Pandemic life changes – the world changed in an instant
No sarcasm intended (honestly), but I truly hope this post ‘finds you well’, healthy and still possessing some spark and zest for life; and if not, then I’m wishing and praying things get brighter for you from here on. 💛x
Without spelling it all out, we all know last year unfolded in a way none of us had ever anticipated, like an unwelcome ‘jack in the box’ for the most part! 🎢
Journalling the ongoing rollercoaster of events is going to make for some pretty interesting reading in future history books, that’s for sure! 📚
Unprecedented
Like a swift relay race, 2021 continues on where 2020 left off, the pace hasn’t really slowed down and new notions of ‘normal’ seem to be evolving each day.
Bloggers have written about all this to no end, understandably, it’s unprecedented, and many of you have shared insights into how your lives have changed personally, in good ways and the ‘not so good’. 🤔
Some have suffered irreparably, with businesses or loved one’s lost – my heart goes out to you.
Other’s have been more fortunate and found blessings in disguise. ✨
Then there are those of us who are still processing what’s happened and what might lay ahead, reflecting on how our priorities have changed, and how we want to try and shape our lives, moving forward.
Cliches aside, ‘the meaning of life’ is becoming an ever more popular philosophical question.
Life changing decisions
Some of you have already made firm conclusions on the above and acted on them – making firm pandemic life changes – life changing decisions or interesting u-turns in your everyday lives, e.g:
- Made big changes to your diet and fitness
- Changed career, quit a job, or seeking a new job
- Lost or strengthened existing relationships (family/partners/friends)
- Moved house to another part of the country or another country altogether
- Gained or strengthened your spiritual beliefs
- Changed your political views in some way
- Committed to stopping or starting to do certain things differently
Sometimes it takes unavoidable and unexpected significant events to push us into making new life changing decisions.
Has the pandemic led to any new life changing decisions for you?
Maybe nothing major has changed for you, and that’s fine, I’m not trying to say it should or shouldn’t, each of us will react and feel differently about things and we’re fully entitled to.
But if things have changed for you…..💫
If you’re willing to share below – I’m curious to hear more examples of changes you have made, or thinking of making, in light of this seemingly new world we’ve entered into. 🌍
It’s interesting and often inspiring to hear these, and may offer reassurances to others who are grappling with similar thoughts and pandemic life changes.
Tell us in the comments – there’s no right or wrong, just whatever it is for you….
Halbarbera
Just getting by: healthy, far from wealthy, unwisely and/or otherwise!
Cherryl
Like the majority of us then lol 😊
ofsunandsand
Wow. Well written! Really like the way you write.
Cherryl
Aww, thank you so much 🙏💛
Island Traveler
True
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sunisanthosh
I left my 20 years job and the Pandemic taught me many things to look forward . Spend a little time for activities and relaxation. I think it will be all for the safe journey of tomorrow. 💜
Cherryl
Glad you were able to make a change that makes you happier, and with more time for the little things! 20 years was a long time – cheers to a new direction🥂🤗
Patricia Barrett
#pandemiclife
I’ve certainly been a lot less healthy the last year and put on some weight.
I’ll be glad to get back into normal healthier routines again.
Cherryl
I hope you manage to get back to some of that soon Patricia 🤸🏼♂️🔆
rebeccabeesley
#pandemiclife I’ve learnt a lot about myself – I think I feel far more content in myself and feel ok about not being able to rush about all the time as we would in “normal” life. I’ve realised that my family are the most important thing to me and I’m so glad to have been in a home together with them and not alone as some people have spent lockdown.
We’ve been homeschooling throughout and this may become permanent depending on the pressure to return to school whilst it is still unsafe to do so.
I’ve recognised how tough this situation can be for different people and different age groups and life stages.
Cherryl
You’re so right, definitely tough for many, even though they might give the impression everything’s fine.
#Kindness 💛✨
Victoria Prince
Definitely! That I need to get out of this rut, and find what makes me happy. It’s been a horrendous few years and the timing of the pandemic has just brought a lot of realisations home to roost. All those months of shielding and the support network it opened up gave me so much food for thought, and made me question so many things. I’m hoping to be able to make a major move, but baby steps… #pandemiclife
Cherryl
I love this – it resonates. Baby steps – yes, absolutely….🤗💫
Donald
#pandemiclife this last year has been a nightmare
Cherryl
In many ways yes, and some have suffered more than others 😔
Angela Jones
For me its taken a lot of confidence away. I am single so I used to look forward to my Saturday nights out with all of my friends. Its been great that we kept in touch by telephone and online. But since September have seen only one friend about 2 weeks ago. One I have only seen once in the last 12 months. We used to all love getting dressed up but now the thought of doing all that again no longer appeals. We now prefer to start meeting up for walks. #pandemiclife
Cherryl
I here that – I think a lot of things have lost their appeal compared to pre lockdown. Meeting up for walks gives you views, nature, exercise ….as well as a catch up so not a bad alternative really 🌳🔆 (not sure I can even walk in some of my heels anymore lol 🙃)
Kim W
We couldn’t get a shopping order online so managed to get organic vegetable deliveries which as well are delicious are healthier and worth a little extra. We feel better too, less chemicals in our bodies.
Kim W
#pandemiclife
Cherryl
Great move, glad you’re feeling healthier too👌🥒🥕
webkin1979
The pandemic has made me feel like life is too short and has helped me to reach out and get more help with my mental health! #pandemiclife
Cherryl
Sending you happy thoughts✨😊 great decision.
Claire little
#pandemiclife
AJ
More homeworking! I never thought I’d like working from home but it has made such a difference not having to commute. I’d always want to work flexibly between home and office now.
#pandemiclife (commenting again because I forgot the hashtag!)
AJ
More homeworking! I never thought I’d like working from home but it has made such a difference not having to commute. I’d always want to work flexibly between home and office now.
Cherryl
Hopefully you’ll be able to make this a permanent arrangement AJ, it definitely suits a lot of better than the 9-5 commuting life 😊
Jackie Talbot
#pandemiclife I had heart surgery during the pandemic when we come out of this I intend to travel more and enjoy time with my loved ones
Angela Jones
My Dad had open heart surgery just a few weeks before the first lockdown.
Cherryl
I hope he’s been making a good recovery so far Angela 💛🙏
Cherryl
Lovely, and wishing you a speedy recovery Jackie 🌟
Erica Hughes
I’ve decided that I don’t want to return to a traditional workplace #pandemiclife
Cherryl
I hope you you can make this happen Erica💫
Irene Murdoch
Biggest change, no work for a year as I am a self- employed piano teacher. Positive outcome, spending quality time with the Fiance and both getting fit walking the dog every day. #pandemiclife
Cherryl
Fab, so many unexpected plus points to enjoy✨
Oriana Donlevy
#pandemiclife I vow to say Yes more. Lets do more when we can again, say yes to the kids ideas! I may regret it but I need to do more!!
Cherryl
💫 Love this, I could take a leaf out of that book too Oriana!
Liz T
#pandemiclife I’d love to travel more 🙂
Cherryl
Always a great decision👍 happy future travels Liz, whenever they happen ✈️🔆
Candyfloss
#pandemiclife I’ve been working at home and at school but I’ve had more time than usual. So during the first lockdown I started learning Arabic and during the last, Romanian. I can already have some little converations with EAL students and they really appreciate it.
Cherryl
That’s really impressive and useful for you too, a great use of spare time 🙌
Deborah Hambleton
#pandamiclife – I have learned to appreciate things I took for granted before. On Friday, when we were allowed, 4 of us gathered in a garden, it was freezing but we wrapped up in blankets (which we all brought our own) and laughed and chatted – little things that make a big difference
Cherryl
That’s lovely – keep enjoying the little things! 😊
Nicola Lang
#pandemiclife The pandemic is helped heal the rift in my relationship with my brother. He caught Covid and was quite ill and it taught us both how important we were to each other.
Cherryl
Bless 💛 really lovely to hear that Nicola. I hope you brother’s back to full health again #family💫
Heather Tinkler
#pandemiclife We will be wearing masks a lot more even after its not mandated. We also learnt how important it is to get out and exercise. Twitter: @01zesty01
Cherryl
Deciding to take better care of our health and fitness – very popular life changing decision👍🏋🏼♂️🤾🏼♀️
susan leake
#pandemiclife i have now become accustomed to social distancing. Standing back in shops, stepping aside when out walking, wearing a mask and avoiding using cash as payment and the sanitising of hands. I will hope to continue these practices once everywhere opens up and it is no longer law to do so as it is a proven way of avoiding picking up diseases deadly as well as the more common.
Cherryl
Glad you’ve found a personal motivation for the future from the habits we’ve had to adopt so far – best wishes 🔆😊
Alex McKay
#pandemiclife I gave up my job just before the pandemic to take some time out. During that time I have refund my love of reading and now am training to be a librarian!
Cherryl
Brilliant – love that, and it’s great that you were able to take some time out. All the best with your new career Alex 📚😊
Susan B
#pandemiclife On the plus side, a greater appreciation of simple pleasures like going to the garden centre on the bus or walking into the supermarket without queuing. On the minus side, a greater awareness of individualism within society.
Cherryl
More appreciation of life’s simple pleasures – hopefully a lasting mind shift for many of us
🤞🤗
Emma Franklin
I feel the pandemic has resulted in me questioning things more and perhaps now don’t take everything the news or the government says so literally. It has also made me really appreciate the smaller things In Life. #pandemiclife
Cherryl
I’m with you there Emma 😊💫
Lyndsey Bruce
#pandemiclife I broke up with my fiance, packed up and moved 330 miles north to help my parents (in their 80s), as my mum has Alzheimer’s
colin daniel
#pandemiclife I’m reaching 50 so decided to get healthier as I have a 7 year old. I’m pretty fit for my age as walk 12 miles a day in my job. I’ve stopped the booze eat healthier and I’ve lost 2 stone I’ve worked all through pandemic but feel so much more healthier and fitter.
Cherryl
That’s really inspiring, health is wealth!! 🤗
Cherryl
So sorry to hear that Lyndsey, certainly sounds like a lot of big decisions there – I hope all goes well and you have plenty of support as a carer, best wishes 💛
Karen Usher
Personally, no new life changing decisions for me, Ive been super lucky to continue working during the pandemic (Im a paramedic) and yes I have been at the forefront but Im also so thankful for what I get to do and help people. I think if anything I value life a little bit more and enjoy spending time with the family on my days off!
Cherryl
That’s great Karen, and very important work you’re doing there ✨
kelliec3
#pandemiclife I’ve given up eating take away so that’s good
Cherryl
Good move, I’m sure your body will thank you for that!! 😊
Emma Davison
No changes for the better yet. More work and less physical exercise. Hopefully we can stop working from home and get more exercise soon.
Cherryl
If you want to get back to the workplace I hope they make than an option for you soon. WFH isn’t for everyone. More work…hope that’s not ‘too much’ Emma. 😊
mywombling
#pandemiclife For me the pandemic has altered me and my families priorities. We have totally loved the time together and to say my kids have gone out there way to be helpful round the home , we have focused on improving the home and making sure our mental health hasn’t suffered .
Cherryl
Lovely, great to hear these positives 🤗
Halbarbera
Retired 13 years ago so not much has really changed, and like the man in you photo stocked up on a lot of toilet paper! But do miss seeing my daughter and my grandsons. But hopefully that will change.
Cherryl
Yes that seems to be changing now (rule of six etc) – let’s hope we can have a lockdown free summer this time – right through 😊
Meryll Thomas
#pandemiclife In a way it has been wonderful to work from home and I only wish this could continue. I usually have a 2 hour commute one way, so working from home has been wonderful and I have managed to reclaim so much time spent travelling.
Cherryl
😟 If you’ve worked effectively from home all this time, most employers are positive about keeping it going, at least for some of the week, healthier work-life balance and all that….Here’s hoping for you Meryll 🙏
Sara Guy
#pandemiclife I have beaten my binge eating addiction and had a gastric bypass just over 3 weeks ago. I have already lost 27lbs
Cherryl
Oh wow, that’s certainly some big changes there, well done Sara, I hope everything’s healing up well and you’re feeling good. 27lbs, that’s some serious dedication, hats off✨🥂✨ roll on summer…😉
Deborah Preston
#pandemiclife I have decided to retire early to spend time with my family and do things off my bucket list
Cherryl
🥂 I’m raising a glass to you, good for you – not a bad time to retire tbh. Enjoy your new freedom Deborah💫
Gemma Jones
After being together 5 and losing both our fathers, my partner and I decided to get married during lockdown with only our mothers as witnesses. March 29th we married, hoping for a summer celebration 🤵♂️❤️👰♀️💒
Cherryl
😥🥰 Bless!! So sorry for your loss, but congratulations to you both🥂🔆
Chloe Brill
#pandemiclife have found the pandemic really eerie all the emptyiness
Cherryl
Yes, there has definitely been a eeriness about the whole thing – even now….hope you’re managing to balance the gloom with a bit of cheer Chloe, no matter how small.
Hoping for brighter days soon. 🙏✨
Victoria Bazley
Definitely taking things a bit slower and work will be different going forward. I won’t be in the office full time and my husband won’t have to travel to London and can just work full time from home – which is fantastic. I must admit I’m quite anxious going back to a kind of normal. I do feel I have regressed a bit in social situations #pandemiclife
Cherryl
Glad you’ve both found a better work-life balance and yes, social situations (if/when we get back to that) might feel like new phenomena lol, might take a bit of getting used to 🙃
Anthea Holloway
Things have changed for me in that I have spent so much time at home and I miss seeing my family very much and going out too. Hopefully it is going to get better but I doubt that life will ever be the same again! Keep cheerful is my philosophy!
Cherryl
I love your philosophy Anthea, easier said than done sometimes but still a good mindset to aim for 🔆✨🌼
gouldie7
I have somehow managed to fall out (big time) with my siblings and parents, as we attended a funeral in November and kept away/socially distanced from everyone.
All the other people there were hugging on another, and we have been told that we should have done the same, even though my wife has been shielding!
Not spoken to any of them since…..
Cherryl
That’s awful. This whole thing has created tensions and divisions we would never have dreamed up a year ago!! I hope things heal between you all – on the grand scheme of things those disagreements will probably become water under the bridge in time 🙏💛
Chris
Nothing has changed in my life since the start of the pandemic, to be honest. #Pandemiclife
Cherryl
I hope all is well all the same Chris 🤗
alice lightningAlice lightning
The pandemic has made me realise more now than ever the importance of keeping your family and loved ones safe and how fragile life that we take for granted everyday is and how easy to lose a near and dear one love and respect 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 and don’t fret over things that don’t matter x
Cherryl
Great decisions to act on Alice, can’t disagree with that.👏🙌😊
Elaine Pett
#pandemiclife it’s been the first year of retirement so slower than expected
Cherryl
Congratulations on your retirement, but I’m sure the past year’s events were not part of the retirement plan!! Enjoy it as much as you can all the same Elaine 💫
Sara Goodman
#pandemiclife I was mugged about ten years ago and my walks on Hampstead Heath changed completely, I stuck to paths and places where I felt safe. This pandemic has really heightened my awareness of nature, and as a result I’ve really wanted to venture further onto the heath than I have in recent years. I’ve realised that most of the places I’ve wanted to walk are pretty busy anyway, and I’ve spent longer, and walked further than I have in years. I’ve won and I love it 🙂
Cherryl
That’s lovely to hear, must have been difficult after what happened to you – Ipleased it turned out to feel safer than you thought. Nature really is one of life’s free medicines 🔆 🌳
Stay safe 😊
Konlish
Using the Food and things Waste App Olio to get myself out collecting things for myself and for a charity called Food not Bombs that serve food to people on the street. Cycled at times to 5 houses for non contact collections covered 20 km on my bike and in 4 moths collected about 40kg of pasta and rice. Helped alot with my mental health. #pandemiclife
Cherryl
This sounds brilliant Konlish, #kindness in action, a great way to use time and give back.😊
Andrew Hindley
#pandemiclife Went through most of the pandemic eating lot’s of takeaways and unhealthy foods and drinking way too much alcohol, got a wake up call just over 2 months ago when I visited my GP for my annual check-up, I was 5 stone overweight, with high blood pressure, high cholesterol,and was also told that I also have kidney failure, I went home that day and decided to do something about it, I started eating healthy foods and went onto an immediate diet started exercising and also stopped drinking alcohol, 2 months later I have lost 2 stone, my blood pressure is now under control and hopefully my cholesterol will be coming down as well, I feel fit as a fiddle and also feel 5 years younger and full of energy and less tired, How amazing is the human body!
Cherryl
High five to you Andrew, wow you’ve lost 2 stone and sorted that blood pressure out quickly!! You’re right, the human body is a walking miracle, very precious – and equally, so is the mind, when it decides to achieve things 😉 🍏
Angie McDonald
#pandemiclife Lockdown has definitely shown me who my true friends are and who I want to make time for when it ends. We’ve had to postpone our wedding and find ways to spend time together and apart during lockdown whilst practising lots of self-care
Cherryl
Tough times for sure – best wishes for the wedding when the day arrives Angie 😊💫
Trev L
#pandemiclife Although I was thinking of it before he pandemic, last year in lockdown I became fully vegan
Cherryl
That really is a big life change – congrats on that, a difficult shift for many to make – takes a lot of discipline. I hope it’s going well so far Trev 👍🌱
Helen Costello
Just a desperate need to appreciate even the smallest celebration and being able to get together with other people that we all took for granted BEFORE!
Cherryl
Yes, it’s been humbling on a large scale – wishing you lots of together-times soon Helen🤞✨
Tania Stannard
#pandemiclife
I should have had a big white wedding with 110 people in May when we we went into total lockdown. It made me realise its people and loved ones who are important not material things. We have both lost people close to us. Life is so fragile, no-one is promised a tomorrow. In October we went ahead and got married with 15 people and had a truly wonderful day. I felt truly blessed looking at the faces of those we hold most dear. My lesson learnt was if you love someone, tell them and tell them often xx
Cherryl
Aww, Tania, it’s lovely to hear that the past year has helped you to appreciate your loved ones more, sometimes it takes unexpected events to serve as a sharp reminder about what’s important Congrats on the wedding 🤗
CD
#pandemiclife I went into thinking it would only last a few weeks and everything would be back to normal.
How wrong I was. Homeschooling two children and Joe Wicks became the norm. We started baking every Friday and have carried on ever since the children really enjoy this. I was diagnosed, surgery and treatment for cancer through spring/summer last year, it was a total shock, had to go to ever appointment on my own. From this I now do daily exercises, cut out alcohol, red meat, processed meat, dairy. So been experimenting with vegan foods with lovely results. Keep positive.
Cherryl
Wow, sounds like you’ve had quite a challenging year. I hope things feel more manageable now, and your health is on the up🙏💫
Rebecca Woodthorpe
#pandemiclife
Angie Jackson
I think I’ve realised how productive it can be working from home, I actually much prefer it and it’s scaring me having to to go back to the office and spending less time with my husband. I’ve felt so much more rested without commuting it’s so much better for my health! #pandemiclife
Cherryl
That’s great Angie, WFH has certainly helped a lot of us realise the benefits.
Gill HM
Once it is safe to leave the house and venture further afoot, I intend to shop locally whenever possible. I have never used Amazon much, but the emphasis must now be on helping local businesses who seem to have come off worst from the lockdowns. Many have gone under, lost for good. I think it’s our civic duty to help those firms that are still trading get back on their feet.
GillHM
#pandemiclife
Cherryl
I do agree, great decision – having been a bit of an Amazon addict in the past. It seems like Amazon are becoming the one stop shop for pretty much everything and small businesses just can’t compete. Even if it means paying a few pounds more, I’m certainly making an effort to buy local or from smaller online companies. 👍 🛒
Jo Young
#pandemiclife My husband has only worked 6 of the last 12 months, we’ve realised that we really don’t need to spend much money to live nicely and, with all of this time together, that we can definitely survive retirement together lol.
Cherryl
Love this!! 😊
Sarah K
#pandemiclife I’m now working from home and just being at home and having a bit more free time with no commute has made me feel much more like retiring early or switching to part time work. I’m really lucky to still have a secure job I know but I now want more time for family and hobbies and less work stress.
Cherryl
That’s great, this whole thing has helped you re-evaluate the balance of things in your life….something we should all probably stop and do more often. 9-5 rat race living doesn’t have to be the template. 🤗
Craig Bowles
I think the biggest change for me is deciding to live my life for now, the pandemic has shown us that we and our loved ones are not invincible and we should cherish every moment #pandemiclife
Cherryl
I couldn’t agree more Craig, absolutely 😊✨
Abrahan
No life changing decision during the pandemic. I have got enough just coping with the way things are at the moment
#pandemiclife
Cherryl
I understand, yes, it’s definitely a lot and still unfolding 😔
laurensaylesxoblog
Hmmm It’s not lead to anything life changing so far however has really got me thinking about a major change in job having being in my job for 8 years and that I really want to travel as I’ve not yet being on a plane, definitely made me think of the things I want to get out there and do! Xxx
Cherryl
Fabulous – when it’s time for a change you just know. I hope you find a new job that’s perfect for you. Your first ever plane ride will be so exciting (hopefully), happy future travels Lauren ✈️🔆
laurensaylesxoblog
Aww thank you lovely xxx
Kerry Wild
#pandemiclife I am going to try and find a new job as this pandemic has really brought home the fact that life really is too short and i need a change and to feel a bit happier. I am also , once things open back up stop putting off doing the things i have always wanted to try so i guess being more spontaneous.
Cherryl
I love these – great decisions. Fingers crossed you find a new job you like soon Kerry. Planning and more planning is great but this past year has shown how quickly plans can evaporate – so yes, cheers to a bit more spontaneity 🥂💫
claire woods
I’ve found working from home more enjoyable. I’d like to continue this a few days a week.
Cherryl
Here, here. Looks like that will very likely be the case for many of us (who want it) – lots of advantages to employers with a more blended working arrangement. 👍 🏡
Tracy Newton
I have learnt to stand up for myself. I got sick of running around after every one
Cherryl
🥂 Fabulous decision, and I hope that’s going well so far.
Felicity Williams
#pandemiclife During lockdown I have become more technology savvy, talking to my daughter and grand daughter on Facetime. My husband and I have spent a lot more time in our garden during lockdown and have loved the birds visiting. It has been a real eye opener xx
Cherryl
Brilliant – and yes, birds in the garden have been great company while working from home too lol 🐦
Michael Rattray
As a Social Care Worker my life hasn’t changed that much. Work is just a lot more stressful.
Michael Rattray
#pandemiclife
Cherryl
I can imagine – more stressful and challenging than ever under the circumstances – no let up ….glad you’ve been able to keep going so far – take care Michael, and take time out where you can, re-charge.😌🌾🔆
Peter Watson
No life changing decisions for me during the pandemic.#pandemiclife
Cherryl
I hope that because all is well for now 🤗Thanks for commenting
Hazel Rea
We switched to online shopping, video calls to family and friends, we had a digital Christmas instead of the children and partners coming home for our family Christmas – it was enjoyable in a different way! We started doing YouTube exercise (hasfit is marvellous and free) and we will definitely keep that up – we were surprised how enjoyable it was, especially when done in the garden in sunshine. I think the whole experience has made us value the small things in life more – we were always connected with nature (we rescue hedgehogs in distress and take them to the local haven when necessary, enthusiastic recyclers etc.) but now feel even closer to it as it has been so obviously shown just how fragile the modern way of life is.
Cherryl
Yes, life is very fragile indeed, and we’ve been pushed to reflect on this more – it’s lovely that you’re rescuing those poor hedgehogs – bless ’em 🦔😊
Bev
Well, just as we went into the first lockdown, I was coming out of my own, self-imposed lockdown because I was having chemotherapy. I had plans – there are things I wanted to do and places I wanted to go – nothing major – just a canal boat and a trip to York – little things I’ve always wanted to do or do again but this time with my husband. I sat and watched as all my neighbours just carried on doing what they wanted with no thought at all to stopping or slowing this pandemic. I discovered that I have a strong dislike of selfish people. I know they didn’t like being locked down so carried on going out and socialising – I understand that – but some of us with life limiting illnesses just want that “one more time” you see/hear about in the soaps/films. One more paddle in the sea – one more time in the cable cars…little things like that. It made me perhaps unreasonably angry that some just carried on doing what they felt like with no regard to the safety of others.
On the bright side, I reconnected with my husband – the stress of being told my cancer had returned and was now incurable followed by the year of chemotherapy had taken its toll on us, badly. A year of our own company has really done us the world of good – sometimes we binge watched Lost or The Office, sometimes we sat and talked, sometimes we picnicked in the garden and sometimes we just sat, together, thanking whoever that I am still here.
I also started writing a book about living with cancer – a humorous one, if you can imagine such a thing. It’s the book I wish I could have read when I was diagnosed. No woe is me, just truth and a laugh now and then!
Stay safe, everyone.
#pandemiclife
Cherryl
What you have shared is humbling to read Bev, I’m truly sorry to hear what you have been going through and still going through. It’s hard to complain about losing privileges (on the grand scheme of things), when I stop to think of the challenges others are battling through, like yourself.
I’d love to read the book once it’s finished – injecting humour into it says a lot about your spirit 🤗✨ it can’t be easy. Happy for you to send me a link when it’s available.
Praying a miracle comes your way, and thanks for reading 💛
Cherryl
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Kelly Y
#pandemiclife Introvert so lock down was easy…. saved a lot too. I’ve discovered I shouldn’t force myself to socialise if that’s not who I am.
Kelly Y
Introvert so lockdown has been easy for me…I’ve saved a lot more this way too. I’ve discovered I don’t have to force myself to socialise if that’s not who I am!
Cherryl
I’m glad you have adapted well to it Kelly, and I think sometimes we forget that not everyone ‘needs’ to be around people every day to feel good. Saving more money has been a plus point for me too. 💷 ✨
I think if/when you want to socialise you will (with the right person/people/crowd), no need to force it just for the sake of it – do what’s comfortable for you. 😊
Thanks for sharing
Ritchie Dee
#pandemiclife I discovered that I miss very little from pre-pandemic and am quite happt in quarantine.
Cherryl
That’s great, honestly, there are things about pre-pandemic life that I don’t miss either, and some of the changes we’ve made as a result of the lockdowns have worked out for the better 😊💫
Emma Nicol
Shielding in my house for a year has made me realise I should get out as much as possible with family & friends and live life to the full #pandemiclife
Cherryl
👍✨ I hope you are keeping well, and looking forward to the shielding measures being lifted very soon.
Kim
One change was not being able to go to Jamaica to see family in 2020. That has been hard but glad for the technology to keep in touch and ‘see’ each other. I pray all has been well with you and yours.
Cherryl
Thanks Kim, all is well on my end thankfully. Sorry your travel plans are on pause, but yes, it’s great to be able to connect and interact online at least. Hoping the future gets brighter💫
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couragetoblog
Beautiful pictures and great post!
Cherryl
Thank you 🤗
vinneve
Here in New Zealand though we are covid free in the community now we have experienced being on a lockdown especially in Auckland and I know how it feels like. Our first lockdown it feels like an opportunity to be with your family more and doing things that you never thought you will like or love and discovering new passion in life. Also keeping your mental health in good order by exercising however short it may be we need it to keep things clear in our mind and try to be more positive. I know it is harder now adays with lockdowns everywhere in some countries. Just hang on there try to discover new things you may like.
Cherryl
Glad to hear it’s Covid-free where you are, and yes, the lockdowns have given some of us more time to nurture new interests and passions for sure.😊🔆
Lynden Vinson
#pandemiclife thought me to go easy with myself and the judgment i have of myself 🙂
Cherryl
I’m glad you’ve decided to be kinder to yourself #selfcare 🤗
miss lucy higgins
#PandemicLife I’ve been shielding at home on my own since last March and the past year has definitely taught me the importance of family and friends and not taking things for granted. Also I think its helped me appreciate the little things like being able to enjoy a coffee in a cafe or just spending time with my neices and nephews and being silly together. Another thing ive really noticed is how comforting human touch is, not being able to have a hug from my mum or family members has been so hard. I think its really taught me to just appreciate the everyday, however mundane that is and find joy in all the small things
Cherryl
Living in the moment and enjoying those simple things – you’re absolutely right Lucy – the pandemic has highlighted how healthy and important those things are 🤗🔆
Hayley Cooper
#pandemiclife I have always suffered with anxiety and during the pandemic i actually got the time to address this and seek help I know have learnt how to take care of my mind and body and i hoep to carry this on fully when normal life resumes
Cherryl
I’m so glad you were able to take those steps and start taking control, it’s not always easy to do✨🥂
Jen Kallin
Have learnt to be grateful for what I already have – a small step but I feel it could be life changing! #pandemiclife
Cherryl
I think that’s definitely life changing, attitude – powerful! 😊
Lauren Bateman
#pandemiclife meant that I couldn’t move to Canada in Autumn last year like I had planned! Had the visas and all the checks already done! But it did mean I could move in with my boyfriend and we are settling in nicely to our new place! Wouldn’t have it any other way.
Cherryl
Lovely, sometimes things just work out for the best but not the way you planned. Hope all goes well with any future move to Canada if and when. 😊
Amy Rennocks
#pandemiclife it’s definitely made me appreciate my extended family more and I’ll be spending more time with them once this is all over 🥰
Cherryl
Wonderful decision, we can always make time if we really want to 🙂
Becky Green
#pandemiclife new relationship, new flat many changes throughout the pandemic but all for the best I’m sure of it!
Cherryl
That’s great to hear – lots of silver linings 😊
kathcake2017
#pandemiclife nothing much has changed really..just working from home 100% rather then commuting. Saves me on the petrol 🙂
Cherryl
Given the choice, would you prefer to carry on WFH 100% or would you like some time back in your original work place? 🤔
kathcake2017
Prob a mixture of both ✅
Cherryl
👍
laura stewart
#pandemiclife gone from full time work to nothing on full furlough #pandemiclife
Cherryl
A life changing decision that was made for you, out of your hands. Hoping things pick up for you soon Laura 🙏✨
Katie J
#pandemiclife I moved flat with my boyfriend during the pandemic and its the first time we have had no flatmates so thats been lovely. I have also been calling family and friends more often, especially my nan as she is on her own and my grandad passed away during the first lockdown.
Cherryl
So sorry you lost your granddad, and bless you for reaching out more to your nan, that’s lovely, she’s lucky to have you 🥰
Enjoy your new ‘flatmate free’ home too💫
Janet Robertson
#pandemiclife. I had to very quickly move from working in a busy office to working from home. I always thought homeworking was not for me but now I can’t imagine working back in the office
Cherryl
I can relate to this Janet, and doubt many of us will ever return to that old way, not fully anyway. Happy WFH 🤗
Karen hutchinson
#pandemiclife moved house in lockdown so plenty of change there
Cherryl
Fantastic and congrats on your new home 🥂
I hope it wasn’t too stressful Karen 🏘
angelwarrior280761
#pandemiclife Wishing you all the best
Cherryl
Thank you, and likewise, very best wishes to you too ✨
tina saunders
#pandemiclife – no great changes here – just more walking locally and discovering new places on my doorstep, and my house and garden have never been so tidy!
Cherryl
It’s definitely nice having more time to dedicate to the home and garden 🌼
Andy Craig
I’ve not worn tracksuit bottoms this much since my teenage years… #pandemic life
Cherryl
😊 There are always decisions you could have made lol, glad you’re keeping comfy.
Nigel Soper
#pandemiclife Covid has made me much more aware of lung health and as I recover my exercise regime has changed to increase my heart rate much and ensuring I get more out of breath.
Nigel Soper
Covid has made me much more aware of lung health and as I recover my exercise regime has changed to increase my heart rate much and ensuring I get more out of breath.
Cherryl
Wishing you well with your recovery Nigel, glad to hear you ‘are’ recovering 💐 and that you have a an exercise regime🏋🏼 Even if it’s little and often…being at home more has also prompted me to make more of an effort to keep active.
Geri Gregg
#pandemiclife I don’t think the pandemic has lead to any life changing decisions, but it has obviously restricted what we do as a family. Great blog post!
Cherryl
Thanks Geri, you’re so right about the pandemic changing how we live our lives, it’s made a lot of the decisions ‘for’ us. 😊
terence mealing
Very nice and a beautiful place #pandemiclife
equinoxio21
Major change of course is to not travel for a whole year. 😖
We normally travel abroad twice or “thrice” a year. 🥺
It must have affected your own way of life too in that respect.
Major change? We might buy a house south of mexico city. Warmer. All year round. With a swimming pool, large enough (the house to accommodate the entire family at will so anyone can escape lockdown at any given time… We’ll see if we can strike a deal soon.
Stay well.
Cherryl
A new home and continuous sunshine sounds perfect, and I’m sure those family get togethers will be fabulous!! 🥳🍹fingers crossed you find somewhere that ticks all the boxes.🏡 🔆
Yes, overseas travel – big shift for me here, feels much less of a priority than previous years 🏝
Keep well too – and happy house hunting 🤗
equinoxio21
Thank you. Will let you know. As for travelling, are there restrictions for national travel? I’ve always wanted to spend a few months in the UK, and hop from one place to the other. One quaint village to the other… 😉
Cherryl
No major UK restrictions on national travel for now – apart from not being able to travel unnecessarily whilst in lockdown – which we think will be largely lifted at some point in May, we’ll see. UK based holiday bookings for 2021 (by Brits) are through the roof apparently⛱
equinoxio21
May? By then at current rate, you should have more than the population vaccinated. 👍🏻
And I can understand travel bookings…
Cherryl
It was May, but probably not anymore….the goal posts seem to shift like the wind these days 🙄
equinoxio21
“The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind…”
Cherryl
I hope you get to indulge in some quaint village hopping in the future – sounds lovely ✨💫
equinoxio21
I sincerely hope to be able to arrange long travels, several months in a given country soon. Fingers crossed.
Cherryl
I’ll look forward to the blog posts 🤗🤞
Nemorino
After 47 1/2 years, I had to stop teaching very suddenly in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Three months earlier, by coincidence, I had led a purely theoretical discussion about pandemics in one of my English Conversation classes: https://operasandcycling.com/conversation-and-more-b2/ .
Cherryl
Wow, that’s a very strong coincidence 😯💫 ‘a sign’ perhaps (if you believe in that sort of thing). A huge and brave change after 47 years, but when it’s time to turn the page I guess you just know 😊 I hope you’re well and enjoying new pastures, and taking a well earned rest too ✨thanks for sharing this.
kholopainen
Moved to Barbados, to be with someone. We were cross-border and the border closed. 6 months of separation with nothing but text and video calls helped our relationship develop in a way it probably never would have, pre-pandemic. And we both had time to think about who we were and what was important to us.
Cherryl
Awww,💛🥰 that’s lovely and ‘Barbados’ very nice indeed 🔆🌴 wishing you both all the very best #newbeginings 💕
ajkcos
it’s greet
laurensaylesxoblog
Aww wow that’s amazing!! Xxx
Zoey H
#pandemiclife I’ve been working home since 17.3.20 and recently found out that we wont have our old office to go back to but a small office so I may go in once a month when it’s safe to. Really impacted my mental health so using time to focus on me and get into bedt shape physically and mentally. We are also looking to buy a dog ( rescue ) so have company at home and will make me go out for daily works without fail.
Cherryl
I’m sure a dog will definitely bring a lot of extra life into the home for sure 🐶 and yes, great for helping to get you out and about too – brilliant!! Once per month in the office sounds great as long as you’re comfortable working from home. – some love it some hate it…
Either way lots of #selfcare always helps
✨🤗