Reclaiming a Sense of Normal

     I've only blogged five times in the last two weeks and most of that was ranting. I still see I'm having a reader or two, so thank you for sticking with me. I realized this morning that my sense of grounding has partially been out of whack because things that I had done as part of my daily life, that really are not impacted at all by the current health crisis, have been pushed aside for the most part.I might need to alter the time of day, or the mechanism, but there are things I can take back in my life that won't disrupt the precautions and measures as a world we are doing to try and flatten the curve of the spread of the Corona virus. Taking back time to blog is heading to the top of my list.

     First, let me get out of the way how the crisis is immediately impacting me and my family

• I'm working incredibly long hours, and am practically on call outside of the hours  people generally sleep. That may die down a bit this week as education plans are worked out, and resources identified for schools. I'm taking a shift on the call center tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m. I'll still be working on grants and contracts to get those resources flowing, and starting in April we have to start the process for the next fiscal year, while winding down this fiscal year. All this means, is that the crisis work has impeded regular work, so the long hours will continue. I need to say this though, I am incredibly fortunate that I have a job and will not lose personal income. I can do much of my work from home, though we are rotating days to ensure there is a few managers on hand, well distanced.

• DD2 has moved to on-line school, supposedly to April 13, but she is hearing of other schools closing for the remainder of the year so suspect her college will follow suit. I imagine there will be a schedule for getting kids moved out of the dorms. She misses her friends and feels bored, but takes long walks, and does the social media stuff. She is infuriated with spring breakers, and when she see's friends hanging out like this is nothing. 

• DD1 is working remotely as well until April 3. She has much better internet than we do, so on days I am working from home, DD2 may join her at her place. Our circle of people has been very tight. My older daughter has been very creative with taking a Yale course and doing home virtual work outs offered through her gym. She's using the time work wise to master some new equipment, programs, something related to her work that I do not understand completely.

• DH goes to shorter hours, and I am flabbergasted they have not had to close completely. I suppose the government figures people will need cars. The service area and parts area laid off  people though. Up until Monday, he was just as busy, but the last couple days has slowed nearly to a halt, so we can expect reduced income. 

• DS in California is on the shelter in place guidance. He has access to gas, groceries, and is getting exercise, so trying to stay mentally and physically healthy. Fingers crossed California has done enough and in April, and he can start working again, along with everyone else. 

• We are stocked with groceries and stores are fine, if not sparse on some items. I have yet to find the elusive package of toilet paper, and now our TP roll count is down to four. I have cleaning supplies, but to see my house you wouldn't know it. That's going to be my Sunday, with DD2 and DH, so the week can start with more order. 

     That's done, and other than to perhaps slip a toilet paper update, I will try to avoid any  complaining, or navel gazing on how we are impacted, because we're no different than anyone else. I hope I and my family are being kinder, more patient, and generous to help our nation and world move forward. I am conflicted a bit about tightening our belts even more and spending to support the small business. We did get take out last night and I left a hefty tip. This was the restaurant DD2 worked at two summers ago, and the one that provided free kids lunches this past week when school was out, and some families had already lost their jobs. I plan to pick up a growler of beer or seltzer from the brewery who host our wonderful trivia nights. We'll get dairy from the creamery that supports our church breakfasts, and the pizza place that supported traveling basketball. I'll send  another donation to our local food bank, and as I restock items, I'll buy extra cans and boxed items to go into the little  free libraries that have been converted to be little food pantries. 

     Thank you all dear blog world friends. Keep safe and healthy, and let's all stay in touch.