Quarantine Life Update – I’m Feeling Better!
Hi guys! Wow – crazy times we’re living in, huh? Los Angeles has had a “safer at home” lockdown for a while now, but my husband and I have been practicing social distancing for some time, and haven’t left our house since March 15th. Like you guys, I’ve had all sorts of emotions come up, and the anxiety, cabin fever, and depression are real.
I came down with the flu (including fever) a week ago, which really scared me. I have thyroid cancer and health issues that cause shortness of breath, so I am afraid the coronavirus (and the overburdened hospitals here in LA) could mean a life or death situation for me. Luckily, I’m feeling MUCH better and I’m on the mend. My husband also caught whatever I had, and he’s sick in bed, but no fever so far. Whew!
We are being very careful. Washing our hands constantly, wiping down or temporarily quarantining any packages or food deliveries that come into the house, and not going anywhere other than short walks around the neighborhood (while avoiding people on the street). We are staying away from friends and family, especially my husband’s elderly parents, who are at increased risk.
When the outbreak first started, I had so much anxiety, that I had to resort to prescription drugs to avoid a panic attack. Since I’ve been sick, the feeling has changed to one of fatigue and depression. Now that I’m on the mend, I finally feel somewhat more normal. I have been wanting to talk with you guys via Instagram stories to see how you’re feeling, and update you on the blog, but until now, I have just been wiped out.
Now that I’m feeling a bit more like myself, I want to start brainstorming ways to keep myself (and you guys) busy. One thing I thought might be fun is to share some DIY beauty recipes from my blog and from fellow beauty bloggers. Not only does this give you something to focus on other than terrifying news and angry people on Facebook, but it can also be something you can do with your kids or other family members. Some of you may be having supply problems and/or money issues, and I thought this might also be helpful for that. I wish I had a DIY recipe for toilet paper, but unfortunately, I can’t help you with that one!
DIY Beauty Recipes to Keep You Busy During Self-Isolation
Let’s start with hand sanitizer. There are a ton of DIY hand sanitizer recipes out there, and some are diluting the alcohol too much. Please check this post out from Michelle of Lab Muffin Beauty Science.
DIY Hand Cream Recipe by Glamorable
DIY Cruelty Free Hair Mask Recipes
Body Balm and Curl Booster by The Vegan Gloss
14 DIY Homemade Lotion and Massage Bar Recipes
DIY Vegan Lip Plumper by The Fabzilla
DIY Vegan Skin Scrub Recipes for Dry Skin
A Girl’s Gotta Spa Coconut Coffee Foot Scrub Recipe
DIY Beauty Serums for All Skin Types
Eucalyptus & Spearmint Foot Mask by The Vintage Modern Wife
Simple Charcoal Face Mask by Phyrra
5 DIY Hair Masks for Shiny Hair
Mix Up Your Own Tinted Foundation by Phyrra
Hope these can help! I would love to hear how you guys are coping with the “new normal.” Please hit me up on social media!
Dear Jen
You are such an inspiration! I appreciate every post and have learned so much from you in my quest to go cruelty free in every aspect of my life. You are truly changing the world in such a positive way. I didn’t know about your cancer and can only imagine how scary it must be for you. Please continue to keep yourself safe. You are blessed to have a wonderful husband. Thank you for all you do. I will keep you in my prayers. God Bless!
You just made my day Susan – thank you so much for your sweet words! We’re doing well over here – trying to stay positive. Please stay safe out there! 🙂