Why I Love Quarantine! (Part Two)

Before I dive into more of my quarantine reflections, I do want to pause and raise attention to a key issue. Where I live, like many other places in the US, are seeing hugely disproportional effects from COVID-19 in the Black community. We know of course that this is a direct consequence of systematic oppression, which this pandemic has brightly illuminated across the country. Well, that hit home for me about a week ago. I lost someone to COVID-19. She had such an energy about her that allowed her to connect with so many people, and it was a blessing to see how she had grown and overcame so much during the time we’ve know each other. She leaves behind a teenage son and other loved ones. If you’d like to show your support you can donate here.

So I know I used “love” in this series title, but understand love isn’t always sweet. Honestly most of this quarantine has been sobering, but for that reason I’m grateful. It provided the sit yo’ butt down moment that was desperately necessary in my life as I felt myself burning out again due to too many priorities and not enough time. It cleared my calendar and did a hard reset on my normal over-extended flow and routine. With everything being peeled away, it helped me face what I want more or less of in my life moving forward. In the first few weeks, I started to ask myself what’s really important to me and where I want to spend my time long-term. For example, besides showing out for Bae I wasn’t cooking like that. I realize it wasn’t because I was anti-domestic, I just had so little time to do it with enjoyment. Now, it’s been one of our favorite/consistent bonding activities. Plus, I’ve saved HELLA money not eating out 2-3 meals a day.

CoronatineMeal1.JPG

“Upgrade U” Ramen

- 2 packs of cooked ramen (plain)
- frozen stir-fry veggies (one bag)
- 1/2 lb of jumbo cooked shrimp
- 3 cups of chicken broth
- 1 1/2 tbsp of soy sauce
- 1 tsp of red pepper flakes
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp of minced garlic

Speaking of money, I’ve been spending way more time getting my finances in order. A task I willfully avoided, but mainly because I wasn’t willing to sacrifice convenience for frugality in my previous busy AF life. I’m finally adopting all those darn Dave Ramsey baby steps. Shoot, I started investing on Robinhood because I have the time and extra resources. (My portfolio can’t buy me a plane ticket yet, but small steps.) I can admit travel has been up for debate on where it sits in my priorities financially. On one hand, I’m so so so happy I’ve already seen some of my bucket list places already (especially Italy). On the other, not burning my income on last minute plane tickets has allowed me to think more strategically about how I can make this addiction more sustainable and responsible once we open up the world again.

Another layer of that is, I have too much stuff! I’ve been cycling through a couch potato capsule wardrobe that has given me full confidence this could be a lifestyle moving forward. I had already considered going through a minimalism journey this year and this was a push in the right direction. I’ve needed very few things for day to day living—even if my recent queue of Amazon orders say otherwise. I’d like really see if I can do this. I still have to go through the Kon-Mari rodeo, but I’m optimistic that “would this spark joy in quarantine” will help.

For brevity in individual posts, I’m going to add another blog (or two) in this series. Please stay at home if possible. Take time to process how you’re feeling and coping. Most importantly, check in with your loved ones during this time often and tell them how much you love them. Every moment during this time is precious.

Take Care,

- Britt