Dearest John - or Sjonnie as I liked to call you (:-)
This has been the craziest year, and maybe just as well that you were spared to experience it: The pandemic early in the year; pretty much as of March 1 businesses, schools, churches, etc. closed due to the start of social distancing, and self isolation. Too much to mention, but it certainly affected my anxiety level. In August many fires erupted throughout the State. Big Basin National Park nearly destroyed, yet Henry Cowell State Park was spared. The San Mateo coastal fires merged wth the Santa Cruz ones. Bill and Erika Coulter's home, along with many others, burned to the ground. I do not know whether Bill lost any guitars. Vickee Flynn and Gary, the Le Counts, both living in La Honda, had to evacuate but did not lose their homes. Len Shustek's vacation home in Pescadero came close to be lost, but the winds shifted. Enormous fires, once again in Napa County. Destruction left and right. Then the Creek fire east of Fresno, which to this date is still not 100% contained, but created havoc. All these fires caused very bad air for us. So another reason to self isolate. I had no idea I could miss you more than I already did :-( I so wished to share all this with you personally...Everyone is wearing masks, strictly for the corona virus. "Safety protections are everywhere, as the social distance is still in effect, and will be a long time yet, due to no vaccines yet. I can go on and on, but such won't cure anything, ha....And now we are in the midst of the presidential election season. Prez Trump is saying the worst things possible. VP Biden, his opponent, is being much more civil. He has chosen Kamala Harris to be his running mate. The rise of the Neo Nazis is very frightening,
to say the least....
Finally the greatest sad news: Pastor Matthew has accepted the invitation from the CRC in Whitinsville, MA. Last Sunday was his last day of preaching (via podcast!). The family will fly; household and cars will go by moving truck. Yes! including your Element (:-)...
I hear next to nothing from your family, but that goes both ways I am afraid. You know, I have little intelligent things to say....Besides, for the longest time it has been really hot in Sacramento.
But then, the young people all work from home, the kids were off school, and being taught on line. Many schools are back in session but with incredible rules and regulations.
I do hear from the Hatches, on a regular basis; also from Shelley Bice, whose husband Stephen used to represent his company at SHARE. Oh, the name escapes me. We met them in Providence, RI
The Computer History Museum is still closed, which is truly sad.
Well, my lovely man, and partner in crime, send me strength and encouragement so that I can and will move forward. At least I still meet (via zoom) with my wonderful grief counselor. I have also joined a small group (also via zoom). I don't think I would want to do that in person) of folks who have lost a loved one, whether spouse or child.
This is a long epistle, but you know me: what one says in three words I say in ten...
Oh, Schola continues to look to the future; most likely virtual concerts, which is being done more and more. Musicians world wide have been hurt the most, if you ask me (but nobody cares wat I think, haha). Unless they teach as well, they get by.
Love of my life, you are here even though I do not see you. I shall always love you and know that you loved me....I promise to work on my anxiety!
Your ever loving wife!