My pledge to have at least one new experience every month during this year did NOT originally include living through a pandemic. But you know what they say about plans.
Since returning from the trip to Colorado in mid-March I have been stuck at home, working remotely and hoping for a swift end to the scourge of COVID-19. This has truly been an unprecedented time. The number of people who have lost their lives or had their health permanently damaged through this is truly tragic. The number of people who have had their lives turned upside down and had all they’ve worked for put in jeopardy and perhaps lost due to the economic consequences is equally tragic. No political commentary here, beyond wishing that everyone would stop with the blame game and just work to find solutions, and that’s true for people on the right and the left. I see very few pure motives among any of our national leaders, only struggles for power in one way or another. Not surprising, but disheartening.
On a slightly lighter note, other than attending to work as best I can from home, I’ve been resting and trying to get a few things done. Potted my herbs and a few other plants for the summer, cooked some very good meals, cleaned my living space a little, and put in quite a few miles on the exercise bike. The weather in Mississippi is usually the best in April and May, so I’ve also been able to get out and take a few nice, long walks as well. Have noticed many more people doing the same, taking advantage of time at home to slow down and spend some time together as families. Perhaps that’s the hidden gem in the midst of this. People realize they actually can cook, and spend time together, perhaps even have conversations outside of what they can find on a computer program or video game. I’ve also had video chats with a few friends and had a great time! We’ve all vowed to do it more often, but we’ll see how quickly we get back into our routines when this is all over. I hope we all let ourselves relax a little on the back side.
Of course, I’ve also spent a fair amount of time binge-watching various programs and playing ridiculous games on Facebook, also working on a few craft projects. Finally had to succumb to buying a pair of reading glasses to help with the cross-stitch. They’re the weakest glasses available, but still a little too strong so I can’t wear them for long. But now that I have them I can get back to the project I had to put aside and get it finished. Cross-stitching is a great summer hobby when it’s 98 degrees outside and 85% humidity! You walk outside and literally start melting, so finding something to do inside is necessary. I’ve been reading a lot this past year, but am willing to cut back on that a little and spend more time making things. Perhaps I’ll start a quilt again; haven’t done that in a while. Had big plans earlier to do one, but in the end the material and the plan weren’t compatible and I haven’t been able to come up with another idea yet.
So, it’s back to the office tomorrow and while it’s only one small section of the world, it is at least a piece of the puzzle. We’ll see how soon the world returns to some semblance of normalcy. Beyond our presence, our campus is closed to the public, so I’ve ironed my bandanas and am prepared to mask up and do my part. Thought about getting some water pistols and filling them with jelly, since I’m going to look like I’m robbing a bank, but decided that probably wouldn’t be the wisest career choice.
I hope all who read this are healthy and safe and enjoying the time with your families. Hold the people you love closely in your heart if you are unable to be with them physically. Let’s pledge to come out on the other side as better people, and be a little more appreciative of our blessings.
That Sassy Age 