Enforced Self-Isolation
Posted Fri, 03/27/20
Being a writer is isolating in itself, for the most part. However, the recent COVID-19 scare has made the isolation seem all too genuine, removing the self-imposed structure of my days in real time. Whether I want it or not, it is a simple fact of life for now. While I'm accustomed to solitude because of writing, having it enforced is a different kettle of fish. There is no avenue of escape, no sudden decision to head out the door on a whim.
The suggestion of "social distancing" has overtaken the norm, and none of us can predict how long it will endure.
I was witness to panic-buying at the local grocery store on more than one occasion. Some people adorned masks for protection, while others didn't appear to be bothered by the near-pandemonium. I've only had to go to the store a few times, thankfully. My significant other has always seen fit to bulk buy foodstuff and other products, so we've had no shortage of supplies.
Adding to the anxiety was a 5.7 earthquake in my community just over a week ago. No one was injured, thankfully, but during the quake books fell off shelves, and a few dishes toppled out from cupboards and landed on the kitchen counter. The ensuing aftershocks have been unpleasant as well, one just occurring as recent as yesterday. To say the least, it has been keeping us all on our toes.
For the past few weeks, I've kept busy with Bloodlust, and prepping for the imminent release of Glinhaven. When a break is needed, I head to the kitchen to concoct various meals, sometimes with the help of my significant other. We put together mini-pizzas on wheat pita bread, green salad with homemade olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing, pressure-cooker steaks and pork chops, scalloped potatoes and chili in the crock pot, biscuits and gravy, and an endless variety of muffins.
As confirmed cases of people with the virus increase by the day and the death toll rises as well, I watch the daily news with dismay. The situation is an international crisis, which I'm praying is resolved sooner rather than later.
Stay safe out
there.
