Henrich: There are things to do at home in Sun City
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The first week of “sheltering in place” I did nothing except feel sorry for myself.
No activities at the rec centers, no cards, no neighbors to visit and no regimented exercise. Woe is me. I lived in my workout clothes or PJs.
Then I started to think what a great opportunity to get things done around the house. I made a list of things I wanted to do — wash woodwork, clean grout on kitchen floor, cupboards, drawers, closets, garage, patio, car, etc. I would do one project per day. For the woodwork, I would do one room per day. After all, this had to last me about 7-8 weeks.
My days started to look better. My husband and I enjoyed our coffee on the front patio greeting people as they did their morning walk or bike ride. When it was not so hot, we also enjoyed our four o’clock happy hour on the front patio. We talked, listened and laughed more than usual. A great opportunity to reconnect with our love for each other.
My prayer life took on a new meaning, too. I had slowed down to smell the roses. I didn’t run off to do something early in the morning. Such a peaceful time. The streamed Sunday services were wonderful.
Exercise began to get back on track. Forty-minute walk almost every morning. I was again enjoying beautiful mornings in Sun City. Greeting other walkers put a smile on my face and I hope theirs.
Now how could I help others? Opportunity presented itself when an 80-plus neighbor down the street could not get to doctor or physical therapy appointments because of her health. I took her where she needed to go. I also did her grocery shopping. I felt so useful and happy.
I am an avid bridge player. I missed my bridge and so did many of my friends. I taught several bridge players how to play online. Then I would setup a weekly schedule for twice per day. It was wonderful. We will play this way for the unforeseeable future.
My husband and I also watched several good series on Netflix and we read lots of books. We talked to our immediate family more (they wanted to make sure we were being good and taking this seriously). I am now completing a little journal about my life for my grandchildren.
I am looking forward to hugging my family and friends. But for now we will wave, say hi and move slowly forward.
