Once again, we find ourselves in another wave of infection caused by another variant. A state of emergency has been declared in DC, but what does that even mean anymore? Kids are still expected to go to school (if their school hasn't been forced to go virtual because of an outbreak), and we are expected to still work. Today is the last day before winter break, and I'm just holding my break and crossing my fingers and toes that we don't have a case at work.
The past weekend was unseasonably warm, and we were able to see several friends outdoors. It was wonderful, but then there was the lingering feeling afterwards - what if one of us was exposed to the disease, even though we were being relatively careful? I had a negative test a few days after, and everyone appears healthy. So we keep going, holding our breath and hoping we can remain healthy for Christmas, to see family. Then, the new worry will be after that. We balance needing to have these times with friends and family for our mental health and to simply enjoy the basics of life, and then feeling guilty and worried afterwards. At least, thanks to vaccines, there is a little less worry. If illness touches our family again, we will likely be able to handle the inconvenience, and none of us are likely to become severely ill. But, having a child that is still too young to be vaccinated is eternally frustrating.
Penny's class talked about the winter solstice a lot yesterday, and they made "suncatchers". Their hope and innocence is refreshing during these times of doom.
Last year, "Long December" seemed so poignant: "It's been a long December, and there's reason to believe, maybe this year will be better than the last". And then the year happened, and a few things that happened were better. But as a whole, the year was still a dumpster fire in so many ways.
We are trying to "live with the virus" and carry on with life, but it continues to be a struggle. So, as 2021 ends, I am reflecting on the good, the bad, and the lessons learned. I have no great words of wisdom, I'm just tired.
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