strange times indeed.

Nuala, my constant companion these days.

I am sure that smarter people than me saw this coming, but I was just wishing for Spring.

As we adjust to this ‘new normal’ with no end in sight, I find I am reading blogs again, which had fallen by the wayside for me in favour of Instagram feeds. I am returning to the writers I used to feel so connected to. People I am thankful are still there, sharing their thoughts.

Also, PODCASTS.. thank goodness for podcasts!

So I will give this blog a try, and maybe we can get to know each other a little better too.

I am getting through the days by looking for positivity, authenticity and humour where I can find it online. Being cautious, trying not to panic. Discovering new shows. Staying home day, after day, after day. Reading, and knitting, and walking. Cuddles with the kids and the pupper. Working from home is nothing new for me, but this feels different. Thankful to be working though, so thankful. Craving sunshine, missing the carefree way we could just walk out the door. Trying to be mindful that outside of my quiet bubble right now people are sick, and that this is real. Baking cookies and yes, banana bread. Attending online meetings and seminars in order to keep moving forward. Doing my best, whatever that is in the moment.

Here is what I think. The way we travel, who we live with, how we work - this could all change permanently. How things will be different remains to be seen… I hope the pace of our lives will slow, and that we will spend more time at home. I hope we find creative hobbies and learn to live with a little less. I hope workplaces become more flexible. I definitely think we will be prioritizing different things in our homes. Upsize, downsize, refresh, add a home office, add a home gym. Finish the basement so you have more guest rooms or a suite. Make a space for privacy and quiet time. There are practical reasons for change, things we had not foreseen. Projects that have been put off will become a priority as we all prepare for next time.

It would not surprise me that some of you are making wish lists. Drawing plans on paper. Measuring things out. Dreaming. This is the perfect time for planning. Looking towards the end of this time and creating a plan feels positive and healthy. There’s plenty we can do right now.

I believe in the importance of interior design now more than ever. Our homes are our greatest investment and resource. It is also our port in a storm, and a place we are all spending a lot more time in right now.

I have so many thoughts for what this blog space could be… It will not always be so reflective but this is a reality of life right now. COVID is on all our minds, and when content providers do not acknowledge it in some way it feels tone-deaf to me. We have time to be thinking of all the big things, being grateful and thankful but also REAL. Enjoying parts of being home does not cancel out our concern for larger issues. We can do both.

So let’s start with something fun… tell me your favourite podcast! What am I missing out on?

Here are a few that are making me laugh, think, and cry.

The Papaya Podcast: Body positivity, Feminism, interviews.

#MOMTRUTHS with Cat and Nat: Funny moms

Canadaland: Journalism

The Guilty Feminist: British comedian hosting a variety type show

You’re Wrong About: Busting misconceptions about infamous people… OJ, Tonya, Yoko, etc.

Unlocking us: Brené Brown, enough said.

Nice Try, Utopian: Hidden stories behind failed architectural projects

Call Your Girlfriend: two friends discussing current topics from a feminist perspective

I am linking these to Apple Podcast, but I am quite sure they are available on whatever platform you love! Can’t wait to hear what you recommend!!