A few weeks ago, I went shopping at Caputo’s Bakery Shop, and Court Street Pastry in my old Carroll Gardens neighbourhood. During these hard times, there is nothing like ciabatta bread and sweet delicious pastries to bite back on that locked-in feeling. Thankfully, bakeries are considered essential businesses.

Stopping in at Caputo’s first, I recognized a neighbour, Lorraine, who had lived across the street from me when I lived above Court Street Pastry. These days you can’t tell who’s who with everyone wearing masks. After I noticed her distinct bright red hair and then her strong Brooklyn accent, I shouted hello.