So I take a look at this blog and realize my last entry was March 18.
To say much has changed since then would be a colossal understatement. As is happening with so many other states, Kansas residents are under a stay-at-home order although as of this writing the governor might relax this a bit in the next few days. I'm staying tuned.
Minnesota is under an even more restrictive order and as such Geoana is now back with us, doing her classes online. Whether her institution will resume classes in the brick and mortar setting by fall is yet to be decided. However as a family we decided if the fall classes are online then Geoana is out of there. She's in full agreement that paying tuition and the other fees for the privilege of attending one of the top private institutions in the area isn't the best use of money if all she's doing is....online courses.
Stay tuned.
I have my thoughts and opinions about this whole COVID-19 lockdown situation but I'll keep those out of this blog not only because I like my privacy but also believe I have nothing original to contribute to the nation-and-worldwide discussion/debate. What I will do is two things. First, what are the things for which I can be thankful? And second, what can I list that in the future I hope to not take for granted?
Giving thanks:
My household is healthy, no symptoms of coronavirus or anything else outside of seasonal allergies.
We still have a roof over our heads along with amenities such as running water (that is potable), electricity and an Internet connection.
The weather is warming up which means the ability to be outdoors, and that is a great remedy for cabin fever.
Even though the library is closed until further notice we can still borrow certain titles through the online lending service, downloaded right to my Kindle Paperwhite.
Friends and neighbors. And my brain reminding me to be a good friend and neighbor.
Taking afternoon walks around the neighborhood and seeing whole families outside, even if they don't go beyond their own driveway.
The hope and anticipation that restrictions, at some point, will ease and life as we know it will slowly return to a sense of normal.
I could go on but those items are a great start.
Remember not to take for granted in the future:
The privilege of going out to eat, whether it's a quick burger and fries or a nice sit-down multi-course meal.
No restrictions on outdoor activities such as camping.
Going to the library.
Attending church and receiving communion.
Going to see a movie (providing there's any I wish to see--the only one that comes to mind recently was "1917").
Just about anything else that can be done in and with the public, such as going to a park or community event.
Visiting friends' homes and vice versa.
Again, this list could go on but I feel content with the above for now.
Note to self: Look at this entry a few weeks, then months, then years in the future. Being reminded of what is really important never hurts.
Stay tuned.
