These Days

The strangeness of these days really hit home on Saturday morning when I went to the grocery store and saw a line up of people waiting to get in. Only 50 people at a time are permitted in the store. When I stay home, and keep the news off, I go about my daily routine with little difference than before. The pansies in the pot beside the front porch are blooming their hearts out these days, purple and yellow in endless blossoms (as long as I pick off the faded blooms). 

My sourdough starter needed feeding and I hated to throw away any of it, so last night I made a pan of sourdough biscuits to eat with the beef stew that simmered throughout the day sending wonderful smells throughout the house. 

Many people are freely sharing resources for staying busy during these days at home. I find no lack of things to do, in fact, I'm not accomplishing very much beyond the usual. Charlotte Lyons, on IG, shared this idea for a simple card. I thought it would be fun for the grandchildren to make, so I made sets, sketching quickly in pencil, then using a fine black liner before colouring my set. I'll pop them in the mail, or drop them off in a mailbox and perhaps that will keep the grands occupied for awhile. I had fun with mine, and the various elements can be rearranged as desired. 

I recently learned about Britain's Mass Observation Project that chronicles thoughts, opinions, and experiences of ordinary people. The current iteration began in 1981, but in 1937 people were invited to participate in creating "an anthology about ourselves." Those who participated sent their observations to a central location. This continued through WWII until the 1950s. 

I have always kept a journal, sometimes more regularly than others, but decided about a week ago that recording my thoughts during these strange days would serve as a record of the time for myself, and also help me to work through some of my emotions. I don't often write about current events in my journal, but I am doing so now. 

Over the weekend I baked some lemon shortbread with a lemon glaze. Crisp and buttery, with a melt-in-your mouth texture, they were shared with friends, and the last two remaining were sent to work with Tim this morning. 

Daffodils, hyacinths, and muscari vie with the pansies for colour in the garden. I cut a bouquet for the house and the sweet scent wafts when I walk by. 

I watched this bee for quite some time, busily going from flower to flower, and thought about how lovely life is just now, with spring popping out everywhere and the earth coming alive with flowers and insects. 

How important it is that we find the beauty and the joy in these days, and remember the sweetness of life. How are you faring in these strange times?