A day in my new life

[Bhigdog]

As this new peril unfolds we find ourselves in a new normal. We are in a new era of more or less isolation. Some are relatively free to move about others are subject to isolation of a trying degree.

Isolation is a very serious stress and, in and of itself, a health hazard.

This forum, although dedicated to old cars and old farts, is a conduit of connection that can ease the feeling of isolation.

I'd like to start this thread with a little about myself and my last few days. I'll include a few car bits to conform to the "cars only" dictate.

I'm hoping that a bit of chit chat will help ease us through this debacle.

Hopefully the powers that be realize that extraordinary circumstances demand extraordinary leeway.

Living in a semi rural area I'm free to move about. Wednesday I drove into town to the NAPA store, for new shocks for my tow vehicle. I noticed only one person wearing a mask. Pretty much business as usual.

Yesterday I put the 39 PU on the lift, checked all the fluids and  re-greased the wheel bearings.

We needed a few things from the grocery and the "Giant" super market two towns over says they are open from 0600 to 0700 for old farts only. So I thought, over my wife's objections, to go shopping. Really needed to get out and about. Pretty bad when you look forward to grocery shopping.

Kind of surreal.

I have a few N95 masks so I wore one  along with nitrile gloves.

About maybe 15% of the shoppers were masked and the feeling of dorkey-ness soon wore off. I did notice that the masked shoppers were checking out the other shopper's masks. Are flu masks a new fashion statement? Was there a "my mask is better than your P.O.S." thing going on?   Bizarre.

Some shelves looked picked over but there actually was some toilet paper. The good stuff. I was tempted but since I have enough for now at home I left it for others.

None of the store employees were masked or gloved. Strange.

There were roaming store  employees enforcing the social distance mandate in no uncertain terms. Seemed strange to be yelled at by a cashier. Is this the new normal?

Got home by 0800 and decided to try making bagels. The dough is rising until tomorrow. Onion and garlic.

So that's my new life. Hope yours is going well.

Stay healthy............Bob

 

Edited April 3, 2020 by Bhigdog (see edit history)

[60FlatTop]

We needed a gallon of milk so I got my '94 Impala SS out and drove up to the convenient store. The guy ahead of me was wearing a small face mask. He bought two cartons of cigarettes and beer.

Its nice to see someone looking out for the other guy.

Edited April 3, 2020 by 60FlatTop (see edit history)

[Marty Roth]

Wednesday morning - doing mechanical "stuff" - sliced my thumb really deep on the side right up to the nail, and couldn't stop the bleeding except with constant pressure. Certainly NOT heading to the Emergency Room with folks actually dying in that hospital from CoVid-19.

Phoned the long-time General Practitioner who now serves only SENIORS )lucky me?) - explained situation, and drove there while holding pressure on thumb - rolled a stop sign in a relatively deserted area, and got pulled over almost immediately, but deputy understood the situation and gave me a partial escort. More parking spots at the Jen-Care facility than I could imagine - folks are staying away in droves. Elevator to top floor, and greeted by two nurses who took my temp, Blood Pressure, asked many questions, and seemed like they would use everything up to but excluding a Proctoscope - finally let me in just as my doctor was phoning back to see if I were lost and senility was setting in. Everyone there wore a mask, but then so does the bank teller behind the drive-up window.

 

Following more tests (thankfully still no procto exam) he stated that he hadn't done any suturing for several decades - that is what they send patients to the Emergency Room for - but of course he didn't want me to go there under the current situation. Searching several of the surrounding offices, they found the suture kits, but one critical item was missing which would allow him to tie off the stitches - SO HE, BEING A "CAR GUY" IMPROVISED !!  A brilliant job of stitching up my thumb while sharing stories about his old pickup truck, and laughing his A$$ off at my lack of mechanical screw-up, stopping the blood flow, a cute young nurse wrapping the injury to cartoonish proportions, just what I get when I deserve sympathy? Soon I'll be able to grip a wrench, screwdriver, other dangerous implements known to car folk and those also using the wrong tool for the wrong job. 

 

Thursday I learn how difficult it is to try working on the old cars with my immobile thumb. Every wrench I drop automatically goes to a relatively inaccessible location where I haven't yet detailed away the grease, or becomes reachable only by the hand with the now-non-opposable thumb - my progress slows dramatically, but I soldier on - then decide it is time for an adult refreshment, only to realize that the Cephalexin 500 Mg capsules would have their effectiveness deminished - which do I want more? Healing or soothing? Some things must wait !

 

Friday morning - don my mask and nitrile gloves for the grocery run, only to find that the local store has run out of every single item I wanted for Dale and the kids, but it is almost time to get her to the Quest Lab for her blood work - so I get home, get her into the Suburban, and load her disinfected walker - it has a seat built in so she doesn't need to contact any foreign surfaces. Gloved and masked, I hit another (better) grocery which has good stock on most of our items, and then with new mask and gloves we go straight to the lab for her vampire treatment, and then straight up the elevator to social distance in the Oncologist's waiting area. Only patients are now allowed - partners are advised to wait in the hall or their car. Fortunately, the receptionist is the secretary, and wife of the president of one of our local AACA Regions, and I'm allowed to accompany her into the exam room to share comments and plan treatment. Leaving the medical complex, we phone ahead and arrange curbside delivery of items ordered for next week's use - one of Dale's former students owns this business and she is revered, loved, and respected - especially in retirement. We drop off food items in daughter's Tahoe and wave at a social distance - same for son just an hour later.

 

Most folks I see while outside are masked - a few are gloved - considerate of others, as well as selves and family - good to see !

 

 The New Orleans area now has 3,476 Confirmed Cases, up 328 since yesterday. Our death rate per-capita is highest in the nation - likely as a result of crowds from cruise ships and world-wide visitors during Mardi Gras - people shoulder to shoulder, six-deep, lining the many parade routes and the French Quarter during the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, Feb 25th - the week leading to our AACA Winter Nationals in Miami.

 

Life is changed. We're feeling well, feeling old but generally ok, and never would have expected to surrounding to be this way. Many, but surely not all are even driving in a courteous manner  - no symptoms but have to return to Jen-Care Monday for suture extraction. Reminds me of the first AACA Vintage Tour - 1997 Windber/Johnstown, PA - 3rd day out and visiting Lake Raystown Resort -  Fran (Mrs. Joe) Vicini ( my favorite nurse) removed the stitches from my eyebrow, eyelid, forehead area. I had walked into my shed and straight into some 1934 Buick steering apparatus, requiring ten (?) stitches as I left town for the tour with a short visit to the local ER. What is it with old cars and stitches - and I cold show you several more across the artery in my forearm from the '52 Chevy master cylinder R&R late one evening on the garage floor (how did that blood get on the ceiling?)

 

Her Chemo Infusion is scheduled for this coming Tuesday, so masking and gloved, we'll head out again to face the new reality,

but we have food, medical necessities, and TP - so we're good for now.

 

Y'all stay safe,

Stay Healthy,

Plan for upcoming AACA tours and nationals,

Tinker with an old car - or an old friend

 

Marty

[keiser31]

No excitement here, lucky for us. It finally got warm enough to hang out in the garage for a bit. Went to the post office and stood behind a plastic barrier and about 6 feet away from the counter. Our new outside look....

[wayne sheldon]

This whole mask thing has my dander up! Our out-of-the-way county with only a couple dozen known cases (can't believe most of the numbers they throw around anyway) is threatening to REQUIRE - ALL -people to wear masks when going out to any store or other necessary trip!

 

Where am I supposed to GET a mask?

 

Bad enough our (I really do not want to claim them!) politicians for the past thirty years have sent most of our manufacturing overseas. To make it worse, NO corporation wants to actually STOCK supplies unless the are sure they can sell them within a few weeks. So there were no warehouses full of anything we suddenly need.

 

So the politicians want us to wear masks we can't manufacture, can't import, and can't buy.

 

No wonder I can't believe them.

 

I am glad I have a couple old painting masks still. They are so old, the elastic rotted off. But I think I can rig something up.

[Gunsmoke]

Marty said " The New Orleans area now has 3,476 Confirmed Cases, up 328 since yesterday. Our death rate per-capita is highest in the nation - likely as a result of crowds from cruise ships and world-wide visitors during Mardi Gras - people shoulder to shoulder, six-deep, lining the many parade routes and the French Quarter during the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, Feb 25th - the week leading to our AACA Winter Nationals in Miami.

 

Not sure I agree Marty,. The State's COVID19 death rate is highest likely because the State Governemnt allowed this event to happen on Feb 25th in the first place, in spite of all the warnings beginning in early January from epidemic experts at CDC on the serious nature of COVID19, it being very contagious and deadly, and early advice on avoiding recent arrivals, social distancing, avoiding large crowds, hand washing,  etc, etc. The Mardi Gras events should have been cancelled but as I see it, the elected officials decided to roll the dice. Awful leadership statewide, and the Feds were silent. 

 

Sometimes there is an awfully dear price to pay for the almighty dollar. I see 8 states are still sitting on their asses as the national death toll passes 7000, but do note Alabama and Missouri got on board today.  

[TerryB]

PA has now said everyone going out needs a mask.   Wife is trying to make something based on a Facebook how to video.  It’s not looking too good for that exercise.  Since I am the at risk guy, no going anywhere for me (as usual).  Yesterday I rewired a floor lamp for the boss, she had been asking me to that for a long time.  You have to be creative when your access to things and your angle of attack is limited.  I got it done and now I am a hero or at least I hope so.  So here is picture of one legged paraplegic getting the job done.  If you think a banged up thumb makes this tough, try this method of operation.  Stay safe my friends and enjoy what blessings you have.

[trimacar]

6 minutes ago, Gunsmoke said:

Marty said " The New Orleans area now has 3,476 Confirmed Cases, up 328 since yesterday. Our death rate per-capita is highest in the nation - likely as a result of crowds from cruise ships and world-wide visitors during Mardi Gras - people shoulder to shoulder, six-deep, lining the many parade routes and the French Quarter during the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, Feb 25th - the week leading to our AACA Winter Nationals in Miami.

 

Not sure I agree Marty,. The State's COVID19 death rate is highest likely because the State Governemnt allowed this event to happen on Feb 25th in the first place, in spite of all the warnings beginning in early January from epidemic experts at CDC on the serious nature of COVID19, it being very contagious and deadly, and early advice on avoiding recent arrivals, social distancing, avoiding large crowds, hand washing,  etc, etc. The Mardi Gras events should have been cancelled but as I see it, the elected officials decided to roll the dice. Awful leadership statewide, and the Feds were silent. 

 

Sometimes there is an awfully dear price to pay for the almighty dollar. I see 8 states are still sitting on their asses as the national death toll passes 7000, but do note Alabama and Missouri got on board today.  

Actually, it’s said the high death rate in Nawlins is due to the love of food in New Orleans, the city has abnormally high numbers when it comes to obesity, blood pressure, and so forth, none of which helps one survive.....

[TerryB]

Marty,  all my best wishes to you and your wife as you work through her treatments.  I’m rooting for her and you!

 

And all the best to ALL of you as you deal with the invisible menace.

Edited April 4, 2020 by TerryB (see edit history)

[trimacar]

I think it’s interesting how politicians are blamed for the virus.

 

Lets say that February 1st of this year, governments had told people to stay home, no dining in restaurants, six feet separation, and so forth 

 

Who would have obeyed?  Virtually nobody.

 

It’s only when things get serious that a certain number of people will obey.  Even now, there are people who don’t care.

 

I went to pick up a couple bags of salt for my softener today, purposely went to a place with salt palletized under an awning, so I could back up and load.  As I was opening doors, a store employee came up right behind me and grabbed a bag of salt.  I literally jumped back, saying thanks, I want to load it myself   He glared at me, THREW the bag back on the stack, and walked away saying “you can do WHAT  you want to....”

 

A LOT of people still don’t get it.....

Edited April 4, 2020 by DAVE A
inappropriate language (see edit history)

[FLYER15015]

Quote

3 minutes ago, trimacar said:

He glared at me, THREW the bag back on the stack, and walked away saying “you can do WHAT the SHIT you want to....

 

 Wouldn't his Grandmother be proud !!!

 

Here in Colorado our "three dollar bill" governor just issued a mask requirement for outside excursions.

I'm waiting for mine to arrive................

Meanwhile I'll just keep polishing my wiper motors on the Chrysler.

 

Mike in Colorado

[charlier]

Marty, Best Wishes to you and your wife as well.

Where is the photo of you with a big smile and an even BIGGER "Thumbs Up"?  😁 

[SC38dls]

Marty. We are rooting for both you and your wife to get better soon. 
But remember it didn’t happen unless there are pictures. So we need to see the 👍. Or it’s just a story. 
 

As far as the day went, I feel like I’m a teenager all over again. This new phenomenon is due to spending the day surfing the internet for hours trying to find something interesting!  At least that’s what I’ve been told young people do all day. 
Have fun

Stay safe, healthy and maintain social distancing 

Dave s 

[Gunsmoke]

Trimacar said: Actually, it’s said the high death rate in Nawlins is due to the love of food in New Orleans, the city has abnormally high numbers when it comes to obesity, blood pressure, and so forth, none of which helps one survive.....

 

So let me see fellows, if the government leadership knew (in addition to everything else mentioned above) that a high number/percentage of their dear citizens were very vulnerable if they caught the flu due to underlying health problems/pre-conditions, then you would think (at least I would), that that would be a major reason to act swiftly, even more swiftly than other states, and cancel/postpone the Mardi-Gras. Am I missing something. No excuses any more. At some point someone has to be held accountable.

 

 

[Bhigdog]

When I started this thread it was with the thought that maybe we could just chat about how we are all doing and kind of be a mutual support group. Not that we need support, being as how we are all so macho and pillars of masculine survivability. I say that with tongue in cheek knowing full well that the females here are far more capable then us weenies.

My point is that I'm hoping politics, cause and effect, and all the other BS that is just opinion is left out of the thread.

That said.......So how the Hell is everyone doing?

Are you stuck inside? Can you take a walk? Take the car out for a spin? Is NAPA open? Is the dog tired of you yet? The wife? What do see when you do venture out. What is going on in your area.

Tired of chasing the wife around? Tired of her chasing you?

Got enough beer? Cigars? Ammo? TP?........................Bob

Edited April 4, 2020 by Bhigdog (see edit history)

[wayne sheldon]

Bhigdog, I plead guilty. I do like your intention the best. 

I have been going outside doing some long put-off minor repairs to the house. Did some minor roof patching a couple weeks ago. Made a nice repair to a dry-rotted end of a beam over the deck last week. Yesterday I removed a dry-rotted fascia board on the end of the roof (what a mess!). Today, I replaced it with a new section scabbed into place. Tomorrow I hope to "pretty it up". Paint will depend on the weather, a storm is due in.

Otherwise, for me, it has mostly been life as usual.

Hopefully, I will get back to work on the 1915 T runabout soon. Unfortunately, for me, wanting to get back to work on it is part of "usual" lately.

 

Marty, Go easy on that thumb! It sounds like a nasty cut. You do not want it to heal badly.

 

TerryB, Hang in there! Keep doing what you can and making the most you can of your time.

[Terry Bond]

15 minutes ago, Bhigdog said:

When I started this thread it was with the thought that maybe we could just chat about how we are all doing and kind of be a mutual support group. Not that we need support, being as how we are all so macho and pillars of masculine survivability. I say that with tongue in cheek knowing full well that the females here are far more capable then us weenies.

My point is that I'm hoping politics, cause and effect, and all the other BS that is just opinion is left out of the thread.

That said.......So how the Hell is everyone doing?

Are you stuck inside? Can you take a walk? Take the car out for a spin? Is NAPA open? Is the dog tired of you yet? The wife? What do see when you do venture out. What is going on in your area.

Tired of chasing the wife around? Tired of her chasing you?

Got enough beer? Cigars? Ammo? TP?........................Bob

We're fine here Bob.  Thumbs up to Marty!!!!  Nice day today.  Been helping neighbors split firewood, about one more afternoon will get it done.  They had a biiiiiigggg tree dropped and it's now been sliced and diced (like Marty's thumb I guess).  Yard is looking pretty good, things greening up nicely.  We ordered some stuff from the local grocery store on line and our designated time to pick up stuff is on Sunday.  Now that's a process we just might get used to!

Finished working on an MG transmission, polished a couple of brass lamps, working on new shelves in the shed (no ladders involved, and keeping my thumb(s) outa the way!).  Glad we live on a nice narrow dead-end street.  There isn't much traffic to begin with and even less now.  It's  a great place to walk, ride the bikes, or let the dog walk us.  No masks involved.  When we walk, it's great to see neighbors out working in gardens, kids playing in their yards, everyone stops what they are doing waves, and asks "how ya doin? - do ya need anything?"  Gosh, I've heard that's the way it used to be a long time ago.   

Terry

[padgett]

Been wondering about a folded blue paper shop towel  Should provide "enough" filtration since not aiborne. Also blue nitrile gloves, safety glasses, and a ball cap are my new fashion  statement.

 

Spent the day setting up Ubuntu and a Big Blue Button server. Works with any browser and can be made very secure. Suspect there will be a need. Particularly if Zoom implodes.

[Tom M]

Me, I am doing well. I visit my 88 year old stepfather everyday to make sure his meds are filled, bring him food and just to be there with him.

He lives it is an independent living facility and they are on lock down. I have been designated as his only visitor/care giver at this time.

 

Home life well I have been working from home since March 17 but I still follow my normal routine. Get up at 5:15 have my 2 cups of coffee, Apple Cider Vinegar drink, mess around a little for about 20 minutes which is my normal time to drive into work and then login into my work computer. I do all this so I don't break my normal routine since I know this will be over soon. Hopefully

 

I sure do thou do get the itch now that I am working from home to go out to the garage get my 1931 Packard up and running (which has not been out of the garage for almost 3 years now) and go out for a long drive like I used to do with my good old pup Harley. He loved going for rides.

 

Another itch is, I had purchased a 1969 GTO back in November but at the moment I have it stored out in Indiana. Sure wish now I had it back here back in the Chicago burbs to work on it and also to get out and just drive wherever it takes me.

 

To add with the Gyms closed down I do sneak in a lite workout at home during the day (shhhh don't let he boss know) and do get out for a walk after work.

Sure dose help clear the mind and to get out to get some fresh air.

 

Edited April 4, 2020 by Packin31 (see edit history)

[keithb7]

New life? I work from home as best I can. I still have a job and I actually get paid, so I am grateful for that. I spend my after-work hours mostly working on my old cars in the garage. My wife and I go for walks in our rural area. She hits the grocery store about every 7 days or so. I have not been there. I have however been to my local auto parts store about 1-2 per week. Straight in and out and back home. I sometimes hit drive thru for a coffee to go. I might be hanging on to that as it's the one thing that sorta feels like life before Covdi-19.

 

I read a fair amount. I find myself quite interested in old technical books on automobile engineering. A 7 book set of Automobile Engineering Society from 1931. Dykes Auto Encyclopedia from about 1942. I do quite enjoy them. The books get my brain thinking and makes me a better troubleshooter I think. I find myself looking at, and thinking about the car systems, parts, problems and custom solutions, in a different way I think.

 

I'll help Momma with meal prep when she lets me. I generally get to peel potatoes or grate cheese. Otherwise I am sent out of the kitchen. Pretty quiet. Our sons have moved on to carve their own life out of this world. We normally see them a few times a week. However with Covid we have not. We're keeping our distance so we miss them. We'll be fine.  My wife and I get a long and are enjoying each others company. 

 

I can't really say what going on around here. I have not seen much of my town or neighbours in the past 3 weeks. We get our news and internet updates so I guess, we have what we need.

[Isaiah]

this is a poly to crash the economy in the U.S.A

 the kids that  or were graduating this year  wont get a diploma..

[dei]

Picked up a job normally done on the afternoon shift in the past that wanted me to clean again this spring. I was surprised but found out the evening has only 10 people in what was occupied by 300 and the 4 professional cleaning staff do a deep cleaning every night so,  for the past three nights will be bringing in some money... (self employment in play)

That has broken up some boredom.

Then today went to my other property to save a complaint from my neighbour which I found on April Fools Day.

 

That was a fun filled 5 hours.

 

But... in all this we received some great news, and it was no joke.

Come this Fall we are going to be Grandparents!

 

Now I'm really starting to feel old...

[mike6024]

More time for cooking. Cooked an 8 pound chicken in a pot, with cabbage, collard greens, red potatoes, garlic, soy sauce, Vietnamese fish sauce, Tabasco. This was the result. Also there is Kale which was sauted in a pan  in olive oil with garlic, and also some broccoli.

 

 

[Billy Kingsley]

This isn't all that different from my normal life. Monday through Friday is the exact same for me as it's been since I was a teenager. The weekends my brother and I used to go do stuff, museums mostly. But they are all closed.  I don't have anything to look forward to right now. Car shows don't start here until May but I know they won't be going on. Shows as late as September are cancelled already. 

 

When this ends... hopefully soon, but probably not with how many people think it's made up....my daily life is still going to be the exact same. Not really a fun life but that's the cards I've been dealt. I'll deal with it like I always have. But at least then I'll have something to look forward to again. 

 

I have not been further than my yard since attending my model club meetings for March. Probably won't any time soon since there's nowhere to go and my family members take care of shopping. Luckily for me, I'm a collector of many things and even with unlimited time I still feel like I'm constantly trying to play catch up. I have enough stuff to do that I won't run out any time soon.

 

What I am really upset about is that my brother and I were going to take our mom to Golden Corral the weekend everything got closed, for her birthday dinner. 

[hidden_hunter]

We've switched to getting most stuff delivered now to avoid going to the shops to lower our risk - not in any high risk category but don't especially want to chance it plus we can support small businesses rather than the local big boxes

 

Despite all the local press complaining, we're comparatively doing really well compared to most western governments but of course no time to be complacent. My work even gave us extra money each week to help cover the increased home expenses when you work from home (though I think I'm ahead anyway from lack of coffees out) 

 

Sadly my Cadillac isn't parked where I live so I can't even work on that in my spare time, and we'd just taken delivery of a new Golf R station wagon (which is also loads of fun) but has done less than 250 miles in the last month.... 

 

The way I figure it as well, is if the hardest thing I have to do for my country is stay home I really can't complain - it's not like I'm being shipped off to Europe to be shot at....

Edited April 4, 2020 by hidden_hunter (see edit history)

[Taylormade]

My life has changed very little.  I’m semi-retired and for the last five years my time was spent doing computer graphics and illustration in my home office or out in the garage working on my 32 Dodge Brothers sedan.  We live in a small town in the middle of nowhere, have plenty of toilet paper at the local grocery store and count our blessings.  Living in the boonies has certain advantages you don’t appreciate until something like this happens.

[Ron Green]

Keeping busy catching up on projects as the list was long. Writing a few "looking back in time of the history and club" articles based on 60's / 70's / 80's old newsletters for the Amphicar clubs newsletter. Editors are always looking for articles. Good time to help them out. Brakes & rotors for 05 Bonneville, vette needs a throw-out bearing, took and emailed a bunch of engine compartment picture's of my 55 and sent them to a guy restoring a safari. Amphicar, trailer and tow vehicles need cleaned from our Florida swim in which was cut short due to the virus. Appears that the Citicar will be sold to the person I bought it from years ago go figure. Lots going on. Wife is in the house making us masks which should prove interesting.

[Dosmo]

I watched the make-your-own-mask video Ben P. posted - thought that was a pretty good idea.  Then, I got a pair of my own underwear to give it a try.  Unfortunately, I'm a pretty good-sized round-bodied type of guy.  When I put my head through the leg of my shorts, it fell down around my neck because it's WAY too big.

 

It will probably work okay if your body configuration is normal in size.  If you're not, you're probably out of luck.  The good thing is, my wife got a huge kick out of it.

[J.H.Boland]

Social isolation isn't a new concept for me. My wife and I live in the country, with no really close neighbors,yet within 5 miles of small towns and less than 15 miles from 3 larger centers.

All my old cars are ready to roll,but there's no place to go ! Our club,the Historical Automobile Society of Canada, is considering writing this year's activities off and starting fresh next year.

There's still yard work to do. I've rolled the lawn twice and the way it's greening up I'll soon be cutting it.

Had a real strong wind last Sunday that blew a big spruce tree onto my garage roof. Amazingly there was no damage,as the multiple branches spread the weight of the tree around.I contracted a local tree removal guy to deal with it

Our Ontario premier gave us the bad news yesterday. This virus could continue to affect us for the next couple of years. The death toll will depend dramatically on how seriously we take the physical distancing and isolation measures prescribed .

Stay safe but stay connected.

Jim

[Bhigdog]

12 minutes ago, Dosmo said:

I watched the make-your-own-mask video Ben P. posted - thought that was a pretty good idea.  Then, I got a pair of my own underwear to give it a try.  Unfortunately, I'm a pretty good-sized round-bodied type of guy.  When I put my head through the leg of my shorts, it fell down around my neck because it's WAY too big.

 

It will probably work okay if your body configuration is normal in size.  If you're not, you're probably out of luck.  The good thing is, my wife got a huge kick out of it.

 

Just remember ...........brown side OUT.........😉...........Bob

[kuhner]

In my county in Ohio we have just had our first case, I still go to the parts store and hardware a couple times a week. I am retired and my wife still works so my routine has changed little.  I take care of the house, cook and mess around with my cars. 
I do miss my daily trip to the VFW for a couple beers with friends but its saving me some money.

It bothers me that the wife and her daughter are both nurses. They are both very good at what they do and take every precaution. The wife usually removes her shoes in the garage, strips as she passes the laundry room, and on to the shower in the basement. 

[Bhigdog]

Got the dough rolled into bagel shaped objects and in the oven. Not quite as easy to make bagels as it sounds. I'm pretty much covered in flour, dough stuck to my shirt and pants. My "bagels" look more square than those that you see in the deli. Oh well, the proof will be in the eating.

Could be worse. I just talked to a friend who lives in the heart of NYC. He's sequestered in his "apartment" that probably started life as a closet.

He just found out he has bed bugs.

At least he won't be alone....😀........Bob

[Marty Roth]

15 hours ago, Gunsmoke said:

Marty said " The New Orleans area now has 3,476 Confirmed Cases, up 328 since yesterday. Our death rate per-capita is highest in the nation - likely as a result of crowds from cruise ships and world-wide visitors during Mardi Gras - people shoulder to shoulder, six-deep, lining the many parade routes and the French Quarter during the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, Feb 25th - the week leading to our AACA Winter Nationals in Miami.

 

Not sure I agree Marty,. The State's COVID19 death rate is highest likely because the State Governemnt allowed this event to happen on Feb 25th in the first place, in spite of all the warnings beginning in early January from epidemic experts at CDC on the serious nature of COVID19, it being very contagious and deadly, and early advice on avoiding recent arrivals, social distancing, avoiding large crowds, hand washing,  etc, etc. The Mardi Gras events should have been cancelled but as I see it, the elected officials decided to roll the dice. Awful leadership statewide, and the Feds were silent. 

 

Sometimes there is an awfully dear price to pay for the almighty dollar. I see 8 states are still sitting on their asses as the national death toll passes 7000, but do note Alabama and Missouri got on board today.  

 

12 hours ago, Gunsmoke said:

Trimacar said: Actually, it’s said the high death rate in Nawlins is due to the love of food in New Orleans, the city has abnormally high numbers when it comes to obesity, blood pressure, and so forth, none of which helps one survive.....

 

So let me see fellows, if the government leadership knew  ... 

... then you would think (at least I would), that that would be a major reason to act swiftly, even more swiftly than other states, and cancel/postpone the Mardi-Gras. Am I missing something. No excuses any more. At some point someone has to be held accountable.

 

 

 

20/20 hindsight, blaming state government just doesn't cut it - at least in my opinion.

Not all government did know, and they were receiving mis-information at the highest levels - and Mardi Gras is not a single entity, it is not State Government-controlled. It is thousands of individual entities all over the area, as far as Mobile, Alabama, Florida, Texas - not just the big ones in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Northshore - and it is not government sponsored/owned - it is hundreds of private clubs donating their time and resources so that visitors from your home town, and from around the globe can act in a way they wouldn't dare to act at home if someone who knew them were watching.

 

I believe that personal responsibility is, now and always, a factor. Back in mid-February, mere days before Mardi Gras there were just a few "Hot-Spots" known, listed, and widely politicized per Coronavirus. We were told of a nursing home "HOT SPOT" in Washington State, but mainly it was in Wuhan, China, plus a cruise ship, and spread by people who had contact there, right?  Misinformation? Mardi Gras? Hindsight is always 20/20, but thanks for the thought - and no, we were not there - we were on our way to judge at the Miami AACA Nationals. We are reminded to make our own decisions - And we ARE capable of that -

 

but the intent of Bob's thread, as I understand,

is for us to interact, personal, cars, family -

to stay in touch and not just to bitch and bellyache about what somebody else, some politician, some government agency, some local know-it-all, should have done.

 

At this moment all I really want is for us, our loved ones, my own family and yours, to survive, be healthy, and be a part of our future.

Thanks to all for the good wishes for my wife, for my thumb, for everything else,

but mostly let us appreciate our medical personnel, our first responders, UPS and FED/EX folks, our volunteers who step up "Just Because", 

 

The good news? My cooking skills are about on par with my mechanical skills - take it or leave it - but I can fix what I mess up- (wish I had Trimacar's skills)-

Wife continues to do OK and waiting Tuesday's chemo infusion. Son, daughter, in-laws are hanging in despite jobs requiring some social distancing personal interaction (hospital building/plant engineer; psychologist dealing with military veterans and their ongoing PTSD issues, computer hardware/software tech for medical equipment - all still working exhausting hours to support the community.

 

Grandson called from college last night.  - he has been offered acceptance by at least two different Grad Schools so far, including teaching assistanceships and stipends - that will help - so proud of this kid !!!

Of course all his final semester college classes are now online -  interesting when he is a Music Performance Major, and nobody (not even us) will be allowed to attend his recital (Judges are in separate rooms listening via video?). His (non-ceremonial) college graduation is a month away. This kid, also an AACA judge and tour driver, has been Deans List every college semester, and like thousands of other college and high school graduates, his mom will not get to see him wear the "Cap and Gown" - a small thing in the big picture? Absolutely, but still another part of life as we now know it.

 

Old cars are starting well, and other than additional planned maintenance, should be ready for the touring season - if it ever gets here. We hope to drive the Sentimental, Reliability, Glidden, and two Divisional Tours, and will support the Founders Tour when it is rescheduled. Hopefully, we'll continue to judge as well, with Charlotte, Annual Grand National in Allentown, and of course Hershey.

 

Stay well,

Stay Strong,

Stay Six Feet Away,

But mostly - STAY !!

Edited April 4, 2020 by Marty Roth (see edit history)

[8E45E]

15 hours ago, wayne sheldon said:

This whole mask thing has my dander up! Our out-of-the-way county with only a couple dozen known cases (can't believe most of the numbers they throw around anyway) is threatening to REQUIRE - ALL -people to wear masks when going out to any store or other necessary trip!

 

Where am I supposed to GET a mask?

 I have a box of N95 masks from a local Safety Supply store, and fortunately still have some left.  I normally use them for spray painting, like most who restore cars, but the last time I used one for a non-auto-related activity was while helping during our flood cleanup here in 2013.

 

Craig

[Marty Roth]

11 hours ago, Isaiah said:

this is a poly to crash the economy in the U.S.A

 the kids that  or were graduating this year  wont get a diploma..

 

As with my grandson, they get the diploma, but just not where, and when parents and grandparents can share , endorse, be a part of the achievement.

 

We share in the inequity, but have to accept the new normal, at least for now.

[Robert G. Smits]

15 hours ago, Marty Roth said:

but we have food, medical necessities, and TP - so we're good for now.

This will end one day.  Can't wait to get back to NO.  Spent one week a month there for eight years starting right after Catrina.  Sure miss French Quarter Festival

Starting our 4th week of isolation (wife is immunodeficient) accompanied by our 11 year old triplet grandsons (parents work in the service industry)  Getting good at home schooling.  I am amazed that no one is getting cabin fever here yet.  Spent yesterday cancelling hotels for cancelled tours and Pate swap meet.  Living on a small ranch is a plus as there is always maintenance to do.  Regarding masks just get on U Tube videos for about 15 different  directions.  The only thing a Non M 95 mask does is help protect you from droplet contamination which is important.  More importantly it will lessen the chance of an infected person who is shredding virus from contaminating you with their normal breathing.  When the serology test becomes available we will be shocked at how many of us had Covid 19 without major symptoms.  Son was at Wal Mart yesterday and no one was following guidelines including the staff.  Five per cent wearing masks.

Grandson finishing his graduate program and grand daughter getting her Undergraduate degree from Oklahoma University in a few weeks.  All parties are cancelled  This will save me  a couple grand.  I am sure they will be happy with checks.  

Thanks for starting this thread and stay safe

[mike6024]

I haven't had TP for almost 3 weeks now. Been relying on a stock of Kleenex. I have not seen TP in any of the stores I've been to for nearly a month now. Safeway has a sign on the shelf saying take no more than two; but the shelf is completely empty, and no Kleenex or paper hand towels either. Also been to Lucky and FoodMax which are SaveMart stores and their shelf also empty. I used to always buy TP at the Dollar Tree Store but they are always out now.

 

Edited April 4, 2020 by mike6024 (see edit history)

[Guest]

Waiting for the frogs and locusts.....

 

So, it's not quite enough with disease and pestilence stalking the land. Last night just before 7pm we get a 4.9 magnitude earthquake up in Anza that gives a pretty good shaker here in Palm Springs, and within seconds my phone lights up with biblical joke texts from 30 different people.

Now I enjoy a good laugh as much as the next guy and I could certainly see the humor in this one, but I think I'm gonna brush up on my Book of Revelations.

 y'know.... just in case. 😄

[Marty Roth]

1 minute ago, GregLaR said:

Waiting for the frogs and locusts.....

 

So, it's not quite enough with disease and pestilence stalking the land. Last night just before 7pm we get a 4.9 magnitude earthquake up in Anza that gives a pretty good shaker here in Palm Springs, and within seconds my phone lights up with biblical joke texts from 30 different people.

Now I enjoy a good laugh as much as the next guy and I could certainly see the humor in this one, but I think I'm gonna brush up on my Book of Revelations.

 y'know.... just in case. 😄

 

Or maybe Book of EXODUS ?

 

Is Passover now cancelled - surely to celebrated differently - maybe using ZOOM - because of PLAGUE ??

[Robert G. Smits]

19 hours ago, Marty Roth said:

 

For those of you out of TP go to Amazon and buy Genuine Joe 23600 center pull towels.  They are under Commercial Paper products.  Function adequately as TP and Paper hand drying towels