Preparing to venture back into normalcy

Happy Wednesday everyone!

We are halfway through another week, and just a few days away from the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. I am feeling a whirlwind of emotions about it. I’m excited that we could be venturing back into normalcy but am nervous and unsure of what the outcome of these lifted measures will actually look like. My feelings probably resemble what so many other people are going through right now. Heck, these past two years have been a wild, wild ride. It’s hard to figure out what stepping into normal even looks like anymore.

All I know is when the mandates are lifted, I will tread cautiously and kindly while maintaining boundaries that are comfortable to me.

This week, I have to admit I have struggled a bit to find the little pieces of positivity we all seem to desperately need right now. Usually, I can easily pick out a few bright spots in my week, but everything has been so heavy. And while I think it is necessary to stay engaged with the world, it can be hard. Those little day-to-day moments — those bright spots — become like medicine. The good thing: They are still there, some weeks they’re just not as blatant and you may just have to look a little harder.

But there is always something good around us.

Last weekend, I donated blood. At the time it felt like nothing more than an errand, but when I actually think about it I feel lucky to be able to donate. It’s such a small thing to do that literally can save and impact people’s lives… I’m not trying to toot my own horn but digging for that perspective not only made me feel happy, but it also made me feel proud.

Daylight savings time is this weekend. We lose an hour of sleep, but we gain more sunshine. I can’t wait.

Have a wonderful week, and be kind to one another.

Shelley Cook, Columnist

GOOD NEWS THIS WEEK

Declan Schroeder writes about Winnipeg musician Vaughan Poyser. The story is a riveting piece not only about Poyser’s 40-year music career, but also about the man and his story behind the incredible music.

Vaughan Poyser at home with his pointer hound Abbie. (Ruth Benneville / Winnipeg Free Press)

The Sunburger is BACK! This week Eva Wasney writes about Wendy Murray, owner of the former Underground Café, who has returned to the Exchange District! The creator of the legendary vegetarian sunburger will be serving those (and other tasty meals) out of the kitchen at the Royal Albert Arms. Read about it here.

Winnipeggers can finally get their sammie cravings satisfied at Wendy Murray’s new café.(Mikaela Mackenzie / Winnipeg Free Press)

Niigaan Sinclair’s column this week was about traditional names — how important they are and why the government needs to amend the Vital Statistics Act to allow Indigenous parents to use traditional names when naming their children. This story is a necessary read. Niigaan shares his knowledge, wisdom and experience is such a thoughtful way in his columns.

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