Maia barely looked up from the book she was reading and said, "May Day. Did you know that boys used to plant a pole in the yard of the girls they liked?"
And then Ruby chimed in "Mom, has a boy ever planted his pole in your yard?"
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One of our new quarentine routines is to walk our dog first thing in the morning. Usually it's just Ruby and I. I've noticed the transition from sweatshirts and jackets to t-shirts over the past month. Summer is just around the corner.
This morning she said "I really like quarentine. We're not busy all the time and we actually get to spend time with you and Dad."
I asked "Is there anything you miss that you can't do because of shelter in place?"
"No, not really. I miss seeing my friends, but that's it."
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I miss the anticipation of seeing my kids get off the bus and then having their energy fill the house as they dump all their school gear on the floor and race to go to the bathroom and get a snack. I miss the feeling of freedom, of having choices. I miss a barbell (not snatches) and the comraderie of working out with friends.
I know more of my neighbors' names now. I've spent more time outside this spring than I ever have since living in Kansas. We eat dinner together every night. Ruby and I read a long chapter book together. The girls are playing (and fighting) together more than they usually do. Maia will be entering middle school next year, and in a way, I feel like we've gotten to hit pause and enjoy her childhood a bit longer.
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There are days that are hard and days that are easier. Working fills me with purpose and simultaneously leaves me drained. Teaching online is harder. I'm noticing that some of the emotional struggles I feel are not unique to this pandemic, which gives me perspective on how to keep growing as a human.
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Aleks shaved his sideburns last night. He couldn't handle the growing "pubes" on the side of his face. He thinks it looks ok.
Hair grows back. And barpershops will open again one day.
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I was extremely eager to rip March down from my calendar. April has passed so quickly. It reminds me of the baby years; each day drags and drags, yet the months fly by.
May's little boxes are empty this morning. I'm hesitanat to make plans. To set expectations that may not be met.
I think what helps me is to stay in the moment. I have a family I like, an awesome house, plenty of food, my job. One thing at a time.
Happy May Day, friends.
