Day 7 - 142 -- Living Online?

Today was filled with online activities. Much like other days, I've begun to feel that most of my days are spent with the laptop. I do get to speak to people, but today I felt like I was cooped up i the house with a new appendage that looks remarkably like a laptop computer. <smile> The first activity involved a weekly virtual writing workshop. We generally write a message to the other members to let them know our plans for the next two hours dedicated to writing. I find this can help keep me accountable and able to focus rather than find other things to do around the house. Well, over an hour into the writing time, I checked e-mail to find that a message had been sent by the leader of the writing group asking me to mute my mic. How totally mortifying. I felt it had been very quiet while I was working away, but what the heck might I have muttered to myself? I then went up to campus to print some materials to help me practice for the presentation next week. Temperatures soared today with highs in the upper 20s (we broke 80F). It was a pleasant walk with sun, blue sky and a slight breeze. I even saw to people that I chatted with in person. On the way home, when I paused for that conversation, I found myself being swarmed by black flies. The time for the little beasties has arrived. <sigh> You never feel them bite, but do realize it has occurred when you find blood running down your neck or cheek. The welts are huge and very itchy. So, I didn't stand still for too long.

During the late afternoon and evening I spoke with three friends in three separate video calls. It is pleasant to check in with people and see them not just hear them on the phone or read their post on social media <smile>. I so enjoy these times together, particularly when the isolation means we can't visit with those close to home or with those living further away.

I came across a song that fit much of my thinking about being home in the same place doing online meetings and social calls each day. It has a rather plaintive sound to it, but the lyrics bring a smile. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Zoom: An ode to video conferencing -- The Ringer