Attempting to Return to Pre-Pandemic "Normal"

 Our entire Family has had both shots (with just three with only one shot) so we had a most anticipated Easter Celebration!  I had prepared most of the Easter  foods earlier and froze what I could or at least made a couple days ahead as I wanted to only hug and hug and hug and stare at my Grands!!!!!

(And Dr. Fauci said I could hug these precious angels!!!!)

It truly was a most magical experience!  Who could possibly believe that we would go more than one year without being with each other?  This from a Family that is always in touch and concerned with one another.

When my Grand Daughters arrived, I actually broke down in tears! They were taller and smarter than when I last saw them and I felt so "left out"!  I used to know who their friends were, what they liked to eat, what they didn't like to eat, etc.  and I felt so adrift!!  When my small Grand Son arrived, I experienced the same feelings.....he seemed so grown up!!!!!

However, after a short period, we were all back Pre-Pandemic with our love, concern and caring for one another!

I have mentioned this before but I will do so one more time:  I think we have all "suffered" and learned from this Pandemic Experience........we have had scandals involving politicians; we have suffered division among the states of the United States; many, oh, so many have experienced loss of jobs and money......the list of sacrifices and loss can go on and on......but what I wish most fervently is that we do learn from this and NOT FORGET!......we keep this close to our heart and react and behave accordingly...... 

There are so many things we can do.....my 93 year old Mother felt she did not need the stimulus monies so she donated to the Food Bank!....there are so many ways we can all help to unify this country and get us all back on track......but we must NEVER FORGET!...............

Remember 9/11?  We were all unified and one......let us be that once again!!!!

That is my most fervent  prayer!!!!

Easter, 2021

 I am filled with such anticipation, I can hardly contain myself!  

We have not been together as a family since March 1, 2020!  

We had to cancel Easter last year because of the Pandemic.......

But, now!!!! we will all be vaccinated and will gather this weekend for the Easter holiday!!!  I am truly beside myself......might have to send a photo of me hugging the Grands into the Today show!!!!.....

Instead of setting a beautiful table with the antique, gold painted china and delicate linens, the BOB bought disposable plates so I can sit with the family and just stare at them and enjoy!

I prepared a large amount of meatballs for the first night.....rigatoni, meatballs, antipasti, bread......and have homemade chicken stock for the Grands to enjoy chicken soup.....macaroni and cheese all made and frozen....picked up the ham today.....we are scrubbing the house so everything is shiny!.....we are just so excited!!!!!

I am sure that every grandparent who has not been able to see and hug their Grands feels exactly like we do!  This Pandemic has been such an experience!  

There are some traditions I just could not pass on.....such as Italian Easter Pie!  Usually my granddaughter Madeleine prepares these with me and last year my sister in law came to help.  This year I am alone but that is just fine and I will prepare these with much love!