Finding My New Normal

It's important to remember that we all have magic inside us.- J.K. Rowling

A lot has happened since I last wrote. Work is going really well and I'm really enjoying the type of work. I've already done several night shifts at the home, as that's what my role now is within the company. It's taken some adjusting to the new routine and the new rhythm of life now that I'm working nights. Half of the night is taken up by looking after the needs of those in the home and the rest of the night is waiting for the call buttons to go off, to let us know that someone needs help, or has gotten out of bed. It's really quiet and, like most people, that's when I tend to struggle with staying awake. So that's when I to hit the coffee pretty hard. I try to track my caffeine and water intake on a daily basis and I've had as many as five cups of coffee in the space of a shift, sometimes more. I've adjusted faster than I thought I would and so far I'm looking forwards to my next shift on Wednesday evening. I love being able to learn from those who I'm working with and learn to look after people. It has also given me a lot to think about, in regards to what will happen in the future.

Andy's doing well. He's been furloughed from work, due to the COVID 19 lockdown. So we've been together for about two months or so. Andy being at home has really helped my mental wellbeing during the lockdown. It's nice not to be alone. He's been there to talk to and spend time with. You may have heard the saying that the lockdown has strengthened or broken relationships, because you're with your other half, at home for months and months. Andy and I have grown a lot closer during the lockdown and I'd like to think that our relationship has gotten stronger during the last few months. I love being my own, but I don't think I would have coped with being on my own for the duration. Andy's will be returning to work on Thursday. Once he returns to work, I'll likely be asking for overtime from work, to increase our income. That's the nice thing about working four twelve-hour shifts a week (so I only work four days a week), so I can always ask to do an extra shift or two a week, though I'm gonna have a chat with the team at work, to see if they need me to do any extra shifts, before deciding to let them know that I'm looking to pick up as many extra shifts possible (without running any risks to my mental health). The previous times I've done night shifts I've ended up struggling mentally. I need to make sure that I put my mental health and myself first. If I'm doing well within myself, then I'm able to do my job and be a good wife to Andy.

Until next time.