Walking

I am fortunate to live with a good friend. We are the same age, we accept each other as we are, and enjoy each other’s company, maybe because we doaccept each other just the way we are. We are vulnerable to viruses because of our age. Ten days ago we decided to treat each other as if the other had been exposed to COVID-19. We stay six feet away from each other at all times. Twice a day we do a ‘wipe down’ of all common areas: knobs, handles, sinks, faucets, pulls, chair backs, remote controls, light switches, etc. We use separate towels in the kitchen and are forever washing our hands. And we decided that walking would be a great way to both exercise and get out of the house without breaking any suggested social distancing rules or endangering ourselves. We have been walking for over an hour a day, about ten feet apart. We wave and say hello to every person we see. It is a tiny social interaction, but the smiles, waves and short greetings help fill a void even if only in a small way. Each day we challenge ourselves to increase our time and our steps. I know this is great for our bones, an added benefit. Our age has also made us susceptible to bone shrinkage; I have osteopinia. We walk different routes, explore remote neighborhood streets, and marvel at new sights, many of which are old sights I have not noticed because I am usually driving. The air quality, which can be brutal, is greatly improved by diminished traffic and recent rains. We try to put variety in our walks as well. Yesterday we went to a little market nearby. We put on nitrile gloves before going in. She donned a mask. There were only three other customers inside. The number of items on the shelves was a relief and we found some things we needed. It was good to know we aren’t helpless if we need something. Stories of hoarding and empty shelves are anxiety-provoking. As I stood in line at the register, I was mindful to stay six feet behind the customer ahead of me. Here was the problem: I was so so far behind him that other customers stepped in front of me. This will be a ‘new normal’. We’ll all adjust.