I generally steer away from “toxic” topics or political discussions on this blog (there are plenty of other places you can certainly click on to get your fill of that, no matter which way you politically lean), but I have to say that I’m baffled by the continued resistance of wearing masks in public places, stores, and other indoor settings as we navigate this pandemic. We’ve been very fortunate in Maryland (so far), and especially in the western portion of…
As I watch my own daughters grow up, I’m reminded of the differences that seem inherent between an older and a younger sibling. Through observations of my own family, my own experiences, and my very unscientific conclusions, my theory consists of a few hypothesis statements: The first-born takes on the mantle of being the responsible, serious family member. The second-born is a wildcard. Sibling rivalry is real (Sorry, this theory doesn’t factor in any “middle” children. The only thing I…
I’m sitting here in my back room, watching the multitude of birds flitting in and out of my bird feeder, thinking about the lessons I’ve learned from the ongoing pandemic. It’s been a long couple of months in isolation from friends, family, and the normal daily routine of what I call “life” (and it looks like we may be in for an up and down summer as infection rates rise and fall), but I have a few takeaways. I Used…
Many states are beginning to slowly ease back on restrictions and business closures they imposed as a result of the coronavirus and pandemic mitigation efforts. Here in Maryland, we’ve just entered the beginning of “Phase Two” of the economic “reopening” plan, which allows most retail locations, restaurants, and other businesses to resume operations (albeit with several caveats and restrictions). As the recent lock-downs as a result of COVID-19 start to expire, what exactly does that mean for our future experiences…
If you’ll recall, I made the decision to put out a garden this year, and have been dutifully tending my 26’ x 5’ plot in the Clear Spring Community garden ever since. I’m also happy to report that after a slow start (where I thought I might be this year’s only tenant), three more of the six remaining plots have been claimed, so at least I have some gardening neighbors. I’m still working from home most days of the week,…