Well, it appears my goals for 2020 may have to change a bit. I was saddened yesterday to receive not just one email canceling our March 5k (scheduled for today, the 14th), but another canceling our April 5k (which wasn’t until the 11th!) I understand the reasoning, 100%, as a health care worker, as a lover of geriatrics, as a science minded citizen, I’m absolutely willing to make some sad sacrifices to help the greater good. But i’m still sad, annoyed, frustrated, and feel a bit grumpy. I will throw myself a 5 minute pity party (probably with a piece of chocolate) and move on.
You see, my days aren’t changing that much. I was already pretty socially distant, I kept my days busy with various activities around the house, and I tend to always have enough food on hand to feed us for at least two weeks. But the more widespread implications still hit me hard. I know families are struggling – with the stress from worry, with the stress of finances, with being all together at home for long periods of time. Uncertainty is very challenging. It is exhausting and confusing. I’d like to thank my many years as a Navy spouse and multiple deployments for preparing me for this (in some ways at least). The funny thing I’ve found about previous experience is that it doesn’t necessarily make your feelings of sadness or frustration go away, it just makes you better equipped to handle them. Your coping skills improve dramatically.
I digress… back to topic at hand. So, the coronavirus is changing plans for everyone. And I am now looking at my goal of “I run a 5k (or more) every month in 2020 in different states” with a bit of a frown. I can still keep up with my running goals – I can maintain this consistency. Which in the grand scheme of things is the outcome I am hoping for (achieve consistent exercise leading to a new standard of exercise), but looks like this goal may need an addendum. I might just tack on “except when unable due to world wide coronavirus pandemic.” I like to tell myself that at the end of the year, when I achieve this goal, that line will make me laugh.
Today, we ran a 5k in our neighborhood. It was kind of warm and humid (not ideal Gretchen running conditions) and I felt slow, but we did it. This will count for our March 5k, given the circumstance. I’m proud of us for sticking to this goal — see, consistency, adaptability, and persistence!
On another note, my goal of reading more will probably thrive during this time – I’ve been reading a book a week to catch up a bit… I foresee that trend continuing. Contrary to a need (seeing as I’d estimate I have at least 50 books in my home that I want to read), I’d love any suggestions you may have! I have a ton of books on audible too (probably 20 or so) and hundreds of podcasts. Unfortunately, there are only so many hours in the day. I have been making progress and whittling my list down – luckily i’m listening/reading faster than I am adding! Winning!!
I want to give a reminder here also. During times of uncertainty, no matter what the cause, it’s so important to take care of yourself. Yes, the sleep, the yoga, the exercise, the mostly eating healthy, limiting caffeine/alcohol, gratitude practices, drinking your water… these things DO matter. And even as you may feel like the world around you is spiraling and you are getting sucked in, taking care of yourself will ground you – it may be taking you from a 10 to an 8, but it will help. I promise. Reach out if you need support in anyway – to a friend, to an online community, call a friend… These are times when it is so important to band together. We are stronger together. Pray, put out good juju, shout happy things into the universe — whatever your flavor of faith and good will is, spread a little extra right now. There is true power in positive outlooks and kindness.
I’d love to hear how you are doing and how you are handling these times. What are you filling your days with? Have your routines changed? What are you eating (i’m looking forward to cooking some yummy food!)? What books/movies/tv shows/podcasts are you enjoying? And know that I am keeping y’all in my prayers – I’m praying for peace over you and strength to help you through the challenges. I am sending love. I’m also here for you, no matter what your need, I’m happy to listen, to empathize, and to brainstorm solutions to the challenges you are facing.
xoxo, Gretchen
So our lives have changed, kids out here are out for 6weeks, my casino shut down for at least 2 weeks (thank goodness paid) my sister had to have the Covid test done as she works for Kaiser and deals with medical personnel (another blessing, negative). I’m currently trying my hand at home teaching. (Not my strong suit) but trying to keep all of us from going insane.( I think its working) trying very hard to be open with our girls and answer any questions. Help them understand what’s happening so they aren’t listening to rumors and getting scared. They say knowledge is power. Sister Lacey is still currently having to work out of their Tukwila location as her department is unable to work from home. So we are trying to keep a normalized life and just take things daily.
I think taking things daily is so important!! I am sending good vibes your way — I can’t believe a year ago we would be in the thick of it in Washington.. Sending lots of calm prayers!
My friend Christy is a homeschool mom and has been sharing a lot of her tips and resources – she also has a podcast (Everyday Motherhood) where she addressed talking to kids about Covid and ideas to help with the different schedule. You can also find her at Play4LifeMoms on IG/FB.