Pat Taub
Election Insanity
Thanks to the Goddess that the Presidential election will soon be resolved, as the ballots from Pennsylvania and other battle ground states are expected to be counted very soon. Now we have to wait and see if Trump accepts the results. If not, I’m prepared to join any peaceful protests that ensue. A Biden win doesn’t mean we can relax. He will have to be pushed, and pushed hard, towards a Green New Deal and Medicare for all. Fingers crossed that there is a peaceful transition to the White House.
The Queen’s Gambit
Like many of you, I’ve turned to Netflix in search of refuge from election tensions. This week I was delighted to loose myself in the series. “The Queen’s Gambit.” It’s the story of Beth Harmon, a chess prodigy. While in grade school she beats much older high school champions. Beth keeps winning, taking her to Russia to play the existing world champion, where she is victorious, becoming in her early twenties, the world’s best chess player.
Covid Spike
Maine, like the rest of the country is experiencing record daily highs in Covid infections. New lockdown orders are in effect, which means bar openings scheduled for this week have been postponed. (I realize bars are a big economic driver, but am puzzled that they are prioritized.) My dim hopes of traveling to Chicago to be with family for Xmas have been squashed. My inconveniences are paltry compared to those without work and monies to meet rent payments and to buy groceries for their kids. When will we see a relief package? As a country we face a humanitarian crisis, which Congress ignores.
Dr. Nirav Shah, Maine CDC director, whose steady guidance is responsible for Maine’s ability to contain Covid
An Usually Warm Fall
Climate change brought record temps this past summer. The trend continues into the fall. I agonize over our country’s failure to address climate change, but relish days like today, when the temps are reported to hit 60. Outdoor walks on country roads help to settle my frazzled nerves.
A Daunting Task
Almost seven years ago my ex died suddenly after falling in the ice. Marvin and I were on good terms. I miss him to this day. Recently my oldest son mailed me some of his father’s ashes, which I plan to scatter at my country house this weekend. Marvin loved gardens, so I will scatter his ashes among my flowerbeds. A daunting task, but an overdue one.
My ex, Marvin with sons, Jonathan and David and Granddaughter, Jane, 2006
