Isolation Day 60: 2 Months in Lockdown
Hopefully, The End Is In Sight
It has been 60 days since we went into lockdown here at "Hope House" (well, technically a flat, but that doesn't quite roll off the tongue!). In those two months, I’ve managed to finish the hall floor, designed a Hackintosh (at least three times), redesigned the house (twice), spent far too much time window-shopping for things I can’t afford, lost a job, and gained a new one that I still haven't been able to start.
It’s been a whirlwind, but three big things have kept me going and stopped me from going barmy in our sleepy part of Bridlington.
What’s Kept Me Sane
- Abi, my wife: She has been by my side throughout it all. It’s been really nice to just sit back, chill out, put the world to rights, and hunt for our dream house online—even if those dreams always end up being completely unaffordable!
- Fortnite: It may be full of 12-year-olds having a go at each other, but playing together has been a lifeline. If the Battle Royale mode isn't your speed, I highly recommend Save the World. It’s a bit more relaxed and feels more like a traditional first-person shooter (the only downside is you can't play it offline).
- This Blog: It sounds strange, but sticking to a daily schedule of researching and writing has really helped me keep my head. Even though it feels like a lot of work sometimes—and viewership is modest unless the word "free" is in the title—I’ve genuinely enjoyed the process. It’s encouraged me to try new things and share them with you all.
Looking Ahead
I’m finally at a point where I’m a few days ahead on my posts, and it feels great to take the pressure off. If you had told me I’d enjoy writing on a schedule back when I was working on my dissertation, I might have slapped you, but it’s actually become quite enjoyable!
While I certainly don't want this to go on forever, having the time to work on the house, learn new skills, and prepare for the future has been a silver lining. Still, I really miss seeing friends and family, going to work, and just having a wander around town.
Hopefully, we’ll be heading toward a "new normal" soon. It probably won't be easy, but nothing ever is.
How have you found your lockdown experience? Have you learned any new skills or picked up any new hobbies? Let me know in the comments below!