I wrote a post a while ago entitled “Too Immersed” here https://sharons-blog.com/?p=13906

It was about how I assume the attitude of what I’m reading. If it’a post-apocalyptic story, I assume that the same situation is in the present time.

I did it again… I just read at least three more post-apocalyptic EMP sci-fi stories in a row. By the time I finished the third one, I was hoarding. I was watching my use of everything. My food supplies became more important to me, my water was cherished, the temperature was too hot or too cold with concern.

When I got up in the middle of the night, I cherished the power to give me illumination to get to the bathroom.

When will I learn?

I suppose being conservative with supplies is good, but when I’m in a book of that genre, I am obsessed.

I hope it never comes to a point where I really need those conservative skills, but I’ll be prepared.

Last night I mentioned to my friend, Phil, that I planned to go to Fiore’s for fish. He was also going. Although we were going separately we decided it would be nice to be at the same table.

He called me about 15 minutes after I thought he’d arrive. (I was waiting for him.)
He’d mis-placed his car keys and couldn’t find them. I drove back to his house and picked him up and took him to Fiore’s.

Our dinner was pleasant. I was home (after dropping him off) at 8:00.

As he said, he thinks of me almost like a “sister.” That’s fine with me. I like him but certainly not romantically.

He’s definitely having problems walking so might not go to the dance tomorrow (Sunday) night. But we all enjoy his company so hope he makes it.

This noon my friend, Ron Wood, stopped over and we went to the clubhouse for lunch.

He’s a super sweet very easy going guy. We chattered about a variety of topics and he left at about 2:15. Nice experience.

At least now I can say I’ve had a “date.” It was just a casual lunch but I’d do it again in a heartbeat. I’m not anxious to be exclusively with anyone but I enjoyed Ron’s company.

I went to an Oldies but Goodies dance with Pat and her friend Joan. We enjoyed the music but I like dancing with guys and NOT ONE asked me. I danced with the girls, but there weren’t many single guys and I didn’t ask any so I didn’t dance with any males. I guess it was better than being home alone. I’d do it again, but I like prefer male dance partners.

I have definitely realized that the fabric storm protectors for the windows would still be a lot of work to put up. I contacted StormFitters and they worked up a price to install all storm rated windows. It’s a considerable expense (three times the cost of the fabric protectors) but I won’t have to worry. It will be worth it. There’s no rush now that Dorian has passed, but when a storm approaches, I don’t want a lot of work and they’ll add more to the value of the condo. I believe Tampa Electric will also give me a rebate because the storm rated windows cut down on energy loss. It’s a wise move.

Last week I agreed to buy hurricane resistant fabric covering for my windows.

As the hurricane moved past me, I realized I need to be independent. There was no one to help me and the fabric window coverings would be hard for me to put up. I called the company (Storm Fitters) and they’ll let me switch to hurricane resistant windows! The salesman will work up the difference in price. I know it’ll be more but I’ll always be ready for a storm and I won’t have to do anything (except move stuff off the patio, which is enough).

I also this afternoon worked with Hillsborough County to make sure that my deed is appropriately registered. It was supposed to be in my name with Kelly as my next of kin. Instead they’d made Kelly the owner. That would also have affected additional deductions including my homestead deduction and widow status. It’s now fixed! Yeah!!!!

And the guy came to install my garage door opener. It’s wonderful! I finally have a light in my garage and a keypad on the outside. I hooked it up to my smartphone so, even if I’m not home, I can check to see if it’s down or up. I’m happy.

Oh, yes, and Kelly and Dave’s flights were changed for December 21st. Actually American Airlines only advised me of the change to Dave’s but when I called them, I found both itineraries have been delayed about 15 minutes.

It was a productive day.

After worrying, Dorian took the hint and is staying out in the ocean on the east side of the state.

We won’t feel the effects at all.

Yes, I moved some light furniture from my open patio to my screened lanai, but I didn’t do anything major.