The last week has been interesting, to say the least. Those who have been reading my newsletter for any length of time know that I live in Wyoming and that I often go and visit my parents, who live in Arizona. I haven't been visiting them hardly at all over the past six months due to the coronavirus pandemic. You see, my father just turned 88 and I didn't want to bring any potential for exposure his way.

Well, on Tuesday he told me that he had received word that his COVID test had come back positive--he had caught the coronavirus all on his own. No idea where, and he wasn't exhibiting any symptoms that required hospitalization. (That's good news!) He did, however, need to self-quarantine for 14-20 days from the time of his first symptoms. Which means that he (and my mother) needed to hunker down all the way through August 20.

So, off I went to Arizona on Tuesday. Why? Because I know my father well enough that "staying in" is hard for him. If I was there to run their errands, bring them food, and see to their needs, it would be better for them. So, now I'm in my Arizona apartment, remaining socially distanced from them yet available and accessible for their needs. And I will be here for the next few weeks as things play out in their quarantine adventures. It is hard to be away from my family, but I cannot in good conscience turn my back on the needs of my parents. (Like I said, an interesting week.)

So, how has your week been? I hope it has been a good one for you and yours. I also hope that you find the tips in this week's newsletter to be helpful.