0 Dark 30….

The house is still, except for the ticking of the clock and the hum of the refrigerator.  It is darkness, only illuminated by the tiny lights on the electronics in the television stand and my laptop.  Outside is the same, our light shining on our flag, the post lights at the edge of our driveway.  As I pull open one set of curtains, I see a sight I have never noticed before from the neighbors at the bottom of the hill.  Their dog kennels have lights surrounding them, it seems like a floodlight to me.

Before this season, hubby and I got up early.  He would have appointments at the VA hospital and we would get up, knowing there was an hour and half drive ahead of us.  But, those times were different.  We were both up, getting ready, getting something prepared to eat along the way.  Neighbors homes were lit, and we could see them in a distance.   They were getting their days ready, school, work, appointments.   Today, there is a hush settled over the neighborhood.  I think I am the only one up and about.   I am about to leave for the grocery store.   I feel like a need a soundtrack to my life lately.  One of those soundtracks from a thriller.   As I wrote that last sentence, I could hear in my mind the ‘duh, duh, duuuhhhh…’  an ominous tone preparing the audience for an uncertain next scene.

Traffic going to the store was non-existent.  Fortunately deer stayed in the woods and didn’t venture out to be seen either.  Darkness was just starting to surrender it’s hold as I pulled into the parking lot of the store.   It too, was dark inside.  Three other vehicles sit outside, most likely staff for the store.   I watched as another vehicle pulled in and waited.  Slowly, the seniors show up.

There were about a dozen people in the store, not counting employees.  It was somber and no one really chatted like normal.   I spoke to everyone I saw and thanked the employees for all they were doing during this time.

Again, I was lucky enough to pick up what I needed and this time, I know I won’t be back for a while.  Once the fresh vegetables are gone, we will use our frozen, the same with the fresh fruit.   Hubby and I will do our part, we will stay separate and we will pray for our city, country, our world, friends and most of all, our family.

It was an adventure to be out so early this morning.  The world was quiet.  It was still.  It was a time to listen and hear what we normally block out with noise.  Thanks for stopping by today, stay healthy and safe and wash your hands!   Cathi (DAF)

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