isolate.

Shelter in place. Self quarantine. Work from home. Isolation. Whatever you happen to call it, I have been struggling. The weight of the uncertainty around the global pandemic and what it means for me (yes, I’m being selfish here) has constantly been on my mind.

I struggle with feelings of isolation and alone. I don’t feel like I have any newfound free time. I am more tired at the end of each day than I ever remember being before this pandemic.

I am incredibly thankful that my wife and I still have our jobs. I am incredibly thankful that we are both healthy and so are our families. We have a roof over our heads. We have food in our pantry. We have clothes on our backs. My heart breaks for those who don’t.

Photography has been a creative outlet for me since middle school and I couldn’t help but photograph my new (temporary) normal.

Working at home is difficult at times. I’m trying my best. I miss the camaraderie of my coworkers.
My nephews came over for a visit and to color on our sidewalk. It was tough for everyone to not give hugs.
As much as she loves having us home 24/7, I think our dog even enjoys some time to herself in the backyard.
Mother’s Day was celebrated socially distant and outside with take-out from a local restaurant. We had to find shade wherever possible because my parents lost most of their trees in the October 2019 tornado which ravaged their neighborhood.
No happy hours or date nights and working from home means less driving. I think my car misses me.
Our friend graduated from nursing school. With no ceremony or parties, we celebrated in the front yard with take-out dinner, champagne, and balloons. Staying six feet apart, of course.
The weather in Dallas has been beautiful for almost eight continuous weeks. I can’t remember Dallas ever having an actual Spring. Usually, the third week of May means summer temperatures have arrived. We’re all thankful for this beautiful weather wh…
After eight weeks of sheltering-in-place, I’m hopeful that maybe - just maybe - there’s light at the end of this tunnel.
I think my wife will kill me for sharing this photo of our house in such a disheveled state, but the morning light was perfect.

At the end of the day, we are in this together. I have to remind myself of this almost daily; even though I’m isolated at home, I am not doing this alone. I remain hopeful that when things get back to “normal,” the feelings of togetherness and community will not be forgotten.

Stay healthy, stay safe, and stay connected.