how about drinking?

Cami, so sorry about the sudden loss of your cousin. May his memory be for a blessing.

Karen, good advice--but I don't feel I need to respect people's opinions that are based on rejection of science and on political social media misinformation and conspiracy theories. I will respect people's decisions that are driven by personal necessity (NOT mere preference) and not by conspiracy theories, celebrities, cult figures or "influencers" (be they in or out of actual power).

Had the last of that Austrian Grüner Veltliner tonight with shrimp remoulade I made. I have a different Grüner (2 bottles) on the way from Williams-Selyem, the famous Sonoma pinot noir winery. Also ordered 2 of their rosé of pinot noir. Normally, these wines are sold only at the tasting room, unavailable to even their "list members." But circumstances being what they are, the winery is closed to the public.

Cami - sorry to hear about your cousin. He was so long. I'm editing my post as I first read as he had a heart attack, not that he passed away. I hope your memories bring you comfort.

Tomorrow is May!!! I hope it doesn't seem like an eternity as March and April did!

DOTD your choice of 3. Kombucha Cocktails.

1. Green Kombucha Vodka Cooler

Make cucumber juice by grating 1 cup of English cucumber into a fine sieve set over a bowl, squeeze juice out of cucumber. For each drink, add 2 Tbsp. of cucumber juice, 1 1/2 oz. vodka and 1 tsp. honey in a glass and stir. Fill glass 3/4's full with ice and set half slices of kiwi and fresh basil or mint leaves. Top up the drink with multi-green-flavoured kombucha. Garnish with a skewer of thinly sliced cucumber and a slice of kiwi, and serve.

2. Kombucha Mango Daquiris

For two daiquiris, add 1 cup mango-flavoured kombucha, 1 cup fresh mango, peeled and cubed, 3 oz. white rum and 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice to a blender and pulse until smooth. Add 1 1/2 cups ice cubes and blend until smooth. Serve in two chilled martini or other decorative glasses. Garnish with lime slices and wedges of mango.

3. Kombucha Berry Mojito

For each drink, place 1 1/2 oz. white rum, 1 tsp honey and 12 mint leaves into a tall glass. Use a cocktail muddler, or the end of a long spoon, to stir the mint and release its flavour and aroma. Fill glass 3/4's full with ice. Add fresh berries to the glass and top up with berry-flavored kombucha and serve.

Good Morning, Loungettes!Happy TGIF day! I've gotten 1/3 through my night shift stint, and am remembering why I got off night shift work! The work itself isn't bad, slower pace, quieter. Much less drama. I was able to nap some during the day Wednesday, but not as much as I would have liked, so I was very tired by the time I got out yesterday ayem. I definitely slept pretty well off and on yesterday and last night. I've got to run out this afternoon and pick up some groceries and my order from the Farmer's Market Drop off. One of the pandemic changes I hadn't thought about was the change in hours most stores have made. I'm used to stores being open on the way home from work (not an issue when working day shift) but with them not opening until 8 or even 9 ayem now, and I got off at 7. So no picking up groceries on the way home like I planned. Probably just as well, I was so tired I would have forgotten the important stuff anyway. And today is the day that some business can open up again following a checklist of "mitigation practices".Come to find out, all a business has to do is download the checklist and then say they are following it, no one from the state will be checking!The now standard 6 foot social distancing rules are still in place, as well as a new must wear a face covering "when social distancing will be difficult" ,I have a feeling my trip out this afternoon will be educational. I have to admit that I was very glad to see the sign announcing the opening of the Drive In Theater that I go by on the way to work! On the other hand, nothing will change for us working in long term care for at least the end of June, and probably later. Working wearing a mask is not fun, and not comfortable, and is beginning to cause its own set of problems (sinus infections and respiratory irritation from inhaling the chemical infused paper particles, sore ears from the loops (although there are a lot of ways to address that now), and facial rashes and breakouts from the constant moisture and rubbing against the masks. In normal use, when there are places where you can take the mask off for a break, when the mask is changed frequently so it doesn't get so wet, this isn't so much of a problem. When the really warm weather comes this is going to be an even bigger problem. Still, it's what is needed, so it's what we'll do. The scary news, the homeless shelter that is in the same building complex as my nursing home, just announced 21 positive tests among guests and staff. And a local firefighter went to a fire the other night, then died at home of cardiac arrest, and the Maine CDC is investigating as a possible COVID-19 related death. I wish I knew the details of this situation.

Jazzy--I think rogue business opening will be a common thing before too much longer. Here in Maine there are vast areas with fewer than 5 confirmed cases, compared to the areas that are urban and have hundreds in a fraction of the space. The idea that we all have to open things at the rate that is safe for the urban areas is rubbing the wrong way. The 14 day quarantine upon entering the state is going to hold at least through August, so the tourist season is pretty much closed down, and with it most of the state's economy for this year. Opening up more things to local use, at least,would take some of the edge off, especially since much of the summer work force is from out of the state or country it would open up some work for locals to replace what has been lost. I am glad that no cruise ships carrying more than 50 passengers will be allowed to stop locally. Influxes of 2 to 3 thousand people in a few hours every few days makes for a lot of complications and problems, too.

Chi--you have a good point about how shopping will change when all this is over. I am going to go back to carrying a little spray bottle of alcohol to use on items before touching. Thanks for the info about "cremant".I had heard that a wine can only be called Champagne if made in a certain area of France,

Karen--I saw that on Fb, and think it's wonderful. It's a complicated and convoluted situation.

Goldie--what do you do with the mice?I wonder what part of Maine that customer lives in? There may be some places right along the coast that can be planting outside of greenhouses, but there's still plenty of time to get a garden in! Putting a covering on something makes it easier to clean and is a good step, but a better one would be to put a bottle of sanitizer next to the machine for people to use when they are done. More effective, easier, and in the long run, probably cheaper. And people have got to get used ot the idea that they need to take care of themselves and not depend on others to take care of them. The first couple of night shifts went well.I'm 1/3 done now and already will be glad when it's over. I've always admired the bartering process, such a great way for everyone to get what they need (or want) with no losers! That Midnight Rider sounds very yummy!

Cammy Cat--aw, kitten week!Oh, Cammy, I am so sorry to hear about your cousin. Hugs. Sadie said to send some belly rubs and hand licks.

Jazzy--It is going to be interesting to see how businesses change due to all this. I wonder how many drive through places will bring back the 2 window system, so the same person isn't handling money and food?

Welcome PeregrineLady!

Librarian--So glad to hear the TMs are down and things are under control! I hear you about enjoying the few and far between interactions! I know I'm an introvert, and I am really surprised how much I miss those little interactions during checkouts. In Maine stores may now sell mixed drinks for take away, as long as they also sell food, check IDs and the drink is sealed. I can't wait to get some food and a drink from one of my favorite places to take home after work!Gotta wait until I'm back on day shift, though. Outdoor activities will be able to open up again very soon here, as well as some of the parks and other outdoor spaces. Easy to social distance in the woods or on a lake!

Chi--I had a rose of pinot noir not long ago that was wonderful! I've got to check out my supply and see if I have any more and bring one up to open if I do.

Celia--My condolences on your DH's brother's passing. So sad. Are any states other than Maine mandating a quarantine for people coming into the state?

Short pause for power outage, now that power's back I can finish!

Karen--I do hope May goes faster than April!

Goldie--I'm managing pretty well. Right now I'm contemplating a message the scheduler left f orme, asking me to cover nights for 2 additional weeks. The upside is that most of the shifts are 8 hours instead of 12. I've got to call her back and get more details before I decide anything. I do like the more peaceful atmosphere at night. Pretty Kombucha Cocktails!

Lori - I missed that word. I went back and edited my post. I feel bad about my comment

Hi everyone 😁 I’m sure you all know how hard keeping up is when you’re struggling and I still am but there are some small improvements happening, so trying to be patient. I bought a small pool for my yard and it really turned me around. I also met with docs again about the vocal cord and was told it would likely take 6 month, not 3 to heal. I am disappointed but glad to have more realistic expectations. The vomiting is also being controlled better now, so I don’t feel as weak as I did a couple of weeks ago. Anyway, I wanted to pop in and say hi, I miss you all and I’ll check in more often.

Minus, big thanks for being awesome 👏

NM, I give kudos to you for wearing that mask for so many hours. I can't stand it for an hour in the store. As for the critters, my driveway is probably 1/4 mile long, so I walk down to the end, go out the gate and dump them in an opening so the ravens can see them, and they get a snack! That customer that was complaining that lives in ME is in Stockton Springs, which I think is about an hour from you. 2 more weeks of the night shift eh. Well, if you do, at least you will be more acclimated.

Karen, your comment was an honest mistake and Cami would have understood, I figured you would edit it, I would have too.

Jazzy, pretty picture with your cocktail. Love the glass.

BabyGirl, glad to see you check in. Hoping all will go well over the next couple of months and you can get some complete healing. What a ride! How long has it been? Pewl looks refreshing, enjoy.

Well, I looked at my labs, and as usual my TM's have skyrocketed yet again! CA 15-3 is up to 880 (normal is less than 30). CA27.29 is 1027, normal is less than 37. Have appt. with MO on Friday. Went out to the garden yesterday morning to check on things and something ate one of my pepper plants that was like a foot tall.....grrrrrr! I only had 2 to begin with. I'm thinking squirrel, not a mouse for sure and I don't even think a rat.

Ill- it is good to see you here and know your recovery is slow, which is hard. I love the little pool you have to relax in and help you along the way. I love water, I find it very healing and miss being able to swim in my city pool, go to hot springs, etc. That being said, I have become very fond of a good hot shower at the end of most days.

Sending much love for continued healing and recovery to you sister

Just poopin in for a minute.

Illi so glad to read u, sorry it's going to take longer but some things are a little better and ur pool looks Mahvelus Darlink.

There was no question in my mind Kim u would agree cuz u know they need you, not cu it's 8 hrs. u silly.

And Karen I would not take offense in an way believe me.

Oh Lori I'm sorry about ur numbers, what can I say.Back at the top ofmy list for prayers. <<<HUGS>>>

This whole house is teetering with tears and we opened our borders. OMH Dan came over last nite and stayed about 3 hrs. Katy Marty's cousin who's been very close with Leslie and even more so with Nicky <get it> has been here and here now. Damn Nicky is trying to take us with him.

I'll be back just tired right now.

NM, the other funny thing about the ME customer, was that he said he would just buy locally. Well, what he bought from me, you can't buy anywhere else! We do have deer and rabbits, but they can't get into my garden. The cedar fence goes all the way around. Deer won't jump it cuz they can't see what is on the other side. Rabbits can't dig under it cuz we ran chicken wire down the fence (just near the bottom) and then out about a foot, covered with gravel. So a rabbit will dig right at the fence, and he will hit the chicken wire. Make sense? So what are your hours for the 8 hour shift. I don't know how you do 12 hours! Maybe with the 8 hour shift it will be a bit easier to juggle the other things, shopping and things around the house.

Cami, even with the death of a loved one, still find a way to joke. "Nicky trying to take ya's with himn".

I'm just trying to stay out of the rabbit hole and all I have to do is think of you BabyGirl, and then I feel guilty for being depressed. Here you are so young and have gone through SO MUCH, and here I am, almost 62, stage IV for almost 6 years and no pain. I just have to get over this bump and I'll be ok. Running out of options for treatment and I don't think I'll do IV chemo.

Hi everyone- happy Sunday afternoon. Keeping tabs on things here and everyone sounds mostly okay. It's really pretty here right now and lots of color with blooms in the gardens. We have had a heat wave going on with temps in the low 90s which is hot for this time of the year (more like June-July weather). No rain in sight either, which we could get a good soaking day of rain. Our last moisture was in mid April with a rain turned to snow storm. I am working to keep up with the watering.

We seem to be past our peak here in the state, and cases are still there, but not rising as fast. Still a big problem out to the west and they have the roads in and out of Gallup near the Navaho nation closed off and trying to get them the help they need. A friend who works for one of the big hospitals here says they are bringing more patients in to the city for care.

New Mexico is slowly opening up a few businesses with expanded curbside pick up for non-essential businesses. That started on Friday. I am still going out mostly for food and scripts, although I did go do a quick drive by to say goodbye to a friend yesterday who is leaving town permanently. My chance to say goodbye before she moved back east with her family. I went by Whole Foods but the line was absurd. I see half the people with masks, the others not.

Cami- I think a sudden loss is the hardest, and when someone is young-ish, even harder. Feel free to talk about him all you want and your sweet memories together. Tears are very healing too, we need to cry for and about many things these days. Sending you much love friend.

JCS- I love your wind spinner. I have looked at those before and may go for one one of these days if I can figure out where it would be best to locate. Nice to enjoy without any maintenance. I prune my trees, shrubs, etc. every year as they need it. They also stay health that way.

Goldie- I hope your little buddy's mom can make it through and/or that they have thought about who he can be with otherwise. Always a hard thing with adult children that need care. I hope you are staying cool and enjoy the spring.

NM- I am glad your shifts are shorter with the night work. Those long shifts which are so common right now in this time are exhausting. I am hoping you are having some good time at home this weekend and Miss Sadie is keeping you entertained.

How is the weather? No more snow? How is your mom doing too? Did your brother delay his move or are they gone now?

Celia C, ChiSandy, Karen, Ill, Mistyeyes, Yoga, who else am I missing?

Hope everyone has had a decent weekend and staying well.

You’re sweet Goldie and I appreciate the sympathy but there’s no need to feel guilty. I’m just trying to get over my bump too and the fact that my current situation is the worst thing I’ve ever been through is a testament to what a nice and easy life I’ve had so far. I may never get old but I’ll always be awesome, lol

JCS, love the spinner. Do you mind me asking what you paid for it and where you got it. The ones I have seen were quite pricey, like $500 and up, but they are pretty big. What is the diameter of yours, about 2'?

Jazzy, it is sad to see how bad it is on the reservations. Most don't have adequate water even and I've seen the road closures. We travel through the reservation when we go to Moab, up 191. Certainly that would not be closed? Beautuful spring blooms here too.

Hey there Lil Doity Butt, glad to see you poop in. Can you send ma a picture of Sophia, would love to see her. Glad you are staying put.

Babygirl, you ARE awesome! I love that.

Goldie- I think what roads are closed depends on each state and their governor. Here in NM, any of the roads into Grants are closed and expect the exits off I-40 would be. I would check AZ and UT maps apps to see what is open before you go. I think anything around the Navaho reservation may be closed for the foreseeble future.

Good Morning, Loungettes!Happy Twofer Tuesday! I almost said Happy Hump day!I've had to go back to crossing off days on the calendar to keep track of where I am. The last two night shifts were very nice, very low key, no drama, helpful and interesting people to work with. It's going to spoil me for next couple that will no doubt be full of drama and angst, considering who is working with me. Oh, well, such is the life of a working girl, right? I was able to get some of my day job work done, too, which was really good. And now that it has finally warmed up enough to turn the heat off and leave the kitchen door open, Sadie is less mad at me for working the long shifts. I rather suspect she sleeps through the night anyway, but she does have a reputation to maintain and far be it for me cast aspersions! I've got to get out and check the bulb garden today, I think I saw some foliage peeking through the dirt the other morning. And the daffodils next to the house have blossomed. Spring has sprung!Hmm, I'm drinking coffee with ashot of Kahlua at 9:00 ayem, what does that say about me???

Cammy Cat--ok, so I agreed to work nights longer cuz of the need, but I did negotiate for the 8 hours instead of 12 cuz that's what I need!The social isolation is getting hard on everybody. I have such mixed feelings myself, I want to be able to go out and do things, I want to keep my family and residents safe, and I want to be able to hug! I swear, when things open up some more and someone hugs me for the first time in weeks and weeks I will probably dissolve into tears and totally fall apart! I cannot imagine what I would be like without Sadie to cuddle.

Chi--Congrats on beating the weight goal! Glad you found some basil plants, too. I love the smell of basil when it's being watered.

Goldie--The fencing and chicken wire at the bottom sounds pretty effective to me! As to buying local, I try to buy local as much as possible, but some things just aren't realistic to buy locally due to price or availability or, face it, convenience. The 8 hour shift is the traditional 11 peeyem to 7 ayem, meaning start work at 10:30 peeyem to get report and do the narc count.It will be easier cuz I won't be on my feet for as many hours, I can manage sleep better with a nap right before going it to work, and it's easier for not starting work right at supper time with all the business that comes with meal times. And it gives me more time to do things like shopping during the day. Staying out of the rabbit hole is important and oh, so hard at times.

Librarian--great way to get in exercise, doing something that also saves money! Windspinners are wonderful things to have in the yard, I can watch them for hours. Those plus wind chimes, my idea of peaceful and entertaining at the same time! Some places are being allowed to open up with restrictions as of last Friday, and many are doing so. I'm going to keep doing what I'm doing for a bit to see what happens.Maine's confirmed cases count jumped from just over 1000 to 1200 in just one day, so I'm not so sure if things are slowing down or just getting to the peak. With all the protesting going on and still not having truly adequate testing practices (I'm not sure it's supply related so much any more as docs just not ordering tests like the guidelines suggest) I'm worried what is going to happen here. I do think we need more local decisions than state-wide, though. In my own county there are areas that are pretty much free from the virus and places like the town I work in that are practically hot spots, and I think different levels of restriction are appropriate.But I'm not in the decision making seat for this one, and I am glad I'm not. Way too many unknowns.

Jazzy--Sadie is keeping me entertained. And only 2 more 12 hour shifts before dropping to 8 hours. Well, there is one 12 hour shift on the 18th, that was a compromise, but only that one in the 2 week run. Then I'll be back on days just in time for the next phase of reopening the economy, which probably won't have any effect on the nursing home. Or management may choose to extend current measures if they are lightened up.New newest hot spot is a homeless shelter only 1/4 mile from our building. The weather has warmed up enough to turn off the heat most of the time and so I can leave the kitchen door open for Sadie to go in and out when I'm not home, which makes me feel less guilty for working 12 hour shifts. No snow predicted locally, but there could be snow in the next weather front coming through this weekin the northern part of the state and in the mountains. Mom is doing ok, Dick is doing about the same. My brother and his wife did move just as all of this was beginning. They are staying with people he knows from work, have found a house to buy and are working around the travel restrictions to try to close on the trailer they left behind so they can close on the new house. Then they plan to put in a pool. They've been swimming in the pool where they are staying already, and I am so jealous! I'm not sure how they will handle the heat and humidity of summer, but we'll see. I'm looking forward to going to visit them.Mom says she's going to drive down to visit them, but last time she went to visit them she got lost and that was still in Maine, so we're trying to talk her out of driving. But she wants to have her own car so she can come and go as she pleases (where is she going to go? "I don't know, but I might want to go somewhere").If she does try to drive I am going to find a way to get a GPS tracker on her car or on her phone or something so we can keep track of where she is cuz if she gets into trouble she will have no idea where she is, I can guarantee.

Mema!Oh, my goodness, Sofia is walking! You must love those pics and videos.I know the lock-down stuff is crazy and hard. I'll be glad when it's over and I'm scared what will happen when it ends, too. Life will never be the same, I think.

Illi--you are awesome, indeed!

Morning, Karen!

Godlie--WOW, beautiful and very yummy sounding!

Chi--Glad DH had fewer COVID contacts this time around. I've heard about the Epic electronic medical record system, its universally hated by clinicians and adored by billing departments.