The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging in many ways, particularly when it comes to social connections. While I don’t have an extensive circle of friends, the ones I do cherish are sorely missed, especially the face-to-face interactions that have been replaced with screens. Inspired by my sister-in-law’s practice of connecting with my in-laws and her children throughout the pandemic, I decided to embrace the concept of “yard gatherings.”
With the recent lifting of the stay-at-home order by my state’s governor—a decision I view as questionable at best—I now have the opportunity to welcome visitors into my yard. I know this might sound strange, but hear me out.
What Exactly Are ‘Yard Gatherings’?
Yard gatherings, a term that may evoke a quirky image, involve people coming together outside while adhering to social distancing protocols. The idea is to maintain a safe distance, ideally over ten feet, in a well-ventilated outdoor setting, in order to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
The motivation for these gatherings stems from a sense of utter isolation. My interactions have been limited to a few key individuals: my children, my partner, and my parents, who provide invaluable support. While I do express my gratitude loudly to delivery personnel—who are the unsung heroes keeping our society afloat—these fleeting exchanges hardly qualify as genuine conversation.
The longing for human connection has led to a creative solution. When my friend Alex offered to visit and chat from the yard, we quickly arranged outdoor seating, opened the gate for contactless entry, and eagerly awaited his arrival. The moment he walked into our space felt emotional; it was a heartwarming reminder of the joy of in-person interaction.
Why We Consider This Safe
We approach these gatherings as though we’re in a high-risk health zone, treating ourselves as if we might be asymptomatic carriers of the virus. This dual mindset helps us prioritize safety for everyone involved. We’ve established a “Safety Zone,” a designated area with chairs and a table that sits well beyond the CDC’s recommended distance of six feet.
Extensive research informs our approach to yard gatherings. According to Paul Dabisch, a research scientist at the Department of Homeland Security, factors such as sunlight, heat, and humidity significantly reduce the virus’s longevity. A study from China indicated that outdoor transmission rates were remarkably low, while Dr. Marty Makary from Johns Hopkins University has noted that outdoor interactions with appropriate distancing pose a lower risk than indoor ones.
Despite this knowledge, we still exercise caution, acknowledging that we must remain vigilant.
Making Yard Gatherings Work
These gatherings often require us to raise our voices, but we follow CDC guidelines and ensure that masks are worn, and a safe distance is maintained. When a friend arrives, time seems to stand still. Regardless of our tasks or responsibilities, the presence of a guest transforms the atmosphere, encouraging a slower pace reminiscent of Mediterranean culture.
Conversations become richer and more meaningful, reminding us of the value of human connection. As we engage in discussions—whether about movies or local news—it feels like a cherished escape from the chaos of life.
The refreshing nature of these interactions uplifts our spirits and adds a layer of sanity to our lives during these tumultuous times. Although we might inadvertently attract the curiosity of neighbors with our animated debates, the benefits far outweigh any potential embarrassment.
In these difficult times, yard gatherings serve as a vital connection to the outside world, a saving grace we can all appreciate.
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Summary:
Yard gatherings have become a crucial way to maintain social connections during the COVID-19 pandemic while prioritizing safety. These outdoor visits allow friends to reconnect, share experiences, and enjoy meaningful conversations—all while adhering to social distancing guidelines. As we navigate these challenging times, such gatherings remind us of the importance of human interaction in maintaining our sanity and well-being.
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