Day 7 - 274 -- Technology Attacks

Today was cloudy with wind, but still mid-20s with humidity making it feel hotter. That is three days in a row in late September with summery temperatures. Even the overnight lows were warmer than usual at this time of year. This was the only day with full cloud cover, though, and rain into the evening. 

The day included a fun guest lecture for a university course. I did this from my living room and not in front a a class of masked students while I wore a mask, too. The software platform used worked well. The chat feature showed up as little word bubbles to the right of the screen. It was great to see their names with their comments and responses to my questions. This is the one thing that I miss being retired -- interacting with students in a classroom setting. It was always invigorating and I loved the co-learning processes -- they taught me many things, too. <smile> 

Frustrations exploded often over the past 24+ hours as the wifi connections to the house seem to be going on and off. I rebooted the system twice yesterday -- once when the phone died in mid-conversatin and once during a video chat. Today the television would not hold signal and I rebooted twice in 10 minutes. The signal held during the lecture thankfully, but left twice into the late afternoon and once into the evening. I know that I will have to contact the service provider and see what they can do from their end. This shouldn't keep happening and I've not had this occur more than once ever. I dislike the thought of being on the phone for an hour while they check the list of things that it couldn't possible be and then get to a big reboot -- at which time the phone ceases to function, so they need to call the cell which works on an external system. I have to feel strong enough to do that call or I'll just find myself getting angry, which serves no purpose in that situation. <sigh> 

The inability to have technology working for me had me thinking of how much we rely on these services. Granted, we pay handsomely for the privilege <sigh>. A song lyric that fit my feelings today also speaks about some earlier communication technologies. Stay safe. Enjoy!   

Satisfaction -- The Rolling Stones

Day 7 - 273 -- Surprising Perspective

Today I found myself listening to the universe and realized that while things may seem not to be what we wished for, with some closer looks we can see that responses to our requests have arrived. They just look different than expected during these pandemic times. This change in perspective meant a lot to me. It helped me to see things from a more positive place. There is more that I wish for, but noticing what I have right now brings me back to the present. It reminded me of my friend who told me many times --  and well into her 90s -- not to wish my life away. Be present. Still make plans or head along a path you choose, but notice the journey and not just whatever might be on that distant horizon. 

A song that fits the day very well comes from a hip hop artist from down the highway just outside Halifax. The message is fantastic. Stay safe. Enjoy!

I've been waiting on some good news -- Classified ft. Breagh MacKinnon

Day 7 - 272 -- Unexpected Wisdom

While cleaning and working around the house, I often have the television or music playing in the background.Today it was the TV. I'd been listening to something and then continued work once that was over. While deep into a cleaning task, I stopped when I'd heard part of something interesting coming from the screen in a movie I didn't realize was playing. Luckily, I have a PVR so instant replay works. The phrase came from the character 'Soothsayer' in the animated movie Kung Foo Panda II. The pearl of wisdom dropped before Po, the panda warrior, was stunning. 

    "Your story may not have been a happy beginning; It doesn't make you who you are. It is the rest of the story -- who you choose to be."

Wow! Messages arrive from the most unlikely places <smile>. Much of this blog has been a journey of self discovery and learning new perspectives. This small line in an animated movie reinforced the work I've done and continue to do. Finding the happiness, contentment, and peace takes effort but it is so worth it. So, I'll leave you with a question today. Who do you want to be? 

A great lyric about finding these places in our lives. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Living in the Moment -- Jason Mraz 

Day 7 - 271 -- Encountering the Quiet

 The day began with bright sunshine and proceeded with warmer temperatures. The house gets darker earlier these days. When it happened today, I again thought that clouds must have returned, but it was just the shorter days announcing their presence. 

I had a quiet indoor day finishing laundry and making a grocery list. The pantry is missing a number of needed ingredients to do the cooking I'd planned for the weekend -- so that was deferred to later in the week. Several other tasks must be completed into the early part of the week. So, it feels like a procrastination weekend -- or at least one that became less productive than I might have hoped it would be. 

The one thing I realized this evening was that the day was quieter outside the house than usual on a warm sunny day. It felt good to have things quiet and peaceful. That brought a song to mind -- Imagine that! <grin> Stay safe. Enjoy! 

So Quiet in Here -- Van Morrison

Day 7 - 270 -- Random Thoughts

Another sunny warm day -- the best way to begin autumn with warm days and cool nights. Weekend chores began with laundry and bits of cleaning. I ran out to get milk and eggs and came across a friend at the store. We stood and chatted for close to 30 minutes. Lots happening with her for the next few weeks. We even talked about plans for Thanksgiving dinner that will soon be upon us.  Later in the afternoon, I went for a walk. During that time, several random thoughts flitted about in my brain. 

-- While waiting for a light during my walk this evening, I looked up at the sky to see a jet contrail heading southwest. I smiled but there was also a wistfulness in wishing to fly to visit people and places. 

-- On the return journey, the moon was visible and was just past half-moon phase. Having risen early in the sky before sunset, it looked wonderful. I enjoy seeing the moon, and hadn't for a while due to cloudier days of the past many days. 

 -- Yesterday and today during walks I noticed a hint of orange in some trees and a few larger splashes of orange and red. I enjoy autumn for the colour changes and the cooler nights -- the latter make sleeping easier. It does mean winter is lurking in the distance, but for now it will look spectacular. 

A song with wistful lyrics seemed appropriate for the thoughts of the day. This one also has some great lines about the concept of time. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Timeless Skies -- Al Stewart 

Day 7 - 269 -- Sunny Positivity

 Another glorious bright sunny day appeared today. After such a lengthy period of cloud and greyness over the past two weeks, days like this feel fantastic. During the day, I went for a walk and sat in the sun for a visit with a friend. We are planning another longer walk for next week on a day where weather permits. I enjoyed getting out with someone else to walk. The social connections along with the relaxation that comes with walking for me, seem to be a perfect combination. I'm still avoiding hills to help the bursitis exit. This is no easy feat given the town is built in the hills. So, routes are limited, but I've found some routes and tracks that are the most level areas in town.  

Just before sunset, I headed out to the grocery store to pick up a few items. The gas station was not blocked off this week, so I filled the car. Then headed to the bakery for a loaf of bread. So, all the little errands were struck off the 'to do' list! <smile>.  Overall, the day felt positive and some tasks were done. I will take that as a win for today <smile>. 

Walking on Sunshine -- Katrina and the Waves

Day 7 - 268 -- Massaging Time

Today was sunny with warmer air than the past several days. Two online meetings occurred. One of these was a prep for a guest lecture next week -- another new platform for me to work with to appear by distance. It looks straight forward, but most of the bells and whistles will need to wait for the guest lecture I give in second term. 

I went for a short walk in the afternoon. It was wonderful. Both the brook and river are much higher but flow rates are not overly fast. I unpacked the storm emergency bags and tried to get things back to usual -- though I still struggle with what that actually looks like these days <smile>. I think the day map I'd implemented during the first 3 months needs to return. I'm not sure when it all fell apart, but sometime into the second three months. That will be my project for the next couple of weeks. I also need to get back to the retired work schedule -- 2 to 3 partial days weekly only. It seems even those of us not in paid work positions are working more hours than intended -- something I've seen in my many acquaintances working from home during the pandemic. There is no clear division of office and home. I, too, have not been on campus at the office as regularly as I had been before March. So, there needs to be some concerted effort at cramming things back into some semblance of a timed schedule.

Again, this brings me to ponder the nature of time. Time passes quickly while it feels like it is slowly plodding along. Work, on the other hand, expands to fit the time -- overfills actually, such that the feeling of 'no time' arrives -- leading us to work on those tasks for far more hours than is healthy -- and likely not as productively as we could be with some break time.. 

Today I share a song that I used as a grad student for tag lines and answering machine messages. The frenetic tempo says it all <smile>. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

No Time - The Monkees

Day 7 - 267 -- The Flavour of Autumn

 Autumn arrived yesterday. With it comes the carnival food of the autumn -- pumpkin spice whatever. This was proven to me with the release (in Canada) by Kraft of pumpkin spice mac and cheese cups. <shudder>. An abomination. 

I like the spice mixture, but find the overuse at this time of year similar to companies participating in early adolescent school yard competitions to see who can out-spice the other. The marketing gimmick used in lattes and baked goods seems overblown when the spice mixture with or without pumpkin colouring (as it has little flavour on its own) is found in food service operations all year long -- in muffins, chai spice mixtures, and desserts. It also seems that this odd autumn advertising scramble provides permission for some people to over-consume spiced items since they are available only for a short time. This is a key marketing ploy to get to people to feel they will miss out if they don't rush out to get the product right now. Even though we feel immune to such suggestions as adults, we really aren't. <smile> 

While the world is raining pumpkin spice products, I thought of a song that made me giggle. Hope you can, too. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Pumpkin Spice Latte -- The Holderness Family

Day 7 -- 266 -- Sheltering in Place

Teddy -- not the cuddly bears many of us know, but more like that obnoxious bear from the move Ted! This storm adds fear and disrupts an already bizarre time. I've packed the key needs for the furry one and me should we need to vacate. I've tucked the compost bin into a more sheltered area. I've moved plant pots from the porch into the basement. I've located the battery operated lights and radio and charged all electronic devices. Foods that can be easily prepared without power have been placed in a central location. I guess that is about all I can do. Now it is time to do usual things -- in an unusually dark house due to heavy cloud cover -- listen to the rain on the roof, watch a recorded movie, make dinner and write the blog <smile>. I have a new book to read should the television be stricken from that list. Preparation does help with some calming -- a way of feeling a bit more in control, I guess. 

The world keeps moving forward. During the pandemic, seasons have changed twice along with local drought (and resultant fire risk) and the many other issues to contend with. While packing my go bag, I realized that I needed sanitizer and masks -- new items to add to that standing list. The world continues and we adapt. In the midst of the storm chaos, I should find some comfort in this perspective. 

This song has been in my head a lot lately. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Shelter from the Storm -- Bob Dylan

Day 7 - 265 -- Making Peace Together

 I had a phone appointment with my MD for the first time since this new way of doing things. It was mainly for prescription renewal and a couple questions. The office does do in person visits if it is something that needs to be 'seen' before treatment. Those are being kept to a minimum to keep all as safe as possible. 

Today was the International Day of Peace. The theme is "shaping peace together", which had me thining of the many messages that have circulated since March 11 this year -- spread kindness, act with compassion and find the hope. These are particular to the pandemic, but work in doing our singular contributions to making peace globally. It reminds me of a frieze located on campus called Making Peace  (by Fenn Martin). At the centre of the village scene are people gathering, preparing and sharing food together. What a great metaphor for peace making! 

A wonderful song from a few decades back still fits so well with the theme of making peace. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Peace Train -- Yusef (Cat Stevens)

Day 7 - 264 -- Preparing for the Storm

It was a day filled with household chores and completing the laundry. While we are in the midst of a tropical cyclone watch and warning, there is also a frost warning for the second night in a row. That is an odd combination. The day began with sun -- a bit of hope -- but by afternoon clouds blew in with some light rain. My main task involved getting things together for the 'go bags' for the impending storm. I also needed to dig out a number of items that only come out of storage for a storm with potential for power outages. I checked all of these devices and charged the electronics, though some of these in heavy use like the laptop, may need to be charged again tomorrow. Video conferencing seems to use a huge energy hog -- but, in my books, worth every bit. <smile> 

It seemed that today didn't allow much brain space for pondering, since preparations seemed to take all the focus I can muster. Finding a small enough bag that is big enough for the essentials is a challenge. It did make me think of the carpet bag that Mary Poppins used -- she could pull out anything she needed from what appeared to be an empty bag. That would make preparations go more smoothly. I could just make a mental list and things would find their way into the interdimensional portal in that bag. <grin> 

During the packing I kept an eye on the hurricane tracking reports from the Hurricane Centre hoping this thing would wobble east and stay out to sea. It seemed to show that it was to be east of us for the early forecast and by the evening version, it was destined to come right over this area. <sigh> Tomorrow will tell us more and until it happens the probabilities we've listened to may turn into something quite different. The good thing is that we know something is heading this way. The song that seemed to fit came from my constant checking of the forecast. The sentiment in the lyrics is similar though the destination is entirely different. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

The Final Countdown -- Europe

Day 7 -- 263 -- New Theatre Experience

The sky today was sunny with many clouds entering the sky form the northeast with a gusty, cooling wind. Less haze was present than the past few days.  In a brief outing to run some errands, I failed to find a battery operated LED lantern or light to add to the storm kit at the house. I may have to resort to online shopping for that one, though it won't be here in time for Teddy. The lanes at the gas station were blocked by orange pylons -- no obvious reason. So, I'll need to head back there tomorrow. 

In the evening, I attended a play broadcast via Zoom. It was a one-man play with a female singer providing the soundtrack. The audience saw the stage, but from the stage the actor could see the audience in gallery format on three giant screens that stretched across the width of the theatre. Audience participation occurred through songs, call and response chants, and individuals called on to be part of the play. A question and answer session at the end provided great discussion on the process and play. It was cool to be part of a group viewing a play. I miss that.  

A line from a movie musical came to mind today. I hope it makes you smile. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Choreography - Danny Kay (from White Christmas) 

Day 7 - 262 -- The Waiting Game

The day was  cloudy and hazy. I participated in a research meeting and had lovely chats with friends by phone and Skype. One person I hand't spoken with since April. Still, it felt like a 'lost' day. I'm not sure  what I expected to get done off the lengthy list, but what I did doesn't feel like 'enough' today. 

Forecasts look like we could be in the path of Teddy as it roars northward. The path will become a bit clearer over the weekend. Once we know the potential track,  I will get the emerg kit and go bags together. This is frightening after Dorian last September, though this one may land as a hurricane instead of a tropical storm or depression taking a track (and time of year) eerily like Juan in 2003. That was a wicked, scary night. 

Waiting for the Hurricane -- Chris de Burgh

Day 7 - 261 -- Taking Stock

 Six months ago -- 185 days to be precise -- the world and daily life changed dramatically. While it feels like nothing has moved forward, a lot has changed and new habits have evolved for many people. So, what have we encountered? Let's take stock of some of it all. 

Curbside pickup for groceries, takeout meals and many other retail outlets came from efforts to reduce contact, while also maintaining a scaled back business operation. Curbside -- a new word for the colloquial lexicon. 

Many of us now own a collection of masks with many some making fashion statements or advertising our favourite sports teams, TV characters or activities. They go with me every day, everywhere, even when I don't expect to enter a public building. They are there "just in case." I've tried many styles -- pleated or not, tie and elastic -- and tried my hand at making a couple of these. One made of denim, will be used soon as the temperatures drop a bit. 

Social distancing seems more common, such that when someone steps closer than 2 meters, a sense of frustration or panic ensues. It can be difficult in social social situations to keep that distance when we are so used to being closer. <sigh> 

For me, walking occurs almost daily.This not only helps with stress feelings, but is a reason to leave the house and see the wider world around me. Watching the seasons change during the daily walks has helped me see that some things continue as expected. 

Mastering video platforms has become a requirement for distanced  communications. I've lost count but it might be up to seven  or eight different ones over the past 6 months when I'd used only one with any regularity up to that point. More new-to-me ones are in the offing, too.  Such software programs have been helpful for virtual conference presentations, meetings with people across the country or across town, a way to enjoy live music and drama when we can't travel or sit in a large auditorium or theatre, and to keep in touch with friends and family. I'll admit it is still far from being face-to-face, but seeing faces while hearing voices helps a bit. it beats listening to a disembodied voice. <smile> In some cases, virtual meetings may be overused and result in meeting fatigue. With a bit more time, I expect this will get sorted out. 

On the down side, canceling many travel plans for business and personal reasons has been difficult for many of us. Not seeing family and good friends has been painful, but we will get there. We just have to get to the point of managing this new risk. New travel insurance now exists for COVID-19 only, since the disease was categorized as a known risk with regular travel health insurance. So the industries are worling to close the gaps for travelers.   

When looking through all of this, it shows me we are adaptable. Yet, limits exist as to how much we are  willing to accept -- there can be little tolerance some days for any further changes. With stress management techniques, this too can work a bit better.  But -- I desperately want to get back to some activities that have been put on hold and have been altered so they won't be experienced in the same way nor perhaps take for granted. Travel to visit those I care for and to do further research on the current major project are at the top of my list. These six months have clearly shown me what my priorities will be <smile>.  

A song lyric ran through my head that fit with what I miss the most -- traveling to see all those people that I love dearly. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

On the Road Again -- Willie Nelson

Day 7 - 260 -- Weather Changes

 The temperature dropped considerably overnight with some frost warnings in the wider region. The day felt cooler than it was due to the gusty westerly winds. When I went to the evening farmers mini-market, the vendors -- all outdoors today -- were wearing puffer vests and fleece. Now the air temperature was in the high teens (high 60s F) but the wind made it all feel so much cooler. Despite that I had a great chat with the vendor I got produce from today -- little patty pan squash, big slicing tomatoes and (a favourite) small orange cherry tomatoes. 

Into the early evening, I went out for a walk. As I walked back home heading west, I looked up in the sky and saw the sun -- now a vivid orange. The smoke from the West coast US has reached the Atlantic coast of Canada today. High level smoke made it feel like there were clouds, but it was haze. This will be with us for a while now I expect, likely getting closer to the air we breathe. 

A song came to mind today. It may come to this in the next days. It is from a time long, long ago. <smile> Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Smoke gets in your eyes -- The Platters

Day 7 - 259 -- A Special Day

 When I woke on my birthday this week, I was prepared for a low key day with take out from a favourite restaurant -- something very different than the usual dinner with 6-8 people to celebrate. the day unfolded differently than expected. A friend and I went for an afternoon walk with take out tea we enjoyed in the park -- complete with homemade banana pineapple muffins. The air was cool with clouds racing across the sky, but was so much nicer than the dismal grey day yesterday. Another dear friend asked me to dinner -- great food and conversation. Then there were the many, many messages on social media wishing me a good day. 

The mail brought a gift from a distant friend -- a mask with Saskatchewan Riders logo! Perfect. There were also two direct mail pieces in the mail box today -- one for hearing aids and one for a retirement living community -- both arriving on my birthday made me laugh. Other gifts showed the kitchen talents of friends with preserves -- green tomato chow, orange-lemon zucchini marmalade and crabapple jelly. The latter reminds me of my mother's --d eep red colour and tangy apply flavour. 

So the day held many smiles. I noticed myself smiling throughout the day. That made me think that I haven't' been doing that as much recently. Hmm.  Friends are amazing. I am a lucky person to have many near and across the globe. 

I thought of a song when I woke this morning -- one that has always made me smile. I recall a video that showed this song being sung at the group's final outdoor concert -- though it was carefully edited to look like it had been sung at that concert when it actually wasn't. I couldn't find that video, but the song still makes me smile. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Birthday -- The Beatles

Day 7 - 258 -- Working to Forgiveness

I woke with the pain of a migraine this morning. I did very little until mid-afternoon when I headed to the grocery store for a handful of things. When I arrived home, I decided to take a short walk. I had a need to move. All day was like twilight and had been raining overnight and into the morning. I was glad I had my sunglasses with me, since the bit of glare out there was more than I could manage today. Don't usually get this sensitive with a headache, but today was just that day -- Monday after all. 

During the walking today, unlike a previous day, I encountered no one who moved to distance. When two people are walking side by side towards an oncoming pedestrian, one should step behind the other to make room even when not distancing. Regardless of age, no one moved today -- well, no one other than me <smile>. I felt very cranky about my fellow walkers today and then felt guilty for being out of sorts. Today was my day to move as best I could to distance. It took some struggle, but I began to forgive myself and others for the walking situation. 

Forgiveness isn't always easy. It is a given that at some point people will do something that feels like an affront -- whether friends, family, co-workers, bosses. Working through the feelings and forgiving all concerned can take time, but is important to heal the heart. Today it was a small issue in the grand scheme of life. I expect my tolerance for such actions was reduced due to the migraine. For me walking helps me work through emotions. 

The song chosen for today brings together much of today in the lyrics -- walking, muttering to myself, a rainy, cloudy day and the day of the week. <smile>  Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Rainy Days and Mondays -- The Carpenters

Day 7 - 257 -- Local Food

 Today was low key. Household chores and laundry were completed. I spent time getting caught up on online communications. I cooked yesterday, so had leftovers today -- baked chicken with stir-fired rainbow chard with Asian seasoning and corn on the cob. I added an appetizer size caprese salad and finished with blueberry crisp. All fruits and vegetables were locally grown and obtained from the farmers market. 

I love this time of year. The fresh produce tastes so much better than what we have access to during the winter. Shopping and cooking become a delight -- so many wonderful flavours and colours to combine on a plate. Being part of the local micro-economy with smaller growers feels fantastic. I appreciate knowing the people who grew what I'm taking home to eat. The fall squash and root crops will soon arrive for sale, yet this heralds the end of the growing season. We aren't there quite yet, but it is in the offing as autumn arrives. 

The song today is a tribute to farmers. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Here's to the Farmer -- Luke Bryan

Day 7 - 256 -- Shopping Discovery

Well, it has come to this. While at the drugstore, I found toilet paper on sale and was excited. The sale was about half-price. Regular pricing is insane and this brand is made in the province! I then realized that I felt like I'd scored a winning goal by finding this bargain -- toilet paper. <what?>  As a bonus, shampoo was on deep discount today, too. I haven't really 'gone shopping' for anything other than groceries and drug store items for months. This feeling made me stop and think. I don't spend a lot of time purchasing, but I do like wandering through favourite stores just to see what is there. When I need something, shopping generally becomes a chore. So, when excitement arrived with an unexpected sale on something I needed, it was like buying boots, jeans, sheets or towels on sale -- exhilarating. What an odd outcome of isolation <shaking head>. 

The day was lovely and sunny -- warm but not too hot and with dry air instead of the humidity of the past few days. I was home most of the day doing the usual weekend chores. I went for a walk in the early evening and each person I encountered on the sidewalks -- mostly younger people -- distanced by moving to the edge of the sidewalk or into the parking lane to be 2 m apart. That was very thoughtful and very cool. I thanked them for moving all with a big smile. The evening was very cool so the house will cool off overnight. When I entered after the walk, it felt like I had the heat on inside. 

The chorus and title line from a song came to mind today while pondering the impact of finding necessities on sale. I share it with you all tonight -- albeit tongue in cheek. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Material Girl -- Madonna

 

Day 7 - 255 -- Power of Kindness

NOTE: The topic today deals with 9/11 and may be triggering.

19 years. Somehow that sounds impossible -- memories of that day are still deep and raw. I heard of the first plane after my early morning class. I heard of the second as I was headed to the second class. Shortly after that, the campus closed. I recall heading home and stopping at Tim's for soup and added a cookie and slice of coffee cake to the take out order. At home, I sat in front of the television not believing what I was seeing -- and eating cake -- "lots and lots of cake".  

As the days wore on, we began to see the stories of the helpers and were reminded of the words of Fred Rogers, who told of his mother saying that in times of crisis to look for the helpers who would always be there. I recall stories of bakers in Canada working to get pies across the border for first responders and families. Most of all, I remember the many stories about harbours and airports across Canada who took in the many travelers unable to get to the US when air and sea routes were closed. Of those multiple places stretching across the continent, the story of the small town or Gander, Newfoundland epitomized the caring nature of communities who banded together to make thousands of people as comfortable as possible until travel resumed. In this small town, friendships developed that still exist today.

In the book "The Day the World Came to Town" by Jim DeFede, the sharing of cultures and ways of life worked both ways -- to and from the small town folks on an island.That day ensured that it was no longer untouched by global events nor isolated from the world. From the experiences during the time air space was closed, a musical, "Come from Away", was written by playwrights David Hein and Irene Sankoff. It debuted on Broadway and now tours the world. The story portrayed the power of kindness during a time with so many unknowns. I never fail to find it uplifting. I have yet to see the play on stage, but have seen the 'making of' film and heard the soundtrack. 

Today I share two songs from the musical. The first deals with the immediate response by the Gander airport. The second helps us see things from the viewpoint of the people who arrived somewhere they'd never heard of before. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

38 Planes -- Come From Away (Broadway cast)

28 hours/Wherever We Are -- Come From Away (Broadway cast)

Day 7 - 254 -- Facing the Future

 I spoke with two people during the day -- one a video call with a good friend and one a meeting with a colleague. It felt good to talk with people today and get caught up. We began discussing the feeling that there wasn't a lot new going on --  just more of the same. Yet, as we spoke, a few new happenings surfaced. For the ongoing similarity of the days that quietly blend together, we noted that time continues to move -- even more quickly than it feels. Finding the impetus to do tasks and projects on one's own has been challenging for others and not just each individual. I'm still not sure that helps me to move forward, but it does have a degree of comfort in knowing that it isn't just me. 

A song line came to mind as I pondered the indeterminate nature of things. The lyrics and soothing melody can help me to re-centre somewhat. Being kind to oneself and doing some things (not all things) may keep life moving into the future. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Let It Be -- The Beatles

Day 7 - 253 -- All Alone

 The highlight today was a trip to the farmers market for local produce -- rainbow chard, arugula, cherry  tomatoes, corn, snap peas and wild blueberries. I ate some corn at supper with a Caprese salad made with purplish heirloom tomatoes from the market last week. The fresh blueberries were mixed with lemon yogurt for a yummy dessert. The research meetings resumed this week after a break during most of August. The evening brought an online jazz quartet featuring original music inspired by sculptures gy a single artist. It was stellar. 

I know people finishing quarantine tomorrow and another only half way through the 14 day period. Being isolated in summer where they have to remain indoors and not even talk to people on the porch who are delivering necessities must be difficult. I know how challenging it is for me to be fairly isolated -- but that is of my own choosing. If the authorities told me to isolate, I'm sure it would become more difficult -- or it might make me cranky. Imagine that! Me cranky! <grin> 

The selection today contains lyrics that ran through my head today. The chorus sounds plaintive, so reminded me of the isolation we are living. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

All By Myself  -- Eric Carmen 

Day 7 - 252 -- Running Away

 My outing for the day was a visit to the physio. While it is great to visit with him, pain shouldn't be a reason for such conversations. <sigh> I had a good phone chat with a friend today, too. Along with the sunshine, these two visits brought smiles. 

I've found myself feeling the desire to run away somewhere and hide from the world. Now, I don't want to run away alone, but I do want to hide from it all. There is no specific place in my mind, just somewhere isolated -- rural areas are a must. I know I live in a rural region -- a small town -- but the urge is to be where the closest neighbour is within kilometers rather than meters. I understand this reaction probably comes from the stress of living with this virus. Being more rural would reduce the stress of people failing to distance, mask or isolate (when required). The feeling of being alone could be minimized by a runaway partner. <smile> Oh, and the hiding place needs wifi <grin>. 

Lines from several songs came to mind today, but only one hit the sweet spot. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Runaway -- Avril Lavigne 

Day 7 - 251 -- Cleaning or Cleansing

 Cleaning seemed to be the word of the day. After folding the final bits of laundry, I moved into sweeping and washing the floors. Given the cooler temperatures today, it made sense to do the heavy work. The filing cabinet has been calling my name for some time. Today was the day. I cleared out two drawers and part of a third. This filled three-and one/half blue bags for recycling pickup tomorrow. There is still a lot of sorting to do with the final two drawers, but that will be for the next pick up in two weeks. Once the drawers are cleared, there will be room to put household and personal files into the cabinet instead of file boxes in a closet <smile>. 

Much of the paper in the filing cabinet was of a professional nature, most of it older or outdated. That made sorting less onerous. The topics brought back many memories of projects and people I worked with in the past. It felt positive but a bit wistful. There also is a feeling of release -- letting things go. I felt like I could finish the last two drawers in one big purge, but I listened to my lower back and put that task off for another day <smile>.  

Looking back on the purge of the day, I decided I felt a sense of freedom. The song line that played in my head is the introduction and chorus line from the song of the day. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

I Feel Free -- Cream

Day 7 - 250 -- New Litter

 NOTE: this post is based on personal observation and not on scientific evidence, but points to areas of concern with current public health guidelines. 

It has been good to see everyone wearing masks in public buildings since this practice was mandated by the province. Sadly, masks are creating the same difficulties gloves did earlier in the pandemic. I walk by masks dropped on the ground every day -- the sidewalk on Main Street, parking lots, and on the sidewalk from the hospital. Now, I suspect that some have been dropped inadvertently since many are reusable masks. However, the sheer number of masks I encounter on my walks suggests that many have been dropped on purpose. who cleans up after this thoughtlessness? Public Service workers a busy with their usual work and now have to add retrieval of personal waste of their community members to their duties. It isn't difficult to dispose of masks properly. Keep a paper bag in the car or in your purse or briefcase. Remove the mask and place it in the bag. This keeps everything else from being in contact with this waste. This bag can be safely disposed of in a garbage can near the building or parking lot, or it can be taken to a bin at home. If reusable, they can be washed once home, too. 

One other concern lately is the large number of people not using sanitizers when entering a public building or retail outlet. This keeps one from spreading anything on your hands to others. Repeating this process when leaving a building helps one from infecting oneself from others who have not sanitized upon entry or after coughing or sneezing while inside. 

Fewer people seem to be distancing in stores I've visited recently, also. Masks protect us from spread, but distancing helps here, too.  In our town, while most people are quarantining as required for 14 days after travel outside the region or being in contact with someone who has tested positive, there are a few who are not doing this. This process ensures that a person does not infect others while they have not yet developed symptoms. It isn't easy to stay home, but it keeps the whole region safe. One person can spread this to many, many others -- termed super-spreaders. 

LSS --  Mask. Distance, Dispose safely. Isolate when required. Simply put, follow the public health guidelines. This will help us all stay healthy. The song for today is a parody that notes how garbage can pile up and create health risks. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Trash Day -- Weird Al Yankovic

Day 7 - 249 -- Re-finding Purpose

I feel that very little is being accomplished on most days. Perhaps this is a  loss of some sense of purpose. I suspect some of this has been in place since retirement (2 years ago last week) with the pandemic restrictions serving to deepen that sense of loss. For the past two years there has been much research writing happening. Some submissions have been rejected and are in a revision process -- a process that is difficult to engage with. Others are lost in a great editorial machine that likely is less functional since March, so responses have been slower than usual. There is much else to do, but that brings the conundrum of just where does one begin when so many things clamor to be addressed. The lyric "the weight of indecision in the air" fits perfectly for that 'to do' list.  

Goals are still important, even when the certainty of when or where may be unclear at present due to outside forces. One must hold onto hopes and dreams and move forward as best as possible. Living in the moment is key, but future direction is needed for any forward movement to occur. As I often counseled students writing theses -- break it into smaller chunks and deal with them one at a time. This will provide some forward movement which could become the focus, rather than focusing on the finish line.  

The song shared today uses the metaphor of a wall for the blockage I've been feeling. The lyrics note that we do have the power to move past it -- with a bit of work. <smile> Stay safe. Enjoy! 

The Wall -- Kansas

 

Day 7 - 248 -- Expanding Bubbles

 Today involved going to dinner at a friend's, where we ate and visited on the deck. The day had been very hot -- 30C that felt closer to 37C (~87/100F) but a cooling breeze arrived in the evening. There has been little socializing over the past months, so that moving towards being more social within public health guidelines and 'bubbles' feels a bit unusual. Maintaining social distance even in very small groups can be difficult, yet lack of social interactions creates an entirely different type of health impact -- yet another of the effects of isolation. Worry about encountering or even transmitting this blasted virus can create a host of mental health issues. After learning to live in an isolated bubble, expanding the number of people we see regularly becomes very challenging. Anxiety thrives when we encounter these types of changes to daily living. Interestingly, reducing social interactions can reduce  long term health. The potential misunderstanding here seems to be that household bubbles expanded to two mutually exclusive households with a maximum size. Now the term has been applied to the four Atlantic provinces, which does not mean we can drop our guard with anyone from the region. Masking and distancing are still necessary. So, it can be confusing when we are trying to maintain mental health and physical health -- things that may be difficult to balance fully. 

The title line of a song kept running through my head. Worry will be part of the whole 'opening up' process, but following guidelines will help keep risk lower. Working towards this will take time and effort.  Stay safe. Enjoy! 

 Don't you worry 'bout a thing -- Stevie Wonder

Day 7 - 247 -- Clearing my Head

This afternoon we headed to the vet to investigate a bump on the furry one's head -- attached to skin not skull. I  found it a few days ago so have been fretting a bit since then. He has been fine and not bothered by it at all. The vet felt it was likely a sebaceous cyst and that I need to watch for changes in size, if he becomes irritated with it or it begins to ooze. It is right in the middle of his little forehead -- in the centre of the tabby 'M' marking there.  So -- nothing to worry about at present. The furry one has been catching up on lost sleep since the appointment was in the midst of his afternoon sleep -- that and it is always stressful for them when they have to go for a vet visit. At least I could go inside with him for the office visit this time -- masked of course. 

I took a long walk in the evening when the air became cooler and less humid -- still sticky but the breeze made things feel cooler. A good chat with a friend helped me relax, too. Speaking to another human being can help me to get out of my own head. Walking helps me to work through things -- so get inside my head to organize thoughts. Music is always part of the walk, which helps with focus and sometimes perspective.  I've written about walking and talking here before, but these do continue to help me remains somewhat grounded in these crazy times. 

A song that started this blog ran through my mind again today. The concepts included in the lyrics cover my musings of the day. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

River of Dreams -- Billy Joel

Day 7 - 246 -- Consumer Issues

I made a farmers market order pick up in a building where a nearly invisible line stretched across the width of the barn that nearly tripped me as I was watching out for the folks on ladders and carrying wooden frames towards some of the booths. It seems this will be part of a movie set tomorrow. I suggested that a sign be attached to the clear plastic cord. <sigh> Earlier this week, several blocks of Main Street were closed for two days -- also for filming. Local parks have been part of the filming, also. The story is set in town and written by an actress and playwright from Halifax. We do get background shots done in town often, but not generally much of a movie. Our Main Street could fit either the quaint wooden front or old-timey stone front building small town vibe.  

During the rest of the day, I completed online reporting of the attempted phishing fraud to the national reporting site. This was followed by an online consumer complaint. License plate renewal tags were processed online at a site that made it difficult to find the hot-linked words that led to the online forms. These were buried within a text-dense page that required scrolling. The one sidebar menu did not lead to the application page but moved a visitor through the lengthy page of definitions. Constructive comments were left, rather than the self-talk I uttered while trying to find my way to the requisite page. <smile> I had a phone visit with a friend -- nice to keep in touch. 

I feel much of the past several days has involved consumer complaints whether for physical environments, product issues, delivery problems, or unwanted robo-calls. I've questioned whether this comes from inside me -- just being overly cranky -- or if this is an unusual spate of weirdness. Getting used to new ways of doing things could be part of the issue. So could the fact that I seem to be out and about more often these days. The stress that lies in wait for any little thing can move things quickly into a very negative space. Finding a way to vent can help to move back to a more positive mood. Finding the best way to do this changes with situations, but some common threads must exist. Time for reflective work, I guess. 

A song that seemed to fit some of these musings is shared tonight. The lyrics are easy to say, but it may be more difficult to fully adopt this attitude. We should acknowledge the negative feelings and find a way to move on from them. It doesn't mean we have to be on top of the world every minute of every day. <smile> Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Complain -- David Archuleta

Day 7 - 245 -- Happy Shade of Blue

 

What a glorious day -- blue sky, a few fluffy white clouds and warm sunshine. The breeze was a bit cool but pleasant. I enjoyed a walk to the library to return three books -- and still have two to return tomorrow. It would have been too heavy to carry them all at the same time. 

While out, I walked a block to the Service Canada office -- the excitement of my day. I received what appeared to be a phishing around lunch time. The recorded voice noted that my social insurance number had been suspended due to fraudulent activity. Since I had just spoken to the real office by phone yesterday, this seemed highly unlikely. The recorded voice asking that I press '1' to continue was a strong clue, too. I chatted with the woman behind the desk today, who confirmed my suppositions. Next step is to register this attempt at fraud on the Canada Fraud Centre website. I wondered if this was something new after the breach in some of the individual information files a couple of weeks ago. It appears this particular phishing attempt has occurred in other areas in the country for several months now. So, not new, but new to me. 

The way weather affects mood intrigues me. Today I felt up beat despite the silly phishing scheme. It made me venture out for an early evening walk, just so I could see the blue sky. With the full moon almost here, it will be great to see it for a change. <smile> A song about the sky ran through my mind with the voice of the singer featured here tonight. Stay safe. Enjoy! 

Blue Skies -- Willie Nelson