And for the first time in a couple of years I spent the afternoon at PJ's--not draped over the super-comfy chair I usually read from, but at a table where I could rough out my syllabus and a bunch of other stuff! Next time I must remember to take my computer with me--I didn't get the laptop till right after Katrina, so that's not an old habit needing revival, but a new one to establish.

As I went over my files (the only inanimate thing that went with me when I left the house the afternoon of 8/28/05) I realized that I needed to re-copy a bunch of things I'd had on reserve at the library. The library got about five or six feet of water on the first floor after the levees broke, and that's where the reserves were kept. More to the point--it's also where there were LOTS of computers, and even more basic reference books.

So tomorrow I need to start copying things again. (I am so glad I have a printer/copier/scanner.) I'll also print out some of the things--like the syllabus--that I worked on today. The secretary is used to me doing that--really a necessity if I want stuff for my 8 AM class(es). Every once in a while I take a home a ream of paper, and I get an ink cartridge from the department about every other time.

When I finished at PJ's I decided to do my grocery shopping before I went home. (I also filled up the gas tank.) I got an electric cart, but after about five minutes it wouldn't go more than about a foot at a time. One lovely young woman offered to get me another. I accepted gratefully, and told her that if there weren't any available a regular cart would work. She returned with a regular cart, I thanked her effusively, and then limited my shopping to absolute necessities. The worst part about a regular cart is waiting in line--that tires out the back.

I had an interesting e-mail today. It was titled "Is it time for a bath for Fabian?" The sender was PetMeds. I don't think so. I've never tried bathing Fabian, and I don't plan to start. In addition to being over 20 lbs., he is quite strong. And if his teeth are anything like his late brother's, I'd probably end up in the hospital again. No, it's NOT time for a bath for Fabian.


And, in closing I'll pass on the following, which was in Netter's blog.

The War Department briefed the President this morning. They informed Bush that two Brazilian soldiers were killed in Iraq. To everyone's amazement, all the color drained from Bush's face, then he collapsed onto his desk, head in his hands, visibly shaken, and almost in tears. Finally he composed himself and asked, "Just exactly how many is a Brazilian?"