I had this upbeat and optimistic blog written. But then I remembered that the Iron Porch is a place for real conversations and truth. A place of transparency.
The truth is that I’m not really upbeat and optimistic this week. I’m overwhelmed and discouraged about being at home trying to beat technology to telework while figuring out this quasi-homeschooling thing and dealing with an 8-week-old puppy that acts like a drunk toddler.
The truth about COVID-19 shelter in place/quarantine/social distancing…the truth is that this sucks.
It sucks.
I want desperately to be the woman that says, “I’m not stuck at home, I’m safe at home.” While I believe that statement, I’m struggling to embrace it.
I want desperately to be the woman that says, “I’m enjoying some much-needed family time.” While I believe that statement, the constant family time is starting to create impatient moments of longing for some alone time.
I want desperately to be the woman that says, “I know that God has a plan and will see us through this.” While I believe that, I’m having to constantly remind myself that God does have a plan. This is not something that’s been easy for me to embrace.
In the midst of this sucky week, I’ve been praying a lot. And holding onto the verse Isaiah 26:20, “Go into your houses, my people, and shut the door behind you. Hide yourselves for a little while until God’s anger is over.”
Come to the porch and let us know how you’re doing with all the COVID-19 changes.
~Emily
Iron Porch 
The first week was hard. I stayed in my pj’s, watched the news non-stop, didn’t get anything done, the sink was full of dishes, then I saw a video on Facebook. A lady named Mary said the same thing, but her daughter had texted her, that she had made a list of things to do to get through this. 1. God first, quiet time and journaling what she heard in God’s word. 2. Write 10 things she was grateful for. 3. Tell someone 3 things they love about them. 4. 30 minutes of exercise. 5. Call a loved one. 6. Be productive, work on a project. 7. Pick up the house as usual. 8. Prepare a meal, not eat junk food. 9. Go outside, enjoy fresh air &sunshine. Look up and see what God made. 10. Play games and laugh often. Leave TV off as much as possible. We all could make our own lists, just to put us back on track. Maybe a designated alone time. It’s hard in the midst of things to remember that it won’t always be this way. I’m with you on dealing with technology. Not thrilled with Zoom. But it’s good to have. Love you! Dawn
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sweet Dawn, Thank you so much for the words of encouragement and the list of things to do during the day! I’m going to try this in the coming days. I have noticed that leaving the TV off has helped so much! Love you too! ~Emily
LikeLike
Oh, Emily! I can so relate!! In ‘my’ plan, I would have my ‘own time’, as you mentioned… reality sees me taking deeeeep breaths so I don’t chuck my work laptop out the window because I can’t connect, doing our taxes instead of relaxing, and making masks instead of tackling a craft on my personal list. I finally realized I had to let go of ‘my’ plans yesterday, and allowed my tasks to be ‘structured’ by what needs came up. This morning it dawned on me that, while I let my plans go, I didn’t do it graciously or with a giving heart… and I was upset with myself. The verse I received Friday (and need to keep in my heart!!) was Psalm 37:3-4, “Trust in the LORD and do good that you may dwell in the land and live secure. Find your delight in the LORD who will give you your heart’s desire.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cheri-Your revelation about giving up your plans with a giving heart is a great observation. I appreciate your sharing scripture with us! We’re going to get through this!!!! Hugs, Emily
LikeLike