I woke up in an optimistic mood this morning, a scary notion for a cautionary pessimist like me. The stiffness in my back and hip were minimal, and I felt a resultant rush of enthusiasm. The post-time-change darkness presented the impression of an early start as I breezed through my 3.1 miles. There was no hacking or congestion for once when I finished the course. I was starting to feel like myself again, but then a news flash on the radio indicated that trading had temporarily stopped on the Stock Exchange, a safe-guard for falling prices. Was it going to be another Black Monday, fueled by the threats of Corona Virus? Would you like some Lyme Disease with that? So much for optimism!

I sat on my ice pack, as has become a morning tradition this past week. However, I did it out of habit rather than needing it for pain. I then turned on Outlander to escape from reality into the world of time travel. The only time travel I’ve done lately is moving that hour forward. I’ll go back again in the Fall. I’m also looking forward to a matinee this afternoon and travel to Phoenix in a few days. Sadly, a few of our friends have changed their plans as a result of the flu epidemic. I’m hoping that this crud I’m just getting over has built up my tolerance for this terrible outbreak. I just can’t sit home in this apartment and watch my life pass by. I’ll take a chance – perhaps another touch of optimism. As Mad Magazine’s Alfred E. Neuman might say in a situation like this, “What Me Worry?” (See Post #514).

Are there other things to worry about? Beware of the Ides of March, Friday the 13th, and tonight’s Super Moon for starters. These are some of the  superstitious elements coming together over the next week. I’m fortunate to be retired in these troubled times and can hide from reality. I’m no longer in a position where I have much control over my future. At least, I’ve already enjoyed three full years of retirement and have paid for most of this year’s travel. There’s also the upcoming Arizona sunshine to brighten my attitude. Fist and Elbow bumps for everyone! You see, I’m trying hard to be optimistic!