Safe to say, things have changed drastically around the world in the last 6 weeks. At my day job, I began working on communications regarding the coronavirus at the end of January. Then, I began working from home (WFH) the week of March 16. My son's daycare closed that same week. Tomorrow starts week 5 for us. There really aren't words to describe what isolation and quarantine are like because everyone deals with it differently. But, there are a few things I've done to help get through it...
Trying a new recipe
Being home for the long haul has created more time for me to experiment as well as cook (my hubs usually does the majority of the cooking, while I'm the baker). I subscribed to Home Chef the week before I started WFH, and have been super pleased, not only with the quality of the food and the recipes, but with the fact that I don't have to put a lot of thought into dinner! It's a little pricy, but for me, the efficiency and taking the guesswork out of family meals, has made this whole situation a lot easier. If you're interested in a discount code, let me know!
I've also made banana bread (who hasn't during this pandemic?!), my grandmother's molasses cookies, sugar cookies for easter, bread, scallop potatoes from scratch and have plans for a tried and true recipe for spinach artichoke lasagna and chicken pot pie. Planning a recipes post soon!
Going for walks or doing a short workout
Let me be the first to say - WFH while balancing the needs and activities of a toddler is no joke. The only 'me' time I really get is when he goes to bed. So I either take him for a walk with me, or do a pilates workout at night. Going for walks heavily depends on where you live and how many people you may or may not encounter and have to avoid. Luckily for me, our neighborhood, while suburban, isn't overly crowded and any time I've seen other people on our walks, they have politely crossed the street to maintain comfortable distance. And, because I was in need of new sneakers, I could also enjoy a little retail therapy! These Adidas are super lightweight, the color is perfect for me and they are still on sale! The sewn-in tongue took a little getting used to, but so far, so good!
Connecting with loved ones
There are two things I would consider investing in right now: the hand lotion industry, because face it, after all the hand washing and use of hand sanitizer, our hands could all use some serious TLC, and Zoom. I've been using Zoom almost every day since being home and have grown accustomed to scheduling a 'meeting' or sending an invite link to connect one on one with a colleague. Today, I scheduled a zoom for some of my extended family, and it was so great to see people and connect, especially on a holiday. I also had a virtual coffee date with a close friend yesterday! We are so lucky to be able to to maintain our relationships and friendships in this way during such a scary and uncertain time.
Engage in a little retail therapy
Ok, I'll be honest. Every day, I look longingly at my closet and then at my favorite retailers online and see the amazing sales happening left and right. I would love to partake in all the spring wardrobe shopping and invest in a few new pieces. But then reality sets in, and I have to practically think about a) spending money on non-essentials and b) when I will be able to 'dress up' again for work. Some people go the 'wearing pjs and leggings' while WFH route, and some people are motivated enough to put together a whole ensemble as if they are going to the office. I'm somewhere in the middle. Comfort is key, but I can't quite bring myself to wear too much loungewear, especially if I know I'm going to have a Zoom meeting that day. I still go about my morning routine as if I'm going to the office - makeup, hair, an outfit - I do need some semblance of normalcy, and plus, I feel better! But, that doesn't mean I haven't invested in a few things to pass the time...
This kitchen stool has allowed my tornado toddler to 'stand' at the counter and 'help' prepare food and be involved. So far, he loves it!
Who doesn't love coffee? I have been hemming and hawing for months about investing in a Nespresso machine - which one, which size, best price, etc. - and I finally caved and purchased the Nespresso Next (on sale!). The machine also came with a milk frother (aeroccino), which has been a game changer, and a starter pack of Vertuo pods. I've used both almost every day since this plastic piece of heaven arrived on my sanitized doorstep and will be purchasing more flavors soon. I also appreciate their green business model and the ability to return the pods for recycling - unlike other companies (ahem, Keurig).
Lastly, this primer - all I can say is wow! I decided to give it a try and ordered from Nordstrom (it sells out on the Tula site all the time), and I'm so glad I did. It really does 'blur' imperfections and give you a nice even look - without the need for full-on make up! OK, Tula, you win.
What are you doing to keep busy, stay motivated and keep your spirits up during this time?
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