Stacey Zapalac-Wixted describes how the pandemic has affected her life
Baking. We have baked some breads, cakes, and cinnamon rolls. I do not plan to continue baking after the stay-at-home order ends. At home baking is way overrated.
Pandemic-Related Signs In My Community:
There are signs that have been placed in the center of Western Springs from the Western Springs Business Association reminding people to social distance, wash hands, etc. The police have a digital sign up about social distancing. All of the playgrounds have signs posted stating they are closed. Also, most of the restaurants that are still open have several carryout/delivery signs in their windows.
Places That Look And Feel Different:
There are several shuttered businesses, however, the places that look the most different now are the public parks, playgrounds, and tennis courts. Western Springs is a very active vibrant community and it is really sad to see the playgrounds and courts quiet.
What I Don’t Miss:
Shuttling from one after-school activity to the next. This pandemic experience has really opened my eyes to how much time I spend in my car carpooling children to activities. I also do not miss makeup and wearing uncomfortable clothes. This pandemic gave me the permission to think less about the superficial and more about substance.
What I Will Miss When Stay-At-Home Orders Are Lifted:
I will miss playing ping pong, Pickleball, and Four-Square games with my family in the backyard at noon on a school/work day. I will miss the approval to hit pause on all the sports, school, and social commitments.
Moments I Won’t Forget:
I won’t forget the tears in my daughter’s eyes when I told her she can’t go away to her summer camp in Michigan. I won’t forget the overwhelmingly stunned and scared feeling I had going into the grocery store for the first time since the quarantine began, seeing very little on the shelves and my fellow shoppers all with masks on. I won’t forget the calm and level headedness delivered by Dr. Fauchi, Dr. Birx, CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta, and Gov. Pritzker, as well as the spirited Mayor Lightfoot (and her memes).
Effects On Loved Ones:
My children are very resilient, however, I think this will take quite a long time to decompress from once the stay-at-home order is lifted. I do not think my kids will fully feel safe until a vaccine is found. My father, who lives in a skilled nursing facility, has been quarantined since late February. Sadly the isolation has led to a steep decline in his mental faculties. We have found his dementia has worsened as has his mobility. My brother, who also works in the healthcare field and suffers from anxiety, has had serious bouts of depression requiring urgent medical intervention. My brother-in-law worked in the new home construction business in Colorado and has unfortunately lost his job.
Impacts For The Future:
Chicago is strong, and we will come back, probably a little bruised, but bruises fade.