COVID-19 has turned our world upside down, and one of the hardest parts has been the inability to connect with friends. While I don’t have an extensive circle, the few friends I cherish mean the world to me, and I long for those in-person interactions that a screen simply cannot replace. That’s when I thought of trying something my brother-in-law and sister have been doing with their family since the pandemic began: yard visiting.
With the lifting of the stay-at-home order by my state, albeit a decision fraught with uncertainty, we’ve opened our yard to visitors. I know, it sounds absurd, but hear me out!
What Exactly Is ‘Yard Visiting’?
Yard visiting, which may sound like a quirky Southern tradition, involves friends gathering in your yard while maintaining social distance, typically more than six feet apart, to minimize the risk of virus transmission.
Our motivation for yard visiting comes from the overwhelming isolation we’ve been experiencing. The only people I interact with face-to-face are my family members—the ones I gave life to and the one who gave life to me. I do occasionally shout heartfelt thanks to delivery drivers, who are keeping our society functioning, but let’s be honest: a loud “thank you” doesn’t quite count as a genuine conversation.
We are all yearning for human connection. So, when my friend Mark offered to come over and chat from a distance, we quickly set up some lawn chairs, opened the gate for a touchless entry, and anxiously awaited his arrival. I nearly teared up when he walked into the yard and settled between the flower beds.
Why We Believe This Is Safe
We approach this situation as if we’re in a CDC Level 5 Hot Zone. In other words, we act as though we might be asymptomatic carriers while also believing we must be protected. Much like Schrödinger’s cat, which is both alive and dead until observed, we navigate this dual reality of sickness and health, ensuring both host and guest remain safe.
To achieve this, we ensure that yard visits occur in bright sunlight, with a minimum distance of ten feet. Our designated gathering spot, a set of metal chairs around a table, is carefully arranged to keep guests well beyond the CDC’s recommended six feet. We’ve done our research on how the virus spreads and how to make yard visiting safer. According to Paul Dabisch, a senior research scientist, sunlight and humidity significantly reduce the virus’s survival rate. A recent study from China indicated that only two out of over a thousand confirmed cases were transmitted outdoors.
Of course, we’re still cautious, taking all recommended precautions, including wearing masks and maintaining distance.
Making Yard Visits Enjoyable
When we have visitors, time seems to stand still. Despite our busy lives, everything else fades into the background. There’s something profoundly rewarding about sharing space with someone, even from a distance. It feels like a Mediterranean gathering, where we savor the moment and truly appreciate each other’s company. The refreshment we feel after these visits is palpable—our spirits are lifted, and our sanity is preserved.
Sure, our conversations may be a bit loud, with discussions about everything from the latest movies to local gossip, but that’s part of the joy. Yard visiting can be a wonderful respite during these challenging times, offering a connection that feels vital. And yes, your neighbors might overhear you passionately debating the best Star Wars series, but they likely already had their suspicions!
For more insights on navigating these times, check out this article on our blog here.
Summary
Yard visits have become a cherished way to maintain social connections amid the pandemic. By adhering to safety precautions and keeping a safe distance, these gatherings allow us to enjoy the company of friends while minimizing health risks. It’s a refreshing reminder of the importance of human interaction, even in unusual circumstances. For more information on home insemination and related topics, visit Make a Mom and UCSF Center, both excellent resources.