Staying at home can be frustrating if you’re not used to it, especially if it’s just one of many challenges you’re facing during the COVID-19 situation. However, following the City and County “Stay Home – Stay Safe” orders is the best defense we have against this virus. The actions we take today will help protect the health of our community and put us on the road to recovery. In the meantime, here are a few things you can do while you’re staying home and staying safe.
Complete the census. This crucial count only comes around once every 10 years, and your response will help our city secure federal funding and representation. You can respond online at my2020census.gov, by phone at 844-330-2020 or by completing and returning the form that you received in the mail. (The bureau will continue mailing out paper questionnaires this week).
Read a book. A good story can provide a welcome escape during these difficult times. If you’ve read through all your favorites, don’t worry; the Victoria Public Library is offering drive-thru pickup of materials, or you can check out their extensive digital collection at victoriapubliclibrary.org. Call 361-485-3301 for more information or to schedule a pickup.
Participate in a library event. The Victoria Public Library streams its children’s storytime events at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays on Facebook, and at 2 p.m. Thursdays you can take part in a craft project using materials that can easily be found at home. Other programs are being conducted virtually as well; check the library’s Facebook page for details.
Go on a bear hunt. The teddy bears popping up in the windows of some neighborhoods are proof that we can stick together while staying apart. Displaying the stuffed animals gives families with young children something fun to look for while out for a walk or drive. Consider reaching out to your neighborhood association to find out what safe activities are being planned and how you can get involved.
Get some yard work done. The City is currently waiving overage fees for pickup of brush and bulky items, and since you’re spending more time at home anyway, there’s never been a better time to catch up on much-needed yard work. Call 361-485-3230 to schedule a pickup.
Go for a walk or jog. Exercise is good for your physical and mental health, and even with the current orders in place, you can still leave your home for some exercise and fresh air. Simply maintain a distance of six feet from the people around you and don’t go out in a large group.
Stay connected with family and loved ones. Technology offers us a variety of ways to stay connected even while we’re practicing physical distancing. Give a call to someone you haven’t seen in a while, reach out to them on social media or set up a video chat.
Spend time with your kids. If you have kids who are home from school, take this opportunity to spend some quality time with them, whether you’re participating in one of the family-oriented activities listed above or coming up with one of your own. Eventually they’ll return to school and things will go back to normal; until then, try to make the most of your time together.
For more ways to have fun during the COVID-19 situation, visit the Explore Victoria Texas Facebook page.