We sat together for a Mother’s Day cookout, my hamburger lay cooling on the platter. I like my meat rare and hot, they like theirs well done. My son in law takes mine off the grill first so that it does not overcook and so as in the past, I smile because a cold burger is a small price to pay for being with my grandchildren and my daughter and her husband. During this pandemic, I stay mostly isolated in my downstairs nanny unit. It is entirely self-contained and with rare exception my children stay away to protect me from catching the virus. So being with them was a rare treat.
We didn’t wear masks at dinner but there were no hugs, kisses or touching—an odd sign of the times. Love was there, a good contagious vibe in the air, but certainly sans physical affection, an unwelcome new normal. We took photos after dinner, I returned to my solitary confinement and thanked the universe that I, and my family are still safe—and sincerely hope you are as well.
Carole J. Garrison 