Today was Deb's infusion day, on the opposite side of the county. Traffic was much lighter than normal, though at times it did appear normal. The plan was for her to go the clinic, get her infusion, see her doctor, and I would head out to a local supermarket. We left home armed with home made masks, so what could ever happen to us that is bad? The store is billed as a "superstore," meaning that is has everything. Normally it does, but not today. About 50-60% of the shelves and freezers were empty. I still managed a fairly good haul, as most fresh fruit and veggies were available (there is a terrible run on potatoes, though). So we should be good for a week at least, again. My next outing is set for Thursday (very unfortunately), as I need to refill two prescriptions, and pick up cat food and a cat prescription at the vet. So out twice in a week.
We are actually happily adjusting to being grounded, so to speak. Life has been even better here lately, with more creative time being allowed since we are not out as much. The bank account is gaining a slight bulge, too. However, I still pine for visits to Detroit, to London, and especially to Vienna, which might be at the top of our list once things return to a new normal. We now know how to screw oil companies--drive a lot less. We now know how to have cleaner air--drive less and fly less. We know how to stay healthier--maintain a degree of social distancing after this is over. Will we do it? We as in Deb and I will certainly give it a go. But I really doubt it will catch on with the public.
We've been watching Season 5 of Elementary a lot lately, as well as finishing up Season 1 of Bosch. Then there is the Dr. Who classic episodes that we are screening, and Upstart Crow and Blandings. A new Criterion movie is coming up soon (Paris, Texas). In the meantime, let us go back to the first group of artists known to paint outdoors. I fell in love with Barbizon art many years ago, after encountering works of Theodore Rousseau. I went on to learn about many other artists in this group, each of them worth exploring on their own. Here is one of the most calming paintings I have ever seen, one of two in Detroit by the artist. Listen to some environmental music by Brian Eno and stare at this painting (try "Music For Airports").
The Forest of Fountainbleu, ca 1840. Theodore Rousseau (French, 1812-67).
Oil on panel, 16" x 25". Detroit Institute of Arts.
Detail of central area, above.
As I write this, severe storms are arriving in our area this evening. We are home celebrating the April Full Moon (a super moon). Detroit currently has more corona virus cases per capita than NYC. Our own county is the highest in southern Ontario outside of Toronto. You can thank our proximity to Detroit for that one. When will it end? Not soon enough.
Mapman Mike
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