Tag Archives: self isolation

Self Isolation and Souvenirs

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After self isolating for the past month or so, I’ve definitely been dreaming of traveling further than the kitchen. (Sigh.)

Never did I imagine that my world would get so small! It makes me want to plan a trip.

One of my earliest vacations was to the Black Hills with my parents, three siblings, and grandparents. We all piled into one car—my youngest sister and I happily squeezed into the very back with the luggage—and we were on our way to a grand adventure!

Of course we loved visiting all of the sites, but buying souvenirs was great fun too. A giant pencil from Mt. Rushmore, a note pad from Wall Drug, any cheap little trinket would do!

At the time I was too young to consider the souvenir plates that were readily available at every stop, however, I’ve since discovered them on Etsy. Even though they’re inexpensively made, they’re a colorful and unique reminder of the places that we’re longing to visit when life returns to normal.

Vintage souvenir plates are typically about 4″ across and can be attractively displayed in a wooden box like the one above, or used as a kitschy set of coasters that your company is sure to appreciate!

I hope that all of us can escape somewhere soon; especially to see our family and friends. Until then, stay safe!

— Debra

Crabapple.

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The title actually refers to me, not the lovely crabapple trees in my backyard.

It’s hard to remain upbeat during these uncertain times, and I have been experiencing some uncharacteristic emotions. However, it’s a good opportunity to reflect and to realize that we take so much for granted.

Last year, when I took this picture, I probably sighed over the beautiful blooms and barely looked at the trees again until the blooms were gone.

I don’t want to do that anymore.

I need to think of new ways to immerse myself in nature. Perhaps a bench close to the house that I can easily access  . . . an irresistible pull on a cool, crisp morning or bright, sunny afternoon.

I don’t want to miss out on the beauty that surrounds me simply because I haven’t taken the time to see and absorb it. We shouldn’t have to trick ourselves into doing something that is so good for us, should we?

I’m going to work on that.

What things will you do differently when life returns to normal?

— Debra

There goes Peter Cottontail

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Well, with the recent announcement that we need to practice social distancing through the month of April, it looks like Easter will be hippity hoppitying right past us this year.

So . . . I thought I’d cheer myself up by setting the table for an Easter tea; imagining myself enjoying homemade quiche and scones with friends. Doesn’t that sound good right now?


I used vintage china that I collected from Etsy and a table runner that I picked up at Target.While I’ll miss the yearly visit from the Easter Bunny, the fun pops of color on the table are definitely brightening my day today. (P.S. The milk chocolate bunny in the Easter basket may or may not be missing his ears since these photos were taken.)

What’s on your agenda? I hope your day is a good one!

— Debra

TP and TLC

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I’ve been dealing with self isolation due to the coronavirus pretty well up until now, but today I’m restless and out of sorts. I’m not being productive. I’m bored with TV, I can’t concentrate enough to read, and if I look at the same posts on Instagram one more time I might lose the few brain cells I have left.

I’m angry about the people who aren’t following the rules; hoarding, not wearing masks, not thinking about others. Good stories definitely outweigh the bad though; people risking their lives to help others, keeping restaurants and stores open, sharing supplies, donating and making masks, organizing fundraisers and food drives.

I miss people. And I’m wondering, like everyone else, when I”ll be able to see my family and friends again. I’m hoping that everyone stays safe, and that everyone takes good care of themselves and others.

I’m trying to. However, my sole purpose the last few days has been obsessively tracking a shipment of toilet paper that I ordered for my parents and me. I cheered when the order went through! (It hasn’t moved from processing yet, so I will believe it when it actually arrives on their doorstep.)

Today might not feel so great. But tomorrow will be better. And I will get up, start my day refreshed and renewed, and only track my tp order once . . . or maybe twice . . . in the morning and at night . . . and possibly during my lunch break.

Take care, all.

— Debra