As I went to write my planned blog for the week, I realized I had no words in this new Coronavirus world. In a span of 72 hours, my immediate world, like most of yours, has drastically changed. My daughter now has no school until April 5, my husband’s office is closed and as someone who runs a business from home, it’s a new, uncharted frontier. Let alone the bigger picture – no sports, no Broadway shows, no church and in Dallas, no public gatherings. And working with international companies (for the paying gig), there is no way for executives to move freely among our global offices with the travel ban in effect.
A New Coronavirus World
No words. How do we now navigate this new uncharted world?
Aramara Restaurant Tonight at the Four Seasons
But, as I write this, I am on a plane with my family to our annual family Spring Break trip to Punta Mita, Mexico where we have spent the last 15 year at the Four Seasons. We’ve done the same trip at the same time with many of the same families who come from different places in North America. It is a trip that brings us joy and with the low rate of Coronavirus in Mexico, I feel my moral compass is directed on the right path. It’s a personal decision. I respect yours, please respect mine.
When we get home (and I think we will), we will be okay (as long as we don’t kill each other in the process of being in close quarters) But what about those who don’t have a contingency? Town and Country Magazine had a great article yesterday on how you can help .
Locally, your wine stores and wine bars are here to make your new world a little easier. Many of them have curbside pickup. Support them. Consider exploring European wines, especially Italian wines. In the last week, I have seen pleas from small Italian wineries with sales down over 50 percent with completely closed borders. That was a 1-2 punch after the Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on many European wines in October 2019.
Think about your local restaurants. If you aren’t comfortable going out, many of them deliver. Otherwise you may find your favorite places are no longer around when you are ready to venture out again. And tip well – that is how many of these employees make most of their money.
Do you have a favorite wine from that small, boutique winery? Check out their website. Chances are they are having a sale or reduced their shipping fees and would love to hear from you.
It’s a crazy new world and I know that the wine and restaurant communities always come together. I wish I had some sage advice other than: hug your family, eat (or order in) from local restaurants, drink small producer wine and exhale. Cheers to a lot of family or time with those you love! And, remember to exhale.
