Who knew?

Today, just random thoughts!  Finding myself wondering lots of things these days!  I can almost hear Andy Rooney’s voice now…”Did you ever wonder?”

Who knew that on March 13 (Friday, the 13^th), we would begin four long months (as of this past Monday) of shutdowns, quarantines, travel restrictions, masks, and isolation from family and friends?  For me, it was the week after the Gala and we could have been one of the fundraising casualties if our event had been one week later.  I’m grateful every day for that blessing!

Who knew that toilet paper would be so precious?  I have always appreciated toilet paper and other paper products, but never did I see such a demand.  In line with this “who knew” I can say that although I knew people were greedy, who knew that greed would cause a severe shortage in toilet paper, napkins, and paper towels?  Come on people, cut back on what you use, and save some for your neighbor.  UGH!  I think that was one of the worst parts of this whole pandemic…watching the greed of others.

Who knew hand sanitizer could be made at distilleries?  (*Please do not drink it!!!)  Who knew that Bath & Body Works had so many different scents in their hand sanitizer line?  And who knew that ANYTHING with the word “sanitizer” on the label would become the latest “hard-to-find” commodity?  It’s crazy!  The laundry sanitizer that had been a staple for my parents was now the object of a scavenger hunt with family and friends!  Shout out to those who did find it for us!!

Who knew what “social distancing” meant before March or April of this year? I sure didn’t.  In fact, the word “social” and “distance” would never have been used in the same sentence with me.  I sure know what it means now, though, and I can tell you, I do it because I know it’s the right thing to do, but I don’t like it!

Who knew masks would become such a vital part of our daily lives?  I heard Marco Rubio say “Wear the Damn Masks” and I have since made that my sign off on just about everything.  It’s a minor inconvenience for a kind act.  At one point, they were hard to find. Now, masks have become craft projects, works of art, gifts from others, readily available, and even stylish accessories.  I can’t wait to see the Derby masks…I am thinking they will rival the fascinators and hats!  #wearthedamnmask

Who knew that loved ones would have to go to the hospital without any family support?  Who knew that a pregnant woman would possibly have her husband as support but in some cases, she’d deliver alone?  I’ve seen several friends become grandmas recently and I’ve heard their sadness about not being able to visit until recently…visiting through a screen door or dropping food off with only blowing a kiss.  I know that I would have been heartbroken if I could not have been with Katie while she was in labor.  I would have been crushed not to be waiting anxiously for Anthony to announce that we had a boy, named Gabriel.  Again, I know I was extremely blessed and I continue to be, after spending seven weeks in Pittsburgh with them during this pandemic.  (at least I think they still love me!!) 

Who knew that students would graduate from grade school, high school and college without the pomp & circumstance they all deserve?  I know schools did really creative things to celebrate their students.  I hate it for those kids but honestly, I have been very impressed with the maturity shown by those students.  Congratulations!  To the teachers, staffs, administrators and boards of the various schools and school districts, I pray for you every day as you work hard to make the right decisions regarding your students and your school environments.  Who knew that an overcrowded classroom may mean there are 12 students instead of 10? 

Who knew that parents of Juniors & Seniors in New Albany, Indiana would think it was a good idea to throw a prom for their kids last week?  Who knew that The Grand (their venue), a DJ, and a photographer would offer discounted services to give them this prom?  Are they in the same country as I am?  The 40 photos in the paper would say otherwise.  To be honest, when I saw the pictures, young people clinging to one another in a crowded room, I actually felt sick.   I say “What is wrong with people?”  Will other parents decide to do the same?   Let’s hope not.

Who knew that when I made my decision to leave Mt. Notre Dame, to get back to Louisville with family and friends, I’d end up moving in with my Mom & Dad, occupying my old bedroom?  I’m so happy to be home, but it’s been hard not to be able to connect with friends like I would have liked.  We are making plans to enjoy one another soon, but I had hoped to have my calendar filled with happy hour, shopping outings, and game nights with friends.  Get ready…it’s going to happen!  I know I can’t wait to hug on all of you soon!!

Who knew anything about Zoom before March?  I am loving the Zoom calls with friends and family!  I’m the queen of scheduling these and I even had a Zoom job interview yesterday!  Zoom has been used for my counseling sessions and even for a medical appointment.  Crazy, but it works.  If you haven’t tried it, let me know.  I would be happy to share what I know!

Who knew this brunette would be brave enough to consider going all gray???  It’s growing on me and thanks to all of those nice comments and photos of friends who have done just that, I’m thinking I could pull it off.  Not committing to anything yet, but who knew I’d even be entertaining the idea???

Who knew that despite the shutdowns, quarantines, and greediness of many, we’d fine little signs of kindness and love?  People donating food to the food pantries, people supporting online fundraisers, people dropping off meals for neighbors, people grocery shopping for others, people supporting small businesses with the purchase of gift cards and carryout, people figuring out ways to connect by hosting driveway and deck visits…all signs that we will come out of this…and who knew?

Who knew I’d have to keep myself sheltered and safe for two weeks before being able to hold Gabriel, my grandson?  Well, I knew I would do anything I had to do to be able to hug and hold him.  We’ll all be sweaty and hot, as we stay outside as much as possible, but we’ll get to be together…More about our gathering next time!

Stay healthy and safe friends!  See you soon…I hope!!