Looking Forward To The New Normal Again ……….

We're all practicing social distancing and self-isolation now. Actually, I don't mind doing either of these. At my age, I'm not a big fan of people. That being said, I had things I still had to do.

Wednesday March 18th, it was rainy and raw as I drove up Amboy Avenue for my Radiation Treatment. On the way, I was struck by 2 things.

The streets were completely deserted but there was this 1 bike rider. I figured he was an "essential" worker on his way to his job. I saluted him as I passed.

Monday March 23rd was a warm, sunny day. I was in the Treatment parking lot when I saw this guy.

He's walking around in a short-sleeved shirt while I was sitting in my car with the heat on. If he wasn't so far away I might've done something. I shrugged him off and went inside.

Tuesday March 24th, on my way home, I came across a new Quick Check on Avenel and Routes 1 and 9.

I drove around the block and went in. I bought a Philly Cheese Steak with caramelized onions. Pretty good.

For the next week or so, The weather was pretty decent with a lot of sun and an occasional walker.
Thursday April 2nd, I took a different way home and wound up at the Food Market on Inman avenue.

Not too crowded and I was in and out quickly. I wasn't looking for anything in particular but I did get some stuff at the Deli Counter. Plus, they had Toilet Paper!

Then things started to go downhill.

I check my bank account every morning and on Wednesday the 8th there was a fraudulent charge. I went to the bank after my treatment but they only do business through the drive-through and that wouldn't open until 9:30. I drove around for a while and went back at 9. I wasn't the only one who was early.

I had no choice. It took me about 2 1/2 hours but they agreed to reverse the charge and block that vendor. I got the money back 2 days later.

Thursday April 9th, my Radiologist gave me a mask to wear.

I really appreciated it considering my last day would be Friday April 10th.

I was just getting used to a quiet existence when there was more fraud on my account this time for over $1900. I drove back to the bank on Thursday April 16th.

I found out that these weren't misuse of my Debit Card. Someone had my checking account and bank routing numbers and were passing direct debits. I had the account closed and replaced. I have a new Debit Card but only 3 temp checks although they said they'd place an order for me.

I spent the rest of the day changing my account number with Social Security (a real hassle) and updating several preauthorized deductions. I received the refunded charge on Friday April 17th but I can't move it over for at least 30 days.

Today is Saturday the 18th. I spent several hours straightening out my checking account(s) and figuring out how to pay a few bills online.

That was another hassle but it's done. I have 1 more bill to pay. It's for a doctor but they don't have a site. I'll have to call on Monday.

After all this, I'm looking forward to the New Normal again.