Stay-at-Home 2020

We could go outside only for food, medicine, and outings that were absolutely essential. These were the Stay-at-Home orders issued in March 2020 to slow the spread of COVID-19.

My children work from home and my grandchildren attend classes remotely. We are all getting used to the new routine. It is a little over eight months since the first stay-at-home order came.

On my family group chat, we talked about activities we could take up during our time at home. My grandson helpfully posted a list of online courses, some offered by Ivy League Universities. With some hesitation, I registered for a ten-week self-improvement course, "The Science of Well-Being," by Yale Professor, Dr. Laurie Santos. I completed assignments and surveys, did quizzes, and joined an online discussion group of mostly young people. I enjoyed the experience and came away with a more positive and productive mindset.

Family chat groups and video conferencing have become the new family time. I am grateful I can talk to my grandchildren, see them smile, and watch them in their homes. It is comforting even if I can’t meet them.

I've been observing squirrels and little birds scampering around the front yard. Finally caught them together.

Taking photos on my phone is a new hobby now, especially when I am out walking in the neighborhood. I have taken up knitting again and completed a few 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles!

There is news about promising vaccines for COVID-19. Hopefully, treatment will be available for everyone soon. In the meantime please stay safe.