The outside world, that is. States are (foolishly, imo) opening up again. Not NJ because we’re still throbbing with illness and death, with our long term care/nursing homes being hit hardest. For months now I’ve been watching the cases creep further and further south in the state.
![](https://kimberussell.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/turkey0420.jpg)
With a tentative return-to-office date of June 1, I have no idea how I’m going to switch from “stay in or else you’re going to spread death” mode back to “don’t forget your id badge byyeeee” mode. I don’t think I could wear a mask all day at my cubicle. Will I feel comfortable getting back onto the train? I felt fine commuting on March 13th but now? Eeesh. Yet, spending $17/day to cross the bridge and park at work isn’t very appealing either.
![beer can in front of a laptop](https://kimberussell.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/asaemmc0420.jpg)
If you’re into webinars and continuing education in your field, this is a fantastic time to build up hours. I’ve been attending webinars weekly and a large meeting that I would loved to attend in DC last month went virtual AND free. I’m considering pursuing a certification in my chosen field. Who knows…I have the time.
![84 day crossword streak screenshot](https://kimberussell.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/nyt043020.jpg)
My New York Times crossword streak is still going. 84 days and counting. Every day I’m beating my time average too!
![bird feeder on the outside of a window.](https://kimberussell.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/windowFeeder0420.jpg)
I put two bird feeders out this week: one for hummingbirds and one that suctions to the window for the rest of the birds. This will prevent my birdseed eating-and-pooping pup from getting into it.
I’m starting to read again too. I tell myself to muscle through one chapter and then I can stop. I always end up going longer, which is good. Reading is a muscle and I don’t want to let it atrophy like the rest of my muscles have been.
Tomorrow it’s supposed to be 73 degrees and I am HERE for it. April was COLD. I’ll take pictures of the garden. I’m fiercely proud of the new raised beds that WM built.
Welcome May. Please be kind.