no subject

[lotesse]

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.

Comments

[starlady]

For future reference in your own place, I believe filling the tub and leaving it to sit is actually better than just running the shower -- something about the water will attract the particles and then you can drain and refill it.

This kind of thing is just awful. Glad to hear you're at your sister's for now.