This is always a tough time of year for me after a winter of mostly going about the rituals of work and home and not much for time off or spiritual renewal. But now with this Covid-19 thing it is getting really hard to maintain a positive attitude. I am in the high risk group of over 60 and not on top of the health game and I am hoping the odds are on my side in this thing.

I manage a grocery store so I guess i get first shot at the supplies that we need. That doesn't worry me so much. As someone close to retirement the beating in the stock market is depressing. We are not super social folks and none of the cancellations have impacted us as it has for many of you. Continuing my normal ritual will keep me relatively unexposed with the exception of work. There i come in contact with hundreds to thousands of folks a day who I can only hope are being responsible.

Got a one nighter planned with a couple close friends at a state park camper cabin near the twin cities in 10 days, that should be fun. Then my annual trout fishing trip in SE MN in late april which is a highlight of my year. BWCA May 17th. Suspect that getting out in the woods a few times will improve my attitude but at what for me is always a tough time of year, the gloom and doom of the everyday news on politics, environment, the stock market and the virus is taking its toll. Hope better days are ahead.

Better days are ahead lindy. Do BWCA.comers get 1st in line for toilet paper?

Thanks yogi, got a good laugh out of that one. I can put aside an 18 month supply for you if you think that is enough:)

I'm sorry to hear this. Hang in there, and maybe pull out some maps or hop on the ones here and think of future trips.

We are bridging the gap by doing Maple Syruping. It keeps us busy enough and entertained this time of year.

This gave me hope.

Thanks Lindsey, I used to do a lot of winter camping but it is a lot more difficult these days. This time of year would be doable but my buddy who is crazy enough to join me is always gone for an extended period of time in late winter. Beautiful winter mornings and temps in the 20s are perfect, lows to zero or close, not a big deal. But not up to the extremes that we used to camp in.

Perhaps that is part of the problem, going from November to April with no time in the woods drive me nuts. Have to think about that.

Glad you can get out for an outdoors diversion.

Thanks Miss Molly, interesting read. It does give hope for the long run but actually in the short term it has one of the most dire forecasts I have seen - 40 to 70 % of the worlds population being infected in the short term and a mortality rate for the elderly of 1 to 10%.

The pandemic is only one of several things that are causing me concern - definitely a big one right now but there are so many concerns right now. If you offered me a chance to go back to 20 years old right now, I don't think I would take it. Lots of challenges ahead. I fear for the next few generations.

Hang in there Lindy. I’ve pretty much turned off the news and have just ignored my 401k. Hopefully by tripping time a lot of this will be in the past. If you need someone to talk to I’d be more than happy to.

Boy, give me 20 again and I will sit around the camp fire and we will solve all the worlds problems... I shit you not.............

Thanks Dave, appreciate the offer. I'll keep that in my back pocket.

Lindy, I feel like I'm supposed to write something encouraging, but COVID-19 is just warming up in America. It'll challenge us in the next week or two in ways my generation has never seen.

However, people in their 60s are only seeing fatality rates in China of 3.6%, if we can trust the Chinese. Japan, a country I trust, is seeing fatality rates of 28% for all people over 65, but Japan is the world's oldest country and I suspect many of those fatalities are people in their 80s and 90s. If you're in your sixties like I'm am, we'll likely survive.

I calm myself by accepting my mortality and summoning gratitude for the life I've lived. I think my generation, the Boomers, is the second luckiest generation of all time, surpassed only by my parents' generation. The Greatest Generation had the Great Depression and Hitler. Their parents had the Great Depression, WWI, and the 1919 influenza and so on, whereas we had cheap college, living wages when we were young, a strong middle class, no world wars or civil wars, etc. If the coronavirus snuffs me, I want to die in gratitude, for all I've seen and done.

That you worry about people younger than you and me speaks to your empathy. Be proud of that. I'm glad that a compassionate man is in such a key role right now, for many of your customers are shopping in fear.

I went canoeing today.
My daughter, who I haven't seen since Christmas, was in the bow. The water was clear and cold. The snow flakes were big as potato chips. The geese were pairing up and honking at each other and the Wood ducks were buzzing around and squealing. A few muskrats swam near the shoreline and a Bald Eagle launched out of a tree above our heads. From the stern seat of my canoe, I pretty much thought that everything I really cared about in the world looked pretty normal today.

Pretty much in the same situation age and seasonal wise, but anxiously looking forward to open water. It always cheers me up a bit. Hang in there a bit longer and things will get better.

cowdoc: "I went canoeing today.
My daughter, who I haven't seen since Christmas, was in the bow. The water was clear and cold. The snow flakes were big as potato chips. The geese were pairing up and honking at each other and the Wood ducks were buzzing around and squealing. A few muskrats swam near the shoreline and a Bald Eagle launched out of a tree above our heads. From the stern seat of my canoe, I pretty much thought that everything I really cared about in the world looked pretty normal today."

This is beautiful. Thank you

This is a serious issue and people should be taking the precautions suggested.

I am more of a glass is half full guy. Per Capita we have 3x more availability of critical care/ICU beds and ventilators than Italy we have 10x more than China. In addition we have the capacity to increase that number as we more ventilators in storage For emergencies than most countries have available total. We have ramped up O2 production, plants now are producing supplies 24/7 so the shortages causing deaths in those 2 above named countries hopefully do not occur.

An NBA player had Corona for 10-14 days and while he was at his most infectious state he played several games, breathing, touching, sweating on teammates and other players and he infected one other player—-most likely from his nonchalant cavalier hygiene...according to his teammates. This disease is contagious...take precautions but but it isn’t like just walking around and being around people will infect you.

I work in health care, albeit in a rehab facility, but I can assure we have had Covid-19 protocols in place since January and they are reviewed and updated several times daily. We have been screening and tracking patients that have traveled to infected/outbreak areas (no matter if it is an appointment with lab,MD, Psychologist, OBGYN, PT) since the early 2000’s and isolating as needed. For example, With these guidelines we have isolated and called for testing of patients in my PT clinic 2x, both in January, and were negative. That is just at a PT clinic that doesn’t see “sick” people. But my point is we have been looking across all health care now for months. They weren’t doing this in Italy, China didn’t have time top prepare. We have telemedicine to screen patients at home and to isolate if their symptoms are mild so they don’t come into the clinic and have contact with the more vulnerable, drive through testing started last week in the Twin Cities and will expand soon, insurance companies have waived costs or clinics are doing free testing (for people that need it)...

There are a lot of good things people/organizations are doing out there too is all I am saying it isn’t all doom and gloom. People are working hard to keep others safe.

T

Thank you, Tim, for all you and your colleagues are doing.

jillpine: "

cowdoc: "I went canoeing today.
My daughter, who I haven't seen since Christmas, was in the bow. The water was clear and cold. The snow flakes were big as potato chips. The geese were pairing up and honking at each other and the Wood ducks were buzzing around and squealing. A few muskrats swam near the shoreline and a Bald Eagle launched out of a tree above our heads. From the stern seat of my canoe, I pretty much thought that everything I really cared about in the world looked pretty normal today."

This is beautiful. Thank you"

What Jillpine said.

Thank you, timatkn for your encouraging post. As a "glass-half-empty" sort of person, it does me good to read something like that. :-)

The next few weeks are going to be scary, so it is good to know that people like you are holding down the fort in medical facilities.

I'll never forget what my friend Adam Schwartz once told me.

"My glass is always half-empty. Unless of course it's completely empty."

I laugh every time I think about it.

I suppose most people then don’t want to hear that I find this whole thing preposterous. I haven’t even bought TP in three weeks.
The fear and hysteria that people are feeling is far worse than the virus.

Sure I could cherry-pick bad stories on the internet all day like Missmolly does and then spread misinformation but I’m not that kind of guy.

Next year it will be a volcano, then more global warming, then a bomb. Human love to be scared and scare everyone with them. Maybe I just don’t fear death, or mayhem.

I am on another forum of a different group of people and most on that forum are far far more optimistic than the few on here that are screaming bloody murder.

This is all just my opinion and I’m not asking anyone to agree with me. But my little utopia surely makes life normal for me because, life is normal for the most part except the screaming hysteria of people freaking out about something they don’t understand.

Tom

I hope you're right, Tom. We might know in a few weeks.

tumblehome: "I suppose most people then don’t want to hear that I find this whole thing preposterous. I haven’t even bought TP in three weeks.
The fear and hysteria that people are feeling is far worse than the virus.


Sure I could cherry-pick bad stories on the internet all day like Missmolly does and then spread misinformation but I’m not that kind of guy.


Next year it will be a volcano, then more global warming, then a bomb. Human love to be scared and scare everyone with them. Maybe I just don’t fear death, or mayhem.


I am on another forum of a different group of people and most on that forum are far far more optimistic than the few on here that are screaming bloody murder.

This is all just my opinion and I’m not asking anyone to agree with me. But my little utopia surely makes life normal for me because, life is normal for the most part except the screaming hysteria of people freaking out about something they don’t understand.

Tom"

Hi Tom...

Just curious...what's your number? As in what number of people need to be infected and or die directly from the virus so that any preparations they have taken thus far is justified?

I don't know how bad it's going to get, but I haven't seen much in the way of hysteria..no rioting, overturned cars, fires, ect. I'm in the Midwest so maybe it's a bit different around here. Looks to me like most people are just using common sense and getting prepared for a disruption in life that could turn into something long term . Be Prepared, something ingrained in me by the Boy Scouts long ago.

I don't knock anybody for getting prepared... everybodys risk tolerance, ie, their number, is different, so what's yours?

When I think of missmolly's voice on this forum I certainly don't think of misinformation.

You're right Tom, we don't understand this and that 'we' includes you. I get it, not all of us are afraid to die but have a little compassion for your neighbors that are worried about their loved ones.

I agree with you that there is no need to panic. However, there is a need for each one of us to act responsibly so we have a chance at slowing down the spread in this country.

Some scientists think that a warm snap might help. I think we all could use one anyway.

Thanks, fadersup.

It's pretty warm in Madrid and Rome right now and Spain's death total doubled today and Italy also set a new high today.

Again, I hope Tom's right. I hope the epidemiologists are wrong. I hope the virus behaves differently here.

In the meantime, the Boy Scout motto sounds pragmatic to me.

Tumblehome, you are completely right the panic and hoarding is ridiculous. Some people are fanning the flames...sure I get that...there is room in the middle though.

The other side of the coin is we need to prepare for the worst case scenario and you have to do that BEFORE their is a major issue.

What we can learn from China and Italy is that when the amount of sick people spikes suddenly we just can’t plain take care of all the people. That is where a lot of the mortalities are coming from. This is preventable. Why not take every precaution to slow this down, give medical teams time to react and take care of people.

For what’s it worth, I don’t have cable news, I listen to the radio and watch the,local station’s. I think the media has done a great job of getting experts on to say relax, do your part, don’t panic, buy what ya need, don’t hoard. Most of the panic seems to come from social media or the cable “news”/entertainment outlets.

This is a time we need to help and take care of each other, some of that is doing our part to reduce transmission. Some of that might be getting supplies for a neighbor or friend under quarantine, maybe dropping off supplies to an elderly or at risk neighbor who doesn’t want to go out or has been advised not to. I guess I see the bad going on, but I also see a lot more of people helping each other out now...

T

Closing bars and restaurants at midnight here in illinois.....

tumblehome: "I suppose most people then don’t want to hear that I find this whole thing preposterous. I haven’t even bought TP in three weeks.
The fear and hysteria that people are feeling is far worse than the virus.


Sure I could cherry-pick bad stories on the internet all day like Missmolly does and then spread misinformation but I’m not that kind of guy.


Next year it will be a volcano, then more global warming, then a bomb. Human love to be scared and scare everyone with them. Maybe I just don’t fear death, or mayhem.


I am on another forum of a different group of people and most on that forum are far far more optimistic than the few on here that are screaming bloody murder.

This is all just my opinion and I’m not asking anyone to agree with me. But my little utopia surely makes life normal for me because, life is normal for the most part except the screaming hysteria of people freaking out about something they don’t understand.

Tom"

It's OK Tom. There are many of us, doing a lot to make sure your life stays normal. Not freaking out, not hysterical but, working really hard to slow the spread of a novel virus for which there currently is no vaccine , unlike influenza, measles, mumps and polio.
I am optimistic because the vast majority of the population understands there is an elevated risk and are taking simple actions to moderate the risk for all of us. By slowing the spread of infection, those who will inevitably get sick, will have greater access to resources that enhance survive-ability i.e. mechanical ventilators, caregivers providing supportive care etc. It would be fantasy rather than optimism if I thought it would happen without those who would intervene.

Those who are currently doing the extraordinary make it much more likely that your utopia will remain ordinary.

tumblehome: "... I find this whole thing preposterous. ...
Tom"

Edit: I need to be a more caring person. So I deleted my snide comment and lame attempt at humor. Phil

+1. Keep the curve flat! I little inconvenience is ok for us all. I would not wish to pass this on to anyone who is at risk! This is not hysteria nor an over reaction. They did not have this information in 1918 - and I lost my Maternal Grandfather in that one!

My bad bars and restaurants close tomorrow night.

After my bone marrow transplant, I was in something resembling self-quarantine with some elements of social distancing plus a host of other restrictions. That lasted 4 months. Then there was another two months before I could go to the office, gym, or a restaurant. What we are being asked for now looks pretty easy to me. Been there, done that, staying alive is well worth it because we get back to all that joyous stuff that makes us happy.

cowdoc: "I went canoeing today.
My daughter, who I haven't seen since Christmas, was in the bow. The water was clear and cold. The snow flakes were big as potato chips. The geese were pairing up and honking at each other and the Wood ducks were buzzing around and squealing. A few muskrats swam near the shoreline and a Bald Eagle launched out of a tree above our heads. From the stern seat of my canoe, I pretty much thought that everything I really cared about in the world looked pretty normal today."

I learned a lesson from a wise old coot who happened to be my boss, many, many years ago. He noticed I always carried what seemed like the weight of the world on my shoulders, while he remained so calm. His advice, "Only worry about those things that you can control."

Best advice I ever got. Since that time, I have had many more moments like yours from the stern seat of my canoe.

Cheer up Brian...

OCDave:
It's OK Tom. There are many of us, doing a lot to make sure your life stays normal. Not freaking out, not hysterical but, working really hard to slow the spread of a novel virus for which there currently is no vaccine , unlike influenza, measles, mumps and polio.
I am optimistic because the vast majority of the population understands there is an elevated risk and are taking simple actions to moderate the risk for all of us. By slowing the spread of infection, those who will inevitably get sick, will have greater access to resources that enhance survive-ability i.e. mechanical ventilators, caregivers providing supportive care etc. It would be fantasy rather than optimism if I thought it would happen without those who would intervene.


Those who are currently doing the extraordinary make it much more likely that your utopia will remain ordinary. "

Thanks OCDdave,

I know the medical community is overwhelmed right now. I was asked what number of deaths would be needed to make me freak out. I don't have a number.

I have been through some real dark days in my life and maybe those days have taught me to understand that I am in control of very little in my life. so I'm just livin' life right now. And I still haven't bought any TP.

Statistically, we are all likely to die of something else. But society is putting all their money on a very rare chance of dying from this pandemic. Some people are bonifide freaking out. I hope they find solace. And others are profiteering from it and I hope they find their conscience.

Tom

I admit I was kinda sceptic... but while watching people hoard things like toilet paper and such was kinda funny to me, I think cool heads and all is what is going to get us through. It’s becoming a long drawn out winter and that plays into it around here. It’s good to know there are great minds out there working on this and the precautions we’re being asked to take are nothing compared to the lives that are potentially saved.
Being in this community of paddlers really helps with our down times. There has been good encouragement on this thread and I hope all will be able to get out soon and do the things we all love. Mow grass... I mean paddle!

The perspectives offered by some posts in this thread put a real smile on my face. Let me add just a simple observation from yesterday:

I went ice fishing for what is likely to be my last outing this year. I sat alone on a lake watching the moon set, my breath visible in the frosty morning air. Waterfowl flew in from the south on their seasonal journey.

Some young teenage boys pulled sleds onto the lake and BS'd among themselves. Normal teenage boy talk when parents aren't around mixed with plans on where to target the trout in this lake. It put a smile on my face to, in one moment, escape into nature, and in another moment be reminded of the carefree nature of a child's life. They weren't worried about the virus. They were worried about what a crush's text response was and where to fish. Beautiful

moustachesteve: "The perspectives offered by some posts in this thread put a real smile on my face. Let me add just a simple observation from yesterday:


I went ice fishing for what is likely to be my last outing this year. I sat alone on a lake watching the moon set, my breath visible in the frosty morning air. Waterfowl flew in from the south on their seasonal journey.


Some young teenage boys pulled sleds onto the lake and BS'd among themselves. Normal teenage boy talk when parents aren't around mixed with plans on where to target the trout in this lake. It put a smile on my face to, in one moment, escape into nature, and in another moment be reminded of the carefree nature of a child's life. They weren't worried about the virus. They were worried about what a crush's text response was and where to fish. Beautiful"

Made my day! Thanks MS for sharing!

Tony

This is not "screaming hysteria." It is interesting:

"The Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard offers some advice. In his writings, he argues that there are three ways — stages of development, actually — that illustrate how people deal with whatever life hurls at them. The least evolved individuals are those who simply give up, surrendering to life’s daunting challenges. At the highest level is the “knight of faith.” On this elevated plane, even if you have every reason to believe that doom threatens, you can still believe that things are somehow, some way, going to work out just fine. It’s one part absurdist, Joan Didion-like magical thinking, to another part steadfast belief in a benevolent divine will. It’s recognizing, as a steely Didion does, that sometimes “life changes fast. Life changes in an instant” for the worse, yet still finding reason to hope.

But it’s the third Kierkegaard option that does the trick for me. Maybe my Bronx roots have left me too combative to run from a fight, and I’ve grown too old (and watch cable news too often) to believe in happy endings.

It’s this interim stage, the one nestled between his two extremes, that I’m trying to settle into as I attempt to navigate through these dicey times. I’m doing my best to try to emulate Kierkegaard’s “knight of infinite resignation.” That is, I see what’s lurking out there, all right, but I’m trying, with mixed success, to whistle my way insouciantly through the potential apocalypse."

I have a British buddy and he sent me this.

The English are feeling the pinch in relation to recent virus threat and have therefore raised their threat level from “Miffed” to “Peeved.” Soon, though, level may be raised yet again to “Irritated” or even “A Bit Cross.”

The English have not been “A Bit Cross” since the blitz in 1940 when tea supplies nearly ran out.

The virus has been re-categorized from “Tiresome” to “A Bloody Nuisance.” The last time the British issued a “Bloody Nuisance” warning level was in 1588, when threatened by the Spanish Armada.

The Scots have raised their threat level from “Pissed Off” to “Let's Get the Bastard.” They don't have any other levels. This is the reason they have been used on the front line of the British army for the last 300 years.

The French government announced yesterday that it has raised its alert level from “Run” to “Hide.” The only two higher levels in France are “Collaborate” and “Surrender.” The rise was precipitated by a recent fire that destroyed France's white flag factory, effectively paralyzing the country's military capability.

Italy has increased the alert level from “Shout Loudly and Excitedly” to “Elaborate Military Posturing.” Two more levels remain: “Ineffective Combat Operations” and “Change Sides.”

The Germans have increased their alert state from “Disdainful Arrogance” to “Dress in Uniform and Sing Marching Songs.” They also have two higher levels: “Invade a Neighbour” and “Lose.”

Belgians, on the other hand, are all on holiday as usual; the only threat they are worried about is NATO pulling out of Brussels.

The Spanish are all excited to see their new submarines ready to deploy. These beautifully designed subs have glass bottoms so the new Spanish navy can get a really good look at the old Spanish navy.

Australia, meanwhile, has raised its alert level from “No worries” to “She'll be alright, Mate.” Two more escalation levels remain: “Crikey! I think we'll need to cancel the barbie this weekend!” and “The barbie is cancelled.” So far, no situation has ever warranted use of the final escalation level.

tumblehome: "

OCDave:
It's OK Tom. There are many of us, doing a lot to make sure your life stays normal. Not freaking out, not hysterical but, working really hard to slow the spread of a novel virus for which there currently is no vaccine , unlike influenza, measles, mumps and polio.
I am optimistic because the vast majority of the population understands there is an elevated risk and are taking simple actions to moderate the risk for all of us. By slowing the spread of infection, those who will inevitably get sick, will have greater access to resources that enhance survive-ability i.e. mechanical ventilators, caregivers providing supportive care etc. It would be fantasy rather than optimism if I thought it would happen without those who would intervene.



Those who are currently doing the extraordinary make it much more likely that your utopia will remain ordinary. "

Thanks OCDdave,


I know the medical community is overwhelmed right now. I was asked what number of deaths would be needed to make me freak out. I don't have a number.


I have been through some real dark days in my life and maybe those days have taught me to understand that I am in control of very little in my life. so I'm just livin' life right now. And I still haven't bought any TP.


Statistically, we are all likely to die of something else. But society is putting all their money on a very rare chance of dying from this pandemic. Some people are bonifide freaking out. I hope they find solace. And others are profiteering from it and I hope they find their conscience.


Tom"

No Tom, you were asked how many people have to get sick/die in order for it to be justifiable to get prepared.

Tumblehome I did see the French are still protesting having to work.

I agree mid-March is a tough time of the year, everything is greyish here in S.E. Mn. I find that I need to force myself to get out for a walk or bike ride, otherwise I'll just sit around and put on some more pounds. It helped seeing others out and about when I hit the trails yesterday. Even though the forcast is for more of the same, and it seems quiet around town.

Even though Shakesphere penned the words beware the ides of March, would we have been better off (collective mood wise) if Ceasar had left the New year celebration in Mid-March instead of moving it to January? A national holiday in March might give us something to look forward to during this seasonal transition.... Just a random thought.

I do find myself looking forward to spring a bit more than normal this year.

As the OP I appreciate all the responses, a variety of insights, inspirations and even some encouragement. As the days progress and the news certainly doesn't improve any I find myself still with some gloom tempered with some optimism and hope. To some extent I guess I find myself accepting the dramatic changes that have begun to appear in our way of life that will likely continue for a while and perhaps a long while. I suspect that acceptance is an emotion that many will adjust to over the coming weeks and months. It is still a little bit surreal though that this innocuous little virus could bring America, and indeed the world to it's knees to some considerable extent. Didn't see that coming.

I could and will strive to adjust to the changes and the social distancing in general isn't that hard for me. But as mentioned in the OP I am in that higher risk group in age and with some health issues. My occupation as the manager of a busy grocery store with thousands of customers a week is the only exception and to that extent I feel a bit powerless to practice the recommended lifestyle. I can't retire just yet and I somehow doubt my employer would give me a couple months off because I am old.

The frenzy I see every day in the store probably isn't helping any either, people buying anything and everything they can get their hands on only contributes to the feeling that this must be a big deal. And because of the business I find that I have to chip in on the front lines much more than normal, only increasing the exposure.

If you live in a rural area or in the northwoods I can understand a little less concern with the virus itself but being in a 3 million person metro area and community transmission now a proven thing, it is concerning. I feel a little like I am putting myself in the path of an oncoming train with my feet locked to the tracks and the key is just out of reach.

Nonetheless I am trying to be optimistic, or at least not pessimistic because I realize that will be counter productive and because I do believe in the Serenity Prayer (worry about the things you can control)and I think that once the weather turns the corner I will again be able to rejoice in the day, so to speak, and get out on some outdoor adventures again. That is the best kind of therapy for me.

Hope I am not coming off as whining, I realize so many positive things in my life and how many millions of people are much worse off every day. Just thought I could open up a bit to this community of folks I admire and enjoy in hopes of gaining some positivity, understanding and insight.

Be happy and healthy, all of you.

A toast to you lindy.

Not whining at all, lindy.

There are several front lines in this war:

One is the scientists who are working crushing hours to develop antivirals and vaccines.

The other is the many leaders who are working overtime to batten the hatches and bolt the doors.

Then there are direct care healthcare workers.

Then there are people like you, lindy, who are keeping your neighbors fed and toiling while so many of us are hiding. I'd include factory workers and truckers and others in this list.

So, thank you, thank you, thank you, to all of you.

I just came back from lunch, there was only one other table with two people in it. I sat about 20 feet away from them. One of them sneezed and blew his nose, but it was probably the spicy food, I had to wipe mine after eating too.

so what was I supposed to do, go to the grocery store and fight dozens of people hoarding food? IMO, it was a lot safer going to the restaurant, had a nice spicy beef asian dish for 8 bucks with lots of fresh veggies and sliced beef from a real hunk of meat instead of all that processed crap people are fighting over at the grocery stores

there were three workers at the 'raunt, there'd be far more at the grocery stores, so I was playing the odds

ZaraSp00k: "I just came back from lunch, there was only one other table with two people in it..."

Went to breakfast at Perkins yesterday with a friend. That gave a grand total of 9 people including the two waitresses.

Some people are kind of driving strange too. They seem distracted and spaced out.

My 25 year old nephew who works at a convenience store just got sent home to a 14 day quarantine and the store was closed for disinfecting. It was in Polk County in western Wisconsin. He said a women came in and bought a soft drink and hot dog then announced she had just been diagnosed positive. I hope people aren’t just lying about being positive and closing down businesses because they are mentally ill, evil or trying to sabotage their competition.

missmolly: "Not whining at all, lindy.

There are several front lines in this war:
Then there are people like you, lindy, who are keeping your neighbors fed and toiling while so many of us are hiding. I'd include factory workers and truckers and others in this list.

So, thank you, thank you, thank you, to all of you. "

Yes, agree! thanks Lindy and everyone else working in areas to keep us fed and supplied.

T

Hey lindy, we did a 192 monday. How about you? Mwd west.

tumblehome: "


I have a British buddy and he sent me this.


The English are feeling the pinch in relation to recent virus threat and have therefore raised their threat level from “Miffed” to “Peeved.” Soon, though, level may be raised yet again to “Irritated” or even “A Bit Cross.”


The English have not been “A Bit Cross” since the blitz in 1940 when tea supplies nearly ran out.


The virus has been re-categorized from “Tiresome” to “A Bloody Nuisance.” The last time the British issued a “Bloody Nuisance” warning level was in 1588, when threatened by the Spanish Armada.


The Scots have raised their threat level from “Pissed Off” to “Let's Get the Bastard.” They don't have any other levels. This is the reason they have been used on the front line of the British army for the last 300 years.


The French government announced yesterday that it has raised its alert level from “Run” to “Hide.” The only two higher levels in France are “Collaborate” and “Surrender.” The rise was precipitated by a recent fire that destroyed France's white flag factory, effectively paralyzing the country's military capability.


Italy has increased the alert level from “Shout Loudly and Excitedly” to “Elaborate Military Posturing.” Two more levels remain: “Ineffective Combat Operations” and “Change Sides.”


The Germans have increased their alert state from “Disdainful Arrogance” to “Dress in Uniform and Sing Marching Songs.” They also have two higher levels: “Invade a Neighbour” and “Lose.”


Belgians, on the other hand, are all on holiday as usual; the only threat they are worried about is NATO pulling out of Brussels.


The Spanish are all excited to see their new submarines ready to deploy. These beautifully designed subs have glass bottoms so the new Spanish navy can get a really good look at the old Spanish navy.


Australia, meanwhile, has raised its alert level from “No worries” to “She'll be alright, Mate.” Two more escalation levels remain: “Crikey! I think we'll need to cancel the barbie this weekend!” and “The barbie is cancelled.” So far, no situation has ever warranted use of the final escalation level.
"

Thanks for the laugh!

Pete, we have been up 60 to 100 % most days, Monday we were up 163% from prior year same day. Simply incredible and I am tired:) Because schedules are written a couple weeks prior we obviously don't have the staff to handle it. Response from our employees has been incredible, positive attitude and above and beyond efforts are common. My job is to keep that going and to motivate and appreciate the folks that are stepping up. Curious to see how long this lasts...

I think the panic buying will end soon as most people fill their cupboards and then their shelves.

I do hope the panic buying stops soon. It is good for people to stock up to some degree but we are going to have to hit a steady state. Because I am in a high-risk medical group, I am currently staying away from the grocery store until things calm down. Our local grocery is doing only seniors, 65 and older, for the first hour each morning. I may ask them if other high risk people can join in.

We did get a bunch of excellent veggies at our local farm stand yesterday with no crowds. Local veggies is the upside of being in the SF Bay Area.

The downside is being a hot spot and having everything shut down unless it is essential. We will be working at home until at least April 7th. On the good side, we are still allowed to take walks outside. A good number of people were doing that yesterday evening when we took one. We just stayed 6 feet from other groups.

Restaurants are now closed except for take-out and delivery. Many will do curbside. So if you want to avoid the grocery store you can still do that. People are also pitching in and offering to do shopping runs for seniors.

As for levels of concern, my oncologist is fond of saying, "this is not a crisis." I never managed to find out what would be a crisis but when I relapsed after my bone marrow transplant she did go all the way to, "oh my." I think this might be at the "oh my" level.

Take care, Lindy. It is very obvious what a huge job all the grocery store workers are doing.

Feeling very thankful for the internet and online ordering. I was able to shop online for groceries yesterday. I was feeling sick and didn't want to expose anyone. So I just pulled up the car and they set my groceries in the back. Later in the day I started running a fever and the online medical assessment came back as a probable case of coronavirus based on my symptoms. But they won't test me since they are running low on test supplies and I am noncritical. Now on quarantine in my bedroom, but at least my teenage son has food to eat :)

Stay healthy everyone. Especially those of you with high public exposure. I am a school teacher, so even though no cases were brought to our attention last week, my guess is that is where I picked it despite my intense precautions.

So when you see the stats on how many positive cases are in the US, you can probable at least triple it due to all the people they are refusing to test.

Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. If it does turn out that way I suspect, in large part, it will be due to the various measures that have been taken to slow the disease. I don't feel hysteria from the various medical experts at the federal and local level responsible for managing our response. Most of them seem calm, informed and deliberate. I believe they are doing their best.
On the other hand I can not fathom the panic buying of products at the grocery store. For the love of Mike, give that a rest. When you greedily overbuy for yourself you have effectively taken that product away from your friends and neighbors. I live in a 55 and up community in the winter and it is very sad to see the sadness in my neighbors faces when they can not get their basic needs met at the grocery store.
Most importantly, as a retired person, I profoundly thank everyone that is still working in law enforcement, health care, the grocery stores, etc. There is no sheltering in place or limiting contact for those folks-----just exposing themselves each and every day, often with a smile on their faces.
Hats off to them.
And stay healthy to all of you.

missmolly: "I think the panic buying will end soon as most people fill their cupboards and then their shelves. "

At this point it is hard to differentiate what is panic and what is planned. With multiple stores closing or curtailing hours on top of global supply line interruptions, I am beginning to wonder if I should have stocked up.

OCDave: "

missmolly: "I think the panic buying will end soon as most people fill their cupboards and then their shelves. "

At this point it is hard to differentiate what is panic and what is planned. With multiple stores closing or curtailing hours on top of global supply line interruptions, I am beginning to wonder if I should have stocked up.


"

This is how I feel. I don't think this will be that crazy and I have a job no matter what. But the stores not being able to maintain stock, I had to go out and buy some stuff just in case. It is all stuff you will use eventually so no wasted money. Who knows if the food trucks will continue operating at the level they are? It isn't worth the risk to me.

GraniteCliffs: "Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. "

Oh it will. As this gets sorted out, it will become known that this particular strain of virus is hardly more lethal then all the other strains out there.
Society just latched onto this one in the worst way.

And when it's all done they will find that the death rate will be about the same as the common flu that we already accept as part of life. It is already accepted that the infected rate is substantially higher than we know. But the death rate is a known number as people die. So the ratio is way off right now until they get a better understanding of actual infection rates.

And we already know that most people just feel crummy for a few days to a week, like the common cold. Which by the way is also a coronavirus.

tumblehome: "

GraniteCliffs: "Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. "

Oh it will. As this gets sorted out, it will become known that this particular strain of virus is hardly more lethal then all the other strains out there.
Society just latched onto this one in the worst way.


And when it's all done they will find that the death rate will be about the same as the common flu that we already accept as part of life. It is already accepted that the infected rate is substantially higher than we know. But the death rate is a known number as people die. So the ratio is way off right now until they get a better understanding of actual infection rates.

And we already know that most people just feel crummy for a few days to a week, like the common cold. Which by the way is also a coronavirus.


"

Thing is we'll never know if we did too much, but it will immediately be clear if we did too little.

If these measures are successful it will be "an over reaction".

cowdoc: "I went canoeing today.
My daughter, who I haven't seen since Christmas, was in the bow. The water was clear and cold. The snow flakes were big as potato chips. The geese were pairing up and honking at each other and the Wood ducks were buzzing around and squealing. A few muskrats swam near the shoreline and a Bald Eagle launched out of a tree above our heads. From the stern seat of my canoe, I pretty much thought that everything I really cared about in the world looked pretty normal today."

Nice Cowdoc!

tumblehome: "

GraniteCliffs: "Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. "

Oh it will. As this gets sorted out, it will become known that this particular strain of virus is hardly more lethal then all the other strains out there.
Society just latched onto this one in the worst way.


And when it's all done they will find that the death rate will be about the same as the common flu that we already accept as part of life. It is already accepted that the infected rate is substantially higher than we know. But the death rate is a known number as people die. So the ratio is way off right now until they get a better understanding of actual infection rates.

And we already know that most people just feel crummy for a few days to a week, like the common cold. Which by the way is also a coronavirus.


"

If this is true, then why did China shut down their economy and build temporary hospitals? Why the shocking death tolls in Italy? You’re saying this happens with the common flu? Or also an over reaction? Or just made up?

Hopefully, the fear mongering is done to error on the side of safety, I am stuck in the house, having an allergic reaction to my dog, just waiting for the pack of toilet paper stealing zombies to hit my street. They will never get my stash of Huggy's Wet Wipes or my remaining packs of Mountain House. Hoarders beware, if the warning shots from my Wrist Rocket doesn't turn them, I have noisy things that will stop them. On a more serious note, all of this does seem to have a conditioning feel to it, what's next?

tumblehome: "

GraniteCliffs: "Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. "

Oh it will. As this gets sorted out, it will become known that this particular strain of virus is hardly more lethal then all the other strains out there.
Society just latched onto this one in the worst way.


And when it's all done they will find that the death rate will be about the same as the common flu that we already accept as part of life. It is already accepted that the infected rate is substantially higher than we know. But the death rate is a known number as people die. So the ratio is way off right now until they get a better understanding of actual infection rates.

And we already know that most people just feel crummy for a few days to a week, like the common cold. Which by the way is also a coronavirus.


"

This is how my old high school buddy John would have dealt with you... "No! Stop! You're wrong!"

"Most people recover — those with mild illness in about two weeks, ..." It seems most every article about the virus contains this comment. But the articles always contain dire reports.???

jhb8426: ""Most people recover — those with mild illness in about two weeks, ..." It seems most every article about the virus contains this comment. But the articles always contain dire reports.???"

Because the small fraction that do die could be a horrific number.

“ As The New York Times reported last week, epidemiologists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently prepared four scenarios. Their calculations showed a large range of possible fatalities in the United States: between 200,000 and 1.7 million Americans over the course of Covid-19, assuming minimal efforts to contain it.”

Article here

On the good side, during a talk on lymphoma patients and covid-19 today, the doctor emphasized that we should expect progress on treatment and getting it later will be better than getting it now. So stay safe and hopefully even more of us will recover well.

So to dispel the gloom and doom, we can truly make a difference.

I’ve had more than my share of life’s crap. The coronavirus is just another disaster, bigger than most, but I’m ready. Doctors told me I had ten years to live twenty years ago. I’m experienced in crap. I don’t need thirty days in the Arctic, two hours at Lebanon hills works just fine. The woodcocks will be doing their thing soon, it happens at dusk and is magical, or really just about the craziest things birds do. You are welcome to come along, email if interested. Getting outside every day is super important for our mental health

Outside walks are allowed under our county shelter in place ordinance. So yes, that is fine and important. However, you are supposed to stay 6’ from people you are not living with. So take a walk sort of together.

jwartman59: "I’ve had more than my share of life’s crap. The coronavirus is just another disaster, bigger than most, but I’m ready. Doctors told me I had ten years to live twenty years ago. I’m experienced in crap. I don’t need thirty days in the Arctic, two hours at Lebanon hills works just fine. The woodcocks will be doing their thing soon, it happens at dusk and is magical, or really just about the craziest things birds do. You are welcome to come along, email if interested. Getting outside every day is super important for our mental health
"

Twenty years after a prediction of ten, Mr. 59? You da man!

I look forward to the mourning doves and most of all, the hummingbirds. I've been enjoying the owls and woodpeckers already.

I have planted so many trees that perform in the spring, so soon, I'll have pink, purple, yellow, orange, and red leaves to enjoy and I just ordered ten flowering trees that I'll have to plant, which is always a chore in rocky Maine, but work is good.

As the Good Book almost says, "Idle hands are the Devil's Worry Workshop."

Banksiana: "

tumblehome: "

GraniteCliffs: "Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. "

Oh it will. As this gets sorted out, it will become known that this particular strain of virus is hardly more lethal then all the other strains out there.
Society just latched onto this one in the worst way.



And when it's all done they will find that the death rate will be about the same as the common flu that we already accept as part of life. It is already accepted that the infected rate is substantially higher than we know. But the death rate is a known number as people die. So the ratio is way off right now until they get a better understanding of actual infection rates.


And we already know that most people just feel crummy for a few days to a week, like the common cold. Which by the way is also a coronavirus.



"

Thing is we'll never know if we did too much, but it will immediately be clear if we did too little.


If these measures are successful it will be "an over reaction"."

Ah, I see you see how our species thinks.

tumblehome: "

GraniteCliffs: "Like everyone else I certainly hope this current situation turns out to be an over reaction. "

Oh it will. As this gets sorted out, it will become known that this particular strain of virus is hardly more lethal then all the other strains out there.
Society just latched onto this one in the worst way.


And when it's all done they will find that the death rate will be about the same as the common flu that we already accept as part of life. It is already accepted that the infected rate is substantially higher than we know. But the death rate is a known number as people die. So the ratio is way off right now until they get a better understanding of actual infection rates.

And we already know that most people just feel crummy for a few days to a week, like the common cold. Which by the way is also a coronavirus.

Really ? How did you come to your conclusions ? Given our "leaders" response to this, it will get worse before it gets better. This does have a higher death rate than the flu, and since there is none of the equipment to deal with this, a test shortage, a ventilator shortage, and a leadership shortage, we are in for a bad time, especially in urban areas. Telling medical workers to use bandanas in place of masks is the height of ignorance.


"

Video summarizing what COVID-19 does to a body.

jhb8426: ""Most people recover — those with mild illness in about two weeks, ..." It seems most every article about the virus contains this comment. But the articles always contain dire reports.???"

No personal experience (I believe in vaccinations) but, recall from an infectious disease class that Polio was comparable. The majority of those who contracted Polio experienced a mild, brief illness. A minority of those who contracted polio experienced life-long paralysis or death. You won't read many articles about polio that don't stress those dire outcomes.

I had a classmate who wore Forrest Gump-braces on his legs because of polio, but he never got to shed them like Forrest did. As a child, NOTHING scared me as much as an iron lung.

missmolly: "I had a classmate who wore Forrest Gump-braces on his legs because of polio, but he never got to shed them like Forrest did. As a child, NOTHING scared me as much as an iron lung."

When I was young, there were 3 children that had polio within 1 mile of our home. We were in the middle of a triangle. Two recovered and one had minor on going symptoms.

Neil

Spartan1: "

missmolly: "I had a classmate who wore Forrest Gump-braces on his legs because of polio, but he never got to shed them like Forrest did. As a child, NOTHING scared me as much as an iron lung."

When I was young, there were 3 children that had polio within 1 mile of our home. We were in the middle of a triangle. Two recovered and one had minor on going symptoms.


Neil"

As I posted, I thought, "I won't be the only one who witnessed polio."

Let’s see:
627 people dead in Italy from the virus.
In 24 hours.
And only getting worse.
What a tragedy. I can’t imagine living there.
Hard to call it an overreaction now given these numbers could be in any of our home areas if we did not take precautions. Even with precautions our numbers will climb rapidly.

missmolly: "

Spartan1: "

missmolly: "I had a classmate who wore Forrest Gump-braces on his legs because of polio, but he never got to shed them like Forrest did. As a child, NOTHING scared me as much as an iron lung."

When I was young, there were 3 children that had polio within 1 mile of our home. We were in the middle of a triangle. Two recovered and one had minor on going symptoms.



Neil"

As I posted, I thought, "I won't be the only one who witnessed polio." "

I didn't witness polio, but the iron lung scared me as a kid. My step Dad who was born in Biwabik in 1930 had polio. He had braces on his legs and had a very hard time moving around. He was quarantined at home as a young boy. His Mother would carry him to the front window of the house and put "Ed" in the window. He would watch the others kids come home from school and play outside his house. They think he picked up polio at a picnic in Duluth. Another child that was at that picnic also got polio. He worked his way out of the braces.

Both my Mother and Ed have said this reminds them of the polio epidemic.

My step Dad "Ed" is in the hospital now and on oxygen. With fluid in his lungs and an infection. The hospital will not let any visitors in to see him. However he says he feels good and everyday he says he is coming home tomorrow.

Ely at 10 am

Spartan1: "

missmolly: "I had a classmate who wore Forrest Gump-braces on his legs because of polio, but he never got to shed them like Forrest did. As a child, NOTHING scared me as much as an iron lung."

When I was young, there were 3 children that had polio within 1 mile of our home. We were in the middle of a triangle. Two recovered and one had minor on going symptoms.


Neil"

My mother had a brother who died of polio. NE Minneapolis, early 1940s. Time from first symptoms until death: 23 hours.

Mike

missmolly: " Video summarizing what COVID-19 does to a body. "

Thanks. Excellent video.

Shared with family. By far the funniest thing this week. Bravo!!

Bushpilot, I hope your step-dad keeps feeling good and gets home soon. It sounds like he has a great attitude in a tough situation.

Thanks Andy, he is a great role model!

I work in a hospital fulltime so I believe I have a high chance for coming into contact with someone with Covid-19. I'm not a fear monger...I am afraid...afraid that I may contract it and give it to someone else who could die from contracting it. I have two friends in quarantine that were exposed at their jobs.

I have 5 people in my family...we use at least a roll of toilet paper a day. There is the potential that we could be on quarantine for 10 or more weeks if one of us gets sick and the others slowly get sick from that person. So that means I would need to have at least 84 rolls of TP on hand. Hoarding or just preparing for a very real possibility? For the record I currently have about half that which what my TP stock is normally at since I shop at Costco.

I have bought more nonperishable food than normal so that my family can eat if we are on quarantine. We could also rely on my sister to drop off at the front walkway if we were running out but I would prefer not to have her out in the community more shopping for us.

I’ve been making use of my canoe tripping days wisdom and dehydrating hamburger and sausage. I still have some stuff I feel could get used up soon. I don’t like the hysteria, but the joking was kinda funny. Sense of humor is good medicine... but some joking is getting old. Lots of cool heads here... this has been a good read. Both being a patient and a responder has taught me how important our medical facilities are. One thing I have found is the best equipped facilities with poor staffing holds no candle to less equipped with good staffing. Doctors and nurses are amazing people. Think about it... they have to put up with people like us everyday!

I have also been monitoring this thread. Many people have been stating that we are currently running at 1.5% fatality rate. They are correct at least currently. However here is what is scaring me.

Sorry not smart enough to figure out how to put links in.

Here is a graph of China's Covid 19 cases-->https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/china/

Here is the US's-->https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/us/

The shape of these curves are very different and unless we can reverse the course, the outcome in the US may not end up like what has happened in other countries. People have every right to believe or not believe what is coming out in the media. However please don't risk other's lives. I am one of those at risk people........

When this is all said and done I hope every single one of those calling this a hoax are right. I will happily take on the moniker of "Chicken Little". ;)

nctry: "I’ve been making use of my canoe tripping days wisdom and dehydrating hamburger and sausage. I still have some stuff I feel could get used up soon. I don’t like the hysteria, but the joking was kinda funny. Sense of humor is good medicine... but some joking is getting old. Lots of cool heads here... this has been a good read. Both being a patient and a responder has taught me how important our medical facilities are. One thing I have found is the best equipped facilities with poor staffing holds no candle to less equipped with good staffing. Doctors and nurses are amazing people. Think about it... they have to put up with people like us everyday! "

1+ agree

This is really an interesting post and I really enjoy the different view points.

I typed out a whole thing but deleted because I think differently than a lot of folks.

I will just say I find it ironic what people worry about. And also I don't want things to go back to "normal". I want people to finally realize whats really important and act accordingly. This includes me.

I was walking my dog the other day through the neighborhood and saw something I hadn't seen it many a moon. Families sitting around the kitchen table with each other in more than a few houses. It made me smile and gave me hope.

I hope you all stay healthy and make it through these trying times and have many paddling days ahead! Listen to some Neil Young and hug your loved ones.
Opps, maybe just bump elbows for now.

luft: "I work in a hospital fulltime so I believe I have a high chance for coming into contact with someone with Covid-19. I'm not a fear monger...I am afraid...afraid that I may contract it and give it to someone else who could die from contracting it. I have two friends in quarantine that were exposed at their jobs.


I have 5 people in my family...we use at least a roll of toilet paper a day. There is the potential that we could be on quarantine for 10 or more weeks if one of us gets sick and the others slowly get sick from that person. So that means I would need to have at least 84 rolls of TP on hand. Hoarding or just preparing for a very real possibility? For the record I currently have about half that which what my TP stock is normally at since I shop at Costco.


I have bought more nonperishable food than normal so that my family can eat if we are on quarantine. We could also rely on my sister to drop off at the front walkway if we were running out but I would prefer not to have her out in the community more shopping for us."

Hospitals are scary places nowadays. Even some/most health care providers are afraid or will be.

missmolly: "

luft: "I work in a hospital fulltime so I believe I have a high chance for coming into contact with someone with Covid-19. I'm not a fear monger...I am afraid...afraid that I may contract it and give it to someone else who could die from contracting it. I have two friends in quarantine that were exposed at their jobs.



I have 5 people in my family...we use at least a roll of toilet paper a day. There is the potential that we could be on quarantine for 10 or more weeks if one of us gets sick and the others slowly get sick from that person. So that means I would need to have at least 84 rolls of TP on hand. Hoarding or just preparing for a very real possibility? For the record I currently have about half that which what my TP stock is normally at since I shop at Costco.



I have bought more nonperishable food than normal so that my family can eat if we are on quarantine. We could also rely on my sister to drop off at the front walkway if we were running out but I would prefer not to have her out in the community more shopping for us."

Hospitals are scary places nowadays. Even some/most health care providers are afraid or will be. "

I am sure your right.
Even going to a local grocery store the atmosphere is just so different than usual. Just fills weird. People acting different but still polite.

Smile.



Here is a view from the other side of the coin.

Unas10: " Smile.



Here is a view from the other side of the coin. "

NYC docs are writing their wills. The view from the front line looks a little different than the view from this guy's basement.

Unas10: " Smile.



Here is a view from the other side of the coin. "

"I think..." "I think..." "I think..."

From a guy who reads Reddit to better understand cultural differences.

fadersup: "

Unas10: " Smile.




Here is a view from the other side of the coin. "

"I think..." "I think..." "I think..."

From a guy who reads Reddit to better understand cultural differences.
"

Morons like that are dangerous because they get other morons to listen to them

RTurner: "

fadersup: "

Unas10: " Smile.





Here is a view from the other side of the coin. "

"I think..." "I think..." "I think..."


From a guy who reads Reddit to better understand cultural differences.
"

Morons like that are dangerous because they get other morons to listen to them"

Thank you. You have shown me the error of my ways. It is foolish to consider other viewpoints. It is ridiculous to even think about it. Nothing like this has ever happened before. This whole situation is an insurmountable mess. Trees will not bud. Flowers will not bloom. People will not fall in love. Babies will not be born.

So, in regards to lindylair's OP, embrace the gloom, get used to it, wallow in it. The light at the end of the tunnel is just a speeding train headed your way.

Unas10: "

RTurner: "

fadersup: "

Unas10: " Smile.





Here is a view from the other side of the coin. "

"I think..." "I think..." "I think..."



From a guy who reads Reddit to better understand cultural differences.
"

Morons like that are dangerous because they get other morons to listen to them"

Thank you. You have shown me the error of my ways. It is foolish to consider other viewpoints. It is ridiculous to even think about it. Nothing like this has ever happened before. This whole situation is an insurmountable mess. Trees will not bud. Flowers will not bloom. People will not fall in love. Babies will not be born.


So, in regards to lindylair's OP, embrace the gloom, get used to it, wallow in it. The light at the end of the tunnel is just a speeding train headed your way. "

The guy in the basement is just spreading the message of his Russian masters and sowing the seeds of doubt, anxiety and misinformation. In the face of all the "advice" from the real, "knowledgeable" medical "experts" out there, how can some of us not fall for his hocum? I axkes?

tumblehome: "I suppose most people then don’t want to hear that I find this whole thing preposterous. I haven’t even bought TP in three weeks.
The fear and hysteria that people are feeling is far worse than the virus.


Sure I could cherry-pick bad stories on the internet all day like Missmolly does and then spread misinformation but I’m not that kind of guy.


Next year it will be a volcano, then more global warming, then a bomb. Human love to be scared and scare everyone with them. Maybe I just don’t fear death, or mayhem.


I am on another forum of a different group of people and most on that forum are far far more optimistic than the few on here that are screaming bloody murder.

This is all just my opinion and I’m not asking anyone to agree with me. But my little utopia surely makes life normal for me because, life is normal for the most part except the screaming hysteria of people freaking out about something they don’t understand.

Tom"

Still preposterous, Tom?

Update from the Op - all is reasonably well at this point. I have moved on mostly to acceptance of our situation with alternating optimism and concern. The grocery business and our company continues to experience significantly more business, supply chain disruptions and slow recovery, and both the worst and best of human nature. I find it incredible that there has not yet been an outbreak of infection in twin cities grocery stores (knock on wood) - we have taken a lot of precautions but it seems almost inevitable at some point.

I certainly don't think it is a hoax, it is very real and to observe the public in our stores, it is being taken very seriously. Hopefully that makes a difference.

My routine is home to work, work to home and on days off maybe a few errands and a nice long walk. Fine for now, hate to think it could go on this way for months. My annual spring trout fishing trip is cancelled due to the closures of all DNR controlled facilities including campgrounds. That hurts. Still hoping that our mid may BWCA trip can be pulled off.

Hoping that I remain healthy along with my loved ones and all of you and yours in this community, as much as possible.

cowdoc: "I went canoeing today.
My daughter, who I haven't seen since Christmas, was in the bow. The water was clear and cold. The snow flakes were big as potato chips. The geese were pairing up and honking at each other and the Wood ducks were buzzing around and squealing. A few muskrats swam near the shoreline and a Bald Eagle launched out of a tree above our heads. From the stern seat of my canoe, I pretty much thought that everything I really cared about in the world looked pretty normal today."

I found myself sitting here, quietly reading all these posts. My wife ( a nurse ) sleeping on the couch.... When I read this one, I got that lump in the back of my throat.

Thank you for the kind words....