As this post’s title says, we are alive and well here in our casa in Ecuador. This is not something we take for granted. We are diligent in doing our part to keep out health as good as it can be. The most important part, is how we safeguard our psychological health, how we keep up positive spirits. Once one descends into anxiety and depression, the physical health becomes even more compromised. So, how are we doing that?
We have created routines. Most of our pre-social isolation are kept in place, such as morning coffee on the patio, connections with our children and grandchildren using social media, playing competitive card and dice games, daily exercise, and working together to prepare meals are some of those routines.
A new family group was created using Messenger, with the express purpose of cheering each other and bridging distances. Our adult children need this as much as we do. As well, we have been practising using a new message translator for our WhatsApp application so that there are no misunderstandings when talking to Ecuadorian transportation companies.
Now, for me, the added bonus is that I get to do all of this basically clothing free. I have a pair of shorts and top ready if needed. Of course, if I leave the property to get a few groceries [I know, it’s not allowed for seniors – I am a rebel], the clothing is obligatory. Life has definitely shifted to a more hopeful attitude.