The world is changing. These are unprecedented times, and we're experiencing upheavals the likes of which we've never witnessed. One thing's for sure: cohousing is made for times like these. Cohousing is about people pulling together and supporting each other, and that has never been more important. Our Kawartha Commons Cohousing group is up to the challenge. We've built a tightly knit community, and we're here to help and support each other.

Our upcoming Discovery Circle is one such opportunity. We typically meet in person every month to discuss specific topics, but now that we're practicing social distancing, this Sunday we're getting together online to compare notes and make sure we're all doing okay.

And there's our KCC Chatline too. We use these informal chats to get to know each other better, and to overcome distance as we forge a stronger community. We'll definitely be holding more of these in the coming weeks. As we're quickly learning, much is being asked of us that was inconceivable even a few short days ago. Social distancing. Self-isolation. Vigilant handwashing. We know what's expected of us, but a timely reminder never hurts. But it's not all doom and gloom. Many of us may be stuck indoors, but there are still plenty of ways to stave off boredom.

Despite all that's going on, our KCC project is still in good shape. In fact, we're going through something of a lull right now, as we wait for the City of Peterborough to approve the rezoning of the site we've identified. That means shovels aren't in the ground yet, and we haven't spent a great deal of money, so even if this pesky virus causes undue delay, we'll weather the storm.

This old world may be topsy-turvey. But even though we're all hunkering down, we'd still like to hear from you. Why not contact us at info@kawarthacommons.ca? Let us know how you're doing. You can also keep in touch by visiting our website, and our Facebook page too.

We'll get through this. We just have to keep our wits about us, and pull together. Please take good care of yourselves, and the ones you love. And be sure to say a word of thanks to those of us - the doctors and nurses, the grocery store cashiers, the bus drivers - who are still out there keeping it together for us all.

Timely Tips For a Pandemic

We're coming to grips with the role each of us has to play in containing COVID-19. Maybe you already know this stuff, but it's worth reviewing.

For everything you need to know about dealing with a pandemic, Health Canada's website is the place to go. There's also a wealth of information at the World Health Organization's website.

Here are a few of the things we can do slow the spread:

• Clean your hands regularly with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand rub.

• Disinfect surfaces regularly,
  especially in the kitchen, bathroom, and work areas.

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow.

• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

• Take extra care to avoid crowded areas if you are over 60 years old or have a pre-existing condition.

• Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Follow the directions of your local health authority.

And don't forget to get regular exercise. There's no better way to take your mind off your cares. If you can avoid excessive contact with others, go for a walk in your neighbourhood, or park, or hiking trails.

It’s normal to feel anxious, but try not to get overwhelmed. Reach out to the rest of the KCC community, or your friends or family. Remember: we're here to support each other.

It Can Be All Fun and Games Sometimes

Everything around us seems to be shutting down. But with a little creativity, there's no shortage of things to do:

• Set up FaceTime calls with friends and family. Especially your grandchildren.

• Email the latest jokes and funny pictures to everybody. Even if they're about The Virus. Especially if they're about The Virus.

• Set up an online book club - read a book and then meet on Zoom to discuss. Wine is optional, but recommended.

• Pick a movie to watch on Netflix, then Zoom in with your friends afterwards to discuss it. Wine wouldn't go astray here either.

• Online Battleship. Something else to do with the grandkids.

• Call an old friend you haven't chatted with for a while.

• Write a letter on your best stationery to someone important to you. Tell them why you love them. Put it in an envelope and send it by snail mail.

• Bake lots of goodies to share with your neighbours. Leave them on the porch if you have to.

• Make sure to thoroughly sample your baked goodies first. Quality control!

• Work off your baked goodies with a nice long walk. Don't forget: elbow bumps when you run into a friend.

• Limber up your brain cells with Wordscapes for your iPhone or Android.

• Organize your closets. Purge old files from your computer. Clean out the garage.

• Play board games with your partner. Have you tried Dixit?

• Read to each other. Alice Munro! Stephen King! Chekov! Danielle Steel!

• Virtually visit somewehere interesting. The Art Gallery of Ontario, or the Canadian War Museum, or the Bata Shoe Museum. You can even tour a penitentiary.

No matter what you decide to do, make sure to keep in touch and stay engaged. Take care of yourself and each other.

And don't forget: a sense of humour always helps