Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Corona Life Snapshots

I am not sure how long we have been under the "stay at home" order, but it has changed our lives significantly. In all honesty, I am thankful to have this slower paced life, full of rich, meaningful time with my family. It is unclear how, or when, we will "re-enter" normalcy so until then, I will take the time to chronicle our Corona Life via occasional snapshots. A sort of a "not so perfect" photo journal through our time sheltering at home.

Toys. We took this bike to the dump this past weekend. We saw no one, except the employees who instructed us through a closed window. This bike has a story like most of our possessions. It starts about 16.5 years ago when our oldest turned 1. It used to have a taller handle that I held onto while I pushed her down the road. She was "riding!" Then the second child used it, then the third. The handle broke, the tires started to skid on the pavement. The older children started pushing the younger children on it. The fourth child used it, then the fifth. The youngest outgrew it over a year ago, but I found it hard to part with it. I even considered saving it for any grandchildren that might come in the far off future. In the end, I knew it was time. It was old and broken in many ways. Still so loved and appreciated. It felt right this past weekend to say goodbye. I couldn't say goodbye without taking a picture. The years of memories from one toy. It was a good one.


Goat milk. My husband and one dear daughter have an allergy to the protein in milk. We have always had easy access to goat milk, but Corona has taken out the goat milk. For the past few weeks anyway. The shelves have been empty. My daughter has tolerated almond milk, vocal in her distaste. But, in her words, "I have to do it Mom, there is no goat milk. And that is okay." Until Saturday when my husband went to the grocery store and found the precious milk. Helping unload groceries, she squeals with delight, "YOU GOT GOAT MILK!!!!" And before I knew it, I had my tall but very petite 10 year old jumping into my arms, squeezing me with her arms and legs, squeaking with delight. I embraced this outburst of joy. I felt a small pang of guilt because I did not go into the grocery store (one family member at a time). I confessed that it was Daddy who found the milk. With matched gusto, she ran and bounced into his arms shouting, "Thank you Daddy, Thank you, Thank you!" No need to promise a trip to Disney World in this house....we just need to buy goat milk.


Seedlings. It has been at least five years since I have started seeds inside. I did this every year with the older three when they were little. They became teens and life sped up. We have been moving so quickly that sometimes it is hard to keep up. This time of slowing down is a perfect time for seeds. Mostly flowers because those make me happy, but some vegetables too. These two are perfect gardening partners.


Books on CD. Need I say more.


Outside togetherness. We have always made outside time together a priority, but it still feels oh so nice during Corona time.


Masks. Sewing is not a gift of mine, but when people need masks for protection, we all step up and help.


What are some simple ways you are finding beauty and hope during this crazy time? Share some of your Corona Life Snapshots.