Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last 10 days you know that the Seattle area is the epicenter of the US Coronavirus outbreak. Seattle is home for us, so we’ve been taking things a day at a time over here, careful to heed recommendations by our local health experts and avoid crowds to help stop the spread.
To that end, the day after Alex’s employer required folks to work from home, Alex and I decided it’s time we head east and hole up at The Lodge indefinitely. Since moving to the mountains on Saturday, Ben’s school is asking all those who can stay home to please do so.
To me, last week it felt like a veil of uncertainty was hanging over the Seattle area. No one knew what was going to happen next or how the events would unravel. It seems like the only thing that’s certain is that Covid-19 is here to stay for a while and it’s spreading like wildfire.
We are working to do our part and avoid crowds and gatherings and just keep to ourselves so we can help stop the spread. We’ve been washing our hands so much they’re cracked and bleeding.
At this point, my biggest concern is the spread of the virus. We’re at a lower risk of complications if we do contract the virus, but I sure don’t want to contribute to its spread.
We are well-stocked here and so very grateful for our pantry and storage space. We have plenty of food and supplies to last us quite a while.
I’ve already started compiling a master list of ideas of things we can do at our home, both inside and outside, as well as local outings I can take the kids to do. We have nature as our playground out here and there’s an abundance of easy hiking trails I am eager to take the kids to. We’ll bring binoculars {just ordered the kids a new nature kit!} and our field guide and Ben’s camera and go on our own little expedition and birding adventures, we’ll do the “Art Walk” at The Sleeping Lady and watch the season change right before our very eyes. {PLEASE send further ideas if you have them!!}
So, for the foreseeable future, we’ll be living in the mountains. I feel so grateful that we have this escape and we’re able to isolate ourselves. I’m positive we’re going to go a bit bonkers; however, I really do want to relish in this opportunity to spend time together as a family.
Sure, Alex will be working remotely during the day, which presents its own set of challenges, but we’ll see so much more of him this way. The unstructured time will be hard for Ben, but I get to spend all day for the next several weeks making memories with both of my children.
Our hearts are with the world, though, as we navigate these difficult times and learn more about the virus. We’re committed to doing our part to help stop the spread. Stay safe out there!
