Staying home

Is everyone else feeling a little stir crazy? I'm about to start my fourth week (or is it third? Who knows anymore) working from home and it's still weird. While I've been finding ways to create a sense of normalcy, it's easy for that to fall into monotony.

I've been working on facetiming or having zoom dates with friends both near and far as much as possible, but when it comes down to it, we're all a little unsure of what's going on these days. It adds a layer of stress to everyday life.

I'm very fortunate that my schedule has remained fairly constant, I still work and my schedule has remained the same. It's just where I am that has changed, which is the case with a lot of people. But since nobody really knows what to expect of the coming weeks and even months, the lack of a long-term plan can be unsettling.

So you have to find ways to make it fun — or to at least take your mind off the uncertainties slip away for a little bit here and there, whenever possible. Like last week, my friend Emily coordinated a virtual spirit week for those working from home. And this week, I've seen an explosion of people finding ways to connect with others or reminisce on better times through virtual "bingo" cards popping up on social media demonstrating shared experiences. Even today, I got a card in the mail from a dear friend Abby who recently made an open invitation for others to become her pen pal.

Earlier this week, I was reminded of the Mr. Rogers' quote "Look for the helpers." When you need hope, when all feels lost, look for those who are giving their all to help others. When you need joy, look for those striving to maintain human connection. When you need a distraction, find a friend and reminisce on old times for an escape. No matter what, don't stop looking for the helpers. There's always someone.