Zoo Lanterns

I never understood why my Mother had more children after my birth was such a spectacular success. This was mostly an intellectual curiosity as I welcomed and loved all six of my siblings. Mom explained that she just wanted playmates for me but I was almost 12 when my youngest sister was born. I suspect the master plan was more about babysitters for younger children than playmates for the oldest. Mom was shrewd and I have had many playmate adventures with each of my siblings over the years. That youngest sister engineered an outdoor Zoo Lantern walk through Woodland Park last Wednesday. The remaining four siblings had to mask up and social distance but we could actually see each other six feet apart. I think 17 of us participated in the outing, 18 if you count the lady my sister engaged in a long conversation because she thought the stranger was one of us. And for all we know, the mystery woman was a niece. It was hard to count noses with masks on while spaced out under umbrellas in the dark. The rain created puddles large enough to swim in but none of us thought to bring bathing suits. No hugs took place but we will probably remember this family Christmas party as fondly as any of the dry unmasked indoor ones with heat, food, and drink. I have never spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day alone. But this will be the second time I mark the holiday with just one other person. My brother Jamie kept me company one year when my wife was overseas. And this year, my wife and I expect to be alone for Pandemic Christmas. We may end up feeling guilty if we enjoy the experience too much!