Well here we are, the entire world is in the midst of a pandemic. Pretty scary stuff! Everyone needs to evaluate what to do for themselves but the main thing we are hearing from experts is that if the virus is spreading in the community (meaning not just from returning travelers) that reducing your contact with others and stringent hand washing protocols are the way to go. Social distancing is key to reducing the spread of this awful virus.
There are currently two people identified with the virus in Jalisco, both returned travelers to Guadalajara. Community spread has not started – as far as we know – although there is little testing going on. Experts believe community spread will begin here towards the end of March. Public schools in Mexico will be closed from March 20 to April 20.
Since we are older and have a few health issues, here’s what we’re doing right now.
We are staying home as much as possible. We aren’t going to the gym or out to eat. When we need groceries we visit the store at off hours and wash thoroughly when we get home.
We are doing our best to keep our distance from others. We are not going to trivia, concerts or plays for the time being.
We bought extra of our regular medications so that we have enough for a month ahead. We have stocked up a bit at the store, but there’s no need to buy insane amounts of toilet paper here!
The main thing we’re doing right now is thinking through all the changes we’ll need to make as things get more restrictive. This is going to be a bit of a long haul so planning and putting ourselves in the right mental attitude is key. For me, that means thinking of all the things I have deferred doing or learning and taking advantage of this time as an opportunity. Thank goodness for the internet, right?
I hope that all of you reading this are well and stay well through the challenges ahead. Please take care and wash your hands!
The picture at the top? Henry keeping me company as I start a new knitting project.
Judith Bond
March 15, 2020Nancy, you are doing all the right things. We are doing much the same. There are 63 cases in Toronto. It is not known if community spread has started yet. Here’s to you and Paul staying safe and in good health.
Anne
March 15, 2020Glad to hear you two are using a lot of caution. Stay safe and I am sure there will be plenty for your productive minds to tackle!
Nancy
March 15, 2020Hi Anne, Yes, I have a list of fun stuff to do a mile long, my new subscription to the Met Online, lots of books, knitting, sewing, cooking, gardening… the time will fly I am sure. Sending love amiga
Nancy
March 15, 2020Hi Judith, These are scary times, staying in is so much easier for those of us who are retired, I am thankful I am not juggling a job, kids, lack of money, etc like some are. Please stay safe – love to you and Ken. xoxo
jennifer rose
March 15, 2020Kudos to you and Paul for doing the right thing — unlike some gringos who think that their nationality or age gives them special privilege.
Nancy
March 15, 2020Hi Jennifer, It seems a no-brainer to me, some people are just idiots. The problem is how many idiots there are! Please stay well amiga.
Anne
March 15, 2020Who knew Washington State would be the epicentre of this virus in the US?? We are being super cautious and I too have been thinking of what I should or could do under constrained circumstances. I am going to go back to painting.
Stay safe both of you and I am sure the sunshine will help!
Nancy
March 15, 2020Hi Anne, I know, it’s crazy, isn’t it? My granddaughter works in Seattle and grandson is at the UW so of course I have been all over the news. Please you and Peter take care and stay healthy. xoxo
Wendy Kain
March 15, 2020Sensible Nancy. I’m amazed at the number of people who think social distancing isn’t necessary for them until the numbers are high. I’m sure you two will be fine and will come away from it with new skills learned during your at home time. And what about the Italian action of singing out the window at neighbours. Dare you to do Nussen Dorma!
Nancy
March 15, 2020Hi Wendy, It isn’t the easiest thing to stay home so much but we all have plenty to keep us busy and it is for the good of all. I think the singing was wonderful, wasn’t it? People can be so wonderful sometimes. Trying to focus on that 🙂 Miss you sweetie. xoxo
Kim G
April 5, 2020In another month or so, I believe the virus will be a footnote to the evolving financial crisis. Something which everyone seems to have overlooked is the fact that money is something of an artifact of the economy. What really counts is people going out creating and exchanging goods and services. Money only facilitates that.
With folks unable to work, the government can print all the money they want, but it won’t change the lack of goods and services.
This is going to be the next really big problem.
Buckle up.
Kim G
Boston, MA
Where health measures have gone from the sensible to the ridiculous.
Nancy
April 6, 2020Wow! You’re a blast from the past! Haven’t heard anything from you in more than a year I imagine. Thanks for your comment, like we all needed something else to worry about of course. (That was said in a laughing voice) Take care, hope you and your mother are well.
Kim G
April 6, 2020Hola Nancy,
Thanks. Yes, aside from being shut in, I’m fine. And my mother is doing well. I wish I could travel to Mexico now that the country is having a countrywide 30% off sale, but alas, public health trumps bargain hunting. Saludos to Paul.
Kim