It's been almost six weeks since we began our coronavirus confinement here in Morocco. The government's original response to the crisis was to restrict all flights in and out of the country until April 20th. Several days ago, those restrictions were extended through May 20th at which time the situation will be reevaluated. Shortly after air travel was banned, strict stay-at-home guidelines were issued and movement within the country was halted with the cessation of trains, busses, etc. Each household has been issued a permit which allows one person to leave home only for grocery shopping, pharmacy needs and medical emergencies.
Permits are checked by the police at intersections throughout Marrakech and I assume in places out on the highways. Last week they even started checking them at the entrance to the grocery store! Masks are required when shopping, and there is someone to spray your hands with disinfectant before you enter the store. So going out is pretty intense!
That being said, staying home is lovely. Every morning I walk the permimeter of the golf course and enjoy glorious landscapes and soft breezes. The weather has been heavenly!
I've planted flowers in my little garden and enjoy tending them as I try to figure out how to keep them alive in this new soil and climate.
I finally have enough time to quilt! (Hope I don't run out of fabric...)
(My attempt to mimic Moroccan tile.)
With family members also at home, we have more opportunities to talk with loved ones.
That cute kitty is 6-year old Lily. She is a whiz with Messenger!
17-month old Rosie loves talking to her Papa!
So, despite all the tumult and hardship in the world, life is oh-so-good here for us in Marrakech. We think about trying to get home once in awhile, but if we did find a way to leave we're not sure when we could come back. The US embassy has organized several evacuation flights for stranded tourists since flights were discontinued mid-March. We get emails about these flights, always with the warning that this may be the last chance to leave until things get back to normal and airports are open again. But we never feel right about leaving. I'm grateful for the quiet and peace we feel about staying.
Today is the first day of Ramadan. I have so much respect for those who observe this very demanding pillar of Islam. I takes so much self-discipline. This month-long period of fasting and prayer is going to be very different this year, as an important part of the tradition is to break the fast each evening in large gatherings of family and friends. This year that won't be possible. I love this video which talks about what Ramadan will look like this year.
In celebration of Ramadan, our next-door neighbors (who we know only slightly as they live in Belgium and are just here in their vacation home because of the pandemic) brought over some traditional Moroccan Ramandan dishes yesterday. We are blessed to be surrounded by such kind and generous people.
I wish I could share all of this quiet, peace and beauty with each of you and all those who are suffering or confined in challenging circumstances. Sending all my love to family and friends with best wishes for your peace and well-being. Stay well!
Sue
