On Tuesday, May 19th, in our little corner of the world, we saw the beginning crowds in downtown Petoskey. The day began with a rotating cloud bank overhead, some light rain, and then a swirling breeze ending in a beautiful warm spring day. People entered Symons General Store happy to be back at their summer homes and vacation hangouts. Purchases for what seemed to be celebratory dinners were made, and with the restaurant opening Friday, reservations were mounting – even as the capacity allowed, dwindled. It is difficult to calculate affect behind a mask, but upon closer scrutiny, watching eyes and foreheads, one can ascertain moods and concerns. Yesterday, eyes were bright and smiles behind masks were obvious. I must say, so far customers and regular patrons are obliging to the rules of safety. There have been the smattering of complaints heard emanating from other venues in the city, but for the most past, so far so good. My concentration in the wine cellar has me dreaming of creative ways to use the space, and in many ways, my circadian rhythms have adapted to the same vicissitudes in mood I encounter when writing a novel. In other words, my sleep patterns fluctuate on creative spirals and I sleep when I can. No, this is not a bipolar attack, but simply the flow of brain chemicals dancing through the synapses knowing all will eventually slow down and return to normal. I’ll let you know if delusions and hallucinations conspire to climb the mountain of diagnostic nomenclature. I’m in the same celebratory mood as the customers in the store. I am also comfortable with my precautions of masking and handwashing. I believe normal will occur at a pace of comfort, or at least I hope, and we don’t become overwhelmed with that comfort. Vigilance is key – yes, I’m sounding the same alarms I have for the last week. The evidence of my own comfort was solidified by the evening routine. Our new Adirondack chairs arrived, and once home from office and wine cellar, Christine and I cocktailed outdoors watching the town settle into the evening. We barbequed steaks, drank wine, and played cribbage until the stars began to poke through the night sky. The first real day of relaxing in a region beginning to test the waters of health and wellness had ended. We’ll see.