The kids and I hang for a bit, thinking back on a weekend that we spent on a small ranch for July 4th weekend. We are continuing with our social distancing, which also allows us to get more quality time with the kids. I do miss being with other friends and family, but it is special to have the kids all to ourselves and maximize a time in their lives where they love being close to us. We played cards, swam all day, and we spent every meal together sharing appreciation and gratefulness that all of it is even possible.
We are aware it can't be that way for everyone, and that we should know how grateful we need to be for these moments. I got to sit in a small horse barn, watching Diego pet the 3 dogs for long stretches of time, watch Sofia swim stronger than ever and gain confidence in the pool. Coach him as he drove the Ranger with enthusiasm across the ranch, and also teach them both pool, and of course dual in ping pong with Diego who beat me every time. His great-grandfather would be proud.
In the mornings, I rode my mountain bike around the perimeter and put the dual shocks to work, and found a nice quiet spot in the middle of the large open land to pause, and sit quietly, making sure I recognize how special of a time it is, and how fortunate we are to even find moments like these.