Quarantine, day N… Was at work last week, and now off again.

Early in, I set up a Google Doc in which I listed goals for the quarantine. Projects I could accomplish with the extra time. Some of them are already complete – I got my Grace Hopper application in, built out some challenges for a CTF, planted seeds. Some are in progress – about half of the front yard has had its onion grass removed. I’ve done more running and pushups. Still working towards pullups. Have mostly left the burpee goal alone, though I think that’s on the list today.

What I’ve realized isn’t strongly on the list are household organizing or cleanup projects. I could wash windows. I could dust floorboards. I could… These are the sorts of projects my parents used to give me when I’d done something wrong, though. The sort of work penance aspects to grind a spirit down. I’m not in the mood to punish myself.

What I keep doing is more minor things: clean up a corner. Put away something that’s been in the wrong place for far too long. Work to keep the kitchen quasi-clear with all of the extra food preparation going on. (Somehow kids love making food, but never connect it with the extra cleanup.) Go for more long walks with my hubby. I’m most of the way through a puzzle, which is usually something we only do over Christmas break. Try a new recipe or two once in a while… We had a Monte Cristo casserole the other day that was pretty good!

The weeks without a rhythm are long. Completing big household projects and then seeing them be overrun would be too discouraging. So I’d describe myself as pacing. We’re in a time of unknown length and I’m just trying to make it through.