I didn’t sleep much last night and the morning came too early. Last day of work before my employer is closed under the state requirements. I’ve been becoming increasingly numb the past two months. I knew what we had awaiting us if it hit here. I have a friend stationed in South Korea – and they’re the only country who seems to be handling this particularly well. Certainly better than what happened in Italy, at least.

I’m giving myself a couple of days after I clock out this afternoon to decompress, to apply to whatever aid I’m allowed that the city may be offering. I may be considering any of the needed open positions at grocery stores right now. It’s money and it’s a needed service to my community. As long as I’m well, I can help. But the numbers of the infected are going to keep growing especially if we aren’t able to keep things reasonable and keep social distancing as a practice.

The buses are going to be a little more empty today and the days following, I’ve no doubt, and it’s eerie. Empty streets of Seattle and no one should enter the city if they don’t need to be here. I am glad for people what’s best for all of us, and sad for the effects this virus outbreak is having on this city that I love. For those who are still working essential jobs, I raise my coffee tankard to you today.

Stay safe and be well.