There will be little time today for James Bond movies let alone writing this daily blog. I did watch Thunderball (#4 1965), You Only Live Twice (#5 1967), You Only Live Twice (#5 1967), Live and Let Die (#8 1987), and Golden Gun (#9 1974) yesterday. I’ve already, of course, checked the run off my to do list, maintaining The Streak of now 4,363 consecutive days. The getting ready routine is no different than any other day, showering and stepping-into my retirement uniform. Then, it’s off to the eye doctor for a glasses adjustment, a blood test for an upcoming urologist appointment, the Social Security Administration office, Safeway to pick up a prescription, and back to the apartment to fix dinner. Of all these stops, Social Security will undoubtedly be the biggest hassle.

These are all things that years ago would have been squeezed into the normal work routine without a second thought. Now, they are the only things I have to do, and consequently seem more daunting. It’s hard to leave the bubble that protects my boring daily life, especially since extensive travel is out of the equation. The thought of getting my car off the hydraulic lift, driving it to a destination, parking, and actually dealing with other people is challenging anymore. I would just assume sit here every day writing and watching television, as is sadly the case. A couple of short dog walks and getting the mail are often the only activities that take me away from my desk once the 3.1 mile run is complete. 

I have to fast for my test this morning and get all the paperwork ready for the dreaded SSA. I’ll have to strip for the metal detectors, get a number, sit for who knows how long, and then once I get to the window will probably not have everything I need. I waited until after the deadline for Medicare ended yesterday and avoided Mondays, hoping this might save some time. I tried to submit the paperwork electronically but naturally it wouldn’t accept my scanned documents that apparently weren’t in the right format. We’ll see what kind of adventure I’m in for this afternoon. The office may be too packed or even closed in these pandemic times of delays, disruption, and disorder. 

It actually feels good to be busy, but I’m sure I’ll be exhausted and frustrated by the end of the day. It will reminiscent of a typical day at the office that is now just a faint memory. Tomorrow, should be back to normal, if I don’t have to repeat any of these dreaded assignments. Look out, Portland – I’m stepping outside today in my mask to fight the traffic, construction, lines, and other obstructions that might stand in my way. There are too many potential hassles on my to do list to expect a care-free journey.