Sunday, March 22, 2020

What a week............



Well my friends what more is there to say?  This has been quite a week.  While I work or try to sleep I fear we don't have enough food or paper products.  The stores are empty and this is our new normal.  I actually found a frozen organic turkey at the health food store and grabbed it for the meat we can get off of it to make sandwiches.  We can eat some now and freeze some.  It is the most EXPENSIVE turkey in the history of turkey's but what choice do we have?  I woke at 4 AM on Friday morning just in a state.  So I got up at 5 and rearranged my entire office.  My oldest is working from home and needed my work table.  That was fine because I am not working at it anyway.  I moved my desk and shelves to the opposite wall and made a little area where people can sit while their loved ones are being worked on.  Not that any private patients will be here for a while, but still I am ready when they are.  By 7 I also had the garage cleaned, and by 8 my toy closet in my office with all sorts of toys and games ready to be donated.  By 9, I had Little Buddy's room organized, moved a bit and toys ready for the ever growing donation pile.  I made trips to recycle boxes, to the Goodwill drop off, got gas and ran to the store just to get more milk and a few greens.  Not much was there, certainly no flour, butter, milk, meat.  It is just crazy.  In the midst of feeling like this is the end of the world I remind myself that it isn't and to take a deep breath, but still it is so hard for everyone.  I know I am the norm right now, this isn't about me it is about all of us.


After helping Mr 26 to rearrange his work station upstairs I came down to see that Little Buddy had made his own office, complete with calculator and three phones.  He must be very busy!  He keeps switching what floor he is working on and had a pretend fire drill.  If this boy can push buttons he is one happy camper.



Hank and Bear had a grooming appointment today, I thought I was going to get it in before they closed down but no such luck.  They are officially closed for a few weeks.  The store is open for pet food and such but I still made my husband make an emergency run for more food.  We are good to go for a while, but two dogs eat a lot!  I gave the boys face hair cuts today, and trimmed a bit around their paws.  They are going to be an awful mess by the time this is over but really that is the least of my worries.


We started working on some assignments for school today.  School was officially going to start on Tuesday after spring break, but for now they are staying closed until April 15, and I can't believe they will open then.  I think we are out until next Fall.  Still we got some things done, I had Little Buddy do extra math problems and we always read so that is not new.  Yesterday was writing sentences on the computer, that takes him a long time, not the typing but processing the information and getting his ideas out of his mind and onto the page.  He wrote about elevators, which I thought was an easy subject as it is his favorite thing, but still it was a chore for him.  We will keep at it and all the other work he needs to do.


And just so you know Mr 26 no longer has a girlfriend, Little Buddy does!  His first crush and it is adorable.  Thankfully Mr 26's girlfriend is as kind and loving as can be.  She always makes time for this little one and makes him feel extra special.


While cleaning out my toy/work closet I came upon this wee little tent.  So right this second Little Buddy is in there with his iPad, a blanket and a pillow.  It gives me a break and he is very excited to have his own special place.  

I am doing an online course so better get back to it.  Just wanted to update you all on our week.  We are fine so far, trying to stay at home as much as possible.  Trying to sanitize and stay away from people when we need to go to the store.  I am working a half day tomorrow as Little One has an appointment we have to go to.  I will keep him close and as germ free as possible.  

Hope you are all well.  Check in in blogland if you can so everyone knows you are doing alright in these crazy times.  Even though most of us have never met we all care about each other.  Stay safe my friends.

37 comments:

Joy@aVintageGreen said...

You too dear Meredith. Thank you for posting today.
Hugs.
Joy

Anonymous said...

Hello! Thank you for continuing to post! It is a joy to read about you, Little Buddy, Mr. 26 and Mr. 22 and the fur boys. It sure is a strange time! We are also low on some supplies and bought some amazingly expensive chicken this week. We are just beginning to do some digging in the garden (We're in Mass., can't do much yet). Thank goodness for knitting, crocheting and drawing! -Polly

MargaretP said...

Good to hear you are all fine, fingers crossed it stays that way.
When you are out shopping, please wear a scarf and use the ends to grip trolley, fridge handles etc...it's so easy to touch your face after being in contact with these surfaces which are touched thousands of times a day.
There are lots of live cam feeds from Zoos and national parks with a great range of animals to watch if Buddy needs some variety at home.
I have a stock of dried beans and lentils etc and frozen veg I can't grow and have planted out seedlings of quick growing greens, spinach, silver beet, chard and bok choy .
I think we will all have to get creative to feed everyone .
Stay safe and well.

Gracie Saylor said...

Thanks for posting, Mere. It is good to know you are safe and coping with our new normal. I am so grateful we have had a sunny week. I have walked the condo loop a few times and enjoyed fresh air and Spring flowers. Otherwise, I have been in the condo except for going to the grocery store last Friday and this Friday. I got a whole chicken and made soup stock and ten packets of meat for meals. I usually only buy a large package of TP every two months and noted that I have 6 rolls left so enough for another month, I think...but I am amazed that is the major item not in the stores. Since my schedule has been cleared I figured I would have more time for crafting, but not so far. I have spent a lot of time texting/calling/emailing folks in small groups I was facilitating and communicating more with family and friends...canceling travel plans to celebrate my uncle's 100th birthday with him because he is not allowed visitors. Some ladies and I used an app to get together online to work on knitting and crocheting baby blankets, and that was a real highlight of the week. I am praying that the Lord in His mercy will sort us out, providing, protection and healing and strength to love one another well. ((hugs))

Teresa Kasner said...

Hello my friend. I'm glad you posted and are reaching out to us, you blog pals. Our grandsons went back home yesterday so we're back to being just the two of us. Dayle is outside getting some chores done as our sunny weather will stop tomorrow and rain is scheduled all next week. ::wah:: I wish you could stay home too, my friend. I hope your sons are able to shelter in place and stay safe. Sending our love and support your way. ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

TheAwakenedSoul said...

OH...I'm sorry you couldn't find what you needed at the store. That must have been upsetting. I hope they will be restocked soon. Buddy is so cute! I tried shopping up at the cabin yesterday. I expected them to be empty, but they had everything I needed. They are only allowing people to buy one bag of sugar, flour, and other staples. I hope you are able to fill your freezer with meat and what you need.

Grandmabeckyl.blogspot said...

Good to read your post! It has been an interesting few weeks with all the stay at home, close down restaurant seating..take outs and delivery here in OR. I enjoyed seeing LB...like that tent! Apparently with school closure til end of April, my grandkids don't go outdoors much as there are children in apt complex all over the place. They are homeschoolers. Hopefully they will go out elsewhere in a park they like to go to and have fun in the sunshine and fresh air we've been having lately. Take care and be well and happy my blogger friend! God bless!
Becky L.

Mrs. Micawber said...

Good to know you and your dear family are hanging in there and doing well. And yes, what a week! Hugs to you, Mere.

Betsy said...

Hi Mere, I enjoyed reading about your week even if it's not a normal one. The photos of Little Buddy cheer all of us up and goodness knows we all need that. I have to run an errand tomorrow morning and I've been stressing about leaving the house all weekend. I'm afraid we're all going to be agoraphobic before all of this is over. I've always been a homebody and this is making it even worse. I know I'm not "safe" here since Dennis is still going to work everyday and being exposed to the dreaded virus. But...I'm still not planning to leave the house except for walks again for a long time. I discovered grocery deliver today and investigated it as a possiblity in the future. It's a good thing we're not desperate because the soonest we could either pick up groceries or get them delivered is April 2!
I'll be praying for you my dear friend. I'm glad you have all of your chicks in the nest. You are a lucky lady.
Blessings,
Betsy

happy hooker said...

Strange times indeed! Here in the UK, the shops are s-l-o-w-l-y getting some of the shelves re-stocked. Most people seem to now just be buying what they need and the stores are limiting essentials to just 2 or 3 per customer. There was a video on the news of a health worker in tears, begging people not to panic buy, as she was unable to buy anything to feed herself and family. Heartbreaking. I can't wait until it's all over and we can all meet up with our loved ones and hug and kiss them. Keep strong and safe everyone, we will get through this, eventually! xx

Araignee said...

It's 4 am and I am awake reading blogs because I had a nightmare that I ran out of cat food and now I can't get back to sleep. Every hour it's a new worry. I am exhausted. I was just saying to The Mister that I wondered how the dog groomers were doing and now I know. Pup just got a chop job too. The times we live in.....wow.

Anonymous said...

Have followed your blog for such a long time from here in the UK.
We have the same food supply problems here so we feel your
pain on that score. Crazy, scarey times.
Wishing you and yours good health and happiness

Jo said...

You have the same manic mind as me. I could think of a million different jobs to do but I have home schooling today so we are going to do that this morning and then the girls can have some of their own time this afternoon. I am lucky they are keen little crafters!

CJ said...

I love Little Buddy's work station, wonderful. It sounds as if your stores are very empty. We still have quite a bit of stuff here, but I don't know how long that will last. Everyone has taking to going out for country walks - the countryside is full of people! The barbers has closed, so I may resort to cutting hair if it goes on much longer, as two of the boys already need a trim. I hadn't even thought about the dog. Stay safe my friend, and check in when you can, it's always a pleasure to hear from you. CJ xx

Jo said...

We're all in this together, we're experiencing the same frustrations and problems over here as you are there. Our Prime Minister gives a press briefing each day and we wait to see what further measures will be announced, scary times indeed and yet we still see people wandering around in groups and meeting up with people. I really don't know what it will take to get through to some people.

Anonymous said...

Dear Meredith, We are all experiencing worrying thoughts at many times throughout the day and night. I'm not sleeping well, but thankfully can catch up on sleep. I worry that at our age we may not come through this, although we are fit and very "with it". I worry about my husband who is in his 80s and still working, but thankfully his company has asked him to work from home now. Shops here in Oz are still empty even though we are told there is enough for everyone. I have paid some terrible prices for meat like you mentioned in your blog. I think I have enough tinned and packet food to last for about 8 weeks, but it is the dairy, bread, fruit and vegetables which are very pricey and I need to go out for regularly. My husband is a coeliac and I have been trying to get a little extra for him each time I shop, as I can't feed him normal food. Some shoppers have been grabbing gluten free food even though they don't need it, which means there is none left for those who really need it. I miss my family and just want to see them too. They are too far away to travel. We are still having problems with people meeting in groups and I wonder when they will start to "self isolate". It is the only way to stop this virus. I read many blogs and ring and email friends. My mind is strong, but I do worry about the future. Regards, Robyn

karen said...

so sorry to read about the food shortage there, what a crazy world! Last week there was no bread, frozen veggies and the eggs were picked over and I paid nearly $6 for a carton of organic name brand eggs. I hope that your stores restock soon.

Jean Winnipeg said...

I had a smile about your expenive turkey. After several days of empty meat shelves I saw a farm online that was elling frozen chickens and they had drop off points in the city, so one evening we met up with their van and got a decent sized chicken, which is now cooked and will provide a fair number of meals nd then become soup. Our supplies are a bit hit and miss now so when I see anything I get it.Paper products are non existent. The hardest part is not seeing my grand children as they are us ae self isolating- we did buy a better phone before everythbg shut down so we can face time --- what a treat that is! I did pop iknto their mailbox a letter and some favourite chocolate bars the other ay, and will do that again also as another way of keeping in touch. I am taking a course online also, good luck with yours. It is a scary time. I enjoy your blog.

Nance said...

I'm like you: when I'm stressed, I try to put that nervous energy to good use to at least get a benefit from it.

We were just issued a Stay At Home Order here in Ohio. It's not really all that scary, however; most people are covered under essential services, so all my men are still going to work. It increases my stress, but I try to stay calm. Not easy. The grocery stores here have redistributed their warehouse stock, so items are not in as short of supply, and some limits have been imposed. I'm good right now, and I've always been a waste-not cook anyway.

Thanks for sharing your son's always charming life and smile.

Christina said...

I do love Little Buddy's workstation, very organised. Maybe I could ask him to run a few button pressing tasks for me, I always have a pile that needs doing :-)

It is a different kind of life from that we are used to, that's for sure. I expect that once we have settled into a new routine, we'll all feel less anxious. People might stop stockpiling and hopefully the shops will then be able to keep up with demands. Uncertainty is a difficult one to get used to though. I am glad you have your big boys staying with you, too. My oldest is across town in his flat, recovering from what very much sounds like Covid-19. Of course we'll never know because testing is only available for those that have to be hospitalised. He's just lost his job, which was not unexpected (he works in a restaurant kitchen) because all restaurants are closed here.

One day at the time is my motto for the week. Sending you love and a virtual hug xx

Bridget said...

I have the feeling that by the time all of this is over, everyone will have sparkling clean homes and perfectly organized closets ...

Take care, Meredith!

Delighted Hands said...

We might as well adjust to our new normals! I loved seeing Buddy's 'office'!

kathy b said...

Oh Lil Buddy... He will be fine in life because He so pays attention to some great adults he lives with and loves so very much. ITs great to see him always! I pray for your quiet son, and his sad heart. Now this virus, I hope it isn't all too much for him. I hope he will open up to someone I know he is.
Could your son teach ? let me know. What was his major? The company Zach works for is looking for more english teachers.....desperately for online teaching

Jeannie Gray Knits said...

Your office area is so beautiful with the sunlight coming through the window. I wish I could get interested in spending my time cleaning and purging. Actually, I guess I am purging my yarn stash as I sit here even more than normal obsessively knitting. The pantry is getting a pretty good purge too. We did find some toilet paper so we'll survive another week.
Stay sane,

Anonymous said...

Little Buddy is medicine for my soul!
and these pictures of him (and his work station) are pure dee WONDERFUL!
and you can see the shy adoration in his smile with his 'new' girlfriend!
I love thinking of him in his very own TENT!
and Hank and Bear. so adorable. and as long as they can SEE... and we can see their expressions!... it's all good.
I love how your family has come together to make the best of this amazing situation. it's like playing our parts in a very strange science fiction movie.
only it's not a movie!
bless you darling Mere. and take care of you. XO

Vera said...

Good to hear from you in these crazy times. I love Little Buddy's office space with phones and calculator. He is just too much! Stay well and healthy!!

Karen said...

LB is surrounded by so many loving people. He seems to draw people to him so naturally.

It feels good to have lots of time to get things in order. My house is getting a good declutter for sure.

Be well!

Anonymous said...

Little Buddy is getting so big and he is a handsome young man. Glad you were able to find a turkey. That should last a while. Stay well and safe. God Bless.
Marilyn

Beth said...

Little Buddy’s office set-up with phones and calculator brought a much needed smile to my face today! Thanks for sharing. Be well.

Eileen said...

Hello, all well here in our small world of isolation! Life certainly does feel surreal lately. I haven't been in a food store for over 2.5 weeks, so haven't seen the totally empty shelves. We started getting ready for this pandemic early Feb. stocking up, though we didn't buy anything we normally don't buy.
Little Buddy has the right idea-one can never have enough phones!

You and your family take care!

Needles and Wool said...

It sounds like you are all pretty busy and glad to hear you are all doing okay. It is such a crazy time right now. I am trying to keep myself being and productive so I can be positive place. Keep safe!

mamasmercantile said...

Just catching up with as many blogging friends as possible whilst I have internet connection which is patchy at best. Little Buddy is always medicine for my soul and today was no exception. Take care dear friend and stay safe.

Sandy said...

Loved how Buddy set up his own office, truly cute. He see's what the adults are doing. Hubby's been working at home for 2 wks so far, in the basement. I just have to be careful when I do laundry, in case he has a conference or video call. LOL. Glad you're all adjusting. I too think schools will be done for the year, but so far they've not officially said anything beyond April 6th I think. Only time will tell. Stay well

Jodiebodie said...

Hi Meredith,
Checking in to let you know that I am safe and currently working on a new blog post. I wish I could be as consistent as you are in your posting schedule! How lucky you are to have beautiful people in your family. I have been thinking of you and wishing for your safety through this storm. More news to come (including more crochet to look at)... love and hugs xxx

Una said...

I'm catching up on blogs today. I didn't realise that toilet roll shortage was an international problem. I saw some in my supermarket yesterday, but it came in packs of 18. Nobody, including me, was tempted to buy it as we have been told not to use cars or public transport unless we are essential workers. Walking home with a jumbo pack of toilet rolls didn't appeal.

I managed to get a vet appointment for my old cat who needed her claws trimmed and her fur combed out. Luckily it happened just before our lockdown. She needs her claws trimmed every couple of months though, or they grow into her paws. I'm hoping the vet is open by then.

As for MY hair, I have the type of short haircut that needs regular trimming. This week, I have had to cut the fringe and some messy bits at the back...with a combination of mirrors. I wish I just had a simple long style. It might go that way if the hairdresser has to stay closed much longer. But I complain too much, I am still well and don't know anyone who has caught this virus. It doesn't seem real until I watch the tv news.

handmade by amalia said...

Nice to catch up on your week, dear Meredith, and to know that you are all well. We are in strict isolation right now, not allowed more than 100m outside unless grocery or medicine shopping. I'm also doing a lot of stress cleaning and a LOT of crafting. Thank heaven for crafting and blogging, a bit of sanity in a crazy world. Stay safe!
Amalia
xo

Jodiebodie said...

Thank you Amalia (above) for the correct description: "stress cleaning" (I like that). It goes with the description of my last outing in the beginning of February: "apocalypse shopping" where I managed to stock up on extra things which protected me from having to go out amidst all the "panic buyers". So many new phrases in our daily language now!?!

I am so impressed with how much stuff you got done, Meredith, before it was even lunchtime! My goodness. It's nice to have an organised house but it is also worrying because it is an indicator of how much anxiety you are feeling. You are not alone. I am very very scared because of my immune compromised status.

My children are using this time in a similar fashion to you - they are cleaning out their rooms (looking so neat and tidy) and emptying them into the living area (I am not impressed with the shifting of the clutter). We found out today that the op shops are all closed and not taking donations of clothing etc. which is a shame because we have some woolly hats and puffer jackets to donate to keep people warm as winter approaches.

Oh well...we can't do much more and just need to wait it out: "shelter in place" (another new entry into my vernacular). Sending hugs from across the oceans. xxx