Sense of Place
Wow… I cannot believe that it’s Friday already. That said, I did break my rule a couple of times this week… so this weekly blog entry seems “excessive” since I had blogged twice before. Meh. I felt compelled to write, so I did. Maybe that’s the way it will be… commit to a weekly blog, but blog when you damn well please. Oh ya… I said it. JUST WRITE… WHY NOT? This is the end of Week 5 of #stayingathome due to the COVID-19 pandemic and it’s taken about this long to become more accustomed to “new lifestyle” of #socialdistancing. It was a little rough at first being an extrovert, but I’m finding a lot of solace being home alone. Of course I would love to be with my daughter on the Sunshine Coast, but I am still connected with her via technology and we are both safe. I’ve just finished my work for the Winter 2020 term at the university and the chaos of my emergent lifestyle developing indoors and online, it was best to be home alone in Prince George. My sleep habits are still out of whack, but I am so happy to transition to the other part of my job… that is writing, researching, and publishing. Again, might be best at this point in time to be in isolation in my apartment to get this work done. As teaching faculty, this part of my job is really done on the side of my desk and almost impossible (for me) go get anything done while classes and practicum are in session. Taking a deep breath and I will enjoy this opportunity because with the implementation of our NEW BED PROGRAM in the fall, I may not have this luxury of time as the program will be 16 continuous months instead of 8-months and 8-months over 2-years. I am also enjoying going out for a walk around the neighbourhood or walking to the supermarket. I didn’t do these things before the pandemic so I am learning more about where I live. I am developing my sense of place with each walk and I’m really enjoying going outside even though I am at least 6-feet apart from the closest person. People have been really respectful on my walks as we each make space for each other. I love the unspoken understanding and being courteous. People are so friendly in Prince George. I have been really happy about that. Happiness is a choice. I have nothing but gratitude during this extraordinary time and I am so grateful for all those who are checking in with me. I do feel connected in a very large community. How can I be anything else but BE HAPPY.