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Post by Phalon on Mar 16, 2020 6:56:25 GMT -6
A thread to discuss whatever is on your mind regarding whatever is going on in your area regarding the virus.
Last week here, colleges went to on-line classes, our governor declared a state of emergency, K-12 schools closed, gatherings of 250 or more were banned, and of course, grocery store shelves are empty.
Just a few minutes ago it was announced that as of 3pm today all dine-in restaurants and bars in Michigan are closed, except for take out.
I wonder if I can get a Bailey's and coffee to go somewhere?
Trying times, Taters. Stay well.
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 17, 2020 1:00:24 GMT -6
I thought this would blow over in a couple of weeks ... but June? This isn't going to end well.
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Post by Phalon on Mar 17, 2020 7:20:35 GMT -6
Time frames about when the worst of it will be over are predictions - it's a new strain of virus, so there's no past experience of this particular one to drawn on. A virus typically peaks then tapers though, as it runs its course. Hopefully this one will follow suit, hopefully without as much damage as is being seen in Italy, for example, who imposed their strict measures too far into the spread of it in that country.
"Flattening the curve", as they say, is key - give the hospitals and medical teams as much time to prepare as possible. It's better to over-prepare than be under-prepared. Then there are people out there doing the 'it's an infringement on my Constitutional rights to gather, blah, blah, blah' and 'this is America' thing. Pfft. Common sense, people, please.
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Post by moonglum on Mar 18, 2020 3:27:16 GMT -6
I did read a report that estimated things would be like this till possibly spring 2021? Vox and I are in the high-risk group, both approaching 70, so we are self-isolating. Although that in itself is a bit of a joke, as although our youngest daughter is now working from home, her partner is still going out to work each day, (they both live with us). Still, writing is keeping me sane, so far! Vox got bitten by an insect yesterday on the bridge of her nose. This morning her face looks like she's gone 10 rounds with Mike Tyson.
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 18, 2020 4:02:54 GMT -6
I saw Vox's post on Facebook ... my heart goes out to her. I hope she feels much better than she looks.
Monday night they said that the virus should let up once the weather warms up, and stays there. And that when it cools back down in Autumn, we'd probably see it rear it's ugly head once again. And someone on Facebook posted a prediction from some time back, that a flu-like virus would pop up in early 2020, and then disappear as quickly as it arrived ... and then show back up ten years later. Since the prediction was right about a flu-like virus showing up in early 2020, I'm hoping they're also right about it disappearing as quickly as it appeared. I'm also hoping that if it does come back in ten years they have a vaccine for it.
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Post by moonglum on Mar 18, 2020 5:06:00 GMT -6
Thanks Joxie. She is still smiling.
That was actually the storyline in a book by Dean Koontz, The Eyes Of Darkness. I'm always a bit sceptical about what appears on Facebook, (when I go on there that is!).
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Post by Phalon on Mar 18, 2020 8:00:29 GMT -6
Poor, Voxie!!! But glad to hear she's still smiling! I hope the swelling goes down soon.
A week ago, my foot too looked like Mike Tyson used it for a punching bag, not due to something unpreventable like an insect bite, but due to my own carelessness. Our back porch steps actually lead to the side-yard, and if I'm going down them into the backyard, I usually skip the last couple of stairs, and jump off the side instead. It's something I've often told myself that I probably shouldn't do, because one day I'll land on my foot wrong on the uneven ground, and twist my ankle....which is exactly what I did a week ago; my foot swelled, and a few days afterward, my ankle and top of my foot were nice shades of black, blue, and green. And if twisting my ankle weren't enough, my ankle gave out when I landed causing me to fall....right into the big rose bush next to the porch! The rosebush and I became one - it look forever to free myself from the thorns grabbing hold of my hair.
At least Voxie has the insect to blame. I had no one to blame for my suffering but myself....well, maybe the rosebush just a little!
Same!
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 18, 2020 15:42:24 GMT -6
oh. Yeah! I remember that now. It was a quote from a book. Yeah. I couldn’t find the post to refresh my memory, so went with what I remembered. I always double check anything I see online with sites that post if it’s true or not.
A book called, The Titan was written years before the Titanic sank. It was based on a dream, and that’s all the author saw on the sinking ship in his dream. Or that’s a story I’ve seen on a fact or fiction TV Show. IIRC, it was fact. Time will tell if this work of fiction did indeed predict the future.
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Post by moonglum on Mar 20, 2020 1:03:28 GMT -6
One of the supermarkets opened it's first hour of business to elderly and vulnerable people only yesterday. Vox and I decided to get up early and go. We got the there about half an hour early and the queue was right along the side of the store, across the car park and out to the road. Most of the essentials were gone, the shelves empty and I've never seen pensioners moving so fast. Trolley fights and arguments were the order of things. We were glad to get out of there.
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Post by Phalon on Mar 20, 2020 7:34:33 GMT -6
I think that most of the big chain grocery stores here are doing the same - reserving time for the elderly to shop. We are in day 10 of the virus first showing up in Michigan, and our governor declaring a state of emergency. It seems like forever ago, but I know it's day 10 because that's the headline of the Michigan news site I read. I've been doing exactly what news articles tell you not to do: constantly check the news. I read world news and national news first, then state news, then check local news for the city where LX and the Boyfriend live, and then the local news in the college town where BP is, followed by the campus corona virus update at the college. I do this multiple times a day - the news is overwhelming. I have never been an anxious person, but yesterday, my anxiety was running rampant. I felt a strong urge to want my flock under my wing, and since they aren't here, I kept having to remind myself to breathe - literally, I found myself holding my breath at times. And so today, here are "10 Positive Updates on the COVID-19 Outbreaks from Around the World": www.goodnewsnetwork.org/10-positive-updates-on-the-covid-19-outbreaks-from-around-the-world/ And other pieces of good news: www.goodnewsnetwork.org/
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 20, 2020 15:36:36 GMT -6
Anyone who uses Chewy.com had better keep an eye on their Autoships to be able to switch out for products that are in stock, and have them ship a couple of weeks early. They’re running behind, so give them the extra time to be able to get you your supplies before you run out.
Thankfully, I thought to check on an autoship yesterday, so I swapped out for what was in stock, and I had it ship right away. My dog runs out of cans on the 31st, and Chewy needs 5 to 8 days to get the order processed. So, if I hadn’t checked until next week, the order wouldn’t be getting here in time.
I feel sorry for online companies being swamped with excessive buying. I was just placing my normal order. Although I did add a little extra just to try and give me extra days before the the next time I autoship. In case the wait is longer next time. Give them more time to process.
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Post by Phalon on Mar 21, 2020 8:56:12 GMT -6
Nooooooooo!
In addition to all the sh!t going on, the Hallmark Channel has decided to air their vast collection of inane Christmas movies back-to-back nonstop 24 hours a day! (at least for the time being)
Oh, the horror!
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 21, 2020 15:51:18 GMT -6
I didn’t watch them the first time, doubt I’ll watch them now.
So, how is everyone doing?
MG: How's Vox doing now?
Phalon: How's your injury? How are the girls doing? Can they not come home?
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Post by Phalon on Mar 22, 2020 6:59:37 GMT -6
I might have seen a few - not actually watched them, but had the channel on as background noise while I was doing other stuff. Seen one, seen them all; the plot never seems to vary much. I have to laugh though, every time I see the words Hallmark Christmas movies - Xena Sis is addicted to them, and basically anything on the Hallmark Channel.
Yes, how is Vox? I hope she is back to her normal Voxie Lady self.
Injury is gone; still a bit discolored, but not enough that anyone would notice except for me. Although, (lmao at myself) really who would be looking at my feet to notice? It's not like it's barefoot weather now.
The girls are fine; we keep in touch with daily texts, the "daily" part of it is my requirement while all this is going on. As far as coming home...
LX and The Boyfriend have their own apartment, living a little over an hour from here, with their three cats. They're both still working, but I worry what will happen if their places of employment close; neither have jobs that they can work from home. I think, but am not sure, there are guidelines that prohibit evictions during this time, if people lose their jobs. The Boyfriend texted me a photo last night of their well-stocked pantry, and I had to laugh because I'm sure the text was meant for his Mom, who lives in Oregon; he calls me "Mom" and every-so-often, I'll get a text from him that was intended for his Mom.
Much to my dismay, BP decided to stay at the college though classes are on-line for the rest of the semester - the residence halls are still open, at least for the time being. She's enrolled in the summer semester, and feels it's too much to haul everything home, then back up there again in less than two months....if there even will be a summer semester. A big part of that decision to stay though, is that her boyfriend is there. I honestly can't stand him, but I can't force her to come home either.
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Post by moonglum on Mar 22, 2020 8:47:45 GMT -6
The swelling on her face has gone now. However she is coplaining of feeling achey and really rough. I've checked her temp and it's normal and although she says she felt shivery during the night, there is no sign of fever.
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 22, 2020 12:48:58 GMT -6
MG: I hope it isn’t anything serious. Maybe her system is fighting something the bite put into it? Hopefully her body will sort it out and she’ll feel better soon.
Phalon: Seems they’re all grown up. But as a mother, you’ll never stop being protective. Sorry you don’t like the bf, maybe he won’t stick. I’ll cross my fingers.
Everyone stay safe. And check in if you’re lurking ... to let us know you’re okay. Okay Lurkers? Those of you who haven’t checked in in a while?
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Post by Phalon on Mar 23, 2020 7:46:26 GMT -6
Dang, Moonglum. It sounds like she had some kind of allergic reaction to the bite. Does she know what kind of insect bit her? Hoping she feels better! Yeah, I know I'm doing that (over) protective Mom Thing, and they've been really good about it. Our governor is expected to issue a "stay-at-home" order; press conference is at 11am. How about you, Joxie...I know you're very involved with your church. Do you have an on-line congregation service set up, or a way to check in with members? Photos of the Week, around the world: www.theatlantic.com/photo/2020/03/photos-of-the-week-social-distancing-hurdle-race-masked-tango/608407/
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 23, 2020 14:48:38 GMT -6
I missed Church on the 15th because I had had the trots the day before. A few days before I got the trots, Mom’s dog and I had dueling tummies. Each one tried to drown out the other. Then early the next morning, she demanded to be let out every two hours. She had had a haircut on the 3rd, and I had been in town two days in a row. So, I don’t know who got it first, or who passed it to the other.
I had created a page and two groups for Church a few years ago, and yesterday the preacher did his first Facebook Live in the main group. It was strange being in my nightie in bed during a Church service. — I created the page because Facebook already had one up members were using, but only Facebook had control over it. And I thought a group would work better for members to get together in. And the second group is just for prayer requests, and prayer chain emergencies. Not all members are online though, so they’re left out.
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 23, 2020 14:54:23 GMT -6
You know, I started typing out ‘overprotective,’ and I backtracked and removed ‘over.’ I think when you create a life, carry it, raise it ... you have the right to be a little excessive when scary things happen. It’s nature.
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Post by katina2nd on Mar 23, 2020 19:25:12 GMT -6
Sheesh, good to see some positive news, most of is is gloom and doom, to such an extent that it gets you down after a while. Government here has closed the country to overseas visitors (a lot later then they should have unfortunately) and has introduced partial shutdowns of non essential businesses (again, later they they should have and not comprehensive enough, hairdressers for instance are still open unbelievably) And this doesn't give you a lot confidence in the way things are being handled .............. www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-23/cruise-passengers-not-tested-for-coronavirus-before-disembarking/12081426Anyway, everyone stay safe, and Moonglum you be careful of those rampaging pensioners with their deadly shopping trolleys.
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 24, 2020 0:17:23 GMT -6
Hey, Kat ... nice to see you drop in. Take care of yourself. Nothing we can do about the delayed actions now, other than try our best not to be around anyone contagious.
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Post by moonglum on Mar 24, 2020 1:16:44 GMT -6
The Prime Minister announced a virtual lock-down last night. Only food stores and pharmacies can remain open. Everybody must remain indoors for at least 3 weeks, then it will be reviewed again. People can only go out to collect food or medicines or one exercise walk a day. This will be enforced by the police.
I'm thinking of getting a trolley and fitting an engine to it Kat! You all stay healthy and happy.
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Post by moonglum on Mar 24, 2020 1:38:25 GMT -6
UPDATE.
I've just seen the full list of retailers allowed to remain open in the UK.
Supermarkets and other food shops Pharmacies Petrol stations Newsagents Bicycle shops Home and hardware stores Laundrettes and dry cleaners Garages Pet shops Post Offices Banks
A couple of strange inclusions there!
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Post by katina2nd on Mar 24, 2020 21:01:18 GMT -6
Hey, Kat ... nice to see you drop in. Take care of yourself. Nothing we can do about the delayed actions now, other than try our best not to be around anyone contagious.
Yep, spilt milk and all that Jox, just staying healthy is the number one priority now for sure. The Prime Minister announced a virtual lock-down last night. Only food stores and pharmacies can remain open. Everybody must remain indoors for at least 3 weeks, then it will be reviewed again. People can only go out to collect food or medicines or one exercise walk a day. This will be enforced by the police. A step in the right direction, but should have been done far earlier really, same as here. I'm thinking of getting a trolley and fitting an engine to it Kat! You all stay healthy and happy. Sounds like a plan to me mate.
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 25, 2020 3:22:48 GMT -6
Someone told me today that someone in the county was positive for the virus ... ... and so it begins.
I haven't seen or heard of it in the news, so it could just be a rumor. It will get here eventually though, and the sooner it does, the sooner we can get on the other side of it. Hopefully, our area managed to distance itself before the virus ever got here ... but who knows, since it spreads before anyone shows signs of having it.
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Post by Phalon on Mar 25, 2020 7:18:26 GMT -6
Katina - big air hugs from a distance of six feet for you. Moonglum and Katina, at least the leaders of your countries have implemented those countrywide lock-down measures. Here in the U.S., it's left up to the individual states, and the governors of some states are leaving it up to cities to decide. There is no real clear-cut across the board measures. For example, Monday at 11am Michigan's governor instituted a statewide shut-down (very similar to what you posted, Moonglum), and an hour later, the governor of bordering state Indiana also issued a shut-down order. LX and her Boyfriend live in Michigan, but both work in Indiana - both states have very differing orders on what remains open. The economy, of course, is a very real concern, but to put it over the physical lives of millions of people? Our "leader" here in the last couple of days seems more concerned about economic disaster, expressing the desire to have things opened back up in a couple of weeks. In just the past two weeks for example, Michigan went from having 0 cases to being ranked fifth in the nation in confirmed cases. The sh!t hasn't even hit the fan yet. You got it right, Joxie - there are a lot of people who don't have kids who don't quite understand it that way. When something goes wrong, the absolute immediate thought of a parent is "are the kids ok, will they be ok, and what can I do to make sure they're ok". With the increasing bad news, I can't let those thoughts go, and I am still reading way too much news throughout the day. But on that note....here's this week's COVID-19 positive news: www.goodnewsnetwork.org/another-roundup-of-positive-updates-on-covid-outbreaks/
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 26, 2020 4:19:16 GMT -6
I especially like this one:
7) Nobel Prize Winner Who Correctly Predicted COVID-19 Trends Says ‘We’re Going To Be Fine’
According to a recently-published interview with the Los Angeles Times, Nobel laureate and Stanford biophysicist Michael Levitt has been “remarkably accurate” in predicting China’s recovery from the virus since he began researching the infection rates back in January.
Levitt, who won the 2013 prize for developing complex chemical models of calculation, says that as long as countries continue to practice safe self-isolation measures, the numbers show that they are already beginning to experience slow signs of improvement.
“What we need is to control the panic,” he told the news outlet. “We’re going to be fine.”
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Post by Mini Mia on Mar 26, 2020 4:31:49 GMT -6
Lesa posted this on Runboard:
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Post by Phalon on Mar 26, 2020 7:33:46 GMT -6
I had wondered about that; I think you once mentioned that your church's congregation is older, and some people in that generation aren't online. It's a shame they're missing out on being connected. I'm not a spiritual person in that way, but know that a lot of people find solace in church especially during difficult times, and especially if they're isolated or feel disconnected.
I wonder if the members of your church who are online can call members who aren't online during the Facebook Live service. Have the service airing on a laptop with the volume turned up, and put the phone on speaker so they can at least hear your preacher give the service. (There's probably a more streamlined way to do that from one device, but I'm not that technically savvy.)
Xena Sis has been busy sewing masks - her skills as a seamstress spread by word of mouth, and two different hospital systems in SW Michigan actually called her asking if she would sew. She's got storage bins and bins of fabric - all 100% cotton, which is what they request. One of the hospitals requested the masks have fabric ties instead of elastic, because the elastic is rubbing medical workers' skin raw.
The other day, I watched a couple walk by the house with their two young children, off school because of the closures, and probably by now bored because they're stuck home and missing their friends. It gave me an idea. I went through the plastic tubs in the basement, and gathered up enough stuff to fill one big tub of the girls' old books, DVDs, board games, and arts and craft stuff, and set it next to the sidewalk with a free-for-the-taking sign. Unfortunately, all the stuff is geared for the preteen crowd - all the kids in the neighborhood are in the 7-years and under age group, and the girls' kid stuff for that age-group is long gone. I'll keep setting it out though, weather permitting (it's supposed to rain the next few days).
Hubs and I took a walk around the neighborhood yesterday, and sidewalk chalk inspirational messages and artwork were prevalent. Some were written by kids, but some were very elaborate pieces of art, perhaps done by adults home from work, and as bored as the kids. We stepped around each one, so it wouldn't get scuffed, leaving it intact for the next person that walked by to see.
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Post by Phalon on Mar 28, 2020 7:46:22 GMT -6
Without any surprise, the scammers are out in full force, trying to take advantage of people during this time. I've read about a number of scams before the federal stimulus package was approved yesterday, and already scammers have turned their attention to that.
Just a reminder to never provide any personal information such as social security numbers, and/or PayPal and bank account information to anyone posing as government officials via text, e-mail, or phone calls.
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