This world is full of uncertainties. I know this, I always have, but within this past week, it has become an abrupt reality to me how quickly things can change in a short timeline. Things that I thought I had control over and now I don’t. The past several days have been hard, honestly, and I’ve been struggling to find words.
So far, the hardest part has been realizing that some of the hugs I gave to the people I care about were going to be the last ones for a while. Also, navigating the uncertainties of where this is all going to lead, the confusing information that keeps changing day-to-day, and wondering how long will it be before society returns to “normal.” But I’m sure you feel the same way. And I hope whoever is reading this is doing their best to stay well and healthy, however possible.
Today marks one week for me that I haven’t left my house. Since last Thursday, I have worked from home (which I’m very thankful to have to that opportunity) and I haven’t been out except for a few walks around my neighborhood. For the following two weeks, my family has decided to stay self-quarantined in our house for the safety of everyone.
Some of my favorite blogs are writing posts multiple times a week about what they’re doing during these odd times. They inspired me to do the same. So for the next two weeks, I will try to write a post a few times a week, featuring the food that I’m cooking, uplifting articles/books I’m reading, music I’m listening to, silly things that I find my pup doing, resources I find, etc. Basically, I wan’t to capture what it means to stay home and settling into this one place.
I might just be talking into the abyss of the internet, getting lost in the noise of everything going on right now. But honestly, I’m always worried about that when I write on this blog. It’s a hurdle I have to jump over every time I start writing and hit the publish button. And since I’ll be in my house for quite a while though, I thought I might as well start up a conversation, offering you to comment and tell me how you’re doing as well. Now more than ever is a time where the internet can a source of connection while being distant.
I hope these little posts can serve a purpose, to offer a small space of distraction and connectedness between ourselves while staying inside. As a writer with this little platform, it’s all that I can think of to do. Comment and share the things you’re doing too, I’d love to hear from you!
A note on wellness
I love essentail oils, so I thought that I would share a few that I’ve been useing these last few days.
Lemongrass — this essential oil has been my favorite for the past week. It’s bright, uplifting, and when diffused it makes my room smell fresh. Plus, it’s benefits are numerous: it’s detoxifying, reduces stress and inflammation, has antioxidant effects, fights the flu or colds, among so many other things.
Thieves — This is a blend of essential oils, consisting of clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata, and rosemary. We made this concoction in a spray bottle so we can mist it into the air and spray it on our couch and beds. Not only is does this blend have such a comfoting and warm aroma, but it has so many benifits. Some of which are: boosting the immune system, having antimicrobial activity, fighting nasel and sinus congestion, promoting respiratory and cardiovascular health, energizing or uplifting mood
What’s on my plate
Being at home has been given me some opportunity to cook and be a little creative with what I put on my plate.
This morning was simple, I made myself eggs, clementines, and blueberries (for which my dog sat and begged from me the whole time I was eating.)
I’ve also been working on my latte art skills, where I’ve seen little to no improvement.
A little something related to the news
There has been so much misinformation going around on social media concerning the virus. Every morning, I’ve been trying to listen to the press conferences with the government officials to get my information and updates about where this whole world is going. This morning, I was listening to the Governor of New York’s press conference. Honestly, I was shocked how uplifting and relatively positive he was throughout the whole conference. Also, he took the initiative to say something I think is so relative: “Words Matter, at this point. Words matter.” (49:20)
As a writer, I closely connected with this, but it is so true for everyone at any time. In a time where there is information overload, a lot of us are quantized at home with the internet being our only source connection, the words we use are vital. “I believe communication is important and words are important. Say what you mean…” Along with this statement, he went through and started to define what the words “quarantine,” “isolation,” “shelter-in-place,”‘ and “modified shelter-in-place” (44:03) and how we need to watch the language that we use. I don’t live in New York, but the midwest has closely followed behind some of what the bigger cities are doing. Not only did this ease some of my worries I’ve had lately, but it made me hopeful for the coming weeks.
Something to listen to
To end today’s little post, here is a playlist I made for the next couple of weeks. I’ll be adding to it every so often when I find songs that are fitting.
I hope throughout these few next days we can all find peace and wellness in our homes. If you have to go out, take safe precaustions and wash your hands. If you are sick, stay strong. We will all get through this together.
Megan Elaine 