Man from U.N.C.L.E. Section VII

Here we are in the days before Memorial Day Weekend, and the world is beginning to open up just a little.  I saw on the news yesterday that Italy is attempting to get back to some semblance of normal, and people were shown being nearly giddy at the sense of freedom they were experiencing for the first time in two months.  

I'm curious how things are going elsewhere, if anyone is venturing out as the stores and restaurants begin to open for business.  Hopefully the small businesses that have been forced into closing can still survive.  I have a good friend who has been hanging onto a thread during this, and was rewarded by a kindness from her landlord to be given free rent for as long as it takes.  The benefit of owning a building allows for this sort of graciousness, and one hopes that it is more common than we know.

Personally, my own employer, Pier 1 Imports, was already in Chapter 11 bankruptcy when this started, and as of a few days ago had announced stores won't be re-opening until at least June 1.  They need to be able to open at least 50% of the stores before considering a definite date.  So, more time to figure out my next step to develop my own brand.  I see Etsy in my future.

Tell us then, what's the status in your area?  

It's a day with sunshine here, that same gentle breeze from yesterday that didn't turn into a wicked storm.  I'm thankful for that.

For some of us it's a sacred day, Good Friday. It's a day of hope, something that might help to chase away thoughts of doom, comfort others who have had to deal with fear and grief during this season of unusual events.

For the Bunny Crowd, I hope you are able to share some of the delights of an Easter holiday.  Perhaps you're in a place where family isn't completely cut off, I hope so.  For others, maybe at least get a good dose of chocolate eggs or jelly beans.  There's so much to love about Easter, regardless of one's faith affiliation, or lack of it.

As always, please share your thoughts, your insights and status here with us.

I'm a little late getting to our Roll Call for the day.  I drive my cousin's wife to dialysis on Monday and Wednesday every week.  The center is in Bowling Green, and it gives me an opportunity to get to the grocery at least, and I shop for Betty as well.

Is anyone feeling more encouraged with anything?  I've read a few reports about decreasing numbers in NYC, and certainly the warmer days were predicted to help derail the virus itself.  I hope so, I remain optimistic about things turning around sooner than later.

Did I mention Marian's relative being tested positive?  The woman's daughter is a nurse and speculation was that she was exposed to the virus by her, which put everyone in quarantine.  Fran had pneumonia and wasn't looking good, but thankfully things did turn around and she's been given the all clear, no longer positive and by now back home.  Everyone is clear.  So, there are some good reports.

Speaking of Marian, like others she's pretty isolated.  I'm wondering if anyone would be interested in exchanging some old fashioned mail, just postcards or something simple to cheer everyone on.  Let me know if you like the idea, and we'll set up a mailing list via Messenger here on LJ.

Check out the prompts for the Short Affair, and the new Song Story prompts.  You can use the tags to get there, or just scroll through things.  And the Archives will show you all our activity for every day we've been here.

It's Saturday, much of the world is staying home and avoiding anything that might be potentially hazardous to our health.  Social distancing is now a real thing, with tape on the floors of groceries and any place where people are doing business and need to remain at that safe, prescribed distance apart.

Let's follow the rules and be safe. And let us hear from you, tell us what's happening in your world.

We're well into this thing, and as the numbers rise I feel confident that people grow increasingly uneasy.  Marian, aka mrua7, says 'Hi', thanks you all for the virtual support as she makes her way through an apartment full of boxes, trying to find a way to unpack without the advantage of being able to put trash and empty boxes outside her door.  The task is made more difficult by the lock down she is under in New Jersey.

As I look out my window this morning I see that my pastor, who lives across the street, has just returned from delivering food to the homes of students in the county, those who are normally given subsidies during the school year. Our church began a summer program two years ago, and now the school board has asked us to step in and resume the program during the school closings.  We've had a donation of $3000 to help in the effort that we share with several other congregations and the school system.  All hands on deck.

I hope you're well, safe inside of your homes, possibly able to get outdoors periodically and breathe some fresh air.  It isn't possible for everyone, and so I've found a lovely video for you to enjoy, flying over Scotland.

Please continue to check in here, or in a new post with anything you'd like to share here with everyone.  A video, a story you've found or written... something to offer comfort and encouragement.

If you've missed reading what others have posted in the other roll call posts, just click on the roll call tag or go HERE
Stay safe and be wise...