By Diana McCollum
I’m Diana McCollum, a writer and the author of The Witch with the Trident Tattoo, a contemporary paranormal book about a contemporary sea witch and the coastal coven she belongs too. She is as much at home on land as in the sea. I’ve always been interested in myths, legends and science, and try to incorporate these subjects into my writing.
During this time of isolation I have found many things to be grateful for. I thought I would share some happy and joyful things I’ve discovered.
1) I go for a walk around the block every morning. Where we live the lots are quite large. Ours is an acre, most are between ½ acre and 5 acres. Most of the folks work in Central OR. Since the pandemic many have been forced to stay home or work from home or work part time. Because of these circumstances I have been able to meet many of my neighbors that I had not met before. Gone are the paid landscapers. Neighbors are out weeding, planting or mowing their yards. I wave and we chat from a distance. When I sit outside to read I can hear kids playing outside, which is a joy. Usually they are in school or at a sitter’s house. It feels like a neighborhood!
2) On my walk I pass out extra produce my husband has grown. The neighbors are delighted and it makes me feel good.
3) My sister Sarah, Judith and I have a standing weekly Zoom meeting. We talk about everything. I see their smiling faces and it makes my whole week better! We laugh a lot. I’ve gotten to know Judith better and consider her my sister of my heart. They have given me so much. Love, support and laughter.
4) I’ve been forced to find things to do. I’ve rekindled a love for sewing and working on crafts.
5) Weekly calls to my children who live far away has brought me much joy. To hear how they and the grandkids are doing and keeping up on the goings on in their lives makes me happy. Those shared moments are so precious.
6) And I am grateful for all my online friends. Without my writing loops and this blog I’d be sorely lacking in the beauty of friendship. For even though I haven’t met many of you in person I feel as if I know you.
What have you found to be grateful for during this pandemic?
