After five weeks of lockdown in Canberra, I have truly started to appreciate the struggles that my friends in Melbourne, the Central Coast and Sydney have been going though.

I’m thankful I had my children more than 20 years ago. I mean, homeschooling? A big ‘F’ to that! I’m not sure who would’ve survived, me or the kids?

Yeah – it would’ve been me!

But I have been reflecting on how lucky we actually are to live in the digital age – especially during times like this! There are a lot of other things I’ve been really thankful for during lockdown.

#1 – I’m truly thankful for the connectedness provided by the internet and applications such as Facebook, FaceTime and Zoom. I can keep up-to-date with everyone and everything – without leaving my cocoon.

I even signed up for a short beginners stand-up comedy course and debuted my ‘talents’ online! This is turn has led me to find a new hobby that I’m totally into. In between making candles and knitting up a macrame storm, I make time to write down short notes and insights on shit that I think is super funny!!! Laughter is the best medicine, right?

Check out some of the online live standup happening around the nation – there are shows all the time!

#2 – I’m sure I’m not the only one grateful for streaming services… whether you prefer Netflix, Stan, Disney, or Amazon – there is always something to watch!

Streaming comes even comes with added bonuses. No advertisements! I’m happy to pay a monthly fee to not have to listen to the jingle from that stupid NRMA/Koala bullshit excuse for an ad.

#3 – Internet shopping. From MenuLog, through to Myer, and HelloFresh – everything I want (other than a big fat Mango Magic from Boost ) is just a click and delivery away. I do have to send a big shout out to all the delivery guys – they’ve been absolutely flat out! And my driveway is a killer!

#4 – Click’n’collect! Ingenious money saving scheme – no browsing and buying shit I don’t need. But it does annoy me that not all retail is open – there are some things you just can’t but at Woolies or Bunnings…

I do think I’ll continue shopping online and clicking/collecting after lockdown. I much prefer doing my groceries online and just picking them up. I don’t have to deal with checkout queues, the pressure of self-serve, or seeing people shopping in bare feet!

#5 – Finally, I am super grateful for the scientists behind the development of vaccinations. I’ve rolled my sleeves up and have been double jabbed. I’m ready to get this nation opened up.

I’ll be honest, I’m a selfish bitch… getting vaccinated wasn’t about protecting others – it was about protecting myself.

Laters…