Beth Thomas on her makeshift ‘dragon boat’.
Parkes has been a great place to be while getting through this unusual period.
And being at home has been very pleasant for my husband and I. We managed to remain married and only almost had one argument.
We’ve done a lot of gardening and cooking and Bill has tackled many odd jobs. I began to take my French lessons more seriously and Liz Matthews, my French teacher, is delighted that I’m finally tackling French grammar with some gusto.
I’ve dusted off the old guitar, and finally found the time to get stuck into writing my second historical fiction novel.
Apart from missing the family and the dragon boat team, I have quite enjoyed having no commitments, no responsibilities and no diary to keep check on. I am very thankful for online technology to keep in touch with my kids and grandkids.
I have kept reasonably fit with a makeshift ‘dragon boat’ set up in the pool for three paddling sessions a week, plus I do Pilates, my backyard gym and fitball exercises.
Two things that really stand out for me over this time are Easter and ANZAC, being times when people usually come together. I missed having the family for Easter and it was strange to attend the Good Friday service on television lounged back in my comfy recliner. We attended the Anzac dawn service from our front gate, and it was quite poignant to hear the bugles and bagpipes resounding over Parkes – before a flock of pink galahs wheeled through the dawn sky right on Reveille. It gave us a feeling of connection with the whole community.
I do appreciate that this time of isolation has not been so easy for many and I feel blessed that my time has been so fulfilling.
By Beth Thomas