I started the last seven days still in vacation mode, but ended yesterday fully in back to work mode! Nothing slowed down while I was out, and now this week others are on vacation. I had our staff meeting this morning and the beginning of thinking through returning to the building was a major topic of conversation. My work in the past and that of many coworkers had many opportunities where we were presenters or speakers at other venues. We're starting to get these requests for 6-9 months from now. Wile we may really this time be turning a corner, we obviously have no control over what other organizations ight be doing. We basically heard today, if we do not yet feel safe, we are OK turning it down or offering to come into the meeting or conference virtually. It's nice to know that our employer has out back, while still letting us exercise a bit of personal discretion when and if we do feel in person attendance (after July 1) is a good fit. Here are other things in my head for the week.
What's top of mind: The fact that my daughters are now in the pipeline for vaccines' is top of mind, as well as other younger people. I appreciate that people were not wigged out-as I have read some comments other places that people are still struggling to find vaccines for elders or people with health issues. I would be frustrated too. I've helped a couple others track down vaccines and there are some great resources like vaccinespotter.org helping to track when new supplies and appointments are posted. I apologize that I don't remember who, but one of my lovely readers reminded me of CVS and the time they upload their slots and it worked like a charm to get up early and sit in the virtual waiting room to get my older daughter scheduled.
Where I've been: I shared that we went to the Zoo and conservatory. Also , last Thursday to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and I tried my hand at a panoramic photo of my favorite gallery room, the Impressionists form the 1800's. I am such a nerd, but can't believe they have an original Van Gogh, Gaugin, and others in our humble museum. We went to outdoor Easter Service and I'm happy to learn starting May 9th there will be regular outdoor times again. Since then, just a trip for a few grocery necessities.
Where I'm going: I'm going along with my daughter tomorrow when she gets her vaccine and then celebrating with a Trader Joe's quick shop, and maybe lunch or coffee outdoors before TJ's. We live it up big!
What I'm watching: I started a few shows when my daughter was home, but haven't really been engaged since she left. I liked episode one of the Irregulars on Netflix, but fell asleep, twice, trying to watch episode two. That might have been due to the bad sleep form several nights of storms and too much caffeine later in the day.
What I'm reading: My book club is tonight to discuss, The Taster. I know we picked a May book, but will have to look up what it is. I'm not sure what this group of women will think about this book. It was a bit of mystery, romance, and historical fact and fiction.
What I'm listening to: Nothing really, but today since I have a head down work day with no required meetings, I plan to stream BBC World Service.
What I'm eating: Easter dinner was delicious-good thing as we have ham and yet more ham. Well, I froze most of that. I'll likely not make bean soup for a while, so extra wrapped the ham bone, loaded with meat, so some cold fall day, that will be a nice treat. I'll use the ham throughout sprig and summer though in salads. Other meals were simple this week-and off the menu plan a bit, but no take out.  |
| No bake cheese cake. |
Who I'm paying attention to: I'm reading so I know what strange thinking might be out there, but not paying attention to the people who pop up on social media, blogs, or other medium with conspiracy theory nonsense. I read comments by someone going on forever about the election and cheating on some bloggers world order post, and was worried there would once again be a run on tin foil. Hell, when even the attorneys defense for the Kraken controller Sydney Powell, in a libel suit, is that no reasonable person should believe what she said, you know it was all political theater and lobbying for favor. Frankly though, I'm disgusted with most politicians, especially if I once trusted or voted for them, that switch the narrative back and forth, depending on how the wind blows. Just be honest-that's all we'd like.
What I'm planning: I'll end this post on the joys of feeling like I can plan things. More immediate though, I'm planning to see another house with my daughter on Sunday morning. I also plan to look at bringing in some more green around the front of the house. The hostas that did so well replanted last spring are not showing any signs of popping up. Is it too early and should I not give up hope? I bought a $3.99 hyacinth at Aldi on Saturday after my shot, and it is bursting. I think I will replant outside in a planter, but also stop at the garden center and see what else I can find. I'm not worrying about the back yard as if we pull down the deck and pour a patio slab, we'll mess it all up anyway. We need to call this week and get bids and get it scheduled. Same with the bathroom. With me working from home t least until July, now would be the time for both jobs.
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| Bargain hyacinth-was only buds on Saturday. |
I'm so excited to be thinking that planning activities, even if slowly, is now reality and not just hopeful thinking. I've decided I'm going to focus on the positives until we reach true safety levels, and have no issue continuing to mask up, and socially distance, while others might be more ready to go quicker. I realize there might be a surge of positive cases with spring breaks over, but I'm hopeful people will stay away from vulnerable people, and hospitalizations do not surge. If you'd like to join me, drop your World of W's in the comments.
I think your employer is very good more or less leaving it up to you if you want to be physically back in the office/at speaking events. I think it's something that needs to be done slowly and within your comfort zone!
ReplyDeleteShe even went so far to say if we fo accept sometbing in person, but upon getting there, just not right, we could give apologies and leave. Obviously if the setting wasn't what was promised would be good rationale.
DeleteI left a question for your last comment on my blog.
ReplyDeleteMy Hostas are not popping up yet. Give them time. If they lived last year, they will pop up this year. Well, I take that back. Chipmunks or ground squirrels killed all mine. They love to eat them.
Good, I'll be patient.
DeleteJust to continue with vaccine availability etc, PA has really turned the corner. We were nearly last in the country and are up to 12th or so for vaccinations. In fact, in the county next me there’s a walk-in, no appointment needed clinic today! Also by the end of the month all people 16 and up are eligible. I’m feeling much better from my jab on Wednesday. The rest of April is rather dull but some upcoming events for us-“Senior Celebration” which is supposed to be our Prom substitute. It sounds....stupid and now my kid doesn’t even want to go. (She is a junior but dating a senior). The Grad parade that was given for seniors last year looks like it will become a yearly tradition, Graduation and the boyfriends grad party all in a span of a few days. Plus Mother’s Day, our anniversary, several birthdays and May looks like a spendy month. even though we won’t be going crazy it still will add up. I would hold out hope on your hostas, I think it’s a bit early for them yet. We were going to redo our back porch but the price of lumber is sky high right now. The guy at Home Depot even told us to wait til next year lol. Good luck to your daughter and the house hunt. It’s a tricky market right now. We’d love to sell but our options are really limited until my daughter graduates. Have a great weekend! JoAnn
ReplyDeleteWe're fo a poured cement patio, but will need new steps made. We'll probably stay another 5-10 years perhaps, but I'm not dealing with stairs for bathrooms om my 70's!
DeleteIt's too early for the hostas to be peeking out. I think I must be south of you, and none of mine have broken ground yet. And I have lots! The nearest art museum to me is the MN Marine Art Museum in Winona. It has some wonderful art, including several impressionists. Lovely drive down the river road for me. It's been years since I've visited the Minneapolis art museum, I recall tho how wonderful it was. Celie
ReplyDeleteA friend just went to the Winona museum on a little get away. It's on my list.
DeleteIt's very nice that your employer is leaving the decision to each individual. Everyone should have that kind of option and not forced back when it still may not be safe. I'm so glad your kids are all on the way to being vaccinated too, I was able to get appointments this morning for all of mine as well. I'm so glad you've been able to get out and about a bit more too now. Have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteGood for you on vaccine. I'll feel better when son is on his way too.
DeleteI've not shopped at Traders Joes before, but hear they are building one in Chattanooga. I cannot wait to shop there.
ReplyDeleteI love hyacinths. They smell so good. Lucky you on the bargain.
This plant is so pretty. TJs is fun. We have a few fave!
DeleteMy hosta is just starting to peak through ... in northwest Ohio. Mole got the rest of them.
ReplyDeleteI worry about squirrels, but don't see sogns of bother.
DeleteGlad that your employer is giving the employees discretion as to when they feel comfortable going back to the office. That's great!
ReplyDeleteYay on the vaccines! My college kid was able to get his first shot at college this week too since there have been lots more vaccines available. I'm feeling more hopeful, even with all the variants. Maybe he will be able to have a college graduation after all in a few weeks, instead of just a virtual one.
The zoo and conservatory sounds fun! I know it did you good to get out and spend time with your daughter.
We went to a safari drive thru zoo for my daughter's birthday this week which was nice. I think my favorite part though was feeding the budgies in the aviary. I had never been in an aviary before, and it was sort of magical having the birds land on my finger.
The irregulars is interesting, but I think I slept through the second episode too.:) Finally got to see Holmes, and the series is completely different from how I imagined Holmes and Watson.
My hostas haven't come up yet either, but I think it is early yet. Love the smell of hyacinths.
Hope you have a great weekend.
I'll give the Irregulars another chance. It was me being so tired.
DeleteI usually buy myself a hyacinth at Easter(or I can nag Hubs to)but the choices were dismal this year. Maybe I'll buy a bare bulb this Fall and pot it myself indoors over the Winter if I can find a window with good light in the house. Or if I am lazy I'll just buy a plant next Spring....it's a toss up. lolz
ReplyDeleteI've never had a hyacinth so pleased with it.
DeleteDon't worry those hostas are still asleep and will start to send out shoots by the middle of May.
ReplyDeleteMy mind is eased. I was worried they all died over winter.
DeleteMy hostas are through by a couple of inches.I love hyacinths, and always plant them outside after they've gone over. I have a lot at the allotment but think I'll move them home now that the garden is sorted. Good news on the vaccinations, and an understanding employer.
ReplyDeleteI was hoping the hyacinth could be replanted. I'm exciting to maybe find some hydrangea today, but honestly we still could get snow and frost.
DeleteHello Sam, I am not surprised that Minneapolis has a great art collection. Think of the fortunes founded there--Washburn, Pillsbury, and so many others. These people either had these paintings in their giant houses or endowed the museum with funds. I am quickly adding to my Minneapolis/St. Paul resources list!
ReplyDelete--Jim