So we are in week six, I think, of the stay at home order. The kids are getting tired of only seeing mom and dad, but we’ve connected with some good friends and family via Zoom and the kids Facetime with their friends, so that has helped.
But we are enjoying the simple things in life.
We got Ace Number One a record player. Only $15 and the crackling sound she craved is here. Of course, the only records I have are some that my older brother gave me from his radio station and a collection of American heritage by Burl Ives. But she loves the sound and the taste of a yesterday she never experienced.
We built a fire pit in the back yard and moved rocks from everywhere to encircle it. There is nothing quite like the taste of hot dogs, marshmallows, and a chilly Connecticut spring night to remind you of the blessings that surround you.
When it rains the school work is finished, we binge watch The Mentalist or Parks and Recs or watch a Star Wars movie again.
We have tried Doubletree Hotel’s chocolate chip cookies. One batch was great. The other batch – no so much – it seems the baker got distracted and forgot a few lines of ingredients. We now know what baking soda, salt, and cinnamon bring to that recipe.
Child number three is busy with his own crafts. He’s made a Darth Vader helmet out of cardboard and more lightsabers that I can count. It’s amazing what a box of 500 hot glue sticks will let you accomplish.
Child number two has discovered sewing and made the cutest stuffed animals for the children who moved in next store.
The youngest has painted, rearranged her room, painted some more, and can be caught practicing head stands and cartwheels anytime she’s outside. Such a spirit of joy in that one.
The experts predict we will be inside for another month. I miss going to the store, but not spending money. I miss going to work and the kids miss being in school. I imagine Maureen misses working uninterrupted in a quiet house.
But if I am being honest, I really, really love having everyone home, being together, and spending time surrounded by those I love the most.
May you find silver linings in the simple things all around you.