DAY 24

Oh, how quickly we adjust to what seems unacceptable. Last week when I went to Kroger I was nearly in tears seeing all of the people wearing masks. This morning I went to Kroger - and I wore a mask. Most of the shoppers were wearing them and it did not bother me at all. I went early, there were not many people in the store at 7:45, but a cashier told me that dozens of people were lined up to get in at 7:00.

Miss Nine started working on the math lessons that her teacher assigned online. There were a few tears and some frustration (Miss Nine was fine though). Seriously, she wanted to do all five lessons but I convinced her to save some for later in the week.

We have grown accustomed to staying home and entertaining ourselves. Every day walks, schoolwork, meal preparations and napping take up a good chunk of the day. I am beginning to wonder how we ever had time to leave the house.

We took a walk today to our neighborhood park. We found the play equipment surrounded by caution tape, with a sign warning that all public parks are closed until further notice. There was a sign warning of possible fines for violating the closure. Miss Nine was disappointed. We were not even able to use the Clorox wipes we brought with us.

When we got home we found a lovely surprise outside our front door. A pot of  narcissus and a chalked heart were on the sidewalk. Thanks to the neighborhood elf (we know who you are!) who cheered us up with this! These are the things that are holding us all together. The little acts of love and kindness that remind us of what is important. We will survive and be better for the challenges we have faced.

Every night at bedtime Miss Nine talks about all of the things that she is sad about right now. Then we talk about the things that we have to be grateful for. We are especially thankful for our wonderful friends and neighbors.