It was on some random playlist one afternoon and it captured my 3 year old's attention. The next day, while driving and listening to other music, she requested "Blue Skies?", and after many minutes and several suggestions and selections, and further prompting and investigation, I finally realized what song she wanted, and put on "I Can See Clearly" by Johnny Nash. She looked out the window, with a small smile and silent approval.

It’s been on regular rotation these days, her enthusiasm now greater with the recent storm breaks. I confess that I found the song rather hokey when I was younger (I think it was used in a Claritin ad). Now I'm struck by the purity of his tenor. The honesty in his delivery. Our favorite part is the intensity of the bridge, an emotional lift of Revelations like magnitude: "Look all around!.... There’s nothing but blue skies!... Look straight ahead! Nothing but blue skies....". Each time, right before he cries out, I press all the buttons to roll down our windows simultaneously and open the sunroof in our CR-V. The wind rushes in. A quiet jubilation on her face, chin up and eyes closed and her hair storming and streaming all around. It’s my favorite moment. And I think hers too.

It came on when I was driving alone yesterday and, perhaps out of habit, I rolled down all the windows at that same bridge, even though it was just me. Emotions took over and I burst out crying, just for a moment. The song picks back up and wastes little time choosing to be cheerful again.

Yesterday, a customer picked up her wine at the door. "How are you all doing? You guys are gonna make it, right?" she asked. And then quickly added: "I spread the word. I tell everyone I know!". I thanked her for her support. "That's so kind of you", I said. "No no!" she laughed... "it’s very selfish of me. I need you guys to stick around!"


We'd like to thank all of you who've helped us through this storm. We hope we've been here for you too. And a special thank you to all of you who have spread the word. For all of you who continue to spread the warmth. With all the obstacles in the way, and when all the news and talk is of spread and transmission, thank you to all who still choose to spread light, kindness and consideration. We can all transmit joy. We can transmit hope. Let jubilation go viral. 


Looking forward to a bright, bright day ahead.

Daniel