For the past two weeks it’s just been Daniel and me. And it’s nice to spend time together – to work and read and relax in the same room for hours on end – but almost everyone else left town and you kind of feel like you’re holed up in a room the size of Charlottesville with nothing to do and only your second half to talk to (which may really just be yourself).

Last night we broke the fast from socialization with a potluck dinner. I sat on a couch squished between two people, leaning forward to take in the conversation, and felt grateful – and lucky – to be a small part of such an interesting, dynamic, funny, and thoughtful group. The isolation was worth it for the chance to realize that.

That being said, the past few weeks have helped me think through and intensify my goals:

• I’m eating (a little bit) healthier, eating in more, and saving money.
• I’m taking more walks.
• I’m considering delving back into the world of portrait photography (I’m offering free photo sessions in the Charlottesville area).
• The advertisements I put out for my store are slowly but surely bringing in new customers and I’m staying on top of bookkeeping.
• My fair trade blog venture is bringing me great satisfaction.
• I’m in the process of working with Fair Trade Towns USA to approve the city of Charlottesville for their Fair Trade directory.

How do you work through periods of isolation? How are you achieving your short and long term goals?