Counting My Blessings

So – just over a week into working from home, and almost a week of total lockdown, and I am gradually getting used to being at home, and actually becoming quite domesticated! And counting my blessings. And even my husband’s lifelong dislike of being told what to do has been tempered by reality, and we are putting our own health and that of others to the fore and staying in. The only time I have actually been out over the past week is for shopping and to collect a mobile phone from school so I can continue to work from home.

Other than that, I have read, cross stitched, made bread, cakes and marmalade and planted seeds; I have played piano, guitar and banjolele, chatted to friends on the phone and on social media and lounged in front of the TV. Home cooked meals are the norm – not only are we not going out to get takeaways; we are not having anything delivered either. Maybe over-cautious, but better that than reckless.

I am finding though that there is plenty to do at home (although I did actually get bored enough this morning to do some housework!!) and in the garden and although it’s cold in the wind, I can usually find a sunny patch of garden to do some weeding – or reading…

It’s at times like this you realise how lucky you are, and I know I’m very fortunate to have my husband at home with me, playing his guitar, or ready to sit and chat over coffee, as well as my kids and friends who I can call for a chat and who keep me entertained with silly photos. I’m spending a bit more time on social media, as it seems are most people judging from the plethora of posts, to say nothing of trivia challenges which can provoke interesting conversations – who knew a friend went to a school featured in one of my favourite films??

We are living in historic times – and it’s important to keep a sense of perspective and know this too will pass: we will be able to look back on this time in the future, and think of how we coped. At present we are doing ok – but I realise how lucky we are, in a comfortable home, warm, dry and well fed – even if pasta is impossible to find!

Most important, I am lucky to so far be in good health and to know those nearest and dearest to me are too; I pray we all remain safe and healthy through these trying times.