234 Days ago

234 Days ago was the last time my husband and I were off the Farm together for anything social.

We'd bought candy and cards and took his mother flowers for her birthday which was to be the next day. She was turning 89 years old. Rich 'drove' his mom's wheelchair to lunch and we spent time visiting with everyone at her table at Bethel Home. She was so excited to have her son there and to introduce him to the 'cast' of characters that she had meals with.

This was the last time we were able to see her. The next day the nursing home called us to tell us because of Covid-19, they were suspending visits. However we could call and set up video calls.

That day was also the last day that I'd worked out physically at CrossFit.  Pictured is me with the two fellows I usually worked out with. We figured the gym was going to get shut down. It was...

Bam. The doors were shut. The State entered the Safer At Home Order March 25th. I'd sort of anticipated shortages at the grocery stores but was flabbergasted by the great Toilet Paper shortage.

The WI Supreme Court lifted the 'lockdown' in a court battle. I won't get into the politics there at all. We were careful. We followed the science listened to Rich's VA doctors. We turned to virtual medical appointments. And Rich thrived on being a Hermit. He went out and mowed the yard for the first time in 3 years. His memory isn't better, but around his machinery it is like he never took a hiatus.

I took up Virtual CrossFit. In order to keep my sanity, I needed to work out and challenge myself physically. 

Then the phone call came from the nursing home. Rich's mom took that turn ... I went in and sat with her for 3 days. I was not allowed out of her room and they brought meals to me.

We had a small service outside with good social distancing on July 4th. I was a bit relieved. His mom did not have to keep wondering why we didn't come to visit. We would explain each time we talked with her but she didn't understand.

Summer dragged on. The only time we saw anyone not from our farm was those who saw us at the funeral.

We had surprise guests over Labor Day Weekend from Missouri. They stayed in their camper at a local county park.

I really started to miss my friends from Kenosha and visits from my sons. I used to go hiking with my neighbor and her children. We visited once in a while across the fenceline. 

What now? 

Most of the time I'd say that I'm fine without any company. But I did look forward to visits. Ever since Rich's multiple health incidents we have stayed home most of the time. It stopped most of my travels because he can't care for himself any more. 

What is happening in our country? We are close to an election. What will happen in the next few days?

What will the next 122 days bring us?

What will I say to myself when we hit the one year mark?