Stuck in Traffic

Its happened to all of us.  When entering a limited access highway, we see an overhead sign that reads basically "This road closes in 7 miles".  Yeah yeah yeah, the traffic is moving at the posted speed or above and you say to yourself, "that must be old news, it looks pretty open".  So, you get on anyway and find yourself abruptly stopped, dead in about 5 miles.  That's it no movement and a freeway full of cars and 18 wheelers across 4 lanes of traffic. And then we sit.  You call yourself unpleasant names and curse your bad judgment.  You also think of the other route you considered which would have been on city streets but would be progressing nicely. And you wait.  The car is moving 5 feet at a time.  You read the signage on the trucks sitting there with you and wonder what they are hauling. And you sit. "I am going to be mature and not lash out or curse" because it would frankly be futile. Also in the meantime your 70 year old bladder is filling up as you are approaching the 3 hour mark in your struggle.  And still you remain calm.  We all have had that feeling.  

Our trip was to the VA for my wife to get an ID card so she could obtain services that she earned from her time in the U.S. Navy.  And....things finally open up and we get to our destination. Find parking, down the elevator and to the entrance that says Veterans Only.  Stop for a moment and think about that statement in my shoes. I did not serve.  Fortunately for me there was a greeter of sorts and after my heartfelt explanation, she directed me to the men's room.

Other than that, the day was calm, making dinner for kids, watching TV again and dealing with Harry.  Judy was working with Katey on some paperwork and I took the time to message friends on FB Messenger reconnecting with folks also enduring the lockdown and restrictive movements which was fun. All sent back extensive responses so we all must be in the same boring boat.  I have told a bunch of people about Humans of New York as I have found the stories to be fascinating and sometimes touching.  

It snowed here last night.  The weatherman makes it sound like "snowmageden". Its Michigan, its February, it snows. This guy gives us updates every ten minutes with graphics that mean nothing to me about the leading edge, a snowmaker, and organized storm etc.  It snowed and will be plowed and shoveled.  Its only 3 inches. This isn't New Jersey where they close schools, churches and stores when there is a dusting. 

So, put your boots on and pull the hat over your ears or do nothing and stay inside.

all for now 

stay safe