I’m Thankful For . . .

Nothing about this is easy. Like the recent viral parody letter that F. Scott Fitzgerald didn’t write during the 1918 flu outbreak states, “I weep for the damned eventualities this future brings.”

But as we self-isolate we have to highlight the positive and what simply makes us happy. As we all find ourselves with more time to reflect, these are some of the things that I’m thankful for, that are bringing me joy, distracting me when needed, and keeping my hopes high. (In no particular order.)

All of the healthcare heroes working the front lines at our hospitals. They are true heroes and need to be thanked every day.

The three salutes to the sun I do every morning before changing into my daytime pajamas.

Jackie Schimmel’s “The Bitch Bible” podcast.

All of the extra time to spend with family that I wouldn’t normally have.

“The Tiger King” on Netflix. Because as the meme says, I’m either talking about Tiger King or coronavirus right now. There is nothing else.

All of the Lidia Bastianich dried pasta, facial masks, and hand sanitizers I received in gift bags last summer.

The Clamshell Foundation and East End Cares for starting the “$5 For Food” campaign. If you have $5, please donate to help feed our community.

Clementine, our Cocker Spaniel, a Southampton Animal Shelter rescue, who is beyond excited to have us home all day.

Having access to a bike and the beach, especially a beach with no other humans.

That I still “go to” work every day as an essential employee, even if it’s from my own living room.

Friday Zoom wine nights with the girls.

Every New Yorker cheering out their windows for our first responders. I started crying when I first saw these videos. New Yorkers are strong and resilient and we will get through this.

The deck of cards I bought on our honeymoon in St. Barth’s with which we’ve played many, many hands of gin rummy. They’re French, fancy, and remind me of a wonderful time.

Governor (or should we say President?) Andrew Cuomo for his leadership.

Balsam Farms and Wölffer Estate for door-to-door delivery this week.

Knowing that “The Real Housewives of New York” season 12 is starting on Thursday, April 2.

Virtual programming, put together by our cultural centers like Guild Hall, The Parrish Art Museum, and Southampton Arts Center. Virtual concerts by Bay Street. HamptonsFilm Friday Flashback movie series.

Elton John, for hosting the iHeart Living Room Concert for America on Sunday night to benefit Feeding America.

Daily Harvest, for weekly food deliveries that are filled with antioxidants. Let’s keep our immune systems strong! (And keep me from learning how to cook.)

@tanksgoodnews on Instagram, because we could all use a little good news these days.

jessica@indyeastend.com
@hamptondaze