Looking back, looking forward

 

This is the clematis blooming exactly a year ago. It was a much warmer spring. The January windstorm destroyed it, down to a pitiful brittle stick. I suppose it will eventually grow back, although years until it looks glorious again.  But then, we're all feeling a bit stunted after this long winter.

The March 2020 blog was mostly pictures of home-baking projects and puzzles. We were truly locked down in Seattle, with only the essential businesses open and most people afraid to even leave the house.  The streets and freeways were eerily empty. The sidewalks were chalked with hopeful words. 

We didn't really understand back then how the virus spread, so every object was a potential threat, from our delivered mail to food from the grocery store. Disinfecting wipes, toilet paper and hand sanitizer were like gold. But there was a feeling of the community pulling together, and the belief it would soon be over. Little did we know. 

The experts told us not to wear masks. Amanda had to make a single mask last all day at the clinic. Now, a year later, I have box of cheap disposable surgical masks on my dresser, and wouldn't think of leaving the house without one. How things have changed.

Good news: there are about 7 million people living in Washington, and 2 million have already been vaccinated. All the seniors I know who want a vaccination have been able to get one, and I hope they soon open it up for younger adults. We have many friends in that 55-65 age bracket.  

So after a long and socially isolated year, empty of family visits, holiday celebrations and travel, we're starting to hope and dream and plan again.