Documenting Strange Times

I've seen many, many posts about having students document their life now to create primary sources about history in the making. As a parent I find my current life to be so utterly boring I can't imagine writing about it. I did, however, enjoy walking to our local coffee shop today and collecting primary sources along the way.

Let me tell you about ordering coffee in the age of Coronavirus.
First, why would I go to a coffee shop you may ask. Our governor announced today that there will be a "safer at  home" order issued for a week. This basically is shelter in place and only go out for groceries and essential work. I opened my last half pound of coffee today. Good coffee is essential to my well being. Therefore, our expedition.

I also have been extremely conflicted about not buying from local restaurants. I know they need it but I did a really good job of stocking my fridge. I don't want food to spoil. Also, knowing that my husband's work might be halted for a week shifts me into frugality mode. Buying 2 pounds of coffee, etc. made me feel like I was contributing to a small business.

Anyways - the shop. 
All cafe tables are shoved to the side. The only tables out have coffee and tea for sale. Lots of room for customers to spread themselves out. At 12:45 on a Monday, there were 6-7 people at all times and just before I left they were at capacity - 10 people. This meant no one could come in until I left.

It was weird. People were polite but there was an odd tension in the air. Uneasiness. A few customers asked the cashier if they were an "essential business" and if they would have to close for the next week. She was uncertain.

Then we walked home in the sunshine. So many people out walking their dogs! So many happy dogs. (Our dog is unsocial, as are we, so we crossed the street to avoid all other dogs but how could they not be happy to have their owners home and walking them in the middle of the day!)

Stay safe. Be well.