The Blind Post classified news
From and for the blind and visually impaired.
April Special edition 2020
Current subscribers to date: 1,204
If you no longer wish to receive emails from the Blind Post news, you can unsubscribe by sending an email to:
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Contents for this month’s issue:
This month’s sponsor- Psalm 23 prescription.
Special poems- To uplift and entertain.
From the editor, by Lori Motis.
New and used.
Wanted, to trade, or to give away.
Announcements.
Services and training.
Business and employment opportunities.
This month’s articles:
Global cane outreach- Current Update on Uganda Mission’s Trip by Donna Kimball.
Tech corner- STAY SAFE WITH PHONE CLEANING TIPS AND BEST PRACTICES.
Blind man Walking- Hoping for smoothe waters in the future by Joshua Loya.
Living with low vision- I’m Positive by Donna Williams.
Tips and tidbits from the Food Lady-.
Driving Miss Donna- “The Drive” By Lynn Anderson.
Blind people talking-. Two wonderful stories from Meagan Green and Donna Kimball
From the pages of Donna’s travel diary- Let us try the virtual way By Donna J. Jodhan.
Yarn, hook, and needle- APRIL SHOWERS by Phyllis Campbell.
Also, Greg’s No Sew Face Mask.
Other important info:
How to post and pay for an ad or announcement,
new 2020 word counts and costs.
What can you post to the Blind Post?
Subscriptions to the Blind Post.
This month’s sponsor
Prescription
The 23rd Psalm
Read five times per day for seven days.
Read first thing when you awaken in the morning.
Read it carefully, meditatively, and prayerfully.
Read it again immediately after breakfast in the same way.
Also, immediately after lunch.
Again, after dinner,
And finally, the last thing before going to bed.
It is not to be a quick hurried reading. Think about each phrase. Giving your mind time to soak up as much of the meaning as possible.
Suggestions for reading and meditating:
Braille it and keep it where you can easily access it. Perhaps near your bed.
Bookmark it on your victor reader and listen and repeat each line. Keeping your victor reader near your bed for easy access in the morning.
Have it either on your iPhone, iPad, or computer where you can get to it easily first thing in the morning and have with you during the day.
Whichever works the easiest for you personally to be able to follow the prescription precisely.
Psalm 23 King James Version (KJV)
23
The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
2
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3
He restoreth my soul:
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.
4
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me;
thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5
Thou preparest a table before me
in the presence of mine enemies:
thou anointest my head with oil;
my cup runneth over.
6
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Here’s a little something to make your day just a little bit better.
‘Twas The Night Before Quarantine
‘twas the night before quarantine and all through the town, not a restaurant was open, not a school-bus was found.
hand sanitizers were placed by all doorposts with care, in hopes that Corona would never come there.
the children were swinging from the crystal chandeliers, and the stir-crazy babies were almost in tears.
with everyone in health masks and live updates on their screens, we hunkered down and waited for COVID-19.
for into our lives with a sneeze and a cough came a global pandemic and a crash of the stocks.
away to the grocery we all flew like a flash, and bought all the toilet paper for our personal stash.
as the moon slowly rose on our fates and our fears, what to my wandering mind should appear?
in the absence of busyness a new life taking form:
in the stillness of solitude, in the silence of the storm.
in the magic of together and home-bound company, rediscovering connection in our family.
so with the pup in her kennel and the children in their beds,
new visions of adventures now danced in my head!
the checklists could wait and the bank accounts would be fine, for we had been given the most sacred gift of time.
so I gathered the markers and crayons and paints, I collected the nerf guns and assembled board games.
with a wink and a smile I moved on to schoolwork: math facts and science and vocabulary words.
I laughed as I thought it, in spite of myself, “what if quarantine can heal our emotional health?”
if the birds are still singing and if the flowers still bloom, surely the sunshine can overcome our gloom.
if we set aside fear and choose kindness instead, maybe we’ll all begin to realize we have nothing to dread.
I tucked back into bed and smiled up at the moon, for a peace had replaced the impending doom.
so take heart and take hope through this curious plight, and
“happy quarantine to all”
until we’re allowed to reunite.”
—Author unknown
Sent by Sugar
going crazy during lockdown
Dear Friends Just be careful because people are going crazy from being in lock down! Actually I’ve just been talking about this with the microwave and toaster while drinking coffee and all of us agreed that things are getting bad. I didn’t mention anything to the washing machine as she puts a different spin on everything and certainly not to the fridge as he is acting cold and distant. In the end the iron calmed me down as she said everything will be fine no situation is too pressing. Well, my vaccuum cleaner said that we just have to suck it up and get on with things…….. My cooker said there’s no pressure and my bed said I should sleep on it ?????? I’ve just chatted to my liquidiser who suggests we should try to blend in with everyone……but the kettle was boiling mad with all the restrictions! … ????????”
—Author unknown
Sent by Debbie.
From the editor:
Hello readers,
How are you doing? I am doing well all things considered. I know last month I said I was going to take a few months off. After that issue, this corona virus pandemic was kicking in with all the guidelines. I thought that this wasn’t really a good time to stop the news. We all need something to bring us some cheer.
I also feel that many prayers have been answered concerning my health and I am so grateful. I had a real difficult time coming off some medications that were messing with my health and my mind. I have come through the other side and am so thankful for all prayers that were on my behalf.
We are in the midst of Holy week and Passover. We are not able to go to services and celebrations like we are used to. We are told that this week and maybe next could be the most difficult for our country. I hope and pray that we will not have too much loss. It is very sad, but we will get through it with God’s help.
I am thankful for our current technology, which enables us to get together with friends conference calls , and listening to church services online. I have been listening to the Moody church live Sunday service on YouTube. It is at 9:00 a.m. Mountain time, which is my time. They are in Chicago. Here is there website where you can find more information on services this week and for Easter service:
https://www.moodychurch.org/easter/
I would have to say my biggest challenge with all of this is learning to not touch my face. As a blind person with prosthetic eyes, I touch my face a lot. I am washing my hands every time I touch some surface, bring in the mail, open packages, and well I must wash them fifty times a day. I have done some walks with my guide dog. So far, this is working, because rarely is there anyone on the sidewalk when I walk. We are not required to wear a mask or face covering, but they may soon come.
How are you doing with these guidelines we have. I think they are helping tremendously to mitigate the spread. Idaho is one of the states that may not reach our peak until later this spring. I hope we can all get back to the way things were before this virus. Personally I want to be able to go shopping at Trader Joes again!
I want to use this time to learn some new things. I just finished a two-month Voice Over class and am now in the beginning an iPad course. Learning new ways to create this news and maintain the website. My goal is to work on getting some of the most recent issues of the Blind Post up on the website.
This is also a great time to organize my home. Spring cleaning is here and with the better weather I can open all my windows and get that wonderful fresh air flowing through my home.
I also am reading lots of books. I have been playing online games with my husband every evening.
Do you know about Librivox. There is an app and you can use your computer as well. There is so many wonderful books that you can listen to for free. I have lots of religious books downloaded from authors like J. C. Rile and Charles H. Spurgeon.
The app is very accessible and so is the website.
Do you know about the online game sites such as RS games and Quentin-C playroom?There is no charge. You just download a file for whatever operating system you are using. There are many card and board games that are accessible, and you can play with many people around the world or with friends and even against a bot.
RS games specializes in the development of accessible games, products and software for the blind and visually impaired. Their focus is on multiplayer board and card games, like Monopoly, Uno, Blackjack, Farkle, Apples to Apples, go fish and many more.
QuentinC’s playroom
The Playroom is a free online gaming platform, especially made to be accessible to visually impaired people.
Anyone can connect! 17 800 players around the world are already waiting to play with you, in 6 languages, and at any time of the day and night. Join us now!
This month’s special issue is full of excellent articles, stories, announcements and notices.
I want to thank all my writers. They’ve done a fantastic job! Lots of wonderful announcements offering many products and items at no charge.
Please let them know you read about them on the Blind Post and forward this to friends and family.
God bless you,
Lori AKA Food Lady
Lori Motis
Publisher & editor of the Blind Post classified news.
A great place to share and sell!
Have you ever wanted to post a time sensitive announcement or several notices before the next month’s Blind Post classified news edition?
Now you can. If you have ads or announcements that are time sensitive, or just have several items, then you can include them in a special Blind Post Extra Extra edition. The word count costs are the same as the monthly news, but not free notices. This works best when you might have more than one item for sale, notice for an event, or a special class or training that is of interest to the blind and low vision community.
It will go out to all Blind Post subscribers within one day of approval, and will also be posted to the website.
Email foodlady@theblindpost.com your submissions and I will let you know if it is suitable and what the cost is.
New and used:
We could all use a little joy or happiness in today’s world.
Fragrance can take us back in time to fond memories such as coming home and smelling Mom’s fresh baked apple pie, walking through a meadow with the spring flowers in bloom or walking along a beach smelling the clean ocean air. Let Scentsy Fill Your Life with Fragrance!!!
Contact Nini Urschel, Independent Scentsy Consultant, 916-206-1151 (cell),
Email: nini95626@sbcglobal.net
Website: www.nini.scentsy.us
or Facebook: NV Wickless Scents & More
One OR CAM for sale. This was only used about 5 times.
It has camera and speaker attached to eye glasses and is connected to small computer held on belt. It scans text and reads it. Call Richard at 757 468 0277 or email me thereb1948@gmail.com
if interested.
Several items:
MusicMan Axis electric guitar with Dimarzio pickups, made in
California, G and L electric bass guitar, Anker 360 degree bluetooth
party speaker with Alexa support and travel case, high end Cambridge
Audio true wireless earbuds with charging case and original box etc.
E-mail: cameron@cameronstrife.com
Wanted, to trade or give away:
Looking for:
My name is Stephen Brown phone number 740-648-0962 my grandmother gave me an old vintage picture of the Lords supper someone stole it if anyone out there has an old vintage picture of the Lords supper I would love to have it if they want to give it to me or maybe if they want to sell it to me if they don’t want to much where I am visually impaired and live on a fixed income
Announcements:
Do you like crafts or want to learn a craft?
The Crafters’ Division is offering an Early Bird membership. Dues are
$20 a year. By joining now, your membership goes through June 30,
2021.
Come check us out at www.krafterskorner.org.
We offer a Monday night chat at 7:40 P.M. EST about a craft topic. You do not need to be a member to join this. For more information contact:
crafters.division.president@gmail.com
Do you enjoy sharing recipes of all types? If yes,
send a blank e-mail to blaindrecipeexchange+subscribe@groups.io
and join the group. Posts should be just recipes with a minimum of chatter.
The Listen Factor (TLF) consists of 8 internet radio stations that play both described and non described tv programs for the blind community free of charge.
During this difficult time of the Corona Virus, we’ve been playing some of our listeners favorite tv episodes. We want to make the world seem a little smaller. Each time we play a request, we send positive thoughts and prayers their way.
For more information, send and email to deniset@cox.net.
Three Free Downloadable Books from National Braille Press
National Braille Press is offering three Free downloadable books until April 30:
Dinner Delivered, Accessible and Easy Ways to Receive Meals Direct to Your Door
by Kim Loftis and Chris Grabowski
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/DELIVERY.html
Getting Visual Assistance with an iPhone
by Judith Dixon
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/VIS-ASSIST.html
Navigating Healthcare, When All They Can See Is that You Can’t
by Deborah Kendrick
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/NAV-HEALTH.html
Downloadable formats include DAISY, BRF, and Microsoft Word. Hard copy versions of these books are also available at half price.
To order any books, send payment to:
NBP, 88 St. Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115-4302
Or call and charge it: toll-free (800) 548-7323 or (617) 266-6160 ext 520.
Or order any of our books online at
http://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/publications/index.html.
The Tech Juggernaut is offering virtual help and support sessions each week
because Apple Retail Stores, and most other in-person locations are closed to traditional business, The Tech Juggernaut is offering virtual help and support sessions each week, as a means for people to get the technical advice they desire at no cost. These sessions are open to everyone. Come and ask your questions about Apple products, media streaming, Wi-Fi networking, home automation and security, ideas for teaching your kids, working from home, getting food delivered, and much, much more.
Sessions will continue to be held every Tuesday and Thursday, from 1PM to 3PM Eastern time. Sessions will continue through at least Thursday April 30.
To join, use the Zoom Cloud Meetings app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, and enter meeting ID:
3116952583
When prompted for a password, enter 232402
Alternatively, use the following link to join from any device:
https://zoom.us/j/3116952583?pwd=YTlJcFVmYjZncXpRcGZPUEx6ZjQwZz09
Hope to see you at our sessions.:)
Freedom Scientific is offering their products, JAWS, Zoomtext, and Fusion free of charge for personal computers at home until June 30, 2020.
From the Freedom Scientific website, here is a description of each product:
“JAWS, Job Access With Speech, is the world’s most popular screen reader, developed for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content or navigating with a mouse. JAWS provides speech and Braille output for the most popular computer applications on your PC. You will be able to navigate the Internet, write a document, read an email and create presentations from your office, remote desktop, or from home.
ZoomText Magnifier/Reader is a fully integrated magnification and reading program tailored for low-vision users. Magnifier/Reader enlarges and enhances everything on your computer screen, echoes your typing and essential program activity, and automatically reads documents, web pages, email.
Fusion provides the best of both worlds – ZoomText® , with its screen magnification and visual enhancements for screen viewing ease, coupled with the power and speed of JAWS® for screen reading functionality. A single installer and one license gives you access to both ZoomText and JAWS individually, or together when run as the combined solution – Fusion.”
This may be a good time, when most of us are confined to our homes, to try the products out for a longer period of time without a financial commitment.
Here is the website:
https://www.freedomscientific.com/
Eyes on success shows and podcasts:
2013 Narrator, Now Better Than Ever (Mar. 25, 2020)
Over the past few years, Microsoft has added a number of major enhancements to the Narrator screen reader that is built into Windows. Hosts Nancy and Peter talk with Jeff Bishop, a program manager in the accessibility team at Microsoft, about some of Narrator’s new features, and why, if you haven’t used Narrator in a while, it might be worth a second look.
2015 Coping While Isolated (Apr. 8, 2020)
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us all to dramatically change our daily routines and develop new strategies for navigating through this difficult time. In this special episode hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey discuss tools and resources you might find useful in work, chores, play, and socializing with friends and family while practicing social distancing.
Previous episodes and all other content can be found at:
Subscribe to the podcast wherever you get your podcasts or listen on your Amazon or Google smart home device by saying “play Eyes On Success podcast”.
Services and training.
This is where any service, either offered to the blind and low vision communities, or a blind person with a service, can be posted. Also, any kind of training that is offered from any school or trainer that caters to this same community.
Email all notices to foodlady@theblindpost.com and I will let you know if it is suitable for the Blind Post.
Business and employment opportunities:
This is where any job opportunities can be posted. Email all notices to foodlady@theblindpost.com and I will let you know if it is suitable for the Blind Post news.
Global cane outreach:
Current Update on Uganda Mission’s Trip
By: Donna Kimball, GCO Board Member
So much has happened in our world since my last Uganda update! With coronavirus concerns locally and countries closing their doors around the world, it has been necessary to postpone the trip. Uganda is one of the countries that closed their door to the USA.
It was also necessary to postpone the “Night of Music” fundraiser. Since we are currently not allowed to meet in groups larger than 10 people, the GCO board realized that the fundraiser needed to be held at another time.
The GCO board is planning at this time to schedule the trip to Uganda for next year. Please pray for us as we make these changes to our plans. Your prayer and support mean everything to us! Thank you for your support and interest in GCO!
Here is our updated go fund me link, if you would like to donate to GCO:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/1w92dvynk0?utm_medium=more&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&rcid=7418bfa308db46afae666706f8731f20
Global Cane Outreach, Inc. is a 501(c)3 ministry based in Scotts Valley California. Our mission is to equip and train the blind and illiterate in other countries with canes and audio bibles. Christ’s love is demonstrated through the giving of canes, mobility, independence and sharing God’s word.
https://www.globalcaneoutreach.org/
Tech corner
STAY SAFE WITH PHONE CLEANING TIPS AND BEST PRACTICES
The outbreak of coronavirus has focused public attention on the need to take sensible precautions to prevent the spread of illness. In addition to regular hand washing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends diligently cleaning commonly touched surfaces that can harbor bacteria, including things like light switches, remote controls and door knobs.
Put your cellphone at the top of that list. According to a 2019 study, a typical cellphone user touches his or her phone 2,617 times every day. While that creates plenty of opportunities to stay connected, it also gives harmful microorganisms you’ve picked up from other surfaces a good chance to travel from your fingers to your device and beyond.
As a general rule, you should clean your phone at least once a day, and more often if it’s been exposed to any potential risk—if, for instance, you’ve been in a crowded public location like a supermarket, doctor’s office, or a movie theater.
Fortunately, there are simple ways you can do this to help combat germs that can live and grow on its surfaces.
•In the past, we were instructed to not use disinfectant wipes on our phone screens, but Apple now says it’s OK to use Clorox Wipes or wipes that have 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean all exterior surfaces of your iPhone.
•For other phones, the safest method is to wipe touchscreens and other exterior surfaces with a microfiber cloth (like a lens cloth) dampened with warm water and soap. This decontaminates the device while also preventing scratches or other damage to protective coatings.
•Though many phones are labeled as water-resistant, don’t put them under a running faucet or immerse them in water. This allows water to enter the phone’s open ports, which need to be completely free of moisture before the phone can be charged.
•If you use a phone case, remove your device from it, then hand wash the case with mild soap or laundry detergent.
In addition to regular cleaning, follow these “best practices” to further protect you from unnecessary exposure to harmful germs and bacteria when using your phone.
•If at all possible, don’t put your phone to your face when making or receiving calls. Orifices like the mouth and eyes are prime entry points for germs, so consider using the phone’s speaker, or headphones that have a microphone, instead.
•Keep your phone to yourself. Sharing it with others adds another layer of risk since it diversifies the kinds of germs you’re coming in contact with.
•Finally, keep your phone in your pocket or purse when going into any bathroom. This will prevent it from coming into contact with the many airborne contaminants commonly found there.
https://www.consumercellular.com/WhyUs/Social/Newsletter/2020/April#2
Blind man walking
By Joshua Loya
I wrote the following while reflecting on my most recent surf contest, the 2020 AmpSurf ISA World Para Surfing Championships. I represented Team USA in the VI-1 (totally blind) division, making it to the finals and taking 4th place. Nearly 130 surfers and representatives from 23 countries gathered in La Jolla, California from March 10 to March 14. Soon after, everything changed. All that surfing, and then nearly nothing. I got out in the water, responsibly, once. I haven’t been surfing since April 1.
Who wants to go surfing tomorrow? Yeah. Me too. Good thing the ocean is flat. Definitely nothing to ride at all…
I think the ocean and the company of my fellow surfers is one of the things I miss the most right now. When so many of us were gathered in La Jolla, less than a month ago, we seemed insulated from global events. We were our own separate society. We cheered for each other’s accomplishments, and we all felt the same pang of disappointment when a fellow surfer missed a wave. We also didn’t have to worry about food. All it took for pancakes and coffee in the morning was a bracelet. Even then, there was often so much food that friends and families of those competing were also served. Aloha was the rule.
At present, we must keep away from the beaches. We are asked to avoid hugging complete strangers. No refreshing beverages at local watering holes over which we inflate the epicness of our drops. No talk of forgetting everything, unplugging, and moving to Costa Rica for a month. No listening to that one friend… and we all have one… that claims that surfing is like bathing and that showers are excessive. (Note: I did have a friend that used to say this… usually after he had polished off the better half of a six pack, but it was something he said with regularity.)
We live in the moment as best we can, hoping for smoothe waters in the future. Right now, it’s storming, and it’s hard to know when things will be glassy again. Today is a read, sip coffee, and do yoga sort of day. The day for another embrace from the ocean is coming. That last wave gifted to us was worth the wait. The next fragment of eternity will be just as sweet.
Joshua Loya is a martial artist and professional adventurer living
near San Diego, California. He recently launched a podcast. You can
find it by searching for Adventuremind in Apple Podcasts and various
other podcast directories.
Learn more about him by visiting his website: www.joshuathejedi.com
Email him at Joshua@joshuathejedi.com
Living with low vision
I’m Positive
By Donna Williams
When Lori mentioned writing uplifting articles for this issue of the Blind Post I began to think about what to say during these strange times of endless corona casts, dire warnings, and what the media like to refer to as social distancing. First about that, if we were truly social distancing people wouldn’t be talking to one another. As usual the media have it wrong. It’s physical distance people need to observe. I think if this were reported correctly it might help us all feel better. The daily corona casts and dire warnings are enough to make anyone feel as though they are going crazy at times. So how am I coping? First off despite the title of this article I’m very happy to report that I’m healthy. No corona virus for me or any members of my family so far. Thank God. We’re doing our best to follow the directives put in place by officials but sometimes it’s daunting.
I hate the term “new normal.” It implies that society won’t return to what we once knew. I can’t imagine a world in which people are afraid to be around each other so they stay in isolation and don’t speak to their family members, friends, or neighbors unless their is a computer, microphone, phone or smart phone involved. That would be very depressing indeed.
So how am I staying positive during this time? I’m focusing my attention on things I love to do. I limit my corona cast viewing to once a day and do it at a time when I believe all the updates are done so I can get the latest info without having to be overloaded. I miss my choir family and singing with them is one thing I’ve been unable to do since March 12th. Sue our director has been sending out emails every Thursday night which is helping us to remain connected. Her emails are fun and upbeat and she always asks how we are all doing. Although I really long to see everyone in person I am satisfied with the way we are connecting for now. Going to church is another thing I enjoy. The last time I was there was March 8th. I knew it would be my last because despite the recommendations by officials our current minister still wanted everyone to greet one another with handshakes and hugs. I had no desire to do that but instead hoped I could just greet people verbally without touching. I have great concern about getting this virus since some people end up on respirators. Good luck getting the tube down my throat. When I had my thyroid removed they couldn’t tube me then and at that time I was under anesthesia. My surgeon said I gagged so bad they all thought I was going to choke myself even when the tube was removed. Apparently it took my body a few minutes to realize their was nothing being put down my throat anymore. I also know of an acquaintance who has the virus and she has to take steroids to help with breathing issues. Those would cause another problem because steroids can cause Glaucoma to become worse. So with this in mind I attempted to indicate I wanted a wide perimeter around me. Unfortunately one woman decided she really wanted a hug. After she took what she wanted from me I took out hand sanitizer and used it liberally on my hands. As she was walking away she began to hack uncontrollably. That’s the only way I can describe it. It was no cough. I thought she was going to lose a lung. It was at that point I knew I wouldn’t be attending services anymore until this whole thing is over. For the next few days I was worried that woman might have had the virus and that I’d get it. However I didn’t want to stop going to my regularly scheduled activities. As I did I was careful to put distance between those I interacted with. I also told them I didn’t want hugs.
Before the new normal set in I was able to celebrate 2 birthdays. On March 8th I took my Mom to dinner at a Diner we both like and on Friday the 13th I celebrated my friend Drew’s birthday with him. That’s the last time I had a hug from anyone. I wasn’t going to do it but since his health isn’t the best and we don’t know how many birthdays or holidays he has left I didn’t want to lose that moment. I’m glad I did because shortly afterward he ended up in the hospital with more mini-strokes. Thankfully he’s back home now but I realize that one of these times that won’t happen.
So what is there to be thankful for during these times? I have my health. I can connect with family and friends and still hear their voices. I have plenty of food to eat. I have hobbies I can entertain myself with. These include reading, playing computer games, watching my favorite shows and finding some new ones along the way just to name a few. I’m also making new connections through conference calls. Our minister has set up services via Zoom so now I am able to connect with my church family once again.
The new normal means we need to find new ways to challenge ourselves and I’ve come up with a few. First of all I intend to get better with my new windows 10 computer. In the past month I’ve been lazy preferring to relax and play on my old machine but now it’s time to tackle this project. I also intend to learn how to use Zoom and all its features via computer.
I know these are difficult times but here are some suggestions that I hope will help you get through. When you are feeling sad or worried connect with someone you are close to. Try not to watch too many corona casts. Ask family and friends who love to absorb every last detail to call you if something comes up that they think is important. Think of hobbies you love doing that don’t require others and spend time doing them.
We’re all in this together and it’s important for me to help where I can so if any of you need to find a connection during these unusual circumstances please don’t hesitate to email me at:
and we can have a conversation. In the meantime stay well, stay safe, and stay positive.
Tips and tidbits from the Food Lady
Grocery shopping during this pandemic.
It can be quite daunting to grocery shop as a blind person, let alone during this difficult time where we are to stay sheltered in place, socially isolate, and then finding that the items we want and need are not in stock. How can we do this.
This is what I have done recently and hope it might assist you.
I have been fortunate to have a sister that lives down the street that can do some of my grocery shopping once a week. I print out a list for her and give her my debit card, after I have sanitized it with alcohol prep pads. I am always amazed when she comes back and tells me that there wasn’t any toilet paper, no disinfectant wipes, no rubbing alcohol or bleach. Hmmm… well the cleaning products I can understand, but where has all the toilet paper gone. Who is stock piling TP?
I have mostly bought packaged items and canned and frozen food. Although the first shopping, at the start of this crisis, a lot of these items were out of stock too. Fortunately, I have been sort of a prepper with my past shopping trips. My pantry has nonperishable items and I has a rather large package of toilet paper I bought a while back that I really did not care for but am so glad we have it now. Oh, the other thing that was wiped out of the store was toothpaste. Interesting.
I have also tried to shop online to find the many delivery times were quite a wait. I have used the apps Instant Cart and Walmart. Both are great to use, but there still is a bit of a wait for some deliveries and then a lot of items are out of stock.
I was sent the following information on some services that might be available in your neck of the woods.
The below service is for anyone who doesn’t have a smart phone or an I-phone; can be used with a land line, which, at the service still does, as many elderly people still have those or other people may, for that matter. Below are the phone numbers. One must sign up to be a possible client/member.
> Gogo Groceries is now available. (implemented, March 16, 2020): It may not be
> available in all areas but it is worth a try. It will cost $13 for them
> to help you place your order and have it delivered to you. This fee also includes the tip for the driver.
The number to call is 855-222-4919.
Go Go Grandparent: 855-464-6872 and calls can be done 24/7.
This works to get Lift rides. Not sure if available during this crisis time or not.
Go Go gourmet: 855-754-5328
This is for takeout and not sure if available now or not.
I also have ordered some items from Amazon. I found out that I could add certain items to my subscribe and save order items that when bought alone with prime or regular, the shipping and delivery was out quite a few weeks. I am supposed to get my delivery on Monday the 13th, so it sounds like the TP and trash bags and other items will arrive then. Of course, I cannot get rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer anywhere. I had extra, but it will be gone in a week or so.
I have friends that have been able to order directly from their local stores. I know Albertson’s and Fred Meyers offer this near me. I have also heard that it is a good idea to call your local stores and even your pharmacies to see if they offer home delivery and how to do this. Of course, if you live in an apartment complex you may need to get clearance for these service from your office manager. If there is a will, there is a way. Sometimes it can take several attempts even with the iPhone apps I mentioned. It took four days to get the dog food I wanted from Pet Co through Instant Cart, but it was in stock and I am so glad to have two or more month’s supply of my guide dog’s food.
Using an iPhone, you have lots of ways to make a grocery list and send to a friend or family member that also has an iPhone. Through Apple Pay you can even transfer money straight to their bank account or their Apple wallet. I do not know exactly how to do this yet, but I know others do it this way. I use PayPal a lot for instant transfer of funds to another person. With the Instant Cart and Walmart apps, I have accounts with my address and credit card info already there to make check out a breeze.
I hope this helps some of you, and if any of you have any other suggestions, please email me and I will email them to the list.
Send to foodlady@theblindpost.com.
Perfect Jasmine rice in the Instant Pot
I love making Jasmine rice in my Instant Pot. It comes out perfect every time. I have the Bluetooth model that is paired with my iPhone through the Smart Cooker app. I think the Smart Wi-Fi Instant Pot model would be the same, but with its corresponding app.
Ingredients:
One cup Jasmine rice
One and one quarter cups water
Teaspoon or oil or slice of butter
One teaspoon of salt
You can add any other spices that you like.
Directions:
Measure out the one cup of rice into a mesh strainer. If you want two cups rice the ratio is the same for how many cups of rice you want. One and a quarter cups water to one cup rice.
Rinse your measured rice under water in the mesh strainer for a about two minutes or so or until the water runs clear.
Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot’s stainless-steel insert liner pot.
Add the cup and one quarter cup water to the pot, or for each cup of rice you are cooking.
Add salt and oil/butter and any other seasoning.
Stir the grain to mix all seasonings. Securely place the Instant Pot lid on and close the vent to sealing.
Pressure cook manually for 11 minutes on high and let it naturally release for about ten minutes until all steam has been released.
It comes out perfect for me every time, whether I am making one cup or two cups of Jasmine rice.
Driving Miss Donna
“The Drive”
(Episode 3)
by Lynn Anderson
Donna hadn’t been able to drive for a while, although her driver’s license wasn’t due to expire for several more months. She kept telling me that she could drive, she just had trouble seeing people in crosswalks or construction worker’s signs, but other than that, she felt things would be OK. Donna knew that she couldn’t drive safely anymore and she hadn’t been driving for close to a year. But anytime I took us out for a drive, which was often, we talked about what she could or couldn’t see out on the road, and our talk always ended up with Donna saying she believed that she could still drive if need be. I never disagreed with her. Sometimes I just needed to listen and let Donna talk through some of her issues with her sight. In the beginning of this journey with Donna’s eye condition, I always had a helpful word to say, like of course you can drive, or this is just a temporary problem, or people are out on the road driving who can see a lot less than you can! But over time, I realized that my helpful suggestions were anything but helpful. As Donna once told me during an emotional time, I really didn’t have a clue what I was talking about, because I couldn’t see through her eyes. Very true.
But I love to drive, and luckily Donna has always enjoyed being a passenger. Our driving day trips have been epic at times. One warm, beautiful Saturday morning, we decided to take a drive down to Pismo Beach, about a 3-hour drive south of Capitola where we live. We set out early for us, about 8am, and drove south on Highway 1 towards Watsonville. On our longer drives, we usually pull through the Jack in the Box drive thru for a breakfast sandwich, hash browns and orange juice, or what we call road food, then head out on the road. It was such a pretty drive that day, we were playing music CD’s and singing along, and just enjoying the miles passing by. At one point during our drive, Donna drifted off to sleep. I kept playing CD’s and was enjoying driving so much, that once we reached Pismo Beach, I just kept driving. I was curious, really about how far I could go before Donna would wake up. When she finally did open her eyes, she was not very pleased with me. Where are we, she asked. Oh, just out on the road, I vaguely answered, knowing full well where we were. She looked around some more, then with a shocked voice asked me if we were in Santa Barbara! Well, maybe, I admitted. We are in Santa Barbara! Are you nuts, it is nearly a 6-hour drive back home! Well, I said, more like 5 or so hours! Since it was almost 7pm, you can see why she was pretty upset with me! We stopped for dinner on the way back home, and I didn’t pull into the driveway until close to 2am the next day. Even though I’ve promised to never drive that far again on a day trip, Donna still doesn’t fall asleep on long drives to this day!
Donna is a seasoned Santa Cruz Metro Para Cruz rider, which helps her to get to church, the grocery store, the movies and anywhere else she needs to go. Since she is legally blind, she is also able to take a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) with her for free, which is a blessing, because we can ride the Para Cruz together. We’ve also taken some interesting Para Cruz rides together, but perhaps those stories are best left for another episode. Although the Para Cruz is a huge blessing, it basically takes you from point A to point B, with no stops in between. To make additional stops on your trip, you have to call the dispatcher a day in advance and make an appointment to set your route. No last-minute changes, no stops just because you see a donut shop along the way, and a strict time schedule. Well, it makes sense, I guess, otherwise you would have complete chaos.
Time passed, and things were going well for Donna and the Para Cruz, and then, well, things weren’t going so well. I tend to figure that if Donna appears to be happy, that she is actually happy, not totally realizing that she is putting on a happy face because she doesn’t want anyone to worry about her. Although she enjoyed and appreciated the Para Cruz, she was really just missing driving out on the road, stopping wherever she wanted to stop. Just hopping in the car at the last minute and driving out to the beach or the movies or the grocery store. She was sad that she had to call a day in advance to get a ride sorted out and last-minute trips were a thing of the past. She was deeply missing the freedom that driving affords. For some insane reason, I decided to encourage Donna by saying things to her that I thought would be encouraging, instead of just being quiet and listening. Sometimes I get it, and sometimes I don’t. As you may have guessed, it didn’t go well. She reminded me that she would never be able to drive again because of her vision problems, and that I didn’t have a clue what she was going through. Donna sighed deeply and walked out of the room.
So, I started thinking. I know, this is usually a bad thing to do, but I hate to see Donna so upset, so I called to her, how would you like to go to the movies? She said, I don’t feel like going out. Well, I have a great idea, I tried to say with a lot of enthusiasm! Then I waited. Donna finally came back into the room, hooked! OK, I give, what’s your great idea? Well, you still have your driver’s license, and you keep telling me you think you’d be OK driving, so why don’t you drive us? Donna was very quiet and she gave me the you must be out of your mind look. You know I can’t drive. Yes, you can, I insisted. You can drive us, and I’ll ride shotgun. Whenever I see a problem ahead in the road, I’ll let you know. We’ll use your driving ability and my eyes! I held my breath and I could almost see Donna’s mind processing my crazy idea. After a very long time she said, OK, let’s do it! I sat stunned, but just for a minute, then I sprung to my feet, grabbed the car keys and headed out the door. I didn’t want her to change her mind!
Donna drove us to the movie theater, which was only about a mile away, and we didn’t have any problems. Donna had a huge smile on her face, and I kept a careful eye out for any potential obstacles. We laughed a lot on the way, and just enjoyed the wonderful taste of freedom. I felt like I did when I was a teenager, out on the road, not really telling my parents everywhere I happened to be going that day. I don’t even remember the movie that we saw, but it felt so good to just be out in the world and see the truly happy look in Donna’s eyes. After the movie was over, neither one of us was ready to go home, so Donna drove us out to the yacht harbor where we parked for a time and just watched the boats bob up and down in the water. Later we stopped for a snack, then drove over to Capitola beach where we parked and enjoyed seeing the waves and the sand, and also seeing all the people out on the beach having a good time. Finally, Donna drove us home and safely parked the car.
That was the last time that Donna drove, but I have to believe that it was the most memorable. Donna voluntarily let her driver’s license expire with a lot of tears, but she said she knew that it was time. She said that too many people drive when they really shouldn’t and she wanted to set a good example. She did set that good example, but we still had the best time ever driving to the movie theater that beautiful day!
Blind people talking
A Face To Remember
By Meagan Green
It was late one summer afternoon, and shade had taken up most of my Grandparents’ backyard.
“Hey, want to go lay out in the sun for a little bit?” my Grandmother asked.
“Sure.” I replied, and we hastily prepared our blankets and towels and headed out.
Since there wasn’t much sun left, we put our heads in the shaded area, and let the cool breeze blow over our faces. I lay on my back for awhile, and looked up at the beautiful blue sky, and listened to the trees swaying back and forth like some rhythmic melody of nature. I could have enjoyed it more, except for the awful churning turmoil I felt inside.
I had been going through so much these past few years. There seemed to be no peace at all for me. Yet somehow I knew the Lord was working. He was bringing His soothing and healing presence to my mind. That day though, it seemed like the unrest would never end. I had snapped; into an angry, yet unspoken shouting match with God. The only thing was, He wasn’t shouting back.
I decided to turn over on my stomach. As I straightened up, pulling my long hair to one side, I drew in a quick breath when I saw a giant face looking right at me. It seemed to be a vision, so I asked God for understanding as I lay back down.
A minute or so later, the breeze blew my hair around, and I had to toss it aside again. That’s when I realized that it was on the side of the shed.
Tree limbs were casting their shadows, as the little remaining sun did the rest. At first glance, it had looked so ominous, so huge, but as I looked at it again, I saw the face of Jesus.
He had a beard, and mustache, and the outlinings of a beautiful loving smile. The nose wasn’t quite as distinct, but you could still see its shape. It was the two dark eyes that had first caught my breath away. Now they seemed to hold me steadfastly in their kind and soft gaze. As the trees swayed, His head would nod up and down slightly as if to say, “Yes, I love you.”
By this time, I was on my side, just staring at Him as He nodded and smiled. Once, it looked as if He bent low to whisper something to me. Then I heard in my spirit very sweetly, “I love you, I forgive you.” I felt a warmth in my heart as He looked at me through the shadow face. I didn’t want to look away. I just kept watching as the sun and shadows turned His face upward. Now I was seeing more of a profile of Him. His smile had widened, and His features had become more well-defined, and had taken on an even softer glow of beauty and grace. Now His face was turned toward the sky, and it looked as though His eyes were closed in prayer. I knew He was praying for me.
As the shadows continued to lengthen, I thought to myself how I hated to see Him go. Then the Lord said to me gently, “Though the face will go, I will never go.” I felt comforted.
I watched for a few more moments as His profile rose higher, and His praying became more earnest. Then, after my Grandmother had gone back into the house, He said to me, “I don’t want you to see the face go away.”
”Okay,” I said aloud, and after standing up, I turned my head to one side, and looked at the endearing face once more. I never would have seen Him had I been sitting up. He was still deep in prayer, His steady smile shining brightly with love. I said, “I love you,” and blew Him a kiss as I walked into the house, feeling thankful, and at peace
Miss Annie Lorena House’s House
By: Donna Kimball
A long time ago, in a little Texas town far, far away, a little girl named Donna, that’s me, strayed away from home up the hill above her Grandparent’s house.
I was supposed to be playing in the yard, but the spooky looking house at the top of the hill called me off on a new adventure. The house had almost no paint left and there were two very scary dead looking trees in the large yard. I was 6 years old at the time, and prone to wander. The rumor around town was that the old, weathered looking house was inhabited by two women who were witches. Unfortunately, for my parents, I had a wandering spirit and really liked checking things out for myself.
This talk of the two witches who lived up on the hill made it more intriguing for me to go knocking on the front door of that rather scary looking two storey house. On this particular summer Texas day, I could no longer resist the urge. As the front door slowly opened, I came face-to-face with an old fashioned looking middle-aged woman. I said, Hi, my name is Donna and I would like to come in for a visit. She gave me an astonished look which told me she was very intrigued by my presence on her front porch. I’m sure her thoughts were spinning as she pondered how to respond to my request. She told me that she would need to check with her aunt before she invited me in for a visit.
After what seemed like a very long time to me, she came back to the door and invited me in. After stepping inside the large, open foyer she instructed me that I would need to be a perfect little lady and sit quietly while visiting with she and her elderly aunt, Miss Clara. I found out many years later, that it was Miss Clara who had spread the rumor that she and her niece, Annie Lorena House, were witches to keep curious, little kids like me away from their door. Guess that didn’t work! Upon entering the large, spacious living room, I was invited to sit in a tall rocking chair. After answering several questions from the two ladies, Annie Lorena House inquired if my parents knew where I was? When I told her, no, they did not, she put her hand to her chin and gave a very knowing nod of understanding. She said, well, let me walk you back down to your grandparent’s house, so they will know where you are. After returning me home to my very surprised parents and grandparents, we all sat in the living room as she introduced herself. It was agreed after a lengthy conversation, that my parents said I could come back for more visits, but only with prior mutual agreement.
This first-time visit would be the beginning of a wonderful, lifetime friendship with Miss Annie Lorena House, or Anna Rena as I came to call her. Every year on my summer visits to this small Texas town where my grandparents lived, one of the first things on my agenda was to visit Anna Rena. She had told me after my first visit, that her aunt, Miss Clara, was quite impressed with my proper little lady demeanor, and had given permission for me to come back whenever I wanted. Anna Rena became a lifelong mentor and participant in many adventurous days.
I learned that Anna Rena in her younger years before becoming her aunt’s caregiver was a school teacher. She was a highly intelligent writer and poet and loved life’s adventures. Whenever I was going to visit my grandparents, I would write her a letter informing her when we would arrive and how long we would stay. On those visits she would always have an itinerary planned for what we would discuss and where we would go. When I was in my teenage years, it was not unusual for us to sit up half the night talking. On one of my visits, she had set up a musical bell orchestra using glass juice jars filled with different levels of water to make the various notes. We laughed as she conducted our special concert. On another visit, she showed me the storm cellar out in the back yard that was used for hiding away from tornadoes. In the summer time, we enjoyed the most delicious pears I had ever eaten from those same two craggy old trees that looked dead in the winter time. She still had the heart of a teacher and usually would greet me with several stacks of books, which always included her Bible, already bookmarked with things she wanted to share. Anna Rena was a Christian who loved her Lord Jesus very much. This was the main reason my parents and grandparents were comfortable with my visits.
As the years went by, Miss Clara passed, the weathered, old house fell into disrepair and Anna Rena was forced to sell the property. She then moved in with another woman to be her caretaker. That summer, I was so excited to stay with Anna Rena in the very elaborate, beautiful bedroom she had in the only mansion in this small town. It was two stories with a cupola, a porch that wrapped around two sides, and a ballroom. When Miss Edna, the owner of the house finally gave me permission to go to the upstairs, I was delighted! No one had lived in the upstairs portion for over 30 years. There were elaborate chandeliers, straw mats on all the floors and the first claw foot bathtub I had ever seen. With my far-out adventurous imagination, I really enjoyed my alone times in the upstairs of that beautiful home.
Over the next years, Anna Rena moved from place-to-place as different jobs opened for her, so it was always a new adventure when I had a chance to visit her for another summer. I never could have dreamed the blessing of such a wonderful friendship that would begin when this way too frequently disobedient child pushed through her fears and knocked on the door of that scary looking old house up the hill and met a dear friend, Miss Annie Lorena House.
From the pages of Donna’s travel diary
Let us try the virtual way
We are presently battling a very determined and unseen enemy in the name of Corona Virus. This enemy has inflicted so much hardship, suffering, sadness, and countless other problems on our world and I believe that one way for us to use a very lethal weapon is for us to stay positive and fight back with courage, fortitude, positive ness, but above all with smiles on our faces.
As Winston Churchill once said: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”
This is an opportunity to put a dent into Corona Virus’s iron grip!
I’d like to try out this idea on readers; this being traveling via the virtual way. If we are unable to physically travel, then why can’t we do it the virtual way?
So with this in mind, I am going to use my personal experiences to take you to some of the most exciting and welcoming cities around the world.
So without much ado, settle into your seats! Fasten your seatbelts, and time to travel!
First stop is London England! O yes! A city filled with tons of history, bustling tube stations, but there is much more to this city than this! Theatre goes have a chance to enjoy some of the latest and greatest plays! Tourists can visit the London tower, linger on in the War Museum, and take time to visit and have a tour of Buckingham Palace. Before leaving London, we’ll take a boat ride down the Thames.
Next we’ll hop across to Europe and touch down in Paris! Ah yes! Gaie Paris! The city of lights and romance! Where lilting music can be heard on every street corner! Cafes are packed with persons of all ages enjoying sweet pastries and delicious cups of bubbling tea or steaming coffee. Or you may see couples walking hand in hand along the banks of the River Seine. Before leaving Paris we’ll stop at a nice little restaurant to sample some Parisian cuisine along with a bottle of one of France’s finest wines. Then with one last backward glance at the Eiffel Tower, we’ll be on our way once more.
Now it’s time for our jet to make its way to Rome! Ah yes! Rome! A city steeped in history and beauty! We’ll pay our respects to the Vatican, throw some coins into the fountain of Trevi for good luck, then we’ll mingle with the crowds and allow ourselves to be gently lead to the shopping areas and entertainment district. We will linger for a bit, do some shopping and then it will be time to board our jet and be on our way. We’ll visit the leaning tower of Pizza before leaving.
We are not very sure where next our captain is going to take us and we have left it up to him! Lo and behold! He has brought us to Amsterdam because he would like us to enjoy the festival of tulips and we are not disappointed! Miles and miles of tulips of all colours welcome us! We walk among them! We inhale their fragrance! We buy some but several vendors give us bunches for free!
Amsterdam does not disappoint in any way and before leaving we take time to visit the famous house of Anne Frank!
Our virtual whirl wind tour has started to come to an end and now it is time to touch down in Montreal! One of the very few cities in North America where you can live like an European, dress like a European, and enjoy yummy European cuisine. We go shopping and purchase bags and bags of fashionable and stylish clothes. We take a buggy ride around old Montreal and we attend a very noisy hockey game!
Now it is time for us to make our final stop and low and behold! It’s New York! Wow! So much to see and do and not sure where to start! So we begin at Central Park with a buggy ride around the parameter. Next we wonder over to Time Square, visit the theatre district, Take a boat ride to see the Statue of Liberty and then? It’s time for us to go home! We have just enough time to grab a New York steak and a beer!
I hope you enjoyed my virtual travel!
I’m Donna J. Jodhan enjoying my travels.
To learn more about me, visit
On your next trip you could enrich your down time with some of my audio mysteries. Take them with you wherever you go!
In the car, on the plane, on the bus or train, at the beach, anywhere!
Affordable, portable, (computer or i device) and you could either purchase or Subscribe for unlimited access to my library at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html
and you can now take advantage of our free downloads here.
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Yarn, hook and needle
Crafts by Phyllis Campbell
APRIL SHOWERS
Truly it seems that this April is filled with showers, but not the kind we usually welcome. This April rather than filled with the beauty of new blossoms, we find ourselves surrounded with showers of tears, as we face what is probably the greatest crisis our nation has faced. True we have faced the enemies of inflation, and wars. Unlike these tangible enemies, this virus can’t be seen, and by its very nature, we are often denied the touch of those who would bring comfort.
We are bombarded with “do this” only to be told the next day to do something entirely different. This will pass, but it can be frustrating, especially for those who live alone, and may have health problems.
I can only speak from experience. Read. Thank goodness there’s BARD and Bookshare, since many regional libraries for the blind are closed. I have accumulated quite a good library from these resources, as well as digital books from Amazon. If you haven’t done this, now is a good time to start.
Listen to music. Get out those treasured albums or play lists, and find comfort in familiarity.
pull out some of those knit or crochet projects. This is a wonderful time to go through that stash. Let your creativity range freely, just what can you do with that skein of yarn. Go back over past columns for things you’ve been thinking about doing.
Below are several spring patterns, made with very little yarn.
California Poppy
Materials: 3.5mm (US size E) crochet hook
Scissors, Yarn: DK yarn in orange (approx. 4 g) and yellow (1g)
Make a slipknot with the yellow yarn and ch 2.
R1- 6 dc into second ch from hook. (6 sts)
Change to orange yarn
R2- 2 dc into each st. (12 sts)
R3- 1 dc into each st. (12 sts)
R4- using front loops only:
[1 dc & 1 htr in next st, 3 tr in next, 1 htr & 1 dc in next] x 4, sl st to first
dc.
Cut yarn.
R5- attach yarn to any back loop of previous round.
[2 dc, 2 dc in next st] x 4, sl st to beginning of round. (16 sts)
R6- 3 ch (makes first tr), 1 tr & 1 dtr in same space as ch, 3 dtr in next st,
3 dtr in next, 1 dtr & 2 tr in next,
[2 tr & 1 dtr in next st, 3 dtr in next, 3 dtr in next, 1 dtr & 2 tr in next] x 3,
sl st to top of 3 ch.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Rabbit Dishcloth
Designed by Emily Jagos
Measurements: 9 inches x 9 inches
Materials:
100% Cotton Yarn, Worsted Weight, 2.5 oz
Size US 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles
Instructions:
Cast on 37 stitches.
Note: Border stitches are in parentheses () at beginning and end of each row should you prefer to substitute a different border.
Row 1: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 2: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 3: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 4: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 5: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 6: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 7: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 8: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 9: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 10: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 11: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 12: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 13: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 14: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K5, P11, K5, P2, K6, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 15: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 16: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K6, P6, K7, P3, K7, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 17: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 18: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K4, P11, K2, P3, K9, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 19: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 20: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K3, P19, K7, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 21: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 22: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K4, P19, K6, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 23: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 24: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K6, P17, K6, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 25: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 26: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K6, P20, K3, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 27: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 28: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K7, P19, K3, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 29: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 30: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K8, P18, K3, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 31: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 32: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K19, P6, K4, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 33: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 34: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K20, P3, K6, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 35: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 36: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K18, P4, K7, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 37: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 38: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K18, P3, K8, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 39: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 40: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K18, P2, K9, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 41: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 42: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K18, P1, K10, (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 43: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 44: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 45: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 46: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 47: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 48: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 49: (K1, P1, K1, P1), P to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 50: (K1, P1, K1, P1), K to last 4 sts., (P1, K1, P1, K1)
Row 51: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 52: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 53: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 54: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Row 55: K1, P1 across, ending with K1
Bind off all stitches in pattern.
May we find peace in the beauty around us, and may we all rejoice in the eternal spring.
Peace and love,
Phyllis
Greg’s No Sew Face Mask
By Greg Capps
1. The CDC is now advising all Americans to wear a cloth face mask whenever outside your home. You can make your own quite inexpensively. The recommendations I am seeing online say that you should use a cotton fabric that when held with two thicknesses of the fabric held together, you cannot see through it. The suggestion was given of an old pillow case (not worn threadbare). My mask exceeds this standard. Furthermore, it is cheap to have several so that you can use a different one for every day and just throw them in the laundry with all of your other clothing.
2. Take a standard bandanna (approximately 20 inches square) and lay it on a table so that a corner is at the top, bottom, left, and right.
3. Bring together the top and bottom points so that you have a triangle and smooth it out. You now have a point at left, right, and at the bottom.
4. Take the bottom point and fold it up until about an inch is above the top fold. Smooth out the fabric.
5. Turn the little triangle that extended over the top fold down behind and turn the entire mask over so that you have better access to that little triangle.
6. With a safety pin, pin the small triangle to the middle section of the bandanna so that it doesn’t show all the way through on the front but holds the little triangle point in place. This is all that is needed to keep your face mask from falling apart! Because you folded the bandanna in half initially, and then folded the bottom up, your breathing area now actually has 4 layers of soft cotton fabric.
7. Turn your face mask so that the safety pin is toward you and at the bottom. Take the two ends (left and right points) and tie them in a simple knot at the back of your neck.
8. Wear your new bandanna face mask with confidence that it looks good, is neat, quick and simple to make, and will protect you from any droplets. If your bandanna happens to be new and stiff from the factory, put it through the laundry a couple times and it will become very soft and comfortable to your skin. And, don’t forget to continue your social distancing.
Stay well and be safe.
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This is the end of the April special edition of the Blind Post classified news.
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Lori Motis
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