Keeping Busy

When it comes to quarantine, it seems there are two schools of people. For healthcare professionals like my mom, life goes on the same. She goes to work bright and early and spends the day caring for babies in the NICU. I, on the other hand, have been sitting at home doing absolutely nothing. Well, nothing of substance at least. I grew accustomed to crazy busy days at school. I’d bounce from my research, to class, to committee meetings, then finish the night curled up with my lab report. At home, I bounce from my bed to the couch, and maybe to the fridge every once in awhile. Sometimes, I absolutely need to get out of the house, so Cocoa and I go on drives (and sometimes for ice cream, don’t tell mom!). He has loved having me home all day with him.

I recently tried my hand at embroidery, and it’s tons of fun! I purchased this kit on Amazon, and learned some basic stitches and how to make flowers. I used this knowledge to freshen up an old t-shirt. Some flowers and vines on the collar was all it needed! I quickly realized I was running out of small embroidery projects, so I bought a cheap crewneck on Amazon. Rather than spending a lot of money on a vintage Pitt sweatshirt, I decided to make one. I freehanded a design, then began to trace and fill in the design. It’s not quite done, as I ran out of thread. I’ll update you with the finished product!

While I embroider, I like to keep my mind occupied with some Netflix. I’ll admit, I was late to the Grey’s Anatomy ball game, but it is such a good show. I’m on season 9 and quickly approaching season 10. It’s fun to get engrossed in their lives and see a little bit of what it’s like to work in a hospital (although, I know basically everything in the show is incredibly inaccurate). The characters’ stories pull you in. When I want something a bit more mindless, I’m a huge fan of The Office. The lighthearted nature and inappropriate humor put a smile on my face. Knowing Office quotes like the back of my hand is also a hidden talent. It’s probably the thing I do best. 😉

When I want to spend my time doing something a bit more meaningful, I’ve been finding opportunities to do volunteer work. Through my research lab, I’m going to work on a clinical trial. I’ll get to do some data collection and literature review from the comfort of my home. I know it won’t require a ton of time, so I also applied to volunteer at UPMC. While I would have to leave the house, it would be a great way to feel productive and to learn about hospitals as a work environment. I’m really passionate about helping our health care providers in any way that I can. Before either of those great opportunities pick up, I’m working to organize family and friends to write letters to residents of nursing homes. I feel so badly that they aren’t allowed to see visitors, so I figured I could use my love for writing and generous friends to help out. I’ve contacted four nursing homes in my area, and can’t wait to start writing. I think that this is a great way anyone can make a small difference in their area.

I’ve found myself quite a bit to do over the past few weeks, but I am excited to be taking a summer class at Pitt. I’m taking Calc based Physics II in a six week session, so you might not hear from me for a bit. If you couldn’t tell from all I’ve involved myself in, I love being busy. I especially love it when my busy schedule is full of meaningful activities, and this summer is no exception. I look forward to updating you when I can!

Stay safe and healthy,

Maya