Labor Day Weekend has always been an annual pivotal marker. It delineates summer’s end, signals a return to school, and heralds shorter days and cooler nights. It reminds us we must return to the business of work… tomorrow. Traditionally, this weekend is a national tribute dedicated to the American worker’s achievements. We honor everyday men and women whose daily contributions enrich everyone’s lives. This Labor Day promises to be a tremendous departure from past festivities.

The traditional last splash at the water park isn’t possible when the attraction never opened. The backyard BBQ with lawn games, friends, and family will undergo significant changes. The new guest list is limited to your bubble of safety. Required face masks make eating corn on the cob more awkward than usual, and you eye your favorite sloppy sauce with suspicion rather than lip-smacking anticipation. Villages, towns, and municipalities everywhere have canceled the annual parades, concerts, and fireworks.

While the activities may be different, I have already noticed an uptick in traffic as people hop in their cars with plans to get out of town. Friends are opting to travel in RVs or to rent a place at the edge of a secluded lake. As a pre-COVID introvert, I try to avoid crowds. I’ve stocked the kitchen pantry. The weathermen predict pleasant weather, and I plan to work on getting some writing accomplished.

What are your new Labor Day plans?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer