Monday, November 2, 2020

Stolen Time

Autumn. A color ride, a stop at the pumpkin farm for cider and donuts. It was a glorious day, the sky that brilliant blue you wish you saw every day. The sun was out and the clouds were puffy. It was a perfect day. Well, almost.

I should be there with two toddlers, taking photos of them with the scarecrow or admiring the pumpkins that were bigger than they were. Then we'd go pick out a pumpkin or two to take home. 

We'd have a donut and cider (I wonder if they like cider?) and they would run far faster than anyone else at that place could.

And yes, they'd definitely be impressed by the tractor!

I'm OK till times like that. Just don't think ahead, go from day to day. "Be like Lizzie"-- think from meal to nap to meal to playtime. Don't think about what you don't have right now, think about what you do. Good enough health, a paid up house, a wonderful life partner, a chatty cat with whom I watch the birds, Netflix and Acorn and more books than I could read in a year.


But in the back of my head I have a bit of anger. It is the anger of stolen time.

I think many of us feel much the same. We are delaying visits with people we love because travel and being with others brings a threat far worse than the disappointment in staying home. If one is 30 or 40 or maybe even 50, it's a big deal in a different way. It's inconvenient and working from home with toddlers, I'm told, is not easy. Nor, have I heard, is online school. We miss casual lunches with friends -- inside. We long for the theatre or movies or the big game. Instead, we take walks by ourselves -- or if we are lucky, with a friend who stays at least six feet away.

But there is next year. And the year after. And probably many more after that.


But when you are in your 60s and beyond, and/or if you have challenging medical "co-morbidities" (one of the scariest words to come out of this, along with "ventilator" and the phrase "dying alone") it's a different deal.


We are being robbed of time when there is less time on the end of the life continuum to make it up. Things are more likely to happen. A devastating fall or diagnosis. Financial issues. Life complications.

Many of us canceled travel this year. I'm supposed to be in England now with a side trip to Paris. On the last trip, I went through the month with ruptured tendons in my foot. It held me back. I was looking forward to not having to deal with that this time. Of course, I might not "hold out" for as long as I'd like, but I might. But with every passing year, who knows? A hip? A knee?  Cancer? We just don't know how many months or years we will be able to get on the floor and play with a toddler or travel the world. None of us do.

I can't even cross the border to visit Suzanne in Canada. She can't come here, either. That may be a good thing. My guest room looks like this. But if they'd open the border, I'd find the bed underneath that quilt in record time.

I don't mean to rant or whine. Well, maybe a little. But I understand all too well that there are those of us who are in far worse straits that I am. I'll miss Thanksgiving and probably Christmas this year. But for many, their holidays will be missing someone who will never come back to the table. Sometimes, and for many, they will be missing two or more people, integral family members, well loved and lost forever except in memory.


I had my annual physical on Friday which went pretty well. I got my flu vaccine and also my pneumonia vaccine booster. No guarantees, of course, but all things considered, a good thing to have. Later that night, the chills started and then throughout the next day, a fever. Normally, I'd just think it was a bug or a reaction to the shots (which is not uncommon) but this time it took two calls to my doc to talk me off the ledge. It wasn't the feeling bad from the lack of sleep that night before. It was the worry of it all, the projecting. The fear that time stolen already was closer to being gone forever.


This week, those of us in the United States who haven't yet turned in their ballot for the elections, will do so. But for four years I have lived, as many have, in a state of anxiety as I've seen our country's reputation become damaged among the world community.

I've seen what Rick calls the "United States of aMErica" at its very worst, with people putting their own selfish wants and needs above the collective good, urged on by one who has done everything in his power to dismantle processes that protect the people, the environment and the country's integrity itself. It's not just the "rich getting richer," it's the poor and middle class falling desperately behind as valued services are reduced. 

The rhetoric is vile and dangerous has an impact as Michigan's governor can tell you. Our international reputation is in tatters as we cozy up to dictators and disregard our longtime allies.

Those of us with health insurance through work or retirement, and/or medicare (and please don't put down socialism if you receive medicare) should not forget that millions of people lack health insurance, meaning attention to serious issues is delayed simply because one can't afford it. Unlike countries that have national health insurance or a "public option," far too many are slapped with devastating bills, leaving them in financial ruin. 

And don't forget the pandemic. Just about everyone I know is stocking freezers and cupboards with sanitizer, disinfecting cleaners and food. 

My best friend from grad school, Tom, now lives in New York but is spending a few days in the metro Detroit area as a poll watcher through the election and if needed after as a legal advisor. He came up for the afternoon and we had (till this photo!) a distanced meet up, talking old times and new. He said that already he has seen attempted voter intimidation and bad mask behavior by those coming to vote.

I choose to vote this year for kindness. For less anxiety. For science and the environment, for health care and for humanity. For respect. For people beyond those in my orbit. My taxes won't go up. Yours probably won't either. But even if they did, aren't some things worth it? I believe they are.

All votes matter. This year they matter more.

61 comments:

Lilbitbrit said...

Being in the same boat so to speak, I understand where you are. I too missed a trip to England this year and maybe it won't even happen next year, well maybe late in the year at least, I hope. I know as you said that i'm in a better position than many, but age and time are against us. Yes I am sad about lost time, lost shared experiences with family and friends. The colours and photos were gorgeous. Take care, Christine

Sami said...

Beautiful post Jeanie. I do feel for all whose health is compromised and fear getting the virus. It's sad you can't see your grandkids and have them experience the joys of Autumn.

There is so much that I miss, but I consider myself very lucky to be living in a country where we weren't really massively affected by Covid and I live an almost normal life. In the State of Western Australia we only had 9 deaths right in the beginning of the pandemic, and since Sunday there has been zero community transmission in the whole of Australia.
Our WA borders will open to the other States in two weeks time and that is a bit worrying since we've been community transmission free for 7 months with our borders totally closed.
Best of luck with the election, hope America becomes once again the country it should be, fairer to all.
Keep safe :)

Susie said...

Jeanie, I feel cheated too. We did our best to fight Ted's cancer and the transplant took and we survived two years. Just when we think we could go see family and Ted not get a cold that would have possibly been life and death...the Virus erupts. Then we stayed in again, cleaned wiped wore masks..counts went down. The U.S. thinking things were good again, then opening up too fast, believing the Virus was not real or deadly ..people became careless again...so now children do not know what life is normal, or if it can ever be again. Oh hell yes, I feel cheated ...for the world's children too. Blessings, please stay safe. xoxo, Susie

Karen said...

Bless you, and Rick, Jeannie. I wish you folks had been able to make your trip over here to the quiet side.
My spare bedroom is as chaotic as yours, I'm afraid. The bed is unmade, piled with :stuff: The curtains are off the windows. The sewing machine is set up. I think that will be added to my project list for this week.
Take care. You folks are definitely in my thoughts this week.

Carola Bartz said...

Jeanie, I am with you on all of this. Like you I feel an anger that I haven't felt before. When I look at the country we immigrated to almost 20 years ago it's hard to recognize the country it has become today. Never before had I felt anxiety before an election, but this year is certainly different. Like you I have voted for kindness and decency.

Valerie-Jael said...

Yes, life is not easy, and we are all missing out a lot. For months I have been alone 24/7, so I know how it is. Still, I'm thankful that I've stayed healthy through it all and hopeful that things will get better. Hugs, Valerie

eileeninmd said...

Hello Jeanie,

Great post and I agree with you 100%. I will listen to a scientist and doctor when it comes to my health and life, more than I would listen to our president. I am anxious about the election. We have all had time taken away from us, time with our families, friends and ourselves doing what we like to do. I miss eating out in a restaurant and traveling. My vote is for kindness, less hate and more love and respect for each other. Thank for sharing your words. Take care and stay safe! Enjoy your day, wishing you a happy new week!

Martha said...

I agree with you 100% on everything you posted about. I hope getting it out a bit here brings you peace. I've had some less than positive posts over the past months and I always feel better after sharing how I'm feeling. Of course I voted and made sure everyone in my family did too. Now all we can do is hope and pray Biden gets in so we can once again sleep peacefully at night. Hugs to you my friend.

bobbie said...

We are all feeling the frustration ~ you wrote about it beautifully!
Hugs ~
PS I voted exactly one month ago today ~

Mae Travels said...

Everything you say is perfect for the moment. I fear that we will awaken Wednesday to a new nightmare, another disaster for democracy. The suspense is worse than the isolation of the last months!

be safe, and I hope for the same things you do... mae at maefood.blogspot.com

Linda Sue said...

Voted the day the ballot came! Blue! Your territory is beautiful, nature is a comfort, beautiful blue sky! I had a feeling last thanksgiving and Christmas that it might be the last...who knew it could get so crazy, Anyway, i went all out for both holidays, everyone here, big family friends party and loads of prep. So glad i did all of that. I do not have little kids to yearn for like you do, so it is OK for us up here. Winter will be challenging! Fingers crossed for a dump the rump day!

R's Rue said...

Saying the Serenity Prayer. God knows your heart.

Rustic Pumpkin said...

Jeanie, I feel angry and cheated to. This was supposed to be my year for getting my life back on track after over a decade of being a care giver. Oh, the plans I had in place for me. All the while, I've wallowed, and now I have developed an innate ability to find things to make me feel worse, and guilty, and full of remorse, maybe even fear. Thank you for sharing your spare room, I don't feel quite as bad about mine now!

As one artist to another, do you think our skies seem bluer for the juxtaposition of Autumn colour, or can we believe they really are bluer than they used to be?

Waving~~~Deb in Wales

eileeninmd said...

PS, your photos are beautiful. Love the Autumn colors!
I hope you are having a happy day!

ashok said...

Lovely colors...you have captured the season with some beautiful clicks!

Sandi said...

Stolen time. That is a good way to say it. I feel that way too. My neice and her family are moving soon a few states away. We have missed time with them this year and now they are moving. But we have many things to be thankful for too. Our kids are teenagers, so they are home with us. I have learned to make bread. We have enough food. Everyone is healthy. We had one person in our extended family test positive. He was sick for a few days but bounced right back. He is over it now and the doctor cleared him to go back to work. No one else in his household caught it. It's a thankful time and a missing time, both.

Divers and Sundry said...

You speak my heart, every word.

Marilyn Miller said...

You said it all so well. I do panic at it all and it saddens me at the lost time too. I have a doctor appointment this week that I could cancel, but I just need reassurance from me doctor that I am OK. Oh my breath is being held, can it truly be good results? Will there be more violence in the streets? This all reminds me of news stories I have seen in other countries, but never imagined here. I think if this nightmare is over this week I will just sit down and have a good cry. By the way, your autumn looks just lovely!

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

Well said, Jeanie. Like you, I plan to stay alive long enough for my vote to count, even though I'm not in a swing state, but in a red state. I live for the day Kansas turns at least purple, but if Pompeo is still grabbing the President's ear, my chances of that are slim to none. I say, because I have SO many friends who will vote for the king of misogyny, I may not be able to change your minds, but hopefully, I can outvote you.

Thanks for the recommendations. I wrote both. Lifeandlinda.com is her website. I hope I get an answer back, because I'm at my wits end.

Susie said...

Hi Jeanie, It's me again. I forgot to say I loved the pictures. I am praying things will be better after the Virus had been brought under control and you will get to see England again. Bless you, xoxo, Susie

Susan Kane said...

My daughter 45 yr. old badly hurt her ankle and tendons a few months ago. It has been a journey for her as she healed.

My 2nd bedroom looks worse.

My name is Erika. said...

This post resonates Jeanie. I think this time change hasn't helped too much, the dark evenings, this pandemic getting worse and an election. I'm afraid and hopeful at the same time. The rich and big businesses have had their 4 years. Time for the rest of us. Thanks for sharing this. And I am glad your guest room actually looks worse than my spare room. I thought mine was the worst on the planet. Ha-ha-ha! Hugs-Erika

Thelma said...

Hi Jeannie, Yes, this virus has been a burden on all of us. I missed out of travelling this year. My son lives across Canada. I haven't seen him and his family in 2 yrs.
We'll be watching your Country's election tomorrow. Good luck with your vote.
Take care and stay safe. xo

The Joy of Home with Martha Ellen said...

Jeanie, you have expressed the same feelings I have had for a long time. I've really been trying to be more calm as this situation is affecting me quite poorly. Stress has been way too much. I'm praying our election will heal our land and especially our hearts. Take care, my friend.

Pam said...

Yes, a lot of time has been stolen from us.....not saying any more, you said it perfectly.

Red Rose Alley said...

Jeanie, Autumn is still showing its beautiful face in your area. Your photos are always so charming, I appreciate them so. That was nice that you got to see your best friend from grad school and catch up with him. I'm so sorry you are having a difficult time with so many things, Jeanie. The elections coming up are worrisome to many. And Yes, a lot of financial issues for many as well. I think everyone is facing some sort of concern right now. I haven't seen anyone except my immediate family members, and we do miss going out and about and just stopping at a store to shop or going to a coffee shop to have a cup of coffee and a treat with a friend. I was just talking with my sister about this the other day. I'm filled with gratitude that my family hasn't got this terrible virus.

I absolutely LOVE that photo with the pumpkin on the fence. Thank you for your heartfelt post sharing your thoughts and feelings, Jeanie. Thinking of you tonight, and sending love your way from your blog friend, Sheri. : )

Misadventures of Widowhood said...

I want to feel proud of our America again and that won't happen if Trump is re-elected. I want the person who holds the highest office in our land to model kindness, not divisiveness. Finger crossed tomorrow we can start turning things around again.

Hena Tayeb said...

I know exactly what you mean. This summer we were supposed to be visiting family we hadn't seen in over 4 years. Initially I felt guilty to be upset about a missed vacation.. so many people are struggling to put food on the table. But we all have the right to be upset about whatever it is that me are missing.. I keep thinking I only have my eldest in the house for another 7 years and I know it seems like a lot.. but not really. All the missed memories, travelling adventures.
We voted early.. got a postcard in the mail confirming our votes were received. Now all we can do is hope, pray and wait.

Iris Flavia said...

A very strong post, Jeanie. I am thankful we all have to have health insurance here.
Yet, sadly also here in Germany there is bad planning.
Hospital beds are kept for covid-patients, but there are thankfully few. Yet other patients get delayed and suffer. Doctors are sent to short-time.
I have an 80-year-old tennant who since months waits for an operation and she´s in constant pain. Three times they sent her home.
We get wrong numbers through the German institute and tests are said to be unsafe, partially "meaningless".
Masks now in the city are mandatory, as consequence few people go, all order online, also the young ones. Shops and restaurants close down, economy goes down the drain. Cinemas have excellent safety-concepts, yet... closed.
And you are right, especially time with young children gets stolen. Their childhood gets stolen.
Who ever thought this crazy might happen? I so hope at least your people vote a certain orange out today.

David M. Gascoigne, said...

As you so often do, Jeanie, you have furnished a well-written, well-reasoned discourse, encapsulating the the feelings of most of us as it relates to one issue or another, and the worries or concerns we have going forward. Will we ever be able to travel again as we used to? I doubt it. But, I have spent my whole life travelling the world, experiencing wonderful environments, flora and fauna, culture, food, languages, so who am I to complain? As for socialism, it has become a boogey word for some who have not the slightest idea what it means. I just had surgery on my left eye and the right eye will be done two weeks from today. A friend of ours is having a hip replacement today. And it costs us nothing. We don't have to fear crushing bills that will take our house from us and leave us in poverty. I am very happy to live in a society which believes that medical care is a fundamental right for every citizen. Stay well, stay cheerful, drink wine, hug Rick, drink wine, hug Rick - and repeat often. Toujours ton ami, David

Joanne Huffman said...

Well written. It's going to be a rough wait for election results.

La Table De Nana said...

Although we have a good medical system inCanada..so many operations are delayed because of Covid.I do feel bad for me and what I am missing family wise..But then I think of people I know..with important health issues during this time..I have my own..bt it's nothing anyone can seem to fix..so waiting is natural for me..for others..they may have counted days and idiots are partying.At last..if they are caught they are fined.

How selfish can anyone be.
Mental health issues are through the roof.
I am grateful all my grandchildren and family members are handling this like stars.But past histories..genetic make up..not easy for everyone.
And all the lonely people..where do they all belong:(:(:(

Your elections.. a constant source of news here too..soon it will be all over.
I am optimistic your dreams will come true.

I will have my tree up soon:)

Have to bring twinkle lights into my life at night..snow covered rooftops this AM.

Sandra at Maison De Jardin said...

Jeanie, I agree with your every word. I pray today will be peaceful and that we will wake up tomorrow with the hope of a new beginning with a new leader. I just turned 70 and in my life, I have never seen such scary times. I was even in Mississippi during the summer of 1964. It was scary but in a different way.

May we all, once again, live in peace and enjoy the things which are the right of every human. Stay well, my friend - know I support your thoughts which you have written so well.

Mary Rose's said...

YES a hundred times to the feeling that our remaining time on earth is being stolen. By a powerful virus, and by individuals who will not do what's needed to minimize its contagion.

Like you I long to travel. I wonder if (in part)I engineered this move to Virginia just to legitimize getting out of town. The two men who did the first leg of the move (SC to VA storage)were in such good spirits on moving day because, they said, they hadn't been anywhere for months and it felt so good to be on the road.

Three more weeks in suspended life for me, then (gods willing) the house will be mine and I can settle in for a long winter. I'm planning gardens on the backs of receipts, and trying to stay in the Now even as I long to get at what's Next.

Go easy, dear Jeanie. All this is just really hard. But it's not forever. Sweeter times ahead.
XOXO

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said...

Your photos show such a fabulous day with blue skies and all that lush fall color. I know how hard it is to give up on travel now but it is the safe thing to do - travel next year fingers crossed! I had to smile when I saw your feet x-rays (not that I smile at your injury, not at all). It reminded me of those xray machines in shoe stores in the 1950's. I would go and stand there everytime wigging my toes and watching my x rayed feet. I don't know how I've never gotten cancer of the toes.

Lisa from Lisa's Yarns said...

I am younger than you, but the loss of time is really tough. I feel so pessimistic about things improving, too. Our case counts are skyrocketing and we haven’t even hit the holidays yet. And I’m on the brink of bringing a baby into the world - which is exciting but also makes me anxious due to Covid and such. Our taxes will go up if Biden wins and I am more than ok with that. It’s the price we pay to work in a well-compensated, albeit volatile industry. We will be alone with our immediate family for the holidays until there is a vaccine. I feel bad for my MIL. She is all alone as a widow so the months of isolation in the winter will be hard on her. We will FaceTime a ton but that is not the same. Paul is at a stage she just loves so it’s too bad he won’t be able to see her this winter. But we have to protect her health.

I just hope and pray the good guy wins tonight. And Trump loses so badly that the Republican Party can return to a respectable party. It’s a party of bullies and lunatics right now.

Bella Rum said...

Wonderful post, Jeanie. I miss my grands. I feel like I'm losing so much time with them at important ages. And will we have enough time to ever make up for what we've lost.

I'm glad we voted early. I hope my state continues to offer early voting in the future. Our poor country. It hurts everywhere. It's sad. So sad. Let's hope for a clean win and no violence.

Elli Fant said...

Jeanne, I often read your blog but this time I must comment it.Here in Germany the USA and your president is an important topic in our newspapers and on TV. Sometimes more than Covid 19, which is managed by our government really very well. It is better to be a bit more careful and to close restaurants pubs,
theatres and so on than having the risk to have a lot of people with Covid 19.
And it is not true, that all people have to wait for other operations. I was operated 4 times since Covid and my daughter had a very important operation in April, too. I know a lot of other people who had operations.
But I think, times are hard for a lot of people in Germany and Europe.
We all hope that it is found a medicine which helps that we can live a normal live again.
I cross my fingers,that Biden will win and that a lot of Americans can identify with their president again.You describe the situation in your country very well and I absolutely feel like you.
So I wish you and all democratic thinking Americans Biden as president, peace and a better life for everybody, who suffered under your government.
And I wish you that your life will become normal again with your family, friends,journeys and all you wish for the future.




Victoria Zigler said...

*Hugs*

Elli Fant said...

Jeanne, I often read your blog but this time I must comment it.Here in Germany the USA and your president is an important topic in our newspapers and on TV. Sometimes more than Covid 19, which is managed by our government really very well. It is better to be a bit more careful and to close restaurants pubs,
theatres and so on than having the risk to have a lot of people with Covid 19.
And it is not true, that all people have to wait for other operations. I was operated 4 times since Covid and my daughter had a very important operation in April, too. I know a lot of other people who had operations.
But I think, times are hard for a lot of people in Germany and Europe.
We all hope that it is found a medicine which helps that we can live a normal live again.
I cross my fingers,that Biden will win and that a lot of Americans can identify with their president again.You describe the situation in your country very well and I absolutely feel like you.
So I wish you and all democratic thinking Americans Biden as president, peace and a better life for everybody, who suffered under your government.
And I wish you that your life will become normal again with your family, friends,journeys and all you wish for the future.





Judy said...

My dear Jeanie: I so love the way you write. So eloquently and full of wisdom. This all seems so simple. Do the right thing. It is as easy as that. Four years ago, I guess, we could give those a pass because they didn't "know" Trump. After four years of his horrible being surely they know now! I have written something similar this week, although you say it so much better than I do. I have had another post written for two weeks now, just holding off until the time is right. God help us if that time doesn't come..Stay well..xxoJudy

DUTA said...

Beautifully written post!
I pray to God for guidance and help.
We've got here also a lot of trouble. It appears protests, slogans, elections - are of no help. Nations are disintegrating,and there isn't much one can do about it. Climate change and Covid-19 are part of that.

Susan said...

Best. Post. Ever. Bless you for writing this.

Pat @ Mille Fiori Favoriti said...

Hi Jeanie
I agree 100% about stolen time. I am fortunate to live close to my grandchildren, and we have been able to do a thing or two with them out of necessity, but almost all the fun times have been sacrificed because of coronavirus fears. We wear masks all the time when among others, and we wear N95 masks when we feel a situation may be especially risky. I am sad and angry that wearing a mask and other public health measures became political issues under this administration. It has delayed our country's recovery. I can only hope that better days are ahead, where we aren't red states or blue states but the United States working together for the greater good for all.

William Kendall said...

Very well said, Jeanie.

Lynne said...

Beautiful, well sad post Jeanie . . .
Thank you for your kindness, regard, honesty and more.

Sally Wessely said...

You put to words so much of what I am feeling. Stolen time and thoughts of will I be up to doing all I hoped to do this year if we are able to be socially active and able to travel seem to loom large. I’m discouraged as we watch the results of the election, but I’m hanging on to hope. Take care, dear friend.

The French Hutch said...

Oh Jeanie, I know all those feelings! Time lost, I think about that a lot. We are trying to stay busy and with caution keep our scheduled check ups and dental. Then count the days and hope we pass the test. We cancelled a lot of travel and now with the way things are not sure if I'll ever want to travel. Like you we've had the most beautiful autumn, blue skies and glorious color. It has turned cool here now, right on time. Happy November sweet friend, take care.

Jenny Woolf said...

This post says just what I am thinking and feeling, but better. Stolen time sums it up, when you are older. IAnd that idea adds to the general hmmmmmm feeling we have about aging, doesn’t it? But I like how you keep it all in perspective in this post, There is so much to appreciated.
And IAlso, I am encouraged that we are now hearing that a vaccine might not be far off.

R's Rue said...

❤️

Pam Richardson said...

Jeanie, we can never recall time lost, whether we waste it or a pandemic takes it. I pray that I won’t waste the time given me and that there will be a vaccine for the virus.

Deb Nance at Readerbuzz said...

Agree, agree, agree.

But many people disagree. Many people I love. Many people who share my town.

I feel frustrated as I see signs for people who do not speak for justice and science and our world pop up in yards all around me like mushrooms after a rain. I feel like we have got to do a better job talking to each other about what is important.

No matter the outcome (but please, please, let the outcome be for America's best self) I will try to see what I can do in the time I have left in this place.

Sandra Cox said...

I love the We Believe Signs. There were some up in our neighborhood. (Of course, it doesn't look like NC is breaking our way.) I trust we win this race and can start turning things around, like COVID, taking care of our environment and treating people with decency and respect.
Sorry to hear you weren't feeling well.
Your photos are just beautiful.

Bohemian said...

The vibrancy of those Pumpkins just took my Breath away! I do agree that those of us running out of Time feel robbed of whatever Time we had left. However, my Heart just Aches for the Young, their entire World Globally has been altered in ways that may never return to any kind of Normal that I enjoyed for over Six Decades, so they have been robbed of so much more... a Lifetime MORE! They, with the resilience of Youth, are handling it with aplomb and retaining their Joy... which is Inspirational to me. Raising the Generation of Grandchildren has exposed me to more of that than I suppose I might have Witnessed had my Parenting been done with our own Children and their Generation. It has also given me reason to remain Vertical and finish the Job, with tenacity and even during a Pandemic and with the dreaded comorbidity factors.

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

I've got to say, your state sure knows how to throw an after party (grin).

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

A lovely post - and Amen, sister. I continue to hope for the best...

Lowcarb team member said...

Stolen time is a good way to describe these present times.

Those pumpkins in your photograph are an amazing colour, and it's always good to see blue skies.

Take care, stay safe and well.

All the best Jan

Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble Christmas said...

Jeanie,
Wonderful post.....I pray that things will be better next year but probably not until the Summer as we need to get through the Winter and Flu Season....I am enjoying my first year of retirement by trying to get caught up on all that I want to do but that may actually take a few more years!!! LOL!!
Thanks so much for always stopping by!!
Stay safe, healthy and most of all, happy!!
Hugs,
Deb

Lynne said...

Correction on my comment above.
Well said . .. (not well sad . . .)

Sue (this n that) said...

Hello Jeannie, you don't know me but I popped over from Jennie Wolf's blog because she mentioned this post by you.
Have to say you touched my heart with your thoughts on "stolen time".
Go well and thanks so kindly. Sue, Australia

Danielle L Zecher said...

It is so frustrating to think about all of the things we're missing. I haven't seen my parents in almost a year (January) or my sister (Christmas). My sister hasn't seen my parents in over a year (October). She was going to see them at the beginning of the month. She can get a rapid test at work, and with a negative test, was planning to make the drive without stopping anywhere. But, thanks to a few selfish coworkers, they've had a cluster and lots of exposure, so she didn't feel safe seeing our parents, even with a negative (for now) test.

I often think about my chemo buddy, and everything she's missing, and may not get. She's stage IV.

I am hopeful for January and beyond, though.

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