Editor’s note: Karen Harris Tully is a writer who lives in Raymond and has agreed to keep a journal to share with Daily World readers during the odd and uncertain time we’re all navigating.

Dear Journal:

I am the Queen of “No.” That’s what this summer feels like. No, we can’t do swim lessons at the pool because of Coronavirus. No, we can’t go eat at a restaurant (but we can get takeout!) No, we can’t go over to your friend’s house, or do indoor art lessons with 10 kids, or play on the playground equipment, or, or, or … These are all things I’ve second guessed myself on over and over. It’s exhausting.

“But why can’t we?” my little voice whispers. “Other people are doing it.”

Yeah, and other people are going to Sturgis this summer too. I grumble a word I’m trying not to teach the kids.

The state re-opening signaled it’s safe, but infection rates are climbing. It was really about the economy. So, each family has to judge for themselves, and what risks they’re willing to accept. I’ve seriously thought about taking a bleach rag to the playground, btw. You know that stuff never gets cleaned.

At least I’m not alone in our house. At least my husband, Mike, is King to my Queen. And Mike’s parents, who we see a lot and are the last people I want to get sick, are Court Advisors in the Land of No.

I wanted to do all these things with the kids, or actually go out with my husband on our anniversary. Instead we got takeout and watched a movie. (“Harriet.” It was really good and the end left me cheering.) But there are reasons for our decisions. I don’t want to give the hard-working people at the pool crap, but I just can’t see a swim instructor holding my kids a foot away for lessons with no masks. (I also know swimming with a mask is probably impossible.) That seems like a good way for a family to inadvertently spread it to the instructor, who then unknowingly spreads it to 10 other families. I wanted the kids to have lessons this summer, but no. Mike and I will have to do the lessons ourselves, when the pool isn’t crowded. Brrr.

So instead, we have bike rides, though I seriously haven’t ridden a bike in years (I only fell off once.) Fishing is not my favorite either, but my son is loving it, so yes to that. Slime, art, and science projects, yes, and playing in the water at home. Playing with the neighbor kids outside, yes, and backyard camping too. Golf, baking, and berry picking. I’m running out of ideas for outdoor and home activities. Are there tennis courts nearby? I’m looking for ways to say yes.

Song of the day: The Safety Dance/ Men Without Hats

Karen Harris Tully is a novelist living in Raymond with her husband and two small children. She writes sci-fi/fantasy for teens and adults and can be found at www.karenharristully.com.