Looking back to November 2019 there were plenty of things to keep my mind occupied. The heating up of election campaigns, upcoming holidays, changing of the seasons, staying busy at work, countdown to my retirement, among many other things. 3-4 months later, COVID-19 took over the attention of people planet wide. Business/employment collapsing in many sectors of commerce, industry, non-profits, schools and a plethora of other organizations adversely. So just about everyone of us have had our lives affected in multiple ways and need to handle them in our own ways.
My present perspective as a new retiree and the expectations I had a year a ago pre-COVID-19.
- Being laid off six months before retirement at the beginning of the pandemic (events not connected).
- Never thought we would be scrambling for toilet paper, disinfectant and shopping on practically empty shelves at the grocery store (not that bad now).
- Never thought I'd be wearing a face mask when I went anywhere (still sucks).
- Never thought we would be standing outside stores separated by six feet apart waiting for a turn to get inside (not that bad now).
- Once retired expected to be doing yard work and projects (happening). Taking in some local school's sports teams an other activities now and then, (not happening).
- Visit more often with my 93 year old mother at her elderly apartment facility and take her out to lunch. Now one visitor at a time. Not worth taking the chance. I do try to call weekly.
- Expected spending Thanksgiving with Ian and Ali who live in the next state, didn't happen. COVID surge. Fingers crossed for Christmas.
Well, that's where I'm at now, All my closest relatives have been healthy though a nephew who is a first responder has had bouts with the virus. (lives across country from us) so I am fortunate where it's most important.
Happy holidays, be safe, wear your mask.
