It seems my somewhat regular newsletter has now taken to being a bi-yearly touching base. Quite mind boggling that another six months has passed since I sat to write. Thankfully, despite challenges, life has been full of things I am grateful for. This fullness has kept me in a bubble that is both demanding and nourishing, and exceptionally distinct from my life pre second baby, and pre Covid.
Even without my clinical work, I am good (too good?!) at keeping busy. In June, I became a Certified Hakomi Therapist, wrapping up a training program I began in September 2018. The summer was filled with gardening and outside play while we stayed close to home. The only time we left the city, we wound up in Emergency at the Cold Lake Hospital with our eight year old needing an appendectomy! Not quite the holiday we had hoped for, but everything went as well as possible all things considered.
As fall began, my husband and I weighed the pros and cons of sending our older son to school in person, or keeping him home for distance learning. We chose the latter given our younger son also needs care. We have been making the most of this unique (and strange) time. My babe has grown into a boisterous toddler and accompanies me as I host ‘Adventure School’ for my older son and niece. We have been fortunate to go on some outings in and around Edmonton, and have also braved trips to Jasper and Panorama! Can I just say, ten days alone in a bachelor suite with three kids - I did it! Plus, I was able to connect with a younger version of myself, who backpacked the world for over six months… I now had a back pack filled with an 18 month old, and two kids in tow, but trust me, it was an adventure and a half!
My husband and I have also undertaken building a new home. I never could have imagined, and greatly underestimated, the level of work involved in such an endeavour. We have been dreaming and scheming, planning and saving for this house build for nearly ten years. It is pretty magical to see the drawings turn into reality! These days, I juggle the kids, their school and house build requirements…thank goodness I have been practicing asking for help the past few years because there are many days that I need it! We are extremely fortunate my cousin takes the lead on this project - without him it would still just be an idea.
Having two unvaccinated kids, a lack of childcare, and all that is on my plate, I will wait to return to the office. I do not want to leave my clients in a lurch if the kids or I get sick, have to isolate, etc. While the possibility exists of moving my sessions online, that is not a realistic option with a toddler at home ;) Things continue to ebb and flow. The possibility of school age vaccines, changes in regulations, or my toddler deciding he would like to regularly nap for hours at a time!??!
I completely get this may not be the update you were hoping for. While I do not have a return to work date, I love my job and will be back eventually. In the meantime, know that I care and am willing to help connect you to other amazing therapists.
In gratitude for your understanding and ongoing connection,
Deepika