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Another time in Venice
Greetings from northern Italy, 40 minutes by train from Venice.  I want to write  a short update and include information that some of my readers have sent. 
Old castle ruins in Croatia
No entrance fee, just sitting on a hillside
This is the start of our 5th week in lock down.  Lock down means different things throughout  the world, here it means you cannot drive out of your town.  You cannot go out and walk in your neighborhood.  Only dog walkers can venture out.   If you need medicine or food you must download a form, fill it out to describe your reason for leaving your home, etc.  Italy is being very strict on this, giving fines to people who think they do not need to abide by the law.  Italians are behaving and observing this rule in a good way.
Colorful houses on Burano Island
Two days ago we got lucky and found an open spot on a program to deliver groceries.  This online program had been full up to the end of April, so we are counting our lucky stars.  Tomorrow they will deliver!  We were not out of food, but now we won't have to go out and risk getting in contact with the virus for a few more weeks. 
Church in Riga, Latvia
My readers and friends have sent news of how they are coping.  In the United States we are shocked that many are not thinking the virus is serious enough to observe social distancing.  The result of this is beginning to reveal its negative effects.  I am relieved to know that my friends and relatives in America are all staying inside and are stocked up with food to last some weeks.   Bravo, tutti!
 
In a few days it seems that the  United States will have twice the number of victims that Italy. 

My contacts in Turkey have written that the government is now finally encouraging people to stay inside.  They are prepared for a long in home stay.  In Slovenia there are fewer victims of the virus, and they have had more time to ready their hospitals.  Moscow has now closed the city down, yet the government is not displaying statistics on the virus, nor much information or encouragement to stay home and practice social distance.  Mexico is now starting to have people with the virus.  It is world wide now.  Who knows how this will end.  It is also  sad to see how government leaders play politics on fighting the virus, etc.

We are in a battle to save lives.   This is war and even though things seem bad, we will overcome this.  People are strong, and have a will to survive and protect their families.   Let's encourage each other.
The library at Ephesus a city
mentioned in the bible
If there is a good thing about this time it might be that people will pick up a  book, paint, play music,  interact with their family, do video chats, visit an online museum, and learn to slow down and enjoy life.  Let's all say something nice to others and support the ones around us.  We all need to hear positive things at this time. 
I am including some fotos of incredible places we have seen in the past few years.   We do live in an amazing world.

My favorite Pizza Guy
Wood fired pizza oven




I am sorry that some of you cannot leave a message here, this is because you must be logged on through google to leave message.  For instance, if you came from facebook, you cannot message. 

Stay safe and help others.  Until next time, Ciao!


Comments

Beth M. said…
I am so happy to see your blog posts because they let me know that you and Orietta are safe, David! This virus is so bad and you are correct when you say that many in America do not realize the severity of the virus. Here in my small town in Western North Carolina our county reported it's first two confirmed COVID 19 cases on yesterday. Now the county is in panic mode. Long lines at the stores (which have too many people inside not practicing social distancing). I will have to get out for my medicines and some groceries on Thursday and I am not looking forward to the trip at all! I am almost dreading seeing the casual attitudes as much as the bare grocery shelves. When I return home the countdown will begin again. Wash, rinse, repeat. I wish you and your lovely Orietta health, happiness, love, and much creativity during this extremely large trial of life! Be well!!! Beth :D
March 31, 2020 at 5:08 PM
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