Day #14: Monday, March 30, 2020

The self quarantine experience has not been particularly difficult for me, since I sometimes enjoy isolating myself. I miss seeing my friends, but I also value the time I have on my own. I always have. Everyone is different when it comes to finding motivation, but I am the most motivated when I am by myself. Because I have always been pretty independent, it has been really easy for me to find something to do. Throughout this period of time I have been exercising more, journaling, researching topics I am interested in, and have been talking with my basketball coach about the future. I have been drawing more, and doing other things that I normally do not have time to do. Recently, I have picked up the guitar again because I have always wanted to learn how to actually play it, not just a few chords.

It stinks not being able to see my friends, but I have spent more time making memories with my family. My mom and I have done a lot of cooking together, playing cards, and talking. When we come together as a whole family (my dad, mom, brother, and I) we will often watch Harry Potter or go on a walk with the dog.

In difficult times like these, it is easy to focus on the negatives, but I don’t like to do that. Being at home, I have appreciated the life and family I have more. My mom, being a teacher, has done a lot to stay connected with her students and provide them with all of the work they need. She has gone out of her way to individually write and draw the students letters. She has also sent them each individual videos daily to connect with them. I believe it is really important to check in with the people you care about frequently so they know you are there for them. 

I am someone who enjoys having a  bit of structure in my day, so I have already developed a pretty solid routine. This morning was no different from any other. I woke up at around 9 o’clock, ate breakfast downstairs at the table, and wrote out my agenda for the day in my journal. After I was done planning, I quickly organized my room and Face Timed one of my friends. When we were done talking, I got ready and began my homework. As of right now, I am writing this while simultaneously eating lunch and talking to a few of my friends on the phone. With all the extra time, you would think I would spread out my activities, but instead I continue to do everything at once. I do not think I will ever break that habit even with the many extra free hours I have to spare. 

This pandemic can be a very scary time for many people. I am so grateful that both of my parents are able to work from home at this time, but I am aware that not all families have this luxury. I hope that everyone stays safe and takes precautionary measures. I also wish everyone the best luck to all families during this stressful time.