The last couple of months we were told to stay home and we did. Everyone was home, the city and county said we had to stay home, so we followed directions. Now it’s getting harder, because there are decisions to be made. Businesses are opening up and we can technically go places and do things, but some of us are still unsure about safety issues.  When I go out in public, I’ll be wearing a mask, but will others?  And if I’m wearing one, and other people aren’t, am I safe? Will I be bullied if I’m in a mask and gloves?  Who do I depend on to enforce the 6-foot rule? Do I want to risk eating in a restaurant? All of these questions add a lot of stress to making the decision to go out.

Since I am working from home, I don’t NEED to go out.  I walk my dog early in the morning, and I get my groceries and anything else I need delivered.  Sometimes I drive to my daughter’s house and socialize with her in the driveway from the safety of my car.  I’ve gone to the ATM twice to get cash, but other than that, I have made the decision to stay home for a while longer. 

Though I’m home, I haven’t lost contact with the outside world.  I call friends and text with them every day.  I’m active on social media.  I do a ZOOM trivia night once a week some of my high school friends, and I chat with co-workers every day and have video meetings weekly.  I’m planning a virtual family reunion, and I’ve taken 3 online courses for fun.  And I CHECK-IN. 

I’ve identified 4 people in my life that I think would appreciate me checking in with them weekly.  They either live alone, or have problems in their lives that they want to talk about.  Sometimes we have a lengthy phone call, and sometimes I just send a “how are you?” text. Other times, it’s a comment on their Facebook page, or a funny meme sent to them.  Check out www.thecheckinproject.org.  People appreciate knowing that they matter!