Because of the Glass Fire, which started less than a week ago, the Air Quality Index for Santa Rosa and Petaluma was in the high 200s by the end of the day today. This is right now:
150 or above is a number that can cause health effects to everyone, not just those with pre-existing conditions, after 24 hours. Library branches have ceased curbside service here and there while the numbers remained high. The evacuations didn't reach downtown Santa Rosa, but they were close. Napa and Calistoga, St. Helena, and parts north and east of there are getting the worst of it. Nor is this the first fire of the season, but this one hit me harder than previous ones in terms of anxiety. Perhaps it's the combination of COVID, the state of US politics, and the post-traumatic trigger of smoke in the air, NIXLE alerts, and sirens. Could be. 2020, you just keep comin'.
On Sunday and Monday, I addressed the problem of high anxiety by organizing belongings; almost all of the previously unlabeled boxes in closets are labeled now. I know which ones have the tin-type family photos from the 1800s, which ones have my elementary school drawings, programs from the kids' performances - the whole range of what to take, what to leave is at least a little more understandable now. I've also packed something of a go-bag, and have prepped a few things so that we won't have to grab them. Water and animal food and tp already in the car. It's not only practical to do these things; it also helps me feel much less panicky. And in the process, I am able to get rid of more childhood clutter that doesn't serve me or anyone, and no only doesn't spark joy, but in some cases sparks regret and bitterness. Goodbye to that nonsense!
And it is October, my favorite month for many reasons and one in which I either write more, or at least tell myself I write more, which becomes a bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy. A good time to continue the cleanup, re-set, focus, and prepare for what almost certainly will be an extremely challenging few months. There is little doubt now that forty-five won't be leaving office willingly, regardless of the outcome of the election. It makes me want to do something to prepare, but I don't know what. Stock up the pantry? Move to Canada?
Perhaps moving backups from 16 years ago from CD to three computer hard drives will help. Somehow.
