Consuela, I'm so sorry. I honestly don't understand how we got here. (Today I came up with a theory about leaded gasoline, but it's not much comfort.) I don't know what I could possibly offer, but let me know if I can do anything from far away.

Working for a state university makes me a little nervous, I tell you what.

I got a little into it there and depressed myself, so I deleted most of it and pulled myself back out. Anyone have a suggestion for a small action for good today?

Eeeeeeeeee, Japan!

Hoping for not too terrible for mr flea

And Hec, I find it surprisingly easy to imagine you in Japan. I hope you both have a fantastic time.

Bon Voyage Hec!

Emily do you have a local food bank? Donating money or volunteering is almost always an unmixed good.

Brenda why do you not have a water bill?

The water here is from a well.

We are on the city sewer line (thank dog) but not on municipal water.

We’ll all be excited to hear Japan reports!

Suela, you’ve been on my mind these past few days. So enraging. I don’t know who else around here (directly, immediately) impacted, besides possibly flea’s DH, but I’m really sorry for all this painful unnecessary and ultimately destructive bullshit you’re dealing with.

the pin prick shotgun holes in the picture window

Is there a good story to go with that?

dcp, we're flying out

DavidS, thank you for indulging my entertainment.

Bon voyage! Stay hydrated.

Emily, a small action for good (for you) is to get things in order so it is already done should an emergency come. May not seem directly related to current political things, but having “stuff” prepared is important when you don’t know what is coming. - passport and other important docs. Updated and in a safe location that someone else knows about. - emergency contacts in your phone and informed that you are identifying them as such. - wills and advanced healthcare directive done - car repairs/home repairs - updating any technology that might need replacing before tariffs - paying down or off debt - creating space in your place (if possible) for a friend/family should the need arise (making a plan for yourself should the need arise) -limit things that increase anxiety (news consumption, social media) - take time for things that are enjoyable and distress you, walks, meditation, comfort reading or tv watching, calls with friends, drives.

For others longer term: Find somewhere to volunteer for vulnerable people. Unsheltered, lqbtqia, undocumented, Dv victims, reproductive rights orgs. Donate an item a week or so to a food bank. Call your state and federal representatives when there is something up for vote you feel strongly about.

Stay warm, Gud. Sounds like it's fixed?

Yes, it's fixed. It was a bad control board.