Pandemic thoughts

In the 2 months since I've posted, the world has, and still is, struggling with the Covid 19 pandemic. So many emotions rush through our minds: fear, sadness, frustration, disbelief, anger, anxiety, and on and on. Most of us are on "lock-down" or at least self-isolating to slow the spread of this too deadly disease, which produces many more feelings of boredom, isolation, loneliness, and depression. But just like any great fight for good outcomes, we can do much to help ourselves. So while my blog is about quilting, I'm going to stretch back into my past career as a counselor to give you some thoughts.

First, recognize that this situation will improve--the when is the part that is unknown. Many of us are uncomfortable with unknowns, wanting our lives to be orderly and more controlled. Why not? Having order and control is not a bad thing--but sometimes we need to recognize that things are not controllable--and this is one of these times. So let's remind ourselves that it's ok, we don't have control or a timetable over the pandemic and isolating--but we can control other things in our lives. Having routine is important--so stick to a "normal" bedtime, get dressed daily (wearing those jammies for 2-3 months is going to mean a big surprise when we go to fit back into to regular clothes otherwise!), do your normal bathing and teeth brushing, eat normal meals.

Beyond routines, make an effort to reach out to others--not just by social media or texting, but actually make a phone call--or if a neighbor, hollar over the fence! Have grandchildren you aren't seeing? Send them a note, a card, or a little "something" to let them know you are thinking about them. Have a friend that is isolating without other family--be sure to make contact with them every couple of days--it's a lot of alone time when you are all by yourself. Connect with nature, too. Green is Good!

Many are also becoming home school experts (or attempting to do so) and working from home (sometimes doing both for the first time). Realize that it won't be perfect, everyone is adjusting. I hear some parents worry about their children falling behind or missing graduations/promotion ceremonies, etc. Stop! 35years as an educator/school counselor sets me up to assure you that promotions and graduations WILL happen--they may not look like traditional ones, but it will happen! And educators WILL work with their incoming students next Fall to make sure all are ready for the next school year. So approach the homeschooling as something to explore with your children, to help give them the routine that they need to not be traumatized by all this scary stuff., as a way for them to move forward in a positive way--not as a total replacement for their traditional school.

And for those of you that are risking your lives daily as first responders, health care workers, or grocery personnel--please stay safe--and the rest of us can help with that by practicing good hygiene and social isolation.

In the meantime, here is an improv Drunkard's Path quilt made in a class with Tia Curtis of Leavenworth, KS--what better example of a world out of control than an improv quilt with unplanned free motion quilting! Stay distant-Stay Safe!