I've been trying to limit my social media scrolling because every time I just come across someone else NOT following the fucking rules to keep themselves and others as safe as possible given the situation. I no-joke unfollowed, muted, or just plain ass deleted at least 5 people (some of whom I'm related to and disgusted with) over the long weekend on various social media platforms. I can't just watch you be selfish and be ok with it.
Dustin said the other day "Yeah, I think you and I are the last two people actually social distancing." I know it's not true but it certainly feels that way. I can only think of a couple people I know who are as diligent as we are. A couple. I even think some days that some new development has been announced that I haven't read about so I go to the CDC website and NOPE. All the same guidelines are STILL in place.
I don't get going to crowded beaches. I don't get going to crowded restaurants. I don't get going to get a tattoo when all the reputable tattoo shops I know haven't reopened their doors yet. I don't get people going to friends or families houses unless they're outside SIX feet a part or at least in masks. Speaking of masks, I don't get why people are so fucking offended by a goddamn mask. Just wear the damn thing. You are not only protecting yourself but also others! How is that in any way infringing on your rights? It is such a simple ask.
Very American to decide we are bored with COVID and therefore it is over— Jeff Kasanoff (@JeffKasanoff) May 3, 2020
We have not been to a restaurant (but we have ordered takeout!) or a retail store (but we have shopped online!) or hair salon (but we did cut Dustin's hair TWICE with beard trimmers) since March 15th. I haven't been to my gym since mid-March but still managed to work out every day of April and May (because it can be done at home). My gym actually just reopened yesterday so I called to ask them if I could either freeze my account until further notice or I'd cancel altogether. They allowed me to freeze my account which I was super thankful for. Do I miss the gym? Actually I fucking do. Do I want to have to work out at home/outside in gross Florida during the summer? Fuck no. But I rather do that than step foot in a gym even if they have upped their cleanliness this early in the pandemic.
The only places I go is the grocery store, my office building once a week, and the occasional take out (which has also been limited as I'm on a diet and have been strict since 5/1/20). Oh and I frequent the car wash but, you know, that doesn't really count since I don't get out of my car. I have seen ONE friend ONE time and we social distanced the entirety of the two hours we were together.
I understand everyone is stir crazy. BELIEVE ME. I am too. I live in a fucking 1,000 SF home and I can't wait to never look at these fucking walls again which is saying something especially as an introvert.
I understand you miss your loved ones. BELIEVE ME. So do I. I would love nothing more than to go shopping or grab coffee or go to a concert or meet up for book club with my friends but it's not in the cards at the moment. I'm heartbroken I won't get to hug Aubrie for her 13th birthday but that isn't going to stop me from dropping some presents off and waving and screaming from her driveway come Friday.
I understand it is taking a toll on mental health. BELIEVE ME. I'm back in therapy (FaceTime style) thanks to Covid-19 because I am severely depressed.
We are all going through variations of the same thing. We are all struggling to some degree which is why we should all be looking out for one another by following the instructions of the CDC, the experts, doctors, and scientists. I know the economy cannot stay shut down and I've seen some businesses really going above and beyond during this pandemic. Hats off to them for finding safe solutions and putting their employees and customers first (Costco, Chick-fil-a, Publix, several local establishments, etc.) If the phased reopenings were an inch the U.S. took a mile and it's never been more embarrassing to be an American. All the video footage from Mother's and Memorial Day weekends made me so anxious and upset. What the hell is wrong with people?
There are ways to see the people you love without touching. I've seen people having picnics in their front yards or doing birthday drive-bys or playing games via Zoom. There are ways to keep from going crazy. Actually there are more ways now than ever before - most are right at your finger tips and others you may need to get creative but yinz are all acting like straight up selfish brats. Can you imagine going through this even 20 or 30 years ago? We are all so lucky to at least have the technology to work from home or see someones face who lives 1,000 miles away instantly on the screen in front of us until this whole ordeal gets sorted out.
Coronavirus in the U.S.: Latest Map and Case Count
Florida cases are increasing by the way.
Listen to Dr. Darria talk about Covid on Mr. D's podcast.
Released this week.
Listen to Dr. Murthy (former US Surgeon General) talk about Covid on the Sibling Revelry podcast.
This was taped 4/1/20 but still very informative.
The Risks of 14 Summer Activities.
Disney announced it's reopening and I can't wait to not go.
All I'm asking is for you to give a shit. For the essential workers who don't get to stay home. For those with underlying health issues. For you and yours.
GIVE. A. SHIT.
Oh and you better fucking vote.
