Montana this morning was blessed with a thick wet blanket of snow. The trees and bushes were coated, as if painted in the night with a big white brush. The beauty was enchanting. I went for my afternoon walk mid-morning, breathing in the refreshment, and found these spring buds topped off with snow frosting.

The current advice is that fresh air is an excellent, if not vital, addition to staying at home, however you can get it. Safe and distanced, of course. One article even suggested that if you couldn’t go out, for example in the cities, you could open the window and put a fan there blowing that air right into your house or apartment. That made me laugh a bit, picturing my New York City friends sitting there right next to the fire escape.

We also need fresh air in our hearts and minds. Sometimes I awaken and feel blessed and quiet and wondering what the day will bring (and occasionally what day is it, anyway?). Then I remember the reality of our collective situation and myself somewhat discouraged. I have to look for ways to refresh my thoughts and comfort my heart.

For me, beauty, creativity and communication are my best answers. Therefore, more blogs! I rejoice to see paper hearts decorating windows and doors all over the country. Each of us has a story to tell. And stories of love and care for one another are becoming headlines. Neighbors are being neighbors. People are getting quite creative in all kinds of ways, from curbside pickup to virtual classrooms and concerts. I do not mean to diminish the tragedies taking place but I have to look for reasons to remain joyful and strong in the midst of it all.

I send love and blessings and would love to hear your stay-at-home story.