May 2020: As We Continue To Stay At Home I’m Getting Silly

/ Ally Bean

As a longtime blogger and a person who attempts to arrive pre-amused to life, I’ve come to realize that I’m at my blogging best when I ramble a bit about whatever is bouncing around in my mind then write about it here.

I tend to naturally process my life in a way that allows me to be entertained… inspired… often educated… sometimes baffled… by what I see going on around me and within me.  Once I’ve done that I babble about it.

No pre-planned editorial calendar for me.

That being said, here is a blog post written today, the 972 gazillionth day of staying at home.  I am, of course, not alone in my home because my Sweet Babboo, who will continue to work from home all this month, is in the next room.

[Pretty pink tulip to any commenter who knows that reference… without Googling it.]

I’ve got big plans for the day, NOT.

Oh sure I may crochet a little bit, I have a wacko project in mind.  I’m not good at crocheting, but I am good at dreaming up pointless projects for snorts and giggles.  More on that as it takes shape.  [Pun intended.]

Who knows, I may attempt to read a novel, something I’ve been unable to do since we all started to stay at home.  Apparently when I’m frazzled by a world gone topsy-turvy I’m unable to focus on reading a book.  This makes me sad, but self-awareness is good, so now I know.

Finally I’ll be fussing around with the annual flowers that I bought last week when I went inside a store, my one adventure in the world during the month of April.  Stay-at-home-ness, I gots it 99% of the time, but pretty posies for the month of May are a siren song to me.

Thus having shared with you how I’ll be fiddle-farting my day away, I’ll ask you:

WHAT’S NEW WITH YOU?

Tell me your plans for the day. Or the week. Or the month.

Tell me how you’re feeling about your life as we continue to struggle with COVID-19.

Tell me anything, anything at all. Entertain me. Amaze me. Inform me. 

Think of me as your agony aunt and ask me your question. 

I am still here at home getting a bit stir crazy silly. 

Please talk to me.

209 thoughts on “May 2020: As We Continue To Stay At Home I’m Getting Silly”

  1. I know about Sally and Charlie, but then I remembered something: my mother used to call me her ‘sweet babboo’ when I was a kid. I was born in 1946, and Sally was introduced to the strip in 1959, so there’s a bit of a mystery there. Why was my mother using a phrase that wasn’t in existence when I was a kid?

    The answer seems to be that the phrase pre-dates the comic strip. Lookie here:

    “The title babu, also spelled baboo, is used in the Indian subcontinent as a sign of respect towards men. In some cultures, the term ‘Babu’ is a term of endearment for a loved one as well. The honorific “ji” is sometimes added as a suffix to create the double honorific “babuji” which, in northern and eastern parts of India, is a term of respect for one’s father. “Babuji” can also be used as a term of respect for any respected elder or man.”

    A couple of articles suggested the phrase entered our lexicon through the military — people who served on the Indian subcontinent in WWII may have brought it back home.

    Well — having taken that little path, I believe I’ll head off to work!

    Liked by 1 person

    • shoreacres, I didn’t know how Babboo, or any alternative spelling of the term, made it into our national lexicon. I find it fascinating how language evolves over time and the ways in which we come to know it. It’s easy to believe that term came to the US through the military. Many new words do.

      Thanks for playing along with my post. I appreciate your comment. You have informed me. 🤓

      Liked by 2 people

  2. Funny how we want more time to read and then when we have it we can’t concentrate on any serious reading matter! It’s taken me a month to get through one novel. Audiobooks are a better bet.
    I had to look up Sweet Baboo Love it!
    I have a pile of old photographs that my brother wants me to scan and send to him. I thought I’d get to it today – but no – it’s already 2 pm and I haven’t started yet! I’ve been fiddling about with other odd things, like blogging, laundry and sanitising the groceries that my ‘sweet baboo’ brought home from the store! But at least now that we’re allowed to go walkies between 6 and 9 I am rising earlier than previously! We leave the house at 8 and return at 9 whereas before 1 May we were only getting out of bed after 9.
    Keep blogging your silliness. I love it.

    Liked by 2 people

    • puppy1952, I haven’t tried Audiobooks but I bet you’re right that one of those might hold my attention better. It’s ridiculous how difficult it has become for me [ME!] to read.

      Your walking schedule sounds like a good plan and one that I’m sure you’ll adapt to. I mean, it’s worth getting up earlier when you can go for a mosey.

      Thanks for stopping by to comment. I never know if my silliness will resonate with other people, so your comment is most welcome.

      Liked by 2 people

  3. This morning I received a “payment is waiting” notice from PayPal. It’s for $80 from a girl in Apex, North Carolina who is paying me for two bunnies. I love rabbits, but I don’t have any for sale. Due to the high coyote population in our neighborhood lately, I haven’t even seen a rabbit. I found the girl on Facebook, since PayPal gave me her address. I sent her a message, even though we’re not friends…we’ll see what happens.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Jill, oh that’s funny. You’re not a bunny momma? It is good of you to try to correct this error in the way you did. I hope the girl in Apex NC gets her money back. Also, interesting to know the going rate of a bunny rabbit. I feel informed, thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

      • As long as I don’t except the money, even if she doesn’t get my FB message, she should be able to figure out the error. Now I’m wondering if someone has posted an ad that I have bunnies for sale. With meat being so hard to find in the grocery stores, I’m hoping she doesn’t have other ideas for these rabbits…thinking Fatal Attraction…eek! 😦

        Liked by 2 people

  4. Ok. My plan for the day is a long walk, call my dad for his birthday, by flowers, clean fridge, and read. I already worked on my novel, mini meditation and wrote my blog. On another note, I continue to lose my mind….last week I took pictures of my pets and wrote captions on them because this is who I’ve become….they’re on my Instagram if you insta. Ism being totally American because since I am done with this, I think it should all be over…so how do you think my mental health is?🤪

    Liked by 4 people

  5. I’ve never heard the term Babboo but I always enjoy learning about quirky things like that. My plans today? I’m going to the grocery store, wearing my mask and carrying my hand sanitizer. If I’m able to score toilet paper you’ll hear my shouts of joy. Funny that you can’t read during this pandemic, reading is the only thing I’m been able to do and I should be doing so many other things instead.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jean R, my Sweet Babboo is from a specific source but no one has known it yet. As for the origins of the term I didn’t know them until shoreacres did the research.

      I hope to hear your shouts of joy across the pond later in the day. Best of luck with your shopping.

      I’m glad you’re reading up a storm. I thought I’d be like that but my focus isn’t there. I refuse to force myself to read a book, like I’m in college doing an assignment, so I’m goofing off more than usual. We adapt, don’t we?

      Liked by 1 person

  6. As you know Ally, I am packing up for a cross-country relocation. So lots going on at Chez Badass. And people are expressing envy at the happenings here. And that I actually have many things to occupy my days. You know the situation is pretty bad when people are jealous that you are packing up for a move 😜.

    Deb

    Liked by 3 people

    • Deb, ha! Yes, you make a valid point. I was sitting here reading your comment and thinking to myself: well at least she has something productive to do. There was a bit of jealousy in my thought, I have to admit. Oh. my. goodness.

      Liked by 2 people

  7. I am aware of Sally using that phrase for Linus, but I also think it predates that usage.

    I started with grocery shopping. Will walk the dog and myself to unwind from that.

    Liked by 1 person

  8. I’m thinking Jungle Book, myself. Now, the person who made that video (and especially the one IN the video) have clearly gone corona-starkers.

    I’m with you in wanting some annuals for all my empty flower pots, and tomatoes, please. I just don’t want to be forced to buy from big box chain, you know? Trying to be patient and buy local.

    My life is pretty even-keeled at the moment. I’m fortunate, I think.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Eilene, it wasn’t the Jungle Book but that’s a good guess. I adored the dinosaur in the video. I’m about to the point of ordering a butterfly net and starting to emulate the dinosaur.

      Our local garden nurseries aren’t open so I went to Kroger and got the annual flowers + a few herbs. Didn’t see any tomato plants, which is a bummer. I’m glad your life is as even-keeled as it is. That’s a good thing.

      Liked by 1 person

  9. Definitely feeling a little…strained here. I miss my Real Life although, truth be told, I’m just inconvenienced overall. It’s kind of like being a dog on a run–I’ve got some freedom, but if I go too far, I get yanked back hard.

    Luckily, I am able to read! I just sat down in the Quiet one day and began. The book was good, and I zipped right along. What a joy. I do so hope that you get there soon yourself.

    Liked by 3 people

    • nance, I like your description of how you’re living right now. I feel the same way. I am a doggo on a leash, ready to run, unable to do so. May is one of my favorite months to do things, so phooey.

      I don’t know why I’m not inclined to read right now, but I am. Apparently I need a normal pace of life for me to want to escape into a book. I’m too aware of my [threatening?] environment all the time now to feel comfortable ignoring it with my nose in a book.

      Like

  10. Working, eating, sleeping with some cleaning and cooking for the week thrown in.
    I have been reading more, mostly because I am now borrowing ebooks from the library and have that “return date” in mind. Saving money as well with this plan but I still like the feel of a real book.
    Coming up on hot here over the weekend so I am going to push summer and have hot dogs and potato salad if I can get my grocery order in.
    Oh, and the hummingbird feeders are going out I think. Pretty sure I heard one flying around a few days ago.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Deb, your plans sound delightful and normal and completely as they should be. We’ve got a bunch of books around here but I don’t seem to have the energy to pick one up and read it. I hope you get to have your summer meal because that sounds like fun. I’ve yet to see a hummingbird here. I hope yours have arrived and that they enjoy your hospitality once you put the feeders out.

      Liked by 2 people

  11. I find it hilarious that when people are either dropping something off (masks) or picking something up (seedlings, baked goods) from my house, they always call or text with, “Will you be around today?”

    First of all, we don’t meet. The item goes on or off my porch, with no contact. So it doesn’t matter if I’m around. Second, of course I am around. Everyone is around. Kid is around. Husband is around. Dog and cat are around. No matter how I wish for the opposite, we are around for the foreseeable future.

    Liked by 2 people

    • AutumnAshbough, made me laugh out loud with this one. Thank you. What an excellent point you make, all things considered. Yes, we all are around all the time now because life is being around the house. Some days that is great, other days… I write a post like this one.

      Liked by 2 people

  12. I love all of your babbling blogs! The video is a hoot. Very silly! I have a free day and am listening to beautiful piano music at the moment. I’m just going to take it easy today. Will probably check out the farmers’ market this afternoon. I had the oldest grand yesterday. We walked to the park to get fresh river water for his tadpole he brought home the other day. And he also found a huge worm that is now his “pet.” He then used painter’s tape to make a huge spider web in the master bedroom, which is also the playroom. He then did a craft project, involving cutting, gluing and coloring. Not sure if this all keeps me young or just exhausts me! I love the term “Sweet Baboo.”

    Liked by 2 people

    • Beth, I got a charge out of the video, too. There are more from this person on YouTube, all of them hilarious.

      A free day? That’s all we have here. We’re not to associate with anyone who isn’t in our household so all of your grandmothering wouldn’t fly around here. I know every state has its own restrictions so I’m sure you’re abiding by yours… still you get to go outside to play? Not jealous. So many people in this country and around the world don’t have that luxury at the moment. Enjoy!

      Liked by 2 people

  13. Is Sweet Babboo from The Jungle Book? That was my first and only thought.

    99% of the time, I blog from the top of my head. Or is it the bottom? Rambling thoughts are the best I think.

    I’ve not tried to crochet since I was probably around 13, and I wasn’t very good at it.

    I feel like I’m in a nice little bubble during all of this and then I also feel guilty for being in a nice little bubble. No winning.

    Today? Reading some blogs this morning. {Good morning!} I’ve got some laundry in the washer and I need to fold/put away two baskets that I’ve been putting off. Also gonna do some butterfly work; cleaning caterpillar cages, watering my milkweed farm, possibly releasing some babies; etc..

    Tomorrow? That’s too far off to think about.

    I hope you enjoy your time with the flowers, crocheting and whatever else your heart desires.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Suz, the phrase isn’t from The Jungle Book but it’s a good guess. I wonder how many blogger still plan their posts using an editorial calendar? When I started blogging that was the done thing.

      I am not good at crocheting but it is keeping me entertained so I suddenly like it very much. I know what you mean about feeling guilty about being in a good place during this pandemic. We are safe and healthy, but so many people are not. So worrying to me.

      I need to start some laundry so I’ll add that to my list for today. Of course, I could do it tomorrow because not going anywhere today, but I like to keep, if not busy, busy-ish.

      Thanks for stopping by to comment. I enjoy hearing from you.

      Liked by 2 people

  14. I will be raising more colonies of yeast today. Not much fun to watch, but with the yeast shortage, people are enjoying sourdough bread and even discovering they have the patience to wait for two days to create a loaf. I put the little colonies in canning jars and sit them on my table outside and they disappear. I think the fairies in my garden are helping with the distribution because these little babboos are suffering from cabin fever as well. I have used the babboo expression all my life, and my mom did too, but have never thought about where it came from!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dorothy, I’ve yet to try to make yeast but considering time is my new best friend I might give it a whirl. Not a huge fan of sourdough bread so I’m on the fence about it.

      The babboo expression is one I associate with one particular thing but apparently it’s been used for a long time. I didn’t know that, so today I’ve learned something. Another fun fact to know and tell!

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Plans? What day is it? How many days have I worn this shirt? 😆 Like you, I can’t sit still long enough to read a novel. Usually I can read for hours, but nope, too fidgety and on edge. We have a bathroom remodel in the works and until we finish I can only take showers in the small br. I am a tub super-soaker lavender bath salts gal! A nice long soak is what calms me the most. Deep sigh. I wonder when this will be behind us. Stay well and sane, my friend 😷

    Liked by 3 people

    • Sue, yes, I am to a point where I wonder what day of the week it is, too. I understand the need to self-isolate, but my life is turning into mush– along with my mind apparently. On edge is exactly how I feel when I try to read a book. I hope your bathroom remodel finishes soon so that you can get your tub bath. Your plan sounds lovely and inviting. Thanks for playing along with my silly post. It’s fun to hear from you.

      Liked by 1 person

    • evilsquirrel13, I’d forgotten about that song. It is not the source of the saying, but you’re on the right track with your idea about Linus and…?

      Like

      • Oh, I already knew the reference. My Mom made us watch all of the holiday cartoon specials back in the day, including The Great Pumpkin. I’m pretty sure that was the first time I was ever introduced to the word “restitution,” though I can’t believe someone Sally’s age would know about it.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Made you watch? I couldn’t wait to watch all of those Charlie Brown specials. Of course we didn’t have cable so they were something out of the ordinary on the regular channels. Here is your 🌷now that I’ve confirmed you know your Peanuts.

          Liked by 1 person

    • Marian, oh your good deed is fun. Who doesn’t like hibiscus and want them to grow up to be happy flowers! The ride-by-visits are the new norm, aren’t they? Rather like how stress-free they are. No need to tidy your house.

      Like

  18. Well, I can hear the little voice saying,
    “My Sweet Baboo”, but I can’t put a face on it! GRRR! No pink tulip for me this morning. Rex chasing a butterfly made me laugh. That was so silly!

    I’m birding a lot. I hope to get back on the trail this afternoon and find two woodpeckers that are quicker than lightning! I’ve seen them both, but haven’t got a decent image of either so the chase continues. April was a brilliant birdy month for me!

    This morning I am unboxing a new patio umbrella, and hopefully, I love it and it finds a home on my back patio. I’m eagerly waiting for a firepit that should arrive Thursday. I’m in get the patio cute for Spring and Summer mode. I’ve ordered two new pots, but they haven’t shipped and it’s been a week! I don’t think the store can find them. I’m a bit frustrated about that, but then I think, “maybe by the time they find them, ship them, and they arrive perfectly I’ll brave going to the nursery to pick out some flowers and stuff to plant in them”! I hope!

    That’s how I’m staying sane and active. You keep babbling, and rambling cause it all makes perfect sense to me! 😀

    Liked by 3 people

    • Deborah, you’re right in that a character used to call someone a Sweet Babboo. Maybe it’ll come to later as you wander the trails. Which sounds like a great plan for your day, btw.

      I empathize with your irritation about getting something you ordered online for your patio. I’ve been attempting to put together a new rug + pillows + flowers pots combo for our screened-in porch and am waiting, waiting, waiting for some of the pillows that’ll bring the room together. It’s annoying as heck to be in limbo unable to finish my design project.

      Thanks for stopping by to comment. I’m glad I make sense to you. Some days I’m not sure I make sense to myself. 😟

      Liked by 2 people

  20. “Sweet Babboo!” I haven’t heard that in so long! Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
    I have the opposite dilemma to you. I can’t stop reading. Hard as I try. It’s a great form of escape.
    I wish that I could crochet — but I have seriously know skills in that area.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Donna, it’s funny how that old phrase drifted into my head seemingly out of nowhere. I need to use it more of often.

      About half the people I know can’t stop reading while the other half can’t start reading. It’s trippy how we ‘re dealing with ye olde books. Crocheting is something I learned as a kid. I’m not good at it but it does give me something to focus on– seeing as I’m not reading. 😞

      Liked by 1 person

  21. Sally and Linus! Charlie Brown’s Christmas is my dad’s favorite so we watched it every year. For the record, mine is The Grinch narrated by Boris Karloff, not the one who narrated later. We picked up some vegetable plants this past weekend to try our hand at container gardening. We have no spots that get enough full sun but we thought we’d try this so we can move them around. I also picked up a dipladenia for the back porch and a calla lily for the front yard. I’m planning to try to make a candle today. My attempt at making lotion didn’t go as planned. It was more salve than lotion. I also ordered some things to try to make bath salts. I can crochet a bit, but nothing fancy. It was hilarious when my great-grandmother, grandmother, and great-aunt all tried to teach me since they couldn’t seem to explain it fully to an 8 or 9-year-old lefty. That video is too funny. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    • Amy, this 🌷 is for you. You are absolutely correct. I prefer The Grinch, version mentioned, too.

      I’m going to put the annuals in pots and move them around as need be. I also got some herbs so they’ll be fun to watch grow, too. I wanted a dipladenia but there weren’t any. I like those plants and have on perfect spot for one.

      You tried to make lotion? And now you’re onto candlemaking? Oh you strive high and I am impressed. I remember being taught how to crochet by my mother, but we’re both right-handed so no problem. The video made me laugh out loud when I first saw it. Such a clever premise.

      Liked by 2 people

      • I ended up planting basil. I wanted to try some other herbs but they were out. I hardly ever try anything crafty, but it’s been fun. Made some bath salts today that I’ll be trying out tomorrow! 🙂

        Like

        • I’ve grown basil and it took over the pot. It was a real go-getter of a plant. Enjoy your bath salts. That’s another thing I’ve never made and cannot tell you why. 🤔

          Liked by 1 person

  23. Dear Person Who Attempts to Arrive Pre-Amused to Life –
    You totally crack me up. Which is a good thing, as I was woefully near giving up on the day, and it’s not even 10 AM yet. It’s rainy, I’m wonky, and focus is a thing that has left the building and apparently isn’t allowed back in. I am however able to gloat because at least the chocolate is on this side of the closed door. While I had to resort to googling Sweet Babboo, being the anagram junkie I am, I uncovered a very important message. It rearranges itself into Woo Best Babe. Now that sounds like a most excellent project for these sequestered times doesn’t it?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deborah, don’t give up on the day quite yet. I mean if you make it to noon, then that’s a whole different story if you give up on the day. Totally understood. 😉

      It has gotten gray here now. We don’t have any chocolate in the house, but that’s ok because we have some Rice Krispie Treats which I much prefer. [Don’t judge.]

      Woo Best Babe is the anagram of Sweet Babboo. Well there you go, something learned. Thanks for a deeper insight into Sweet Babboo. I shall ponder on it extensively this afternoon whilst planting the annuals!

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Well lets see.

    1. Last spring when we did our community band concert filled with John Williams music we played Jurassic Park and a clarinet player’s mother (who was probably younger than me, but maybe my age (64)) had a that dinosaur suit and the clarinet player volunteered for her mom to run across the stage at some point during the piece. She was the hit of the evening.

    2. I can’t seem to read a book either. Or even an entire blog post. But I read yours! Because you are entertaining!

    3. I haven’t bought any annual plants yet…too cold and our nurseries aren’t open anyway.

    4. I should be out weeding my numerous flower beds right now but I’d rather amuse you.

    5. I also need to order the first of many dump trucks of mulch but that would mean that shortly I will need to move the first of many huge piles of mulch, wheelbarrow by wheelbarrow. I am too old for this.

    6. I have orioles at my feeder!

    7. It’s cold today, was 30 something this morning. Glad Katie and I didn’t camp out last night! We camped out the night before and it was cold enough, low 40s. I don’t think summer is ever going to get here.

    8. If summer DOES get here I don’t think I’m going to be able to go camping in a campground as they keep extending their closures. That makes me sad. Camping in the back yard is not the same.

    9. Don’t want to end on a sad note….what do you have in your fridge (or freezer) that’s good? Could it possibly also be good for you? I have a big bag of frozen strawberries. Maybe I’ll go eat some before I go out and weed.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Dawn,
      1. I’m impressed that you know someone with that dinosaur suit. It’s a hoot.
      2. Thanks for reading this post. The whole inability to read a book is annoying, but I figure it’s situational not permanent.
      3. I got the annuals at Kroger. Our nurseries aren’t open yet either.
      4. Consider me amused. Weed later.
      5. Moving mulch is lousy, I agree. But the results are instantaneous so there’s that.
      6. You have the best birds.
      7. I’m wondering about summer, too. I don’t like the humidity but a little warmth would go a long way right about now.
      8. I didn’t know that about campgrounds, but I’d guess it is for the best.
      9. We had some frozen strawberries but I turned them into a smoothie the other day. I like strawberries so I’ll order some more. What is spring without strawberry shortcake, I ask you?

      Liked by 2 people

  25. My plans for the day? Well, maybe I’ll do some trimming of grasses in places the mower won’t go. Maybe I won’t. Maybe I’ll wash some windows. Maybe I won’t. Rarely do I have plans that are fixed, and everything depends upon my motivation levels as the day progresses. Maybe I’ll just stay inside and weave. I’ve been reading a lot lately, often reading instead of turning the TV on. I don’t think audio books would work for me – I’d probably fall asleep.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Carol, your plans, flexible as they are, sound perfect to me. I tend to move at my own pace, too. I hadn’t thought about how listening to a book might lull me to sleep. Good point. I just need to wait until I’m ready to read again, then get back at it.

      Liked by 2 people

  26. I think I’ll binge watch CoronaRex videos today ~> I see that he’s got kite flying, golf carting, wiffle ball practice, and chasing butterflies on his agenda. 😀

    No complaints here, Ally. All this “stay at home” sameness isn’t affecting my psyche in a negative way. I walk, blog, cook, eat, read, do jigsaws, chat with friends on the phone, send birthday missives, etc. The biggest change is that I’m not playing Bridge. Instead, I do the NY Times crosswords, Sudokus, Spelling Bee & Set puzzles. In short . . . I’m just “chasing butterflies” like CoronaRex.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Nancy, there’s a CoronaRex video of the dinosaur walking the dog that is funny. The dog was not liking it at all.

      Your lifestyle sounds perfectly suited for this self-quarantining. You’ve got this. Overall I’m doing great, but without an end in sight I do feel like I’m drifting some days. Of course as a known slacker, I’m better than most at drifting. Must remember my strengths. 🤔

      Liked by 2 people

  27. Maybe I am weird but I’m not having any difficulty with this stay-at-home stuff. Perhaps it’s because I was already working from home? Perhaps it’s because I am walking the dog twice a day so I get out? I would love more transcription work because…money…but I could just as easily spend all day in the studio working on crafting projects. In fact, the husband is going to visit his mom for a week and I may indeed do that. It may even extend into the night, who knows? As far as reading goes, I am into the book 11/22/63 by Stephen King and it may take a while because I only read at night in bed and tend to fall asleep, although with the hubs gone I may start reading in the daytime too. The possibilities are endless! Can you tell I’m ready for a break from people? We also have our two adult children living with us but they tend to occupy themselves while the DH needs a bit more of my attention. They probably wouldn’t even notice if I lived in the studio for the week. LOL Keep slinging the word hash, Ally. You are performing a great service here in the blogosphere!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janet, I don’t think you are weird at all. I think you know yourself and how to keep yourself occupied because of it. I’m an introvert so not being around people doesn’t stress me, but I do miss being spontaneous about my projects. No more popping out the door on a whim to do something.

      I wish I could get more into reading again, but I won’t criticize myself for not being able to. I’ve never been much for reading in bed but in the afternoon I’m usually good about engaging my brain in a book.

      Enjoy your time alone in your studio, on your own doing your own thing. Sometimes I find that when life becomes less structured I get the most creative. Bet it’ll be the same way for you.

      Liked by 2 people

  28. I’m just making it up as I go along here … day by day,
    Today – it’s an allergy alert day for me. Both eyes are now red, puffy, and swollen.

    Oh, the joy.

    It’s bad enough we are living through a plague, but now I have to actually look like I’ve been infected by one 😷

    Liked by 4 people

    • Joanne, made me laugh. I know all about itchy allergy eyes, so I feel your pain. Most annoying. I bet with your snazzy bandana on you look delightfully nutty. As one does. During allergy season during a pandemic.

      Liked by 3 people

    • Laura, your discretion while answering the question allows me to award you a 🌷assuming you know which character said the phrase in question. Don’t know why I thought of Sweet Babboo, but once I did I had to use it here. Had to, I say.

      Liked by 2 people

        • Yes she is. I knew you knew from the sly way in which you commented. I thought everyone would know this phrase, but I guess not everyone was steeped in Peanuts as much as I was while growing up. Whatever does that say about me? 🤔

          Liked by 2 people

  30. For the last little bit, in between general cleaning, washing windows & working on a jigsaw puzzle, I repainted our master bedroom & ordered a new duvet cover online which just arrived today 🎉. Oh & trying to fit in some exercise! Trying to do some reading but like you, I have had trouble concentrating on a book. Living the Covid dream🥴

    Liked by 3 people

  31. That video was cute.

    I tend to blog stories like the nonsense of what happens here from one day to the next with 6 kids. I don’t have a calendar, but I do have little notes where I jot down things I think are blog-worthy to share, like my 12 year old admitting last week that she tooted in class (back when they were in school) and was embarrassed but really has no idea how to hold gas in. And how my 16 year old was possibly more embarrassed to learn that her younger sister tooted in class. I also babble blog from time to time, not sure which method is preferred by my readers.

    I just finished sewing about 50 masks – just need to find a place to donate them.

    Working on updating photo albums. The challenge is where did I leave off and what photos have I already ordered? Ordered a bunch the other night and then found a box of photos I ordered a few years ago, guess what? Yep- many of the ones I just ordered. Ugh.

    Working on organizing my chapters for a book I am trying to write.

    Lots of meal preparations and grocery list making/planning as I struggle to keep up with the CONSTANT demand for my people to eat, and then eat again.

    Plus I have a college senior who is really struggling to live at home right now, so we are all walking on eggshells as we try to avoid setting him off. Most unpleasant to be locked up in close quarters with this situation. Wearing on me fairly heavily and grappling with the daunting task of identifying a different therapist for him/us.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ernie, I make little notes about things I might want to blog about, too. I sometimes write blog posts that are more formal, as in an article format or an opinion piece, but usually I write more by the seat of my pants when it comes to this blog. I like keeping it loose here.

      You made 50 masks! That is astounding. Good for you and whoever gets one.

      I’m the worst at organizing photos and remembering where they are and what I did with them. I wish you well with your photo albums. That is a project I could tackle except I don’t enjoy doing photos so I think I won’t. For now.

      I know how much effort goes into keeping two adults fed let alone your group. I hope that you’re not having difficulties getting groceries like some commenters have mentioned. Like anyone needs more to do when it comes to getting food on the table.

      I cannot imagine what it would have been like to finish college while living at home. I’m sorry it has become a strain for everyone, but trust that you’ll find a way to manage it all. We adapt when we have to, don’t we? Thanks for playing along with this post. I enjoy learning what is up with my readers.

      Like

  32. I don’t know the reference. I’m doing OK for the time being, but very concerned about the future and how this will play out. Second wave? No end in sight to my confinement? The inevitable changes to the world as we knew it–travel, eating out, getting our hair cut, etc. So, I bury myself in distracting mysteries, which are the only genre I can read right now. I have to focus on the plot, so it keeps my mind from wandering to other concerns. I am planning to get annuals some time soon. Perhaps tomatoes too, although I’m hoping to go back to New York this summer to visit my daughter, son-in-law and coming grandchild. HOPING HARD!!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Margaret, the second wave aspect of this pandemic has me worried, too. I see no end to staying at home through this month, but then what? I don’t see much travel or eating out or getting my hair cut in my future. On the one hand I’m grateful to be safe, but it is wearying on my soul.

      I haven’t tried reading a lightweight mystery and that’s a good idea. I have a couple Agatha Raisin mysteries I’ve not read sitting in the TBR pile so I’ll try that. I love how much AR annoys me, so she might be the perfect distraction.

      Along with the annuals I got some herbs. I wanted some tomatoes but there were none that I could see. I figure even if we don’t eat the herbs, it’ll be enjoyable to watch them grow. Small happinesses, must find them.

      Liked by 2 people

      • Agatha is super annoying, but she’s also funny and quirky, so she might be the ticket. I’ve been reading a lot of Ann Cleeves (her Shetland and Vera series) Vera is another irascible character who might amuse you. I wasn’t crazy about Vera book 1, but I really liked the 4th book in the series.

        Liked by 1 person

        • I have a real love-hate relationship with Agatha. I like the TV series based on the books. It does a great job of presenting the characters on the screen as they are described in the books. I’ll look for Ann Cleeves books. Thanks for the suggestion.

          Like

  33. I’m rooting for the butterflies! Go butterflies! Why doesn’t Corona Rex go after the anti-lockdown protestors who are marching under confederate flags? Bag them and ship them off to Jurassic Park.
    My exciting week may include a trip to the nursery for dirt. I adore wandering around our local nursery (it’s like a garden) but I guess I can’t.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jan, ha! Rooting for the butterflies? I do like your idea about catching the protesters in a net, then sending them off to somewhere. I read that Carnival Cruises are starting up again in August. Perhaps all the anti-lockdown protesters could go on a cruise… together… spreading their germs and bad ideas amongst themselves…? 🤷‍♀️

      I adore wandering around a garden nursery, but in this case I dashed into Kroger to buy the annuals. No way to dawdle now in the time of COVID-19.

      Liked by 1 person

  35. Love me some Peanuts! “Linus & Lucy” was the ringtone on my phone for years. Nowadays, I just let it vibrate.

    Plans for the day? Work. Then eat. Then sleep.
    Tomorrow? Work. Then eat. Then sleep.
    Thursday? Work. Then eat. Then…

    Well. You get the point, I’m sure!

    Liked by 3 people

    • Swinged Cat, I like your former choice of ringtone. I find that people who know Peanuts are a special group. Meant in a positive way, of course.

      Your plans for the week are straightforward and I trust you’ll be able to keep to them. Being somewhat of a slacker I might not follow through with them, but you, kind sir, will. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  36. After a few days of wildly fluctuating anxiety, today I went to my favorite nursery which just opened this weekend. I went appropriately suited up but was pleasantly surprised to see only two other customers and they were far, far away from me. Looking at plants and flowers is such a therapy for me I felt like I should have paid just to roam. I did buy two new plants for the pond and it put me in a great mood for the rest of the day. We drove by another favorite nursery and the parking lot was full. Nope, not today. Maybe next week after the Mother’s Day frenzy is over. I can’t focus to read either and it’s so annoying because I have the time!

    Liked by 4 people

    • Kate, I’d love to go into a garden nursery to reduce my anxiety. Like you I find them therapeutic and I love to wander, dreaming of possibility. HOWEVER, I got our annuals at Kroger because none of the local nurseries are open yet. I did the fastest shopping dash of my life to get them from the display out front of the store, pay for them inside the store, and scurry home with them. Not my usual approach, but…

      Liked by 3 people

  37. The fav. nursery with all the wind chimes, waterfalls, and the most (pricey but they last longer) beautiful flowers is just too big a draw right now with everyone rushing outside as lockdown is basically over. Maybe I can sneak in mid week early. The beach opened Friday and the beach patrol said it looked like July 4th holiday. Hotels/beach houses were 100% booked after being vacant for weeks by mandate. Too in about 10-14 days…hopefully the “cases” will be light and survivable. I think we may be in for months of rolling lockdowns like brownouts. Such a big majority of the deaths are from senior citizen/nursing home n our county. Those corporations for years put profits ahead of protecting their residents.
    We still play to do what we always do – basically stay to ourselves. We just are into flowing along these years. Nice not to have schedules – Sr Staff works some from home – now a bit more as his friend/business associate died of the virus and his kids never really engaged into the business despite getting checks.
    One thing I have noticed that for some reason there are more interruptions now for whatever I normally do all day long that keeps me so busy. And also not able to sit down and really read. But if the birds would stop their morning performances above the patio, maybe I would be able to concentrate? HAHA
    Take care and flow on!

    Liked by 2 people

    • philmouse, I went to Kroger to buy our annuals. Not as exotic as the fancy garden nursery, but the flowers are pretty.

      I cannot believe that people are immediately disregarding the social distancing guidelines but your story is what I’m hearing in many places. You’re right, in 10-14 days we’re going to see a spike in cases across the nation. We are still in self-quarantine mode here, so I’m hoping it won’t be too bad around us. It’s heartbreaking about your senior citizen/nursing homes. What a scam by the owners.

      It’s odd to me how I’m unable to concentrate on books, but I’m not one to get too upset by what I can and cannot do. Sorry your birds are distracting you. They can be like that, you know. Flow on, is a great way to think about this.

      Liked by 1 person

  38. I can’t read either! What’s up with that? I bought all these books and haven’t read more then 10 pages. I detailed my car this morning to resist the urge to buy a new one. Took a hike in my new “quarantino de Mayo” T-shirt. Shopped on line and am planning a cornhole challenge with My sweet baboo later tonight. All in all a good day 😊

    Liked by 2 people

  39. Big, big day today. We get our CSA box delivery (it’s always “fun” to find out what they are out of so didn’t include in our box). We have a food pick-up scheduled at a local market (same issue with what will be missing). I picked some of our first blueberries this season… yum! And, finally, we have a driveway Cinco de Mayo happy hour scheduled with some neighbors. Maybe in the next few days we’ll put together a nursery list so we can plant a garden this year (something we haven’t done for a while due to travel, etc.).

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janis, it is exciting when you get your food delivery. I know what you mean about the issue of finding out what is missing so therefore all you menu plans have to shift around. It is tiring. Your happy hour sounds like fun. We don’t always plant a herb garden but this year we will. If nothing else it’ll give us something to do and it’ll look pretty. Considering we won’t be traveling, must have the pretty.

      Liked by 2 people

  40. That dinosaur does not appear to be trying very hard. Reading all the different comments is like viewing miniatures of people’s lives (and approaches and attitudes). Interesting stuff. Think of all the things we’ve learned for our next pandemic!😐

    I am doing yard work, it relaxes me and then you/I have something pretty to look at for all the time spent staring out the window! (When not gawking at passerby, neighbors, delivery vehicles etc.) I’ve been addicted to playing computer scrabble too.

    This isn’t the worst time in my life but it’s up there as one of the strangest. I don’t really know how to think about it – and wonder how I’ll frame it for myself in 2, 5, 10, or 20 years. There’s something very elusive about it all I can’t nail down. And I don’t want the media or politicians or celebrities to tell me what it means or what I should feel or think (now or future). It’s important to me to hang on to my own impressions.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Colette, I’ve never worn a dinosaur suit, but I’m guessing it is difficult to move when wearing one. Not that you aren’t right about the lack of effort while trying to catch butterflies. Just giving CoronaRex the benefit of the doubt.

      Yard work is a great way to balance our days, with COVID-19 or without. I agree about how weird this all is. I also agree with you that I won’t be able to understand my impressions of this time in history until it’s a few years out and I can get some perspective. Right now it is too much all the time for me to feel contemplative.

      Liked by 1 person

  41. First, I do love your engagement here. 104 comments. THAT IS INSANE. I LOVE THIS.
    Second, I do know what Sweet Baboo (sp?) is from because that is what my ex-husband used to call me HA. It’s from Peanuts, no?

    Third, I don’t have a third.

    Liked by 2 people

  42. Peanuts, Sally, Linus. 🙂 I thankfully don’t suffer from problems reading. I’ve been at it like made when not unpacking/organizing, taking a walk and photos, shopping (with mask, not fun anymore), working on taxes (the one good thing about the virus is the new date), making lemonade and freezing lemon juice from my “found” lemons, enjoying tea, writing blogs, etc. Took a nice bike ride with my husband this morning before he started work.

    As for getting silly, why not? Better than the people in our NextDoor group who are arguing about whether masks work a/o should be worn (vs. our freedom) and even better, the dangers of 5G. People get rather nasty.

    Stay well and silly.

    janet

    Liked by 3 people

    • Janet, yes, yes, yes. Here is your 🌷for knowing that. Your days sound lovely to me. A nice balance of doing and moving and reading, presumably while sipping lemonade.

      I know that I hear about people who are on social media who are over the top angry about all sorts of things. Haters or nasty people are too close-minded and tedious for me to take seriously. I don’t have the energy so I avoid all social media wherein I might find them.

      Perhaps that’s my key to being silly? Ignore the nasties. Best of luck with them.

      Liked by 2 people

  43. Oh, that “Sweet Babboo” was a throwback from the old days when we had fresh Peanuts ‘toons to entertain us. Speaking of entertainment, when you are ready to walk the streets again, it’s too bad you are not in a walking group because this walking group in metro Detroit aims to please – they rack up their steps decorated as animals, cartoon characters and there is a T-Rex too. I will keep my solitary walk – they aren’t near me, or I’d take a photo:
    https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2020/04/25/ferndale-trex-walking-club-coronavirus/3025908001/

    Liked by 3 people

    • Linda, that walking club video is a hoot– and a holler, as they used to say. I do enjoy seeing that our current pandemic hasn’t got everyone down. I am almost inspired to order one of those suits and parade around the neighborhood in it. I don’t want to be any of those dinosaurs, but the unicorn leading the parade is a lovely shade of pink. I could rock that character.

      Liked by 1 person

  44. It’s Story A Day May, so I get up early every morning and write a story and post it on my blog. Much coffee is consumed. I have one book in the kitchen, non-fiction, that I read while I’m cooking/eating (sometimes) and a fiction book I carry around and read on. Right now, my non-fiction is Andrew Yang’s THE WAR ON NORMAL PEOPLE and my fiction is Katherine Arden’s magnificent THE BEAR AND THE NIGHTINGALE. I’ve read it before, but #4 Daughter gave me the trilogy, so I’m rereading this first of those books before moving on.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marian, you are being productive this month! Good for you. I used to get up early to write, but the longer this sequestered life continues, the more I’m sleeping in.

      As a normal person I need to read Yang’s book. I certainly feel like there is, if not a war, at least a gang fight against me. The normal one. The rational one. The one in the middle holding it all together.

      I’ve never heard of Katherine Arden’s trilogy and would usually say I’ll add it to my TBR list. However, I’m not reading books at the moment so I’ll make a note of it for the future when my focus returns. Thanks for mentioning it here.

      Liked by 1 person

  46. Reading has not been easy for me, but I’m plowing through. Audiobooks while I walk the dog are easier, as they keep me from listening to the news. I’ve decided to go full comfort book and am reading ‘Little Women’. I have no idea when the last time I read this was, but trust me, it’s been DECADES. Did you see the most recent film version earlier this year? My daughter and I did, and we really liked it a lot. Recommended when you get the chance.

    Hang in there, and keep on keeping on in your own silly way. That’s how to hang on to your self. Your sense of self, I guess I mean. (Wow, that got profound fast…back to silly!)

    Liked by 2 people

    • J, I haven’t tried audiobooks and may give that a go. I listen to podcasts, but that’s more like old-time radio than a narrative. You’re onto a good idea with revisiting the classics, stories I may already know, might even remember bits of!

      I like your profundity, by the way. I am silly only because I see things deeply first. Then I remind myself to lighten up. 🤷‍♀️

      Like

  47. I think we’re all going a little bit crazy in quarantine, since it’s not good for our mental or emotional health to be cooped up indefinitely. The barrage of different information we get hit with almost daily doesn’t help, because at this point it’s hard to know what to believe. So I try to focus more on my immediate surroundings and the present and just hope for the best!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Ann, you said it. This isn’t great for our mental or emotional health, yet here we are. Safe, but also stressed in weird unfamiliar ways. I have no idea what to believe either, but have come to trust my own intuition about things. This allows me to get on with my life, such as it is now, and to not worry [too much] about anything else. What more can you do?

      Liked by 1 person

      • That’s what I do too! Trust my own instincts, and double check the “facts” that are all over the internet. It’s calming and it helps me cope so much. I think humans just aren’t good with uncertainty, so many try to come up with theories they then decide are fact. But I don’t operate that way, so I’ve learned to ignore them and to listen to my own heart. I’m glad you’ve done that too!

        Liked by 1 person

        • I’m right there with you about double-checking all information with at least two reliable sources. I’m sure you’re onto something with your observation that uncertainty unnerves human beings, to varying degrees, of course. I do my best to gather information, think through issues/events, then trust that I’m on the right path. And if I’m not? I’ll figure that out, too.

          Like

  48. Pingback: Last Words | Evil Squirrel's Nest

  49. Was so tempted to Google, but decided to be honest and say I don’t know the reference! 😀
    Totally get how difficult it is to focus. I have put down novels that just didn’t grab me immediately.
    This week, I have to conclude an editing project and return to writing my novel. I plan to eat copious amounts of chocolate and drink lots of tea.

    Liked by 2 people

    • L. Marie, you’re an honest person for admitting your inclination to cheat to find the answer to this very important question. As it has been revealed above already I’ll tell you the answer is: Sweet Babboo is what Sally called Linus in the Peanuts comic strip.

      I don’t envy you doing an editing job during this time. That takes focus, but writing your novel may be more fun. Less focus, more meandering could lead to some interesting situations. Enjoy your chocolate and tea.

      Like

  50. No plans, no nothing. SAS – Short Attention Span. We walk in the morning as we’re allowed to during 6 – 9 am. No beach walking. Cooking and baking, something I’ve NEVER done before … o ok, sounds like I am doing something. Can’t read due to SAS. Doing everything slowly, getting with the programme of the GREAT PAUSE we’re all in. Watching Netflix, eating banana bread made by me, and peanut butter cookies are next on the agenda … slack and slouch are my middle names.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Susan, I like your acronym: SAS. That is exactly what I’m dealing with here. It’s not like I’m a whirlwind of doing under normal circumstances, but right now I’m missing the ability to do what I want when I want to and that has turned me into a slug. I’m an introvert but this much time at home is trying even for me. Enjoy your walks, hope your cookies are a success. Take care.

      Liked by 1 person

  51. An old friend who lives in California called me yesterday, and we had a 45 minute conversation. It was nothing but gossip about people I used to know there, and he spared no smidgen of detail about some of these people. It was great stuff and we laughed hard. When we finally exhausted all of that, he casually mentioned that he was in nearby Daytona Beach (50 mins. from where we live here) because he 91 year-old father is dying. I did my, “Oh, no, I’m so sorry!” routine, but he wouldn’t hear of it. “Marty, he’s 91, he’s had a good life,” he responded. I’m not sure if I’ll see him on this trip, but I apparently helped him out. So that’s what I’m up to. I unwittingly performed a public service. – Marty

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marty, that’s a great story in which you are the star. I know what you mean about talking with old friends when it turns into a gossip-fest. Can it be anything else? Regardless of whether you see this person or not you’ve done a good thing by taking his mind off his parent’s health for a bit of time. As someone who was primary caregiver for a parent whose health was declining, any distraction is a wonderful one. Good job.

      Liked by 1 person

  53. Well, let’s see. Where to start. Oh, we got our stimulus money today, so that will help offset our big, nasty tax bill this year. Also, Survivor is on for TWO hours tonight instead of the usual one hour. Hmmm, what other fascinating tidbits can I share? Minnesota got a mention on the CBS evening news tonight about how fast our COVID cases are rising. What else? I’m thrilled (but kind of shocked) that our garden centers are considered “essential businesses,” and though we’re due for a cold weekend this weekend, after that it’s full speed ahead with flower shopping and planting (annuals and perennials). The husband has agreed to take over the much duller vegetable garden this year, so I’m grateful for that. My flowers keep me pretty busy. Lastly, our neighborhood wandering cat, Bob, whom we haven’t seen all winter, returned a week or two ago and has spent many days lounging on our porch. He’s sort of adopted us. We love him, but our bunny doesn’t like him one bit, so he can’t come in the house. And that, dear Ally, is my exciting life.

    Liked by 2 people

    • The Travel Architect, talk about living the high life! You have it going on. Money in, money out– so normal. I’m sorry to read that your state’s COVID-19 cases are rising, quickly. That is worrying. Garden centers around here are open now, I guess. I got our annuals and some herbs at the grocery store. I look forward to seeing photos of your flower garden when you get it going.

      As for a wandering cat named Bob… well, that is by far the best glimpse into your high life lifestyle. I can think of no better name for a roaming, elusive, but friendly-ish cat who lounges on your porch. Because he can.

      Liked by 1 person

  54. No tulip for me as I’ve no idea.
    I had a request from the music teacher to record some more feelings in my If You’re _ and You Know It playlist. She wanted more positive emotions (after asking me to add four negative ones 🙄 ) so I recorded those today. Tonight I’m doing a Zoom bar choir sesh which I’m sure will be hilarious. I was also supposed to run today but motivation eludes me. I’ve baked two loaves of sourdough and I have rhubarb and shiraz gin jam on the go. Which all sounds horribly productive. Sorry.

    Liked by 2 people

    • MOSY, you are being a busy bee of positivity and I like it. It makes me happy to know that somewhere in this world someone is doing the things. I’m intrigued by your Zoom bar choir session. If that wasn’t hilarious, then I don’t know what would be. That idea is whacked. As for the bread and jam, that idea is brilliant– and tasty I presume. Thanks for taking time out of your productive schedule to comment here. Carry on, my dear.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Okay, so Iso Bar Choir on Zoom was weird, funny and loads of fun actually. We all had to have our mics muted because time delays mean you can’t sing as a group so it was just me and the two women leading it but I could see everyone else singing (and taking sips of their beverage of choice because Bar Choir) and it was quite the hoot. I’ll be there next Thursday. 🙂 (Hey, since it’s on Zoom, it’s international so you could come too. Just check out Back Bar Choir on the Book or the Insta. for the next event.)

        Liked by 1 person

  55. Shoreacres has most eloquently covered my input on the Babboo/Babu subject 🙂 So, I’ll just share a clip. Before I get to the clip, I must tell you how Himself has been sending me links to cute puppies & bunnies pictures/videos, which I find in my in box when I wake up. One morning, there was nothing, so I went looking for myself. All I managed to come up with was this …
    https://www.livescience.com/singing-gorillas-uganda-pbs.html
    I must warn you that the gorillas don’t just sing, there are other sounds too :O

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, that’s an amazing video. I had no idea about any of that so thanks. I learn more things here on this blog because of commenters like you and Shoreacres. I like to learn.

      Like

  56. Ally, I have not had time to be stir crazy since work has kept me extremely busy, but I am getting whippy/silly from listening to cat snores and cries for food and not being able to hug people. My roommate and I are ridiculously weird at times, but it keeps us sane.

    I have not read any books either. I’m with you, this pandemic has not made me want to pick up a book and I’m certainly not getting one from the library. So, I walk and ride bike and hope that I might find a safe place to purchase a few flowers for the patio.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Mary, you’re fortunate to have your work to do. I realize that being extremely busy has its downside, but it does give your days focus. Something I seem to be losing right about now.

      I want to read a book and usually like doing that but I pick one up, stare at it like it’s written in Martian, then put it down. I hope you find a way to buy a few flowers for your patio. Flowers are uplifting.

      Liked by 1 person

  57. Hey there. We have friends who live in Paris. We spoke with them today via FaceTime. They said that on Monday coming, the lockdown there will be eased substantially. Many businesses will be allowed to open. Social distancing and maybe masks will remain operative, I think they said. It will be very interesting to see how all of that works out.

    Take care, Ally.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Neil, I’ll keep tabs on what happens in Paris next week. It’ll be an indication of how things may go for us here in the US. Hoping for the best, of course. Thanks for sharing that insight.

      Liked by 1 person

  58. Who has 150 comments?? You maybe silly, but that;s a fat record! You are crocheting, I am knitting my first sleeveless top. Why I choose linen, which is so hard to have an even stitch, it must be my overactive brain, getting into a frenzy if we don’t have a real reversal of this useless lockdown! Actually it’s pretty amusing to me to see the protests – it proves to me, America is still pretty healthy -the only ones who are bananas are the fearmongering government. Let me stop here before …. you know what.

    Liked by 2 people

    • DrJunieper, I’m as amazed as you are about the number of comments here. I like it and I suppose it goes to show something. Like being lighthearted and attentive to other people makes for a fun blog? Or perhaps people are bored and reading my thoughts + tribulations is a way to pass the time? I dunno, all I know is I appreciate the comments, one and all, so thanks for joining in here. Stay safe, be well.

      Like

  59. Ally, I want you to teach me how to “arrive pre-amused at life”. I think it would improve my mental health 100%. Is “Sweet Babboo” from Charlie Brown’s sister? I seem to remember Linus responding “I’m not your Sweet Babboo!” And, yeah. My plans for the day, week, and month are pretty much the same as yours.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Laurie, here is your 🌷 for knowing the answer to the question. As for arriving pre-amused… well, my experiences in life have lead me to not expect anything to work out like I plan it, soooo somewhere along the way I decided to just enjoy what happens in spite of my plans. Not that I don’t like it when things work out my way, but I try to take things in stride and not get too bent out of shape by what at one time I would have called failures. I dunno, does that make sense?

      Like

  60. Hi Ally – laughing at so many of your little lines in this post. And the lCorona Rex – lol
    and for me – it is better when the weather is nice.
    and maybe in an upcoming post you can ask folks what they are going to do when this is over – because it might remind us all that this will end – eventually. –
    and when we can visit others again – I am going to Canada to see family.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Yvette, I thought the Corona Rex video was a hoot. There are more on YouTube that are just as silly. So clever.

      I like your idea about thinking about what comes next. I’m hoping that the Great Pause, as it is being called, will give everyone a chance to decide what kind of future they want and how they might make it so without harming other people. Therein is the crux of the matter.

      Liked by 1 person

  61. Hi Ally, For a second I thought, Flintstones, and then recalled Peanuts. Those were the days.

    I have all sorts of things on the go and a list of “shoulds” that get longer, yet I will not tackle. I have some potentially rambling topics, too, and you have inspired me to ramble.

    We are beginning a level of opening up in about a week. Trepidation. It comes with all sorts of rules/fine print. I will take it day by day. Take care. Okay, I click on the video. I am sending to my granddaughter, who loves dinosaurs. Smile!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Erica/Erika, the saying is from Peanuts. I can’t explain why Sweet Babboo came into my brain, but it did so it’s here.

      Like you I’ve pushed my “shoulds” aside and am doing what needs to be done in the now. My to-do list can wait. I look forward to reading your rambling post when you get to it. Hope your granddaughter likes the dinosaur video. There are a bunch of them on YouTube, all as silly as can be.

      I wonder what the fine print will be when your region opens up again. Around here the rules aren’t too strict, but they seem to change every few days. We’ve decided it is easiest to stay at home for a few more weeks.

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  62. I get what you say Ally, about not having the concentration to read, but I wish I had a novel to attempt the try. Normally I have a stack out from the library but nothing had come in and it closed so quickly that I wasn’t able to browse the shelves. I’m reading non-fiction at night, (a travel book at the moment), the kinds of books you can just read a chapter or two until you feel drowsy, but it’s not the same as being engrossed in a novel. It’s still so cold here, that I haven’t bought any plants or flowers yet, although the garden centres are now allowed to be open for browsing inside not just pickup, but my rhubarb is growing (just planted last year) so I may harvest some and make some rhubarb scones….we all have to eat!

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    • I love rhubarb so I am envious of your plants. I grabbed the annuals and herbs so quickly that I wasn’t sure what I’d actually bought until I got home. We have the books here, but my brain is saying “I don’t think so.” How weird is that!

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  63. OMG. I’m wishing I had something exciting to say or share or anything. I’m just trying to hold on to my sanity.

    And no pretty pink tulip for me. I’m off to google!

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    • Katie, I wonder about my sanity some days. I seem grounded then out of nowhere I’m anxious. So strange, but I refuse to give up trying to live healthy and happy. Hang in there, oh honest curious woman who is going to find out the truth about Sweet Babboo! 🤓

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  64. Hi Ally Bean! Look, you are still blogging and have hundreds of comments. And it sounds like you’re speaking for a lot of us. I have no idea where this day (or week, or month) have gone to. But am starting to blog again because…well, just because what else is a person to do?

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    • Kathy, how wonderful to see you here! Nice to know you’re doing well despite the situation we all find ourselves in. I look forward to reading your blog posts. Like you alluded to, if nothing else blogging fills the hours productively during this weird pause in history.

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  65. Hey Ally,
    It does feel like its been the billionth, gazillionth day. So I’ve been lazy and convalescing (not Covid-19, thank goodness) and more recently (yesterday and today) plotting and planning — not to take over the world, but to recapture my own sphere of control (the house, yard, my sanity, etc.) and my own goals. So now I’m motivated (we’ll see how long that lasts. Ha!) I’m still on hiatus, but hopefully, I’ll start blogging again the first week of June. One of my goals is to grow my own herb garden in pots because I’d like fresh basil and mint and parsley, etc. Whenever I go to the grocery store, they’re usually out of what I need from the fresh herb dept. Do you have any words of wisdom for growing herbs? I understand (from watching Food Network) that basil goes to seed pdq. Maybe I need to plant in intervals so I can have basil throughout the summer. What do you think? Is it too ambitious to grow tomatoes along with them? Glad you’re still blogging, my friend! Mona

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    • Mona, I like your attitude: “to recapture my own sphere of control.” That is exactly what I need to do. Make goal, have plan, do.

      As for herbs, my only advice is to remember to water them, then ignore them more than tend them. As for basil I start it from seed and use some of it as fillers in pots with flowers. Once it gets going, look out.

      My experiences with tomatoes are mixed. Some years I pick a plant that thrives, other years not so much. We have probs with squirrels eating our tomatoes on the vine so it is Woman Versus Animal when it come to the ‘maters. Best of luck with your gardening. It’s fun to see what grows– and what doesn’t!

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  66. Hi Ally Bean!
    I am roasting a turkey breast today. I am also making mashed potatoes and gravy. I’m hyped about it.
    Otherwise for snorts and giggles, Sassy & I went to the pharmacy for monthly prescriptions. She wants to drive all the time.
    I worked all week. I feel indispensable there, and work is the only thing that I can truly focus on. I have read non-fiction here and there, in a big book that I’ve been reading for a long time. Fiction isn’t keeping my interest.
    Life is whack right now.
    More gravy?

    Liked by 2 people

    • joey, your dinner sounds yummy. You’re fortunate to have a job wherein you can lose yourself and feel like you’re doing something productive in the process. Maybe I should try to read non-fiction? That’s an idea, as long as there’s no test later on the material. And yes, more gravy please. At all meals.

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  67. I guess it is no surprise to tell you that my oven has been working overtime. Weirdly, I don’t have any FOMO at all – I am actually enjoying this down time but don’t get much achieved for the time allocated. It is a paradox. When I am busy, I get more done. When I am laid back, almost nothing gets completed. I drift from task to task without too much direction, but I do like this relaxed time, no pressure and no time constraints. I regret not being able to be focused on reading a book though, but somehow can focus for hours at a stretch on mine and other’s blogs? Funny, huh?

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    • Amanda, you’re right about how paradoxical life is at the moment. With all the time in the world to do the things, I seem to be doing less of the things, even though I think I want to do the things, so maybe I don’t want to do the things after all. 🤔

      Like you I’ve been doubling down on blogging while not reading a book. If nothing else, I’ve gotten more into a groove within the blogosphere, a groove that I hope to keep with when we, the world, start living our new normal lives.

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  68. I’m also fussing with my plants – houseplants and seeds that I’ve started inside (and will transplant soon). My houseplants look the best they’ve ever looked. They definitely are responding well to my increased attention.

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    • Sheryl, how fun that your houseplants and seedlings are happy to have you around. I started some basil and parsley inside the house. I haven’t noticed that they care about me at all. Too anxious to get outside and grow, I suppose. 😉

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  69. Am I too late for the Sweet Babboo reference? I will give myself a pretty pink tulip if necessary. Note that I have not peeked yet to see how many of your followers are of a certain age to recognize Sally’s pet name for Linus. My word but that was early in the strip but you must have the books. Like me.

    Tell you something? I have my second curbside pickup today. I only allowed one substitution and they managed to make an appropriate one. Heaven knows what they would have subbed for pork butt. I need that pork butt for my keto chili. Ah well, the rest can sit peacefully in the freezer.

    I have been reading a great many books. I find, however, that I cannot focus well on things online. I am only following 3 1/2 blogs and am not at all keeping up with them. And I’m not writing either. Nope, I’m reading books. And watching a little Philo which will go away on the 17th because it is a massive data hog.

    Glad to hear that you are keeping yourself entertained. My oregano, chives and thyme are doing well. The cilantro hasn’t sprouted and the basil won’t get planted until the others are larger because it grows like mad and takes over the grow light. I’m not sure the sunflowers will ever get planted. I think it’s time to build an ark.

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    • Zazzy, 🌷this is for you! I liked the Peanuts tv specials when I was a kid. I may have picked up Sweet Babboo from there.

      We are doing the pickup service at our Kroger and have had no problem with substitutions. We have, and this is our fault, ordered the wrong size of some items. Need some apple cider vinegar? We have a gallon of it!

      I’ve found myself more drawn to blogging of late. Books are beyond me at the moment. Just curious, how do you follow 1/2 a blog?

      Our herbs that are in pots on the deck are doing ok even though we’ve had nighttime temps in the 30s. I’ve covered them or brought them close beside the house. I’m planning on growing some sunflowers but will plant the seeds in the ground when our nights get warmer.

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      • Thank you for the tulip! I imagine you are correct and it was in the tv specials also. I have a couple of Peanut’s collections my mom bought me of the early years. Linus was Sally’s Sweet Babboo nearly as soon as she could talk as I recall. I still have those books somewhere.

        I have no idea what to do with a gallon of apple cider vinegar. Pickle something? Isn’t it supposed to be good for your hair?

        There is one blogger who is not writing so much anymore and has changed what she’s writing. With my limited focus, I don’t really pay much attention so I don’t really count it as truly following her blog. So I call it half a blog.

        It should be time to plant seeds in the ground here but it’s still cold. I, too, am waiting for the ground to warm up so we can plant these sunflowers while nature will still do most of my watering for me. I hear that we are supposed to get around 5 inches of rain this week. Good luck with the herbs. I’m trying to decide whether to plant rosemary or not, it’s not something I’ve used much.

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        • You’re right. I remember my mother using apple cider vinegar as a rinse on her hair. Might give it a try, considering how much of it we have.

          Ok, got it about half a blog. Makes sense to me. We don’t use much rosemary, but I like how it looks in a pot on the front stoop so I grow it. Not all my herbs make it into food.

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  70. I think most of us are frazzled at this stage of the lockdown, Ally. I’ve found immersing myself in a book helps distract me from the current state of affairs but I wish I could say the same for writing. When I’m not reading I’m attacking the build up of stuff in the garden, which came out of our house when renovating. I’m introvert and very much a home bird, so haven’t quite list it, yet. Can’t imagine how awful this must be for anyone who is extrovert, loves the company of others and never stays home.

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    • Jean, you raise a good point that I’ve been musing on too: how are the extroverts handling this? I’m introverted and have the luxury of spending most of my time at home now. I used to work in industries that expected me to be extroverted, and I can do that, but for people who are naturally extroverted this staying at home must be difficult. I mean if I’m getting antsy…

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      • My mother is in her mid eighties and plays bowls, is a member of at least two seniors clubs and regularly goes on coach trips with them. She’s been stuck in the house for months now but she’s doing well considering her personality. She has been taking a walk around the green in front of her house these past few weeks to stretch her legs, even though the government recommendation was for over seventies to cocoon. She’s such a rebel, lol.

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  71. I’m a longtime blogger too. I think I started doing this key-banging around 2005, maybe before that. I’m not too clear on that. Although I don’t keep an editorial calendar, I am more of a planner, so I write my posts ahead of time, edit they, find a picture to go with each one, then schedule it for the next in line.

    I am also one who lives by schedules. Most writing I do for my blog happens in the morning. Rarely, I’ll be found typing an article in the afternoon. I don’t have a green thumb, although it isn’t a brown one either, so the only time I’m in the garden is in the fall when I work with bulbs.

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    • G.J. Jolly, you’ve been around the blogosphere long enough to see the dramatic changes that I’ve seen. It’s not the easy little something-something that it was when we began. I like keeping a blog, but it is more work now than it was in the beginning. Still I hang on.

      I write many posts ahead of time, usually the day before but as for what they’ll be about, it’s anybody’s guess. Once upon a time I was more structured, but now I fly by the seat of my pants. The rest of my life is more scheduled so I figure here in my sweet little bloggy I can do what I want.

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  72. Isn’t it odd how hard it is to focus when we have so much time? Ideally, I guess, we’d all have just a little less time than we want. I have about 10 minutes worth of filling that I haven’t gotten done. For weeks.

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  73. In grazing a few of the comments here, I realize that one advantage for me this month is that I’m busier than ever with my job. No downtime. That seems horrible but the upside is not being faced with hours of “what to do?” I have plenty to do outside my job, but when I have hours of free time, I’m likely to find myself frittering those hours away on mindless things like picking up around the kitchen, tidying up after the cats, etc. Sure, these are things that need to be done, but while I fantasize about having hours to spend on my knitting or reading a book, I rarely do that when the time arrives. Well, one day a couple of weeks ago I listened to an audiobook and knitted for FIVE HOURS … I was in my happy place 😉 I started blogging in November 2007 as a way to encourage myself while I participated in NaNoWriMo and considered freelancing (hence, the moniker 1WriteWay). It was very lonely. WP was very simple, but I was (am) social awkward. I tried to write only about writerly things and eventually got tired of the sound of my own typing. I have a gap of three years between blog posts–January 2010 to February 2013. I’m glad I never gave up my blog. WP was a different animal when I decided to give blogging another go. Kind of like a cat … it can be sweet and cuddly and then hurl a hairball 😉

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    • Marie, if you’ve been busy you probably have missed the opportunity to stare at the walls and try to decide what to do next! Usually I’m good at entertaining myself, but when I wrote this I was feeling silly about how I couldn’t find a thing to do. Or a thing to do that seemed worth doing.

      Your happy place sounds lovely to me. I’m glad you got there for a while, a long while really. Five hours doing something you like is perfect. I hope the opportunity to do that again happens again for you.

      I’ve never tried to do NaNoWriMo although I used to do NaBloPoMo [National Blog Post Month] when it was an annual thing. From that daily writing experience I ended up in the same place as you did: “tired of the sound of my own typing.” I’ve come to realize that if you try to keep your blog according to someone else’s vision of how-to blog, then it’ll overwhelm you. Of course it took me years to figure that out. 🙄

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