Day 21

Week #3 of the Colorado quarantine is in the books. I fully admit, I'm struggling. I'm starting to see reports from credible sources (eg. Washington Post) that are saying that the Coronavirus pandemic is not as bad as the government is making it out to be. On one hand, I cannot fathom world governments tanking the economy unnecessarily. There is absolutely nothing to gain from it. On the other hand, a part of me isn't surprised. Unnecessary or not, because I'm high risk, I have no choice but to trust the powers that be and follow the rules/instructions for safety.

The cat has decided I need to be punished for one reason or another. I haven't been sleeping well lately, so I changed the sheets on the bed, hoping fresh sheets would prompt a more restful night. Sir Bubba of Lou decided he did not like my bedding selection and methodically pulled the fitted sheet from the mattress corners while I was washing the comforter. He's never done this before. I know it was him and not some freak sheet-contraction because he left copious claw marks in the sheet. I have remade the bed (again) and took steps to ensure the little bugger can't repeat it.

Bubba is traditionally a kleptomaniac. He will steal anything he can fit in his furry little mouth and carry it away. Today, I happened to locate a package of fig cookies. Sitting on the couch, working on my latest piece of literary brilliance, Bubba decided he needed to try to steal my cookies. Naturally, I thwarted his plan and started singing to him. To the tune of "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" Oh, bring me some figgy cookies; Oh bring me some figgy cookies; Oh bring me some figgy cookies; and none for Bubba Lou! 

Today's Tips:

• Wash your paws with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. If you have a nail brush, use it! Personally, I think nail brushes feel wonderful! It is recommended you sing while you scrub in order to keep time, so I recommend singing "We Wish You A Merry Christmas". Feel free to substitute your own lyrics as I did when I was taking the package of cookies away from the cat. 

I don't have additional suggestions this evening. As I mentioned earlier, I haven't been sleeping well and my constant battles with the Bubba-nator have left me drained.  Whether you believe the hype or not, be safe and stay healthy my friend.
Until tomorrow...

April 15, 2020

Day 20

It's very difficult to fathom that I've been doing this for twenty days now. I can think of a number of things I would rather be doing than sitting in isolation, arguing with Bubba Lou about the proper pronunciation of "caramel". (For the record, he says car-mel)

Aside from the copious amounts of camping and fishing I want to be doing, I want to be pursuing my research. Those who know me, know what I'm talking about. For those who don't know me, I've been an afterlife researcher (a.k.a. ghost hunter) for decades. It's my life's work; my passion. I've written six books about ghosts and paranormal phenomena, with about six more in the works. This quarantine has impacted not only me, but my research organization as well. We're all chomping at the proverbial bit to go and explore purported haunted locations. I want to be traveling, meeting new people, and chasing things that go "bump" in the night.

It breaks my heart to have to tell prospective clients no. "Unless your child is literally climbing the walls, and projecting pea soup, I'm not essential and cannot help you until it's safe to socialize again. If your three-year-old starts bench-pressing the family car, and speaking foreign languages, then I become essential." (Yes, I actually said that to a prospective client.)

Today's Tips:

• Wash those hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. It's recommended you sing to keep track of time while you scrub, so I recommend "Beautiful Ghosts" by Taylor Swift (Cats, the Motion Picture) in honor of Bubba and my research. 
• Get organized. This morning, I went through all of the paranormal memes, images, quotes, and other graphics I've come across over the years. I categorized them and created a Pinterest page with several different boards. I've got eight boards so far and I'm not close to being done but it's been a lot of fun to revisit things that had tickled or inspired me. You can find my page here.
• Support artists. They don't have to be painters/sculptors. Dancers, singers, and writers are artists too. Those that make their living in the arts are often self-employed and don't qualify for unemployment. Consider purchasing their artwork, CD, DVD, books. Because I mentioned my own books earlier, I'll post the link to them via Amazon. 

Of course, stay healthy my friend!

April 14, 2020

Day 19

Day 19 of the mandatory quarantine here in Colorado. When people ask me how I'm doing, my standard response is now "still sane and virus-free". I'm not sure how long I can maintain the sanity part though. Humans are biologically social creatures. We're pack animals. This is one of the few times in the history of mankind that "safety in numbers" does not apply!

Looking at the way the world is reacting to current events, I'm reminded of something Arundhati Roy said: "Historically, pandemics have forced humans to break with the past and imagine their world anew. This one is no different. It is a portal, a gateway between one world and the next. We can choose to walk through it, dragging the carcasses of our prejudice and hatred, our avarice, our data banks and dead ideas, our dead rivers and smoky skies behind us. Or we can walk through lightly, with little luggage, ready to imagine another world. And ready to fight for it."

I'm curious to see what our "new world" is going to look like. How long are we going to wear masks? Are they becoming a permanent accessory? Are we going to start coordinating masks with purses, shoes, and hair adornments?

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. It's recommended you sing while you scrub to keep time. Today, I recommend "The Mask" by The Fugees. 
• Keeping social distancing in mind, go for a walk. The weather has been icky in most parts of the country, but the sun is still rising every day. Bundle up, bring an umbrella or rain coat, and get some fresh air for 20-30 minutes. You'll soon notice you're feeling better physically, emotionally, and sleeping better at night!
• Limit your alcohol intake. I will fully admit I've consumed a little more alcohol during the quarantine that I would have under normal circumstances and I'm not the only one. Most of us have been quarantined for roughly three weeks or longer. Take a personal inventory and ask yourself if you're consuming too much. You don't want to become dependent. 

Above all else, stay healthy my friend!

April 13, 2020

Day 18

Day 18 of the COVID-19 quarantine in Colorado. Happy Easter! I hope you were able to do something enjoyable today! Me, I was "kidnapped" by my best friend again and we spent the afternoon deep in the heart of the Colorado Mountains. There was still a little snow, but it looks like we're getting closer to camping conditions!!!

We found a tree today that had been pruned at some point. The scar resembled a heart and it was just what I needed to see. I fully admit I've been somewhat negative the last couple of days and seeing that (man-caused) heart in nature reminded me that I'm not the only one suffering, my favorite places will still be here, and I need to focus more on spreading love and less on the ass hats that are prolonging our suffering.

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. It's recommended you sing while you scrub in order to keep time, so I recommend the chorus to "What About Love" by Heart. 
• Do you have old photos laying around? Personally, I have a box of them! Consider scanning them and putting them in albums or scrap booking them. Keep them preserved and in good conditions for future generations to enjoy. 
• Go through your pantry and cupboards. If you have unexpired dry goods that you're not going to eat, consider taking it to your local food pantry. The need is great right now. 

Most importantly, stay healthy my friend!

April 12, 2020

Day 17

Day 17 of the quarantine in Colorado. The new estimate for "release" is April 26, which is 5 days better than May 1. I'm not going to lie; I'm tired. I'm tired of social distancing, and tired of isolation. I want a hug. Tomorrow is Easter. There are actually people out there who are of the mindset that it's acceptable to break the law in order to celebrate the holiday - citing their First Amendment rights.

First of all, no one is saying people cannot celebrate Easter. They're just saying you can't do it in groups of 10 or more. Most churches are streaming services now anyway. Don't risk it. The sooner everyone is in compliance, the sooner we can stabilize and this will be over. Look at it like a child throwing a tantrum during a time out - as soon as they stop crying, their time will start, then they can go play again. Those of us who have been cooperating are ready to be released from timeout, but cannot because of the heartless jerks who refuse to follow instructions.

So...here are today's tips. Want to guess what the first one is?

• WASH YOUR HANDS! Scrub those touchy-feeleys with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. To keep time, I recommend singing "I Hope You Die" by Bloodhound Gang. Sing it loud as you scrub away and kill any COVID 19 germs that might be on your hands. 
• Wipe down solid surfaces in your home. That nasty little virus can be hanging out on door knobs, hand rails, countertops and toilet handles. If you don't have wipes, vinegar and paper towels work great! Sing "I Hope You Die" to those germs as well. 
• With tomorrow being Easter, put something up on your window or door to wish your neighbors a happy day. If you're religious, take time to reflect why tomorrow is a holiday. If you're not, take time to appreciate that spring is here and the world is being reborn - despite the adversity we humans are facing right now. 

As always, stay healthy, my friend!

April 11, 2020

 

Day 16

Day 16 of lawful imprisonment, a.k.a. quarantine in Colorado. The natives are restless and the 4-legged furry one attempted a jail break. I was able to return him to his holding facility, but managed a short escape myself in the form of a trip to the grocery store. I was astonished to see so many people not wearing masks/gloves and how many parents were toting unmasked children with them. If I were a vengeful person I'd consider contacting Child Protective Services, but in all honesty CPS receives entirely too many petty calls as it is.

My mother had some smoked ham and asparagus delivered to me today so I got to eat like middle class, lol. Yes, I made sure to hold my pinky finger up with every bite. 

Today's Tips:

• Seriously. Wash Your Hands. I've been recommending songs to sing while you scrub for 2 weeks now. Today's song selection is "Savages" by Theory of a Deadman feat. Alice Cooper. 
• Wear. Your. Masks! If your local government calls for gloves, wear those too. If you're not concerned about getting sick, look at it as protecting high risk people like me from YOU!
• If you have children, make sure they know the importance of social distancing and keeping their faces covered. Things are a little scary for everyone right now. Knowledge is power & kids understand more than what most adults give them credit for. 

Of course, the most important thing is to stay healthy my friend!

Until tomorrow...

April 10, 2020

Day 15

Day 15 of the government-imposed (because most people are idiots) quarantine. My county, along with a few others, is now requiring everyone to wear masks AND gloves when leaving their houses! There are people out there who are blatantly ignoring the new rules. Some feel they're invincible, some feel the rules don't apply to them for one reason or another, and most just don't care. They. Don't. Care! They don't care that there is a virus ransacking our PLANET and killing people left and right. They don't care that, just because they're not exhibiting symptoms, they could still be spreading the virus that is killing people. These people are stupid. The rest of us wont be able to have some sort of normal life again until those who refuse to comply either submit or die. Harsh, but it's the truth.

I read a tweet from @HannahLebovits that said "Husband just told me, 'watching the federal government deal with COVID-19 is like watching the Ministry of Magic deal with Voldemort's return, ' and damn if that isn't the best take I've heard this month". I think in the beginning, this was accurate. Perhaps, if Harry Potter had been running the U.S., we would have been better prepared and the people who refuse to do their part would be locked up in Azkaban?

Am I grouchy? Of course. Am I angry? You bet!  "Now Clarissa, there's no sense in getting angry over something you have no control over...." True. Doesn't stop me from being royally ticked at those who feel they don't have to abide by laws, rules, and regulations the way the rest of us do and are. They are the proverbial "drunk drivers" and we rule-abiders are the innocent victims they hit and kill because the rules don't apply to them. I'm reminded of Jim Carey's character in Liar, Liar when his client asks for legal advice after knocking over an ATM at knife point, "STOP BREAKING THE LAW, ASSHOLE!"

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. Sing while you scrub to keep time. I recommend the chorus to "Blaze of Glory" By Bon Jovi. 
• Obey local, state, and Federal rules/regulations. The sooner everyone complies, the sooner this will be over and people can start hugging again. 
• Take a photograph of anything at all and find 3 positive things to say about it's contents. Maybe you like the shade of green in the grass or the smile on the child's face. Do this every day with different pictures to find positive things to think about. 

Of course, your #1 goal is to stay healthy!

Until tomorrow, my friend...

April 9, 2020

Day 14

Today marks the end of the second week of Colorado's mandatory quarantine. It's also the final day of the Lockdown Selfie Challenge (for me anyway). While the daily social media posts and selfies will stop, I'll be continuing to post on here every day throughout the duration of this unprecedented hellacious torture. I'm almost wondering if "Big Pharma" isn't behind this pandemic as a way to increase psychiatric medication utilization.

Today is also rather bitter-sweet for me. It's my Mother's Day. Nineteen years ago today, I became a mom. Because of the quarantine, I can't visit my son and give him a hug for his birthday. This breaks my heart. He was able to go for a bike ride with his girlfriend this morning and she bought him a small cake, but it's not the same as celebrations with family - complete with Mom's Death by Chocolate and lasagna!

I discovered this morning that the whole social distancing thing has really impacted me on a subconscious level. I dreamed this morning that I was watching an Easter parade (that consisted of kittens dressed as bunnies on a conveyor belt in the street) and everyone had a hula hoop around them to preserve their personal bubble. In case you were wondering, my hula hoop was purple and green!

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. I recommend singing "The Record Player Song" by Daisy the Great while you scrub. Try to ignore the fact that you really need a manicure; we all do!
• Go through your wardrobe. What do you no longer wear? What no longer fits? Gather up the stuff that's been taking up space in your closet / bureau and donate it to your local charity. Everyone, regardless of social status is struggling right now. Good Will and other charities that accept clothing donations will soon be inundated with people needing clothing and other household items that they are unable to purchase new. Most charities will even issue a receipt for your donation that you can use for tax purposes. You'll be creating space, helping people, AND getting a tax write-off. Win-win-win. 
• Start a gratitude journal. Every day, write down three things you're grateful for. It's not as easy as you might think - especially right now. Today, I'm grateful for warm weather, good books, and Bubba Lou!

Until tomorrow, stay healthy my friend!

April 8, 2020

Day 13

Today is the 13th day of the mandatory quarantine here in Colorado. Nearly two weeks of isolation and borderline insanity. My back and abs are a little aggravated from yesterday's kayak outing, but I regret nothing!

The moon is full tonight and the neighborhood kids were running around howling at 8 p.m. I'm sure they have no idea why they were howling. It started in Denver on March 27th. A couple decided to create a Facebook page Go Outside and Howl at 8pm to encourage people to do something different while still maintaining social distancing. Some people howl to show support for essential workers, some to release frustration, while others still look at it as sending an audible hug to people within earshot. There's something like 400k followers of the page now and people all across the U.S. are howling at 8 p.m. Good on them!

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. The "experts" recommend singing Happy Birthday while you scrub. I recommend singing "Bark at the Moon" by Ozzy Osbourne. 
• Give the 8 p.m. howling a try. I missed it tonight, but I'll stick my head out the window tomorrow night for sure!
• Plan a vacation. I know I mentioned how I want to go to Arizona and hike Yarnell Hill to honor the Granite Mountain Hot Shots, but I also want to go to Ireland. I've been learning Gaelic via Duolingo, but I'm also starting to plan the trip for 2021. Where I want to go, what I want to do, things I want to see and experience. Be detailed and prioritize - it's YOUR vacation! (I've also decided today that after Ireland will be Italy!)

Above all else, stay healthy my friend!

April 7, 2020

Day 12

Day 12 of the quarantine in Colorado. Some are saying we're still a week from reaching our peak with this virus. Others are saying we peaked two days ago. I, along with everyone else here, am hoping we've already peaked. I hope all of the "social distancing" has been worth it, and lives were saved.

With the warm temperatures today, I couldn't wait any longer to take the kayak to the lake. There were two paddle boarders on the water, but the lake was otherwise deserted. No one was fishing and the campgrounds are closed. It was very surreal. The reservoir is usually teaming with people. I fully admit I selfishly enjoyed having the whole place to myself. It was just me and Seo Bata. Yes, I named my kayak. Seo Bata (pronounced Show Botta) is Gaelic for "This is a boat"! Don't judge me! 😉

Today's Tips:

• Vigorously scrub your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. It's suggested you sing while you wash. Today's song recommendation is the chorus to "Redneck Yacht Club" by Craig Morgan. (Simply because I was on the water today. You're welcome!)
• Start a knowledge crusade. Set a daily goal to learn the difference between you're, your, and yore; there, their, and they're; were, we're, where, and wear. Anyone who reads written correspondence or social media posts by you will be eternally grateful! 
• I'm still impatiently waiting for Netflix to release Season 4 of Outlander. Reach out to Netflix CEO, Reed Hastings, Jr. and demand they release it!

Most importantly, stay healthy my friend!

Until tomorrow...

April 6, 2020

Day 11

Day 11 of Colorado's mandatory quarantine. I'm feeling kinda low today. Who knew losing a tooth would have such a profound impact?

Adding insult to injury, I've watched all 3 seasons of Outlander on Netflix. Twice. Season 5 is airing every Sunday on Starz right now, so where is Season 4? Netflix needs to get on the ball before this redhead starts having Jamie and Sassenach withdrawals!!!

I sat on my back step and read my favorite book, "Anthem" by Ayn Rand cover to cover. The fresh air and sunshine felt wonderful, and it was good to turn the pages with Equality 7-2521. Had it not been for my neighbors exceedingly loud Latin oom-pah music, it would have been a near-perfect afternoon.

Today's Tips:

• Nigh do làmhan (that's Gaelic for "wash your hands") with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. It is recommended you sing whilst washing to keep time, so I suggest "The Sky Boat Song" a.k.a. Outlander intro.
  
• Find the email address, snail-mail address, phone number, Skype handle, Snapchat link, Twitter handle, etc. for Netflix C.E.O. Reed Hastings, Jr. and demand they release season 4 of Outlander immediately! It will save the sanity of many people!
  
• Are you artistic? Creative? Spend one hour drawing, painting, writing, baking, CREATING! Exercise your brain! Write a poem, sketch a picture, bake and decorate a cake - let your creative juices flow! Share it with the world - you never know who will appreciate your talents! Anyone who sketches Sam Heughan and sends it to me, will get a free signed copy of one of my books. 😉

Most importantly, stay healthy my friend!

April 5, 2020

Day 10

Day 10 of the quarantine in Colorado and I have to ask...What's With the Poking??? Facebook has this feature that I never quite understood - the poke. I logged in to my fan page this morning to discover close to 45 people had "poked" me overnight. Is this the newest substitute for physical contact? Did Zuckerberg know this pandemic was coming when he designed and/or approved this aspect? Or did the video of me singing Slipknot songs into my hair brush go viral & now I'm a hot commodity?

My face still hurts from yesterday's surgical ordeal. You can tell by the picture below - my right cheek (your left side) is still pretty swollen. I'm taking the 800mg Ibuprofen the dentist prescribed. It still feels like a sinus infection on steroids though. I will fully admit, losing that tooth has seriously impacted my self-esteem. As soon as the pandemic is over, I will be looking into implant surgery to replace it. 

Today's Tips:

• Wash your cotton pickers with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. It is recommended you sing to yourself to keep time. Today, I recommend "Sweet Revenge" by Motorhead. Imagine you're singing to the virus itself...

Hello, victims!

I can almost taste it

It's the need to see you die

You thought you had it made

Well here's your final shock surprise

How do you like it

My unfaithful friend?

How do you like it?

How do you like my sweet revenge?

Sweet revenge

• Sit down and write a letter. Not an email and not typed. Hand-write a letter to someone. If your handwriting is less-than stellar, slow down and be deliberate. Then, drop it in the mail. Yes, I said the mail. That thing that usually consists of bills and advertisements. Long ago, people used to use it for communication. You'll soon find that you've just made someone's day by sending them a hand-written letter.
  
• Ladies, shave your walking sticks! Just because you're not socializing, doesn't mean you can slack off. Your razor misses you & you'll feel better after! Guys, the same goes for you. Remove the fur from your mug. 

Above all else, stay healthy, my friend!
Until tomorrow..

.

April 4, 2020

Day 9

Day 9 of Colorado's mandatory shelter-in-place order. Is anyone else starting to recognize things that resemble Stephen King's "The Stand"? M-O-O-N, that spells Quarantine!

I was finally able to see a dentist three towns over for my broken tooth. I ended up needing a surgical extraction so I get to look forward to implant surgery after the pandemic.  When I was leaving for the dentist, Bubba Lou decided he needed to attempt a jail break. Knowing now how bad it sucks to be cooped up inside, he and I spent a few minutes in the fresh air and sun before I popped him back in the house. Hopefully this will earn me brownie points.

I can see and hear from my window, the numerous children from my neighborhood playing in the street. There's about 8 of them, all under the age of ten. Part of me is ecstatic to see them outside playing, as opposed to inside in front of the TV or gaming console. There is no social distancing in their world and they aren't supervised in the slightest. (They're playing in the street - hello!) Bicycles, scooters, and a basketball are their entertainment, which I think is wonderful! The mom in me hopes they don't get sick though, and I have to fight the urge to yell out the window, "¡Oye chicos! ¡Seis pies!" (Translation: Hey kids! Six feet!) Yes, I speak a small amount of really bad Spanish.

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. I recommend singing the chorus to "Animals" by Nickelback. Scrub vigorously if not violently while you sing. Evict those nasty germs from your hands.
• If you have a pet, make sure you're paying attention to their needs. Having you home all the time could be disrupting their routines and causing them stress. (That little PSA was from Bubba.) 

I dont have a third tip today, as my face really hurts. Stay healthy my friend!

April 3, 2020

Day 8

Day 8 of the Lockdown Selfie Journal has been brought to you by the words "Binge" and "Purge". No, I haven't developed an eating disorder. ←Evidenced by the size of my booty. After over a week of staying home, I'm finding it more difficult to be productive. (Especially since it snowed today - ick!) It is much easier to stay glued to Netflix or other areas of entertainment, so I devised a little routine. For every hour of purging I do within my house, I get to binge a show on Netflix for an hour. Now, when you're as addicted to Outlander as I am, limiting yourself to one hour can be difficult.

I set a timer on my Echo Dot for one hour and listen to whatever music is inspiring me at the moment and work on the house. Then I watch an hour of Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or whatever I want to stream. I'm finding that I am becoming more and more satisfied with everything I'm getting rid of. Reducing clutter, increasing usable space, creating an overall better habitat for Bubba Lou and I to share. Speaking of Bubba, I'm still certain he's plotting my death. He's been leaving his toys on the stairs for me to trip on...

Today's Tips:

• Scrub-a-dub-dub those carpals and metacarpals with soap and hot water. The CDC recommends singing to yourself for 30 seconds to ensure you're killing any invisible assassins that may be lurking. I recommend singing "Run to the Hills" by Iron Maiden. Imagine the soap and water are Godzilla and your hands are Tokyo!
  
• Try a new recipe. I know a few days ago, I recommended eating healthy to avoid GI issues from Top Ramen and Cheeto overload. Surf the net for something new and exciting. Make sure you have the ingredients already to avoid an unnecessary trip to the market. Post below in the comments what you made - maybe I want to try it too!
  
• Pay attention to your body. If you're tired, take a nap. This is the perfect time to be kind to YOU! Unless you have little ones that require constant direct supervision, there is absolutely no shame in resting your body and mind for a short time. Don't sleep so much that you don't sleep at night though; everything in moderation!

Most importantly, stay healthy! 

Until tomorrow...

April 2, 2020

Day 7

Day 7 of the mandatory shelter-in-place order here in Colorado. An infinitesimal part of me thought I might wake up this morning to find that this whole pandemic thing was a giant April Fool's prank devised by the makers of hand sanitizer and that the guilty parties would be eternally flogged. No such luck. The lock down continues here, and more states in the U.S. are preparing to follow suit in the coming days. Bung fodder is still in short supply and now being sold for roughly $1.10 per roll. At this point, it's more affordable to install and utilize a bidet!

My inner-rebel was screaming at the top of her lungs for fresh air today, so the bike and I took advantage of the sunshine. I know, I'm a baaaaaad putty tat! There were no other people on the trail though and I'm confident I wasn't exposed to that massacring paramecium on my excursion.

I saw a post on social media that tickled me:

"Gas cheapest it's been in 30 years, can't drive. Flights dirt cheap, can't fly. We're stuck in a CENSORED Alanis Morisette song!" -Author Unknown

How true is that?!!! Nothing like dangling a carrot in front of our noses while our feet are hobbled. You can bet that as soon as this mess is over, the prices will go up - quickly. The silver lining is this - the essential workers who are still driving their cars have access to affordable fuel right now!!!

Today's Tips:

• Wash your gripping appendages with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. To keep time, it is recommended you sing to yourself. Today's song recommendation is "Ironic" by Alanis Morisette. The chorus isn't quite 30 seconds - closer to 25 actually, so sing slooowly.
  
• If you've ever played an instrument, get it out, blow off the dust, and take a crack at it again. It's been proven that playing a musical instrument improves brain function! Being sequestered can reduce brain function. Play your way through this crisis! Playing woodwind and brass instruments can even help with lung function! If you like your neighbors, send them an apologetic email or text in advance until you get your groove back. If you don't care for them, play loud and proud - just not between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. For those who don't play an instrument, consider learning one. There are tutorials everywhere online and you can get beginner instruments relatively affordable online as well. The same neighbor suggestions really apply to beginners! In case you were wondering, yes I play the flute.
  
• Treat yourself! Extravagant dinners, spa days, and trips to the theater are out, but bubble baths are not! Light some candles, put on your favorite music, and soak! Have a glass of wine or read a book while you relax! This isn't a gender or age-specific suggestion either - grown up dudes can totally take bubble baths too! If you're not riding this pandemic out solo and happen to be romantically involved with your isolation buddy, make it a date night! 😉

Above all else, stay healthy my friend!

Until tomorrow...

April 1, 2020

Day 6

Day 6 of the COVID 19 mandatory self-quarantine A.K.A. "supreme torture" in Colorado. Being Asthmatic, I'm considered "high risk" so I really have to stay home. Alas, I'm starting to feel like Shiloh in Repo! The Genetic Opera             🎵🎵"Oh, I want to go outside..." 🎵🎵
(Anyone who hasn't experienced Repo! is soooo missing out on life!)

My mouth still hurts from the tooth I broke two days ago. I was able to find a dentist 3 towns over who would see me, but not until Wednesday. My brother knows a dentist through his church and texted me his cell number, and I was hoping to get it fixed before then, but no such luck. In the meantime, I'm becoming very good friends with the bottle of Hennessey I bought in lieu of Oragel the other day. (Hennessey was cheaper!)

Today's Tips:

• Wash those grubby mitts with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. If you've read my previous posts, you know that I pick a song chorus to replace the CDC's recommendation of singing "Happy Birthday". If you haven't read the previous posts, you have some serious catching up to do! (Gives you the "Disappointed Mom Look" - complete with finger shake!) Today's recommendation is "Look What You Made Me Do" by Taylor Swift. For me, the whole revenge and hate-soaked song applies to the nasty little virus! Sing it loud and proud while you scrub the murdering bastards off of your hands! Look what you made me do! Look what you made me do! Look what you just made me do.....
• Pay three people a compliment. Call someone and tell them one nice thing. Be genuine. This isn't Beetlejuice in the model cemetery; no sarcasm!
• Love yourself. Natural hair color and grays are going to be prevalent in the coming weeks as are uni-brows and Sasquatch lips. The salons are closed. It can't be helped. Manis and Pedis can be done at home, but color and wax are a little trickier. (Don't ask me how I know this) Look in the mirror and get to know the REAL you again! When this is all said and done, you can treat yourself to a magnificent makeover, should you decide you want to go back to the way you looked before the quarantine.

Above all else, stay healthy, my friends!

Until tomorrow, 

March 31, 2020

Day 5

Today is Day 5 of the mandatory shelter-in-place order here in Colorado. I want to take this opportunity to say COVID 19 SUCKS! One of my favorite country music artists passed away yesterday as a result of this virus. R.I.P. Joe Diffie. Billy Bob is forever loving Charlene in John Deere green!! 💔

On a lighter note, I read an article in Paper City Magazine that talked about how Generation X has been preparing for this pandemic our entire lives. The more I read, the more I gasped in amazement - it's TRUE! As a proud member of Gen X, I can honestly say that the years spent in my room recording top 40 songs from the radio to a cassette tape, not texting or emailing, no selfies, and reading Mad Magazine and Teen Beat were the ideal preparation for this forced introversion. I'll include the link to the article at the bottom of this post so you can see for yourself. My fellow Gen X-ers out there will undoubtedly agree.

I know I mentioned my cat, Bubba Lou, the other day and how I can now understand why he tries to pull a Houdini whenever I open the door. I'm not sure if it's evolution or a side effect of self-quarantine, but he and I have been arguing a lot lately, and I'm pretty sure I'm losing. He's always been mouthy, but he's starting to make me feel guilty for scolding him when he tries to drink from the aquarium. Also, I'm convinced he's plotting my death. If I suddenly stop posting on here, please call 911 for me and the local Chinese restaurant for him! (Seriously; if he's killed me, it's my final request!)

Today's Self-Care Tips:

• Scrub those paws for at least 30 seconds with soap and hot water. It's recommended that you sing while you're scrubbing, so today's music recommendation is the chorus to "Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox" by Mr. Joe Diffie himself! 🎵🎵
• Adopt a mantra. So many people are experiencing depression and anxiety as a result of this fiasco. A mantra can help eliminate some of the negative self-talk. Can't think of one? Look in the mirror and try this one from SNL's Stuart Smalley (Gen X-ers know where I'm going with this): "I'm good enough; I'm smart enough; and doggone it, people like me!"
• Make a list of things you want to do when this is over. Personally, I want to go to Arizona and hike Yarnell Hill to honor the Granite Mountain Hotshots. Being an out-of-shape Asthmatic, that's going to require some training. I'm going to start preparing here at home - trusty rescue inhaler at my side - so that this time next year I'll be able to make the hike without needing oxygen. 

With all of this talk about Generation X, I had to really work hard to resist the urge to tease my hair like I did in the 90's!

Stay healthy friends!

March 30, 2020

https://www.papercitymag.com/culture/generation-x-earns-respect-conronavirus-pandemic-stay-home/?city=dallas&fbclid=IwAR0PscYUawcrTCxM0Ex1IttRQwyJg32QvPQOuh0E3fau550OCeNN3blB4h8

Day 4

Today is the fourth day of the COVID 19 mandatory shelter in place A.K.A. lock down in Colorado. I was doing pretty good, until I broke a tooth eating a piece of bacon. Seriously - BACON! Given that dentists are limiting non-essential procedures to conserve protective gear and to keep that nasty little Coronavirus from spreading, I may have to wait to have it pulled. Luckily, it's not in the front, so I'm not rockin' the hillbilly look. *Sigh of Relief* I'll be putting the broken piece under my pillow tonight and I had better get my quarter! Needless to say, I had to leave the house to get some pain reliever, which was rather refreshing. I discovered that cognac is WAY cheaper than topical oral pain reliever, so you can guess what I'll be doing tonight. 🍸


Today's Tips:

• Sing for at least 30 seconds while washing your hands with soap and hot water. Today's song choice, in honor of my broken tooth, is "Can't Smile Without You" by Barry Manilow.
• Don't touch your face. I know the nose-pickers out there are freaking out, but please exercise restraint. 
•  Explore education options. Several universities are offering free online classes. I am learning to speak Gaelic on the free Duolingo app. Come out of this smarter than going in!

Stay healthy, my friend! 

March 29, 2020

Day 3

Today is the third day of the mandatory shelter in place for Colorado. I've noticed that I already don't care if my gray Denver Bronco's T-shirt goes with my purple cosmos-print yoga pants. Ordinarily I would have no problem staying indoors for days at a time. Now that I can't, I want to more than ever. Thinking about it, maybe the government should have tried reverse psychology to get people to stay home. (President Trump, Governor Polis, are you getting this?)

***NEWS BRIEF***
Colorado has just declared that everyone MUST go outside for one hour every day in order to keep people from getting sick! High-five everyone! Flood the stores! Hoard the toilet paper! Every Man, woman, and child for themselves!
↑↑↑That's me being silly, not an actual news release↑↑↑

The sun came out for a while this afternoon, so I was able to sit on the back step and soak up some badly-needed Vitamin D. I can totally understand why the cat tries to run out of the house when I open the door. Either that, or he's REALLY tired of me being here. It's hard to tell - we aren't communicating well lately.

Today's Tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water. Sing while you scrub. Yesterday, I recommended a song by Megadeath. Today's selection is "Pray for You" by Jaron and the Long Road to Love. Imagine you're singing to the little germy bastards under your nails...or your ex-spouse. It's universally appropriate. 
• Eat healthy. The last thing you need is a stomach issue from Top Ramen and Cheetos overload. 
• Read a book. Yes, READ! You know, that thing you were forced to do when you were a kid. Think of something you're passionate about - I can guarantee there is a book about it! Don't believe me, check out "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" by Robert Pirsig! Trust me, your interest is out there in print!

Most importantly, stay healthy my friend!

Until tomorrow...

March 28, 2020

Day 2

I'm surprised by how quickly this has inspired people! I've had so many comments and people reaching out - mostly wishing they had thought of it. I don't mind sharing though, so if you want to do the challenge, do it! People tend to like a good challenge and the "dare" to get out of your bathrobe (or not) and take a photo for all the world to see is enabling people to exercise some self care, which is a good thing right now!

There is a lot of gossip and fear-mongering going on. I admit, I'm concerned. Not so much about getting sick myself, but more the level of stupidity. People are already panicked (toilet paper hoarding - hello) and now that the government is restricting activities, the level of impending stupid is exponential. Panic + fear mongering + ignorance = stupidity of epic proportions.

Here are a few tips:

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water. Some recommend singing "Happy Birthday", I recommend a chorus of "Sweating Bullets" by Megadeath. Kinda gives you the mental image of violently killing any germs on your hands. 
• Try to get fresh air every day - even if it's just opening the windows for a few minutes. It's been snowing here, so my only fresh air was my walk to the mail box. ❆
• Change your bed sheets. I don't know about you, but fresh sheets feel amazing and allow for a great night's sleep!
• Do as you're told. If local, state, or national government tells you to stay home - stay the hell home! Despite the conspiracy theorists, there really IS a reason for all of this. Yes it sucks donkey balls, but it is what it is. 

March 27, 2020

Introduction and Day 1 of Lockdown

My name is Clarissa. I'm 42 and live in Colorado. When we were given the order for mandatory shelter in place due to the COVID 19 virus, my friend, Mary Lou inadvertently inspired me to start this journey. Because so many people are trying to combat depression and anxiety through this unprecedented situation, I wanted to find a way to show support and encourage self care at the same time. It's sort of using the "sin" of vanity for good. With so many social media challenges out there, I figured one more couldn't hurt. I had no idea how popular my own selfie journal would be, so after a suggestion from my friend Tom, I decided to do it right and blog it.

This project started on March 26, 2020. I'll add my own daily selfie to this blog, along with a few words about how I'm doing, what I'm doing, and the impact this mess is having on me and my community.

If you're reading this and want to adopt the challenge, here's the basic text I used:

Day #1 of the Coronavirus Lockdown Challenge. Let's encourage self-care and encourage each other by posting a selfie every day for the next 14 days. Show everyone how we're not letting this beat us! Be honest - no filters! I was nominated by _________________. Today, I nominate ______________________.

(You can say you were nominated by me if you like!) The important part is to take care of yourself and encourage others to do the same. Even if you're not leaving the house, do your hair; put on makeup; guys - shave; change your clothes. You might be surprised by how good you feel after just those few things. 

So, without further ado, here is my Day 1 photo. 

.March 26, 2020