#TheFrontStepsProject

It was my pleasure to take photos of my neighbors, Dan, Cheryl, Ashley, Robbie, and Ryan Hays!

It was so nice that they were conveniently across the street because when I first took their photo, the sun was so strong the kids could not help but squint! But I was lucky because I passed their house again when the lighting was Ideal and they were still dressed so nice and willing to retake their photo! I have known this beautiful family since Temple Beth Ami Nursery School, and was happy to take their photo for this project.

I asked Cheryl in she had anything personal she wanted to share and she said:

“It has been quite an adjustment having everyone working and going to school from home. After moving into our new home less than 18 months ago, we feel very fortunate that everyone has a computer or iPad on which to do their work, and a quiet space to themselves. The kids’ teachers have been working really hard to keep them engaged during this period of distance learning. As a family, one of the most difficult things to deal with has been managing the social needs of Teenagers. Zoom and Google Meet have been invaluable, not only for school but for all of us to keep up with our friends!

While family togetherness may be the norm for many families, Dan is normally a frequent traveler for work, spending around 100 nights a year away from home. Given this, we have actually had a lot more family meals and together time, which has been an unexpected bonus to the confinement. Long walks, bike rides, and the occasional drive in the nearby countryside have kept us sane in nice weather. Just sitting around watching grass grow really is boring, though watching the flowers bloom is a little more entertaining. We have also been fostering a second dog (not pictured) who has been able to really come out of her shell and gain confidence as a result of having so much interaction with the whole family.    

During this difficult time we have been fortunate to have regular deliveries of food and staples, including toilet paper, paper towels, eggs, and milk. Our oldest child also received his driver’s license before the Motor Vehicle Administration closed and we went under a stay-at-home order, so he has been more than happy to run any errands needed and pick up food! We actually feel better with him driving now, knowing that the roads are almost deserted. 

We are so thankful for all of the efforts of everyday heroes - from public safety and healthcare workers to truck drivers and those working to stock the shelves at local grocery stores.  And, our heart breaks for the significant challenges being faced by our many neighbors and friends who are small business owners and independent contractors. 

It was a real treat to have Erica take this photo because we still treasure the pre-school photos she took of our children many years ago!”

Thank you Cheryl for these beautiful and kind words and for participating in #TheFrontStepsProject