# 24 - Don't Like Mask Confusion

​Should we wear masks?

Two days ago, our son called from California and offered to send us some masks. He and his wife had bought some in the fall, when the California fires made the air dangerous.

It was a sweet thought, but 2 days ago I didn't think we needed them. In fact we were  discouraged from buying masks, since the supply was needed for healthcare workers. Most of the focus was still on hand washing and social distancing.

Mask Making

Scott was right. Yesterday, CDC recommended people begin covering faces, in public. They are asking people to make their own or use scarves or bandanas. I learned the other day that the bandana thing is a mess. Today I decided to think about sewing.

My sister-in-law in Oregon, sent me instructions for making masks. The ones she made look impressive. But everything Kate sews is impressive. I stressed over the directions and put the task aside. 

Generous Neighbor

An hour later I got a text from my neighbor, who happens to be a quilter. She was making masks and wanted to know if Don and I wanted one.

A while later, she was on my sidewalk, wearing her own mask. She stood about 10 feet away and held up some fabric options. She returned later and left these beautiful, pleated masks on the porch. 

I am so touched, by how others are reaching out in whatever ways they can. I'm grateful and relieved to have masks at the ready and Becky seemed genuinely happy to be able to offer her services. I think we all want to find a way to help. With a few exceptions, most of us care about others right now. It's also healthy, to feel useful!  Now I need to find a way to pay it forward.