COVID-19; A Pandemic and Time That Will Never Be Forgotten

It’s here!  COVID-19 is among us!  Living in a small Town may give a false sense of security – almost like living in a bubble.  But when disasters happen and we hear and see what’s going on around us, it can be quite disconcerting.  Today’s particular issue? The COVID-19 Pandemic. We started hearing about it many months ago.  It was all the way over in China, no need for concern.  Then this sneaky virus started to travel and cross borders.  After it was satisfied that it harmed enough people, it made its way to the United States – yes – that’s us!  Still, most of us weren’t overly concerned…..just a few cases…..not to worry though, we’re indestructible, surely there’s a vaccine and a cure. Wash your hands, they said. Over time, this invisible monster continued to spread itself and show up just about everywhere.  New York City, Westchester, and nearby surrounding counties.  Conflicting news and information, not sure what we should do.  Warnings were being sent out….try to limit being in large groups – 500, 250, 100, 50, then NONE!  Finally, we had to be TOLD to stay home.  Close schools and all non-essential businesses.  We must stop the spread!  People are dying, hospitals are being overrun with patients, places like the Javitz Center are being retrofitted into hospitals, a Navy hospital ship “Comfort” was brought in to New York City to help with overflow of patients.  Healthcare workers, staff, and, emergency responders are beyond overwhelmed.  Did you ever imagine something like this could happen to us?  In the USA?  It’s unfathomable!

I started out by saying that living in a small town gives a false sense of security.  It does.  I consider myself very lucky to live in Warwick, NY, where there’s open space and lots to do without having to come in contact with many people. We have several farms that sell produce, eggs, milk, bread, local meats, chicken, and most essentials that one would need to sustain themselves.  I realize not everyone has this luxury, and I do take it for granted.  Now, more than ever, I’m so thankful that this is available to me.  As I take this sheltering in place very seriously, I’m finding that limiting my visits to local markets has forced me to hunker down and become creative in my cooking skills again.  I find that I really missed this.  When my children were young, I was fortunate enough to be a stay-at-home Mom; I loved cooking, baking, gardening, crafts, and all that comes with being home.  During this unprecedented time, I’ve been using what I’ve had in my freezer, pantry, and fridge; and I must say, it’s been fun and satisfying.  Of course, I’m missing some of my favorites; like nuts, fresh produce, and chocolate.  My cabinets and freezer are in shock about being so empty, but it’s giving me a chance to clean them out!  Soon I’ll need to strategize again and plan my trip out into the world and replenish.  I think what I’m trying to say is most of us, and I realize not all, have enough food to get us through a few weeks without having to go to the supermarket.  Do we go because we HAVE to, or because we WANT to.  Oh, yes, luckily I coincidentally bought a large pack of toilet paper before this virus came into our lives, so for now, I’m good with TP!  And, I’m fortunate to have a career that allows me to stay home – albeit difficult to practice Real Estate to the full extent while sheltering in place, I am finding ways to help my customers and clients navigate the current waves.

This pandemic is real.  Whether living in a small Town or large city, we need to understand the rapid spread of this invisible monster and believe it can infect anyone, including YOU!  Take heed to the warnings and stay-at-home orders.  Sanitize your surroundings and wash your hands.  If you’re in a position where your job is essential, thank you for doing what you do while putting yourself at risk every day.  If you’re in a position that is non-essential and have the ability to work at home, please stay-at-home!  Go out to stores only if you have to, and please WEAR A MASK!  Go out and enjoy the fresh air, but keep your distance from other people.

We can stop the spread!  We will stop the spread!  Let’s all do our part so we can get back to a normal life sooner than later.  #stopthespread #stayhome #savelives #inthistogether

Thank you!