I NEED Escapism

As it turns out, I’m more nervous than anticipated about my upcoming bean surgery. From what the docs say, this is expected to be, practically, a drive-by or drive-through event. I MAY even go home the day after.

Still, after all I’ve been through (medically speaking) in the last four and a half years, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed. This means that I’m not getting in as much rehab exercising as I should. Being in top (for me) shape pre-op means my post-surgery recovery time will be shorter, less onerous.

What do I need to get through this swamp of demoralization? Distracting entertainment, that’s what!

I’m between new books and authors right now (so many promising escapist reads are on my waiting list at the library) so I decided to reread some Vonnegut. I’m very much enjoying his style, absurdities and wit, of course. At the same time though, the river of melancholy that runs through Breakfast of Champions, is proving too much for me. I find myself living within the characters and, just wow. When Kilgore Trout is the most clearheaded, sane and happy soul in the book, it may well be past time to find a different flight of fancy.

Jen and I began rewatching Northern Exposure yesterday. You remember the show, right? It ran from 1990 -’95. It’s a classic fish out of water tale. Big city (NYC) born, raised and educated doctor ends up working in a small Alaskan village to pay off the loan the state gave him. Heartwarming, culture clashing hilarity ensues.

I only mention it but ALL the characters look MUCH younger than when I first saw it. I mean, of fucking course they do. I was in my early 30s when it came out and that was 34 goddamn years ago! Dr. Fleischman looks like a kid (when the show began, Morrow—the actor playing him—would have been in his late 20s). Darren E. Burrows’ character, Ed Chigliak the wonderful, teenaged Indian, was actually in his mid-20s. John Cullum, the old guy bartender, was younger (and more fit) than I am now.

The other show we’re watching is Dead Boy Detectives. So far, it fits the escapism bill.

Two teen ghosts work alongside a clairvoyant to solve mysteries for their supernatural clientele — until a powerful witch complicates their plans. (source)

How else am I ducking reality (besides continuing to avoid my tax prep work)?

On Threads I’m now following the ghost.of.kristi.noems.goat, the.bear.in.the.woods, the.friendly.crow, a raccoon, the worm in RFK Jr.’s brain, deer, fox, wolf, an opossum and orcas.sinking.yachts.

The orcas introduction line?

We're a pod of orcas hoping to rid the ocean of the human billionaire scourge. We also enjoy memes. Tag us when someone needs to get capsized.

The bear’s?

Your friendly neighborhood bear. I only maul misogynistic men.

Goat ghost?

Malcontent spirit of a goat seeking justice from beyond the Veil of Death. Haunting fascists & anyone who dare to abuse animals or the vulnerable.

Deer?

I’m here to eat your birdseed and raise a little hell. And you forgot to put out birdseed.

The raccoon says they’re just looking for some good snacks as they smash the patriarchy. Also, they love Taylor Swift and marshmallows and dislike people filled with hate.

Okay then, this totally counts as escapism!