My Week That Was - March 21

Updated Coronavirus warning signs - updated to show
no visitors permitted.  3/17/2020  dwm photo

I'm pretty sure the first two days of my week were the fewest miles traveled over a weekend in very long time.

There was a quick run to the hardware store and gas station Saturday.  Because of the Coronavirus, our church and dozens of others shared their message online and kept the doors closed.

Cross Lutheran in Middleton had a 20 minute video with our Pastor offering prayer and message from his study.  We also virtually went to church in Carmel, Indiana at Cornerstone Lutheran Church which streamed a full contemporary service. 

My parents were members of Cornerstone (formerly known as Carmel Lutheran Church), and our son and his wife are there now.  I think their online service, which you can play at any time, is as close to being in church from home as possible.

Monday is typically my day on Oakwood's east campus.  Because of concerns over the virus, every employee entered through the same door to have their temperature taken and confirm we were OK and did not travel out of the country or any place where the virus is infecting large numbers of people.

Just 30 minutes later I learned that Oakwood wants employees who serve on both campuses to stick to one.  That was the first I heard that decision, and neither had my boss.

I enjoy seeing the folks at Prairie Ridge and hope to make in-person visits soon.  In the meantime, I am doing visits over the phone.

Literally every day brought a new development on dealing with the virus.  Tuesday, our campus restaurants switched to carry-out or delivery only and the Governor declared those same rules apply to restaurants statewide.

You can't avoid talking about or hearing about the virus; although the ups and downs of the stock market isn't far behind with many of the people I visit.  It adds up to tumultuous and nerve-wracking times.

After the Governor declared no gatherings of 10 or more people, Anytime Fitness closed its gyms.  I decided after Monday's workout not to go until the virus moves on.

I'm trying to come up with a new routine in the interim.  It's too dark to bike for my taste and I'd rather not run outside.  There are exercises I can do at home while looking forward to warmer weather and (eventually) the gym opening.

Early voting Verona City Hall
3/19/2020  dwm photo

Thursday in a move that was coronavirus related, I voted early.  The state primary is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7.  There is some talk the state might follow others and delay election day.

I'm not sure what state officials will do, but either way my ballot is in for my favorite candidate and helps decide the outcome of the state Supreme Court race; a school board seat, and a statewide referendum.

The last time I voted "early," I was in college and cast an absentee ballot in Wisconsin's 1984 general election while in college.

Friday, there was one more virus related opportunity.  It was the 56th day since I last gave blood, so I was eligible.  Community blood drives have been cancelled due to the virus, so the blood supply is dangerously low.

If you're healthy, find a Red Cross, Blood Center, or another organization - roll up your sleeve and give.  For me, giving was a way to help others and fight a raging virus.

Please give and be safe this week.