Let’s face it. Pandemics are scary, inconvenient, boring, dangerous, annoying, expensive, and just plain awful. In comparison to most people, I’m coming out relatively unscathed—so far. My brother and his large family all had COVID, but all have recovered. My son has been sick for a couple weeks, but also seems to be getting better. My job allows me to work from home (just as well, since haircuts are no longer possible), and I do have a home. I am one of the privileged, and I am grateful.

However, for me, this pandemic has had an unexpected benefit. My mother has been staying with me for the past five months—meaning that we can spend much time together and work on the book about her childhood in the occupied Netherlands. It has been amazing to get to know this woman who gave me life, raised me, and taught me to love. As for the book, it’s nearly ready, so pre-order while you can!