The word, surreal, defines these days as we all think deeply about what to do and how to do it in the face of the coronavirus. As much as possible I don't want to get or transfer this illness, so I'm taking the advice of so many wise doctors who are offering me advice online and in real time to take all precautions. What does that mean?
It means that I will practice social distancing, stay close to home, wash my hands often, and practice healthy living. Challenges include welcoming my college son home. Has he come in contact with the virus? He likely has since he's traveled many miles through a zone where the virus numbers are climbing. This also means that I'll be watching out for my older relatives and thinking about how to support them in the days ahead--fortunately they are able to self-quarantine for the most part so that should help.
Teachers and administration have been working together to outline what the days ahead mean for us professionally. It is likely that we'll share modest learning menus, make ourselves available to students and families for consult, and perhaps, even make time to contact students via the Internet in some targeted way to support their education in the days ahead.
Like many, I too am tempted to head for the mountains, woods, or beaches, but I'll stay close to home near my doctors, near my loved ones, near ready-access to basic needs, and where I can best practice social distancing.
Today, I'll head out to the grocery store to get a few supplies (I am in a unique position in that I'm surrounded by about 10 grocery stores in a five mile radius), cook a healthy meal for my family, and continue to check of the boxes on my Coronavirus List:
- Plant seedlings
- Dig a garden plot
- Clean the garage
- Clean a few closets
- Organize, sort clothes for the spring/summer season
- Attend to school work, students/families' questions/needs
- Walks outdoors
- Lots of sleep
- Read and research
- Watch great movies
I'll also keep my fingers crossed, that we've "flattened the curve" and lessened the impending crisis many predict this virus may cause. Let's see.