Back to Near Normal

Our boil water notice was rescinded about noon last Tuesday, Feb. 23. So, we are just about back to our pandemic normal. I hope one day to be back to pre-pandemic normal, but I'm not convinced that will ever happen in my lifetime, at least for me. I think I'll always tense up a bit if strangers get too close to me. 

Donna and I have enjoyed sitting on our back patio several days this past week. On most days, the highs have reached between 65 and 75 or so. We've really enjoyed that after the arctic conditions we suffered the prior week. I've been able to walk several days this past week as well, and even old Donna has gotten in a few miles. It's always nice to get out.

We went to Sam's Wholesale during senior time last Tuesday morning. Since the pandemic began, I have felt more comfortable in that store than any other. The aisles are wide, and I can see employees constantly cleaning everything, from carts to floors to check-out counters.

Our COVID numbers are really looking good right now. Daily reports have new cases hovering about 20 or less, while there are only about 15 to 20 people currently in the hospital for COVID. Our death count is now at 301. 

Went for another walk just after lunch one day last week. Upon returning, I found Dynamite Donna on a "spring cleaning" tear. Funny how good weather affects different people. I helped her with some of the windows, then went out to clean all of our water cans to get ready for the next emergency. We're busy re-evaluating our current state of emergency preparedness. Over the next few weeks, we'll upgrade some items and add a few things here and there. Tornado season is just around the corner, after all, and we never know what that will bring.

"The Old Candy Store". I really enjoyed working on this puzzle.

Courtney, Michael, and Xander have now had their second COVID shots, so we hope to get to see them before too much longer. It has been just over a year since we had a real visit with them. Courtney did come to town a few months ago to pick up some things she was unable to get in her neck of the woods, but the visit was short and socially distanced. 

We sat out on the patio a couple of days ago. The air force base often does training maneuvers in the skies over our area, so we watched them zoom through the skies, sometimes rather low over our house.  

Underside of plane that had just passed over us.

Side view of plane passing nearby.