Life in Everett Journals: Christina Strand
Editor’s Note: This is a first in a series of journal entries from members of our community as we adapt to stay at home orders during the COVID-19 outbreak. I’ve gone back and forth wondering if these entries will fit the “Good Things” focus of Live in Everett, but everything about relating, connecting and learning from our neighbors is a Good Thing. ~Linda
JOURNAL ENTRY: 1
Christina Strand
Administrative Assistant for Community Transit
Bayside Neighborhood (GO BAYSIDE!)
April 7, 2020
The last couple of days have started to feel normal, which is a feeling I wasn’t expecting to experience any time soon. I went on a run yesterday and people waved at me. Those not wearing masks smiled as I jogged by giving them extra space for my labored breathing. We cracked jokes at work.
My family has been spread out across the country for a few years now, but suddenly we call each other almost every day. I love to watch the world through the eyes of my young nephews. I was struggling recently, and my sister asked the boys to give me words of encouragement. The three-year-old fell to the ground and rolled around. The five-year-old expressed that he likes worms. Today the boys didn’t want to talk, they wanted to watch videos about COVID. I’m sure they have a million questions.
Now that things are starting to feel settled, as in I’m finding a new routine, I’m letting my mind wander with what the future will look like. My grandpa always looks at me when I tell him any story of something that has happened to me and asks, “what did you learn?” I want to keep that question as close to my heart when we start to get back into daily life. What did I learn from this? Did I learn how to ask for help, even when it feels like so many others have more pressing needs? Did I learn to appreciate my snuggly puppy instead of rushing off to my next commitment? Did I learn to enjoy spending time with myself? As much as I want to say yes to all of those questions, I think the real test will be to look back after the dust settles and evaluate the choices I make every day.
The number one thing I’ve learned so far is that I get lost if I don’t feel accomplished. A few days ago I started setting small goals for myself, be it to clean the kitchen, get a run in, or to send that card to a friend. Every time I get to check something off my list I feel like things are going to be okay, if not now then soon.
Live in Everett is your central hub for local delight. Restaurants, culture, events, and opportunities for civic engagement are just a few of our favorite things to share about. Learn more about us here, and join us as we proudly wave the Everett flag.
