What have Open Age members been up to?

Creativity In Lockdown by Pandora Varraklion (Open Age Member)

In the last few weeks, I have had to move to a new flat because of a burst pipe.   I have been placed in temporary accommodation, not far from my flat, and have been coping well and adjusting to the ongoing situation.

I am a natural nature lover, and have always enjoyed watching the various different wildlife, that congregate outside my front door. One of my pastimes, before the lockdown was to feed the hungry squirrels with nuts and observe them, I even named them.  I have been able to continue to pursue my love of nature, even in a small way. For short periods of time, when I can get out and go for a walk.

Another thing that I have been doing in the lockdown is to collect magazines, puzzle books and other reading materials, to pass onto charities. For example the Winter Night Shelters for the homeless, (when they reopen), in order to give rough sleepers something to read/occupy their time.

I am also doing the same thing, collecting magazines and puzzles for the foodbank. Which they put in some of their boxes. I am trying to do my bit, and look on the bright side of life. It is good to be positive and keep positive, and helping others keeps me positive.

In this time, The Advocacy Project asked me to write a poem about lockdown, which will be published in their magazine, this has given me something to think about and helped me express myself in a creative way, it has been good to express my feelings about lockdown and have an audience to share it with.

My Girl Guide training has come in really handy also. I have been making DIY face masks for myself to wear out which I continue to do. Another past time is watching old film classics, and wrestling; I loved watching wrestling in the 60s and still enjoy it now. I believe that I am using my time in a profitable way and am continuing to keeping busy and positive.