Karen

NaNoWriMo2020

Dree’s Pre-Story

November 8, 2020November 7, 2020 Karen

Dree studied her reflection in the mirror. Her cheeks were sunken in and she had dark circles around her eyes. She turned her head from side to side and casually smeared a droplet of blood dripping from her mouth across her chin.

She smiled.

“Wow. You look dead.”

She spun in her chair and grinned.

“Sick! You blackened your teeth!” Riley fully came into her room and plopped down on her bed.

“Does it look like I eat brains for breakfast?” She laughed while reaching for her wig.

“Totally. What do you think about my costume?”

She crunched up a dead leaf in her hand and rubbed it into her raggedy wig. “Love it. It really looks like some big zombie dude grabbed you by the head and ripped it off your shoulders. You need more blood though. Hang on.” She tucked her hair into her wig cap, bent forward, tugged the wig on and then sat back up, her long, black hair curling around her shoulders. “Wigs are so freakin’ hot.” She adjusted it more comfortably then reached for her fake blood. She got up and moved toward him. She began to smear blood around the corners of his mouth and ran a finger down his chin and neck.

“I wish they weren’t going to be there,” he whispered staring her straight in the eyes.

She shrugged. “Yeah. Me too. We would have more fun if they weren’t there, but whatever. We’re going to have fun regardless of the shit they pull tonight.” She backed away and smiled. “Perfect. You look like a headless person now. Bravo.”

He got up to look at himself in the mirror. “Yeah. Good job.” He turned to face her, his face falling serious. “You’re driving us, right?”

“That’s the plan short stuff.” She paused while putting her theatrical makeup away. “Did something happen again?” She turned to look over her shoulder at him.

“Not really. Just the same shit. This bruise here?” He pointed to his temple. “That’s not makeup.”

She narrowed her eyes and slammed the last of her makeup in her backup. “He’s such an asshole.”

“I’m so glad you’re living here, Dree. I don’t know how I would …” he trailed off. Dree reached out and ruffled his hair. “Don’t sweat it, short stuff. We’re a team. You’re not getting rid of me. Besides, this is the first time in months I’ve had a roof over my head and a real bed to sleep in. Why would I give that up?”

He smiled and nodded. “Okay. Let’s go have some fun.”

“Agreed. Come on.” She grabbed her purse and they exited the bedroom.

“Wow. You guys look great!” Mandy paused stirring the punch she planned on taking to the party and apprised them both. “Definitely scary looking.”

Dree bowed and Riley howled in mock pain.

“Pretty sure you guys will win the costume contest.”

Dree shrugged and tried to hide her pleased smile. “I don’t know, you’re looking pretty great yourself. Bride of Frankenstein?”

Mandy laughed. “Yeah. Let’s go with that. I think that’s my official costume but I’m not sure I actually carried it off. But I thought, what the hell, if Richard could go as Frankenstein then it seemed like a no brainer to go as his bride.”

“Oh. Is Dick coming?” Dree gave Riley the side eye. She hadn’t really anticipated Dick coming, she was hoping he would think a Halloween party was beneath him but whatever, they would just avoid him.

“Yeah. He decided to go at the last minute.” Many shrugged. “Seems weird, really. He has never seemed interested in going in year’s past.”

Dree sighed. He was going because she was going to be there. She never should have told him she was thinking of going. She silently berated herself for her stupidity.

“Okay. I guess we’ll see you there,” Dree said. She motioned for Riley to follow her.

“Oh. You guys are driving? I thought we could all go together.” Mandy looked wounded.

“Nah. That’s okay, Mandy. We may not want to stay as late as you guys so I’ll drive me and Riley. Did you want us to take anything?” She looked out over the spread on the kitchen table. It was covered with wrapped candy apples.

“Oh actually, yes.” Mandy glanced over shoulder and pulled out a carboard box. She began putting the apples into the box. “If you could take these, that would be great. This cider isn’t quite ready so …” she trailed off and Dree helped her load the apples.

Dree could sense Riley stiffening beside her. Dick had entered the room.

“Hey. What’s going on?” He moved to stand next to Dree. He reeked of pot and beer. Someone had started the party early.

“Just loading up the apples, Richard,” said Mandy. “Dree is driving them over. We’ll meet up with them later.”

“Nope. I’m driving all of us,” said Dick.

Riley practically threw the last apple into the box as Dree hugged it close to her chest and pulled it off the table. She completely ignored Dick.

“Let’s go Riley.”

Dick moved to block her. “I said I would drive us.”

Dree stared at his chest. She could feel the anger bubbling up inside her. She moved to sidestep Dick only for him to step back in front of her. She stood for long seconds before lifting to meet his eyes. She didn’t even bother hiding her disgust. He smirked down at her.

“Move, Dick.” She emphasized his name to imply that he was acting like a dick, too. He reached out as if to take the box from her.

“I can put this in the car,” said Dick, a challenging light in his eyes. Riley cowered back, his eyes volleying back and forth between them with fear.

“Oh my gosh!” Mandy yelled while moving toward the stove. Her cider was beginning to bubble over. Her cry of alarm was enough to distract Dick long enough for Dree to pull free of his grasp and slide past him.

“Hey!” Dick called after them.

“Let them go, Richard,” said Mandy. “We’ll catch up. No big deal,” she placated him.

Dree didn’t stick around to hear anymore. She kicked open the door and hurried down the front steps, Riley close on her heels.

“God, I hate him,” Dree muttered between clenched teeth.

“Yeah,” Riley said and opened the back door of her Chevy Malibu so Dree could shove the box of apples into the back seat.

“He’s not that bad,” said Riley. “He doesn’t hit me as often as my last foster family.”

Dree sighed and buckled her seat belt. “I don’t even know where to start with that statement.” She started the car and backed out of the driveway. She saw the front door open and accelerated. She slammed on her brakes when she heard a car horn, uncomfortably close, honk at her. The car continued to blast it’s horn as it maneuvered around her.

“Jesus!” Riley shouted, putting out both hands to catch himself before hitting the dashboard.

Dree gritted her teeth and stared at Dick. He was illuminated by the porch light and she could see his knowing smirk even from her distance.

“Riley. We’re not moving until you buckle up.”

“Damn Dree. You nearly killed us.” He reached around and snapped the belt into place.

“Yeah, sorry dude. I wasn’t expecting Dick to open the door. I thought he might come running after us.”

Riley studied her for long moments, but kept silent.

Dree forced herself to take deep, calming breaths. He was not going to hurt her again. She was ready for him if he tried. She had been working out at Jimbo’s Gym for several months and she had never felt stronger. She was also noticing muscles that hadn’t been there before. She also taught herself to use a punching bag. If she wasn’t at school or working, you could find her at the gym. In fact, she kept most of her clothes at the gym, the only thing she had at Mandy and Dick’s house were PJ’s and a toothbrush. Though she appreciated having a roof over her head and a comfy bed, she didn’t feel comfortable living with them. After the incident, she insisted on them putting a lock on her door. She had had to convince Mandy that one was necessary without telling her that her asshole husband was the reason she needed one.

She spent many long hours at the gym obsessively working out after the attack, trying to sweat the memory of him touching her out of her body. Jimbo watched her work herself into utter exhaustion before approaching her late one night.

“What’s up, kid?”

She had stopped punching the bag, putting a hand out to stop it’s forward momentum before reaching over to grab a towel and wipe the sweat from her face. “Nothing. Just blowing off some steam.”

“You have a lot of steam.”

She shrugged and moved to step past him and make her way to the locker room.

“I’ve worked with enough damaged people to recognize the signs.”

Dree froze in place. Her heart began to pound and she focused on breathing evenly. How would he know? She hadn’t told a soul. In fact, she worked extra hard to appear as normal as she could. Or at least, as normal as she thought people expected. She turned to face him.

“I’m fine, Jimbo.”

“Sure kid. I don’t believe you, but okay. Tell you what,” he reached for the disinfectant and began spraying down the punching bag. “Let’s get you into some kickboxing classes.”

“Kickboxing?” She tilted her head. She had seen several girls in the ring learning kickboxing but she had never thought she had the coordination to try it.

“I think you would be a natural. And if you need to defend yourself, there’s really no better way.” He paused cleaning the bag and gave her a knowing look.

He knew. She didn’t know how he knew, but he did. In some ways, she felt relieved that he knew but they didn’t have to talk about it. She smirked and nodded her head once in agreement. Jimbo had made sure she got into a class and came to check on her from time-to-time. That was four months ago. She wasn’t nearly as good as most of the people in her class but Jimbo had been right – she felt stronger and more prepared to defend herself, if she needed to.

She hoped she never had to.

Continue reading “Dree’s Pre-Story” →

Politics

The Constitution Does Not Grant the Legacy Left-Wing Media the Right to Call an Election

November 7, 2020November 7, 2020 Karen

Please remain calm. This is not over. It will be investigated and reviewed in the courts for quite some time.

“Nothing has changed on the political front, nothing has changed on the campaign front, the only thing that has changed is on the media front.”

The media does not have the right to call an election. And if it’s determined that Trump is the winner, the media is once again setting the stage for violence and more riots. I can’t even blame people’s naivete anymore. I mean, people do not critically think for themselves and they only listen to what they want to hear, but the media is the entity that warped them. We have GOT to do something about this out-of-control media. They blatantly lie, censor opposing opinions and purposefully broadcast their own agendas and people STILL trust them. It truly amazes me that ANYBODY still listens to anything they have to say anymore. And this includes Fox News.

What a colossal disappointment Fox News has become. That anchor had NO RIGHT, NONE, to call Arizona for Biden before all of the votes came in. Even CNN acknowledged that fact.

Anyway. Social media has gone absolutely crazy with the assumption that Biden has won. Do not let that get you down. It will be days, if not weeks, before this is sorted out and the truth is finally revealed. My advice? Get off social media. Stay away from Twitter. In fact, get off Twitter and Facebook altogether. They are corrupt organizations who exist solely to suppress you. Sorry if that sounds dramatic, but it’s true.

If Trump wins, this is going to be get so ugly. People will feel embarrassed and confused and they will lash out as they only know how to do – with violence. I fear left-leaning folks have not been taught self control and they will lose their minds if that happens. Do not be afraid, but be cautious.

One last thing – have you SEEN the number of people spilling out into the streets across cities all over the country?

There are pictures of people passing bottles of alcohol around to each other as well. Strangers, directly sharing germs.

I guess COVID is over??

Did we not predict COVID would be over if the Democrats won?

You have to see, YOU HAVE TO RECOGNIZE, that we have been set up! This has all be a set up from the first of the year for this very moment in time. The pandemic, the chaos, the mail-in ballots being sent back in weeks before election day.

Please wake up. Please. I don’t know about you, but I don’t appreciate being played a fool.

Anyway. The fat lady hasn’t sung yet. Be patient. Let’s see how this LEGALLY plays out.

ADDED: By the way, I would highly recommend that you start downloading some of these opposing view, or “evidence” videos. YouTube is deleting this stuff left and right. I would also recommend you screen capture Tweets as well because Twitter is also “censoring” this stuff. I’m starting a folder because I can’t trust the media anymore. I want PROOF when shit hits the fan.

I downloaded the 4K downloader to download YouTube Videos. So far, it’s been working pretty well. I ran it through Malware to make sure it didn’t have a hidden virus before installing it on my computer. Anyway. It’s time to compile “evidence.” Just sayin’.

Politics

Massive Voter Fraud Setting the Precedent for Future Elections?

November 7, 2020 Karen

I don’t even know what to say right now.

The voting fiasco is taking up too much of my brain space leaving very little room for my characters.

I feel I must talk about this – I need to purge my thoughts and hopefully clean house so that I can focus on writing more fiction – however that looks for me right now. (I’ve come to terms with the fact that I can’t simply stick to my story – I have to go where my creativity leads me – she’s a fickle bitch).

Can you even believe we are where we are right now? Regardless of what party you support, this is a mess. The fact that we still don’t know the outcome, nearly a week later, is mind boggling. I know we had a similar situation with the Bush/Gore race but that was one state, we have SEVERAL states that have not submitted final totals and “mysteriously” keep finding more ballots to add to the count.

Something is definitely going on. And regardless of whether you want Biden to win or not, this nightmare goes way beyond this race. This is potentially setting a precedence for EVERY election and if we allow cheaters, whether it’s on the Republican or Democrat side, voters as individuals will become obsolete. Because if either side can cheat their way to a win, why do they need us? Just fabricate votes and put who you want in the White House or Congress.

And don’t you find it strange that ALL of the votes that have “mysteriously” appeared are for Biden? And why haven’t those same ballots affected the outcome of Congress? You mean to tell me, that the ballots they are finding ONLY marked Biden and NO ONE else?? How strange is that? THOUSANDS of ballots were discovered with only one mark? Hmmm … and if they DIDN’T arrive with only one mark, then wouldn’t those “mysteriously” found ballots affect the outcome of the Congressmen/women and Senate races? How can we definitely call those winners BEFORE these “mysteriously” found ballots have been called? Wouldn’t these “mysteriously” found ballots affect those races too?

And the “news” outlets – we should call them something else because they are no longer “news” organizations – they are propaganda machines, are touting that President Trump has NO evidence to back up his voter fraud claims.

He may not have evidence at this time, but there are enough shenanigans happening that it warrants enough for him and his team to legally investigate. Hell, it’s enough for the American people to demand an answer because again, what good are we if the left and the propaganda machines pick whomever they want in the end anyway? We HAVE to investigate what is going on if not for this election but for elections to come! And you can bet your BOTTOM dollar, if the shoe was on the other foot, Democrats would be going BERSERK trying to get to the bottom of these suspicious activities. Don’t deny it.

Again, it goes beyond this race. I know Trump can be off putting, he gets on my nerves as well, and I don’t necessarily like his presentation but the man gets shit done. He doesn’t simply speak, he DOES. And we need that type of leadership. We don’t need fancy words, flowery phrases and pacification, or someone who flip-flops on issues DAILY depending on the audience he/she is speaking to. We need someone in the White House who will put the people before politics. That’s why we need someone like Trump. Biden is a puppet. And puppets can be manipulated and made to perform for whatever audience will pay the most.

Biden will destroy this country. Or at least, he will try. Thank God Republicans kept the Senate and we gained some seats in the House – if nothing else, he will propose crap and it will filibuster. But again, NOTHING will get done – we’ll continue to kick the can down the road and the next Trump-like person, if anyone is brave enough to endure the shit storm from the propaganda machines, to deal with.

I don’t know, I want it to be over, as well. But I want a fair election ALL elections moving forward, too. If we don’t put a foot on the neck of this deceit now, it will only get worse in the years ahead.

Here’s why it’s acceptable to be concerned about this election:

This race is extremely close. In some states, it comes down to 1% and that alone justifies counting the votes again.
Record number of mail-in ballots – there’s never been anything like it. We should ONLY allow voting ON election day – you vote when polls open, you stop voting when polls close – PERIOD. (Except for active military who are not even on American soil and for those with a REALLY good excuse to not be able to make it to their polling site on the day of election. And I mean really good reason. You know when an election is for YEARS, if you can’t plan to be available on voting day then too bad so sad. Plan ahead). And conspiracy theory or not, it’s suspicious that Democrats fought hard to promote mail-in ballots all in the name of “safety” before the election. They were gearing this up to use in case the election didn’t go their way and VOILA! Here we are. How convenient for them.
States keep “finding” ballots. Windows are papered over not allowing court-appointed ballot watchers to monitor the count. If there is nothing to hide, then why hide?? There are documented software glitches in Michigan, more than 40 counties used this software – pretty sure that justifies recounting the votes. My sister-in-law sent Kevin a link to a video showing this on YouTube – guess what, that video is no longer available. Hell yes this is suspicious. (And that’s ANOTHER alarming trend – censorship!)
North Carolina won’t update total vote count until next week. What is going on? Are they taking a Sabbatical to contemplate life?? Why?
Pennsylvania – allowing ballots to arrive three days AFTER the election – even if they’re not clearly marked before the deadline. These officials are openly rooting for Biden, they’re not even trying to hide it – think they are fair and unbiased? I would wager not. It looks like they’re determined to make Biden win no matter what. Is that not a reason to at least suspect something is not right? Of course there is.

Count very vote and make sure it’s legal. Throw illegally obtained votes out. Period.

Here are some more things that make you go Hmmmmmmmm…

Rush Limbaugh: How could country vote for GOP but against Trump?

Corrupted software used in 30 states including ALL swing states

Michigan USPS Whistleblower Details Superior’s Directive to Back-Date Mail-In Ballots For Acceptance

Democrat Poll Watcher Alleges Corruption At Philadelphia Polling Place: ‘This Is A Coup’

These things, if nothing else, call for recounts. And again, if the rolls were reversed, Democrats would be RIOTING for a recount. Don’t deny it. And honestly, if the rolls were reversed and there was this much suspicion, I would also think it’s fair to recount. I want a president who won fair and square, regardless of the outcome. If Biden wins, he will win because he cheated. What a legacy!

It’s no secret I’m NO Biden fan. And the thought of him being the president (notice I didn’t say MY president), worries me. I’m trying not to freak out and don’t worry, I won’t be one of these emotionally-stunted crazy people who falls to my knees and screams to the sky if Biden is confirmed, but his agendas worry me. I don’t want to rely on another country for oil. I don’t want socialism. I don’t want to give over half my paycheck to government programs that exist solely to make people dependent on the government. And I want a president who will be strong, not one who will kowtow to dictators and lick their boots all in the name of “please don’t hurt us, Mr. Bad guy!” However, if that is what happens, then that is what happens. I am encouraged by the fact that we have the Senate and enough House members to (hopefully) keep the crazy in check. And it’s only for four years, I hope. And I hope whoever our Republican candidate is in 2024 is strong and determined to uphold the constitution.

I also have my faith. And I trust God and take great comfort in knowing that He’s there.

I don’t mean to offend anyone reading this and I’m not referring to “normal” Democrats because I feel like the Democrat party today doesn’t even really represent “true” Democrat ideals nowadays, but I feel like the Democrat party has become a cult. Group think. And any time they are provided with an opposing viewpoint it’s like they short circuit and lose their minds because how dare you not agree with me?!

We have reached a very scary place in our history, folks. And according to the Bible, this is just the beginning. I shudder to think what our country will look like when our grandkids are in their 50’s. If we have grandkids, but you know what I mean. Our society is slowly circling the drain and before long the sink will be empty and we will cease to exist – at least, as we know now.

Wow. What a dark way to end this. lol But honestly. We live in dark times and there is a section of our population that are determined to keep it dark and hopeless. It doesn’t have to be that way. But we have to be strong and have the bravado to stand up for what is right, no matter the screaming, the accusations and the manipulation.

Whatever happens, this is a set back, no matter who wins. Keep your eyes on the prize (which for me is peace) and ignore the chaos that surrounds you. It’s all we can do right now.

NaNoWriMo2020

Interview with Dree

November 6, 2020November 5, 2020 Karen

Hello Blogfam and welcome.

I’d like to introduce Dree Sanders. Dree is a supporting character in this story. She has graciously allowed me to pick her brain and to share her with you all. Welcome Dree.

Dree: Thanks.

Me: You look mad.

Dree: I’m not mad. But I don’t think I appreciate the supporting character part of your introduction.

Me: But you are a supporting character. You’re not the main character so …

Dree: Whatever.

Me: Okay. *swallows nervously* So tell us about your relationship with Maya.

Dree: I don’t have a relationship with Maya.

Me: *nervous laugh* Wow. This interview is going great. Are you saying you’re an enemy of Maya’s?

Dree: I wouldn’t say enemy, per se …

Me: *waits*

Dree: *sigh* I guess we’re more like frenemies …

Me: Why is that? What happens?

Dree: *gives her a condescending look* Pretty sure I can not contractually answer that question.

Me: *shrugs* Maybe not. Okay, do you hate Maya?

Dree: I don’t feel anything for Maya. She’s my competitor. But … *big sigh* I guess I admire her, too. If you tell her I said that, I will stab you.

Me: She’s kidding Blogfam … she wouldn’t really stab me. *tilts head* Would you?

Dree: *shrugs*

Me: How did you and Maya meet?

Dree: I actually kicked her ass.

Me: *blinks* You … that’s how you met??

Dree: Yep.

Me: Like, *nervous laugh* did you jump her in an alley? I don’t understand.

Dree: No. God, *rolls eyes* In kick boxing.

Me: Oh, of course. So that’s how you two met?

Dree: Pretty sure I just said that.

Me: Geez Dree, no reason to be a bi … difficult.

Dree: *smirks* It was easy to kick her ass. She’s not very good at kickboxing.

Me: I see. Let’s switch it up. Do you have a boyfriend?

Dree: That’s personal.

Me: *waits for an answer*

Dree: *sighs* Fine. Yes .. and no.

Me: Oh my God, Dree! It’s like pulling teeth to talk to you! You’re the who agreed to this interview.

Dree: Actually, no I didn’t. You forced me to ..

Me: *holds up a hand* Stop. Just stop. The purpose of this interview is to introduce you to the Blogfam as well as give me an idea of who and what you are. I have to say, I’m not exactly a fan of you right now.

Dree: Ditto.

Me: *takes a calming breath* Look. Just tell us your role in this story.

Dree: I keep everyone from killing each other.

Me: Do people turn on each other?? I don’t remember that being part of the plan!

Dree: What do you mean part of the plan? You don’t even know what the plan is yet! You haven’t written the story yet.

Me: But the little I’ve planned out in my head does not say my characters kill each other.

Dree: You’re forgetting one little fact.

Me: What?

Dree: There is a whole lot about this story you don’t know yet. How do you know what happens in the middle? Answer, you don’t. What if I go on a killing spree?

Me: Then I guess I’ll have Maya take you out.

Dree: *snorts* That princess? I’d like to see you try!

Me: Are you threatening me, Dree?

Dree: You started it.

Me: *takes a calming breath* Okay … this is getting weird. Let’s move … wait, you never answered the question about having a boyfriend? *consults transcript* Wait. You answered it .. sort of.

Dree: *dramatic sigh* You’re annoying.

Me: Ditto.

Dree: *cracks a smile in spite of herself* Touché.

Me: ….

Dree: What makes you think I have a crush on a boy?

Me: *slow blink* You’re a lesbian?

Dree: Maybe.

Me: I mean … if that’s what you’re in to, I’m not judging. Not to mention, I really don’t care but …

Dree: *laughs* I’m not into girls … though there are a few characters in your story I would do if I swung that way.

Me: Gah. This conversation just gets more and more strange. *clears throat* What are some things you like to participate in?

Dree: S & M, kinky exhibitionist stuff.

Me: Dree!

Dree: *loud laugh*

Me: Will you please be serious. I’m trying to get to know you here and you’re doing your best to keep me at arm’s length.

Dree: I don’t get close to people.

Me: Oh, why is that?

Dree: *shrugs*

Me: No. You don’t get to not answer that. Spill the tea.

Dree: *gives it some thought* Because people suck.

Me: Meaning …?

Dree: People are constant disappointments. I can’t count on anyone, ever. I can only count on myself.

Me: Sounds like you’ve been let down in your life.

Dree: You could say that.

Me: Tell me about your home life?

Dree: What home life?

Me: What are your parents like?

Dree: I have no idea.

Me: You’re not close to your parents?

Dree: I don’t have parents.

Me: Dree, come on. Someone impregnated your mother so that you could be born. You didn’t just appear out of thin air.

Dree: Sometimes I wish I had.

Me: Bad people?

Dree: You could say that.

Me: Do you have any contact with them?

Dree: God no.

Me: When did you move out?

Dree: I didn’t. They kicked us out.

Me: Us?

Dree: *bites her lip* My little brother.

Me: *raises eyebrows* I didn’t know you had a brother.

Dree: I don’t.

Me: *exasperated chuckle* Dree! You just said …

Dree: We both came from foster care. We actually ended up in the same shitty household and we both picked up our shit and left when things got too intense. We’re not really family, but we’ve been through some stuff so … we’re close.

Me: Does he make an appearance in the story?

Dree: Maybe.

Me: Hmmm. So you’ve never felt like finding your true parents?

Continue reading “Interview with Dree” →

Podcast

Podcast: Is a COVID-19 Diagnosis a Death Sentence?

November 5, 2020November 5, 2020 Karen

Episode description:

I wonder when these so-called news media broadcast the daily COVID cases if people are not seeing those numbers as deaths, not cases? Is that why people are so freaked out by this virus? Because now that we know more about it and we have medications that have been proven effective in treating COVID, why the panic? You’re more likely to die from a meteor crashing to Earth than you are from dying from COVID – 99.9% recovery rate. Why does the media insist on keeping everyone fearful and in a state of panic? Listen for our thoughts on the latest madness ….

______________________________________

Take us on the go! You can hear our podcasts on the following platforms:

We upload a new podcast every Sunday. Thanks for listening!

Politics

We Are Not All the Same, We Should Not Strive to Be All the Same

November 4, 2020November 4, 2020 Karen

This is a really good break down of the Biden-Harris campaign ad about Equity vs Equality. On the surface, it sounds great, as most of Liberal philosophy initially sounds “Yeah! Equality for all!”, but as usual, when you scratch the surface and start asking questions, the meaning is in fact, not well intentioned, and in fact, sounds like a scary place to end up.

How was your election day? Did you vote? Did you have a hard time voting? I know when I was getting ready for work this morning I heard on the radio that there were traffic jams and lines not only out the door, but along the building and down the street. That was before work. I don’t know what it looked like after work.

I was actually able to vote at the hospital. That was nice. It was nice not to have to leave campus and stand in line for an hour. But I was surprised at how long the lines were that I stood in. It was encouraging to see so many people take time out of their days to vote.

I was proud to hear our oldest son Blake voted. I don’t know if our youngest voted or not, I haven’t heard from him.

I tell you though, I’m SO ready for this election to be over. I know you probably feel the same. It’s been a brutal year with COVID and the riots but the crazy that came with the election drama was nearly too much.

Oh 2020, when will you be over??

By the way, did you guys know that a meteor came close to Earth on 11-2-20? I mean … why not!? I’m sure we’ll be visited by the zombie apocalypse will be next. In fact, Kevin, who is a numbers guy, text me: “Hi. The meteorite didn’t hit today at 8;33 AM so I guess we are going to have to vote after all. It was a .41% chance of it hitting the Earth. So, in other words, you are about seven times more likely to die of getting hit by a meteorite than by dying from the virus.”

Ha! Nothing like math to bring things into perspective!

Anyway. I’m sitting here now, too scared to watch any of the election coverage. It just stresses me out. I know life will continue as normal no matter who wins but I can’t help thinking how it will change, again, depending on who wins. Will we be better off? Or will we have to fight tooth and nail for every right we still retain? Will people even WANT to fight to retain our rights? I feel like people are giving up. I know we were a punching bag to a big, bad 2020 bitch, but we can’t give up! We have to keep fighting the good fight.

Or the bad fight, again, depending on who wins.

Let’s change the subject – I can’t think about the election anymore tonight. All I can do is pray that we keep Trump in the office four more years.

I’m tired. Like bone tired. It’s because I’m so focused on writing and increasing my word count I’ve been staying up too late. And I really need to get to bed early tonight because I’m in clinic with my doctor tomorrow and I’m in clinic with another doctor on Thursday and when I’m in clinic, I feel like I need all of my mental capacities.

We’re still doing Telemedicine, by the way. We haven’t stopped doing Telemedicine. I don’t think Telemedicine is going away any time soon, to be honest. My doctor LOVES it and to be fair, I think a lot of patients are digging it. It took a little getting used to at first, and I still run into people who are flat out against Telemedicine or who can’t participate for whatever reason but I think people are starting to get used to the new normal.

And that’s really the theme of 2020, don’t you think: Finding our new normal. I hate that phrase though. I feel like finding our new normal is not usually a positive thing and God knows, I don’t want to make wearing masks our new normal, but I’m afraid that’s where we’re heading. I can’t tell you the number of times I forget my mask at work and when I realize my face is naked, I feel embarrassed and exposed. I get a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach when I forget to wear my mask. It’s so commonplace now I’ve forgotten what some of my coworkers look like without a mask! How sad is that??

But life is starting to settle down at work. We have indeed found our new normal and we’re pretty much back up to full capacity as far as seeing patients and doing surgeries. Our volume is still not all the way back though. Usually, by this time of the year, by the end of the year, we are scrambling to find places for people on our schedules because people want to get in before the end of the year in order to meet their deductible. But not this year. Our schedules are spotty at best.

Speaking of meeting deductibles: Kevin was looking over my work benefits and it looks like our insurance is going to change the date on our yearly cycle. For example, our deductible won’t start over at the first of the year, but in fact, in April. I think this is a great idea because if we stagger everyone’s “end-of-year” deductible resets that will prevent bottle necks of people wanting to do whatever before their insurance resets.

Oh, and speaking of deductibles, our premiums are going up, again. You would think I would have great benefits working at a hospital but that’s not really true. I mean, it’s not terrible but it’s not as great as you would think. I guess I should just be thankful that we have insurance. Hell, I’m grateful I still have a job, considering the environment we live in now.

My team is throwing a luncheon to celebrate PA week, MA week and my birthday. It was a weird time for all of us and now that the dust is settling, we are playing catch up. I spent a considerable amount of time on the doctor’s schedule, re-arranging people so we could carve out an hour so we could all eat together. It’s a lot of work, but we really enjoy being able to stop, break bread together, and have some laughs. I brings us closer together as a team and recharges us a bit.

Sorry, I realize I’m rambling. I’m seriously half brain dead right now and I can feel my eyes at half mast. I really need to go to bed early tonight but I’m about 500 words shy of making my goal for today so I’ll trudge onward.

What else can I talk about? What else is going on in the world right now besides the obvious?

Oh. Just read that Trump won the state of Florida and 29 electoral votes. I really hope he wins Wisconsin and California. Those are traditionally Blue states and it would be very satisfying, especially with California, if he won those states.

What the actual hell …

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) released new guidance over the weekend explaining that voters who have tested positive for COVID-19 can still exercise their right to vote, even if they are currently sick or are undergoing quarantine.

“CDC’s recommendations for isolating someone who has Covid-19 or quarantining someone who was in close contact with a person with Covid-19 would not preclude them from exercising their right to vote,” a CDC spokesperson told CNN in an email Monday. Source

We live in madness, folks. Complete madness. I guess COVID is taking a break so people can get out and vote but as soon as this is over, GO BACK INTO HIDING BECAUSE COVID WILL GET YOU.

Gads. I can even roll my eyes hard enough at the sheer stupidity.

Okay, uncle, I need to get some sleep.

__________________________________________

(The next morning)

Well. I’m at a loss for words. As of this writing, Biden has more electoral votes than Trump. There are still some states that haven’t finished counting votes, so there’s still hope as it’s a very close race but I can’t help but be discouraged. I will not, however, turn into one of these lunatic people you see recording themselves having a screaming fit because they didn’t get their way, but I’m not going to lie, I’m disappointed and worried. I honestly thought, in my heart of heart, that Trump would win by a landslide. And if you look at the breakdown of states Trump won the midwest and Biden won the coastal states. That’s not surprising.

I’m going to go to work now and distract myself with that and … well, I guess life goes on, right?

Have a lovely day, Blogfam.

NaNoWriMo2020

Maya’s Pre-Story

November 3, 2020November 2, 2020 Karen

“You want me to do what?” Maya pulled an earbud from her ear to blink at her father.

Thomas Cooper peeked over his reading glasses at Maya. “You heard me.”

“But dad,” she whined. “I’m meeting my friends! I can’t have Bryan tag along, I would die!”

“First of all, you won’t die,” he grinned. “Secondly, your mother has to go to this meeting and Carla has the afternoon off. You’re our only choice.” He paused. “You’re the best choice, obviously. Bryan loves hanging out with you.”

“And I love hanging out with him, but not in front of my friends. It’s not cool, dad.”

Thomas dropped his phone into his suit jacket and gave his daughter his full attention. “Look Gracie,” he stepped forward and gathered her into his arms, placing a kiss on her head. “I remember being fourteen. I know exactly what you’re feeling right now. Remember how I had to stay home with your aunt and uncle so grandma could go to work?”

“Yeah. But you didn’t have a choice. Grandpa had died.”

“True. But you don’t have a choice either. Someone has to watch Bryan, he’s too young to stay home by himself. You don’t want anything to happen to him, do you?”

Maya wrapped her arms around her father’s waist and gave him a loving squeeze. “No.”

“Just act like the cool sister. Show your friends how responsible you are. They’ll be impressed.”

“But he’s so annoying,” she murmured into his suit jacket.

He chuckled. ‘He’s also your little brother. Flesh and blood. We do whatever it takes for flesh and blood, right?”

She sighed and nodded against his chest. She loved the smell of her father. He smelled like sandalwood and gun powder. She lowered her hand and ran her palm over the butt of the revolver in his belt. It brought her a strange sense of comfort knowing her father carried a gun.

“Where’s mom?” Bryan entered the room.

“She at her meeting, bud.” Thomas slipped out of Maya’s embrace and ruffled his son’s hair.

“But … ” he looked from his father to his sister and then back. “Carla is out. Am I going to work with you dad?” He bounced on the ball of his feet, excitement shining in his green eyes.

“Sorry, no. You’re hanging out with Maya,” he said.

“But she’s a girl!” he whined, looking horrified.

“See!” Maya said. “He doesn’t want to hang out with me and my friends either!”

“Look you two,” said Thomas. “We don’t have a choice. Mom is out, Carla is out. There is no one else available. If it’s going to bother you so much, Maya, then stay home. You don’t have to hang out with your friends. Or better yet, invite them here.”

“No. We made plans for the park. We have to go to the park!”

“Oooh, is Damon going to be there?” Bryan sing-songed.

“Who’s Damon?” said Thomas.

“No one!” Maya yelled, reaching out to swat at Bryan but he was too quick for her and dodged her hand.

“Maya, you’re not meeting a boy, are you?”

“No dad. It’s just me and the girls. We need some fresh air. End of discussion.”

Thomas arched a warning brow at her.

Maya crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. “Fine. He can come.”

“But I don’t want to hang out with her! Girls are gross!” Bryan whined.

“Enough!” Thomas yelled. Both the kids jumped at his sharp tone. “I need to go. Leave, stay, I don’t care, but you are not to leave Bryan alone, do you hear me, Maya? If I find out you did, you will be grounded.”

She sighed and nodded. “Okay.”

“Okay,” Thomas softened his tone and took a calming breath. “I’ll make a reservation at our favorite Italian restaurant tonight and then we’ll go out for ice cream later, deal?”

Both kids nodded and he smiled. He bent down, pointed to his cheek and smiled when Maya gave him a quick peck. Bryan hugged him tightly around the waist and hung on as Thomas started to walk away. He laughed. “Get off me, you monkey.”

Bryan laughed and let go, stumbling backward.

Maya rolled her eyes.

“See you later, kiddos.”

“Bye dad,” they both chorused.

Maya waited for him to leave then turned to Bryan. “You better not embarrass me.”

“You better not embarrass me! I know you’re going to the park to watch Damon’s soccer team practice. I’m not stupid.”

“Whatever brat. Go grab your jacket.”

“I don’t need a jacket.”

“It’s 50 degrees, Bryan. I don’t want to go to the park and then you start complaining about being cold. In fact, I want you to be invisible. Got it?”

“Fine. I’ll bring my invisible cloak then.”

Maya growled. “Get your jacket!” She lunged for him and he dodged her once again.

“Haha! You’ll never catch me, Maya. I’m much faster than you!”

She made to grab at him again but he once again ducked under her arm and raced toward his room.

Maya scowled after him and sent Ava a text. Dad is making me bring Bryan. She walked over to the mudroom and grabbed her green pea coat from the hook. Her phone dinged as she slipped it on.

No worries. I think your little brother is funny.

You wouldn’t think that if you had to live with him.

“Come on slow poke!” Bryan bumped into her as he rushed past.

“Oh my God! You are so annoying!” She yelled after him. She grabbed her cross over bag, made sure she had the door key, her lip gloss and some cinnamon gum before following her little brother out the door.

“Bryan, wait up!” Maya yelled while skipping down the stairs. He was already half a block ahead of her. She reached in her bag and retrieved her lip gloss. She tried to apply it while speed walking after Bryan. She felt nervous. Even though she told her father she was going to the park to hang out with her girlfriends, which was technically correct, she was largely going because Damon was going to be practicing with his soccer team. She had had a crush on Damon for nearly two years and this was the first year he finally noticed her. It was also the year she developed boobs and bought her first bra so maybe he had finally noticed she was becoming a woman.

She pressed her lips together and looked both ways while crossing the street. One block to the park. She could just make Bryan out in front of her. “Bryan!” She yelled.

He spun around and began to run backward while waving at her.

“Slow down!” She could have run after him, but she didn’t want to arrive at the park all hot and sweaty. Though maybe a little sweat would make her t-shirt cling to her newly developed breasts and that would prompt Damon to finally talk to her.

She thought back to the first time she had seen Damon. They had fifth grade class together. He sat to her right, catty-corner from her desk. She had the perfect spot to watch him without him noticing her stare. He was gorgeous. He had hair the color of swirling milk chocolate and light hazel eyes. He had a dimple in his left cheek whenever he smiled. He didn’t smile a lot, but when he did, it took her breath away. He was very quiet that year and stayed mostly to himself. She thought he was mysterious and broody. He never once looked back at her and he never seemed to sense she was drooling over him every day. The only time he actually looked directly at her was when Mr. Shaw asked her a question and she didn’t know the answer. The other kids snickered and whispered but he simply turned around, grinned and said, “don’t sweat it. We can’t always know the answer.” She had been lost from that point forward.

She always made a point of knowing where he was at all times that year. Then in six grade, she had casually asked her friends to find out from his friends what classes he was taking so she could try and get into the same class. She was never able to take a class at the same time as him but she had English right after he did so they nearly always passed each other in the hall that year. He never said a word to her but she always made a point of walking past him every day.

This year, she had been lucky and had Social Studies with him. She sat directly behind him so she could gaze lovingly at his thick, wavy hair. He seemed to be interested in Social Studies and knew a lot of the answers. Because she didn’t want to appear stupid in front of him, she studied extra hard and often competed with him to answer the teacher’s questions. One time, she was asked a tricky question about September 11th, 2001, and when the teacher told her she had the right answer, he turned around, grinned and said, “nice.” She thought she would melt into a puddle on the spot. She carried that memory with her for weeks.

Then, last week, she heard he had tried out and made the soccer team. She immediately signed up to be part of the pep club so she would have an excuse to attend all of his games and cheer him on. She talked her best friend Ava into joining her. Her phone buzzed in her purse. She reached in to read the text: Where are you? Practice is starting and we saved you a seat.

Nearly there, she typed back.

She put her phone back and gave her full attention to the path before her.

Bryan was no where to be seen.

Maya’s heart quivered. “Bryan!” she yelled. “Bryan!” she yelled louder. She broke into a jog straining her eyes in search of her little brother. “If you get lost, mom and dad will never forgive me,” she muttered under her breath.

Continue reading “Maya’s Pre-Story” →