The COVID-19 new normal?

I went to my second-last swim practice for a while. There was more social distancing than usual as we didn’t all crowd into the showers afterwards - opting instead to wait our turn while talking about measures being taken in our workplaces. That’s when you realize just how complicated running an economy can be. One colleague works in government procurement so her office is scrambling to acquire everything from medical equipment to additional secure bandwidth so employees across the country can work from home.

Friends from the barn where Fancy lives have posted that there are lots more walkers on the streets and hiking trails. It appears that families are looking for things to do that allow social distancing while getting some exercise, especially for the kids. The introvert on the hiking trails found it a little crowded for her comfort, but the extrovert said the neighbourhood felt much friendlier than usual as everyone passed greetings as they walked. Local media are even starting to report on places to go for outdoor activities that meet the social distancing test.

I went to the grocery store to get a treat before visiting my parents and was greeted at the entrance by an employee who was wiping down the handles on all the shopping baskets before handing them out. That felt really old-fashioned and friendly. As I ended my visit, I reminded my parents to let me know when they needed anything so I could shop for them. Their response was that one of the neighbours was checking on them every day or so.

Could it be that getting outdoors, greeting people you don’t know, and caring for the vulnerable might become the new normal? I hope so.

Dad with a tiny slice of the pie I brought him (and his usual huge dollop of whipped cream).

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