no subject

My first time experiencing generalized wildfire smoke. Chicago's gone purple on the air quality map today. It's really a lot, emotionally/psychologically. So much of how I know how to live is about fresh air and open windows, going outside when stress rears up, spending lots of time out-of-doors. It's really not that different from hunkering down during a cold snap or blizzard, but it feels different. The air is bad. It's a lot.

I don't have a lot of climate controls at my apartment; I tend to rely on natural air conditioning here by the Big Lake. Windows closed, fans on, shower running sometimes on the theory that it might clear away particles; I don't pay for hot water here, and it's pretty darn unlimited in this old boiler building. Not sure about heating food this afternoon, as I only have the gas oven/stovetop. Might be better to eat cold things for a bit.

At least this time it won't be long; conditions are supposed to improve overnight. I'm catsitting for my sister this week; thinking I might wait until later to make the 1.2 mile walk. The beasts have plenty of food and water, I'm mostly just hanging out with them. I can stay extra long tomorrow and we can all chill on the patio together, provided the air is in fact better.

eta: my cat and I are at my sister's, where there's AC and air purifiers. I'm managing cat interactions and trying not to feel too jerked around by it all.