I decided for this one I’d focus on the things I am looking forward to (as opposed to focusing on the things I’m missing out on). Please note the positive framing.

In-sink-erator – Oh. This is a biggie. On day 1 of lockdown mine stopped. It hums. I know I can fix it, but do I have the tools? No I do not. They are in storage – a non-essential business. So… no mulching food waste for me. When life is less restrained I will be delighted to be able to correct this enormous inconvenience.

BBQ – I have plans for a Weber charcoal BBQ. Good plans. And it’s on my ‘to-buy’ list. And has been for some time. I was just about to push ‘go’ and then… So after lockdown I am really looking forward to exploring the joy of slow-cooked charcoal-heated meaty joy.

Long drives and walks – I have grown to like these. Being able to drive a distance to places around Auckland I’ve not been to and getting out to see what I can see. To enjoy nature, and to get to understand this place in which I live. Soon. Normality will come back. Soon. Company on such walks always welcomed. Call me.

Teenagers – Mine are largely ambivalent. For them it’s been life as usual albeit without the usual demands on their time around music practice and church commitments. I have to admit that I am rather looking forward to seeing them again. In all their hairy, smelly, teenagery goodness.

Work colleagues – Oh do I have to? Fine. I’m missing my colleagues. It turns out that I’m the annoying guy in the office that checks in on everyone and tries to bring joy. I am really looking forward to that collegial interaction. Professional with some, extremely rude with others. I can’t wait!

Physical touch – All I’m going to say is that there is only so much self-touch one can indulge in without going a bit odd.

A note on gratitude: I have found that for me, whenever the world around me spins out of my control, it’s important to centre. To focus on only that which I can control. Which, of course, may be only focusing on controlling how I react and respond to what is going on.

I’m grateful for this time in isolation. I’ve reflected that I have come a long way in the last three years. The challenges I’ve faced have prepared me perfectly for this current climate.

I’m doing ok.

I hope you are also.

As always, if you need to talk let me know – I’m here.

^SD