Hello,
Today, in spite of not wanting to go
anywhere, we went to the office of our tax preparer, signed papers, and wrote
checks. He called yesterday to tell us that the prep work was done. We are
getting money from the state and owe much more to the federal government. We also
wrote a check to pay for his work. We did not wear masks because there was only
one person in the office. We did bring our own pen and hand sanitizer. Ahead of
time we talked about who would open the door. Leroy volunteered. He opened the
two doors and I held the hand sanitizer over his hands when he was done with
that. We did that on the way in and the way out. We did touch papers in order
to sign them; otherwise we touched nothing else in the office. I dreaded going
and spent some time awake last night feeling like this was something we should
not do. After discussion with Leroy, who did not feel the same, although he was
willing to wait until much later with the extended payment schedule, we went. Things
looked better to me in the light of day. Our state is one of only six that does
not have shelter in place restrictions yet. I am ready for that next step and
wonder if we are waiting too long to be of maximum help.
Leroy also talked about stopping at a
grocery store since we would be close, but the lot that we went past had many
cars parked. Not my idea of safety. Another day when supplies are lower would
be better. At that time we might even have things delivered. All these new ways
of being!
In the car on the way to the office, we
listened to an NPR report about the situation in India. We are rich beyond
compare. Most of those people have no way to shelter in place or separate from
others. Praying for miracles for them!
Paula
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Monday, March 30, 2020
Touching My Face Or Not
Hello,
I have stated that I was careful not to touch my face while at the store. Since I have read that the two most important things we can do, along with many other suggestions, are wash our hands and don’t touch your face. I was not in the grocery store any longer than it took me to get my things so it was not so very hard.
As practice when I walk, I try not to touch my face. The walks last at least 45 minutes usually and sometimes longer. It seems it is not long and there is a tickle on my cheek then my nose itches. Once I caught my hand reflectively rising to scratch, but I was able to stop it before it connected. Since I am not touching anything while out and about on these walks, it would probably not be a problem if I did touch my face. To get control of the situation, I have been practicing an almost mindful meditation type thing where I notice, but do not respond. It works sometimes, but not others when the itch or whatever becomes stronger and stronger. Sometimes then I reach up and push up the inside of my coat to tend to it.
The other night when Leroy and I were doing our nightly crossword puzzle he tried not to touch his face. He did a lot of breathing and groaning as he strongly wanted to rest his chin on his hand. How many reflective moves do we have in our supply that involve hands on faces? I also find that I put my hands on my face while seated. Sometimes doing that resting thing as Leroy was wont to do.
Paula
I have stated that I was careful not to touch my face while at the store. Since I have read that the two most important things we can do, along with many other suggestions, are wash our hands and don’t touch your face. I was not in the grocery store any longer than it took me to get my things so it was not so very hard.
As practice when I walk, I try not to touch my face. The walks last at least 45 minutes usually and sometimes longer. It seems it is not long and there is a tickle on my cheek then my nose itches. Once I caught my hand reflectively rising to scratch, but I was able to stop it before it connected. Since I am not touching anything while out and about on these walks, it would probably not be a problem if I did touch my face. To get control of the situation, I have been practicing an almost mindful meditation type thing where I notice, but do not respond. It works sometimes, but not others when the itch or whatever becomes stronger and stronger. Sometimes then I reach up and push up the inside of my coat to tend to it.
The other night when Leroy and I were doing our nightly crossword puzzle he tried not to touch his face. He did a lot of breathing and groaning as he strongly wanted to rest his chin on his hand. How many reflective moves do we have in our supply that involve hands on faces? I also find that I put my hands on my face while seated. Sometimes doing that resting thing as Leroy was wont to do.
Paula
Sunday, March 29, 2020
Grains in My Life
Hello,
I saw a list of foods recommended that we all have to get us through a time of no grocery store trips. One group was whole grains. I felt I had that area covered even before this different way of life got started.
A few months ago the local grocery store had, in it’s marked down cart, a number of pound packages of grains. I finally bought all of them. There was green bamboo rice which we have eaten. It was really white rice that somehow had bamboo with it. There were several packages of black barley we like. We still have a pound and a half left. I had never heard of the Greenwheat Freekeh. I like it, however it is not my favorite. Leroy often wants to eat bread and I see no reason to duplicate the wheat in our diet. We still have five pounds of that. When people have talked about hoarding things I have thought of those packages, but I do not feel I am stopping anyone else from buying it.
We have steel cut oats as well as quick cooking regular oatmeal. I have three boxes of the steel cut, but we use one a week. The regular is in a larger box and I have two of those, but I mostly use it for granola. Probably use about half a box a week is the usage for that. So I feel it does not quite fit in the hoarding category.
The rest of the grains are smaller amounts from about two pounds down to a few ounces. They are millet, regular barley, white rice, brown rice and quinoa. I just looked and quinoa is a seed so should not be on this list. I had planned on stocking up a bit more, but the store was a bit low on brown rice so I did not do that.
Now you know some of my secrets of eating just food rather than processed items.
Paula
I saw a list of foods recommended that we all have to get us through a time of no grocery store trips. One group was whole grains. I felt I had that area covered even before this different way of life got started.
A few months ago the local grocery store had, in it’s marked down cart, a number of pound packages of grains. I finally bought all of them. There was green bamboo rice which we have eaten. It was really white rice that somehow had bamboo with it. There were several packages of black barley we like. We still have a pound and a half left. I had never heard of the Greenwheat Freekeh. I like it, however it is not my favorite. Leroy often wants to eat bread and I see no reason to duplicate the wheat in our diet. We still have five pounds of that. When people have talked about hoarding things I have thought of those packages, but I do not feel I am stopping anyone else from buying it.
We have steel cut oats as well as quick cooking regular oatmeal. I have three boxes of the steel cut, but we use one a week. The regular is in a larger box and I have two of those, but I mostly use it for granola. Probably use about half a box a week is the usage for that. So I feel it does not quite fit in the hoarding category.
The rest of the grains are smaller amounts from about two pounds down to a few ounces. They are millet, regular barley, white rice, brown rice and quinoa. I just looked and quinoa is a seed so should not be on this list. I had planned on stocking up a bit more, but the store was a bit low on brown rice so I did not do that.
Now you know some of my secrets of eating just food rather than processed items.
Paula
Saturday, March 28, 2020
People and Worms
Hello,
This morning when I walked I saw people and worms on the path. Not so many people, but I wanted to tell you how I meet them. The bike trail is about 6 feet wide, at least I know that a vehicle can use it, but they are not supposed to. If there is only one person I move to the extreme edge of my side. My side is usually the same as traffic patterns for this country. If there are two people and one is still in the middle, I step off the path and give them a wider berth. I met one lone runner who was using the middle so again I moved well off the trail. Most people are moving over much the same way that I do and walk on the opposite edge. Generally we smile, wave, or greet each other.
If I meet someone on the sidewalk which I need to use to get to the trail, I often step into the street. Or if I see them in advance and can cross the street, I do that. I still do not see so many in the morning but later traffic picks up. Leroy went for a bike ride in the afternoon and he reported a number of dog walkers and walkers were out.
It had rained last night so there were a number of worms on the trail. We humans disturb all kinds of life forms with our intrusions. I wanted to stop and move all of them to the side, but that would stretch my walk much too long. The trail is wide enough that I wonder if they will manage to survive. Worms are so good for the earth, what a shame that they die on the pavement.
I forgot to attach my violet picture. I get a lot of joy from going in the room and seeing this in all its glory.
Paula
This morning when I walked I saw people and worms on the path. Not so many people, but I wanted to tell you how I meet them. The bike trail is about 6 feet wide, at least I know that a vehicle can use it, but they are not supposed to. If there is only one person I move to the extreme edge of my side. My side is usually the same as traffic patterns for this country. If there are two people and one is still in the middle, I step off the path and give them a wider berth. I met one lone runner who was using the middle so again I moved well off the trail. Most people are moving over much the same way that I do and walk on the opposite edge. Generally we smile, wave, or greet each other.
If I meet someone on the sidewalk which I need to use to get to the trail, I often step into the street. Or if I see them in advance and can cross the street, I do that. I still do not see so many in the morning but later traffic picks up. Leroy went for a bike ride in the afternoon and he reported a number of dog walkers and walkers were out.
It had rained last night so there were a number of worms on the trail. We humans disturb all kinds of life forms with our intrusions. I wanted to stop and move all of them to the side, but that would stretch my walk much too long. The trail is wide enough that I wonder if they will manage to survive. Worms are so good for the earth, what a shame that they die on the pavement.
I forgot to attach my violet picture. I get a lot of joy from going in the room and seeing this in all its glory.
Paula
Friday, March 27, 2020
Walks
Hello,
I crave the outdoors so I am still taking walks to get my 10,000 steps. I have decided to go early rather than late because I see fewer people, not that anyone comes close. We mostly keep to our side of the path and nod or smile as we meet.
I do notice a few spring flowers as well as more and more birds talking away. Generally those birds are up in the trees which have no leaves, but I still have a hard time finding them. I am grateful for their presence and apparent cheer.
Leroy is working diligently, but without much joy on his list of 100 people to call for the museum. He is a bit upset because he did not realize the deadline, to be finished, was so soon. He thought he had an additional week to get the job done.
I am glad I do not have to make those calls, however I have decided to call my extended family as well as old friends just to check in. Since I have that power available all the time, why not just call on a whim? Why wait for these unusual circumstances? Am I still locked into the idea that a phone call is an expensive deal?
Unfortunately it is so easy to slip back into common routines. Guess I wonder if there will be a change or not.
Paula
I crave the outdoors so I am still taking walks to get my 10,000 steps. I have decided to go early rather than late because I see fewer people, not that anyone comes close. We mostly keep to our side of the path and nod or smile as we meet.
I do notice a few spring flowers as well as more and more birds talking away. Generally those birds are up in the trees which have no leaves, but I still have a hard time finding them. I am grateful for their presence and apparent cheer.
Leroy is working diligently, but without much joy on his list of 100 people to call for the museum. He is a bit upset because he did not realize the deadline, to be finished, was so soon. He thought he had an additional week to get the job done.
I am glad I do not have to make those calls, however I have decided to call my extended family as well as old friends just to check in. Since I have that power available all the time, why not just call on a whim? Why wait for these unusual circumstances? Am I still locked into the idea that a phone call is an expensive deal?
Unfortunately it is so easy to slip back into common routines. Guess I wonder if there will be a change or not.
Paula
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Questions and Comments
Hello,
Every day, now that we are home, I need to think about the day of the week and the date as it is not connected so much to the external flow of the week. Leroy and I sometimes note it when we do our devotions, a portion of which I write down with the date attached. I also use the date for these letters which is a great help.
Is a laundry mat considered an essential business? I am grateful for the washer and dryer in our apartment. I seldom use the dryer, but when I want to, it is there. Many of my neighbors need to use the laundry mat. I guess Laundry Mats are still open. I do not know as I do not go there. I have luxury at my finger tips as long as the electricity holds.
Does using so much sanitizer, almost indiscriminately, harm the environment? When home I mostly use soap and water and sanitizer occasionally.
How do semi truck drivers learn to back so accurately? On my walk this morning, I watched a trucker back up to and attach the back end. There was no jockeying for position just a smooth back up to the right spot. I frequently back into parking spaces so I can pull out forward. Seldom, if ever, do I just slide right in. Am I backing up challenged?
This business where the truck was backing is about a block and a half from our house. They are running full tilt with vehicles in the lot 24 hours a day. They deal in the food industry some way, but I am not sure how.
Paula
Every day, now that we are home, I need to think about the day of the week and the date as it is not connected so much to the external flow of the week. Leroy and I sometimes note it when we do our devotions, a portion of which I write down with the date attached. I also use the date for these letters which is a great help.
Is a laundry mat considered an essential business? I am grateful for the washer and dryer in our apartment. I seldom use the dryer, but when I want to, it is there. Many of my neighbors need to use the laundry mat. I guess Laundry Mats are still open. I do not know as I do not go there. I have luxury at my finger tips as long as the electricity holds.
Does using so much sanitizer, almost indiscriminately, harm the environment? When home I mostly use soap and water and sanitizer occasionally.
How do semi truck drivers learn to back so accurately? On my walk this morning, I watched a trucker back up to and attach the back end. There was no jockeying for position just a smooth back up to the right spot. I frequently back into parking spaces so I can pull out forward. Seldom, if ever, do I just slide right in. Am I backing up challenged?
This business where the truck was backing is about a block and a half from our house. They are running full tilt with vehicles in the lot 24 hours a day. They deal in the food industry some way, but I am not sure how.
Paula
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Shopping Again
Hello,
I did not intend to go out again until after next week, but Leroy’s work told him that they expect the worst virus surge in Iowa to happen in the middle to the end of April. We did not have enough food supplies to last that long. So then it becomes a question of should we go now or later when it might be worse. Such a choice! Leroy especially thought it would be better to go now rather than to wait until later. I felt a little freaked out, but I went as they are recommending only one person from a household should go. And Leroy had work to do. I tried to be prepared by having sanitary wipes in a plastic bag along with hand sanitizer. Would you believe, after I was in the store I realized I forgot the face mask Leroy has from carpenter projects.
I certainly tried to stay away from people, but it is not always so easy. Luckily I found everything on my list, perhaps because I do not always buy so many mainstream items.
Not touching my face takes a lot of vigilance. I remember from when I had the pre cancer skin treatment it hurt to touch my face and I became aware of how often I do touch without thinking about it.
When checking out, I chatted a bit with the checker as we have in the past. I apologized for being out, but I needed more things. She replied, “It is ok. You at least are buying (and she waved her hand in the general direction of my selections.) Some people are coming in everyday and just buying a few things. One man comes in and buys one thing every day and we know he does not need it.”
Because I use my own shopping bags I bagged the groceries by the car and washed all bags along with my jacket, jeans, and other clothing. Hopefully I did not catch anything or give anything away while out and about. I expect to be home for three weeks now. We are covered.
Paula
I did not intend to go out again until after next week, but Leroy’s work told him that they expect the worst virus surge in Iowa to happen in the middle to the end of April. We did not have enough food supplies to last that long. So then it becomes a question of should we go now or later when it might be worse. Such a choice! Leroy especially thought it would be better to go now rather than to wait until later. I felt a little freaked out, but I went as they are recommending only one person from a household should go. And Leroy had work to do. I tried to be prepared by having sanitary wipes in a plastic bag along with hand sanitizer. Would you believe, after I was in the store I realized I forgot the face mask Leroy has from carpenter projects.
I certainly tried to stay away from people, but it is not always so easy. Luckily I found everything on my list, perhaps because I do not always buy so many mainstream items.
Not touching my face takes a lot of vigilance. I remember from when I had the pre cancer skin treatment it hurt to touch my face and I became aware of how often I do touch without thinking about it.
When checking out, I chatted a bit with the checker as we have in the past. I apologized for being out, but I needed more things. She replied, “It is ok. You at least are buying (and she waved her hand in the general direction of my selections.) Some people are coming in everyday and just buying a few things. One man comes in and buys one thing every day and we know he does not need it.”
Because I use my own shopping bags I bagged the groceries by the car and washed all bags along with my jacket, jeans, and other clothing. Hopefully I did not catch anything or give anything away while out and about. I expect to be home for three weeks now. We are covered.
Paula
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
The Lost Is Found
Hello,
With our bedroom cleaning project we got out both vacuums which we almost never do. Are we vacuum hoarders? When we lived in a larger home it was nice to have one on each floor. Here we have some struggle to fit them into the space, but I thought I might be prepared for the future. Anyway the floor in the closet was dirty so I took out everything that was on the floor. When putting things away I noticed something hanging toward the back that I could not identify. On extracting it, I was overjoyed to find that it was my “lost” sun hat. When searching for it, months ago, I suspected that I put it in some safe out of the way place. I am a great hider. The next question is: Where will I store it now?
I am grateful for Leroy and his help with this cleaning. He helped move the larger pieces out and in, brushed down the ceiling and the walls, and washed much of the woodwork. It almost makes me wonder, when I see this list, if I did anything although I remember moving around a lot and working up a sweat. So I must have been busy.
I am so pleased my pink cactus is now blooming again. This is the third time this season. It was so loaded with blooms that I did not think it do it again two more times. The white only is only doing two blooms at this time.
Paula
With our bedroom cleaning project we got out both vacuums which we almost never do. Are we vacuum hoarders? When we lived in a larger home it was nice to have one on each floor. Here we have some struggle to fit them into the space, but I thought I might be prepared for the future. Anyway the floor in the closet was dirty so I took out everything that was on the floor. When putting things away I noticed something hanging toward the back that I could not identify. On extracting it, I was overjoyed to find that it was my “lost” sun hat. When searching for it, months ago, I suspected that I put it in some safe out of the way place. I am a great hider. The next question is: Where will I store it now?
I am grateful for Leroy and his help with this cleaning. He helped move the larger pieces out and in, brushed down the ceiling and the walls, and washed much of the woodwork. It almost makes me wonder, when I see this list, if I did anything although I remember moving around a lot and working up a sweat. So I must have been busy.
I am so pleased my pink cactus is now blooming again. This is the third time this season. It was so loaded with blooms that I did not think it do it again two more times. The white only is only doing two blooms at this time.
Paula
Monday, March 23, 2020
Clean a Room?
Hello,
Leroy and I have decided to clean a room from time to time. This would be part of our spring cleaning that seems to have disappeared into the air two or three years ago. Some months ago I cleaned the closet in our bedroom, expecting that we would soon clean the room. Somehow that never happened. So today is the day we will tackle that. We have removed everything from the room and will tackle the cleaning in the afternoon when both of us will be available.
This morning Leroy had an online meeting. Also the museum staff is to call all members to check on them and see how life is going. Leroy has 100 calls to make. He has made a few of them. He thought this morning he would call those in the Eastern Time zone only to learn that he had already called all those people. That put his schedule off.
While he was doing some other work, I called the people we visited in Guatape, Columbia. They are well although quarantined, in part because their son, from the United States, is now visiting. As soon as any virus cases were verified, the country of Columbia mostly shut down. Their area is a tourist area so it is very quiet. They are concerned about the people who depend on tourists to make a living. They also commented that all of the six political parties are working well together to get the best results for the most people.
I also had a long email from a Slovak friend. She also felt that Slovakia shut things down very quickly, hopefully it was soon enough to slow down the spread. She is fortunate to have a daughter who lives in a house with a garden so she can stay there and work in the garden. She lives in Bratislava and if in her apartment, would be quite confined to a small area.
Paula
Leroy and I have decided to clean a room from time to time. This would be part of our spring cleaning that seems to have disappeared into the air two or three years ago. Some months ago I cleaned the closet in our bedroom, expecting that we would soon clean the room. Somehow that never happened. So today is the day we will tackle that. We have removed everything from the room and will tackle the cleaning in the afternoon when both of us will be available.
This morning Leroy had an online meeting. Also the museum staff is to call all members to check on them and see how life is going. Leroy has 100 calls to make. He has made a few of them. He thought this morning he would call those in the Eastern Time zone only to learn that he had already called all those people. That put his schedule off.
While he was doing some other work, I called the people we visited in Guatape, Columbia. They are well although quarantined, in part because their son, from the United States, is now visiting. As soon as any virus cases were verified, the country of Columbia mostly shut down. Their area is a tourist area so it is very quiet. They are concerned about the people who depend on tourists to make a living. They also commented that all of the six political parties are working well together to get the best results for the most people.
I also had a long email from a Slovak friend. She also felt that Slovakia shut things down very quickly, hopefully it was soon enough to slow down the spread. She is fortunate to have a daughter who lives in a house with a garden so she can stay there and work in the garden. She lives in Bratislava and if in her apartment, would be quite confined to a small area.
Paula
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Walking to Church
Hello,
This morning Leroy said, “Our walk to church will be easy and short.”
I thought about the fact that we usually walk that mile to church, but with live streaming that walk would not happen. The next best thing was to wear a path in the carpeting. Sorry downstairs friends! I started off at about our usual departure time. It seemed that I needed a bit of tea from time to time as well as some other unscheduled stops to put something away or adjust the position of something else. What a drag, but I finally made it. Even in cold discomfort, the outdoors wins as the better place to walk.
It was nice to sing the hymns, speak some liturgy, join in prayers, and listen to the sermon. We certainly missed the social contact, but it is interesting to experience a different way of being with God. It helps me to empathize with those who have not been able to get out for a long time. With this first attempt using this technology, some had difficulty accessing the service. Leroy and I could get on but it would blip from time to time. After it was over people could chat, but somehow we clicked off and could not get back to that area. Learning, learning all the time we are learning. I am not complaining just noting that change can bring challenges.
We did go out this afternoon and walk. I now only need 400 more steps to reach 10,000. That should be fairly easy. At least it will not take me 15 minutes. We also did a little bit of tai chi this morning. It feels so good to move more parts of the body.
Paula
This morning Leroy said, “Our walk to church will be easy and short.”
I thought about the fact that we usually walk that mile to church, but with live streaming that walk would not happen. The next best thing was to wear a path in the carpeting. Sorry downstairs friends! I started off at about our usual departure time. It seemed that I needed a bit of tea from time to time as well as some other unscheduled stops to put something away or adjust the position of something else. What a drag, but I finally made it. Even in cold discomfort, the outdoors wins as the better place to walk.
It was nice to sing the hymns, speak some liturgy, join in prayers, and listen to the sermon. We certainly missed the social contact, but it is interesting to experience a different way of being with God. It helps me to empathize with those who have not been able to get out for a long time. With this first attempt using this technology, some had difficulty accessing the service. Leroy and I could get on but it would blip from time to time. After it was over people could chat, but somehow we clicked off and could not get back to that area. Learning, learning all the time we are learning. I am not complaining just noting that change can bring challenges.
We did go out this afternoon and walk. I now only need 400 more steps to reach 10,000. That should be fairly easy. At least it will not take me 15 minutes. We also did a little bit of tai chi this morning. It feels so good to move more parts of the body.
Paula
Saturday, March 21, 2020
Life Goes On
Hello,
I have a spiritual mentor. We talked about how to meet since we have usually met at her house. She said, “I am fine with still having you come here, but if you are not comfortable we can figure out something else.”
I told her about my shopping trip that was like a serious mission. She asked if I had gotten everything I needed. When I told her I had not gotten disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer she said, “I have a habit of stockpiling and hording those things even before all of this came up. I am going out in a little bit and I can share some with you. I will call when I am at your house and I can hand it off.”
She drove up, had the things in a plastic bag, stretched her arm of the window, and I took it. Life has certainly changed. What a gift! Values do change.
Later we did a video chat for our meeting and we have set up another for next month since we do not feel this will be over before that.
I have finished the book I had from the library. All that is in my book basket are lonely bookmarks. I do have three books on the shelf that I thought I wanted to read, but now apparently is the time when they will look more attractive than they have in the past.
Leroy is working on his last library book. He also has three books around here so we will do those before we move to ebooks. We both like paper better, but when we need, to we can change.
I will have to say we have watched a bit more TV and the amount of ads astonish me. I do not have much patience for that.
Paula
I have a spiritual mentor. We talked about how to meet since we have usually met at her house. She said, “I am fine with still having you come here, but if you are not comfortable we can figure out something else.”
I told her about my shopping trip that was like a serious mission. She asked if I had gotten everything I needed. When I told her I had not gotten disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer she said, “I have a habit of stockpiling and hording those things even before all of this came up. I am going out in a little bit and I can share some with you. I will call when I am at your house and I can hand it off.”
She drove up, had the things in a plastic bag, stretched her arm of the window, and I took it. Life has certainly changed. What a gift! Values do change.
Later we did a video chat for our meeting and we have set up another for next month since we do not feel this will be over before that.
I have finished the book I had from the library. All that is in my book basket are lonely bookmarks. I do have three books on the shelf that I thought I wanted to read, but now apparently is the time when they will look more attractive than they have in the past.
Leroy is working on his last library book. He also has three books around here so we will do those before we move to ebooks. We both like paper better, but when we need, to we can change.
I will have to say we have watched a bit more TV and the amount of ads astonish me. I do not have much patience for that.
Paula
Friday, March 20, 2020
Shopping Again
Hello,
When coming home from the shopping trip two days ago, at a stop sign there was a rather loud noise as if someone had lost a muffler. Leroy said, “Was that us?”
I had no idea, but thought, “Surely not.”
However as we moved on there was a noise that seemed to go with us in a rather rhythmical pattern. At the next stop sign there was again that noise, but not quite as loud. Going into the garage it was still there, but not so much. We had a number of groceries to put away so we ignored the vehicle. It was raining and our garage is a ways from the house so Leroy did not venture out again and then forgot about it. I had been in the garage for something else and looked at the wheel where I thought the sound might be coming from, but could seen nothing that I knew anything about. You realize that I do not know what I was looking for, but I wondered if something had been caught in the wheel. Leroy forgot about it again yesterday.
This morning he took that vehicle for his last work run and he said, “There was no noise.” Hopefully his hearing is good because it is not going to have any attention now.
Yesterday I went to another store where I get my flour. They had a special early hour for seniors. I was quite pleased that rubber gloves were available for all customers as was hand sanitizer. In the bulk food area they requested that the gloves be used. They had glove places scattered throughout the store. I believe this will be my last trip out in the community for some time to come. As I cannot think of anything else that we do not have here. Seems to me we will “make do”.
Paula
When coming home from the shopping trip two days ago, at a stop sign there was a rather loud noise as if someone had lost a muffler. Leroy said, “Was that us?”
I had no idea, but thought, “Surely not.”
However as we moved on there was a noise that seemed to go with us in a rather rhythmical pattern. At the next stop sign there was again that noise, but not quite as loud. Going into the garage it was still there, but not so much. We had a number of groceries to put away so we ignored the vehicle. It was raining and our garage is a ways from the house so Leroy did not venture out again and then forgot about it. I had been in the garage for something else and looked at the wheel where I thought the sound might be coming from, but could seen nothing that I knew anything about. You realize that I do not know what I was looking for, but I wondered if something had been caught in the wheel. Leroy forgot about it again yesterday.
This morning he took that vehicle for his last work run and he said, “There was no noise.” Hopefully his hearing is good because it is not going to have any attention now.
Yesterday I went to another store where I get my flour. They had a special early hour for seniors. I was quite pleased that rubber gloves were available for all customers as was hand sanitizer. In the bulk food area they requested that the gloves be used. They had glove places scattered throughout the store. I believe this will be my last trip out in the community for some time to come. As I cannot think of anything else that we do not have here. Seems to me we will “make do”.
Paula
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Will I be Busy?
Hello,
At least I am not alone with Leroy here too. Once in a while he even talks to me. However he is working at least six hours a day. So much of the time he is occupied. He will go back in to work tomorrow to bring home more things as the building will be totally closed next week. I guess you could say he is getting prepared.
We did a shopping trip yesterday morning. It was interesting in the big box store, where hand sanitizer, alcohol, and toilet paper were still not on the shelf, there were few customers. We then went to a grocery store that was much busier than I thought it would be. We tried to stay a respectful distance from people and managed quite well until we checked out. I am quite grateful for those workers who can still come to work.
For some reason in the middle of the store I thought about how some of the people I was seeing could be dead in a relatively short while. Somehow it made them seem so human. I offered up some prayers. I hope that coming out of all this we as a culture will realize that we are all dependent on one another. Kindness and courtesy should rule.
People were so serious and did not spend much time loitering, but seemed to be on a mission. Soon after we came in the door, Leroy noticed that someone had a package of toilet paper so he said just as he was walking off, “You start getting the other things and I will get some toilet paper.”
I thought that was a bit silly, but by the time I got to that aisle it was all gone. Smart Leroy? Someone in the parking lot said they would take our cart back for us. As they were waiting for it they remarked about how rude so many people are, cutting in line, etc. I was grateful that we did not see any of that.
Paula
At least I am not alone with Leroy here too. Once in a while he even talks to me. However he is working at least six hours a day. So much of the time he is occupied. He will go back in to work tomorrow to bring home more things as the building will be totally closed next week. I guess you could say he is getting prepared.
We did a shopping trip yesterday morning. It was interesting in the big box store, where hand sanitizer, alcohol, and toilet paper were still not on the shelf, there were few customers. We then went to a grocery store that was much busier than I thought it would be. We tried to stay a respectful distance from people and managed quite well until we checked out. I am quite grateful for those workers who can still come to work.
For some reason in the middle of the store I thought about how some of the people I was seeing could be dead in a relatively short while. Somehow it made them seem so human. I offered up some prayers. I hope that coming out of all this we as a culture will realize that we are all dependent on one another. Kindness and courtesy should rule.
People were so serious and did not spend much time loitering, but seemed to be on a mission. Soon after we came in the door, Leroy noticed that someone had a package of toilet paper so he said just as he was walking off, “You start getting the other things and I will get some toilet paper.”
I thought that was a bit silly, but by the time I got to that aisle it was all gone. Smart Leroy? Someone in the parking lot said they would take our cart back for us. As they were waiting for it they remarked about how rude so many people are, cutting in line, etc. I was grateful that we did not see any of that.
Paula
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Settling In
Hello,
We have now lived in this place for eight years. As I have said before we only expected to stay a year and a half. Obviously we know little about the path our lives will take.
Today Leroy went to the museum to bring home a computer as well as some items to catalog. He is all set up and did a little of that today.
I went out this morning and picked up trash on my block. I wore gloves and never touched my face. Also the trash has probably been there since some snow in January certainly it was not new stuff. So besides the virus I do not want to touch it because it is quite unsavory. I do wish smokers would stop putting butts on the ground. I understand that is not good for the environment. Also they are hard to pick up when wearing thick gloves. I got four plastic grocery type bags full. We had a bag from the city that we can fill with trash from the streets, but that is now full so I put two bags in the regular garbage. We do not have so much garbage each week so it is ok.
To get my 10,000 steps I did take a walk on the bike trail in the nice afternoon sun. Today there were more people out. Yesterday I only met three, today it was about 13.
Life is certainly taking a new path now. We are trying to be flexible and go with what is best for all. I am grateful for phones, computers and TV’s. What a wealth of connections we have available!
Paula
We have now lived in this place for eight years. As I have said before we only expected to stay a year and a half. Obviously we know little about the path our lives will take.
Today Leroy went to the museum to bring home a computer as well as some items to catalog. He is all set up and did a little of that today.
I went out this morning and picked up trash on my block. I wore gloves and never touched my face. Also the trash has probably been there since some snow in January certainly it was not new stuff. So besides the virus I do not want to touch it because it is quite unsavory. I do wish smokers would stop putting butts on the ground. I understand that is not good for the environment. Also they are hard to pick up when wearing thick gloves. I got four plastic grocery type bags full. We had a bag from the city that we can fill with trash from the streets, but that is now full so I put two bags in the regular garbage. We do not have so much garbage each week so it is ok.
To get my 10,000 steps I did take a walk on the bike trail in the nice afternoon sun. Today there were more people out. Yesterday I only met three, today it was about 13.
Life is certainly taking a new path now. We are trying to be flexible and go with what is best for all. I am grateful for phones, computers and TV’s. What a wealth of connections we have available!
Paula
Monday, March 16, 2020
At Home
Hello,
We are at home as I suspect many of you are also. I guess Leroy and I can handle so much togetherness. I am grateful that our apartment has enough space that we can stay away from each other at least some of the time.
My library is closed. My boss gave me the option to come in and catalog if I wanted as there are still some items on my desk that need to be done. I chose to stay home instead. A bigger lure was the idea of getting more books as I only have one library book at home. There are two other books on a shelf at home that I thought I might like to read, but have not felt like it since I got them. I suspect they will become more attractive as time goes on. I have kept them around for that time when I could not go to the library, even though a part of me felt the no library day would never come. To think it is the new reality.
Leroy and I took a long walk this afternoon. There were almost no people out and about except at the taverns. I believe that will stop soon as they are closing more public meeting places.
Leroy is spending a lot of time working on his stamp collection. Perhaps I should have some type of hobby as well, but I cannot imagine what that could be.
One of the local grocery stores is open an hour early for seniors three days of the week. I believe I will go on Thursday. They said the shelves would be stocked and a serious cleaning accomplished.
Leroy is going to work tomorrow so he can bring home work and just do it here. The museum has closed.
Paula
We are at home as I suspect many of you are also. I guess Leroy and I can handle so much togetherness. I am grateful that our apartment has enough space that we can stay away from each other at least some of the time.
My library is closed. My boss gave me the option to come in and catalog if I wanted as there are still some items on my desk that need to be done. I chose to stay home instead. A bigger lure was the idea of getting more books as I only have one library book at home. There are two other books on a shelf at home that I thought I might like to read, but have not felt like it since I got them. I suspect they will become more attractive as time goes on. I have kept them around for that time when I could not go to the library, even though a part of me felt the no library day would never come. To think it is the new reality.
Leroy and I took a long walk this afternoon. There were almost no people out and about except at the taverns. I believe that will stop soon as they are closing more public meeting places.
Leroy is spending a lot of time working on his stamp collection. Perhaps I should have some type of hobby as well, but I cannot imagine what that could be.
One of the local grocery stores is open an hour early for seniors three days of the week. I believe I will go on Thursday. They said the shelves would be stocked and a serious cleaning accomplished.
Leroy is going to work tomorrow so he can bring home work and just do it here. The museum has closed.
Paula
Saturday, March 14, 2020
Shopping
Hello,
Yesterday Leroy and I went shopping because Friday is my regular day. We got most things, but no toilet paper was to found at the two stores where we looked. It amazes me that toilet paper seems to be the most needed item in this time of looking at spending more time around the house. For me it was just on my list. We had no trouble getting any fruits or veggies that we wanted.
I thought I would make another shopping trip later, Wednesday, to the store where I get the items for making granola as some of those are low. Perhaps then I will know if there are other things needed.
Leroy and I went out to deliver the neighborhood news letter yesterday. We came home before it was finished thinking today would be a good day to complete the task. This morning it started snowing and we think there is about half an inch out there. Certainly it is not a good time to put a piece of paper on a front step even if it is beautiful.
I washed clothes this morning and hung them out before the snow came. I kept thinking the snow would stop, but it is still snowing. However we have retrieved the clothes after shaking them to release the snow to the ground.
Leroy got a new wireless bike computer. He brought his bike in and worked on it in the kitchen. After some huffing and puffing it is finished and back in the garage. He has some spatial issues so it took some backtracking to get it done. At least he keeps trying.
Paula
Yesterday Leroy and I went shopping because Friday is my regular day. We got most things, but no toilet paper was to found at the two stores where we looked. It amazes me that toilet paper seems to be the most needed item in this time of looking at spending more time around the house. For me it was just on my list. We had no trouble getting any fruits or veggies that we wanted.
I thought I would make another shopping trip later, Wednesday, to the store where I get the items for making granola as some of those are low. Perhaps then I will know if there are other things needed.
Leroy and I went out to deliver the neighborhood news letter yesterday. We came home before it was finished thinking today would be a good day to complete the task. This morning it started snowing and we think there is about half an inch out there. Certainly it is not a good time to put a piece of paper on a front step even if it is beautiful.
I washed clothes this morning and hung them out before the snow came. I kept thinking the snow would stop, but it is still snowing. However we have retrieved the clothes after shaking them to release the snow to the ground.
Leroy got a new wireless bike computer. He brought his bike in and worked on it in the kitchen. After some huffing and puffing it is finished and back in the garage. He has some spatial issues so it took some backtracking to get it done. At least he keeps trying.
Paula
Wednesday, March 11, 2020
Money Matters
Hello,
We turned in our papers for taxes this morning. I know our children think we should do the taxes some cheaper, easier way but Leroy commented that because ours are a bit more bother because of pensions and Leroy being a minister, he is happy to pay someone to do it. So our part of that task is finished for another year. We also find it convenient to get some advice from this man. I guess we pay for peace of mind.
This morning I called the pension place for which I now work. Because my predicted monthly amount goes up as long as I work, I thought I should not be getting the monthly amount. Instead I learned I should have been getting the benefits since I turned 70 as I can still work and receive moneys. I will apply now and get it as soon as possible. Unfortunately I will not get those two years that I have missed. Oops it does not work as Leroy’s did which is that he only got it when he stopped working for the church.
Oh well, I tell myself, “It is only money, not some important body part that no longer works.”
I will have to learn to be more aggressive about asking questions. The trouble is to know to ask rather than assume I know the answer.
Paula
We turned in our papers for taxes this morning. I know our children think we should do the taxes some cheaper, easier way but Leroy commented that because ours are a bit more bother because of pensions and Leroy being a minister, he is happy to pay someone to do it. So our part of that task is finished for another year. We also find it convenient to get some advice from this man. I guess we pay for peace of mind.
This morning I called the pension place for which I now work. Because my predicted monthly amount goes up as long as I work, I thought I should not be getting the monthly amount. Instead I learned I should have been getting the benefits since I turned 70 as I can still work and receive moneys. I will apply now and get it as soon as possible. Unfortunately I will not get those two years that I have missed. Oops it does not work as Leroy’s did which is that he only got it when he stopped working for the church.
Oh well, I tell myself, “It is only money, not some important body part that no longer works.”
I will have to learn to be more aggressive about asking questions. The trouble is to know to ask rather than assume I know the answer.
Paula
Monday, March 9, 2020
Earning His Keep
Hello,
Leroy put in some time this morning by going through the two file drawers and eliminating much that we no longer need to have on file. He not only pulled it out, but he shredded that which needed shredding. I have randomly gone through this or that file, but not the entire system. Does that mean we are ready to move since the files will not be so heavy? Probably not since just yesterday, Leroy talked about staying here for a few more years. I would say that neither of us is ready to move any time soon.
Just yesterday we came back from a MN visit for grandson’s birthday celebration. We had not been there since early in the fall. For some reason both Leroy and I had forgotten the details of the kitchen renovation that took place upstairs. This was especially true of where things were stored in the cupboard. Even though Brian said we did use these areas since we were in charge of meals, etc. while they were gone Is that a sign of short term memory loss?
It was nice to be there for good weather even though they have a lot more snow on the ground. We think northern Iowa and southern MN seemed to have the most.
We saw a bald headed eagle resting in a low tree so we could get a nice look at it as we sped past.
It is good to be home even though we like to visit. Now we have no trips planned so we expect to be here for some time.
Paula
Leroy put in some time this morning by going through the two file drawers and eliminating much that we no longer need to have on file. He not only pulled it out, but he shredded that which needed shredding. I have randomly gone through this or that file, but not the entire system. Does that mean we are ready to move since the files will not be so heavy? Probably not since just yesterday, Leroy talked about staying here for a few more years. I would say that neither of us is ready to move any time soon.
Just yesterday we came back from a MN visit for grandson’s birthday celebration. We had not been there since early in the fall. For some reason both Leroy and I had forgotten the details of the kitchen renovation that took place upstairs. This was especially true of where things were stored in the cupboard. Even though Brian said we did use these areas since we were in charge of meals, etc. while they were gone Is that a sign of short term memory loss?
It was nice to be there for good weather even though they have a lot more snow on the ground. We think northern Iowa and southern MN seemed to have the most.
We saw a bald headed eagle resting in a low tree so we could get a nice look at it as we sped past.
It is good to be home even though we like to visit. Now we have no trips planned so we expect to be here for some time.
Paula
Wednesday, March 4, 2020
Tired
Hello,
I am much better, but tired seems to be my middle name. I worked yesterday only to learn that I was alone for the evening because it was a local election and my co worker works for the county election. Because a school bond was on the ballot the library was quite busy. The library meeting room is used for elections. Certainly it was not as busy as a national election, but it was enough.
I went out this afternoon to walk, but did not get so far before I headed home. We have church and choir practice tonight so I will have a longer walk then. Leroy might have to drag me.
It is so beautiful outside. Certainly signs of spring. Leroy and I are going to MN for Logan’s birthday celebration. It always makes we wonder, Do we trust the weather prediction or should I put in a pair of boots, just in case? Because we are traveling by car, I will probably put some boots in the car as we have extravagant room.
At least I have some bread rising since we are totally out. Making bread is a satisfying job for me
Tomorrow I work during the day; will that be less tiring than working at night? It was nice to visit with so many people yesterday. It seems that everything has some pluses and minuses.
Paula
I am much better, but tired seems to be my middle name. I worked yesterday only to learn that I was alone for the evening because it was a local election and my co worker works for the county election. Because a school bond was on the ballot the library was quite busy. The library meeting room is used for elections. Certainly it was not as busy as a national election, but it was enough.
I went out this afternoon to walk, but did not get so far before I headed home. We have church and choir practice tonight so I will have a longer walk then. Leroy might have to drag me.
It is so beautiful outside. Certainly signs of spring. Leroy and I are going to MN for Logan’s birthday celebration. It always makes we wonder, Do we trust the weather prediction or should I put in a pair of boots, just in case? Because we are traveling by car, I will probably put some boots in the car as we have extravagant room.
At least I have some bread rising since we are totally out. Making bread is a satisfying job for me
Tomorrow I work during the day; will that be less tiring than working at night? It was nice to visit with so many people yesterday. It seems that everything has some pluses and minuses.
Paula
Monday, March 2, 2020
Feeling Better
Hello,
Today is a better day. Besides, it surely is the end of my being sick, Leroy worked on some papers for taxes today. It is great to get that all organized and ready to meet with our tax guy. That meeting will happen next week.
We are going to MN for the weekend as Logan is celebrating his ninth birthday. It does not seem possible that we have such old grandchildren and no babies or toddlers.
Leroy just got back from walking to the car insurance office to pay that bill for another six months. Good to get these errands done. He tells me it is brisk out there. I should have possibly walked there as well. I understand cold is good for our immune system, if you can believe everything you read. We have often walked in cold weather and not suffered ill effects so I believe it is good.
Leroy did comment, “We would save a lot of money if we only had one car.”
However as long as we both work and the weather is uncooperative we “need” two cars.
I wish my work were closer, but I like this particular job so I do not want to change. Last evening Leroy commented, “When we decide where we are moving, I am going to look for another part time job.”
I was quite surprised to hear that because he has always talked about volunteering. He must be open to a variety of scenarios. I also think of volunteering, but I suppose it could be for money. I just feel that the money would tie us down much more seriously. At any rate we are looking for the sign to know just where to go and what to do.
Paula
Today is a better day. Besides, it surely is the end of my being sick, Leroy worked on some papers for taxes today. It is great to get that all organized and ready to meet with our tax guy. That meeting will happen next week.
We are going to MN for the weekend as Logan is celebrating his ninth birthday. It does not seem possible that we have such old grandchildren and no babies or toddlers.
Leroy just got back from walking to the car insurance office to pay that bill for another six months. Good to get these errands done. He tells me it is brisk out there. I should have possibly walked there as well. I understand cold is good for our immune system, if you can believe everything you read. We have often walked in cold weather and not suffered ill effects so I believe it is good.
Leroy did comment, “We would save a lot of money if we only had one car.”
However as long as we both work and the weather is uncooperative we “need” two cars.
I wish my work were closer, but I like this particular job so I do not want to change. Last evening Leroy commented, “When we decide where we are moving, I am going to look for another part time job.”
I was quite surprised to hear that because he has always talked about volunteering. He must be open to a variety of scenarios. I also think of volunteering, but I suppose it could be for money. I just feel that the money would tie us down much more seriously. At any rate we are looking for the sign to know just where to go and what to do.
Paula
Sunday, March 1, 2020
About the Same
Hello,
I feel good for some time, but then it all seems to go back for a while. Leroy is doing most of the meals and dishes so that helps me quite a lot, but I am getting bored. Mostly I do not watch TV. I flipped through channels, but did not find anything appealing. I wish I had brought home some funny movies. Laughter is good for the soul. Someday we might have to get one of the video streaming services. I believe Leroy will be there before I am, but he does not make any statements in that direction. We ordered the movie, Strictly Ballroom, because we saw that as a stage play while in UT. The play and the movie were quite close in execution. I suppose it is easier to stay together than with a book and a play.
Leroy officiated at a funeral yesterday. It has been a while since he has done that. I though he seemed nervous. When he came home he was much more relaxed, feeling that it all went well. He does not do official tasks for the church now that he is retired, but this was a unique set of circumstances with a person who knew him, but was not a member of a church in this area.
This afternoon it was so nice and warm that Leroy took a bike ride. He came back all smiles and said, “It is so nice out.”
He mostly stayed on the bike trail that goes close to our home. It is so nice to have this trial just about three blocks away. We will certainly miss that when we leave.
I realized how much we will miss the squirrels if the large old tree next door is ever cut down. They provide a nice amount of entertainment with their antics.
Paula
I feel good for some time, but then it all seems to go back for a while. Leroy is doing most of the meals and dishes so that helps me quite a lot, but I am getting bored. Mostly I do not watch TV. I flipped through channels, but did not find anything appealing. I wish I had brought home some funny movies. Laughter is good for the soul. Someday we might have to get one of the video streaming services. I believe Leroy will be there before I am, but he does not make any statements in that direction. We ordered the movie, Strictly Ballroom, because we saw that as a stage play while in UT. The play and the movie were quite close in execution. I suppose it is easier to stay together than with a book and a play.
Leroy officiated at a funeral yesterday. It has been a while since he has done that. I though he seemed nervous. When he came home he was much more relaxed, feeling that it all went well. He does not do official tasks for the church now that he is retired, but this was a unique set of circumstances with a person who knew him, but was not a member of a church in this area.
This afternoon it was so nice and warm that Leroy took a bike ride. He came back all smiles and said, “It is so nice out.”
He mostly stayed on the bike trail that goes close to our home. It is so nice to have this trial just about three blocks away. We will certainly miss that when we leave.
I realized how much we will miss the squirrels if the large old tree next door is ever cut down. They provide a nice amount of entertainment with their antics.
Paula
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