There have been a ton of think pieces the past few days about the one-year threshold we're all about to cross. And it has indeed had me thinking about the last time I ate in a restaurant, or shopped in a grocery store. The last time I went inside a gas station, enjoyed a leisurely stroll around Target with a coffee, or hugged my sister.
For me, all of these things were a year ago next week.
Mentally, I don't like to dwell on the past if I can, and I certainly don't want to fixate on things I can't control. So instead, I've been keeping my head down and doing the work I need to do, and taking care of myself in small ways. Like chicken noodle soup and saltines for lunch, reading in bed instead of getting up early, rich hot chocolate for dessert, and letting myself rest when I need to. Taking 20 minutes to give myself a manicure on Monday morning, or taking a long afternoon shower.
Just overall being kinder to myself. And choosing cozy over everything.
Because everyday gives me more hope that this experience will soon be behind us, and we can begin working on a new future…but only if I mentally survive till then.
