“Lucy, want to play with my watermelon?”
“Catching 40 winks, Little one.”
“It’s Friday, and you are winking?”
“We have all day.”
“Promise?”
“Yup.”
Another Friday, and Texas is wide open. I wonder if two weeks from now, there will be a resultant spike in Rona. I guess we will see. I get my first shot today. I finally got an appointment on the Southside of Austin. A 45-minute drive. The local CVS is giving shots, but getting an appointment there is impossible. I will be getting the Pfizer two-shot dose. I keep hearing stories of line jumpers who actually lie about their eligibility. The only positive spin I can think of is that they will be protected and not infect others.
The COVID relief bill passed the house’s final vote. The President is ready to sign. Can any of us even imagine $1.9 Trillion with a T? Well, I did a little research, and if you stacked 1 trillion seven feet high, it would take up 2.2 acres or 96,768 square feet. Almost double for 1.9 Trillion. So say 14 feet high. (By the way, once you stack, it pray the wind doesn’t kick up.) Your cut will be $1,400 unless you make too much money. By too much, we are talking $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for couples. 8% of households make at least $150,000.
I also want to discuss the fact that I am falling behind on my productivity goals for the next book and feel I have to take some action. You may be aware that my Top Ten Things Not to Do post published on Monday involves a lot of research. The length of time it takes is usually three or more hours to put it to bed. I always felt the time was well spent since the post generally delivered on humor and education. Also, a few history buffs enjoyed the post, and I saw them as muses. Well, they have stopped visiting regularly, so I take this as a hint to revise my schedule. I will be posting a Top Ten list but will pull some of the best from the past. Also, if there is a special day (Like national Pizza Day), I will create new copy since very little research is needed to be ridiculous.
I do hope you understand. Today’s JohnKu talks about keeping an even keel. I hope you have a great weekend.
Adjust by John W.Howell © 2021
When the seas get rough,
The sails need an adjustment . . .
To weather the storm.
Fiction Favorites 
That makes perfect sense to me, John. That is a lot of research time each week. Good luck with the jab. I love today’s Haiku. The line, ‘It’s Friday, and you’re winking?’ has me chuckling away. Have a wonderful weekend 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Harmony. I hope your weekend is peaceful and happy as well. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m with you 100%, John. Three hours is a lot of time to justify devoting to research where the payback is not certain.
Vaccine queue jumpers could soon cease to be an issue if, as your president says, all American adults will be eligible for a vaccine by 1st May. I assume, when he says all Americans, he’s including residents without citizenship status. It would be tragic if the virus were allowed to run rampant through the least advantaged in the country.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Our President owns the fact that the borders are being opened. I hope he has consicered all the consequences. When he said all Americans I think he was talking about North and South Americans since his platform is not restricted to citizens. In fact, he really doesn’t concern himself with citizens as much as world politics.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glad you were able to receive your shot, John. My mother got hers last weekend. As for the outlook from here, that 14 foot high stack of money, when broken down into personal increments will be the equivalent of the Bob Dylan song. But hey, it’s something.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yes it is. I hope it will do some good. The rest of the bill will bear watching since it contains a lot of political self interest.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Of course it does. It’s like a burrito that we’ll be paying for down the road . . .
LikeLiked by 1 person
A gas station burrito. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aye aye aye!
LikeLiked by 1 person
!Ay Caramba!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You started it. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I did.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You must do what you need to do for you, John…only so many hours in the day. 😉 Very worried about Texas’ ‘wide open’ status and hoping it doesn’t backfire. Glad that you have finally managed to get in the queue for a shot. Happy Friday!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Lori. I jumped in before the next wave scheduled for the 15th wich the supplies are not adequate to handle. Have a great weekend. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
I totally understand your reasoning behind the top ten research. I’ve often wondered where you found the time. We all have the same hours in each day, and it’s up to each of us to figure out the best way to be the most productive. Good for you! Florida seems to be doing well so far with their reopen, let’s pray Texas follows the same trend. I’m glad you’re getting your first shot, John. I had mine last week…no side effects. Have a great Friday!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Jill. I hope the opening goes well. I really worry about the spring breakers and the bars. That’s where large spikes occured last year. Have a super Friday.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good point on the line jumpers. Have to figure if they’re selfish enough to do that then they’re highly likely to act recklessly while unvaccinated.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Maybe getting them covered is a good thing. 😁
LikeLike
Good morning, dear John,
to get the jab was very easy here in England. You just got invited by phone or email and you could choose between three dates. Here they did it comprehensively, everyone in our village got the jab. For some time we get tested weekly. In our district we haven’t had any covid infections for one month now. Here all the people followed the restriction quite well.
When I was writing and planning a new book I didn’t look at my emails and didn’t blog. All the communication was redirected to my agent. I suppose you need to do this and especially block phone and email contacts. The problem is to get distracted easily.
Wishing you a great weekend
Klausbernd and the rest of
The Fab Four of Cley
🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Klausbernd. The probem here in the US is most citizens are unwilling to give up personal freedom. So, heavy restrictions are always met with resistance. The federal govenment, because of the Constitutional guarentee of states rights, is lacking in the ability to control circumstances, and also as proven, the availability of vaccine. Had it been left to the vaccine maufacturers, every healthcare provider would have been given supplies enough to cover the population quickly. The rub then would be who pays? Our federal government is picking up the tab for those wthout insurance. Under a private system there would be no way for the Feds to control the coverage of un-insured so they chose a more centeralized distribution method. In England, you have a history of government controlled healthcare, so your system works very well in this situation. On your ability to close out interference I am very envious. have a great weekend as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much, dear John, for this explaination. Here the British people are very proud of their government controlled healthcare. And you are right, together with Isreal England has most of its citicens vaccined without any problems. Well, the English are pragmatic and were convinced that the restrictions will help and proved right.
All the best, keep well
Klausbernd 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great plan, John. I don’t remember from one year to the next, so your “old” posts will be new to me. 😁 All the best on your vaccination. Take care of yourself.
LikeLiked by 2 people
P.S. Fantastic photo of the pups. 💗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Gwen.
LikeLiked by 1 person
In blogging, one must do what they have to do – and you are the one who knows what is best for you – especially if you have to make up for lost time on your next book.
In terms of the vaccine, as I like to say – each state is different and every county in a state is different. I was fortunate to get Pfizer in Alabama as an out-of-stater – and shot 2 was on March 1. Oh – I drove 1 hour and 20 minutes (one way) to get it. My wife had to wait until we returned to Ohio, but she is scheduled to get JNJ in a matter of hours. Fortunately, she only has to drive 25 minutes. If you feel a little off, especially after the second shot, take ibuprofen or Tylenol.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the advice, Frank. Gald you are protected.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well … they will probably tell you that anyway … but it worked.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It makes good sense to cut back on the time-consuming blog posts to focus on your WIP. As you say, very little research is needed to be ridiculous. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hahaha.. Thanks, Liz.
LikeLike
I can’t blame you at all for revising your Monday schedule. Reclaim your time.
Happy to hear you got an appointment. I’m sure it sets your mind at ease.
Have a nice weekend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Staci. I think it will be good to get the shot done.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi John – I’m glad you’re getting the vaccine – good luck today. Love the Johnku!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Barbara. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
Happy to hear you have an appointment. I also got the Pfizer with a only few side effects. (Sore arm and a little fatigued after the second dose.)
Fingers crossed we don’t get another surge.
And I hear you on research. It does take a lot of time. Reclaim that for yourself!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Joan. Terrific advice. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
First off, Yay, Friday! Wish I could wink a tad more but, c’est la vie; don’t have that luxury yet.
Second – YAY to you getting the vaccine – no matter where you have to go.
Third – Good for you. It’s your time, your blog, your decision. When you start feeling the return is not worth the investment, then, yes, by all means, change it up!
Fourth (my goodness) – I sure hope Texas knows what its doing… and that the fallout is not what it can be.
Have a fantabulous Friday, my friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m not sure Texas knows what it is doing but we will find out. Thank you for the encouraging words, Dale. 🤗
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well, we will see, won’t we?
You know it, Boss. 🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes we will. 🙄
LikeLiked by 1 person
As I like to say, all of us have all the time there is. Deciding how best to allocate it is the trick. You need to satisfy yourself; we’re just along for the ride!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hahaha. Thank you, Linda. 🚙
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yay for getting your first shot today! Hubby and I still haven’t made the cut, but both sons have because of their jobs. I’m with Staci – reclaim your time – three hours spent on one post is too much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t blame you at all. My character interviews took massive amounts of time. Interest started waning and I decided not to beat the streets of blogland for guests. It freed up a lot of time. Glad you can get the vaccine. We’re still waiting out here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad you got your first shot! We got the Pfizer too with no side effects.Yes, let us hope there is no spike after spring break and the state being opened. And we will see if the trillion will be the right decision for the economy. Pace yourself and do what works for you. TGIF to you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thak you, Jo. Very wise words. 😁
LikeLike
I agree with you, John, about a possible spike, but let’s hope we’re both wrong. The girls are adorable and what a set-up for them! I love the steps and may buy some for Copper soon. 🙂 I understand about the top ten list too. Just do what feels right and glad you’re getting your first shot. My hubby got his yesterday and I can’t wait for mine. Happy Friday and great Ku!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Lauren. I do hope I’m wrong. Happy weekend to you. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
Research is very time consuming, John for blogs and books. A good idea to repost all your gems, I know I will enjoy that! Congrats on getting your shot appt 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the supportive words, Denise.
LikeLike
That sounds like a plan, John. Well done on getting your jab. I want one too, as does most of the world I suppose. Can’t imagine the last administration would have shelled out 1.9 trillion. Have a good weekend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
No. Not a Republican voted for it. So we are headed down the path of bigger government.
LikeLike
Good luck to you, John. I get my first shot tomorrow, also with about a 45 minute drive – the reason being is, no place has it in the south half of my county. At least it is at my doctor’s other office and I will be inside with AC, even for my 15 my 15 minute observation time. For the first time in my life, I’m willing to say, “Thank you Big Pharma!”
LikeLike
I can’t help but think the health ministers are jumping the gun with relaxing just before spring break! I hope and pray I’m wrong.
Glad you managed to get an appointment, John {{hugs}}
LikeLiked by 1 person
The health folks are all against it. It is the Governor who makes the decision. I agree he has jumped the gun. Have a super weekend, Jacquie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a curious Friday picture of the Twiggy Resort. Lucy & Twigy are preparing for Saint Patrick’s Day! I’m glad to hear that you have solved the vaccination dilemma, my dear friend. Be it good for you! Have a nice warm week-end! 🍺☘☘☘
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Maria. I hope you have a warm, restful, and rewarding weekend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so glad to hear you’ll be getting your shots. I’m getting mine next week 🙂 John, maintaining a daily blog while working on a novel is a Herculean feat. Doing “reruns” of the Top Ten Things is a great idea! You know many of those posts are timeless 🙂 xoxo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Marie. Good luck on the shots.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your JohnKu makes perfect sense. There are times we just have to readjust our schedules, and it sounds like you have a good plan in mind. Go for it!
I’m also thrilled you’re going to be getting your first shot. Good for you! The first step in getting back to almost normal!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Mae. Almost normalis the way to say it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi, John! I love your Johnku this week! It’s so accurate. $1.9 Trillion seems like a made up number. I’m happy you’re finally getting your vaccine. 😀 xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Vashti. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
It seems that we are always adjusting our sails, John. I have not found a place yet to get the vaccine. It seems easier for folks in smaller towns than the big cities. I’ll keep looking. Love the JohnKu and no worries about cutting back on blogging. There is NO way I could do it every day and still manage to get any writing done. So, do what works for you. We aren’t going anywhere. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Are you using CVS drugs? The key there is to go online about 5:30 AM. You will have a 15 to 30 minute wait before scheduling begins because of traffic. Here’s the link to start if you don’t have it. https://www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine. You start by clicking on Texas and then the wait begins. Hope this helps.
LikeLike
We’re always trimming and adjusting the sails through life so you trim and adjust and I’ll do my part and show up to read your Top Ten…sometimes late, but I’ll be there! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are never late, Deborah. Just delayed. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
😀
LikeLike
You always have the perfect JohnKu. Always. Like you, I have been up at the crack of dawn for a week trying to book a vaccination appointment at CVS. I finally got my first shot today, and the whole process was smooth as silk. I won’t tell you have awful it is here in Massachusetts to get vaccinated (unless you are lucky enough to get a slot at CVS). Let’s hope the Texans who are gathering in big crowds are vaccinated (wishful thinking).
I personally LOVE your Top Ten posts. I can only imagine the work and research that goes into those posts. They’re funny, educational, and historical. Just perfect. To give yourself a break, yes please repost older Top Ten posts. All of your followers will enjoy them just much the second time around. I certainly will!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your support, Jennie.
LikeLike
All the best with what lies ahead for you, John. 🙂 — Suzanne
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Suzanne.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi John, I’m glad you are getting vaccinated. It still blows my mind, how the powers that be, are allowing things to go on like this in Texas. I hear you about the time management issue. It’s one thing or the other, and we have to make choices about what’s most important. Your ‘Johnku’ speaks volumes about rolling with the punches. Stay safe, my friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Mark. 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person