Our "drop dead" deadline has now come and gone, and we are still here. Arizona has now been in a state of emergency for 2 weeks. While we currently do not have a "stay in home" quarantine, I think most people are choosing that for themselves. In some ways, me and the kids' day to day life hasn't changed all that much. I'm not sure what that says about us, but there it is.
Similar to other states, all the schools here are closed until April 10th. Since we started Home School this year, the kids still get up and do their school work in the morning. I think since that's our normal routine, it's best to try and keep things as stable as possible. They are somewhat disappointed by this, since most of the kids they know are off school completely currently, (although I think many are transitioning to online school).
Thankfully we had made a Costco run recently and have toilet paper. We are pretty stocked, provisions-wise. We generally buy in bulk anyways, and additionally we recently had purchased half of pig, so our freezer is filled. So far I've been cleaning my house more than usual, cooking all sorts of various meals, organizing my patio shed, completing puzzles and generally hanging out with my kids. We've also done some planting, mostly for fun, and I'm getting ready to do some painting. Another activity we've been having a blast with, is creating videos that feature our pets....talking. The kids and I think it's hysterical. My husband, not at all. Oh well, you can't win them all.
My jobs are mostly on hold. I had just had a close of escrow last week, so that transaction was completed, and my new buyers and sellers are deciding to hold off a little. The dance studio is closed per the government, and that has left us as teachers scrambling to find alternative ways to keep our students engaged. Some may feel that it's not important, but I think it's a good outlet, not only ourselves, but for the kids. Dance can be a tremendous stress reliever. We've been reaching out via Zoom and other similar platforms. Not only does it keep all of us at least a little active, but it helps keep the kids connected to their dance family and can help give a sense of community. Connections are important during a social distancing situation... at least I think so. Plus, my kids got to help out with my videos and are my official videographer and DJ.
This week my hubby decided to take us out on an excursion. We loaded up the guns and headed off into the desert to do some target practicing. It is such a beautiful time of year here in Arizona. Beautiful blue skies, gorgeous wildflowers and perfect weather made for a really enjoyable time. It was nice to get out and away from the house entirely. Surprisingly, a lot of other people must have had the same idea, because the area was teaming with people. Our usual spot was open though, and we had fun teaching the kids gun safety and appreciation of the Arizona Desert.
All in all, the quarantine hasn't been so bad, at least not for us. Maybe it's just me, but on one level I kinda of like the complete lack of social pressure. On a personal note, I am hoping it lifts soon. My husband just threatened to shave his head if he can't get to a salon or barber soon. This really put things into dire perspective. I told him there a lot of things I can live with, and I'm not sure that's one of them. I volunteered to cut it for him, but he looked at me very skeptically. I guess he's remembering my foray into dog grooming (poor Max!), but I think it would be worth the try. I may be getting desperate!
