One obvious thing is that I’ve learned new technical skills. I didn’t know what Zoom was just months ago. I communicate with others so much more using technology than I did before.

I’m lonelier than I was before. Isolation forced by COVID-19 is now a familiar part of each day. Part of that is also that I cannot easily get out and move to meet up with others or to get a change of scenery. Coupled with our nation’s political situation which I’m so worried about only magnifies my loneliness. I can’t escape it so easily especially when I use the TV, radio, podcasts even reading as voices or distraction in the background or as a means to transport myself away from things that hurt.

I find I have to work harder to stay on top of things some days. Not sleeping through the night adds to the challenge. I sometimes fall asleep during the day while in the middle of doing things. I feel so much older than I did just a few years ago.

I’m looking forward to having my hip replaced so I can move more easily. I don’t expect perfection but being pain free and able to get places more easily is clearly something that will brighten my days. Maybe I’ll be well enough to get a small dog.