Sorry for how long it’s been since my last post. First we had a rough bout of flu sweep through the house, then we had some technical difficulties with our computer. But finally everything seems to be up and running again. We are all health and happy, and we bought a new computer to replace the one that was broken. Now we are in the grip of COVID-19. The kids’ schools are closed for at least two weeks, and I’m sure daycare will close soon. Once daycare closes, I will have to stay home from work. I can’t imagine I will have enough sick leave to get paid through the two weeks. Emily (being a doctor and all) will still have to go in to work. Pets still get sick and injured after all. On the plus side (if daycare closes and I become a temporary stay at home dad) I will have more time with the kids, and frankly more time to post on this blog as an outlet for being a stay at home dad. Good conversation is hard to come by when you’re home with the kids all day.
We went to Target today to do a little supply stocking. While there I saw a person wipe down a shopping cart with Lysol wipes. My first reaction was to think that wiping down a cart was over kill, but I quickly changed my mind. I have no idea what “overkill” is these days. We didn’t go crazy and buy 144 rolls of toilet paper, but we did by some frozen foods that will keep for a while, some extra cereal for the kids, and (of course) ice cream. We’ve got a couple of loaves of bread in the freezer, a good amount of canned foods, and plenty of rice. I think we’ll be fine. But that is the real problem with COVID-19 in my opinion. I really have no idea if we are over prepared or grossly under prepared. There is so much information out there and half of it contradicts the other half. Some things you see on the news talks about this as a global crisis that could be devastating, while others refer to COVID-19 as little more than a joke. The idea of “Just wash your hands” doesn’t jive with people fighting in stores over the last roll of toilet paper.
Social Media is no help at all. I know that Facebook should never be a trusted source of information, but most of us spend a significant amount of time on social media. We get bombarded with misinformation about this disease to the point of exhaustion. And, for me, exhaustion is the point where I stop caring so much. I truly don’t know if I should be terrified or if this whole thing is a big joke. I know places like China and Italy have been hit extremely hard, but is that going to happen here? I feel like there was a big push to make us not worry about COVID-19 for a long time, but now we’ve hit the panic button.
Our response as a nation has been confusing. We’ve closed the borders as far as international travel is concerned. India and Oscar’s school is closed for at least the next two weeks, but daycare is still open. Oscar has soccer practice on Tuesday that is still scheduled to happen. The government downplayed COVID-19 for all most a month, but now we are in a national state of emergency. Should I take the kids to daycare and go to work Monday? Emily’s and my line of work can’t stop. Animals will need help no matter what is going on in the world and where there are sick animals, there will be their potentially contagious owners. If an owner is sick and infects me, and I bring it home and infect my kids…I don’t know. It would be hard to deal with. On the other hand, spreading disease to my family through contact with others is something I’ve risked long before COVID-19 was a concern of mine.
So, yeah. I know this is a ranting rambling post, but it is an honest post. And, I bet a lot of people feel similarly to me. I don’t really know what to think of COVID-19. Is it similar to the flu (and thus not to be feared [I know the flu so I don’t fear the flu]) or is this a new much scarier upper airway disease. My true fear is for India. She has asthma and I am truly terrified she will get sick and end up in the hospital again where there could be a shortage of hospital beds. I don’t want her to know my fear and spread my fear to her. I want life to go on much as it always had, but I also don’t want to bury my head in the sand and pretend like COVID-19 doesn’t exist or pose a threat to my family.
Last but not least, Emily and I were recognized and thanked for our posts in Target. Shout out to the lady that saw us in Target, I wish I had asked your name, instead of just saying “thank you.” Tell us if you guys are afraid of what’s going on with COVID-19, or if the disease doesn’t scare you. And, as always, thanks for reading.
Not scared, prepared. I have a disease that requires me to take anti-inflammatory and steroids, so I am a higher risk category but luckily I can telework. I spent the day working on the computer with my three min pin sleeping on the couch, the birds screaming and the cats going crazy. One day at a time. We will survive.
Take care of yourself and the family!
The media makes this frightening. As it hits closer to home it gets more scary. We’re over 60 and we have a 92 year old here also. At some point it just gets more serious.
I don’t think it’s the media , it’s happening everywhere. I’m in a tiny town in Canada only 2,300 people. We all ready have the test kit’s here by the way. With that said an hour and half away in a much larger town but still small for our province there are already 3 cases of this pandemic and in Vancouver BC which is only 4 hours away we have had a number of deaths. I’m just careful thankfully we have enough TP as it’s sold out here ,I couldn’t even buy frozen veggies. On the other hand my mom and I just went to Washington last week I wasn’t afraid I just kept my hands washed but I’m not going to stop living. Be safe keep your hand washed, oh and moisturizer my hands are very dry and itchy.
Here in Indianapolis, we are blocked from visiting Mom in the nursing home. I get it, I really do, but she struggles with dementia and phone conversations scare and confuse her. Praying that we will soon wonder what all the fuss was about.
Yes, IN seems to be shut down…church services and meetings, schools, nursing homes and rehabs are under quarantine, local social events cancelled. The Rascal and I got out Thursday for supplies …carrots, green beans, apples (have enough kibble, wet food and treats), milk, bread, coffee, and yes, toilet paper. Local WiseWay well stocked. Community has certainly stepped up to offer help to us elderly (85). Without a fenced yard though, Rascal doesn’t really let me hunker down. Praying social distancing helps curb this crisis quickly.
I enjoy your posts! I agree with you on the virus. I’m considered elderly, even though I don’t feel like it! Now I feel as though I’m being told to stay home. Fortunately, I have my dogs for company. I feel bad for families with young children. The schools in Wisconsin plan for classes to be online and parents being home to help their children. Hope you and your children stay healthy
It’s really hard to know what to think. I’m 62 and my husband is 67 so we are in the age range that is supposed to be high risk. I have a younger friend in her fifties (who is a nurse like me) who contracted the virus from a patient and she is in critical condition in ICU. It’s all so strange.
I hope all works out for your friend
Sorry to hear about your friend. Hope she recovers quickly!
Respect it. Use good sense. Panic never helps. Knocking down potential contacts is a good way to help as a citizen.
I checked here earlier today to see if I had missed a post because I hadn’t seen anything pop up in my email in the last week. Glad you all are okay! We’re hunkered down here in eastern PA. Schools are closed (though we homeschool) and tomorrow our county will only allow essential businesses to be open. The liquor stores will be closed as of Tuesday! (St. Patrick’s Day prank?) I’m concerned for certain people in my family…like my 92 year old dad and my brother-in-law who’s having surgery on Monday due to cancer. Otherwise, I think all this social distancing will put a dent in the spread of the virus. And I’m happy to do it in order to keep our health care system from becoming overburdened. Praying that your family will remain healthy! God is in control!
Yes I am concerned but also not panicking!! Really-toilet paper sold out!!?? Well at least those people will lose those extra pounds!! I do miss Emily on dr poll but respect your decision for your family!! Hope you enjoy Virginia!!
Yes! Toilet paper is gone everywhere in town. Also all hand sanitizer is gone. After that a few days later there started a run on food all over town. Seriously almost all pasta products at Walmart are gone, along with beans, spaghetti sauce, and the list goes on at all three of the grocery stores in town!
I miss Emily to but hay you all made the right choice It had to be right for both of you and your family, been there done that and came out on the other end much better. I’m happy I found your blog. It’s the first one I’ve ever followed. Thank you for continueing to care about the people who fell in love with your family .
I work in a school here in Minnesota (lunchroom).My fear is schools close and I have no income.Just praying it’s over fast for all of us.Enjoy your stories.Take care.
I am in California, Southwest Riverside County. Schools have all been closed along with most Daycare centers. People are going crazy buying not only all the TP but food. Shelves are bare. My husband and I can stay home but we care for my 85 year old Mom and she is bored crazy staying inside. She is stocked with food case we can’t get to her.
Not gonna stop living. Respect it, do what you can to prevent it. I work in healthcare so it’s kinda scary knowing we (healthcare workers) will be exposed to it at some point.
Thanks for your blog. ERVet here. I’ll go to work my shifts, but my husband will stay home and work from there. He has that luxury. He’s an attorney and all of his cases have been pushed back. I have good friend in Grand Junction. Her hubs is an ER MD. They have made an apartment out of part of their house w separate access and he will stay there with only FaceTime contact with wife and 4 kids til this is over. That may be a week or a year. When I think we are inconvenienced, I think of them . Stay safe!
My oldest has asthma as well, and my youngest is just over a year old. I work with adults with disabilities who may not understand how to wash their hands or that cannot move their own bodies to do it. I am trying to be informed and inform my kids as well without overwhelming them and letting them see how terrified I am. We got some supplies as well, sanitizer is running out in Minnesota as is bleach. I can’t not work, but if my oldest has school cancelled I will probably be the one staying home. As much as I would like the time with them, not because of a pandemic.
Thank you for sharing. My wife and I have been having the exact same conversation today. We don’t know what to believe anymore. We’re both in our early sixties but we also both have underlying conditions. We’ve got supplies, our kids are checking in on us. But it’s still scary. I appreciate your openness. It’s refreshing.
Wiping down the shopping cart is always a good idea year around!
I believe it should be taken seriously. But panicking will not be helpful. I just worry about the kids who are now not going to get to eat because they relied on school breakfasts and lunch for a meal!
Yes it does scare me, I am a for,er patient who was on chemo for many years, I have diabetes, asthma, menerius disease and a few other this wrong. AMD being 65 it does scare me. I had to be at the hospital HUMC when the 1st patient was brought in and the news media was horrible. I had to go 2 more days for testing and on the last day there was that news media again as that 1st patient had died. So being there I was concerned but 6 days have passed and no signs yet. I will say I have a drs appt on Monday but I will cancel as that is a follow up and I dont need to get sick since I will be having surgery on the 30th.
I am far from a ‘prepper’. But I agree with them that you should have 3 weeks of food for the whole family. I am not worried about utilities. Some do have barrels of water, a generator with fuel and a non-electric cooking device.
Buying a carload of TP is stupid.
I feel the same as you! I wasn’t worried at all! Now I’m kinda like is there something I’m missing? I think I’m more worried we will run out of food tho!
Thanks for the post Tony, I love being able to stay caught up with you and the family. Don’t worry if you feel you are rambling, I don’t see it that way at all. As far as the coronavirus, I don’t know what to think. I am a Christian and trust the Lord will protect me, the Bible says do not fear, but then I see the news, the closures and lack of necessities in the stores, so I try to just lean on the Lord and take it one day at a time. Praying for you and your family.
I’m in Nova Scotia, Canada. We have no confirmed cases as of yet but I’m sure that will change. Schools here are going to resume after March break but that could change by the end of the week. A limit has been placed on the amount of people who can gather at once, 150! We went to Costco this morning. It was crazy!! I think it’s great to be prepared, but everyone seems to be going a little overboard with gathering supplies. I’m not scared, just prepared.
Thanks for the update you on and the family. Stay safe.
Thanks for sharing about your concerns. You are not alone about being confused. Here in Edmonton, Alberta there is a sense of being cautious but not one of panic just yet. There are long lineups for food and some empty shelves but no one is behaving in fear. (or do I have blinders on?) I only have myself to worry about as my children are adults but I respect other parents’ concerns. I don’t know of anyone off hand who has the virus and that’s fine by me.
Just keep taking preventative measures until this thing blows over.
Take care of yourselves. 🙂
I work in healthcare (of humans) and I am alert, but not panicking. I try to sift wheat from chaff with all the media coverage and stuff you hear online. I am diligently handwashing! I am otherwise healthy and plan to stay that way, God willing. I am concerned for my Mom, who is 82 years old and has lung issues, but she is pretty reclusive right now and availing herself of my sister’s Christmas gift of Shipt! Take care, everyone!
I so appreciate your honesty!
Treat it as 10 times more severe than the regular flu. If the kids’ school and daycare are closed, you stay home. The new legislation covers at least 2/3 of your pay. Sick leave does not come into play.
The vet practice should implement best practices for a pandemic. If they don’t, both of you should stay home.
It was very worthwhile and appreciated for you to weigh in on our current virus troubles. Someone we trust and respect.
Thank you for your post. No, I do not fear corona virus. I think it’s being blown out of proportion for political reasons.
Thanks for the update! Glad you’re all doing well. Just subscribed today. Only recently discovered Dr Emily won’t return to Dr Pol. She will be missed. She should have her own show!
Can’t wait till the Covid-19 scare is over! Just wish people would stop hoarding! Went to 7 stores today in search of toilet paper and all were complete sold out!
Personally I’m not worried. I’m in the high is range what with my age and heart disease. The flu takes thousands of people every year. This isn’t the first Coronavirus that’s been around either. I don’t get why people are hoarding toilet paper. Maybe their going to wrap themselves up as mummies and hope nothing gets through to them. Lol Worry causes stress. Stress causes sickness. Why worry? If I’m going o get something that is going to kill me then it is my time to go. If it’s my time to go there is nothing I can do to stop it. I trust in the Lord and if He calls me home then I’m going home. If not then I get to live in this crazy messed up world a little longer. Believe me, I know some people think I’m nuts. But I don’t live for them. I don’t believe in or trust a lot of things in this world. And that’s my two cents worth! May y’all find peace and less stress! ✌️
I am 65 & have a autoimmune disease so I am afraid.. Just that simple. We have always been bulk shoppers & lucky have plenty of most things we need with the exception of fresh fruit & veggies. I do have frozen.
As for the confusion I get it. My thoughts in closing things down for a few weeks is it’s a good idea. After reading a bunch about “Flattening the curve” it made sense to me. Seems like after China closed everything down the spread slowed too. I rather be safe & inconvenienced for 2 weeks than to get sick. I also have many drug allergies & lots of those involve antibiotics so for me I will stay in & wait it out.. I think you guys are doing what is right for your family. That’s the best all of us can do.
Hi Toni,
We aren’t scared or are we overly prepared. Since we are protective we will be safe. You can’t believe everything but will have to trust some of the information. Keep your family safe miss not having you in our homes on Saturday evening via Dr Pol . Miss seeing Dr Emily but glad you all got away from being on call all the time. Be safe
Hi Tony, we are in Washington. It’s really nutty up here. The big scare is how folks have reacted in the stores. We are in our 60’s so I suppose we should worry but it won’t help. We’re curtailing a lot of contact with the outside world but we’re not hermits. Washing our hands and so on is all we can do. I feel like the world really is over reacting with the shutdowns, but protecting India is paramount since in the end we just don’t know. Thanks for your stories, stay well.
Thanks for the blog. I understand your feelings. Was wondering how you and your family was doing. I am in Manchester, NH and the stores are crazy here. Schools are closed here for two weeks. I am 69 and taking one day at a time. Staying home when I can to stay away from the crazy people. Will be looking for your next blog/vlog. Take care of yourself and family!!!
Hey Tony & Emily,
I myself am not afraid. My husband in the beginning was petrified, but I started to wear off on him.
We even booked a mini vacation (our excuse was a friend was getting married in Florida) so we decided since we are in Florida why not book a cruise. Unfortunately yesterday we learned our cruise was canceled and 124 calls later to spirit and 1 1/2 hours on hold we had to cancel our flights and rebook everything. Also 1 hour of trying to reach someone at carnival and also another 1 1/2 hours on hold and we are all rebooked for the next cruise out after the pause.
Flying is so much cheaper now. We got a trip from Vegas to Tampa for $21 each for one way
Hopefully I don’t come back with the swine flu, lol.
Wishing you & your family lots of good health during this time.
Loving the blog
We are retired and live off grid in a remote section of Alaska and are feeling the impact of Covid-19 in our small community of about 800. We still have to go to into the village to get our mail and drop off eggs at the local bakery/cafe and just say hello to those we know.
Within the last week the library has closed down, schools have closed, and events have been cancelled.
We have been told by friends and family that the stores in the larger cities are dealing with long lines and bare shelves. There is no TP to be had, but soap is still available…go figure.
Because we are over 60, we obviously don’t want to chance being exposed to the virus, and will take necessary precautions to stay well.
Wishing you and your family well.
We are retired and live off grid in a remote section of Alaska and are feeling the impact of Covid-19 in our small community of about 800. We still have to go to into the village to get our mail and drop off eggs at the local bakery/cafe and just say hello to those we know.
Within the last week the library has closed down, schools have closed, and events have been cancelled.
We have been told by friends and family that the stores in the larger cities are dealing with long lines and bare shelves. There is no TP to be had, but soap is still available…go figure.
Because we are over 60, we obviously don’t want to chance being exposed to the virus, and will take necessary precautions to stay well. It’s a scary thing for the immune compromised and elderly. Having 3-4 weeks of food stocked up isn’t a bad idea. In general, but there are those who are panic “over-shopping” that make it difficult for others to get what they need.
Wishing you and your family well.
You never know doing it the right way.
I share your feelings and confusion about the virus. I’m not panicked but being cautious. On top of being 61, I have autoimmune disease and take immune suppression drugs, so I already have the hand washing and not touching my face thing down. Lol. I’m hoping this thing passes on through and gets better soon. The store raiding is insane. We are hoping to be able to find a loaf of bread tomorrow so my husband can take his usual sandwich to work for lunch. I guess we shall see.
I continue to enjoy your honest and down to earth posts! Stay well and God bless.
All my life I’ve kind of just Pooh-pood contagious things like the common cold or the flu. This thing grabbing everyone’s attention now has my attention. I’m 86 and had pneumonia six months ago. My wife is 75, had pneumonia four months ago and is also a diabetic…….now that sports is kaput on TV I guess reruns of PVS shows, crossword puzzles and free cell will keep us occupied.
TONY, your blog shows a very sensible take on how it is effecting the Thomas family. I’ll say a few extra prayers for the THOMAS family and the unknown friends I have who join me in reading the blog. PEACE, EVERYONE 🙏🤠
This is a great post from the heart. Personally, I am not afraid of COVID-19. My mother and I are in the older/elderly age group that should stay home. However, one must go to the grocery store (not that there’s anything left on the shelves).
There are two reasons I’m unafraid of COVID-19: 1. When it’s my time it’s my time; and 2. My brother-in-law is a doctor and he has said everyone is overreacting. And I trust his medical opinion.
So, all that being said, I still wash my hands as instructed due to COVID-19 and I wear exam gloves when I grocery shop.
Everybody be safe!
O man we are all in the same boat.Yesterday I went to the supermarket.I live in the Netherlands,our supermarkets are smaller than the American ones.I was perplexed seeing people emptying the shelves and stocking up like they would have to stay at home for weeks and weeks. Our prime minister had said on the tele:DO not stock up,there is food enough .Which is true and I refuse to let myself being talked into madness.But schools are closing down here,online teaching.And the airports are extremely quiet places.
But Spring is coming and I decided to do some gardening and today I will start on giving my pelargoniums bigger pots.
We are christians and we and our children all are praying for one another we will not get sick. Pray for your family. do not forget Jesus loves you and all your family.Jesus healed the sick,He did not go around making people sick. God bless you all.Thanks for the post here.
I agree with Jan. I am 72 and in the health care field. Remember Swine Flu? Ebola? I am not saying we should not take this seriously but fear makes everthing worse.
Stay safe. Don’t panic. Take precautions but don’t buy 144 rolls of TP or paper towels. ( unless you use alot of it anyway. )
Don’t touch and wash your hands constantly. I stay at home only because I have Stage 3 heart failure. Stay well. Waiting on the next vlog ! GO DAWGS !
your thoughts are the same as so many of us. The media, the social media, the president, they all hype their beliefs way to much, why with all of this technology can we not get honest, truthful answers from those in charge instead of blame games from the other side. we’re all Americans I don’t care what side your for just quit the crap and let us know what’s going on, keep you and your family safe and hopefully the kids won’t get sick,
Be well, and continue posting.
I live in Moncton New Brunswick, and its the same here. schools closed, no visiting hospitals or nursing homes. I am 75 and I am not sure if I should be afraid but after watching all the media coverage I am becoming somewhat concerned… but I guess we just take a day at a time and hope it all goes away soon… I love to hear from you and Emily. as a matter of fact I am watching an episode of Dr. Pol where Emily had just started there… take care of your family and keep those blogs coming. both of you…
Tony, in my opinion your concerns are not a whole lot different than a lot of people out there. My opinion, for what it’s worth, is that the elderly, like me and my husband, and those with compromised conditions are the ones most at risk. We have one here with COPD and one with a heart condition so we, of course, are being a little extra careful. That being said, we are still going about our daily lives but going out less often. Washing your hands is always an excellent idea of course and wiping down the carts is something that we here always do anyway. If we can avoid the flu or a cold or COVID-19 then we don’t mind taking a minute to wipe down the carts. Who knows what has been transmitted onto the handles or sides of those things. Sorry, I have rambled a bit myself but I just wanted to express to you that we are all concerned and you don’t need to feel alone. Our schools are closed for 6 weeks!! Good job with your preparation and common sense. Stay healthy and looking forward to more posts. India sure looks like Emily. 🙂
Tony I don’t think any of us are sure what’s going on. I work for a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility in Somerset KY. We have stopped visitors from entering our building. I transport the residents to their doctor appointments outside the facility and we have stopped that unless it is truly a must have appointment. I worry going into all these places. Will I pick up this nasty covid 19 and take it home to my family? Will the elderly resident I’m taking there get it and take it back to the facility? The elderly are the ones that are suffering the worse with this. I was in an elevator Thursday and a woman and her child was in there. The child, looked to be about 7 was pushing the buttons. When they got off on their floor I turned to the doctor that was also in the elevator and said, I don’t think I would be letting my children push the buttons especially now. He said they seem to be the only ones that are not really affected by this covid 19.
I feel he same way you do ! I have cancelled two cruises because of this fear. Is it warranted, I don’t know,?? But am erring on the dude of caution.
I guess I am kind of fortunate. I am retired, so I don’t have to travel to work every day and be around lots of people. It’s just me and my husband (no kids) and I do a lot of my shopping online. We buy in bulk, and have a full freezer, so we have enough to get by for quite awhile. We are not panicking, just being cautious. We can afford to stay home and wait until most of the craziness has subsided. I hope you and your family stay safe.
A few weeks back I began to systematically buy a few things here, a few things there, and I’ve been adding to it every few days. Yesterday was my last day out. I plan to self-quarantine. My husband is 82 and in poor health. I am his sole caregiver. I am 61 and have asthma, and I am immunocompromised, so as much as I try, I am just a little freaked out. I guess it is the fear of the unknown.
I hope you and your kids are able to get through this okay. Love to you all.
Thanks Tony, I think you summed it up perfectly. The information is confusing, contradictory, and sadly, much of it reflects political bias. I try to stay in the frame of mind that I will protect those that I can protect, use common sense, avoid watching too much news. Taking it one day at a time and reflecting often on the Serenity Prayer are keeping me mostly grounded. Oh yeah, wine helps too:)
from our family to yours. Be well and happy in your new lives!
I am afraid but not so much of the virus but at the sheer panic the United States is in. I live in Indiana so tornadoes and snow are about the biggest events we might have but on Friday when I went to get some butter milk for my home bound elderly mother, the hysteria and panic was crazy. People were snatching and grabbing like they had to get the last one before someone else got it no matter what it was. I was more afraid of being attacked and injured for my 1/2 gallon of buttermilk I was trying to purchase than the potential sickness I might get. Glad to know I am not the only person that thinks things are a bit out of control.
Tony if you do have to stay home with your children, cherish every minute of it. Your children are only little for a short time. They are babies today, going to first day of school tomorrow, graduating from elementary school the next day, graduating high school the day after that and then they are gone.
God bless you Emily and your children.
Thanks for your update
Glad to hear you are all doing well
Thanks for posting. I’m glad you all are okay. Here in our little town in Texas has gone crazy. I’m not afraid I just want my cheese and chocolate and let me go home in less than 2 hrs its taking to get through the checkout stand. My niece has 2 masters in Public Health & Social Work and a PhD in Public Health. She has told us to stay home and don’t go out any more than we have too especially my husband (who is 20 yrs older than me) and my step-dad.
I say just don’t stop posting so we will have something to do while at home. LUV you all, wish I could have seen you at Target.
Tony, first of all I’m glad you, Emily and the kids made it thru the flu! My daughter is a pharmacy tech at Kroger and she says they’ve been slammed hard for the past couple of months over the flu, so it’s nasty business this year.
Now my thoughts on Corona/COVID-19, while it was on the other side of the world I really didn’t think much about it although I did read all the articles. Even when it first came to the US, to me it was on the west coast and they were people who had traveled recently. Then almost overnight it had come to my world- IN, IL, NY then BAM Ohio! Ok as long as it stayed north of me in Cleveland I was ok. I spent 20 years in nursing and I don’t like scaring people needlessly with end of days tripe, there’s no need for that when everything I’ve read has said that people most at risk are the elderly, those with COPD and compromised immune systems. I live in Delaware, OH which is 23 miles north of Columbus. Yesterday it was announced that Columbus had its first confirmed case, then I got nervous!
I’m having a total hip replacement the first part of next month and I absolutely have to stay healthy! So yesterday afternoon I blocked myself off from the people living in my house with an 8 foot radius, including my husband! They all go out in public much more than I do simply because my disease makes it hard for me to get around anymore. So if you go out in public you can’t come close to me. That means my thinking about Corona/COVID-19 has come full circle. I’m not terrified into buying 10 yrs worth of toilet paper (why?), but I now have a healthy respect for it!
I feel very much like you do. Not sure what to think but since I am older, I have to take precautions. So I have. Just staying home, watching TV, praying and reading the Bible and other things. I know God has this.
I guess I am also wondering is our government trying to hide something else from us and using this as a smoke screen. Is this another way they are trying to control us? I just don’t know.
I have seen the head doctor from John Hopkins university and he says this will be going on for 2-3 months or more.
No I am not afraid. But me husband is about me. I am disabled and if I go to town I get sick. My immune system is not working like it use to. I am hopeing when we move to OR I can find a Dr. who will help me. People panic but a person does not.
Thank you for your honesty Tony, I’m not necessarily afraid but yes I’m being very cautious. I have a diminished immune system do to illness so I am just staying home as much as I can, taking vitamin C and not touching anyone if I do go out. I also will be coupled up with kids for 2wks while my kids work I’ll have my grandkids. I guess it’s time to get out all the crafts :)) stay safe everyone and be kind please. Love to everyone.
I always wipe my grocery with wipes & have for decades. Little kids with snotty noses sit in those cart & have their hands all over it. Just wanting to stay healthy. Hand washing is a must. Glad you all are settling in nicely. Take precautions but don’t panic.
Things in the Atlanta area are pretty much on lockdown. Everything is getting cancelled, even outdoor events. Grocery stores are picked over, no tp, bread, flour, chicken, or milk. Cancelling of events forces us to stay home. So that should help in not spreading it. We are retired and in good health so just going to keep on living as usual, although with more attention to cleanliness. Well stay confined to home if we show symptoms. Best wishes, love your blog!
I believe that as usual the media has whipped everyone into a frenzy of fear. I have been in healthcare for 26 years. I look at the time frame with things like bird flu, an more people were dead an infected with bird flu in the same time frame. I think the local government has clearly went over board with this. Closing schools etc. I wonder will shutting down the world basically, will actually stop it completely or will it still be with us. I do not remember these measures being taken for any other virus. Just my thoughts.
I remember back in 2009 the swine flu killed almost 13000 people in the US over the course of a year. I’ve read that the flu kills between 27000 and 70000 people a year in the US. Putting it in perspective, I think the news media is over reporting this. Should we be concerned? Yes. Prepared? Abosolutely. But panic? No way. Good hygiene habits should always prevail. I hope and pray that this is not being exploited for political gains. Given that just chill. We will get thru this too. Peace out ang Bless and protect us from all evil.
Thanks for the update! I’m in Canada, and feel like when the virus first started spreading out of control in China, that was the time for the government to take measures to prevent the spread to this country. That didn’t happen, and I feel that it was all downplayed, like you feel happened in the US, until suddenly the schools are closed here for three weeks, all the kids’ hockey games have been cancelled, churches are all closed, as are municipal offices. It’s a scary situation not knowing really what to expect, especially when some people are stockpiling to a ridiculous degree. I gradually stocked up on things when the virus was still mostly confined to China, and was starting to feel a bit foolish about it, but now I have some supplies, without feeling like I might be preventing some others from getting what they need. I just wish people wouldn’t be selfish about this. Anyways, thanks for posting the blog. It brightened my day.
Trying to stay Zen about the whole thing. Till it hits the fan, or, doesn’t. “They tried to whip up the same hysteria with H1N5 afew yrs ago. I think your post reflects the emotional state of most of the rational people in the world. So much disinformation and lies and BS. I will rely on myself and my intuition and try to stay healthy. See you on the other side!! Take care of those kiddos!!
Your post is how I would think most of us feel. Thanks
This is so overboard, I just close my eyes and shake my head. More people die of the flu each year than those that has sadly passed from this. Be aware but be sane, life goes on!
I think you are not alone feeling that way. We have so much conflicting information it’s hard to decide how to feel! We are seniors, and trying to be prepared but not panic. Taking a “better safe than sorry” stance. I hope your family gets through this unscathed.
Hi, cheers from the new “core” of the epidemic. I’m Italian, I live in Rome, so not really in the eye of the cyclone, which is Northern Italy, but all the same living in lockdown, kids-at-home, justify-every-trip-outside mode. I always work from home, I’m a translator and dialogue writer for Italian TV dubbing (I translated dr.Pol’s show since the very early pre-Emily seasons!) so I don’t feel it as many others do, but I can assure you that this is totally NOT a “Chinese joke”, as many people from around the Western World seem to think. You know, my country has a TON of big time issues, but luckily it still has a national healthcare system, and a good one. Even if the epidemic hit in the most advanced and rich area, it’s killing people to the beat of 350 per day, (368 just yesterday), and stressing the system to its very limit and beyond. After 3 full weeks we’re still far from the peak period. I don’t even want to imagine if all this had happened to Western Africa, or India. Swine and regular influenza didn’t spread this fast and didn’t require so much patients to be ventilated and assisted in intensive care, at least not here. It really is something new to our generation, so please, do not underestimate it. Of course panic is useless, and yes, media outlets love to make a big Roland Emmerichesque show out of it. I hope that this big virus wave just passes over us and dissolve right afterwards, but the chances are slim. So, let’s wish all of us luck, and follow the rules of caution and patience. At the moment, they’re the only ones that work. A big (no-contact) hug to everyone here, and Tony and Emily and the kids, and keep up with the good work.
Thank you, and good luck to you and everyone dealing with this in Italy
THANK YOU! It’s great to hear from someone who is more in the midst of what’s going on then to trust news agencies that have from time to time embellished stories! There’s no need to increase panic, common sense and good old fashioned hygiene are the norms that people should follow!
It’s hard to know what is true and what’s not anymore. Being retired and having a background in the Fire Service I tend to error on the side of caution. We live in a rural area and that seems to make it easier, but we heard today that there is a confirmed case a few miles away. Hopefully we can soon get back to our “normal ” lives. Thank you and Emily for sharing.
We feel the same as you. Don’t know if my granddaughter should go to daycare. Don’t know if it’s going to stay open. Should I go to work, shouldn’t I go to work?
Keep up the blog !!! I love reading them and I fir them daily ❤️
I am afraid, but mostly because of the unknown. No vaccine, no leadership, no TP haha. I’m more diligent with washing hands and home. We’re pet sitters and have had several cancellations so far. It’s going to get very tight financially and that’s a whole other worry. Love your blog too; keep on writing!
Thanks for the cute way of giving vet advice, Dr India! My goodness but she looks like her mother. Lol…
In the beginning it didn’t scare me, but now that there are cases all over MI, Uhm yeah it does. But only because of having a lot of family that would be at major risk factor!! Including my oldest son, who has SEVERE asthma, my middle son who has Chiari(long information, yes I know, no one really knows what that is) but it has to do with swelling on his brain, AND the very fact that on April 6th he will be going in for brain surgery. My youngest is the healthiest, but glad they closed the schools(according to them, they will be doing MASSIVE cleaning, LETS HOPE) and last but not least myself, who has emphysema and other health issues that litterly leave me 0 to barely an immune system!! As far as bleach wiping grocery carts, lol I have ALWAYS done that, but remember I have 3 boys who were little at one time, so I do remember the icky noses ect and their very dirty little hands that touch those seats LOL 😂 plus hey, let’s get real, we’ve ALL seen some pretty icky adults also, sorry not sorry! It’s become overwhelming for me to even think about, so what I’m trying to do is block it out, at least for most of the day, shut the news off, shut the radio off, stop reading scary shit, and just try to mentally relax. My animals help, going outside with them gets me away from media, and just watching funny or stupid shows just to BREATH!! Sorry this was long Tony….. stay healthy!!
As you, Tony, I don’t know what to think, especially about the hoarding. I’m personally like India, only more vulnerable in that I am 68 years old, have asthma, COPD, and am missing part of a lung. It scares the heck out of me and I’ve never seen anything like this in my lifetime. Good bless you all.
Not afraid. Just cautious. My husband is in the at risk category because of his age and health issues so we are sticking close to home. In 2009 the swine flu killed many more and there was no uproar. Just goes to show how much America’s mindset has changed since then. Stay safe…God bless!
I live in Oklahoma City, and of course we made the National news over the Thunder-Jazz basketball game and the game was canceled And fans sent home. I’m not panicking, but I read people my age were handling this ok. I’m 62 and have a compromised immune system, vulnerable to any type of pneumonia, I have asthma and use 3 different inhaler’s, but I’m not worried. I don’t work and my hubby works outside in the oil field and he does the grocery shopping. I am a true optimist and believe in 2-4 weeks time, this pandemic will be gone. I don’t mind staying home and can talk to whomever I want or need to on the phone. I just think, this too, shall pass and I hope it’s not like passing a kidney stone!! Gotta have some humor!!
It’s very hard to know who to trust through all of this. Everything needs to be taken with a grain of salt and a heaping spoon of common sense.
Do what you feel is best for your family.
Wash your hands for at least 30 seconds all the time.
Don’t touch your face.
You might find this site helpful. It was developed by a 17 yo kid from Seattle (He’s going places) and it updates about every minute or so. Just facts, no editorizing.
https://www.democracynow.org/2020/3/13/meet_the_17_year_old_behind?fbclid=IwAR2bnX5aJMulSgqbcpI0urU1vXm9_I79Zd5fZ4K0H_it36RFlzjdsScj97E
Keep healthy.
Hi y’all. We are in Loudoun County, VA where we have a toilet paper shortage….. just gonna leave that there 🙄. Trying to be smart and safe. Staying home. Husband’s office shut for at least 2 weeks, he’s teleworking. Praying for all this to go away soon. Keep yourselves and your babies safe. We love you.
I work in a school as an IT technician here in Georgia. They have closed the schools for two weeks, so far, but some speculate it will be closed longer.
We are doing e-learning for the first time and it has been going surprisingly well, considering we were not very prepared for this.
My job is support for the teachers and for the most part it has been relatively quiet, most issues happen before noon and the rest of the day is quiet. This allows me to get laundry done, HA.
I refuse to live in fear but am cautious about going out as my Mom (85) lives with us.
I feel like the media has added hype to their reporting, as usual, and caused a lot of unnecessary panic, again as is their MO. I really wish they could report facts without the drama. I think it woud help stop a lot of knee-jerk reactions by these sheep we call the ‘public’
I live in Greensboro NC and I absolutely love your post Tony and Dr. Emily’s. Yes I do and will miss you both on Dr. Pol but sure understand why you needed to do what you did. Virginia is a beautiful place but I wish you had moved to NC and that is selfish but how I feel. Keep up the “blog” really do love reading and keeping up with those precious children. They are growing up way to fast. I so remember when the baby was a baby but he is getting to be a big boy now. The baby grew up in a hurry. Thanks again and glad you decided to jump in on the blog.
World has always been a scary place. But now we travel without even thinking about it. In the past a similar virus would be contained because people didn’t go much past their nearest town.
I work for a court that is maintaining services as much as possible. Court hallways look surreal without no one around.
Relying on my faith and also being smart about prevention. God expects us to use the mind He provided us with 🙂
I think you know in your heart what the right thing to do is. If your daycare shuts down that’s a huge indicator. I have 5 kids and I am well aware that kids pick up everything and they also share their mighty illnesses with us. Stay home and post for us!! We would love continuing to know what’s going on with your family.
Understand how you feel .. just know all of this will pass soon.. I pray for you guys daily and I’m sure others do too. Enjoy your time with the kiddos if you have to stay home.. They grow up too quick! 😉
Thanks for the laugh!! We all need to remember to laugh…it’s a healer. I live in California…yep, toilet paper is a big issue here too! 2 people stopped me in the parking lot last week to ask if I had any toilet paper to sell (kinda like the ’60’s drug deal)! I do my Costco shopping once every month. I still had toilet paper leftover from the last month but had decided to buy more just in case!! I am now the most popular senior citizen in the neighborhood!! Who would have guessed that was all it took??!!! Hang tight everyone. Take this too shall pass!!
I too, work for a vet. Of course we won’t be closing, however we are asking clients to call us when they arrive at the office. If a client is picking up a prescription or food, we take it out to their car. Unless an owner objects, we take their pet into the building, (we only see dogs & cats) our vets examine them & FaceTime with their owner while doing the exam. If a client doesn’t have a phone, we give them a tablet (wrapped in a disposable cover) in order to do this. Most of our clients seem to appreciate us doing things this way & understand.
My boss said when they built our office ten yrs ago he wanted to put a “drive thru” in so clients could pick up prescription meds, unfortunately the architecture they hired couldn’t figure out how to do so. What do they say about hindsight?
So yes, for now this is the new normal. The smell of Lysol wipes, bleach and green virosal greet us every morning. There’s a shortage of masks in our area, I’m bringing in two boxes of unopened nitrile gloves I have that were left over from a prior medical procedure. We met yesterday, if mask & gown shortages continue, our doctors may stop doing neuters.
Life, no matter how strange, goes on. Am I frightened, sometimes (I’m 61 & have MS).
My manager gave me the option to stay home but honestly feel better in the company of my coworkers.
Yesterday was my birthday; my gift – a six pack of toilet paper! A little humor goes a long way. Reading the adventures of Tony, Emily and their family also helps greatly, so keep the stories coming! We need you all !
Stay safe & wash your hands!
I was a ff/emt until last year when I retired for health. Also am ex-military. Everything inside is telling me to reactivate and go out and help. My brain stopped me with reality. I’d just be a liability. Whoever you have faith in that should relieve some anxiety, valium, cannabis, alcohol should take care of the rest. I do worry about my grandkids. Irresponsible selfish, people are the ones that scare me. Be safe and stay healthy.
Just watched the show of Emily leaving one of the most compassionate and caring people i have ever seen
Concerned but not panicking. Not understanding the grocery store chaos. There in no food shortage in USA. No paper shortage. Panicking does no good. I am buying what I need. No excuses for hoarding. It is time for sharing. We go out only for work & picking up necessities. It is a flu that currently has no vaccine yet, but we will. As for your daughter with asthma, be sure to practice social distancing & washing hands. We will get through this.
Hi Tony and Dr Emily!
I’m a retired respiratory therapist and severe steroid dependent asthmatic. As far as India goes, teach her and all your kids to wash their hands. when everyone comes home from being out, strip down and wash clothes before going indoors. wear a mask, bandana, something over mouth and nose when out. consider getting her an air purifier ie HEPA filter for her room. (Amazon)
If you do stay home with the kids Tony, and Emily is still working, designate her as the shopper etc. Keep India away from public places.
Just a few tips I’ve learned dealing with my asthma.
Im 57 years old now.
Hanging out with Ginny Bug my cattle dog mix.
My daughter’s graduation from college has been cancelled for May 9th and postponed until September or October.
Hang in there and be well.
Thank you for all the tips, we’re hanging in there and hope you are too