We may want to forget as soon as possible that this pandemic ever happened, but one day we will look back on how we got through it. I asked Brian and Leia Cronkrite to share their perspective on the good, the bad, and the weird of living through a pandemic. The siblings agree it poses challenges to their social life, but they also shared some good things that came out of being at home.
1. What's the best thing about being home this past year?
Brian: I got to sleep in, and spend more time doing things I can only do at home.
Leia: I see my family more, and when we have breaks during the school day, I can chat with my mom or dad and share interesting notes about my day, or play games with my brother.
2. What is the most challenging part about being at home most of the time?
Brian: I don’t get to see my friends in person, and there is limited space to pretend play. I get bored not having enough room to have full fun.
Leia: Learning over Zoom makes it hard to ask questions, and sometimes it feels harder to follow along with lessons. Sometimes the internet cuts out and I miss something my teacher says, or the screen will freeze or get blurry. Also, I miss seeing my friends every day.
3. What is the weirdest part about being in a pandemic?
Brian: The masks, and staying away from other people. It's boring.
Leia: Wearing a mask everywhere is weird. It can feel uncomfortable, and it’s harder to talk to people because it’s difficult to hear what they’re saying.
4. What are you looking forward to when the pandemic is over?
Brian: No more itchy masks, and I want to see my friends more.
Leia: I’m looking forward to going back to in-person school, dance, and karate.