Out and About – Week of December 28th

Thank God this year is almost over. It has been reported that this year has been one of the worst years in American history when it comes to health concerns. Since last March, there hasn’t been a single newscast that hasn’t had some mention of Covid-19. Thousands of Americans have died and at last report there is no end in sight, because of a new strain in the virus. What are we to do?

We have been given advice by health and science professionals on the best way to handle this pandemic. Unfortunately, those individuals who refuse to abide by these suggestions outnumber those who are trying to follow the rules. It has turned into a “political battle”, and if it continues, no one will win the battle. Once again, I’m going to list some suggestions that most of us are taking less seriously than we did at first. Here’s a list of ways to stay healthy. You’ve heard all of this before:

When washing your hands, scrub for at least twenty seconds. If you can’t wash, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands. Use tissues instead of hankies. Then throw them away.
If you’re around someone coughing, move at least six feet away from them.
At home or in the office place, clean frequently-touched surfaces. Wash or sanitize your hands after visiting public spaces.
Keep a bottle of sanitizer in your vehicle. Use it every time you get into your car or truck.
Avoid crowds at any cost.
If you travel out of state to visit relatives. Self-quarantine yourself upon returning home for at least seven days.
The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency says that Flu is actively circulating in all three of these counties. Novel coronavirus is not. If you are sick, stay home.

The year 2020 has been a pretty negative year. It’s difficult to think of anything positive that has happened or has made us laugh. I want to end this year with something that might just make you at least chuckle:

Half the people you know are below average.
If you want the rainbow, you got to put up with the rain.
The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.
Eagles may soar, but weasels don’t get sucked into jet engines.
If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you.
I would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year. May 2021 be a year filled with happiness and many opportunities to once again hug each other and shake hands.

One more positive thought. The days are getting a few minutes longer everyday.

See you Out and About!

Submitted by Norm Stutesman