -- One of many coronavirus' plague ships.

 

Guam worries as sailors from virus-hit ship take over hotels

 

Full contact performance sport entertainment returns, because not enough men have sickened and died -- Pro wrestling ‘essential’ under Florida governor’s order

 

Pandemic raises the stakes in US' partisan religious divide

 

Liberty University sued for not refunding student fees

 

Justice Department takes church’s side in 1st Amendment suit

 

Kansas’ high court rules for governor on religious services

 

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The loneliest road trip: I drove across the country during coronavirus.

 

City Lights Bookstore launches successful GoFundMe campaign

 

37 immigrant children at Chicago-area shelters have COVID-19 -- Related: Detained immigrants plead for masks, protection from virus

 

Lost insurance & need insulin? Makers offer it free or cheap

 

EPA to leave pollution standards unchanged, against recommendations of its own scientists

 

Court throws out Trump rollback of school nutrition rules

 

No bread flour? No problem

 

Why you can’t get a refund for a postponed show from Ticketmaster -- Ticketmaster has faced backlash from consumers seeking refunds for postponed live events. In order for Ticketmaster to issue refunds it needs to work with the event venues, but those venues are closed due to the coronavirus outbreak. Around 90% of all impacted shows are in the process of being rescheduled; 10% have been canceled. For the events that have have been canceled, refunds have been issued.

 

NASCAR’s Larson fired after sponsors walk over N-word slur

 

Federal appeals court ruling allows 'medication abortion' in Texas while legal challenge continues

 

 

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A mural near a hospital in Dallas pays tribute to nurses working during the coronavirus outbreak. -- LM Otero/AP

Pandemics are not wars -- There are better metaphors to describe what’s happening right now.

 

N.Y.C. Death Toll Soars Past 10,000 in Revised Virus Count

 

New York City secures its own supply of 100,000 coronavirus tests per week -- Experts say it likely won’t be enough to ease the city’s stay-at-home order.

 

The 10th Amendment, explained -- The president does not have “total authority” over the states.

 

The Administration's move to end World Health Organization funding amid coronavirus fight criticized by world leaders -- "Now is a time for unity," the chief of the U.N. said, "not a time to cut the resources of the World Health Organization." -- As coronavirus cases near 2 million.

 

Trump touts saliva coronavirus tests after FDA emergency authorization -- The test, developed by a Rutgers lab, could be a safer and faster alternative. -- Related: Prominent scientists have bad news for the White House about coronavirus antibody tests

 

In unprecedented move, Treasury orders the Administration's name printed on stimulus checks

 

Tax provision in coronavirus stimulus will mostly benefit wealthy: Study -- One tax code change in the coronavirus stimulus law could help rich Americans. -- No kidding!

 

CDC, FEMA have created a plan to reopen America. Here’s what it says. -- Lickspittles publish the coronavirus fever dreams of the Administration.

 

FBI warns companies of employees faking coronavirus test results -- Does that include the people that were misdiagnosed with faulty virus tests?

 

'We're living in fear': why US nursing homes became incubators for the coronavirus

 

“Deaths of despair”: The deadly epidemic that predated coronavirus -- Mortality rates were on the rise in the US long before Covid-19. Here’s why.

 

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US may have to endure social distancing until 2022 if no vaccine is quickly found, scientists predict

 

What day is it today? -- The sun coming up in the east and setting in the west is real. Thursday is not.

 

The other hospital workers on the front lines of the pandemic -- Support staff must sometimes rewear contaminated gear and don’t always feel comfortable advocating for themselves.

 

Spike in online ordering due to coronavirus may put workers at greater risk

 

Why the national stockpile wasn’t prepared for this pandemic -- The US government stockpiles medical supplies like ventilators and PPE. Here’s why it failed. -- Related: The United States’ secretive medical stockpile was prepped for a bombing, not a pandemic.

 

Inside the secret US stockpile meant to save us all in a bioterror attack

 

From the library of the CDC -- Receiving, Distributing, and Dispensing Strategic National Assets: A Guide to Preparedness

 

How New York City’s Emergency Ventilator Stockpile Ended Up on the Auction Block -- A 2006 pandemic plan warned that New York City could be short as many as 9,500 ventilators. But the city only acquired a few hundred, which were ultimately scrapped because it couldn’t afford to maintain them.

 

A Second Round of Coronavirus Layoffs Has Begun. No One Is Safe.

 

Oil in the age of coronavirus: a U.S. shale bust like no other

 

Coronavirus delivers record blow to U.S. retail sales in March

 

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As coronavirus empties streets, speeders hit the cheap gas -- It's the Coronavirus Death Race: 2020 Summer of Carnage

 

This is how America drinks now -- Some may be alone, at home, with a glass of boxed wine. -- Drinking wine alone, out of a vase, does not count.

 

Wall Street Turns a Blind Eye to Catastrophic U.S. Economic Data -- A partial shutdown of the economy reveals little about outlook. Economists say unemployment claims best measure of the decline

 

This is the end of the office as we know it -- The pandemic already pushed millions to work from home. Many of them will likely go back to a very different office.

 

Passwords and email addresses for thousands of Zoom accounts are for sale on the dark web -- Zoom users who reuse the same passwords from other accounts can face an ugly unintended consequence.

 

Historic shifts seen in support for mail-in voting

 

Navy secretary sought OK for $243,000 flight to COVID-stricken ship after returning from Guam -- That's a very expensive travel package. Does that include a party of favorites?

 

Starving, angry and cannibalistic: America's rats are getting desperate amid coronavirus pandemic

 

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On fire's anniversary, Notre-Dame's great bell to break its silence

 

How images of the coronavirus are made -- Seeing the virus up close helps us understand it.

 

The unexpected benefits of being weird -- I went in search of outsiders who were thriving in communities where acceptance is hard to come by. It turns out, we might all learn from their approach to life. -- You had to search them out?

 

How to do end-of-life planning during the coronavirus pandemic -- Eight steps for making crucial financial and health care decisions for you and your loved ones.

 

Google’s former CEO hopes the coronavirus makes people more “grateful” for Big Tech -- The government, on the other hand … It's Singalong Wednesday!

 

Edited by Cupid Stunt
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For a laugh, thought I'd share this.

Taneytown, Maryland is a small town about an hour from my home.  Their police department posted this on their Facebook page last night:

Please remember to put pants on before leaving the house to check your mailbox. You know who you are. This is your final warning.

 

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5 minutes ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

For a laugh, thought I'd share this.

Taneytown, Maryland is a small town about an hour from my home.  Their police department posted this on their Facebook page last night:

Please remember to put pants on before leaving the house to check your mailbox. You know who you are. This is your final warning.

1 minute ago, Snaporaz said:

Remind me what pants are again.😎

 

Any attention is better than no attention at all.

 

; )

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U.S. coronavirus death toll tops 30,000, New Yorkers told to wear masks

 

A day fighting the coronavirus: US hospital; staff share hardest moments on shift

 

Coronavirus Task Force Briefing -- April 15, 2020

 

The Administration suggests reopening U.S. economy despite social distancing guidelines -- And says about 29 states could open in early May, but experts warn that a gradual reopening risks a second and third wave of coronavirus infections -- Some lawmakers say the economy is more important than human lives. "It is policymakers' decisions to … say this is the lesser of these two evils and it is not zero evil, but it is the lesser of two evils …" -- <heavy sigh> It's an election year.

 

The Administration told testing is key to reopening during business panel call

 

This is where all 50 states stand on reopening

 

Dr. Anthony Fauci on the "absolute thing" America needs before reopening the economy

 

Model predicts Covid-19 pandemic will 'peter out' by May, but experts are skeptical

 

U.S. Senate seek $30 billion for national coronavirus testing

 

Antibody tests could be the key to reopening Italy's economy -- Related: Antibody testing study underway in Los Angeles County

 

U.S. funds that would have gone to WHO could be given to aid groups: Administration officials -- Friends with their hands out.

 

The Administration threatens to adjourn Congress to get nominees but likely would be impeded by Senate rules

 

Florida's governor keeps hitting new lows in the battle against coronavirus

 

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The brewing state battles over how to hold elections in a pandemic -- Related: As pandemic lingers, U.S. House looking 'very closely' at remote voting

 

Texas judge allows vote by mail amid coronavirus fears

 

Bill Gates says Trump's decision to halt WHO funding is 'as dangerous as it sounds' -- Related: Gates ups pandemic funds to $250 million, says the Administration's World Health Organization move makes 'no sense'

 

IRS’s coronavirus stimulus check tracking tool is not working for some people

 

Wall Street falls on dour economic data, corporate earnings

 

Citigroup profit tumbles 46% on expected credit card losses -- Related: Bank of America gives dour economic outlook, profit falls

 

Oil glut may overwhelm global storage tanks within weeks

 

Did U.S. companies and consumers help fuel the fires in the Amazon rainforest? -- Related: Misinformation about Amazon fires could mean more blazes in 2020

 

Investment giant BlackRock faces critics on climate change, Amazon deforestation

 

Are your kids being radicalized online? -- Related: From "flat Earth" to climate change denial, kids are deluged with fake science. Now teachers are fighting back

 

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Dr. Greg Gulbransen performs a routine checkup with a baby at his pediatric practice in Oyster Bay, New York, April 13. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson

Reuters Photos: At work with a New York pediatrician during coronavirus pandemic

 

'Don't go to the ER': how a New York pediatrician is dealing with the coronavirus outbreak

 

Preexisting staffing shortages and dismal pay are colliding with a crisis that’s testing the limits of the nurses and health aides caring for the sick and elderly. -- ‘The Reality Is, It’s Incredibly Hard’

 

Exercising under quarantine -- Keeping fit while under coronavirus lockdown can be especially difficult. But there is a bunch of exercise equipment you never knew you had at home.

 

The Body Coach -- The Home of Home Workouts

 

Here's why you probably shouldn't share your old senior photos on Facebook -- You need a reason?

 

Coronavirus unmasks Amazon's stumbles at Whole Foods

 

Mideast economies battered by virus, oil prices and conflict

 

Virus becomes latest battle between Iran, US amid tensions

 

Iranian vessels come dangerously close to American military ships: U.S. military

 

 

Edited by Cupid Stunt
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Thing2 got his semester grades back yesterday, and he's 5th in his graduating class, so far. He was pleased, but a little deflated in spite of the results of his hard work. I made a favorite dessert (passionfruit Pavlova) and ordered a boat load of Chinese to celebrate. He's disappointed the Peace Corps is closed to volunteers this fall. He accepted the masters opening in the engineering department, starting next fall semester. No moving or storage of his collection of stuff, and I can have Thing2 around a little while longer.

Thing1 and I made the school meal run today. Fresh apples, flowers and veg at the corner vendor. Thing1 picked up more books to send along with the meals. We stopped at her house to pack up the plants, dust and vacuum, then throw dust covers on the furniture. She grabbed more clothes and books. Thing1 doesn't know when she'll return. No one knows when the lockdown will end. 

We had an alley dance party scheduled tonight, but one of the neighbors went to the hospital with coronavirus, and the rest of the family is under quarantine. It took the air out of the festivities. I called the family to find out if they needed assistance or supplies; they're in good shape for now.

There's a twilight I can't shake. All the small losses are real and valid, constantly nagging about "the time before coronavirus." The separations and restrictions and grief are exhausting. I go through the motions for work; styling my hair and makeup, put on work clothes and earrings and yap on Skype. Type and fill out requests and emails. Talk on the phone, and pray it stops ringing. TV news shrouds our day. I try to run out the anxiety and tension that's settled into my bones. I'm so tired and sleep is filled with mystifying dreams. My staging of the Kübler-Ross model are not following a linear path, wobbling between bargaining and discouragement.

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Oh Cupid Stunt, you spend so much time looking out for others that you are not taking care of yourself. Even here, you pray so beautifully for us when we are grieving or distraught and you give us those informative posts daily. We appreciate the generous person that you are. Please accept my very humble, not so eloquent prayer for you that our mysterious Heavenly Father brings you the spiritual and physical comfort that you are so deserving of. 

Big ((( hugs )) and love ❤️ 

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Artist HIJACK depicting a couple armed with hand sanitizer, rolls of toilet paper and a vacuum cleaner on April 6, 2020 in Los Angeles. 

As governments fumbled their coronavirus response, these four got it right.

 

The Fight for New York -- The Associated Press fanned out across New York City, following residents for 24 hours as they try to survive - and do their part - to save a city under siege by a pandemic.

 

The Coronavirus Economic Reopening Will Be Fragile, Partial and Slow

 

Reopening economy emerges as new political battleground -- Related: Powerful allies propel the Administration's effort to reopen economy

 

The Small-Business Loan Program Is Already Hitting 4 Big Snags -- Related: Government nears lending limit on small business program

 

The Administration points to CDC guidelines as more meatpacking workers infected -- Labor groups clamor for additional restrictions as farmers face a backlog.

 

‘It Really Is the Perfect Storm’: Coronavirus Comes for Rural America -- In rural Washington, hospitals are faltering, stores can’t get supplies and people are staying closer to each other than you’d think.

 

Tyson Foods says 2 dead after virus outbreak at Iowa plant

 

Hot spots erupt in farm belt states where governors insist lockdowns aren’t needed -- Cases in parts of the heartland are starting to spike, raising concern about new hot spots that could quash Trump’s push to reopen the economy.

 

This small Louisiana parish has the highest death rate per capita for coronavirus in the country

 

A caravan of angry Michiganders exposes the complicated politics of the coronavirus shutdown -- Related: The shutdown backlash is coming soon, with a vengeance -- It’s possible to support the stay-at-home order and still deeply resent it.

 

After Anonymous Tip, 17 Bodies Are Found at Nursing Home Hit by Virus -- O_o

 

Judge denies release of Rikers Island inmates over COVID-19 concerns -- Twenty inmates wanted to be released early from the New York City facility. -- Related: Justice Dept. watchdog to inspect prisons amid virus spread

 

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Coronavirus pandemic is changing how colleges, students plan for fall

 

Generation C Has Nowhere to Turn -- Recent history suggests young people could see their careers derailed, finances shattered, and social lives upended.

 

Millennials Are the New Lost Generation -- They’re facing a second once-in-a-lifetime downturn at a crucial moment.

 

A decade of job growth vanishes in less than a month -- Related: More Than 22 Million Americans Filed for Unemployment in the Past Month

 

The Administration's attempt to enlist businesses in reopening push gets off to rocky start 

 

Trade advisor, Peter Navarro, throws elbows for Administration on virus supplies

 

US uses encrypted app to connect with Iranians as coronavirus sweeps their country

 

Military sees no quick exit from ‘new world’ of coronavirus -- Really?

 

Navy May Reinstate Fired Captain to Command of Roosevelt

 

Marine barbershops abuzz with demand for high-and-tight cuts

 

Navy hospital ship in Los Angeles might scale back mission -- The PR stunt is done.

 

Russian and Iranians hassle U.S. military in separate incidents -- Eleven Iranian vessels conducted "dangerous and harassing" approaches of U.S. ships in the international waters of the northern Persian Gulf on Wednesday.

 

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A false-color view shows the total ozone over the Arctic pole between April 2019 and April 6, 2020. Purple and blue mark areas with the least ozone, and the yellow and red mark areas with more ozone. This year, there's significantly less ozone.

Scientists spotted what might be the biggest hole ever recorded in the Arctic's ozone layer

 

Experts: Coronavirus outbreak likely to increase isolation, loneliness -- Already there.

 

US explores possibility that coronavirus started in Chinese lab, not a market -- To launch a pandemic on themselves. Enjoy the Conspiracy Theory Snipe Hunt: No logic, no evidence, but lots of whisper campaigning and racist intrigues. 

 

Coronavirus destroys lungs. But doctors are finding its damage in kidneys, hearts and elsewhere.

 

59 million have lost money on canceled plans due to coronavirus -- Related: Los Angeles mayor says large gatherings like concerts and sporting events may not come back until 2021

 

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Astronomers saw a star dancing around a black hole. And it proves Einstein's theory was right

 

US judge cancels permit for Keystone XL pipeline from Canada

 

Tech companies step up fight against bad coronavirus info -- Now misinformation is a threat to interwebs commerce.

 

Report: Halladay on drugs, doing stunts when plane crashed 

 

 

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10 hours ago, Cupid Stunt said:

Thing2 got his semester grades back yesterday, and he's 5th in his graduating class, so far. He was pleased, but a little deflated in spite of the results of his hard work. I made a favorite dessert (passionfruit Pavlova) and ordered a boat load of Chinese to celebrate. He's disappointed the Peace Corps is closed to volunteers this fall. He accepted the masters opening in the engineering department, starting next fall semester. No moving or storage of his collection of stuff, and I can have Thing2 around a little while longer.

Thing1 and I made the school meal run today. Fresh apples, flowers and veg at the corner vendor. Thing1 picked up more books to send along with the meals. We stopped at her house to pack up the plants, dust and vacuum, then throw dust covers on the furniture. She grabbed more clothes and books. Thing1 doesn't know when she'll return. No one knows when the lockdown will end. 

We had an alley dance party scheduled tonight, but one of the neighbors went to the hospital with coronavirus, and the rest of the family is under quarantine. It took the air out of the festivities. I called the family to find out if they needed assistance or supplies; they're in good shape for now.

There's a twilight I can't shake. All the small losses are real and valid, constantly nagging about "the time before coronavirus." The separations and restrictions and grief are exhausting. I go through the motions for work; styling my hair and makeup, put on work clothes and earrings and yap on Skype. Type and fill out requests and emails. Talk on the phone, and pray it stops ringing. TV news shrouds our day. I try to run out the anxiety and tension that's settled into my bones. I'm so tired and sleep is filled with mystifying dreams. My staging of the Kübler-Ross model are not following a linear path, wobbling between bargaining and discouragement.

Your last paragraph gutted me......in many respects it is how I have felt from the beginning.  I used to be able to push it down and just move on through the day.  I don't sleep, or sleep well when I do sleep, which has really done a number on my daily life.  I'm sleeping in the day, taking fitful naps, and then am wide awake at all hours of the night.  For a time, I stopped watching the news and only reading it at night with several newspapers I have subscriptions to.  I thought it was the politics of it all that had me so upended.  That certainly hasn't helped, but I've had a revelation that it's not that at all.....you mentioned Kübler-Ross.....and last weekend I had an epiphany.

I have been walking through the stages of grief.  I am just deeply, deeply saddened at this point.  So I think right now I might be in the "depression" stage.  I know that I have to find a balance here, but I don't know how and if I do find that balance, does that mean I've given up?  

I try to find things to fill my day, to keep me awake.  I go out and talk to my neighbors, see if they need anything.  I've taken to actually using the fitness equipment I have in my house - LOL!  I don't think it helps to calm my soul, but maybe I'll lose a few pounds or at least not gain 100 because of all the crap I'm eating.  My husband is going through the exact same thing, so as always, we are two peas in a pod and I am so grateful for him.  I just try and feel grateful and take joy in small things, anything, as hard as they are to find sometimes given our predicament. 

I don't have any answers, I just wanted you to know that I heard you and empathize.  Here's to a better afternoon or tomorrow for all of us!

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3 hours ago, PatsyandEddie said:

Oh Cupid Stunt, you spend so much time looking out for others that you are not taking care of yourself. Even here, you pray so beautifully for us when we are grieving or distraught and you give us those informative posts daily. We appreciate the generous person that you are. Please accept my very humble, not so eloquent prayer for you that our mysterious Heavenly Father brings you the spiritual and physical comfort that you are so deserving of. 

Big ((( hugs )) and love ❤️ 

(((PatsyandEddie)))

Thank you so much for your prayers and kind words.

You're right. I'm driving myself to exhaustion, and not sleeping. I have to let some things find their own level, and delegate. Which is what I did today: Thing1 is busy in the garden and patio. Thing2 is handling the school meal delivery today, and dropping off 3D Printer masks at a homeless shelter. Mr.Stunt is taking the afternoon off, and we're going to visit Nana Stunt's putting green; she needs the distraction and so do we. 

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11 hours ago, Cupid Stunt said:

There's a twilight I can't shake. All the small losses are real and valid, constantly nagging about "the time before coronavirus." The separations and restrictions and grief are exhausting. I go through the motions for work; styling my hair and makeup, put on work clothes and earrings and yap on Skype. Type and fill out requests and emails. Talk on the phone, and pray it stops ringing. TV news shrouds our day. I try to run out the anxiety and tension that's settled into my bones. I'm so tired and sleep is filled with mystifying dreams. My staging of the Kübler-Ross model are not following a linear path, wobbling between bargaining and discouragement.

Good for Thing2!

I don't know--I'm kind of a limited sample here. Twilight is an interesting choice of word --there's something claustrophobically grim about every damn day. One CDN news show around six I'm sort of still partly watching but I no longer know why. Except perhaps to see the assholes carrying on about civil liberties and how they're being infringed upon by lockdown enforcement; i.e., some guy skateboarding with his sons in a shut-down area who got the $900 ticket. Aw poor baby... If nothing else, I've lost patience with people who are whining about what they can't do.

You're still doing your hair? Kudos! I inherited my mother's lazy-about-hair gene and get [or used to get at the mo] my friend the hairdresser to wash and blowdry every week--I have super dry hair. That dry hair is handy right now--I haven't seem my hair this, shall we say, moist in forever. The most I get dressed is vaguely business on top, and I mean vaguely, for zoom/webex/whatever meetings each week. I've just wrapped up my and my faculty's semester paperwork and online classes are done. This is also depressing. I'm trying to muster the focus and vestiges of ego needed to do the months of bureaucratic crap ahead of me. Mustering not going well. Outside contact, even online, shrivelling is not a good thing for me.

We're very restricted in how much we can even go onto commercial streets, and my beloved Roncey isn't just a ghost street, it's filled with people lining up, spread apart, outside essential stores that are open.

Anybody who has some spare motivation, let me know please!

 

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Quote

Anybody who has some spare motivation, let me know please!

I haven't worn a bra in weeks. The other day I had to go to the store for a few essentials and I forgot to wear a bra because I basically forgot they exist. The world did not end. I think that gave me a little ...er lift.

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41 minutes ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

Your last paragraph gutted me......in many respects it is how I have felt from the beginning.  I used to be able to push it down and just move on through the day.  I don't sleep, or sleep well when I do sleep, which has really done a number on my daily life.  I'm sleeping in the day, taking fitful naps, and then am wide awake at all hours of the night.  For a time, I stopped watching the news and only reading it at night with several newspapers I have subscriptions to.  I thought it was the politics of it all that had me so upended.  That certainly hasn't helped, but I've had a revelation that it's not that at all.....you mentioned Kübler-Ross.....and last weekend I had an epiphany.

I have been walking through the stages of grief.  I am just deeply, deeply saddened at this point.  So I think right now I might be in the "depression" stage.  I know that I have to find a balance here, but I don't know how and if I do find that balance, does that mean I've given up?  

I try to find things to fill my day, to keep me awake.  I go out and talk to my neighbors, see if they need anything.  I've taken to actually using the fitness equipment I have in my house - LOL!  I don't think it helps to calm my soul, but maybe I'll lose a few pounds or at least not gain 100 because of all the crap I'm eating.  My husband is going through the exact same thing, so as always, we are two peas in a pod and I am so grateful for him.  I just try and feel grateful and take joy in small things, anything, as hard as they are to find sometimes given our predicament. 

I don't have any answers, I just wanted you to know that I heard you and empathize.  Here's to a better afternoon or tomorrow for all of us!

(((loveme)))

I know. I get so sad that the only thing I have left is the daily schedule. It ends up a sort of drudgery, with short-lived pleasures. Like rats in a cage or as pearlite describes it as "claustrophobically grim about every damn day."

The therapy sessions here help me. I'm not alone, and stronger with you. 

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Speaking of canceled event, the one thing that hasn't pulled out yet is San Diego Comic-Con.

I live fairly close to the venue where it takes place and I'm this close to writing the mayor and the governor about this. Conventions at the best of times get unsanitary  and people begin smelling ripe by day damn two. Also, "convention flu" is a thing that happens.

We've had nearly every other major event through September get canceled and if there is any convention that will be able to weather this storm, it's SDCC. Shame on them for putting profits first. If they won't do the right thing, I hope their vendors and panelists do.

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