Randy Ellingboe
Social media/website: IG: @RandyEllingboe
Current city, state, country: Woodbury, MN, USA
My profession: Retired
This pandemic makes me feel like: We have been riding along for years hoping that something like this wouldn't happen. While we are all facing this, the most vulnerable and those on the edge economically are most at risk. We need to provide sick leave and healthcare at a reasonable cost to all our people -- it will benefit everyone.
This pandemic makes me think: That we have little safety net for so many in this country, particularly those that provide our food and our care for the young, the old, and the infirm. But we also have many caring people who show their empathy during these times of trouble, reaching out from a distance to stay in touch with family and friends. Our electronic tools, so often a distraction otherwise, have become an important link in these times of isolation.
This pandemic makes me hope/pray for: People to advocate for a long-term solution to sick leave and healthcare for all, and our businesses and government to find a way to make it feasible.
If I had three wishes: 1. That as few people as possible become ill from this virus and that our family and friends stay well. 2. That we learn something of lasting importance from this pandemic that we use to make our world a better place. 3. That our leaders figure out reasonable cost healthcare for all -- which will be good for us all.
What I think of the federal government’s response: Our state government in MN has been excellent. The federal response has been bumbling as the White House tried to downplay the risks.
Before this pandemic, my plans for the next 6 months were: Travel to visit family on the West Coast, and enjoy the outdoors in spring and summer.
Predictions for when this will get better/end: June 2020.
What I have in my fridge/freezer and pantry: The ingredients for Italian food, and good wine.
Ways I’m coping: Making maple syrup from our trees and working on our place.
Creative things to do with kids: Go outside. Walk or bike. Play games, inside or outside. Talk.
General advice/thoughts/anxieties to share with others: Reach out to as many people in as many ways as you can. Don't panic, this will pass, although we may have a different view of how important it is to care for each other when this is done.