There was some engagement initially as people acclimated to the pandemic: working from home, no school, avoiding people.  By the second week, most had settled into a degree and were adjusting to being together at home, declaring space and responsibilities.  Then the stores changed hours.  Then masks were required.  Gloves were advised.  Now the feelings were of irritation and annoyance.  Some anxiety began to surface.  By the sixth week, there was apathy and lethargy.  Initially, people entertained themselves at home by cleaning, watching Netflix, playing video games, and Zoom or Facetime with friends and family.  Now, most things were boring.

Interested in next week?

My kids rented a house by Russian River for the whole family to spend three days. It was a birthday gift for me. They arranged the meals. They brought games and movies to watch. There was a hot tub. We went to Armstrong Woods for a picnic and walk. We talked. I had the best time. I truly like all of them. I truly love all of them. As I left to drive home, Ari said, “See you here next year.”

I only wish.

My CPA asked me if I was able to take my tax form off my investment site and PDF it to him instead of copying 20 pages and mailing it with the rest of my stuff. I did it. I repeat, I did it. I asked him to confirm that he had received it. He sent an email within minutes saying, “Good girl.” I wrote back, “WOMAN.”

Neither is shocking.

My family rented a house for us all to stay for a weekend as a birthday gift for me.  Isaac asked me to bring my Monopoly game.  I said I would.  When I told Erik, he said they have Monopoly in Spanish.  We both agreed that we would need Isaac or Ari to translate for us if we played in Spanish.  We both agreed the better choice is to play in English. 

I have played Monopoly with them many times. 

While with a client, the doorbell rang.  A package had been left on the porch and the UPS delivery truck was leaving.  The address was correct.  The person it was sent to does not live in my home.  I returned it the next day to the UPS main facility in the area.  Two days later, the doorbell rang.  It was a client holding a box that had just been delivered.  Wrong name again.  This time I caught the truck and gave the box back. I found another one on my porch one day and took it to Target, the store from which all three packages came.  I asked them to research who the package was going to and find the right address.

I remain optimistic. 

It is a stressful time.  People feel scared and uncertain.  We are confined.  Our patterns and rituals have changed.  Because we are told to stay in our homes, many are around people and family members who can be stressful.  Children are at home.  Parents are working from home.  I am hearing about interactions that are conflictual.  Please reach out for help.  Many of us are available by phone. I do phone appointments all day.  If you feel abused or likely to abuse, call 800-799-7233.  If you feel suicidal, call 800-273-8255. 

Please take care of yourselves. 

I did not watch the Superbowl.  I was aware the 49ers were playing.  I did not watch the half time.  I was aware Jennifer Lopez was co-starring.  I had my friend Doug install a new printer and we had dinner. 

We each have our priorities. 

This is an uncomfortable and awkward time for most people.  It is also a time to have support and contact.  I am available to have clients schedule time for a phone appointment.  Please feels free to do so.  510-995-8167 

I woke up at 7:45 am.  I had been up a few times, but fell back to sleep.  It has been years since I slept so late.  After getting coffee and making the bed, I actually contemplated staying in my pajamas all day.  The day seemed so much shorter than usual, I wasn’t sure it was worth getting dressed.  Then I remembered one ingredient I needed for a recipe I wanted to make that day.

I decided not to wear pajamas to the supermarket.

I took my car to the dealership because a piece fell of, which I discovered was called the fog cover.  Fortunately, it was in stock and the man told me it would cost “twenty-one thirty with tax.”  I have dealt with cars forever, so I anticipated paying a fortune.  The piece was plastic, so I was surprised it cost as much as he quoted.  He put on the part and took my charge card.  When I got the receipt, it was for $21.30.  I thought it was going to cost me $2130.

I am happy.