LOVE IN THE TIME OF COVID

We've been watching a pair of doves care for their babies  in the backyard. They built their nest precariously in the crook of a tree close to our deck. Doves have two babies at a time and are generally monogamous. Look closely - you can see the two little ones tucked in with Mom (or Dad). We watched as they have switched off on nest duty, fed them and did their best to keep them safe from squirrels and other birds swooping around. A pandemic makes no difference to them. It is still a difficult job raising a family.

My son and his wife are soon-to-be first time parents! 

They have been maneuvering the risky business of pregnancy during a pandemic. As well, Carolyn works in health care. This is love in the time of COVID-19. They have had to be extra careful, with no celebrations and buying what they needed to build their  nest on line. 

We had planned to fly out to B.C. to meet the baby soon after the birth. But we have decided to postpone for now, not wanting to risk a flight and bringing something into their home with a newborn. My heart is aching to meet this new Little Prince and to spend some time Adrian and Carolyn. But this is love in the time of COVID - distant, virtual, untouchable. 

I know the path ahead is still a long one. That we have not conquered this virus yet. But we are making progress! 

Love can not be stopped by a pandemic. It is still patient and kind, it does not envy or boast; it is not proud or rude. It is not self-seeking or easily angered. It keeps no records of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, trust, hopes and perseveres. (1 Cor. 13)

We are living in difficult times. Let's continue to Love in this time of COVID.

MARCO.....POLO

I love when the Forget-Me-Nots show up each spring in the garden. But this year, they were getting carried away and taking liberties. 

I was trying to find a few other plants that were getting lost in the blue riot. It was like a game of Marco Polo.  

Me searching through the blue mass: "MARCO"
Struggling Echinacea: "Polo!"
I stripped half the party out to let echinacea breathe.

Then I thought I would see what's happening in the back yard. I had moved my strawberry plant into a pot to be safe from Mr. Bunny. 

Me looking for any signs of berries: "MARCO!"

Baby Strawberries: "POLO!"

My Mom was showing me some old pics and this one was in the bunch:

My 9th birthday. A flourescent light exploded in the kitchen (random) all over my cake and spaghetti sauce that had been simmering on the stove. I'm extraordinarily happy considering my birthday dinner was ruined and quick replacements had to be found. But where is that smiling, innocent little girl gone? Is she still around?

Me: "Marco?"

A small little voice inside replied: "Polo"

Some things that are hiding in these pandemic days can still be found. Some seem lost forever. 

How about shaking hands, hugs, road trips, concerts and big celebrations. 

Me: "MARCO!"........

What happened to the busy office buzz and raucous laughter in the kitchen at lunch?

"MARCO!"........

We are slowly, slowly coming out of this full-stop pandemic time. Some things will never be the same. Some things may even be better. And some things will come back, feel familiar and be greatly welcomed.

"Polo"