Mask On, Mask Off

Virginia has entered into its mandatory masks in public phase and I have found yet another use for some fabulous fabrics I initially bought for sewing sensational Spring inspired napkins and tea towels.

After many tutorials and much reading, I settled on one of the many Youtube videos, that made the most out of my on hand materials. It was a useful guide to executing my own.  

I have been making masks for my family members, starting with my children of course and my mom, who's 80 years young, both in the high risk factor portion of the population, including but not limited to asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, and myself, bringing a side of RA to the table. 

I've also come up with a hand sanitizer formula including aroma therapy oils, to soothe the drying  and chaffed hands and the mind.  An added plus of aromatherapy oils is that the essential oils have natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties, fortifying the alcohol even more.

 I feel that even if the masks do not eliminate our risks completely, I am proactively taking charge of the practices we can control, alongside limiting travel and large crowds, vigilant and proper hand washing techniques and consistently decontaminating common areas, door knobs and adding a splash of bleach to the dishes water, something I did already. 

 Although this pandemic leaves no one safe, I like to think that 'we'll be alright, some day', a phrase from a gospel hymn, one that brings me solace in a time of such confusion and burgeoning uncertainty.  

When you return home from interacting with the world, the masks can be removed to enjoy some wholesome and delicious home cooked meals with family and snacks, while we play board games or watch Scooby Doo and the gang. 

 Family is at the heart of why we fight and why we keep going.  The fire in our bellies burn to protect the ones we love and compassion to sympathize with the families in areas most and least affected, the prayers we send out at night or the time we take to volunteer or lend a hand where we can does not go unnoticed and for that one should be grateful.  I know I am.  Amen.

Before I Go...

This is LeMon Grey, I like to call him Kibbeh. He looks like a panda bear in this photo of him chewing on his favorite, sticks!  He's wearing his hair piece, which he loves to toss about and shake.  He's a doll baby and an endless source of entertainment for our family.  He's not our pup, but we love him just the same.  I hope you were able to take a moment to smile and take it easy like this guy, until next time...