Lest We Forget - Some Memories of Spring 2020

Our family is on day 40 of social isolation. Here are some of the things that we should remember about this world-wide pandemic.

- Texas gas prices average $1.51/gallon, however nobody needs gas because there's no place to go.

- Bell County schools have been closed since March 17 and are teaching remotely online. By order of the Governor, this will continue for the rest of the school year for all of Texas. Most states are issuing similar orders.

- People must maintain 6 foot distance from anyone not in their immediate household (commonly known as social-distancing).

- Essential stores, including grocery stores, are limiting the number of people allowed inside, and social distancing is enforced. These stores are closing early to disinfect everything each night.

- All "non-essential" retail business were closed until April 24, when retail stores were allowed to begin offering curbside and home delivery, but no in-store shopping.

- Restaurants open only for home delivery or curbside pick-up.

- Texas State Parks were closed until April 20, when the Governor re-opened them for day-use only. Social distancing required.

- Sports competitions were canceled or postponed, including: 2020 Summer Olympics (Tokyo); NASCAR races; Major League baseball; NBA basketball; NCAA spring sports, including baseball, softball and lacrosse; NFL Draft held virtually, not in person; Golf - the Masters, PGA Championship and Sr. PGA Championship; Formula 1 racing; NHL Hockey; Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes; the Boston Marathon; Wimbledon.

- Festivals and entertainment events have been canceled, including Austin's South by Southwest (SXSW) - a huge impact to the city of Austin and Texas as a whole.

- Many weddings, family celebrations and birthdays have been canceled or postponed. Funerals limited to family graveside services.

- People are doing drive-by parades to cheer friends and family; and grandparents visit grandkids through a video screen or, if they visit in person, through a closed window. Hugs and kisses not shared.

- The church buildings are closed; many holding worship services on-line.

- People are wearing masks; some are making their own masks for sale or donation to medical facilities. News reports say there is a shortage of masks, gloves and ventilators in hospitals.

- Toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, isopropyl alcohol and anything Lysol or Clorox is in short supply and limited per person , if you can even find them.

- Countries around the world are adopting stringent travel measures, including full lockdowns, shutting down airports, imposing travel restrictions and completely sealing their borders. Airports are empty. The tourism industry is devastated.

- The world is experiencing a severe economic impact from the coronavirus and the shutting down of businesses.

- The US government issued stimulus payments, automatic for most taxpayers, in the amount of $1200 per adult and $600 per child.