I wrote a blog a month or so ago titled ‘groundhog day’. But I didn’t end up publishing it. I wonder how you’ve been coping in lockdown? Have you experienced Groundhog Day type days? What has helped you through those days?

For me it has been an interesting few months. Re-connecting (if virtually) with friends and family, revelling in seeing the spring and then the summer unfurl, rediscovering my favourite chocolates and snacks and being able to use an oven to cook!! But amongst this have been the groundhog days, a perpetual waiting, in the unknown, as plans constantly change.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Throughout this time I’ve revisited quite a few times, these bible verses from Romans 8:15-17:

‘This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children…’

Romans 8:15-17

Amidst this uncertain time, finding purpose, hope and courage has been and continues to be tough at times, but for me, by taking on this God-given ‘adventurously expectant’ outlook it helps reshape my viewpoint. Having recently rewatched the hobbit this scene captures some of the emotions too…

I wonder where you are finding your hope and courage at the moment?

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Research wise – these last four months have seen me working from home (with all the added complications and privileges that entails) but it has been a really useful time of consolidating data and starting to shape my PhD chapters and read and write a bit more. Returning occasionally to the nest camera footage to remember what the stormies look and sound like, amongst other data!

• 

• 

• 

As the lockdown (at least in the UK) is somewhat lifting, there sparks of new hope but amidst the continued uncertainty, I remain ‘adventurously expectant’ in the waiting, however the next few months might unfold.

Until next time, stay safe!

Hannah 🙂