Letter To Santa

Dear Santa,

In my entire life I don’t think I’ve ever written you a letter, but this year is special and different and my list is very long. I don’t know if I’ve been particularly bad or good but that’s okay because most of this stuff is not for me anyway. So here goes:

1. Santa, the hospitals are crowded and some people have to postpone the treatments they need because there are so many COVID patients so could you heal the sick? Hurry up that vaccine and make this nasty virus go away!

2. Also, leave something very special for all of the medical people who interact every day with the sick. They don’t need courage because they are some of the bravest people I know, but maybe you could give them some rest and peace.

3. And Santa, everybody that has to do public work, give them safety and good health. Cover them with a magic shield that will protect them from harm. 

4. Santa, I’m concerned about all the teachers, parents and kids out there who are trying to figure out how to do education. Could you give them lots of energy and patience? Give them a long restful Christmas break. May they enter the new year with a new desire to learn/teach and get all the tools they need to be successful. 

5. This is a tough one, Santa, but could you leave lots of peace and comfort to all the families who lost loved ones this year? Christmases will never be the same for them. They need to know that they have not been forgotten. 

6.  Also, give lots of love to all the families who will be doing Christmas a little differently this year. So many people will be alone. So many traditions will be broken. But Santa, remind them all that they are loved and help them look forward to better days. 

7. And most importantly, could you give the whole world hope and joy and cheer?  So many people are angry and argumentative. So many people are afraid. As the old song says, “we need a little Christmas right now”! So Santa, can you help?  Could you tell people to stop arguing, to just get along, and pray for each other? When you fly that sleigh through the sky could you just spread some empathy and compassion all over the entire world?

 I know it’s a long list, Santa, but it’s really important, so maybe if you ask Him and I ask Him, the Big Guy upstairs will help us out. I’ll be sure to pray real hard.  Thanks for listening and be safe out there on Christmas Eve. 

WEAR YOUR MASK!

Love,

Linda

Gatlinburg Corona

Greetings from my isolation in the Mountains!  

Yep, we’re in that “vulnerable age group” so we are taking the necessary precautions, not out of fear, but compassion and common sense.  My preparations included stocking (but not hoarding) my pantry with a good supply of canned goods. My freezer is full of casseroles and meat. We definitely won’t starve during the next few weeks. 

How do I feel about the situation?

Personally speaking this whole thing hasn’t changed my lifestyle that much. I’m an old home body who doesn’t mind solitude. I’ve always said “a good day is one where I don’t have to go anywhere or do anything!” I guess that’s about to be put to the test.  I do miss sports and close contact with my kids, but I’ve got yarn, lots of books and WiFi. And if I start feeling cooped up there’s over 900 miles of trails to explore! I’m isolated but, let’s face it, the weather is good and the view is not bad!

What I’m really concerned about is:

-Corona Patients. Get well soon!

-People who are on the “front lines” and are testing or treating confirmed patients. Doctors, nurses, paramedics, and all other medical personnel. Stay healthy!

-Large businesses and corporations who are tasked with trying to make the tough decisions concerning the safety of their employees and customers. 

-The workforce from managers to janitors!  Bless you and stay safe!

-Small business owners and employees who may lose their only source of income. We’ve all got to find ways to help them get through this tough time!

-Young working parents trying to figure out childcare. 

-Parents who are trying to educate/entertain their kids at home. There are lots of resources online, but let’s face it, kids like to be with their friends. 

-Kids, Youth, Teenagers and college students. Bless their hearts!  I know they must be bored out of their minds! And some are so disappointed about spring break plans, proms, graduations, tournaments, and all manner of things being cancelled. I’ve got no answers for you except maybe this can be a time for families to slow down and play games or just talk. Life after Corona will be even sweeter. Keep the faith. 

-Friends and family, especially those in the Davidson County area. My goodness! A tornado and now Corona! My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please take this thing seriously and stay safe!

Whew!  That’s a lot to be concerned about but my life is good. I’ve got nothing to complain about and my Mama taught me to always put yourself in the other guy’s place. Think about what they’re going through, how they feel, and how can I help? My heart goes out to you. Please accept this great big virtual hug!

How are things in Gatlinburg?

To my knowledge, there has only been one confirmed case in Sevier County.  I watch those numbers daily and hope that they stay low. At the same time, I’m being realistic. This is a tourist town and the tourists have not stayed away. It’s Spring Break and I think a lot of people who had Disney plans decided to go to the mountains instead.  Most of the rental cabins around me are occupied. The crowds in town are thinner for this time of year,  but there’s still a good number of people wandering around. I’m not sure how they’re  occupying their time. Dollywood is closed. All dinner theaters are closed. Sky Bridge is closed. Several of the restaurants are closed or doing drive through only. I’m told that Tanger has about 70% of their stores open. I expect more and more places will be closing as time passes. Of course if you love the great outdoors, there’s always hiking! What a great “social distancing” way to see some beautiful wonders of nature!

You may have heard or read that the park is closed, but read closely. The visitors centers are closed and the large planned events such as The Wildflower Pilgrimage are canceled, but the trails are open and spring is almost here!

About the grocery store situation

The last time I went to the grocery store (Saturday) there was plenty of food. There was no hand sanitizer or wipes and they were rationing toilet paper and cleaning supplies, but there was plenty of everything else. I’m not sure if/when it will get crazy but I’m going to stay away as long as possible and let the “crazies” fight over my share! A brand new Food City opened in Pigeon Forge today (we stopped for gas) and the parking lot was full so maybe everybody can get what they need. If I get tired of my own cooking, we’ll try to support the local eateries by doing some take out or drive through. And yes, I know how to do Grub Hub and Door Dash!

Well that’s about it from the mountains. I leave you with this:

Be kind to your friends and coworkers. Check on your neighbors. Be patient with your kids. Smile. Breathe. Pray. Count your blessings. Wash your hands and keep your distance!

Peace