Dear Finley,

We have been “working” at home together for a week. I started at home on Monday, March 16th, 2020 because I had cold symptoms and then work mandated remote work beginning Wednesday (the 18th) due to the COVID-19 outbreak of 2020. That means….we’ve been working and spending our days together.

Work to me means doing as much as I can remotely, which includes: conference calls; multi-tasking; analysis; correspondence; spending way more time on the phone than I feel comfortable; and grabbing as much time as possible to dedicate to work….while also being a full-time stay at home Mom so that we can protect our precious caregiver family (Grandparents, Aunt Trish).

Working to you means: playing, playing, playing. You allow for snack breaks, craft time (most commonly play-doh related), face-time with grandparents, multiple snacks and meal times, learning “ABC Mouse” on the laptop after much deliberation and angst- but also knowing Momma needs some times when you are distracted, so that Momma can have those work related calls.

Momma’s coworkers are learning of you. They can hear you in the background as we discuss compensation of elected officials, or fascinating work done for the county to ensure community members- like us- live safe, healthy, and prosperous lives. You had your first video conference work call yesterday and you smiled big for the camera. All my coworkers showed their pets to you in response. You and me kid- side by side, throughout the long days.

I want you to know one day that you are what gets me through the long days, and feel healthy and hopeful. You allow me to be a Mom, and remain focused on what matters- providing security for you. So I work during the days when you let me, and play with you when you say there has been enough work.

Everyone we love and know is safe thus far. And we stay in the house to protect them, and ourselves. So we continue, and work together from home.

Love, Momma