Covid-19

June 13th, 2020

It has been a month since I posted. I really had a difficult time looking at my computer screen after teaching online! That being said, school is out, graduation was spectacular in a weird Covid way, and the school year is complete. Last week Maxx worked on a virtual musical, that wrapped up on the 5th, so now we're officially on Summer Break. Our days are much more relaxed with much less haranguing! Maxx and I sat down and made a schedule to follow so we both get to fit the things that are important to us into our days. It has been peaceful.

Aaron has been back to work since May 29th. He's been working a lot and it has been an adjustment for us all! He went back to work on our first day of summer break so Maxx and I have had a lot of time on our hands. I've been gardening and painted the napkin holder. I worked on turning an old dress into a fancy party dress. I've enjoyed puttering with projects. Maxx has stayed busy with bike rides, Minecraft, and Legos.

We're both reading "Okay for Now" for book club so that has provided us a reason to keep track of which day of the week it is.

Last week we took a day to go to Father Hennepin State Park with our bikes. We rode for about an hour then ended up swimming at the beach. It was lovely!

Monday, May 4th - Monday, May 11th

I found myself very grumpy by the end of Sunday night, Mother's Day. I continued to see friends post pictures visiting their families and post things like, "I guess we didn't follow social distancing rules, but it felt so good to hug my mom." I guess part of it was the fact that people were trying to justify breaking the social distancing guidelines as if they acknowledged wrong it would justify it. I saw things posted like, "We just had to, my mom was going crazy without seeing the kids." Hmmmm, so I guess in your world your mom is the only one going crazy from not hugging her grandkids? Newsflash, NO!

This weekend came on the heels of hearing one of our family friends went into quarantine because she had treated a patient and been exposed to Covid-19. This is very real, and very scary. I understand that not everyone is at "high-risk" and not everyone's husband is immunocompromised, however I still feel like we should do what we can to stay healthy!

Of course, I'm sick of quarantine life (Happy Day #57, I think). Of course, I want to go visit my family! Yes, it breaks my heart to not go plant shopping with my mom and grandma today. I had all of these negative feelings and then my husband helped me realized...I can only make choices for me and support my family. I have to let it go. This isn't easy for anyone and everyone is just doing what they believe is right. I don't have to agree, or even like it and I can choose to disconnect and not read the posts.

There were some very happy moments this week! I got some great emails from students. I graded some wonderful journals. May 6th will always be the day Maxx fire danced in the dining room! We biked, gardened, cooked, walked, and I beat Maxx in Battleships. We are doing well and I am thankful for that!

Story Excerpt from 5/6/2020:

This is a REAL conversation that was had at the Patterson residence tonight:

Me: "What happened while your dad and I were on a 20-minute walk."

The anonymous person we live with: "Nothing."

Me: "I found the burned carpet in the dining room."

The anonymous person we live with: "Oh...well, I started a skewer on fire, you know the ones I use in my homemade crossbow and...

Me: "You shot a flaming skewer out of your homemade crossbow?"

Anonymous person we live with: "No! I wouldn't do THAT! I was dancing around the dining room with it and the end fell off and burned the carpeting...BUT I stomped it out, really fast."

Me: - - -

Today, I am grateful for my husband who balances me perfectly & my son who keeps me on my toes!

Sunday, April 26 - May 3, 2020

Time got away from me in the daily journaling world. Our days are very similar lately and 100% based on the weather. Either I teach, then bake, then read OR I teach, then walk, then garden, with the occasional evening bike ride thrown in. The parenting part of life requires I make supper, delegate and police chores, check homework, make sure teeth are brushed and that you actually use soap when you shower...but that is pretty normal. It is 100% awesome that all of these things are things I enjoy! I am grateful, however I MISS people.

In the teaching world we mailed out progress reports. It has been awesome to see so many students log-in and complete work that they missed. The projects and prompts I have assigned are meant to be interesting and uplifting during this stressful time. If I can't see them (them being my students) and talk to them at least I can read their writing and "chat" via instant feedback and email.

As a mom, it has been interesting to watch Maxx change during this time. He is a 12-year-old boy stuck at home with his parents ALL THE TIME. Plus, he's an extrovert. I expected long phone calls or live video chats with his friends, but they happen only once or twice per week. He has done an OK job of logging in and checking on his Google Classrooms. The first few weeks were rough, it is getting better! It helps if I sit down with him and make a paper check off list for him to work from. His teachers have done an outstanding job of making interesting lessons. He has created camouflage moths and hidden them around the yard and played board games for credit. I also appreciate the e-library and its assortment of mythology books that he's been able to explore for Social Studies. He has also loved being able to call family members and play them songs on the guitar as he learns them, he's on week 3 and getting faster each day. His new love is to call a friend and put them on video chat, then mount his phone on his bike and ride laps around the "parent approved" loop.

For the last week my husband, Aaron and I have been taking an evening bike ride. We leave Maxx at home with the dogs and bike about two miles. It's short and sweet, but I've loved it. It's time for us to chat without Maxx's ears around.

Aaron is with Maxx most of the time. Maxx primarily stays on our main floor while I sneak away and hide in the basement to work during the day. I've been so impressed with Aaron's patience and ability to guide him with questions that engage his brain. When they play a game together or work on a project Aaron genuinely tries to explain things to a kid who easily self professes his knowledge of everything. I am beyond grateful for Aaron's ability to do this! (I've pondered this a lot and I think it's because they're SO similar that this works.) After distance teaching/learning all day my attitude is one of "I want to escape and have fun!" by 3:00 when I start to wrap things up. I couldn't handle Maxx's constant questioning being pent up until I was available for them to be unleashed upon. I'm glad he gets to slowly trickle them to Aaron all day long! I think it's best for all of us!

Food Triumphs: Ginger/Banana Bread and Cheesy, Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Three thumbs up!

I am grateful for my husband!

Thursday,

April 23, 2020

This picture perfectly captures our day. Maxx is ever helpful, in his own way and with his own opinions firmly in place.

Today, Governor Walz extended the distance learning plan through the remainder of the school year. I am relieved to know what needs to be done (I like to process and plan). I am also very sad. I am sad for my lost time in my classroom, but I am especially heartbroken for the kids. With that being said, I also know that I work with an amazing group of teachers who will make it as awesome as possible for our students.

Today, I am grateful for my colleagues, especially the ones who teach my son!

Friday,

April 24, 2020

I didn't sleep well, but still woke up at 5:30. Hmmmm, go figure.

I worked in my nice clean and well organized office space.

Tangent: Last night I decided it would help me come to terms with everything if I cleaned and moved my office to a permanent location. I claimed the guest room and moved everything. It was cathartic and I felt better prepared to face teaching from home.

After working all day Aaron and I rode our bikes to the bank to make a deposit, then hung a new trellis (pending success I'll share).

Just as the first rain drops started to fall I started supper and baked a loaf of peanut butter bread. (It's all the rage on Reddit right now.)

Today, I once again find myself grateful for our home. I am thankful to have a guest room space to claim!

Saturday,

April 25, 2020

Our Saturday mornings have become remarkably slow. We're not venturing out, though state park trails are open and social distancing is enough to keep you safe (according to the news) we have elected to stay put. The unknowns are stressful and my high-risk husband needs to stay safe, which means all three of us stay home.

I plan to garden a bit more today. We will take a walk with the dogs and the boys will ride their bikes. We'll play a game and have dinner together and that will be our day. I continually remind myself to be content with that. It's a good day when your family is healthy and safe.

I am grateful for our supply of board games.

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

I'm loving my new candle. It just arrived and I burned it for two hours in the family room, where I work during the day. So far, NO headache! I'll burn it again for a few hours tomorrow and continue my experiment. Thanks again, www.facebook.com/CleanHavenNaturals

That was the only good part of work. Distance Learning has been slow! I've been sending a lot of emails and leaving many voicemails. I'm always busy, use a million post-it notes, have an ever growing "To Do" list and never have enough time in the day, but I wish more of my students (like ALL of them) were turning everything in...but if I'm honest that is my face to face teaching wish too. I have to admit, one thing I enjoy about teaching right now is our immediate feedback capabilities.

I am grateful for the students who are logging in and enjoying working through assignments.

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Today was the day! I passed on the recipe and story of Bobcat Pie. Ten years ago my grandma, Phyllis was hosting Thanksgiving at their house. It was the last family event that was hosted at their place. We were all gathered around getting ready for dessert and my dad asked my grandma if she'd like some pumpkin pie. She shrieked and repeated, "Bobcat Pie!" We all busted out laughing and from that moment on we needed a dessert to honor the event.

Here it is: Bobcat Pie

1 box Vanilla Waffers (dumped in the bottom of a 9X13 inch cake pan and spread out)

1 box vanilla pudding (made with 2 cups of 2% milk following the soft set directions)

1 tsp. vanilla and 1 container Cool Whip (folded into the pudding then spooned over the vanilla waffers)

1/2 cup of Chocolate Chips melted and drizzled over the top with whatever flair you choose

Refrigerate and serve chilled

Sunday, April 19, 2020

The weather was windy, but decent today. I decided today was the day. I set up my FAVORITE coffee spot. I love sitting in this spot in the morning with a fresh cup of coffee, preferably after a nice walk.

It is also a great spot to finish the day. It's wonderful to relax with a beverage and watch the sunset. It's best when the space is shared with a friend, again after a nice walk...but for now, it makes me happy that it is there.

I'm grateful for the nice weather.

Monday, April 20, 2020

I've been using audiobooks from the library (ECRL System) to add background noise to my days. The first few days I worked from home I couldn't believe how quiet it was! (I feel it is important to note that I work sequestered in the basement, away from my boys!) I enjoyed it for the first few hours, then my brain started to go crazy! I've finished 4 audiobooks in the last four weeks. I don't listen to anything serious, just some drama that recreates what I'm used to! I miss my middle schoolers!

I'm grateful for pumpkin bread.

Thursday,

April 16, 2020

Thursday was a hard day. There was nothing specific that made it difficult. I was just exhausted. Our grocery pick-up was pretty good, but some staple items were still out, such as coffee and flour.

I am sad about not teaching live and in person and my grief is very real when I think about how disconnected i've become from my students.

I baked fall harvest pumpkin bread and that not only aromatically improved our environment, but I do enjoy baking so it did cheer me up.

I am grateful for Maxx's virtual guitar lesson. Listening to a very rough "Twinkle Twinkle" was amazing!

Friday,

April 17, 2020

I started off strong with a phone call to a colleague to plan our novel instruction. I felt good, then I started reading messages to my dad for his birthday and I was sad. I HATE missing birthday celebrations!

I had a win when I contacted another student (one that had not been heard from in three weeks) and got through! It was GREAT!

Then my dad dropped off coffee and flour. I was crushed that I couldn't run out and hug him and sing his praises!

Finally, we had pizza and game night. It was amusing to watch the game of Apples to Apples unfold. We all had eight cards at the end. I guess we know each other pretty well!

I am grateful that my roller coaster day was dotted with highs as well as lows.

Saturday,

April 18, 2020

I'm not sure how I misunderstood the weather report for today, but I did. I was planning on cleaning out garden beds and using my garden weasel to till up the soil. That didn't happen. It is windy and has been sprinkling on and off all day. I cleaned a closet, read a cookbook for new ideas and attended an online candle party.

Here is the link:

https://www.facebook.com/CleanHavenNaturals

I haven't been able to burn candles for a LONG time because I always get headaches. I'm hoping these will give me the ability to enjoy a burning candle once in awhile. I've really been needing something to cozy up my at home teaching space.

I am grateful that my husband and I braved the wind and got a good walk in this morning.

Monday,

April 13, 2020

To help us stay in the Easter spirit we visited a few friends by standing it their yards with our "Happy Easter" poster on display. We got many smiles, but by far the most joy came from the assisted living homes. My son did a lap around the horseshoe drive with his sign and many arms waved and smiles sprouted from the inside of the patio doors! It was my favorite moment of the day. He stayed more than 20 feet away, wore a mask and bundled up because it was windy and cold, but it was

THE BEST MOMENT OF THE DAY!

Tuesday,

April 14, 2020

Today was cold and snowy. It could best be described as a dismal day.

I launched one of my favorite 7th grade creative writing projects, but as today is only day one it is not exciting yet.

My big accomplishment of the day was doing laundry and cleaning off this folding table. It's been crowded with junk for a LONG time. It was nice to have this small win today.

I am grateful to have a nice washer and dryer!

Wednesday,

April 15, 2020

Today marks day 30 of quarantine!

I've been getting creative with meals (not to pat myself on the back, but we're eating well).

Tonight, I improvised my usual enchilada recipe to make enchilada nachos. I baked chicken breasts in a little bit of broth, then shredded the meat and added enchilada sauce, black olives, and cheese. I served it over tortilla chips with a drizzle of guacamole sauce. It was good.

I am thankful to have a well stocked pantry!

Saturday, April 11th, 2020

Today, we made face masks out of t-shirts. We have a few Easter gifts to drop off tomorrow and we want to make sure that we keep our loved ones safe, so we made masks today.

Shout out to: JenniferMaker who shared her free patterns with us!

https://jennifermaker.com/no-sew-face-mask-tshirt/?fbclid=IwAR2EZu_MM0I45jEay3YOs8g5HLeyz0Ti-LuDoXWpOxENEH0YoAs3XFdMMag

We added a coffee filter between the two t-shirt layers to increase our filter strength!

I am grateful for free patterns!

EASTER Sunday, April 12th, 2020

In preparation for this interesting Easter I had ordered a few small bags of candy through our grocery store. Each week the treats were unavailable. The third week in March my husband and I sat down and had an Amazon date and ordered our son a volleyball. The shipping of the volleyball continued to be delayed (understandably so, as it's not an essential item). On Wednesday, 4/8, I sat down to make riddle/clue cards for our son to find. I made them with the hope that he could enjoy solving the clues/riddles and then when the items eventually became available he'd be excited that they had arrived. I was empty handed, but had a plan.

I was excited about the plan and because I was excited, he was excited. On Thursday I went to get our weekly grocery order and the candy was there! I got home from picking up the groceries and the volleyball had been delivered!

It was an Easter miracle!

Wednesday,

April 8th, 2020

The weather took a turn on the same day the Shelter-in-place order was extended. Along with high winds and hail we heard Governor Walz tell us all to stay home until May 4th. Today was my 23rd day at home. We have continued taking walks with our dogs, and biking with our son, but aside from one weekly trip to the grocery store to have preordered groceries walked to my car, we've been at home. Our curbside pickup outing last Saturday, though it caused some anxiety, was a Big Deal, and even that was a stay in the car event.

It is amazing to me how drastically our lives have slowed down. I miss my busy life, but I am fortunate to have this time with my family.

Thursday,

April 9th, 2020

My husband, Aaron was furloughed today. Many of his colleagues were fired. We are extremely grateful for his furlough.

These are difficult times and I am thankful to not be in a position to have to run a company needing to make decisions about peoples livelihoods in these uncertain times. I get to teach. I interact with my students and I support them from afar, while checking in and trying to remain a support and positive in their lives. I can listen to them, hear them and give them an outlet.

I am grateful for my students!

Friday,

April 10th, 2020

Today is a NO SCHOOL day!

My husband, took the dogs out at 6am and let me sleep in! It was lovely.

I took some time to work on our Covid-budget.

Then we took a hike in the sunshine.

Our sleep schedules have taken a backseat and our daily to-do lists have become very interesting. Maxx's to-do for today was to recreate something he had dreamed about. He required an empty box, string, paper and markers.

Today, I am grateful to have a very creative son!

Pictured Above: Some art Maxx worked on over the last two weeks, gifts for family for Easter.

Saturday,

April 4th, 2020

I started reading an old favorite, "Dead Until Dark." It brought me a lot of comfort to cuddle on the couch and read late into the night.

We took a 2 mile hike with the dogs and enjoyed the warmer weather. We did curbside pickup for some food truck food, it was nice to have a meal I didn't cook.

I am thankful for my husband.

Sunday,

April 5th, 2020

We took another hike. I tried to stay completely computer free, and I did for the most part.

I read, made raspberry jam from frozen berries left over from last season and then grilled asparagus and chicken. I turned half of the chicken into Chicken Alfredo and the other half will become chicken quesadillas. Meal prepping always makes me feel accomplished.

I am grateful that Maxwell enjoyed the jam!

Monday,

April 6th, 2020

My scheduled assignments launched, unceremoniously...

This kind of teaching is not exciting!

Virtual Book Club was great tonight! The kids were excited to talk about the book and as always brought up some great points.

I am thankful for perennials! They're coming up as if the world isn't different.

Tuesday,

April 7th, 2020

I was VERY excited to Google Hangout with my coworker today! It rejuvenated me! I am a social being and I miss going to work. I feel so much better after a quick Google Hangout. I now feel that I will make it through this week!

I am thankful for my kitchen.

The picture above features Finn, waiting happily to go for a walk!

Thursday, April 2nd, 2020

Today was my day to STRUGGLE! I hated sitting at my computer today. I had to talk myself in to doing it. My eyes hurt, my back ached and I was miserable. I took a walk after my office hours were over and I felt better, but not great. I cleaned out one garden bed and spread some mulch. I tried to work outside, but I just couldn't feel good. I am sad.

I am grateful that even on my bad days my family is understanding and supportive.

Friday, April 3rd, 2020

Here we go! I can do this! It's the last day of week one of distance teaching/learning and I am excited about a slideshow of student work that I created to share with my 7th grade class. I can get through today! I am tired, I am restless, but I will prevail!

I am grateful to have a new flavor of tea.

Wednesday, April 1st, 2020

Maxx and I spent the entire day attempting to prank each other. Maxx got Aaron with an upside down mug on the counter that was filled with water. I showed Maxx a picture of Governor Walz that said, "Students will repeat their current grade levels next school year." Maxx acted casual when I showed him, then posted it to his story where 25 seventh graders immediately exploded! When he came back to ask more questions about how it would work I just whispered, "April Fools." It was awesome!

Tonight was another night of online grocery shopping. I'll share a list of our meals with the hopes that it will inspire someone and take one thing off of their plate.

Sunday: Stuffing meatballs served with rice

Monday: Frozen Pizza and wings with celery

Tuesday: Pork Roast (crockpot: apricot jam, chicken broth, dijon) with garlic butter rice and broccoli

Wednesday: Tator tot Hotdish...Not Granny D's :(

Thursday: Chicken Alfredo pasta

Friday: Brats and beans

Saturday: Tacos

Sunday: Chicken Wraps

Sunday, 3/29/20

We had snow when we woke up on Sunday morning. Thick, heavy, wet snow. It was causing a lot of damage to power lines and trees. After it melted we got out for a walk. Maxx and I mailed off our 2020 census. Then we worked on his "Corona Shed." He mounted his Nerf guns to the wall.

I am grateful for mail.

Monday, 3/30/20

Today was the first day of Distance Learning for Maxx and Distance Teaching for me. It was exciting because I got to talk to my students again, but I hate it. I hate sitting around. I hate the lack of reaction to my lessons. I miss the process before the final "submit" button is pressed. It is what we must do for now...

I am grateful for our learning spaces (Maxx and I each have a space).

Tuesday, 3/31/20

I still hate distance teaching. Did you think it'd change in a few hours? Me either, but this Bitmoji has a real place in my heart right now. Finding the positives, well, I enjoy contacting my branch of the student call tree. It's nice to talk with my students and their families.

I am VERY THANKFUL to have a job that I can do from home.

Saturday, March 28, 2020

It was cold and rainy today. The perfect baking day.

I started my Saturday out with a Google Hangout coffee date with a dear friend. It was fun to chat while still bundled in our robes. After checking the forecast I took a quick walk with the dogs. It looked like rain was headed our way so we got exercise early, before the human boys were even awake!

When we got home I decorated the front door and window to show my support of "A World of Hearts." My teddy bear was also still in his spot and ready for the community bear hunt! (My favorite hunter was my niece Abby!)

Then I spent some time trying a new recipe for oatmeal raisin cookies. They smelled amazing while baking, but didn't spread out so we kind of got lumps of cookie instead of normal cookies. They taste fine, just look silly.

After baking I spent the afternoon listening to the last of Fangirl and worked on my paint by number. Progress is slow, but hey...I've got time. Maxx went out to his new fort (the old garden shed) and talked to a friend on the phone. I'm glad he's got a new space to explore.

Today I am grateful for my sisters. They give me people to "big sister," even if it has to be from afar.

Friday, March 27, 2020

I watched no news yesterday. I did listen to the SYSK podcast about Covid-19, but that was to get information. Distance Learning begins on Monday and I'm sure my students will have questions, so I wanted to be a bit more informed.

Our grocery pick-up went well and I felt that it was a situation that I had much more control over, in regard to reducing the amount of yuck I could potentially bring home to Aaron. I sanitized things before putting them away. We remain well supplied.

I took some time after supper to work on a paint by number. It was fun. I listened to an audiobook while painting and time floated away!

Some friends have been asking for meal ideas so I'll publish my weekly list here. Perhaps it will give someone else an idea to use, however keep in mind we're very fortunate and have a well stocked pantry.

Meal Reflection:

Saturday: Crockpot Beef & Broccoli with rice
Sunday: Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwiches
Monday: Chicken Strips and Baked potatoes
Tuesday: French Toast & Bacon
Wednesday: Pizza Night
Thursday: Taco Bake (Spanish Rice, Black Beans, Hamburger, Cheese)
Friday: Veggie Spaghetti

Today, I am grateful for warm weather that expands our "living area" to our patio and yard.

Thursday, March 26, 2020

Triumph! I remembered that today was Thursday and went to get the trash, but my husband had already put it down at the end of the driveway. I was greeted with a spectacular sunrise! It was an amazing scene, the photo doesn't do it justice, but I tried.

I am spending today uploading my videos to my Google Classrooms. It's taking forever. It turns out, I'm not very good at waiting patiently.

I investigated the ECRL (East Central Regional Library) audiobook library and checked out Coconut Layer Cake Murder....something like that. I've also been listening to Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell. It's wonderful! I'm really enjoying the audio book voices!

I tried ordering groceries online for the first time last night. We only have a pick-up option, not a delivery option, but I'm still excited to not have to go in the building. I go and pick-up this afternoon, we'll see how it goes.

Today, I am grateful for remarkable voice actors and audiobook readers.

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

I had a good work day, very productive. We took a nice hike this afternoon with the dogs. It felt wonderful to get some exercise. We had a pizza party tonight and watched The Thing. Maxx was not impressed by the movie. I'll admit, it wasn't quite what I remembered!

Granny D was able to attend yoga via live video stream. I'm so thankful for technology! It really brightened her day to attend her normal Wednesday yoga session.

I read a very somber article about converting the Civic Center to "Morgue Overflow." It's kind of an emotional roller coaster time of life for everyone right now. I keep focusing on the positives until the negatives bring me to my knees. I am thankful to have friends to reach out to when the negatives threaten to crush me.

Governor Walz extended our school closures until May 4th. He extended bar and restaurant closures until May 1st and we have a "Shelter In Place" order beginning on Friday. The biggest thing I remember from his press conference is that 74,000 Minnesotans could die. My new greatest fear is that someone I love will end up at the makeshift hospital set-up at US Bank Stadium.

I am grateful for our dogs. They keep me hiking!

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

It was foggy and sprinkled on and off today. We got in a quick walk and it felt amazing, but it wasn't long enough. My son is on my mind today. He has always been very good at keeping himself busy, he had to as an only child. I've been so impressed with his Lego building, muffin making, game playing lately. He is on Day 8 of his quarantine and remains positive. He's excited about distance learning beginning on Monday, March 30th. He wakes up with a smile and makes a plan of what he's going to do and I think that is why he's so positive. He has a "to do" list of accomplishments that he wants to get done. There is no deadline. There is no pressure. He just WANTS to do them. My new mantra: I need to be more like Maxx.

Today, I am grateful for pizza. A movie and pizza night is something to look forward to!

Monday, March 23, 2020

Having a staff meeting via Google Hangout was a day brightener. It was nice to "see" my colleagues. I think the thing that has really hit me today is my lack of communication. Sure, I'm emailing and posting, but usually I talk for at least seven hours each day, for work, not counting socializing.

Meal planning has been a positive for me. I like to feed my family.

I also pitched the idea of a Virtual Book Club and it was approved. Now I just need students...

I am feeling the duration of the Covid-19 Schedule timeline growing, though Governor Walz has not extended things and we're still only closed until March 30th. I am expecting an announcement to change that soon.

I am grateful for Stratego. It is my favorite (albeit most frustration inducing) board game! Maxx and I frequently play it, but even Aaron has joined in lately. It has been wonderful.

Sunday, March 22, 2020

It has been one week since everything was shut down; school for our son, work for my husband and I became a distance teacher. I spent a lot of time this week just trying to stay "normal." I got up for work each morning, got dressed and ready then reported to work (beginning on Wednesday, via email). I took one last supply trip on Thursday, using the social distancing rules, the washing hands rules and I took hand sanitizer with me in to the grocery store. It has been a week of drastic change.

I only check the news in the morning and in the evening. I am on facebook several times each day to share a post about food pick-up at school or new social distancing rules for the food shelf or a funny meme meant to brighten spirits or spread joy.

My weekend felt like a weekend. I did not work or check the threads filling the "Teaching During Covid-19" group. My brain is not ready yet. To me "distance teaching" is empty right now. Students will bring it meaning. I look forward to March 30th when I will actually have students!

I am thankful for my family.

This very simple line of thanks is so very important!

Saturday, March 21, 2020

I've got supper cooking in the crockpot. We're going outside to practice some volleyball moves and walk the dogs. My son is watching "Captain America." Today feels like a normal Saturday.

Aaron got a good night of sleep and his saltine and Jello diet is going well.

Things are good. I am grateful.

Friday, March 20, 2020

Aaron, my husband, had a Crohn's attack last night. We thought we had it under control until it flared up again around 9:00 am. We called the hospital and got information for how to follow their current ED procedures and I dropped him off at the door. It was exceedingly difficult to just drive away. After five hours he was released with meds for the week and thankfully his prescription was able to be filled almost immediately.

Our son said, "I'm bored" today. It was the first time all week.

Today, I am grateful for the sunshine. Things seem better when the sun is shining.

Thursday, March 19, 2020

I worked remotely from the dining room table this morning. I am quickly discovering that I need to create a work space that is not where we live and hang out. I am going to carve out a space in the basement soon.

This week Maxx discovered that he is not a fan of peeling potatoes, he can do laundry and creating art is relaxing. We're selecting a book to read starting next week. I'm excited about that! I have not been able to relax and read without checking my phone, listening to the latest news report or looking at my work email. That being said, I know I'll do it if it's for my son, if not for myself.

Today, I am thankful for texts and emails from work. I still feel involved, even though from afar.

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

We ordered pizza from a local shop. In times like these the small businesses, the ones that make me love our community, need support. There are overwhelming tributes to community support and generosity popping up on FB posts. They balance all of the negative.

Maxx and I enjoyed a movie night, but we couldn't focus on the movie. We're both restless in a new way. We'll find some sort of rhythm, eventually.

We mailed cards to nursing homes today. It felt good to be productive. I know that I'm working and creating lessons that will be good, but without students it's just a plan.

Today, I am thankful for technology. I can email my amazing colleagues. I can stream Netflix. I can talk to my family and friends on facebook.

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Late Monday night we got word that people living with "medically vulnerable" people should quarantine. I fall into this category, so I emailed my boss and colleagues and prepared to work remotely.

As I logged in to my Google Classroom to prepare lessons a message from one of my students brought me unabashed joy! It hit me then how much I miss them. It's not that they've missed a day or two of school, it's that I don't know when I'll see them again that bothers me.

My own son, a 7th grader, is in good spirits. He's been doing his own science experiments, writing his own stories and fortunately for us both he's very busy and has a home full of supplies and books! He's spending this afternoon mastering a new magic trick and I'm grateful.

Today, I am thankful that we are resource rich. Our pantry is stocked and our bookshelves are stacked.

Monday, March 16, 2020

School was closed to staff. It was admin only today. The question of HOW we would teach our students was on everyones mind. We all want what is best for them, and we know that is being in our classrooms. Wrapping our heads around how this could look from a distance was a lot. Bars and restaurants were ordered to close their dine-in options. They would still have carry-out with curbside pick-up available.

The news is always awful.

I was exhausted by 2pm, I found my lack of students drained me. I realized quickly that I would have to reduce my news intake. My brain couldn't process anymore bad news.

Thank God we have toilet paper in the house!

Today, I am thankful for our home. There is always something to be fixed or needing repair, but I am so grateful to have it!

Sunday, March 15, 2020

Sunday night it was announced that Governor Walz was closing schools until March 30th. I am a 6-8th grade teacher and my 7th graders had just returned from a week long trip at Wolf Ridge on Friday. I had already not seen them for a week...and now, there was no time to have a happy greeting and hear about their adventures. I was sad, but it just felt like a snow day closure.

My husband had also received the call that the casino would be closing and he should not report to work until March 31st.

Today, I am grateful for the PS4 because it brings my husband hours of entertainment.

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