'In times like these'- Important Information
We are living in extraordinary times, but is important to remember to stay safe, calm, healthy and rooted in reality during these uncertain weeks ahead. The media and social media is a double edged sword; it provides us with news and information that we need, yet it also whips up misinformation and hysteria. I personally have chosen not to look at social media in particular to refrain from the negative charges it emits, and stick solely with one news update for the day from our national state news provider. Once you’re updated, register it, be aware of it, abide by recommended precautions, but don’t dwell on it to the extent where it effects your mental health.
Living on a farm means we’re actually already practicing self-isolation. We’re lucky to have fields to ramble through and get fresh air, and daily farm tasks to keep the mind and body active (at the moment far too active as it’s calving season). I’ve chosen to immerse myself in my surroundings, forage for spring blooms, read more about our native botanicals, their inherent uses and beliefs in Irish traditions and customs, and I’ve also started to plan our farm vegetable garden and fruit orchard. It’s times like these, where the idea of self-sufficiency is catapulted to the forefront of everyones mind.
Focus on positive activities, knowledge, learning or re-learning and staying active. I leave Lyric FM on in the house, so it is filled with calming music, that inspires and makes the noise of worrying leave my mind. I’ve also turned my attention to much needed tasks, such as cleaning out my botanical collections, cleaning out the pantry, organising my studio and little side projects I’ve been meaning to bring to life.
I’ve also chosen to limit my ventures into the ‘real world’. Postal runs will now only be once a week. I picked Thursday as the day, but that could change depending on government measures in the weeks ahead. It is a very tough and challenging time for all small businesses. We all appreciate if you could continue to support us during this time, whatever way you can, be it sharing on your social media outlets, or making a purchase online. If everyone stopped stockpiling huge quantities of toilet rolls and pasta, and instead bought a piece of art to add magic to their homes, a voucher from a local restaurant to use when this passes (and it will), buying a stack of greeting cards to cover all celebrations in the year ahead, commissioning a necklace to mark a new chapter in your life, or purchasing a handmade candle to invigorate your home office with an energising scent. We can all do our bit to help each other.
For all orders, I can write a personalised message to your loved one, and send it directly to their home, so they know you are thinking of them, and are with them in the form of a thoughtful and beautiful little treasure. In doing so, you help a small business remain in business, as we wouldn’t survive this period without your support. A big heartfelt thank you to everyone who has purchased, and is planning on doing so, it means more to me then you can possibly know, as you enable me to continue to keep creating my miniature artworks, and keep Lost Forest alive and well. Stay safe, happy and healthy. - Gillian x
