MY ENTERTAINING COVID DAYS
I can't seem to keep up with all the suggestions my computer has on how to spend my time
Some time ago, before I bought my first computer, someone in my computer class advised me to buy one to keep busy on those days in the future when I will be home a lot. I wonder if she foresaw COVID -19 days?
Ever since the onset of “stay at home” orders, all I have to do to pass the time productively is to sit in front of my computer (I have a desktop one).
It seems every organization I belong to or keep in touch with is working hard to keep me informed and entertained. Looking at my email contacts. I can't believe the number of organizations appearing in my inbox.
The seniors clubs I belong to, of course, have made it their business to offer an amazing variety of courses that cover fields from exercise to art, French lessons to theatre, literature to cooking tips and even creative writing. There are courses on poetry, Shakespeare plays, music appreciation, photography and more.
One can join discussion groups and listen to speakers on a variety of topics ranging from clutter management to mental health — all virtually, of course. No time left to get bored — that is, if you are video-savvy, which many seniors seem to be these days.
There is no shortage of advice from my correspondents, aimed at maintaining my well-being. I am urged to contact loved ones by video or by phone, to keep in touch with friends, to practise self-compassion and be good to myself. Above all, I am encouraged to be grateful for all the blessings in my life.
My bridge teacher at the seniors club has not forgotten me either. He frequently posts games and bidding, then asks me to play the hand. Will I make the contract? Now, there is a sure way to keep my brain working.
There are plenty of onscreen entertainment offerings, as well. The Montreal Symphony Orchestra offers a selection of classical concerts. Also, opera and various theatrical productions can be enjoyed at the click of my mouse on the link. And all without leaving my easy chair!
Should I be in the mood for real travel, the CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) in Quebec encourages me to get to know the province this summer — with all precautions in place, of course.
My other CAA contact, the Canadian Authors Association, keeps me informed of news on the literary scene.
In case I am willing to spend some serious money, Dupuis, a Toronto auction house, offers virtual bidding on a selection of gorgeous jewels.
Should I wish to enjoy a delicious meal or a fabulous French pastry creation, if only virtually, all I need to do is open my email from Montreal's Ritz-Carlton Hotel. There, I can enjoy a threecourse gourmet meal, spend a weekend “staycation” or bite into one of my favourite pastries, a millefeuille creation of layers of puff pastry filled with cream. If only one would appear at my door!
Of course, friends get into the email action, too. One of them is sending a link to a travel group offering virtual trips all over the world.
Another friend forwards emails leading to travel videos showcasing ultramodern Japan and gorgeous Italian scenery.
When I switch to Facebook, friends and relatives keep me busy with their favourite pastimes.
One of them, a lover of baroque music, recommends recordings of works by Corelli (Italian, 17th century), as well as listening to Canada's own keyboard genius, Glenn Gould.
Another friend is into Renaissance art and museums, encouraging me to take virtual tours of Florence's Uffizi Gallery, Madrid's Prado Museum and New York's Frick Collections (all three, thankfully, return visits for me).
By now, though, I think, I have exhausted my computer-gazing energy. So thanks, folks, but I think I will just turn off the computer and sink into my easy chair.
Then I will indulge in my favourite pastime, gazing into space, and perhaps think about a topic for my next column.
Of course, friends get into the email action, too. One of them is sending a link to a travel group offering virtual trips all over the world.