Last month I talked about things you can do to stay busy during the pandemic and I thought I would follow that up with a few ideas for what we can all do to help ourselves, and others. We do the obvious things like social distancing and mask wearing not just for ourselves but for our friends, neighbors and family members. So what are other good practices and ideas? Here’s 10 things that come to mind.
Get the Covid vaccine. For those that qualify, get it as soon as you can. Although currently in short supply in most areas that will change over the next few weeks so get on the list so you’ll be scheduled when supplies become available.
Support local restaurants. We’ve often seen mention of supporting our favorite dining establishments by buying gift cards or getting meals to go. Even with To-Go orders it will be tough for restaurants to stay in business, so order out once or twice a week if you can, and spread it around. Maybe have a meal delivered for a shut-in on your street.
Stay safe while shopping. When the new virus variants were found in the state, we started ordering groceries and picking them up. So maybe cut out a visit or two in person and order from somewhere that offers curbside pickup or even delivery. Many retail stores, such as Target, also offer regular item pickup as well. Otherwise shop off-hours if you have to go in somewhere.
Support local artist. Many retail craft shops and art galleries have suffered during the pandemic, along with the artist and craftspeople they support. As the number of tourist has fallen and local folks stay home, it’s been increasingly hard for artist and craftspeople to stay afloat. But, almost all craft fairs have become virtual, including ones run by local institutions such as the Southern Highland Craft Guild. A quick online search will link you to sales portals for a variety of shops, artist studios, and organizations. You can spend whatever you can afford, from a simple ceramic mug for the morning coffee to a large painting to brighten up your home.
Call friends and family regularly to talk. Winter is a lonely time of year when people spend a lot of times indoors even without the pandemic, and days of clouds and rain don’t help. A familiar voice on the other end of the line can really boost the spirits. Text are only good for answering questions, but impart no warmth or emotion so pick up the phone. Meet up for a socially distanced hike or picnic on a warmer day.
Donate. Clean out your closets and donate a winter jacket or pair of gloves. Take items to Goodwill. Make a cash donation to the Salvation Army or Manna Food Bank or another organization you admire. Support public radio (you don’t have to wait for a fund drive). Every bit helps.
Stay engaged. Attend community meetings online using Zoom or WebX type connections. Most are free and fun. Our Astronomy Club of Asheville has monthly talks, geared to the general public, the first Thursday of the month. February’s was on the search for extraterrestrial life (everything from microbes to intelligent life). You can watch previous presentations on our website using your computer, if you missed one. Here’s a link to the page: Meetings | Astronomy Club of Asheville (astroasheville.org)
Read a magazine or good book. Join an online book club. Buy a book from a favorite local author, either directly or through a neighborhood bookstore. Many, including our studio, offer online ordering and/or curbside pickup. A good book is a great companion on these cold winter days. When you are finished, share it with a friend.
Order household items somewhere other than Amazon. Yes, it’s convenient, but it’s displacing local stores across the country. It started with bookstores, now it’s every mom and pop shop on Main Street. Chances are also better you won’t be wasting resources by getting three separate boxes with one item per box if you order from a local store or mid-sized company. So look for alternative suppliers when possible.
Stay positive and keep your social media positive. Share some good news from your life. Avoid controversial subjects and “doom scrolling.” I’m sure folks would rather hear about my new granddaughter than my political views, and I’d rather talk about her as well. Just ask!
So stay happy and stay safe!
Tim Barnwell
