I have decided to become a hugger. After we’re through this pandemic, of course.
A friend and I were talking the other night about how much we’re missing hugs. We’ve never been huggy friends, but we’re going to change that.
Being in a situation where it’s not safe to hug. Being in a situation where you don’t have a partner whom you can hug and who will hug you back. I’ve come to realize how important physical connections are.
I am making renewed efforts to connect with friends and family. As the year and the pandemic progresses, these connections are helping me cope. Even if I can’t hug people yet.
What we need on any given day changes. I hope that you are finding what you need and finding your own ways to cope.
(I’ve also decided Ellie is going to be required to hold my hand forever.)
Here are some other things helping me cope this month.
“Our culture is very solution-oriented, which is a good way of thinking for many things… But it’s a very destructive way of thinking when you’re faced with a problem that has no solution.” Coping strategies for difficult times.
Practical, real-life examples of how to talk to your kids
I don’t love making pastry. I find it fussy and worrisome. But I made Joanna’s quiche, and it wasn’t as much work as I feared. Also, it was good.
Demo tools and tips (it’s not about smashing everything)
A guy who grew up down the road from Matt also died of melanoma (a different form) very young. His Mom recently reached out to me and shared this beautiful memorial. I hate that memorials like this exist. But I am grateful for all of the care and the love that leads to these tributes.
My writing elsewhere:
- How to help a toddler understand her dog’s death
- Introduction to lure coursing
- Thermally enhanced weld camera improves productivity in HSAW
- Pivoting welding education in the future post COVID-19
Home on 129 Acres 
Recently, I came across a facebook post that challenged me to boil down my pandemic experience into six words. Things like that are right up my alley, so I thought awhile and came up with “reassessing priorities by degree of longing”. Physical contact with loved ones is high on the list – especially grandchildren. One of the many positive changes that the pandemic experience has brought is an increased appreciation for the joys of being physically together with someone. There really isn’t a proper substitute for it. In an age where contrived experience abounds and is pawned off as better than the real thing, it’s reassuring to know that the human qualities that make us who we are really don’t change. We can still tune in to each other, to nature, to the simple joys of life, and they will not disappoint. I hope we (as a society) don’t forget that when the restrictions are over! I don’t want to go back to “normal”.
What a great exercise. You’ve got me thinking now. My feelings are the same as yours (I’m sure you’re not surprised). The pandemic has been an accentuation of our new normal in some ways. Being home. Being the two of us. Being part of the farm. These are all things I treasure, so it’s a good lesson to focus on what matters most.