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Love in the Time of Covid-19




(Okay, this really isn't about love; I just liked the title.) What are the best ways to keep from going stir crazy in this time of isolation?

1.      Sex: Yes of course, but let’s be honest, even if you are young, sex has its limitations. I mean, you can do it until your parts wear out, but then what?

2.      Reading: Libraries are closed and book stores are closed. So, you are relegated to online shopping (not quite the same as strolling through your local bookstore, but it’ll do for now I guess), and reading the books you already have at your house. This is where I have an advantage. We have enough books in my house to put a sizable dent in a forest. Some are the books my wife has bought and some were bought by me. Some were bought for our son who has now moved away, yet his books (and some other things) are still here, lingering like the scent of burnt rubber at the Indianapolis Speedway, long after the race is over.  So, I find that there are many books in the house that I have not yet read. (I will have no problem meeting my Goodreads reading challenge this year). Many local bookstores have an online presence and I encourage people to order from them rather than the big monster online store that starts with an “A” because the smaller stores need your business right now.

3.      Movies, cable, Netflix, YouTube, etc.: Yes, we have been watching lots of video. While I will say, it is nice to catch up on some shows, it is starting to lose its thrill. My butt is getting pretty sore.

4.      Walking, biking, exercise in general (besides sex): This is becoming more and more essential. See No. 3 above.

5.      Puzzles. A nice diversion if you happen to have them. I heard they are getting hard to find through online shopping.

6.      Board games: If you are not alone, and if you have some, this will pass the time and use your brain (depending on the game).

7.      Video games/online games: I do a little bit of this but I tire of it quickly, which is a good thing. If you find yourself addicted to these, see No. 4 above.

8.      Cooking/baking: This situation has encouraged me to try new things. I made bread last weekend. I made an interesting cream sauce for our potatoes. I tried new cookie recipes. Of course, if you do too much of this, see No. 4 above.

9.      Meditating: In whatever fashion or form that appeals to you.

10.  Artistic output: This is your chance! Write the great novel. Hone your drawing skills. Knit. Learn to play a musical instrument if you have one laying around (surely there must be a YouTube class on that).

11.  Gardening: If you have access to a garden, go for it.

12.  Interact with whoever you happen to be stuck with–  um – living with. Now is the time to have meaningful conversations with your housemates: children, siblings, parents. And it is also good to be interacting with those you are not living with by phone, email, and good old-fashioned cards and letters.

Whatever you do; however, you pass the time, be creative and keep safe.

(My novel Star Liner, is now available in paperback or as an e-book through Amazon and other online sources).
link to Star Liner

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