Staying creative and connected while apart

Publisher's Corner

Posted

For many, including myself, Easter weekend was a palpable reminder of the value of family time.

I know how disappointed I was that my family could not get together. My daughter and son-in-law recently moved back to Washington with my 3-year-old grandson to be closer to family. This would have been his first family gathering for Easter and an opportunity to participate in the Easter egg hunt with all his cousins.

But because of the state of the world around us, that did not happen. I know there are many families out there that experienced something similar. The holidays are typically a time to gather around the table and express appreciation for the ones beside you. This year, we had to do that from afar.

We often take for granted everyday opportunities available to us. For some, that’s family gatherings. For others, it’s a steady paycheck. It could be a warm meal, a vehicle to drive or the awe-inspiring beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. We are so busy running our lives that we often forget to stop and smell the roses. Our current situation should remind us that life is too precious not to allow ourselves the luxury of time.

I know that might be easier said than done right now. I can only imagine the anxiety of parents trying to work from home while keeping their children educated. We want to do what we can to help, and that’s why we created a children’s page in The Leader where kids can learn more about their local surroundings, offer parent resources and give kids something fun to do each week. The page is officially called “Little Readers, Future Leaders.”

It’s been amazing to see area businesses tweak their offerings to operate in an unfamiliar environment. We are charting a new course, and they are leading the way. I’m also heartened by the creativity and resourcefulness of individuals in the community who have jumped in to help keep our community safe. Thank you.

I also wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to the many people who have called or emailed to welcome me to this wonderful community. I really do look forward to the day where I can walk out the front door of my office and visit the many shops and restaurants along main street.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at detchey@ptleader.com or give me a call 360-385-2900.

(Donna Etchey is the publisher of the Port Townsend and Jefferson County Leader.)