Oh, the choices, the choices.
As I write this, plans are all set re-open Disney World this weekend. This is happening as Florida is suffering from an increase in COVID-19 infections. As you might recall, our state was one of the early pioneers to re-open its economy back in late April. While those namby-pambys up in New England wasted valuable time — sans haircuts, manicures, and pedicures — we here in the Sunshine State all cleaned up early and looked absolutely fabulous in time for our re-opening. If there’s a price to pay in the pursuit of happiness, you’ll definitely find it here in the south at the moment.
By now we’ve all seen quite enough of the video antics of those weirdly-monikered Karens and Kens, who openly mock and flaunt the advisories of public health officials. But what does it mean when your own governor basically chooses to join that chorus too, albeit in a more restrained way? Florida governor Ron DeSantis has a different approach to “We are all in this together.”
Instead of cautioning state residents, DeSantis is one of Disney’s biggest cheerleaders for their re-opening. He believes that by opening safely — yes, yes, wear a mask and distance if you wish — the state’s economy can continue to rebound, and Florida can show the nation just what a hearty and savvy bunch we are. Or he is. Or we are. Well, you get the point.
And speaking of savvy, you’ve really got to hand it to the governor for keeping the actual statistics of COVID-related hospitalizations completely under wraps. Unlike other states, Florida is not reporting the number of people currently being treated in its hospitals. Just as the President would rather we not see his tax returns, Governor DeSantis wants to keep secret the number of people being treated in hospitals. Transparency is cumbersome.
Needless to say, I have no plans to visit Disney World anytime soon. In fact, neither will a fair number of people who actually have jobs there. The Actors’ Equity union, which represents over 750 performers, reports that Disney rescinded recall notices after failing to come to agreement with union negotiators on a request for COVID-19 tests for all performers.
Oh, Mickey. Say it ain’t so.
Before I completely leave the subject of Mr. DeSantis, I would be remiss if I didn’t share this one last anecdote: As the topic of school openings in the U.S. dominates the news lately, the good Florida governor has let it be known that he stands firmly on the side of opening up the schools this fall. Last week he said, “If Walmart and Home Depot are open, schools should be, too.” He’s right, of course. Kids in Florida will soon be able to understand just how thin that line is between learnin’ and spendin’.
So how does this all affect your humble blogger? It doesn’t, other than the fact that I live here and am no doubt walking past people in grocery aisles who will soon travel to Orlando, or will have kids starting school in about four weeks.
We’re all in this together, indeed. I do hope someone buys me a t-shirt.
New Yorkers, by the way, are doing comparatively well. Remember when states were being asked to send ventilators to them back in April? Well, the tide has sure changed. Just this week Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that he is directing his state health officials to send the drug Remdesivir to medical authorities in Florida as a help with our surge in cases. Thank you, New York.
By about this time, I think most of us had hoped that things might be better than they are presently. The stay-at-home orders of March and April were done so that by perhaps mid-to-late summer we might all be able to enjoy picnics with friends, meals at restaurants, and maybe even a road trip to see family. Heck, I even had a challenge from Judy at New England Garden and Thread on which of us would be the first to go out for a haircut (she won; I’ve not gone near a barbershop). Of course, one can do all of those things right now if he/she wants. But I’m just not comfortable in doing so.
Thankfully, though, it’s not all doom and gloom at the moment…
I’ve been able continue with my part-time job once a week because up to 90% or more of the employees at those firms remain working from home. This allows me to work alone and really not be in proximity to anyone else…
Out of the blue, my nephews decided that they wanted to do a bit of genealogical sleuthing about their grandparents. So I’ve been scanning documents such as birth certificates and army discharge papers for their assistance. One of them follows up with occasional questions, and this too has been a pleasant surprise…
Also, the local fish market here opened up! They’ve instituted some safe practices, including taking orders from those queuing outside, plus a rule of no more than three customers inside the store at any one time. It is wonderful to have tasty, fresh fish and seafood again…
Finally, while I’m still not at all interested in venturing into a barbershop, my lovely bride has been more than happy to wield the clippers and offer me a shearing. I’m pretty sure that this is the first time I’ve ever felt up a barber.
I probably should do better with the tip.
So folks, I know many in my state would probably disagree with me on this point, and that surely would include Mr. DeSantis too. But I am requesting of you the following: Stay the hell away! You really don’t want to experience the Magic Kingdom right now. Just stay home. Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and even Goofy, G-d willing, will all be here next year. Come then, hopefully after a vaccine is available.
In the meantime, make the right choices, and remember to follow my adopted Irish Granny’s admonition about following the rules.
Until next time…
Snakes in the Grass 
You crack me up! I gave my husband a trim and I didn’t get a tip… don’t remember getting felt up either. We have been getting some marvelous – and reasonably priced – fresh fish. The boats are coming in with fish that would normally be sold to restaurants. Opah, albacore and ahi for $5 – $10 a pound. The only bummer is that we don’t have a larger freezer.
No worries about me coming to Florida… you guys are nuts.
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Nuts and then some, Janis! You know, I think you’re onto something about the fish prices. This is the third time in a row I’ve gone where they’ve weighed the piece, and then charged me less. And all this time I thought it was my handsome, masked face. 🤨
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Nice look, Marty! Keep staying safe.
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Thanks, Jane. 😎
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Hi, Marty – You don’t have to worry about me either. As much as I adore you and Mickey, I’ll be happily staying at home. Thanks for the evening chuckle…and for sharing your Irish Granny with us!
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And going on those hikes, Donna. I’ve enjoyed experiencing them through your words and pictures.
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Yeah, thanks Ron for screwing the trip to Ft. Lauderdale I was hopeful to be able to take to visit my sister this September. And special thanks to beach and bar partiers everywhere. Back to square one. I have to admit, I’m addicted to the videos of Karen’s and Kens having meltdowns. I just can’t look away. I wish someone would do a compilation of them. I’ve never seen so many people lose their s**t over something so minor.
Btw, Gorgeous did a magnificent job on your hair! Is there nothing that woman can’t do (besides not being able to stop buying stuff online)?
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She’s a keeper, Sue! And putting up with my harassment to boot.
So sorry to hear about your scuttled plans. I guess we have to go back to WWII society to see a country pull together. I’ll make a point to read Tom Brokaw’s book someday. In the meantime, I’ve had enough of those Karen’s. You watch for me. 😁
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Gorgeous is a lady of many talents it seems, great job. I think your barber is in trouble. While we are travelling Western Australia you’re safe from a visit from us. Go well. Linda
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Thanks, Linda! Travel safe.
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Greetings from New England and all of us namby-pambys. 🙂 An interesting side effect of the stat increases in your state and others is that more people here are wearing face coverings. Of course, we have our Karens and Kens, but in general when I go to the store most have face coverings. I actually got my second hair cut this week with the same massive cleaning process going on there and an involved appointment process. I didn’t touch the stylist, but I did leave her a big fat tip. 🙂 I wouldn’t go to a place like Disney World if they paid me. Remember when this started and we were all concerned about a surge in the fall? We sure didn’t have to wait that long did we. Stay well and thank your nephews for the opportunity to tip toe through good family memories.
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Indeed, Judy. My “hopes” of summer picnics, etc. were hyperbole only. You are correct that a fall resurgence (I guess the so-called second wave) was always in the cards. Whenever I drive by my haircut joint, there is a sign on the door warning about wearing a mask. For Florida, that’s progress. 🙂
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Out of the mouths of (old) babes! Thanks for sharing the video, Marty. Great haircut, btw!
Deb
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Isn’t she wonderful? Thanks, Deb!
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Another great blog! I’ve been cutting my husband’s hair every four weeks since this started. We may have gotten the last set up clippers here. “Keep up the good work” to Gorgeous, at least she got $5. I’ll suggest this to mine!
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Thanks, Tracey! I mentioned afterwards that I like how she does it so much that perhaps after the pandemic, she could just keep doing it. There was a strange silence in the room after that for some reason. 😉
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Disney…seriously? I lived in Mouseville for 18 years and never went to that overpriced, overcrowded, soul sucking place!
And I’ve listened to that fart-blossom governor…thinking…”what the hell is wrong with you?” Reminds me of that Texas governor who said there were worse things than dying. (Just kill me now.) 🥴
I have three daughters who live in Mickey-town. Two of them are front-line workers. I haven’t heard from them in a few years, but I hope they’re keeping their wits about them.
I’m fine staying in…and the few times it’s necessary to venture out…I’ve got my evil eyeball ready! 👁
🤗
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I kid you not, Laurel. Can you believe it? Florida now has over a daily infection rate higher than what was happening in New York back in April, and they’re re-opening Disney. Unbelievable!
In fairness, I believe that was the lieutenant governor of Texas who made that brainy remark. But honestly, they voted him in, so that’s scary enough!
Keep that evil eyeball on the watch! 🙂
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I know. I’ve also heard that Florida refuses to release the number of infections and hospitalizations.
Oh, and the governor…or the lieutenant governor…birds of a feather.
They interviewed someone on the news the other day…someone who refused to wear a mask. Her take was, “we’re all going to get it, so why be uncomfortable while we’re waiting?”
FOOLS AND IDIOTS. FOOLS AND IDIOTS. Sigh.
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South Carolina is your silent cousin…same mentality, just not in-your-face defiant about it all – from the very beginning with the governor’s “If you’re home, stay home. If you’re at work stay at work.” valiant declaration as proof of his COVID ‘action’. Much of this second wave (it never receeded IMHO) can be traced to all things Myrtle Beach…hmmm even to places as far away from here as Maine and Michigan. In reality, Florida’s taking the rap for all of the silent South…I wish they’d all just ‘man-up’.
Anyway as for Mickey, he should be ashamed, that’s all I’ll say on that.
Thanks for a safe place to speak my piece, Marty, I knew you’d understand.
Thanks for the laughs Lord Knows We all need a laugh or two to see us through! And the hugs through your Irish Granny…I’d almost forgotten about her.
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The “silent South” indeed, Laura. As usual, your observations are spot-on here. The only difference between DeSantis and the other governors is that he’s merely more outspoken. Otherwise, it’s basically more of the same outlooks and policies (i.e., “it’s all because of more testing!“).
Oh, that granny. She’s a gem, isn’t she?
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Hehehe Marty! You need to tip her more so she’ll cut your hair topless next time. That’s how I used to cut my ex’s hair.
It’s funny because we hear all about your numbers in our news over here. I did a rough calculation the other day and our numbers were only 0.12% of your numbers in the US. Yet we are in lock down..stay at home order.
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Based on all the ignorance by some people here, Vy, I’m starting to think the more conservative governments can be about this the better. I’m not sure your topless suggestion will fly, but I’ll duly send it up the chain of command all the same. 😄
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😂😂😂😂😂 I know it’s the right thing to do but it’s hard not being able to go out. To meet family, friends and socialise.
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I know people who are still vacationing in Florida. Crazy!! I don’t understand what they’re thinking. Our state has rising numbers and we’re making the blacklist for entering other states. I can’t believe a state can enforce a 14 day quarantine if I travel there!! It’s definitely becoming easier to just stay home.
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I’ve wondered about the enforcement too. With so many people they must have to keep track of, I do wonder if it’s still primarily a “scout’s honor” type of compliance. Nevertheless, your last thought is the best one: just stay home!
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Nope, not coming to Florida anytime soon! Our state, although numbers are slightly increasing is basically stable. My county has few new cases and fewer deaths. I’ll stay here for the duration. A good friend’s son lives in Florida and he came down with it. Was sick for 3 weeks but has recovered. He’s in his early 30’s. They are hoping there are no residual consequences. Oddly his wife who lives with him, did not come down with it.
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The northeast and mid-atlantic states are comparatively in much better shape. More enlightened leaderships obviously! How awful about your friend’s son. I do hope his wife manages to avoid getting it.
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So far she has. He’s out about 3 or 4 weeks now.
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Marty, I wish I could give you the Fairy Godmother’s wand so you could whack some sense into the powers that be.
We are huge lovers of seafood around here. I have been hearing about an excess of spot prawns and I will investigate tomorrow. Fresh halibut always a treat.
Gorgeous is doing a wonderful job as a barber. My husband won’t let me near him even though I have watched the You-tube videos. He used to get exceptionally short haircuts. My brother now calls him “the hippy.” Stay safe!
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Erica, when I retired I immediately went down to a brush cut. It felt so good not to think about grooming anymore! So Gorgeous bought a clipper, and I guess that was pretty easy since all of it came off. So she’s using those same clippers now, but it’s tricker because I don’t want the brush cut anymore. 🙂
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I’m late to the comments, but I like your haircut. It’s fetching, as they used to say. I think about all the people who I know in FL and I wonder how you keep your sanity with that governor of yours. Ours is a goof, but not quite as far off the deep end. Stay safe.
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Many thanks, Ally. Yeah, most days it involves lots of denial. But even that’s hard to muster during a pandemic.
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Nice blog
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Many thanks for reading.
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I just found your blog and love it. I have family in Florida and I live in NY and am a Kindergarten teacher – we have been told we will be going back this year too, right now but not sure for how long. I gave my husband a haircut too and all I got was critiqued. I’m asking for a tip!
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I hope they keep you home and do virtual learning for quite some time yet. Teachers need to be protected! Yes, husband’s should lighten up about such things– and certainly give more of a tip than what I gave. 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by and reading!
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I wouldn’t want to live in a state
Whose governor is Ron DeSantis
Unless he was cricket bait….
And I was a praying mantis.
P.S. When I clicked on the clip, I got VIDEO UNAVAILABLE. DeSantis strikes again! 😉
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Ah, yes, a trip down memory lane with this post. Anything written back in 2020 seems like something written in the stone age at this point. But, yes, I take your point: DeSantis does make living here challenging to say the least (i.e. the new voting requirements law).
Many thanks for letting me know that the video link no longer works. The one good thing about YouTube is that there always multiples of the same thing!
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