STAYING HAPPY IN THE LOCK DOWN

Dear Readers,

First question everyone is asking right now is, "How are you holding up with this lock down?"

I think this is the most important question of the year because truth be told a lot of people are loosing it.

With the 2 weeks extension of the lock down situation, it seems things have gotten out of hand.

The panic mood has escalated more than necessary and it's not just about the Corona Virus issue but with how citizens are coping at the moment.

There is the hunger and starvation situation, there's also the threats and robbery tension. Please do all you can to stay safe and secure within your homes, I care about you and your safety.

Now place your right hand on your chest and say, "Al iz well."

Why? Because I am hopeful. It is only a matter of time and I am convinced that this would be a thing of the past soon.

How you manage this period will determine how you will get out of  it. Yes I know many are terribly shaken but don't let it get the best of you.

It is highly essential that you stay positive and hopeful this period because we are in a very delicate time globally.

Don't get carried away with all the scary things posted on social media, I won't lie to you, it's quite scary.

My advise is this; anything that gives you joy and makes you happy, stick with it. That's the best way to get through this period without loosing your mind.

In my case, I am locked down with my family and somehow we are finding ways to stay happy. If you are thinking that I am enjoying the lock down because I am home with family, Hmm, you are quite far from the truth.

It hasn't been easy managing the home front and meeting up with work especially since I have deadlines to meet up with. Working from home as a mother is not beans at all.

Bean cake balls (Akara)

During the lock down, I have resumed my teaching duties, since I also have to keep the kids engaged with their school work. One minute I'm teaching a Pre-primary school pupil and the next minute I'm explaining a formula to a secondary school student. Very tiring if you ask me!

I have also resurrected my catering skills which had been buried underground for too long. Have I mentioned that my mum is a professional Caterer? Well, now you know, and yes, some of her talent rubbed off on me.

Since my family has upped their appetite level, I decided to match it too by treating them to some delicacies that I haven't had time to prepare all these while.

Home made Pancakes

Then I also noticed that while trying out all of these, I derive so much joy and it kept me happy especially when Hubby was helping me out in the kitchen. Okay, let me be honest, I forced him to help and he did, grudgingly though. But who cares how he did, what matters is that he did.

Our puff-puff wasn't so round

So yes, cooking and baking has been my escape route and has kept me sane through the lock down.

Yummy Chinchin

See me previously thinking that sex was my escape route. You won't blame me, I had to come up with something else as Hubby is shying away from having another baby this year. Lolz

Anyway Hubby dearest was telling me yesterday that his stomach has gotten out of proportion and I laughed because it is evidence that I am doing well. Ooin!

I can't possibly be home this long and not have my record-breaking Healthy Hibiscus Drink (Zobo) handy. My meals are incomplete without them and they are available for delivery within Lagos for now.

My own very special product, Zobo of life.

Did I mention that I have also turned to a cartoon freak? My favourite of all times has always been the good old Tom and Jerry, but thanks to my kids, it's The Thundermans and Teen Titians for now.

Sometimes I just let them have their way with the Television, that's after they've done some of their school work, and I join them though I don't enjoy it as much as Tom and Jerry. But then what can I do?

So what have you been doing to stay happy and positive during the lock down?

I would really love to hear from you.

Remember, whatever you do this period will determine how you sail through so stay positive and please ensure to adhere to the precautionary measures advised. Home is the safest place at the moment, don't forget.

#thistooshallpass#
#weshallovercome#

© Onyinye Udeh