Looking back and looking ahead

 

These photos are from a year ago this week. The week was packed with contest performances, a concert at the Kauffman Center, a concert at Yardley hall, and a full week of teaching. We were getting ready to fly to Dublin, Ireland to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. I had heard of the coronavirus, and I knew it was making its way to our country. But it wasn’t until March 13, that I knew how serious it was. All of our plans came to a screeching halt. We canceled our trip to Ireland, we decided to go to Estes Park for the week of spring break. Estes Park is our happy place, our safe place. But even that trip was cut short. We were concerned about travel restrictions, and we wanted to get home where we were comfortable. There was no toilet paper available. Everyone was panicked and locked down in their homes for safety. This blog tells the story of our change of pace over the last 12 months.  I quit keeping a calendar, because there was nothing to put in it. We didn’t see friends or family except through an occasional zoom call. We played games at home and our dogs were living their best life. It was not unusual for me to take 4 walks a day. I learned how to teach band online. 

Here we are today. 

Clif and I received our one does of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine on Monday. Science has accelerated their research and testing to equip our world with life saving vaccines. How can I not be grateful? 

So, I choose to mark this season with gratitude. Yes, so much was lost this past year. But so much was gained as well. Rich family time, independent learning skills, relationships with new students, technology skills, and a stronger marriage. I’m thankful for our good health and the health of our family. God is good!