Kiwi Lockdown
Facing the pandemic in New Zealand16 total reviews
Comment from rosehill (Wendy)
I'd have given you a six, but you left SWMBO out of the photo. And don't tell me she was chasing the dog. I like your idea, so this is how I've been spending the last 34 days in lock down, without guests. I am in my 69th year, with bad lungs, so even if every reservation from March 1 until July 13th hadn't cancelled, I would probably have called them to cancel. I am a bit of a hermit at heart, so the solitude hasn't been a problem. Real world bills and money are and will continue to be. But even if I review every poem on the site, it won't help with that. I actually thought, at one point, how wonderful it was to have all the time in the world to write. But, in a circumstance similar to the poor bibliophile in the Twilight Zone who broke his glasses, my muse has decided to self-quarantine, locked the door, and only peeked out through the crack for a few minutes which allowed me to finish and post one poem. Yes, I do have time to read every poem on FanStory, but not the inclination to do so. I spend my time wandering from project to project in this 111-year-old house and starting a whole lot of somethings I can't seem to get up the oomph to finish because I can't afford the parts or paint, nor can I run out to pick up whatever doohickey is needed. "What a world, what a world." That said, I now hear from my kids and grand kids every day and all those West Coast folks I love so dearly are well and sitting tight. People seem to have remembered how to be kind and helpful and supportive and some of them are very funny. The silence has started the birds back to serenading and the wildlife has begun idly wandering through the park in front of my Inn. So, silver linings abound - if not rainbows. Stay well and safe Steve and Anne. - Wendy
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2020
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I'd have given you a six, but you left SWMBO out of the photo. And don't tell me she was chasing the dog. I like your idea, so this is how I've been spending the last 34 days in lock down, without guests. I am in my 69th year, with bad lungs, so even if every reservation from March 1 until July 13th hadn't cancelled, I would probably have called them to cancel. I am a bit of a hermit at heart, so the solitude hasn't been a problem. Real world bills and money are and will continue to be. But even if I review every poem on the site, it won't help with that. I actually thought, at one point, how wonderful it was to have all the time in the world to write. But, in a circumstance similar to the poor bibliophile in the Twilight Zone who broke his glasses, my muse has decided to self-quarantine, locked the door, and only peeked out through the crack for a few minutes which allowed me to finish and post one poem. Yes, I do have time to read every poem on FanStory, but not the inclination to do so. I spend my time wandering from project to project in this 111-year-old house and starting a whole lot of somethings I can't seem to get up the oomph to finish because I can't afford the parts or paint, nor can I run out to pick up whatever doohickey is needed. "What a world, what a world." That said, I now hear from my kids and grand kids every day and all those West Coast folks I love so dearly are well and sitting tight. People seem to have remembered how to be kind and helpful and supportive and some of them are very funny. The silence has started the birds back to serenading and the wildlife has begun idly wandering through the park in front of my Inn. So, silver linings abound - if not rainbows. Stay well and safe Steve and Anne. - Wendy
Comment Written 03-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 03-Apr-2020
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Thanks, Wendy. Great to hear how you are coping with this brave new world and that you can see sneaky silver linings.
Not a lot has changed here. Our cases have gone up quite regularly by about 70 per day, but the good news is that we still only have one death, 13 hospital admissions with only 3 in ICU - so the system can comfortably cope with that.
Our lockdown seems to be holding quite well, although there will always be a few dickheads. Our police are really good at friendly warnings, although they do have the powers to enforce quarantine.
We haven't left the property for ten days or so and are happy to continue, although at some stage I may have to sneak into town for urgent supplies. Being shut up like this seems to increase the appetite, or maybe it's just the extra opportunity to raid the fridge.
Keep those lungs well away from anyone who might be infected and just stay safe.
Steve
Comment from Lise Deangelo
Kia Ora Steve, we are in opposites ends of the country; I am in Dunedin city. We are now into day eight of lockdown (yes, I am up far too late) I haven't been on FS for seven years. I'd like to say that I don't know where the time has gone. I returned briefly to contribute to the book for Brooke, but it was too difficult for me to consider FS in her absence. But...here I am!
I enjoyed reading your account of the lockdown. Those in my "bubble" only venture out when it is absolutely necessary- for medicine or supplies when the supermarket delivery service is closed because of high demands. My sixteen-month-old grandson is teething rather dramatically at the moment. He's taken to screeching about it. So, a little FS will be a welcome respite for me. Take care, and I look forward to any further updates.
Lise
reply by the author on 01-Apr-2020
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Kia Ora Steve, we are in opposites ends of the country; I am in Dunedin city. We are now into day eight of lockdown (yes, I am up far too late) I haven't been on FS for seven years. I'd like to say that I don't know where the time has gone. I returned briefly to contribute to the book for Brooke, but it was too difficult for me to consider FS in her absence. But...here I am!
I enjoyed reading your account of the lockdown. Those in my "bubble" only venture out when it is absolutely necessary- for medicine or supplies when the supermarket delivery service is closed because of high demands. My sixteen-month-old grandson is teething rather dramatically at the moment. He's taken to screeching about it. So, a little FS will be a welcome respite for me. Take care, and I look forward to any further updates.
Lise
Comment Written 01-Apr-2020
reply by the author on 01-Apr-2020
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Hi, Lise.
Yes, the loss of Brooke hit many of us rather hard. She was a friend to many and exemplified the best of FS as well as being a marvellous poet.
So, welcome back. I think most of us need time away from FS now and then and I'm in a quiet time too as far as writing is concerned, although I do spend way too much time in the political forum!
Good luck with the come-back - and with the teething child. I take it he is in lockdown with you.
Steve
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Thanks Steve. Yes, I have my grandson in lockdown with me, and another due early May. So I have enough to keep me busy :)
Comment from damommy
First of all, I love the names of your little creatures. Here in Arkansas, I'm told we have 497 cases, 3 dead, and 29 recovering. I've been in total isolation due to my age and having lupus, but I'm blessed with sons who keep me supplied and entertained, while maintaining strict habits of cleanliness. My youngest son is a paramedic, and I worry about him the most. I getting used to all this pampering and may never recover from it. lol.
reply by the author on 31-Mar-2020
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First of all, I love the names of your little creatures. Here in Arkansas, I'm told we have 497 cases, 3 dead, and 29 recovering. I've been in total isolation due to my age and having lupus, but I'm blessed with sons who keep me supplied and entertained, while maintaining strict habits of cleanliness. My youngest son is a paramedic, and I worry about him the most. I getting used to all this pampering and may never recover from it. lol.
Comment Written 31-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 31-Mar-2020
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😂
Hi, Yvonne. Sounds like your state has about the same number of cases as our country. Let's hope the social distancing works and keeps those numbers down.
Enjoy the pampering while you can!
Steve
Comment from Pam (respa)
-Thanks for sharing the
photo and notes, Steve,
as well a what is going on in NZ.
-You wrote it very well and
it has a calming effect about it.
-And as you mentioned, much
different than what is over here.
-As far as our situation, we live
on a small section of a bigger
lake community with about 20
homes on the street, well spread out.
-Some have places in FL and are not here.
-You don't see people too much
outdoors, anyway, so you don't
run into people.
-We practice the isolation, and
mainly go out for walks, spend
time on FS, write, watch some t.v.,
read, and so on.
-Like everyone, we are hoping
that this is contained and stopped very soon!
-I feel for the people who have
lost loved ones or friends, and who
no longer have their job, and
don't have much to fall back on.
-Your farm and animals sound
like a great place to be. Thanks for
sharing it.
reply by the author on 31-Mar-2020
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-Thanks for sharing the
photo and notes, Steve,
as well a what is going on in NZ.
-You wrote it very well and
it has a calming effect about it.
-And as you mentioned, much
different than what is over here.
-As far as our situation, we live
on a small section of a bigger
lake community with about 20
homes on the street, well spread out.
-Some have places in FL and are not here.
-You don't see people too much
outdoors, anyway, so you don't
run into people.
-We practice the isolation, and
mainly go out for walks, spend
time on FS, write, watch some t.v.,
read, and so on.
-Like everyone, we are hoping
that this is contained and stopped very soon!
-I feel for the people who have
lost loved ones or friends, and who
no longer have their job, and
don't have much to fall back on.
-Your farm and animals sound
like a great place to be. Thanks for
sharing it.
Comment Written 31-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 31-Mar-2020
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Hi, Pam. Thanks for reading and for the description of your own situation. You don't say which state you are in and your profile only says mid-Atlantic coast so I'm guessing Virginia, Delaware, Carolinas even...
Good to hear you are well and reasonably safe in your isolation. I am very worried about the spiralling numbers in your country. It is such a vast land with so many large cities which seems to be where the virus is flourishing.
Stay safe.
Steve
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Thanks for your reply, Steve. We are in NJ, about 40 min. outside Philadelphia. It is a combination of smallish towns, farms, and lakes. I think it is northern NJ that's having the biggest problems but there is definitely isolation and many businesses closed or in a modified state, take out only in restaurants, etc.
We are doing well and hope you are, too.
Comment from w.j.debi
Hi Steve,
Thanks to reaching out to everyone.
Here in Utah we have over 700 cases and 4 deaths statewide. The county I live in has 50 cases and no deaths so far. School was closed at the first of the month and the closure has been extended until May 1.
We had a 5.7 earthquake about 10 days ago and that forced some people out of their damaged homes. We've had over 300 aftershocks, mostly small ones. I've only felt a few of them.
Thankfully, because the schools were closed those displaced from their homes were able to temporary shelter in the schools.
We are on lockdown with only essential services open such as grocery stores, mail service and, of course, healthcare.
I am lucky I live on couple acres with my horses just outside my back door. They are enjoying all the extra attention.
reply by the author on 30-Mar-2020
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Hi Steve,
Thanks to reaching out to everyone.
Here in Utah we have over 700 cases and 4 deaths statewide. The county I live in has 50 cases and no deaths so far. School was closed at the first of the month and the closure has been extended until May 1.
We had a 5.7 earthquake about 10 days ago and that forced some people out of their damaged homes. We've had over 300 aftershocks, mostly small ones. I've only felt a few of them.
Thankfully, because the schools were closed those displaced from their homes were able to temporary shelter in the schools.
We are on lockdown with only essential services open such as grocery stores, mail service and, of course, healthcare.
I am lucky I live on couple acres with my horses just outside my back door. They are enjoying all the extra attention.
Comment Written 30-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 30-Mar-2020
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Hi. Thanks for reading and for your update. Coronavirus has taken over the news to such an extent that I didn't even hear about your earthquake. As if things weren't bad enough!
Sounds as if you are rural which is probably a great place to be until this dies down. Good luck.
Steve
Comment from lightink
Hi Steve, I'm glad that life looks almost normal for you and your family. Thank you for telling us how things are over there. May you stay happy, healthy and your community remain strong and kind!
In Minnesota, we are at 500 cases, 9 deaths. School closed two weeks ago, shelter in place started on Friday (but we've been practicing it since the school closed). Tests are not freely available to public. Our governor is great, but the National Public Radio stopped reporting the president's daily briefing because of the amount of misinformation in it.
Me and my family is okay right now. My boys are 3 and 5 and really miss school, but they play well together. I bake much more than usual, and started to meditate again. My husband works from home. Three weeks ago I had a fever, and some chest tightness for about 10 days. Then, I was very worried. Now, I'm much better, except having injured my arm while chasing my boys as mommy-monster. We expect about 7 weeks of quarantine.
reply by the author on 30-Mar-2020
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Hi Steve, I'm glad that life looks almost normal for you and your family. Thank you for telling us how things are over there. May you stay happy, healthy and your community remain strong and kind!
In Minnesota, we are at 500 cases, 9 deaths. School closed two weeks ago, shelter in place started on Friday (but we've been practicing it since the school closed). Tests are not freely available to public. Our governor is great, but the National Public Radio stopped reporting the president's daily briefing because of the amount of misinformation in it.
Me and my family is okay right now. My boys are 3 and 5 and really miss school, but they play well together. I bake much more than usual, and started to meditate again. My husband works from home. Three weeks ago I had a fever, and some chest tightness for about 10 days. Then, I was very worried. Now, I'm much better, except having injured my arm while chasing my boys as mommy-monster. We expect about 7 weeks of quarantine.
Comment Written 29-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 30-Mar-2020
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Thanks for reading and all the info about the state of play in Minnesota. I have watched some of Trump's briefings, but have to say he just doesn't get it. What the people want is clear information about what is happening and what the plans are for dealing with it - not a lot of self-congratulation and meaningless rah-rah about how we will defeat the invisible enemy. His briefing and that from our authorities are like chalk and cheese!
I wish you and your family all the best in this life-changing moment.
Steve
Comment from Jannypan (Jan)
Thank you for the update. You and your family stay safe. Where I live in Midland, Texas there are 11 confirmed cases with 1 death. The surrounding counties have similar results with at least I death. It is a scary situation for sure. Thanks for sharing. Your animals are so cute. I know what you mean about trying to sleep when they want you up to feed them. Respectfully, Jan
reply by the author on 30-Mar-2020
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Thank you for the update. You and your family stay safe. Where I live in Midland, Texas there are 11 confirmed cases with 1 death. The surrounding counties have similar results with at least I death. It is a scary situation for sure. Thanks for sharing. Your animals are so cute. I know what you mean about trying to sleep when they want you up to feed them. Respectfully, Jan
Comment Written 29-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 30-Mar-2020
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Thanks, Jan. I know they're talking up Dallas as one of the next hotspots. I hope you and yours remain safe in these challenging times.
Steve
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
It is good to hear what is happening on the other side of the world and you sound like you are in a good position if you sit tight and keep your head down. Here in the Canary Islands we had a sharp spike yesterday of 34% rise and then it dropped today to 10%, we are hoping we will peak at Easter. The Police are strict here and everyone is adhering to the rules. Take care of yourselves and I reckon you will be okay, I liked the name of your dog! Wobble, so cute! Love Dolly x
reply by the author on 29-Mar-2020
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It is good to hear what is happening on the other side of the world and you sound like you are in a good position if you sit tight and keep your head down. Here in the Canary Islands we had a sharp spike yesterday of 34% rise and then it dropped today to 10%, we are hoping we will peak at Easter. The Police are strict here and everyone is adhering to the rules. Take care of yourselves and I reckon you will be okay, I liked the name of your dog! Wobble, so cute! Love Dolly x
Comment Written 29-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 29-Mar-2020
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No, WOMBLE. You are probably too young to know what that is!
Thanks for the review and update. You are probably better off in the Canaries than in the UK right now. Keep safe.
Steve
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Sorry my computer altered by words for me! Yes I knew your dog was named Womble, could it be the Wombles of Wimbledon? Love Dolly x
Comment from Sanku
New zealand is a mall place compared to India. here we have almost 1000 cases and 25 deaths. In my city which is one of the largest 4 cities in india with a population of 8 million, the number of affected persons is 17, with no deaths. Our weather may help -so we think unless the virus mutates- since this is a hot weather city with 8 months of summer .
We are in the 5th day of lockdown. But the people are not very responsible.Police have a tough time chasing them back Government has opened a number of free kitchens for the poor.
Today sitting at home we prayed for the safety of the world.It was a coordinated effort, for one hour, starting from 6 30 in the evening. We ended our prayers with the chanting of a mantra which means ' Let the entire world be happy'
This is the first time in a month I am coming to the site.
reply by the author on 29-Mar-2020
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New zealand is a mall place compared to India. here we have almost 1000 cases and 25 deaths. In my city which is one of the largest 4 cities in india with a population of 8 million, the number of affected persons is 17, with no deaths. Our weather may help -so we think unless the virus mutates- since this is a hot weather city with 8 months of summer .
We are in the 5th day of lockdown. But the people are not very responsible.Police have a tough time chasing them back Government has opened a number of free kitchens for the poor.
Today sitting at home we prayed for the safety of the world.It was a coordinated effort, for one hour, starting from 6 30 in the evening. We ended our prayers with the chanting of a mantra which means ' Let the entire world be happy'
This is the first time in a month I am coming to the site.
Comment Written 29-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 29-Mar-2020
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Thank you for the review and update of conditions in your city, although you don't say what city it is.
Good luck. I do worry about India if this virus really takes a grip there, despite the warmer weather...
Steve
Comment from nancy_e_davis
Steve, I live in a remote city in the Nevada mountains, We have no cases in White Pine County so far. When I moved here there was only about 7000 people in the county.
Of course Nevada is a desert state. Las Vegas and Reno have most of the people. I have 10 acres rural. I am still holding my breath hoping we will remain unscathed by the Virus. No one has to come through Ely unless they are coming to Ely. LOL We are not on any main route. We are in lockdown same as all other cities. It has worked here so far. This is a good idea. Stay in and stay safe. Nancy:)
reply by the author on 29-Mar-2020
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Steve, I live in a remote city in the Nevada mountains, We have no cases in White Pine County so far. When I moved here there was only about 7000 people in the county.
Of course Nevada is a desert state. Las Vegas and Reno have most of the people. I have 10 acres rural. I am still holding my breath hoping we will remain unscathed by the Virus. No one has to come through Ely unless they are coming to Ely. LOL We are not on any main route. We are in lockdown same as all other cities. It has worked here so far. This is a good idea. Stay in and stay safe. Nancy:)
Comment Written 29-Mar-2020
reply by the author on 29-Mar-2020
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Thanks, Nancy. Sounds like you are in a good place to hunker down and stay safe. I forgot to mention in my piece that Anne has emphysema so is at high risk if she contyracts the virus. One more reason to be especially careful.
Steve
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This morning we have one reported case. Keep her safe Steve and God Bless you both. Nancy:)
