Phase 2. Here’s to the reopening of fitness centres, spas, movie theatres and Alberta parks. Some of you probably already got pedicures this weekend, while some will continue to distance themselves unsure of how to respond to the relaunch.
This weekend, a couple friends and I ventured to Kananaskis for a hike and long overdue girl time. We picked an unpopular trail to avoid crowds, left early to practice social distancing and packed a lunch and snacks to avoid sharing food.
There’s something about hiking in the mountains, with no cell reception and only the sound of water and birds that just relaxes the soul and brings peace to the mind. For a few hours, we were able to escape our daily stressors and forget that despite the phase 2 relaunch, CoVID remains a real threat.
We are lucky in Alberta. Lucky to have low enough numbers compared to our neighbours down South to go for a hike in the mountains.
After our hike, we came home and watched a live stream concert by my favourite performer, Brandi Carlile. She and her family remain in quarantine in the States. All my friends who work in the US remain in quarantine. Those in Health Care only leaving their homes to go to work. One of them, a gastroenterologist, is now a bonafide ICU physician because they’re desperate for any doctors to help. He told us the entire ICU is packed with COVID patients and every day he’s terrified. Yes, we are very lucky. We cannot become complacent.
I must continue to stress the importance of good hygiene — frequent handwashing, carrying and using sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available and to avoid touching your face.
Support each other and respect each other’s comfort levels. For some, that involves shopping with a mask. For others, it’s the freedom of a hike with a couple safe family friends. Don’t judge comfort levels - they will vary immensely and change over time.
The last thing any of us want to see is an ongoing rise in numbers that forces us back indoors and on lockdown. Manage risk responsibly as you spread your wings just a little wider.
