So, here we are at the end of a crazy week. Probably the craziest week I’ve ever experienced! COVID-19 has surely turned life upside-down for us all. We’re all trying to find our way through the maze of emotions, news feeds, and reality. Two things are for sure: 1) God is in control, and 2) we’re in this together. And for these, I am grateful.
But before we close down this crazy week, I’m checking in to see how you are.
Friend, how are you? How are you facing this COVID-19 pandemic? Are you home practicing social distancing or are you on the front lines of this mess? How is your family? Is there anything you need at the moment?
This week was supposed to be our staycation. It feels like forever ago that I wrote my “beginning our staycation” post. I had no idea when we began the week just how much staying we would experience in our staycation! I’m thinking none of us knew this week would be like this. Bill has gone to work every day but one. I’ve spent the week at home (except for a quick trip to the grocery stores on Monday morning and to see Zach Tuesday evening). Quite honestly, this extrovert is struggling a bit. I can’t remember–if ever–the last time I’ve been home for this many days in a row.
But, I’m not about to complain.
This crazy week has shown me I’m just going to have to find a new normal. I just don’t know what that’s going to look like at this point. None of us knows that, though, right? But, you and I will figure it out as we walk this thing out. What have you been doing that you’ve found to be of help for you and your family? What positive actions have you taken during this time? Is there something specific that’s working for you? I’d sure love to read any thoughts and ideas you care to share!
For me, doing what I love–writing–each day has kept my attitude lifted, and while I’m writing, my days fly by. My workouts (that I began in January and have continued since) have strengthened me, both mentally and physically. It’s been cold and rainy here in Iowa, so doing anything outdoors has been nearly impossible. I can’t wait until the day I can take a long walk outside to breathe in some fresh air! Also, I’ve found such hope and strength in my daily devotionals, in prayer, and reading my Bible. I can’t say enough how much those have filled me and encouraged me, especially on the tough days.
I’m still struggling to find a routine, however. And, maybe though, I don’t need one right now. I don’t know. I’m just trying to live in the moment and take it one day at a time. I’m guessing you’re trying to do that, too.
We may not have expected this crazy week, but we’ve certainly learned from it.
We’ve learned a lot this week, haven’t we? Yes! We’ve learned how to practice social distancing. Some of us have learned how to adjust to working from home. With or without our kids! Some of us have learned how to work differently in the office. We’ve learned how to thoroughly wash our hands, how to better care for ourselves and those we love, and that a short-term sacrifice will pay off in the long run by staying home as much as we can. What else have you learned?
I have to believe, however, not all weeks will be this crazy.
They may be for awhile, but I believe God will continue to show us His goodness through it all. And one day, we’ll begin to see light at the end of the tunnel. What a glorious day that will be! Of course we each want that day to come sooner than later, but no matter when, it will come. We can believe that. We can trust that. And we can ask God to bring it soon.
In the meantime, we can walk through this together. We can encourage one another. We can live responsibly, love wholeheartedly, and look for the good in every day.
You’ll find me here checking in every now and then. I’ll continue to share encouragement for the real lives we’re living now, and I’ll give you a glimpse as to what’s going on in my little corner of the world. We’ll continue to journey this road together. I am so very grateful for you, friend. So very grateful.
Take care of yourself and your loved ones.
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I love your uplifting writings. They make me think how fortunate I am. During this week of staycation I have been going thru boxes I moved into the upstairs 5 years ago with plans to go thru them. When I finish I will still have boxes of pictures to go thru. Never ending and then I hope Spring is here and I can get outside and the virus will be gone. God is good!
Oh, Dixie, I am with you! I’m praying it leaves so we can enjoy spring and summer. It’s a good time to do those things we’ve been putting off! This week my plan is to begin some of those projects I’ve been putting off. Praying we all stay healthy. Take care of yourself!
I retired a year and a half ago. Not having a routine was really difficult to get used to. Not having a routine now seems like a breeze. I keep in mind things I want to do for the week; then I can accomplish at my speed and time. its made being home enjoyable even by myself.
I took a long walk outdoors yesterday when we had a beautifully sunny day. it does help.
have a good day and smile about something!
That’s great, Terri! Thanks for sharing how you’ve managed without a “routine.” Your walk outside sounded wonderful! I look forward to the weather warming up here so I can do the same. God bless you and take care of yourself! Thanks for stopping by!
I have found that I have no routine in my routine. Yes, I shower, put on makeup, make coffee, spend time in God’s Word. But I have found with all my activities cancelled, I have been able to call many people from our church who can’t get out, have colored pictures to send to people, etc. And what a blessing it has been to have the time. Hearing a real voice at the end of the phone still beats texting(though I love to text because I can do it when most people are sleeping). Thanks for your continuous thoughts and uplifting messages.
Good for you, Dixie, in showering, putting on makeup, making your coffee, and spending time in God’s Word! That’s more than I’ve done some days here. 🙂 What a wonderful thing to do, to bless others in ways you can while you are home. Great ideas, too! Yes, there’s nothing like a phone call. Thanks for stopping by and for sharing today, Dixie. Stay well and take care of yourself! God bless you.
It is a strange place to be in….living in such a rural area and being retired, social distancing is my way of life so for me personally not much has changed. My husband is working from home and that is certainly a big change as I try to be quiet and not interrupt his many phone calls. I’m so grateful for texting and FaceTime so I can keep up with our kids and grandkids. I am a worrier so that is my biggest challenge: keeping it under control. Thank you for all your encouraging posts. They truly help! God is using you to touch others!
You’re welcome, Cindy. Thanks for being here. I imagine having your husband home is a change for you. But, knowing you, you’re making the best of it all. Love that you get to FaceTime with your kids and grandkids! This technology is sure a gift, especially during this time. Much love!