Pandemic Update April 4

Okay, here we go with the weekly coronavirus update. Obviously, this is still a big deal. However, at some point, these updates may have to be bi-weekly, because at current rate, the quarantine and level of disruption is going to last a long time.

A couple of updates:

There are some signs of progress, but right now it is hard to know. Some estimates are that the peak will be April 15 with improvement after that. There are more than 300,000 cases in the United States. Utah has surpassed 1,000 cases with more than 20,000 people tested. The governor has not issued a Shelter in Place order, but has issued a campaign called, "Stay Safe, Stay Home." 

My work has had a lot going on as well. With the stimulus package passed by congress, it includes loans that can be forgiven to small businesses. We have many clients drastically affected by a reduction in revenue who are hoping they will be able to get those funds. We also had a firmwide Zoom meeting where our CEO Dave Stende spoke to the firm. He said that they do not anticipate firmwide layoffs at this stage. They have cancelled all travel for trainings which will be done remotely this year and a few other cost saving measures. 

For perspective, over the past 2 weeks, 10 million workers have applied for unemployment which is vastly more than ever in history. 

On the family level, we had a pretty good week. I had a very busy work week trying to get in 55 hours before Saturday so that I only had to work a few hours Saturday morning before General Conference. 

Every couple days I will end up hearing Lucy wake up from her nap and end up grabbing her before Shantel hears her. After her nap she is usually very happy to sit on my lap or on the floor by my feet. I actually love having her in with me for a few minutes each day. 

We were headed off for a walk when a friend came by to drop off some treats, she quickly handed them to us (after disinfecting the plate and then we had a conversation at appropriate social distance. 

Here is a quick shot of our March/April calendar.

Last thing: During the Saturday evening session of conference (for all members 8 and older) President Nelson talked about the Coronavirus and mentioned the worldwide fast we had last week and he invited us for another worldwide fast this Friday which is Good Friday. I will be honest, I have felt some hopelessness with the situation. It is hard for me to see how the current quarantine protocols can change until we have a vaccine, and that at best is 12-18 months away. Thinking through that can lead to despair. I am grateful for another opportunity to fast and pray for God's help. He is the way through this trial, if we can have enough faith to rely wholly on him.