The School’s Publicity and Recruitment Officer, Caroline Keir reflects on the easing of lockdown.
We are on release from lockdown! I should be happy, but I have to say, I’m not sure I like this freedom very much. None of the places I want to visit are open, my summer holiday plans look bleak and dining options are lousy.
Lockdown certainly has had its ups and downs.
My work routine has taken various forms over the past couple of months, from working on a yoga cushion and coffee table, to being promoted to the desk and chair belonging to my 10 year old. I have adjusted to using new technology, and now get the chance to ‘meet’ some of my colleagues far more frequently than previously.
I am pleased that as time has progressed, I no longer experience the panic and anxiety first experienced when stepping into a supermarket during those early weeks of lockdown. I have not been on public transport for 14 weeks, so maybe it will resurface when I next step on to a bus.
I am not sure when I will be back at work and enjoy the simple pleasure of discussing things face to face with colleagues, or grabbing a coffee in the Magnet Café. The absence of these basic activities feels strange. There are some things, such as the long queues in the Magnet Café, which I don’t miss however.
So, as my neighbours head over to their home in France for the summer, there are some changes ahead. We are looking after their cat, Max, while they are away, and I have appointed him Head of Wellbeing. He has his work cut out however, living with four fret individuals who have been cooped up for far too long. But I hope he can help us stay sane as we adjust to being released into society.
