Pandemic Ending?

 Well, here were are 14.5 months after the shunt down, and I think I can finally write that the pandemic is beginning to end.    

A few weeks ago, they announced in California that we could be outside without masks if we were fully vaccinated.  Finally after a year with running outside with a mask, I left it at home.   I realize that most places were not as strict with mask wearing, especially outside, but around here people would scream at you for running without a mask.   It was a little out of control, honestly.   But, also I suppose, why we never had a huge surge here.

Friday was the first day that I went for a run and didn't see anyone else wearing a mask either.  And we have been to a few social events: a Memorial Day barbecue, a baby shower.

Ethan will get his second shot next week.   By June 15, when he will be 2 weeks out from his second dose, our governor states we can all go to pre-pandemic practices.   Not that things will change overnight here.   

This time period has been tough.   Especially for front-line workers like Jason and myself.   While others have pivoted to staying at home, we have continued to commute.   We have stressful jobs at baseline, compounded by the stress of catching Covid at work, compounded again by the additional significant stress at home sorting out childcare, school situations, and our children's emotional isolation. 

We have coped, relying on the strength of our relationship, our shared values and common goals.   Not all have been so lucky.

Three physicians that I have trained with have committed suicide during this pandemic.   One from medical school.   One from residency.   And one from fellowship.   

Two were married with kids.   

Three lives lost in 14 and a half months, the most recent one happening just two weeks ago.

Years of training, experience and knowledge.   Gone.

I don't know if I will ever be able to reconcile this all in my head.

What a shame.   

Cousin Barb Comes for a Visit!

 On Saturday, we had company from Wisconsin!   My Dad's cousin Barb, and her friend Denise were in California for a wedding/vacation.   They spent their last night at my Dad's house, and came over to our place for dinner.  We were lucky to have a beautiful day, and we enjoyed a nice meal outside.   Jason smoked some ribs--which were delicious.   It was a lot of fun to catch up, and hear about their California adventure.   We hope they will make a trip back soon!

On Sunday, it was cherry time, and we headed to Brentwood for some cherries.   We went to Pomeroy Farm--and though it seemed like the cherries this year were a bit smaller and tarter than in years past, we still walked away with 11 pounds!

Girl Scout Campout

 This weekend, Alaina had a girl scout camping trip!   Well, actually it was more like glamping.

We all stayed at the troop leader's dad's house (or perhaps more of an estate) in St. Helena in the Napa Valley.  

The house has been in her troop leader's family for years, and is perched high above the valley with a spectacular view.   The girls had a blast swimming, running around and playing games.   We ordered pizza for dinner and the moms got to enjoy wine made from the grapes that grow in the backyard!  

  

After dinner the girls roasted s'mores, and then enjoyed an outdoor movie.

I borrowed an air mattress from Jeremy, with the thought of getting a great night's sleep.  Unfortunately, it seems that the air mattress sprung a small leak, so in the middle of the night I found my bottom resting on the ground.   Alaina actually slept pretty well, from about 10:30pm to 6:30.

We left early the next morning, after profusely thanking our generous hosts.  

Alaina had an amazing time.  Now, I need to nap!

 

Mother's Day

 It was nice to have an in-person Mother's Day celebration this weekend.  Jason's parents, brother and Aunt Marcy joined us for brunch.  Certainly a difference from last year.

We also lucked out on the weather--it was sunny and 80.  Warm enough that everyone got in the pool for a swim after eating.

The kids painted a small pot an planted a succulent for me for Mothers day.   Very sweet.

I feel very fortunate to be a mom to these two.   💗

Baseball and Softball

Well, sports are back in full swing in Marin.  (Somehow, school is still not, but I digress).

Ethan is playing his last year of little league baseball.   As one of the older players, he is having a lot of fun.   He has been playing first base most games, and seems to like this position.   he has even had some great hits at base this year.   He definitely has made a lot of improvement from when he last played two years ago.   The games are actually pretty entertaining to watch.   Will update with pics--just realized I haven't taken any of Ethan yet this season!

Alaina is playing her second year of softball.   This year, they start kids pitching, so she has been learning the steps to a softball pitch.   It is actually pretty complicated.   She enjoys playing and pitching, so that has been fun for her.