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January 5, 2024
Silicon Valley, California


All our bags are packed

Before we moved up to the mountains, we lived in Silicon Valley, California. So before we leave the country for four months, we decided to return to Silicon Valley for a few days. Unfortunately, our old house is currently rented out. Fortunately, Russell’s sister Joanne and brother-in-law Matt are willing to host us at their house.

The goal is to spend three nights here before flying to Southern California on January 6. During the three days, the goal is to run errands, share meals with friends and family, and spend some time with Joanne.

Well, as they say, “The best laid plans…”

On January 4 Gail had a lunch date at a restaurant. We had a dinner date with Russell’s aunt. Later that evening, Gail got a phone call – her lunch date had tested positive for COVID.

We had to move out of Joanne’s house and get a hotel room. (ka-ching) We had to cancel Friday dinner with our two sons. We had to contact everyone we had been near that afternoon to let them know of the exposure.

Our plan was to spend three nights in Southern California with one of our dearest friends. For at least the first two nights, we will need to stay at a hotel instead. (ka-ching)

So now we are wearing masks, and we are due to get on an airplane tomorrow morning. Gail will test herself daily for the three-day incubation period. Wish us luck!


Up until the last minute, Gail was still trying to fit all of her clothes, supplies and wool into three maximum-sized suitcases… without any of them exceeding 50 lbs


In the end, she gave up and added an additional cardboard box (note face mask)

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