Some days, Aidan has to be reminded what day it is. He's lost track. There really isn't anything to give him much structure, aside from his Google Meets on Tuesday and Wednesday. The rest of the time, there isn't anything to give any structure. I think I might get him his own calendar to mark the days off. I have also left him notes of his daily chores with a sentence at the top that says, Today is Tuesday, April 28th. . .
The Food supply is breaking. The Processing Plants are closing down because so many of the workers are getting sick. So, there are farmers out there raising hogs and chickens having to euthanize their animals because there isn't any way to process them. God knows what will happen with our food supply in the coming months.
As I indicated above, Distance Learning is happening. They began Google Meets last week which was added to Edmenton with assignments as well as Hyperdocs. It's all very crazy. It is some of the hardest things I've had to do, be a Homeschool teacher in a Distance Learning environment, plus working full time without any sports.
There is talk of possible reopening. The rule for the Commonwealth of Virginia is that we need to have 14 days in a row of decreasing new cases. Some days I despair that this will ever happen. Others it seems like it might be possible. We'll see. If Trump had his way, everything would just reopen and be back to normal immediately.
These days there are many in need. St. Matthews Episcopal Church is buying baby formula, diapers, food, etc. for the people living near the church. I've sent a couple of checks and will try to send more. There are just so many in need. . .
Today's numbers, ever higher:
World: 3,042,444
United States: 1,010,277
Virginia: 13,535
Loudoun County: 628
Maryland: 19,487
Washington, D. C.: 3892
Stay safe. Stay well.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Pandemic 4/23/2020
The government is beginning to talk about possible reopening of some businesses. But, they want to do it in a slow orderly fashion to be sure there is no resurgence. The rule for Virginia is that when we have 14 days in a row of decreasing new diagnoses, then we can begin reopening in small ways. We had a three day downward trend going, but then we went right back up again. So, we aren't reopening yet.
Georgia is going in full force with reopening everything. Most people vehemently disagree with this approach. Although, there are some, like two of my cousins, who feel that this is all a hoax. That we are being lied to by the media and the government. Ironic since they are also supporters of the current President.
I was finally able to get my medicine. It's been backordered by Giant for a couple of weeks. My RA doctor got frustrated and changed where I get the prescription and now it will come in the mail. The next 90 day bottle arrived on Monday. I had one pill left in the original. Timing.
Online learning has stepped up in Loudoun County. This week began live online learning. Tuesday is A day and they run through the blocks just like they are at school. 1/2 hour of teaching by the teacher and then 1/2 hour to do some hyperdocs. Wednesday is the same thing but it is B day schedule. Monday, Thursday and Friday are days to do the hyperdocs and other quizlets/tests or assignments. And the teachers have "Office Hours" during Monday, Thursday and Friday. We weren't sure how it was going to work but it seems to be okay. There are no cameras or microphones, but they kids can see who all is there (as can the teachers). So, there is some interaction at least! Maybe they won't be socially inept after this is done. Aidan actually liked it, so that was good. Only problem I see is that since it is working, will this be the norm for the future? LCPS Board did meet on Tuesday night and discussed scenarios where Distance Learning online could continue next fall. Oy vey.
We went to Meadows Farms last Saturday and bough a bunch of plants. I wanted to redo one of our gardens with some roses. I bought three yellow ones because they make me think of my inlaws. They will be pretty in the outside corner of our porch. I also put some Dianthus and Lavender over thre.
One final thing before I post today's numbers:
When all of this started, I told Pat we needed to invest in Netflix. If people were home for an extended period of time, Netflix was bound to get a work out. Yesterday, Netflix announced that their membership nearly doubled during the first quarter. And no, we didn't buy it! Should have listened to me!!
The numbers as of this morning:
World: 2,639,243
United States: 855,250
Virginia: 10,266
Loudoun County: 475
Maryland: 14,775
Washington, D. C.: 3,206
Stay safe. Stay well.
Georgia is going in full force with reopening everything. Most people vehemently disagree with this approach. Although, there are some, like two of my cousins, who feel that this is all a hoax. That we are being lied to by the media and the government. Ironic since they are also supporters of the current President.
I was finally able to get my medicine. It's been backordered by Giant for a couple of weeks. My RA doctor got frustrated and changed where I get the prescription and now it will come in the mail. The next 90 day bottle arrived on Monday. I had one pill left in the original. Timing.
Online learning has stepped up in Loudoun County. This week began live online learning. Tuesday is A day and they run through the blocks just like they are at school. 1/2 hour of teaching by the teacher and then 1/2 hour to do some hyperdocs. Wednesday is the same thing but it is B day schedule. Monday, Thursday and Friday are days to do the hyperdocs and other quizlets/tests or assignments. And the teachers have "Office Hours" during Monday, Thursday and Friday. We weren't sure how it was going to work but it seems to be okay. There are no cameras or microphones, but they kids can see who all is there (as can the teachers). So, there is some interaction at least! Maybe they won't be socially inept after this is done. Aidan actually liked it, so that was good. Only problem I see is that since it is working, will this be the norm for the future? LCPS Board did meet on Tuesday night and discussed scenarios where Distance Learning online could continue next fall. Oy vey.
We went to Meadows Farms last Saturday and bough a bunch of plants. I wanted to redo one of our gardens with some roses. I bought three yellow ones because they make me think of my inlaws. They will be pretty in the outside corner of our porch. I also put some Dianthus and Lavender over thre.
One final thing before I post today's numbers:
When all of this started, I told Pat we needed to invest in Netflix. If people were home for an extended period of time, Netflix was bound to get a work out. Yesterday, Netflix announced that their membership nearly doubled during the first quarter. And no, we didn't buy it! Should have listened to me!!
The numbers as of this morning:
World: 2,639,243
United States: 855,250
Virginia: 10,266
Loudoun County: 475
Maryland: 14,775
Washington, D. C.: 3,206
Stay safe. Stay well.
Sunday, April 19, 2020
Pandemic 4/19/2020
Today's number coi chue to be alarming at best:
World: 2,395,636
United State: 759,134
Virginia: 8537
Loudoun County: 385
MAryland: 12,830
Washington, D. C 2793
We are joining the throng of folks doing a Victory Garden. We've always done vegetables. But, this year, we're doing even more. And we're doing a lot of herbs. WE have our chickens, but I wish we could do some bees too. Not good, though, in our urban setting.
I changed up a garden out back. The one at the corner of our porch outlined by a rock wall. We bought a couple of roses, a lavender, some phlox and some dianthus. One more rose and we'll be set for that garden. I love it already!
Aidan is outgrowing so many of his clothes, including his underpants. So, after dinner today, he and I did some shopping online for him. Sort of fun! Sort of. . .
Stay safe. Stay well.
World: 2,395,636
United State: 759,134
Virginia: 8537
Loudoun County: 385
MAryland: 12,830
Washington, D. C 2793
We are joining the throng of folks doing a Victory Garden. We've always done vegetables. But, this year, we're doing even more. And we're doing a lot of herbs. WE have our chickens, but I wish we could do some bees too. Not good, though, in our urban setting.
I changed up a garden out back. The one at the corner of our porch outlined by a rock wall. We bought a couple of roses, a lavender, some phlox and some dianthus. One more rose and we'll be set for that garden. I love it already!
Aidan is outgrowing so many of his clothes, including his underpants. So, after dinner today, he and I did some shopping online for him. Sort of fun! Sort of. . .
Stay safe. Stay well.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Pandemic 4/15/2020
It's cold today. It's only 38* this morning and expected to be even colder tomorrow morning. And it's raining right now. I guess the winds will pick up as well at some point over the next day or so.
Today is Wednesday and I'm working from home. I'm enjoying the one day a week. I am getting a lot done, answering a lot of calls, AND I'm able to supervise Aidan's school work. Today, that is very important because Loudoun County is beginning Distance Learning of new material. I still maintain that it will be difficult, at best, for students to learn a Foreign Language through Distance Learning. I'm just hoping Aidan can pass French.
Gas at the Paeonian Springs Shell is now $1.79. Honestly, this is the lowest I've seen gas prices since 9-11. I remember we were all very shocked a few days after 9-11 when the gas prices shot up to $1.84. . .and they only went up from there. I still have a 1/4 tank that I purchased a month ago (at $2.09 a gallon!!) but I'm still going to fill up tomorrow on the way to work. I can't not take advantage of that $1.79! And to think I thought $2.09 was awesome!!
Okay, time for some numbers:
World: 2,008,977
United States: 614,451
Virginia: 6171
Loudoun County: 344
Maryland: 9472
Washington, D. C.: 2058
Maryland is up over 1200. Makes Virginia's almost 900 seem not so bad. . .but it is bad. We're still rising. The President keeps talking about wanting to get people back to work and reopen the country. But, what about a resurgence? That is the big concern--if we go too fast, we could have a second wave. Please God, no second wave, okay??
Yesterday, I ordered several seed packets from Monticello for vegetables and herbs. I'm excited about them. I'm hoping to talk Pat into going to Meadows Farms this weekend so we can pick up some plants. It's a little early still for bedding plants, but I could keep them on the porch where they would be protected.
I also ordered two storage boxes where we can store cushions for the furniture that is outside. I'm hoping to get the patio and porch cleaned up this weekend. But, what to do about that old refrigerator? We also have the old steps from the pool. I'm going to see if we can just take that apart and store it in the work room so we can keep it, just in case we have to buy another pool this summer. We tossed the old one because it had some rips in the lining. And we hadn't planned on buying a new one. However, if the neighborhood pool and the one at Ida Lee don't open this summer, we will want something.
I saw something on the news the other morning saying Maryland is considering distance learning for next year. I can't even. . .
I think I'm going to try and start getting some nature pictures to put on here at the beginning of each post. Maybe something to look at and contemplate.
Stay safe. Stay well.
Today is Wednesday and I'm working from home. I'm enjoying the one day a week. I am getting a lot done, answering a lot of calls, AND I'm able to supervise Aidan's school work. Today, that is very important because Loudoun County is beginning Distance Learning of new material. I still maintain that it will be difficult, at best, for students to learn a Foreign Language through Distance Learning. I'm just hoping Aidan can pass French.
Gas at the Paeonian Springs Shell is now $1.79. Honestly, this is the lowest I've seen gas prices since 9-11. I remember we were all very shocked a few days after 9-11 when the gas prices shot up to $1.84. . .and they only went up from there. I still have a 1/4 tank that I purchased a month ago (at $2.09 a gallon!!) but I'm still going to fill up tomorrow on the way to work. I can't not take advantage of that $1.79! And to think I thought $2.09 was awesome!!
Okay, time for some numbers:
World: 2,008,977
United States: 614,451
Virginia: 6171
Loudoun County: 344
Maryland: 9472
Washington, D. C.: 2058
Maryland is up over 1200. Makes Virginia's almost 900 seem not so bad. . .but it is bad. We're still rising. The President keeps talking about wanting to get people back to work and reopen the country. But, what about a resurgence? That is the big concern--if we go too fast, we could have a second wave. Please God, no second wave, okay??
Yesterday, I ordered several seed packets from Monticello for vegetables and herbs. I'm excited about them. I'm hoping to talk Pat into going to Meadows Farms this weekend so we can pick up some plants. It's a little early still for bedding plants, but I could keep them on the porch where they would be protected.
I also ordered two storage boxes where we can store cushions for the furniture that is outside. I'm hoping to get the patio and porch cleaned up this weekend. But, what to do about that old refrigerator? We also have the old steps from the pool. I'm going to see if we can just take that apart and store it in the work room so we can keep it, just in case we have to buy another pool this summer. We tossed the old one because it had some rips in the lining. And we hadn't planned on buying a new one. However, if the neighborhood pool and the one at Ida Lee don't open this summer, we will want something.
I saw something on the news the other morning saying Maryland is considering distance learning for next year. I can't even. . .
I think I'm going to try and start getting some nature pictures to put on here at the beginning of each post. Maybe something to look at and contemplate.
Stay safe. Stay well.
Monday, April 13, 2020
Pandemic 4/13/2020
I keep hearing reports that we may be able to be somewhat back to normal by November. Seriously? But, that goes along with the 12-18 months I heard to begin with. The President wants to reopen the government by next month. We'll see how this all plays out.
Today's numbers as of this morning:
World: 1,850,200
United States: 561,103
Virginia: 5,274
Loudoun County: 309
Maryland: 8,228
Washington, D. C.: 1875
I hear Virginia had a big jump this weekend.
AS of this weekend, I have only been out to go to work for one full week. Aidan hasn't been anywhere or seen anyone, in person, for two weeks. Pat went to the store last Wednesday. None of us have any symptoms so I feel pretty good about our safety.
I cleaned and reorganized the Laundry Room this weekend. Not going anywhere is helping me get some of the deep cleaning projects done. And, with refunds coming for programs that we aren't doing now, I am really saving some cash.
Yesterday was Easter. Weird. Only the three of us. But, Aidan got a basket, we had ham and it was a quiet day. I watched an Easter Service from St. Matthews online. Good to see the service, but again, weird.
I gave myself a pedicure yesterday. It is a disaster. Even Aidan laughed at me! I guess I'll have to just take that polish back off.
Today's numbers as of this morning:
World: 1,850,200
United States: 561,103
Virginia: 5,274
Loudoun County: 309
Maryland: 8,228
Washington, D. C.: 1875
I hear Virginia had a big jump this weekend.
AS of this weekend, I have only been out to go to work for one full week. Aidan hasn't been anywhere or seen anyone, in person, for two weeks. Pat went to the store last Wednesday. None of us have any symptoms so I feel pretty good about our safety.
I cleaned and reorganized the Laundry Room this weekend. Not going anywhere is helping me get some of the deep cleaning projects done. And, with refunds coming for programs that we aren't doing now, I am really saving some cash.
Yesterday was Easter. Weird. Only the three of us. But, Aidan got a basket, we had ham and it was a quiet day. I watched an Easter Service from St. Matthews online. Good to see the service, but again, weird.
I gave myself a pedicure yesterday. It is a disaster. Even Aidan laughed at me! I guess I'll have to just take that polish back off.
Thursday, April 9, 2020
Pandemic 4/9/2020
Today's news is that it appears the curve is beginning to flatten in New York. Thanks be to God!! It is still desperate there. Apparently, the virus came to New York in February by travelers from Europe. It was before the travel ban was put in place.
Todays numbers:
World: 1,484,811
United States: 434,791
Virginia: 3645
Loudoun County: 238
Maryland: 5529
Washington, D. C.: 1440
Officials are warning that it appears the Washington, D. C. area is becoming a new hotspot. If you look at the map, it does appear they are correct. Further, they are saying we won't peak in our area until about April 22. Because of this, Pat and I scrambled to stock pile additional food and drink items with the idea that we won't be going anywhere except for our jobs for the next two week. Neither of us wants to go to the grocery store anymore. At this point, if we run out of something, we won't restock it until this is over.
I'm very worried about Aidan. He is a social bug. And he isn't getting any social interaction. . .except for what he gets while on Xbox. Also, I've now had more than one message from teachers saying he hasn't opened their hyperdox on Google Classroom. He and I had a discussion about this yesterday and he promises to get on the homework now. Not sure what to do about this.
Thunderstorms yesterday morning and this morning followed by dropping temperatures and high wind. We're so ready for Spring! We want to plant in the dirt, but can't find plants online to purchase. We're going to keep looking, though.
Stay safe. Stay well.
Todays numbers:
World: 1,484,811
United States: 434,791
Virginia: 3645
Loudoun County: 238
Maryland: 5529
Washington, D. C.: 1440
Officials are warning that it appears the Washington, D. C. area is becoming a new hotspot. If you look at the map, it does appear they are correct. Further, they are saying we won't peak in our area until about April 22. Because of this, Pat and I scrambled to stock pile additional food and drink items with the idea that we won't be going anywhere except for our jobs for the next two week. Neither of us wants to go to the grocery store anymore. At this point, if we run out of something, we won't restock it until this is over.
I'm very worried about Aidan. He is a social bug. And he isn't getting any social interaction. . .except for what he gets while on Xbox. Also, I've now had more than one message from teachers saying he hasn't opened their hyperdox on Google Classroom. He and I had a discussion about this yesterday and he promises to get on the homework now. Not sure what to do about this.
Thunderstorms yesterday morning and this morning followed by dropping temperatures and high wind. We're so ready for Spring! We want to plant in the dirt, but can't find plants online to purchase. We're going to keep looking, though.
Stay safe. Stay well.
Monday, April 6, 2020
Pandemic 4/6/2020
The numbers as of today:
World: 1,276,302
United States: 337,309
Virginia: 2637
Loudoun County: 167
Maryland: 3609
Washington, D. C.: 998
They are saying we may become a hotspot because people keep gathering in large crowds. This weekend it was the wharf. What are people thinking??? Pat and I don't even like going to the grocery store.
The government has now stated that people should wear masks or some kind of covering on our faces when out and about. I guess I'll set up a bandana to begin with. We do have 3 N95 masks, but I'm saving them in case things really get desperate.
There is some word that Hydroxychloroquine can be used for patients who have tested positive. This is the medicine I take for my Rheumatoid Arthritis. When we first heard that it could be something to use, both Aidan and Pat were so excited that I have protection. But, now, because the government is stockpiling the drug, I can't get it. It's on back order. If I take it every day, I run out on April 19th. So, Pat asked me last night to start taking it every other day, which will extend the time I have it. I suppose that is good advise.
Aidan has been worried about what we would do for his birthday. I told it may feel suckey this year, but we can still celebrate with just us--he wants a new phone and lobster : 0 And then after it is over, we'll get three of his friends together and go to Top Golf and then come back to the house for a sleep over and tons of junk food. He was happy about that.
I am ready for Easter, too. I have all the food--just need to cook it. And I even have an Easter basket for Aidan with his favorite hockey and chocolate treats. AND we are ready to Live Stream Church services. Amen!!
That's it for now.
Stay safe. Stay healthy!
World: 1,276,302
United States: 337,309
Virginia: 2637
Loudoun County: 167
Maryland: 3609
Washington, D. C.: 998
They are saying we may become a hotspot because people keep gathering in large crowds. This weekend it was the wharf. What are people thinking??? Pat and I don't even like going to the grocery store.
The government has now stated that people should wear masks or some kind of covering on our faces when out and about. I guess I'll set up a bandana to begin with. We do have 3 N95 masks, but I'm saving them in case things really get desperate.
There is some word that Hydroxychloroquine can be used for patients who have tested positive. This is the medicine I take for my Rheumatoid Arthritis. When we first heard that it could be something to use, both Aidan and Pat were so excited that I have protection. But, now, because the government is stockpiling the drug, I can't get it. It's on back order. If I take it every day, I run out on April 19th. So, Pat asked me last night to start taking it every other day, which will extend the time I have it. I suppose that is good advise.
Aidan has been worried about what we would do for his birthday. I told it may feel suckey this year, but we can still celebrate with just us--he wants a new phone and lobster : 0 And then after it is over, we'll get three of his friends together and go to Top Golf and then come back to the house for a sleep over and tons of junk food. He was happy about that.
I am ready for Easter, too. I have all the food--just need to cook it. And I even have an Easter basket for Aidan with his favorite hockey and chocolate treats. AND we are ready to Live Stream Church services. Amen!!
That's it for now.
Stay safe. Stay healthy!
Thursday, April 2, 2020
Pandemic 4/2/2020
Totals as of today:
World: 1,002,159
United States: 238,063
Virginia: 1706
Loudoun County: 121
Maryland: 2331
Washington, D. C.: 653
I shouldn't just focus on the numbers, I know. But, I am not tracking the deaths nor am I tracking the recoveries. Just the diagnoses. Maybe when we get to the end, I'll make a note of the totals for all of it. For now, though, these increases are stunning. And disturbing.
Everything seems so negative these days. I want to see something positive each day. Today is about gas prices. The Shell station in Paeonian Springs has been $1.79 a gallon for over a week. Ironically, two weeks ago, I filled up the Traverse to the tune of $2.09 per gallon. I cheered and celebrated! And, because I haven't been driving anywhere on the cheap gas, aside from work, I still have 3/4 of a tank. So, I haven't been able to take advantage of the $1.79 a gallon. . .but still. . .woo hoo!!! Gas hasn't been this low since 9/11.
Stimulus Relief checks are expected to begin being processed tomorrow. These will be deposited directly into our bank account. Ironically, Pat and I are still working full time with full pay. So, the stimulus isn't necessary for us. So, we'll do some good for someone else--specifically a local small business--with the money.
I am sensing Allanis Morrissette in the above paragraphs. . .
A couple of weeks ago, I was wondering if we would be back to normal by the end of April. Now, I'm wondering if we'll be there by the end of June. It's that crazy these days. Yesterday, I worked from home and was able to really get a lot done as well as answer the phones. I made a great case for continuing to do this. So, next Wednesday I will work from home again. This allows me to supervise Aidan's Homeschooling better. I also come home at lunch to check in and make sure he is staying on track. This week has been a difference maker as far as Aidan is concerned. Thank goodness.
I think we're going to have to start wearing masks when we are outside and in public spaces.
I would never have thought we would be here in this place.
World: 1,002,159
United States: 238,063
Virginia: 1706
Loudoun County: 121
Maryland: 2331
Washington, D. C.: 653
I shouldn't just focus on the numbers, I know. But, I am not tracking the deaths nor am I tracking the recoveries. Just the diagnoses. Maybe when we get to the end, I'll make a note of the totals for all of it. For now, though, these increases are stunning. And disturbing.
Everything seems so negative these days. I want to see something positive each day. Today is about gas prices. The Shell station in Paeonian Springs has been $1.79 a gallon for over a week. Ironically, two weeks ago, I filled up the Traverse to the tune of $2.09 per gallon. I cheered and celebrated! And, because I haven't been driving anywhere on the cheap gas, aside from work, I still have 3/4 of a tank. So, I haven't been able to take advantage of the $1.79 a gallon. . .but still. . .woo hoo!!! Gas hasn't been this low since 9/11.
Stimulus Relief checks are expected to begin being processed tomorrow. These will be deposited directly into our bank account. Ironically, Pat and I are still working full time with full pay. So, the stimulus isn't necessary for us. So, we'll do some good for someone else--specifically a local small business--with the money.
I am sensing Allanis Morrissette in the above paragraphs. . .
A couple of weeks ago, I was wondering if we would be back to normal by the end of April. Now, I'm wondering if we'll be there by the end of June. It's that crazy these days. Yesterday, I worked from home and was able to really get a lot done as well as answer the phones. I made a great case for continuing to do this. So, next Wednesday I will work from home again. This allows me to supervise Aidan's Homeschooling better. I also come home at lunch to check in and make sure he is staying on track. This week has been a difference maker as far as Aidan is concerned. Thank goodness.
I think we're going to have to start wearing masks when we are outside and in public spaces.
I would never have thought we would be here in this place.
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