What a difference a couple of weeks can make. With the downscaling of restrictions, I have been able to return to work, and have been back at work for two weeks now.
It has been a different experience, with most people who can work, still working from home. I work in Wellington, which is the capital, and the trains, buses and streets have been so, so quiet. It will be a gradual return to the new normality, that’s for sure.
In the last few days, restrictions have lifted even further, and shops, cafes, restaurants and bars are able to open again, as long as physical distancing can still be maintained. Citizens are able to travel more widely, and to expand their bubble to include an increased, small number of people.
I have paid close attention to what I have missed during the lockdown, and what I have sought out as soon as I was able. It has been an exercise of reaffirming what I value and what is not really that important.
I watched with interest the clamour of many to get early appointments with their hairdresser and nail salons. With my new home grown hair and nail care routines, I find that I am quite content in my state of low maintenance. Having succumbed to my silvers a few years ago, I am in no need of a roots touch up. I learnt to cut my own hair during lockdown and my gel nails are history that I feel no need to repeat at this point. The stress associated with the dependence of others to ensure that I look presentable has passed me by.
So what was it that I did miss and craved most to have when I could again venture out of my bubble and into the world? I wasn’t too surprised to find out that the answer was flowers. I really, really missed flowers. A small bunch of daisies, an indoor flowering plant and pansies for the garden. How I love their sweet, little faces.
My other must haves were a catch up with my family, a newly published vegetarian cookbook and a drive away from the suburbs and along the coast.
I won’t lie, I did succumb to the odd session of internet shopping, but nothing too much. And I did make the conscious decision to support local businesses and bought locally made goods.
I haven’t felt any desire to hit the shops or cafes since the restrictions have lifted, which is a habit I am keen to maintain.
Simple pleasures really are the best pleasures is what I have learnt over the last few weeks. Family, the call of the sea, the pleasure of cooking and the beauty of nature. All of the things that money can’t buy.
Quietly Quaintrelle 