This is a crazy time, isn’t it? It’s like a roller coaster ride. I remember back in early to mid-March, when we were getting very nervous about what the virus might do. At that point there were some people saying this was no big deal (no, I’m not talking about him – that will never be a topic here), that it was all much ado about nothing. So there was this friction between those who felt that way and others who thought this was something new and different and very scary. Then right after the stay-at-home orders were issued around most of the country, and after we started seeing hospitals overwhelmed by gravely ill people, it felt that most people were in agreement – staying at home, protecting yourself and others, was a good and necessary thing. There was a short period of time where it felt like we were all united toward a single purpose, and even though the virus was still scary I felt warmed by that unity. But then, gradually, it started falling apart. I suppose it was inevitable, especially in these politically polarized times. But that doesn’t make me any less sad to see it go.
This week has flown by. Usually on Mother’s Day Sam and I go for a hike and a picnic in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This year the combination of coronavirus and cold, rainy weather led to us having an indoor picnic while we watched old episodes of the PBS children’s television show “Arthur.” Yes, as in Arthur the aardvark. Earlier in the day I made a loaf of this bread, which is both fool-proof and fabulous.
Work has continued to be full-on, and although I am so very, very grateful to not be among the huge numbers of unemployed people in this country, I am also tired. I’m looking forward to a little less job stress as we finish up generating statements next week. And maybe I’ll be able to spend a little more time here at that point.
Remember the robin that made a nest on our front door? We’ve been carefully watching the chicks grow. There were four eggs and it looks like three of the four hatched. Now they’re getting big enough to start leaving the nest. We have love love loved the experience of watching first the mother robin tending so diligently to her nest-sitting duties, then the constant back and forth-ing involved in feeding three hungry mouths, and now seeing the bright-eyed chicks sitting up in the nest. Still, it will be nice to use the front door again. Sort of like that end-of-summer-break-feeling you get as a parent. It’s bittersweet, but you know it’s time for them to spread their wings.
I’ll see you again tomorrow!
Love,
Michelle xoxo
Bread looks great!