Quarantine got you down?
As a dystopian author, you would think I’m equipped to handle a pandemic. I should know the in’s and out’s of what will happen next. What my research has shown is that the apocalypse is never so straightforward, is it? So worldwide shut down is actually a lot more boring than it sounds, am I right? Books, films have deceived us… Wouldn’t be the first time, I guess. Also, I’ll probably use these experiences in future novels, but with enhancements. Wink, wink! Hollywood, here I come.
I’m a survivalist, (she shakes her head), no really, I am. Fine, I’m not a survivalist, but let’s assume I am. I’ve set up a shortlist to help us through these difficult days.
As I pen this essay, it’s rainy and cold, and not the most pleasant person to be around at the moment. After three weeks of social distancing, I needed to find tips to get through this because although I’m used to working at home, all day, by myself, (solitude isn’t the problem), my kids are driving me bananas. Next time, I think I’m going to record them screaming for posterity. (insert eye-roll)
Perhaps I’m not a survivalist, but I’m proactive, and I’ve scoured the internet, well mostly Pinterest to find great ideas to keep myself from losing more marbles, and decided to share my findings.
First, I’ve found stuff to help organize your day, work schedule with kids. Check these interesting pins HERE and HERE.
If, however, you’re like me in need of a break!
I’ve got you covered!
First, let’s cover 6 TIPS to SURVIVE the quarantine.
1- Make some comfort food: Pinterest bread-making pins have skyrocketed. Personally, that’s too much work. I enjoy cooking, but not the mess. So here are some easy, fast recipes to enjoy without the fuss.
Goulash with only 4 ingredients. Make heaps and store in freezer. (Survivalist thinking!!) See I told you, right? Also, looks super good.
https://www.thekitchenismyplayground.com/2019/05/4-ingredient-quick-easy-goulash.html
Good old fashion chicken noodle soup, mmm.
https://www.favesouthernrecipes.com/Recipes-for-Soup/Classic-Chicken-Noodle-Soup-Recipe
You should also make lots of this.
If you’re lucky enough to own an Instant Pot, then this dish is really good. I’ve actually tried this one. 😉
https://www.thecookierookie.com/instant-pot-classic-pot-roast/
2-Keep a Journal
Yes, it seems a little too simple, but writing down how you feel is very cathartic, and helpful. Try it for a couple of days when you sit down for a cup of tea and a cookie and see how you feel. Now, I know what you’re going to say. It’s the tea and cookie that are soothing… maybe, but why argue over details.
3-Tackle Clutter
Make space for all that toilet paper, and canned goods. Not only will you feel good, you might find some old stuff that will entertain you like that old wedding DVD. Watch it and share a good laugh.
4- Read a good book
I got you covered. Enjoy an Advanced Reader Copy for a limited time on Wattpad.
Check out it out here, and don’t forget to leave a comment and a little star to show how much you enjoyed it. Psst: It’s sort of theme related. Sort of… it’s post-apocalyptic, but still.
5-Learn a skill
I admit, if you have kids, plus work, this is utterly impossible. I know I’ve tried. My new skill was going to be learning sign language on You Tube, which proved impossible, however with the tips on how to organize your work schedule listed above, who knows maybe we’ll find time. 😉
6- Plan a family Staycation
This one is my favourite. Check out my blog HERE on how to accomplish this.
All in all my friends, I’ll be honest if I had to pick just one of these it would probably be read a book. What? Self-promotion? Noooo, I would never. 😉
No matter what you do, try and remember you can’t do it all, and when the sh*t hits the fan, just drop everything and hang out with your family. It’s all any of us can do.
Love you all, stay safe and I’ll be seeing you in the virtual.
Cheers,
K