Notes from a Global Pandemic

Well it's been a LONG time since I wrote an actual post in here, but this blog is used to document my life and it will be interesting to read back on this time in a few years. We are currently in a global pandemic where the whole world is fighting COVID-19, a novel coronavirus that was first identified in Wuhan, China. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness and can be spread fairly easily from person to person. It wasn't until early February/March that the US really started to experience the effects of COVID-19, although the first US case was identified on January 21st.

Currently, all schools in Massachusetts are closed until early May. Additionally, non-essential workers are required to work from home and all non-essential businesses are closed. Many restaurants are still offering delivery/takeout. Luckily, both Jacob and I have been working remotely since March 13th. We also have a curfew in place from 9pm - 6am and it's recommended that you wear a mask and gloves when out in public. New York has been hit really hard. Laura is still having to go to work as she is considered essential. Everyone is still healthy and safe but I worry every day for my friends and family there. Two of my best friends are nurses in NY and I can't imagine the physical and emotional tax this is having on them.

Things are very scary and I've been battling a lot of anxiety. I was very sick at the end of January with the flu and had lingering symptoms from that flu for many weeks - including a cough, one of the main symptoms of COVID-19. It's nearly impossible to get a test so I don't know if I had it or not. I was also traveling for work through early March so who knows. Besides that, Jacob and I have both been feeling physically good and healthy.

The days are long and strange. Weekdays have blended into weekends and we are doing our best to keep a schedule. I am incredibly grateful to have a steady job that I can do virtually. Luckily none of my family or close friends have been majorly affected in that way yet by this crisis. Nearly 10 million Americans filed for unemployment in the last two weeks - so insane. The federal government has signed off on a stimulus package to support people and business financially during this time, but I can't imagine it will be enough to prevent a recession.

We have had to cancel several trips and events like the Austin Food & Wine Fest, a trip to Portland, ME, and Easter with my family in NY. Our friends also had to postpone their wedding in May - so horrible. In the scheme of things, none of this matters too much. No one knows how long this will last or if things will ever go back to normal. It's hard to imagine people will feel comfortable gathering in large groups in a matter of weeks or months.

My job has transitioned to focus 80% on COVID-19 response. I feel so horrible for all the kids and families who were already struggling and facing so many challenges before this crisis. Many of those adults have either lost their jobs or are considered "essential" workers -- transit drivers, mail delivery, cleaners, grocery working, etc. They are putting themselves and their families at risk ever day.

On a daily basis I am just trying to remain grateful and keep my anxiety in check. I have been keeping myself busy cooking, baking, watching TV, exercising, doing puzzles, and having lots of phone/video calls with friends and family. About a week ago I decided to stop reading the news entirely. It is too anxiety inducing for me to get constant updates on this and I'm sure if there's anything urgent, someone will tell me.

Anyway, here are some photos from this strange time. Maybe I will write another update in a few weeks.

Neighbor's chicken!

Biscuit baking

Lots of great breakfasts

My favorite Fitness Marshall workouts

Trying to manage my worries...

Creating a sense of calm while I work

Trying to keep somewhat healthy meals in the rotation

Appropriate face covering?

Calzones are the ultimate comfort food

So many puzzles

Peanut butter cookies

Cheesiest chicken parm!

Hello enchiladas

Video calls with my faves

The prettiest puzzle ever

Family chats!

Perfected the breakfast potato

Makeshift work station

Cinnamon sugar popovers!

The pantry filled up and ready

1:1 beer pong to pass the time

More zooms

Virtual game nights - thank you technology!

Lots and lots of walks by the beach